Benefits of Window Tinting

Aside from contributing an extra element of décor, home window tinting, when it’s installed, acts as a barrier between your home and unwanted elements. The significant UV absorption afforded by window films works to preserve the longevity of cherished valuables. (think about your leather sofa). That’s before mentioning your own skin. Before impacting what you pay for energy, it may work to protect valuables as well as your skin’s health.

What’s more, is that window tinting works effectively to shield your home against incoming thermal heat. When that happens, it allows for decreased air conditioning usage. Unsurprisingly, homeowners can expect to pay decreased energy bills when less air conditioning is used. Some experts assert that home tinting is capable of paying for itself in as little as one year.

What’s most remarkable about that is that tinting may be among an extremely short list of any home decoration project that actually lends to cost efficiency. Often times, window tinting can be used to compliment the home’s exterior paint. During other instances, a certain shade may blend terrifically with interior décor.

Reducing Glare Beautifully

One common misconception about window tinting is that it is only available in dark colors (the same way it is on most cars). However, with residential tinting, the options are considerably wider. For a more subtle tone, you may wish to consider an aquamarine hue. Many are surprised how subtly it blends with all sorts of designs. If your home already has a lot of decoration, you may wish to consider a subtle, complimentary tone. For those looking to add some pizzazz, window tinting affords the perfect median for that as well.

There’s another component to residential tinting that you may have also overlooked: Glare reduction. While a non-issue for some, if your windows face directly into the morning or afternoon sun, you may be full well familiar with the nuisance if causes. Also consider this: with the reduced glare inside your home (during some hours), perhaps the other elements of your home design will be better reflected. When you consider that this is a measure that is capable of saving homeowners significantly on energy costs, it is actually quite remarkable.

Green Advantages

Not only does residential tinting save homeowners on expenses, it effectively reduces emissions as well. It can be said that tinting is a practice from which homeowners and the Planet benefit alike. Imagine the environmental efficiency heralded in by your own financial efficiency?

So effective is window tinting in eco-sustainability that it is not uncommon for governments to grant tax benefits for its implementation. In the USA, for one, the IRS allows up to a 10% tax deduction on material costs to a maximum of $500. More about this can be found through the IRS. It is also advisable to check with your state and local governments to see if there additional incentives they offer.

Before Installing Window Tinting

If considering a home tinting project, be sure to take in several film previews before proceeding to installation; it could make for a much more pleasurable experience. Further, be sure to check into the degree of heat protection the film offers: This could make a substantial difference in the type of heat protection you will actually receive. Doing a moderate amount of research before the project can be the difference in making a satisfying high-value purchase. If your home has large, sun-facing windows, window tinting may be the type of cost reduction you were looking for.

Jared Diamond is a content contributor about window tint topics for Detail Wiz Auto Services. On top of enjoying automotive restoration projects, he enjoys bringing up environmental awareness.

Warm-Water Heating Systems: A Few Essential Details

It is important to know that the warm-water heating systems come along with three main components that include a manifold, tubing, and thermostat, which starts the system when the temperature goes below a certain value. Most modern systems come along with advanced thermostatic and manifold controls, which allow homeowners to bring an excellent heating package into their homes.

• The Manifold and Its Characteristics: The manifold is a very important component that controls the temperature in every zone of the house. This component is made of some high quality materials, which are very reliable and durable. Additionally, this component is pre-assembled in the factory so that it effectively saves cost and time with the installation process. In order to achieve maximum performance, this component comes along with separate flow meters for each zone, which are able to balance the entire underfloor heating system in order to deliver the best possible outcomes. The homeowner can connect the manifold directly to a boiler or to any wood-burning stoves, geothermal or solar systems. Therefore, the manifold shows a truly impressive versatility.

• Tubing -A Few Important Considerations: It is essential to know that tubing shows a multi-layer material, which comes along with a thick diameter. This thing allows this system to provide heat for a long time, even after the homeowner turns everything off. Warm-water system’s tubing is vey strong, being able to withstand high temperatures, which may even reach 95 degrees Celsius. Additionally, the entire system is able to withstand high pressures of 10 bars for many years. Thanks to a new technology, the tubes come with no joints. This thing prevents any leaks from occurring.

• The Importance of Thermostats: Most warm-water systems come along with digital thermostats, which help homeowners to control their heating systems very easily. The thermostat is a great addition to any heating system especially because it reduces the unnecessary extra costs while ensuring a great level of comfort. The thermostats allow users to set up a specific time and temperature level, so that the system functions as per the set requirements.

Electric Heating Systems: Are They Better Than the Warm-Water Systems?

These days, many producers offer a variety of electric heating systems, which are suitable for under laminate, vinyl, wood, carpet, and tile flooring. It is important to know that prior to installing this type of system, you must check your type of insulation, construction characteristics, and many other aspects that might influence the outcomes that you can get from running an electric heating system. Based on the construction characteristics of your own living space, the specialists will recommend a specific type of electric heating system. Thus, in order to make a documented choice, you have to hire a specialist who can analyze various technical aspects and advise you with regard to the best underfloor heating system for your home.

Similar to the warm-water heating systems, the electric ones also come with digital thermostats, which allow end users to keep the running costs down while getting the best out of these systems. However, it is important to know that unlike the warm-water heating systems, the electric ones cannot be installed in any areas. Additionally, while the warm-water heating systems allow homeowners to install them by themselves, the electric ones require the services of professionals. In conclusion, you can easily observe that the electric underfloor heating systems are at most as good as the warm-water heating solutions.

Although people can observe some differences with regard to the costs of running these two types of systems, both alternatives show a higher efficiency when compared to the traditional heating solutions. The reason for this is that underfloor heating comes along with a higher efficiency, being able to heat up a room from the bottom to top. Thus, the cold air related issues are completely eliminated. This thing indicates the fact that the warm-water and electric underfloor heating systems are truly advantageous, presenting minimal variations in units and respective, in their efficiency.

A Few Essentials That You Must Comprehend about LED Lighting

Undoubtedly, the current LED lighting technologies allow people to complement their living spaces with some truly innovative products, which deliver some great lighting solutions that can help different individuals to stay within their budgets. And obvsiously, this statement does not only reffer to the investment budget but also to the one that relates to future energy bills. The reason for this is that the available LED solutions seem to be more economical than many other lighting altwernatives that you are able to find these days.

Different specialists recommend various LED lighting options for homes and businesses. The reason for this is that these solutions come along with specific characteristics, such as:

• Versatility: Usually, the modern LED lighting solutions allow people to complement their living spaces, including homes and offices, with suitable lighting sources by simply adding or reducing the number of light fixtures.

• Low Energy Consumption: LED lighting relates to low energy consumption, helping people to save on costs and environment. Therefore, the LED technologies go far beyond our wallets. This thing indirectly means that by simply opting for LED technologies, you will not only reduce your energy bill but also your carbon footprint.

• High Quality: Most LED lighting solutions deliver some truly high quality products, which can help you to avoid the hassle of changing bulbs every two months. The reason for this is that the good quality materials that deliver these lighting solutions guarantee long-term functionality, which can easily gather a few years.

• Originality: These days, the LED lighting solutions can help you to respect your architectural setting. This thing indirectly means that these technologies deliver numerous lighting options, which are suitable for complementing different settings.

• Efficiency: By simply ensuring the highest possible level of lumens per watt, these lighting solutions are suitable for different settings, from particular homes to large enterprises. This thing indirectly means that the LED technologies are able to complement offices, data centers, shops, airports, and even museums.

By simply analyzing the aforementioned points, everyone can easily understand that the current LED technologies are able to deliver tomorrow’s lighting. Additionally, the benefits that come along with these technologies can definitely convince people to consider the LED lighting solutions as some truly great alternatives to any conventional light sources.

Learn the Benefits of the LED Lighting Technologies

The specialists underline a series of essential benefits that the LED lighting technologies bring along. Thus, the most important benefits that you can get by opting for LED lighting include:

• Significant savings with regard to electricity consumption

• Short return on investments

• Material and carbon emission reduction

• Long life cycle, which may reach seventeen years with an average use of 8 hours a day

• Low maintenance costs

• Silent operation with no-power correction

• New implementations with reduced wiring and distribution boards

As you are able to see, the modern LED technologies deliver a lot of benefits these days. This thing indirectly means that they are about to become the most convenient lighting solutions. Additionally, it is essential to know that the producing companies provide a series of LED lighting alternatives, such as LED fluorescent tubes, LED high bay, LED dimmable, LED light panels, LED flood lights, LED street lights, LED par lights, and many others. Therefore, by simply choosing specific light alternatives from good LED suppliers, you can benefit from some truly great advantages.

Obviously, the most important advantage that relates to the LED technologies is the fact that you can get some truly efficient lighting solutions for numerous applications. Additionally, these technologies come along with a series of advancements, such as portable solar arrays, battery packs, control system integration, vibration and shock resistance, fast “on-time,” great color resolution, no shock hazards, and many others. Thus, as you can easily see, the LED technologies are the future of viable lighting alternatives.

A whole house evaluation can identify any problem areas which can make your home more comfortable and save you more energy in the long run. But what does it consist of exactly? And is it a worthwhile investment? This post is designed to answer these very questions.

What’s Involved in an Evaluation?

As you would expect from the name, a whole house evaluation is comprehensive look at the HVAC system in your home on a number of fronts. A thorough whole house evaluation will consist of most or all of the following components:

• Inspecting equipment, such as furnace, ducts and air conditioners for mechanical or other problems.
• Examining insulation. The EPA has estimated that proper insulation can account for a savings of up to 10% on home energy costs.
• Load calculation, or calculating the amount of heat gained and lost in the home, can identify systems that have lost efficiency or are the wrong size and may need to be replaced.
• Measuring air flow out from air conditioning ducts around the home to see if they are optimally arranged and configured.
• Testing for improper ventilation – wither too much or too little air flow in and out of the home – can help improve air quality and overall comfort.

Should You Get an Evaluation?

It is possible you may not need to have your HVAC system evaluated. If it is a new, properly sized, properly installed system, then everything may be fine. However, it is estimated that up to half of all HVAC systems are the wrong size for the home in which they are installed, and the EPA reportsthat errors in installation can reduce a system’s efficiency by as much as 30%. To determine whether you may need an evaluation, ask yourself the following questions:

• Is my home often too warm or too cold?
• Do my utility bills seem extraordinarily high?
• Is the air in my home too humid or too dry?

If the answer to any of these questions is “yes,” or if you or your family members have been experiencing respiratory problems, a whole house evaluation may help.

What Should I Do Before an Evaluation?

Before your house evaluation there are a few things you should do to make sure that you are fully prepared:

• If you have a problems like uneven heating or drafty rooms, make a list so you can be sure to have those concerns addressed.
• You should also see if you can find copies of your energy bills. This will help determine exactly how much energy you are using compared to more efficient houses.
• Be prepared to answer some relevant questions such as your average thermostat setting and the hours people are home. This is a good way to get a jump start on your home evaluation; you might find easy ways to save energy just by examining your behavior.

Saving energy is good for the environment and your wallet; a whole house evaluation might be a good investment to make this holiday season.

Pat writes for the HVAC industry, including Tampa air conditioning and heating contractor Air National, specializing DIY and energy saving HVAC tips.

The Graveyard Solar Power Plant

In Santa Coloma de Gramenet, near Barcelona, Spain, the people decided to put the local cemetery to use. Solar panels are mounted on top of mausoleums and graves. The nearly 462 panels provide the yearly needs of 60 homes. They do not block those paying their respects.

Solar Amish

They might not have cars, or zippers on their pants, but many Amish in Pennsylvania are adopting solar panels for power generation. That seems to be a contradiction to their rejection of “all things modern,” but their lifestyle of self-sufficiency seems to walk hand in hand with it. They’re the largest purchasers of solar panels in the state.

Solar Backpacks

When hiking, don’t let a dead cell battery stop you from calling for help. The solar panels will charge cell phones and other electronic gadgets, so you’ll always have tunes, and the ability to call anyone. Lay the pack in the sun while you get a drink of water in the shade, charge your phone or favorite tunes gadget, and hit the trail again.

Catamarans

The next time you go to the marina, check out how many catamarans have solar panels on their multi-hulls. These panels provide most, if not all the needs of the passengers and the crew. Just imagine, enjoying your vacation by sailing on a catamaran and producing all the power you need without docking once.

Sanyo’s Solar Ark

Looking like a giant car spoiler, this building in the Gifu Prefecture, in the geographical center of Japan, Sanyo’s solar ark produces power. Hundreds of offices are inside the building. This 315 meter (1,033.46 feet) long, 37 meters (121.391 feet) tall building is covered with over 5,000 solar panels and generates over 500,000 KWh of electricity.

Solar panels will continue to emerge throughout our environment in the most unusual places. Tapping into the virtually unused real estate of cemeteries is both uncomfortable and sensible. The panels don’t disturb the residents or those paying their respects. They quietly provide needed power without noise, fumes or mess.

Imagine solar panels on shopping carts, which could power cell phones, on mailboxes plugged into a device that calls the recipient and lets them know they have mail, solar panels on the dog house (Fido can prove useful) and other novel places. Stop signs could have solar panels that charge batteries and light up at night, preventing accidents.

David Spader looks at savings accounts over at SavingsAccount.Org.

Many people receive recommendations about home inspectors from friends, family members, and real estate professionals, while others use consumer websites like Angie’s List, Yelp, Merchant Circle, Kudzu, and Google Local to find the right home inspector.

Regardless of how you find your home inspector, you must be sure to vet them properly before you give them the task of

Photo by Hammer and Hand

inspecting your home. Here are some important qualifications to look for once you have found someone to consider.

1. Formal education and training. While many states require home inspectors to have a bachelors degree in a related field, not all states have this requirement. Colorado home inspectors, for example, do not need any sort of training whatsoever. Literally anyone can hang a shingle and call themselves a home inspector. Therefore, before you hire an inspector, you are entitled to request a resume from them that describes their education and training. If they don’t have a degree in Engineering – or some specific home inspection training – you may want to keep looking.

2. Experience. Although experienced home inspectors can be slightly more expensive in some cases, they are usually worth price. New home inspectors that have only been working for a few years may have the formal education, but not the experience that really solidifies their knowledge. Try to find a home inspector that has 10 or more years of experience in the field. They will have a better idea of what to really look for, not to mention the fact that bad inspectors don’t tend to stay in business over the long haul.

3. License and insurance. Depending on the state, home inspectors may or may not need to be licensed. In states that require licensing, the inspector should be able to demonstrate that their license is current. Always check this and never take their word for it because there are some unscrupulous home inspectors that operate without the proper licenses.

Also, just as important, make sure your home inspector is insured. Insurance is a sign of a company that takes their business seriously – fly by night inspectors are much less likely to invest in insurance coverage.

4. Price. Never select a home inspector just because they are cheap. Instead, look at the entire package and consider their experience, credentials, and referrals before you hire them. Most of the time you will have to pay a little bit more to get an experienced home inspector, but they are usually well worth the cost because they can really pay off in the end. Think about it this way – paying an extra $200 for a home inspection represents one tenth of one percent of the cost of a $200,000 home. It’s a small price to pay when you’re making such a major investment.

5. Detailed reports. Any respectable home inspector will provide you with a detailed written report that outlines all of the maintenance and repair issues with the home. It should not be a simple checklist sheet (a checklist is only part of an inspection) – you should be able to receive a complete overview of the house just by reading the inspector’s report.

Finding the right home inspector can be difficult at times, but it is certainly worthwhile. A conscientious inspector can literally put money into your pocket – don’t cut corners by hiring the cheapest inspector you can find.

Author Jason Lancaster works with Home Inspection Engineers, Inc., a Denver-area home inspection service that has been in business since 1965.

Keeping your energy costs low takes more than just running around your house and turning off the lights every time someone leaves a room. Here are some other things you can do to keep your energy bills at a minimum.

Install a Programmable Thermostat

How many times have you left your central air or your furnace running all day while you are at work so your home can be just right when you open the front door? It is a good feeling to walk in from a hard day at work and instantly be comfortable, but it’s a bad feeling once you get your energy bill at the end of the month. 

Instead of paying to heat and cool your home for 10 or more hours each day when nobody is in it, install a programmable thermostat. You can program it to turn your furnace or central air on about a half hour before you typically get home from work which will give it enough time to bring your home to the perfect temperature before you walk in the door without wasting all that energy while you are away. You can save between 20 and 30 percent on your monthly bill with this simple and affordable feature.

Dry Your Clothes Outside

Dryers are nice when you are in a hurry, but have you ever experienced the fresh scent of your clothes after letting them dry on a line outside? Not only do your clothes smell spring fresh after an afternoon in the open breeze, but you will save a good chunk of money each month by minimizing the use of your dryer.

Purchase Energy Star Products

Your large appliances are sucking up the energy like a sponge and adding to your electricity bill every month. The ones you don’t typically think about are the ones that are the worst culprits, such as your refrigerator and washing machine.

Did you know your refrigerator accounts for about 10 percent of your entire energy bill? Many utility companies are offering rebates to customers when they replace their energy guzzlers for Energy Star appliances, which can save you money instantly and in the end. Look online for a full list of Energy Star products that you can buy to replace your old and energy-sucking appliances.

Install Ceiling Fans

Many people think they can just turn on their air conditioner and that is all they need to do to cool off their home on those hot summer days. However, did you know running your ceiling fan could cool your house off efficiently, too?

Ceiling fans help get the air moving around your home, which makes it feel much cooler. This lets you set your thermostat a few degrees higher while still feeling the cool air hit you in the face. As a result, you save money on your monthly energy bills without suffering through the sweat.

Jessy is an eco-friendly and green blogger for Square Deal, the top source of Snapfish coupon codes (no fees, no registration required).

Image: Suat Eman / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

as planned, and the degree of separation between the designer and builder becomes a problem.

It is sometimes not possible to translate the architect’s vision to actual bricks and mortar and still stay within the budget. It falls to the client to go back to the architect and have him make the changes to the overall plan. There is no guarantee that the changes will be what are needed. The design-build contracting method corrects this inefficiency.

The design-build process incorporates both the design and the build phases under one roof. Design-build contractors employ architects and builders. This streamlines the process. It is no longer the client’s responsibility to act as intermediary between an architect and builder. The builder simply walks down the hall and brings any issues directly to the architect. This level of interaction allows problems to be spotted before they cause work to grind to halt. This can lead to savings in cost of construction that are passed on to the client. If a builder realizes that a certain type of material not used in the original plan can be found at a discount, he can confer directly with architect about possibly altering the plans to include this material.

There are many benefits to choosing a design-build contractor.

Single Point of Contact

In the design-build method, the client is actually the client. He is not a go-between. They deal directly with the contractor, and that is it. This method removes a tremendous amount of stress from the entire process.

Workable and Accurate Budget

When the builder and the architect work together, it is much easier to stay within the proscribed budget. Communication

Photo by FrontDoor

Fast Response to Changes

Work can slow to a halt if changes to the overall plan and budget are necessary. In the design-build method, these potential issues are often spotted before they become a problem. Needed changes are made before progress can be negatively affected.

Speed of Construction

This method is, quite frankly, faster. An entire phase — the bid phase between designing and building — of the traditional method is eliminated. In addition, construction can begin before the design process is even complete.

Quality Control

When one firm handles the entire process, egos are left at the door. The entire focus is on quality for the client.

The design-build process is appropriate for construction projects of all sizes. It can be effectively utilized for a project as small as adding a sun room onto a home or as massive as erecting a large industrial complex. Incorporating the entire process under one umbrella improves efficiency and reduces the overall cost of the project.

This article’s author is Holly Adams, who writes for Coupon Croc. Building and furnishing your home on a budget? Save when you shop with John Lewis discounts on everything including: household appliances, electronics, decor and more.

You need a kitchen that you love spending time in, where you have great working appliances, like a great Westinghouse fridge, and it is comfortable, cozy and suits your lifestyle. When doing any renovations, however, consider how it affects your home insurance and whether you need to have it updated.

Bench or Counter Space

Every kitchen needs plenty of bench or counter space so you have lots of room to prepare meals and room for your family and friends to come together. It is usually the kitchen where guests sit and enjoy a cup of coffee during the day if they pop in for a visit and where the family will congregate in the evenings to share the events of their day. Having enough bench space where you can lay out all your platters when entertaining is also convenient and it is nice to have the room for the kids to either do their homework at the bench or your partner to sit and read the paper while you are cooking the evening meal.

Energy Efficient Appliances

If you are renovating your kitchen you might want to consider buying new appliances. Choose those that have a higher energy saving rating and you will help make your kitchen more environmentally friendly. White goods will have a sticker on them with a star rating which will tell you how energy efficient they are. The more stars the better it is, so don’t forget to check out the sticker before you buy.

Storage

You need a kitchen with plenty of storage space. Have special drawers fitted that will comfortably hold your pots and pans, your plastic containers and if you have the space put in a walk in pantry. You can be clever with your storage systems and create a lot of extra space.

Functionality

Most importantly you need your kitchen to be functional. Have it set up so that the stove, the bench and the fridge are creating a triangle shape between where they are located in the kitchen. This will mean that you can easily walk from one area to the other and makes it quicker and easier when preparing meals.

Lighting

Make your kitchen lighter by putting in bigger windows or install a skylight above the kitchen area. You won’t have to rely on your electric light during the day, which will save electricity, but it will make your kitchen feel more open and pleasant to be in.

Color

A lighter wall color will make your kitchen seem more open and spacious. Lighter shades can also suit a more modern kitchen, although having a lot of black will create a really modern looking kitchen. If you have a period home you might want to choose something like a cheerful yellow or go for a soft blue.

Furniture

Buy furniture to suit the style of kitchen you have designed. Consider buying comfortable as well as practical furniture.

Budget

When renovating work out your budget beforehand and try to stick to it. It can be very easy to get carried away and go way above budget. If you stray a little above it shouldn’t matter too much. Make allowances for things costing a little more than you expect or any unforeseen problems.

Function

All spaces serve a purpose. For example, the purpose of the home office is to provide a place to do work. Good design will facilitate your ability to do work, making the room truly functional. When designing, consider the function of a space before all other things. Even though you may not spend a significant amount of time in a space, a hallway for instance, the function of the hallway is to transition you from one room to the next. Good design will make the transition smooth by eliminating any obstacles in the path. This isn’t to say that everything must serve a function, just that anything ornamental should not interfere with the functionality of a space. Remember the principle of any design, “form follows function.”

Environment

Along with function, environment is an important consideration in good design. The environment of a space refers to its physical surroundings as well as the individuals inhabiting it. Bearing in mind the environment when designing is often second nature, as most are fully aware of their surroundings. If you live in a hot, dry climate you would probably not install thick carpeted floors. Natural stone or ceramic floors are a more practical choice for the environment because they stay cool and are easily swept of sand and dust. Good design will also support the people within the environment. For example, accommodate the special need of an individual using a wheelchair with wide hallways, and accessible light switch locations.

Space

Take a look at an empty room. What are the dimensions like? Is it irregularly shaped? Is there an established focal point, like a fireplace or a bay window? Good design will always minimize the awkwardness in spaces, make small rooms seem larger, and highlight or create the focal point of a room. Awkward features like sloped ceilings can be played down by keeping the paint color of the ceiling the same as the walls. This opens up the space, making it feel less uncomfortable. Make small rooms seem larger by pulling furniture out from against the walls, it seems counterintuitive but doing this creates depth in the room. Good design will emphasize the best features of the room by balancing the space.

Style

Personality factors heavily into the design of a space. Think about your defining characteristics. If you’re somebody who is creative, soulful and likes to express themselves, do so with your design. Modern style probably isn’t going to make you feel comfortable in its stark design and streamlined features. You will feel much more at ease in a space that inspires creativity with a mix of different textiles, art, and one-of-a-kind pieces. Always design for yourself. Trends will come and go, but they don’t really matter when your space makes you happy. Good design should be a reflection of the self.

Color

Color can make or break a design, and choosing a color palette out of thin air is extremely difficult. It’s a good idea to borrow a palette from a painting, clothing, landscape, or even album artwork. Make sure you choose a palette based on the colors of the work and how the colors makes you feel, not the work itself or any meaning you attach to it. Think about how the color will work in the space, does it make sense? Although you may love the vibrant colors of Warhol’s Marilyn diptych, do you want to wake up and make toast each morning in a bright fuchsia kitchen? Probably not. But there are ways to use those bold colors through accessories and art on a more neutral backdrop that can give you the vibrancy you love. Another option is to choose a color scheme using the color wheel. Sticking to tried and true combinations is a foolproof way to achieve good design.

Texture

An array of textures gives a space visual interest. Good design brings heaps of different textures into a room. Imagine a room with nothing in it. It’s very boring there. Now imagine a room with brick walls, distressed wood floors, and a soft, wooly couch. Texturally it is much more interesting. Texture not only comes from what you feel, but also what you see. Visually, it creates depth in a room. Start with the floor and walls. These are the largest surfaces that display texture. Window treatments, furniture, and accents are the channels in which you can bring a variety of textures to a space. Even the smallest objects bring texture, a cashmere throw on the sofa, or the impasto painting on the wall. Texture is the easiest element to work with because it is literally all around.

Written by Erie Construction. Check out Erie Construction on Twitter for home improvement updates.

1. Check Your Heating

This is the most important thing to do before winter is in full swing. Once the cold hits you’ll be using your HVAC in full

Photo by Ardyiii

force. Ask around for the best heating repair Indianapolis has and find a professional to do a full service check. Have the representative inspect your furnace before you turn it on for the first time. The technician should check for carbon monoxide, clean filters, a clean fan/motor and inspect the gas piping and blower operation. Have your heating ducts inspected while they’re there. A lot of money could be leaking out of your pocket with even the smallest escapes in your ducts. The heating repair representative can check for any leaks and seal them properly.

2. Trim Your Trees

Tree branches are ice magnets here in Indianapolis, the more limbs a tree has, the more snow and ice can accumulate on those branches. It is prudent to completely chop off large limbs that hang over your roof, windows or driveway. Really, trimming any branches will help and one really can’t be too careful about this. Once the snow starts coming it’s too late. The last thing someone or their heating wants is a large hole in their house in the dead of winter.

3. Wrap Your Pipes

Insulating pipes reduces the amount of heat lost and can raise hot water temperatures. This allows you to reduce the heat on your boiler and means you don’t have to wait as long for hot water. Wrapping your pipes will aid in preventing your pipes from freezing during long, cold nights. The biggest benefit can be found in your utility bill. Conserving water and heating energy is sure to cut costs. Pre-slit pipe foam is available at hardware stores and installation is simple: cut the foam to the length you need, wrap it around the pipe, and fasten it in place with duct tape.

4. Block Your Leaks

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, drafts can waste 5 to 30 percent of your energy use. Don’t wait until you feel a draft, go looking for leaks. They can be found with a thermal draft sensor, or you can just run your bare hand around every window frame, door, etc. You’re likely to find drafts underneath doors, near windows and between pipes/wires. If you find a leak underneath your door put a draft snake across the bottom of it. Caulk can help with leaks around windows; make sure to use weather resistant caulk. And do not forget to caulk from the outside too.

5. Reverse Your Fans

Ceiling fans can be used in the winter. A lot of people think ceiling fans create cold air but they do not, they just circulate air. Warm air rises and normally a fan spins to help suck that warm air up. Reversing them (most have a switch at the top to reverse) will have the blades spin clockwise. This pushes air down. The warm air around your fan will be circulated down into the room.

RV solar panel kits produce energy from the sun. The kit is connected to the RV battery. These kits usually come with easy to install solar panel, regulator, cable, and battery clamps (See some Sunforce solar chargers here). During the day, solar panels conserve energy by storing the energy in their cells. The conserved energy can be used 24 hours to produce electric power.

RV solar panel kits allow its owner to consume electricity whenever needed. They don’t have to rely on an electricity

Photo by Serolynne

source like generators and on-site electric outlets.

To determine how much power is needed for your RV, first calculate total amps used by appliances. Usually, light bulbs, DVD player, Tv, laptop, satellite, water pump, and fan consume 2 to 4 ampere. In contrast, most energy is consumed by kitchen appliances. For example, a microwave can consume 100 ampere per hour.

Similarly, toaster and coffee maker can use 60 ampere per hour. Once you have figured out all energy consuming appliances, it is time to multiply total ampere hours per day with the number of days in a week. For example, weekend camping hours can be calculated by multiplying total ampere hours by two.

The goal of all solar panels is to generate the maximum amount of electricity. The industry standard for PV panel ratings is defined by the amount of amperes produced at 77 degree Fahrenheit. Since solar panels are rated in watts, you want to look for the specifications indicating the number of watts produced at 77 degree Fahrenheit. If measured, in real life, a panel is most likely to produce 10% to 15% less energy. A good solar panel with good wattage is the one that meets the industry standard and waste less energy in real life.

In addition to a solar panel, the kit may include charge controller, cable connectors, mounting clamps, capacity meter and a wiring diagram.

While you can install small solar power kits yourself, expert help is recommended to install larger solar panels. Panel sizes are usually available from 60 watts to 260 watts. Most solar power panels can be clamped on the roof of your RV. Nowadays, powerful suction cups are also available to attach these panels.

Most RVs use 6 volts or 12 volts batteries. These batteries can be wired either in parallel or in series to get a 12 volt output. For example, two 6 volts batteries wired in series can provide a total of 220 amp hours. The positive from one battery is connected to the negative of other battery. The free ends are used to connect to RV. For batteries wired in parallel, the positive will connect to the positive and the negative will connect to the negative. The free cable at each end will connect to the corresponding alternate ends of RV.

Q & A

• What Will a 220 Watt Solar RV Kit Run? – A 220 watt solar kit can run lights, LCD Tv, fan, and a laptop computer.
• Will a 60 watt solar panel charge a rv battery? – Yes, 60 watt solar kit can charge the battery.
• Can solar panel run a rv air conditioner? – No, it is not cost effective to run an air-conditioner. Instead of using an AC, some people use evaporative coolers and similar methods.
• How much solar power do you need to run lights in a rv? – A 220 watt solar kit is enough to lights most bulbs. Usually, a much smaller kit can do the job effectively.

Dr. Fortie is a freelance writer with experiences in small business renewable energy solutions. He writes for blogs and contribute forum threads to help people go solar.

Architects and interior designers who can provide unusual and unique looks for their clients are often in demand. This demand allows them to charge high fees for their services, limiting the availability to certain individuals who can afford to pay for it. Consider yourself lucky if you can get a designer and your home for less than $100,000.

These days, more and more talented individuals are sharing their skills at a lesser price. As more designers are willing to push the envelope on what makes home designs stand out, more people are able to get dream homes into reality. More designers are also experimenting on building techniques allowing flexibility when it comes to creating unique homes on a budget.

Here are our top five choices for uniquely designed homes that didn’t break the bank.

1. House of Straw by Carolyn Roberts

The first pig brother built a straw house that was immediately blown away by the big bad wolf due to its lack of support and strength. That’s not the case with Carolyn Roberts’ house. Located in the middle of the Tucson desert, it still stands after eight years. There’s a whole community of straw house builders, and Carolyn was able to get their help in building her house. The house was designed by Wayne Bingham, who continues to design straw bale houses that meet the building codes implemented by various states and counties.

The house is 880 square feet, but the interior measures only 640 square feet. It has a sleeping loft and glass sun room on the house’s south side that allows passive solar heat to enter the house during the winter season. The straw walls act as an insulator from the summer heat, and the earthen plasters allow it to maintain an even temperature. Carolyn collects about 500 gallons of rainwater from half an inch of rainfall and a handmade solar water heater heats it up. Discounting the cost of the land, she spent a little over US$50,000 for the house. Friends and neighbors pitched in during the building, helping keep the cost of labor down.

With proper planning, research and support of people who knew how to build a straw house, Carolyn was able to build one that even the strongest huffing and puffing can’t bring down.

2. Alchemy’s weeHouse

The weeHouse is Alchemy’s line of prefabricated, single module homes that can be dropped off any site. The city, a forest, the desert, by the lake and even a rooftop are just some places where the weeHouse can stand. A basic unit is made of steel frame and wood, with bamboo floors and storage from Ikea. They also offer “Not so wee houses”, which involves stackable modules and the addition of various elements like porches and stairwells. This results in bigger prefabricated homes that often occupy a larger space and can go beyond one storey.

The starting price of a weeHouse is at US$125 per square foot. While Alchemy already has a stock of weeHouse plans and designs, you can customize your own weeHouse.

3. Low Impact Woodland Home by Simon Dale

This house built by Simon Dale and his father-in-law in Wales is straight out of the Lord of the Rings. It looks exactly like what houses at the Shire would look like. Like the majority of unique low-cost homes, Dale wanted to build one that had a small amount of carbon footprint; used little fossil fuels and was “considerate” of the environment around it. They wanted to have a house that was easily accessible as they worked in ecological woodland management in the area surrounding their house. Not to mention that it had to be low-cost, as the couple’s finances were not exactly overflowing.

Dale had but one experience in building a similar house. That, along with much trial and error resulted in this cozy and eco-friendly abode. With the help of family, friends and the occasional passersby and using natural materials and tools like the chisel, a chain saw and a hammer, they were able to cut back on the costs and finish building it in four months. The cost? $5000.

4. The Storybook House by Dan Phillips

Having seen his family go through the Great Depression, Phillips grew up learning to value whatever he had on hand. He learned how to build things from scraps, and has never stopped. He went on to become an architect, and today he designs homes that are 75% made out of recycled material.

The Storybook House was inspired by everything Phillips knew about fairy tale houses. From the outside, it may not seem like much, but the Normandy-style house catches your eye with its striped roof and wooden doors decorated with glass bottle ends, giving it a stained glass effect. Inside is as cozy and comfortable as any storybook house.

5. Tumbleweed Homes
Jay Shafer designs houses that measure 89 to 100 square feet. He’s been building Tumbleweed Houses since 1997, inspired by the need to decrease his carbon footprint yet still live comfortably. Tumbleweed Houses are prefabricated homes much like the weeHouse, yet the latter looks like little dollhouses with wheels (for easy re-location should you wish to, er, move). Tumbleweed houses can be purchased already constructed, or you can buy plans if you want to try and build your own. Each house comes complete with a kitchen, a living area, a bathroom and a sleeping loft.

With a little ingenuity, it’s easy enough to own a lovely home but still be under a small budget. You don’t have to be a Hollywood star to have a unique home you can be proud to call your own.

Ally is part of the team that manages Budgeting Spreadsheet and How To Save Money, which are personal finance guides, based in Sydney, Australia. Before joining the team, she was a Media Planner with McCann Worldgroup Philippines, Inc., with award-winning executions, including the Levi’s 501 “Live Unbuttoned” global campaign.

In this first article we are just going to deal with the first point above, and look at the type of extractor fan you require. This will also help you to think about what other aspects of an extractor fan are important to you.

The most commonly sold domestic bathroom extractor fans are axial. These fans suck the air in at the front and discharge it out of the back. They tend to be smaller and quieter than centrifugal fans, but not as powerful. They are suitable to be installed in walls and windows (window kits are normally required in addition), but should generally only be installed onto ceilings when you have a very short duct run. A duct run is the ducting that runs from the back of the fan to the eventual external outlet for the air, i.e. the outside wall or roof. You can connect flexible or rigid ducting to the back of the fan, which leads to the outlet, on which you install a grille. Axial fans can be installed into exterior walls and windows because the air is going straight outside……when you install into a ceiling, the duct run tends to be longer, and axial fans as a general rule loose power when ducted over distances. The advantage of axial fans is that they tend to be smaller, use less energy, and are usually quieter than centrifugal fans.

Centrifugal fans work by spinning the air through 90° inside the fan to increase air pressure and create a higher airflow rate. This means they tend to have higher extraction rates than axial fans, and can be ducted over longer distances, so are more suitable for ceiling installations. However, this means they are usually bulkier, noisier and use more energy.

Inline fans can be either axial or centrifugal, and are housed in the loft space above the bathroom between 2 lengths of ducting. The advantages of these are that as the motor is housed up in the loft the sound is dampened by the ceiling, meaning they can be more powerful than wall mounted fans but not any noisier. Obviously not all installations, due to space restrictions are suitable for inline fans.

Hopefully this has got you thinking about the main features required in your fan. In future articles, I’ll be discussing the other points raised in this article.

Please see Bathroom Extractor Fans for more information.

Paul Blythe writes about extractor fans for Gil-lec Electrical Wholesalers and kindly asks that all backlinks are retained.

Before taking a further look into this type of HVAC system, let’s first address the basics.

What is a Heat Pump?

A heat pump is a unique heating system that is capable of both heating and cooling designated environments. In hot climates, it performs similar to an electric-powered air conditioner, collecting heat from the indoors, expelling it outdoors and then replacing it with cool air. When the indoor climate is cold, it does the opposite, transferring the cold air away from the area requiring heat.

Air source heat pumps are normally used in environments that experience moderate climates, where air temperature differences are taken full advantage of to heat and cool the respective properties. Heat pumps with a stamp of approval from Energy Star have a greater seasonal efficiency rating (SEER) and heating seasonal performance factor (HSPF) than standard models. This results in 8 percent more efficiency than new standard models and 20 percent more efficiency than older furnace models.

Efficient and Eco-Friendly

With the current increase in ‘green’ initiatives and government incentives, rewarding those that actively seek to lower their carbon emissions, it is no wonder that geothermal heat pumps are receiving more attention in many areas of the world. Undoubtedly, they are highly energy efficient and naturally eco-friendly. This is largely due to fact that they transfer heat directly from and towards the ground in different climates.

For example, during the winter geo-heat pumps draw hot air upwards from beneath the earth’s surface, while in the summer cold air is transferred back in the ground to provide cooling. The actual process of heat transfer occurs by a refrigerant loop, situated in the core part of the pump, being pushed through a vapour-compression cycle. Some experts have stated that, individually, geothermal heat pumps can provide up to three units of heat for every single unit required for them to operate. In Lehman’s terms, this means that they can achieve efficiency levels of up to 300 percent. How’s that for energy efficiency!

Energy Costs…

Taking this into consideration, it clearly makes sense for these heating systems to be incorporated in blueprints for new property developments. For existing properties, its application can be better accepted as part of a major renovation, and would be an ideal investment for those already planning a building remodel project that takes into account environmental concerns.

Geothermal heating systems provide heating, air-conditioning, hot water, and dehumidification, but with up to 80 percent less annual operating costs than most other heating options. It’s no surprise then that average high efficiency furnace prices for geothermal systems are two to three times more expensive than alternative options, and on average three to five times more costly than alternative low- to mid-efficiency heating systems.

…and Overall Energy Savings

There are two very good reasons for the premium asking price. The first is that geothermal heat pumps significantly reduce annual operating costs by up to 80 percent, which in itself is a great energy and money savings feat. This means that even though its initial cost of acquisition is visibly greater than alternative systems, the geothermal heating option still remains a feasible budget solution in many scenarios.

The second reason, which can never be overstated, is that geothermal energy is extremely environmentally-friendly. Whereas natural gas, oil and wood-burning systems release carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide and other toxic pollutants into the atmosphere, geothermal heat pumps do not. Similarly, geothermal systems don’t produce ash and soot, making them exempt from wastage issues. In as much as gas is the cleaner element to burn than oil and wood it remains a highly explosive risk and air polluting chemical. Geothermal systems, on the other hand, are typically closed and non-dependent on toxin-releasing fuels, making them much, much better for us, plants, animals and our beloved environment.

So next time you are planning to buy a new home, or develop your own property, think geothermal! It’s a clean, economical solution that’s extremely good for the environment. This means you’ll definitely be doing your bit to sustain the environment and no-one can tell you otherwise. That makes it worthwhile all by itself.

The rising price of gas and electricity is leading many people to sacrifice heating because they simply cannot afford it. However, as the months get colder there are two easy and efficient home insulation options that can help reduce your heating bills. Cavity wall and loft insulation are excellent for containing warmth, but keep in mind they tend to settle over time, so if you are viewing older houses with estate agents in Paddington or elsewhere, ask whether these have been topped up recently.

More than half of the internal heat in your home escapes through the ceiling and the walls. Draughts coming in through the floors, doors and windows account for an additional 30% of lost heat, which is why it’s essential that your home insulations are all in top condition. Insulation products for the home are generally inexpensive and in some instances they are even free.

Since 2009 more than 1.3 million British homes have had their cavity walls filled as part of the government’s plan to reduce carbon emissions and fuel wastage. While many people remain sceptical, others ask why the British Government would spend so much money on a programme that could lead to them being sued for rising damp problems. While there are certain houses and walls that are simply unsuitable for cavity filling, this is not the case for most houses.

People are often wary when they hear about different types of home insulation, especially having cavity walls filled as they hear stories about how this can lead to rising damp. However, a study of 20 000 homes in the UK showed that while 3.5% of home with filled cavities suffered from damp, 8% of homes that did not have filled cavities suffered from the same problem.

Cavity filling can save you hundreds of pounds on your heating bills. When viewing homes for sale or rent ask your central London estate agents if the houses you are looking at have suitable home insulation so that you can save on your heating bills.

Sally Roberts is a keen writer of property related issues as well as business and investment opportunities.

While children and some adults love to see the snow fall, there is no doubt of the effect it can have on our lives.  With many schools closed last year due to health and safety, it was difficult for parents to get to work and this had a major blow on the economy.  Another problem was that many of us were forced to have our heating on for much longer periods which obviously costs more money.  And for those using home heating oil, buying oil during these periods of high demand, can be hugely expensive.  For that reason, many heating oil users will be looking for ways in which they can save some money on their heating bills this year.  The following are a few ideas:

Ensure Your Home is Adequately Insulated

A big cause of us spending more than we need to on heating is that our homes are not insulated properly.  This means that heat is lost and we end up having the heating on for longer.  A lot of people are unaware that poor insulation in their attic causes heat to be lost and they cannot fathom why their home takes so long to heat up.  Draughts around windows and doors is another problem.  It would be well worth having someone come in to check your home to see if there is anything you can do to improve its energy rating.  You may have to pay for this but you will save money on your heating bills if you get your home insulated properly.

Close all Vents

Most of the rooms in our homes will have vents in the walls or above the windows and while these are great for letting in fresh air in the summer, they can also allow cold air to come in during the winter.  By closing these vents, you can keep the warm air inside and this means your home will stay cosy and warm.  If you can trap the heat inside the home, you will not have to have it on for so long, thus saving you money.

Lower the Temperature on Your Thermostat

Photo by C Jill Reed

You may not notice the difference in heat if you lower your thermostat by one or two degrees but you will definitely notice the difference in price.  A lot of people have their heating so high, that it can become quite uncomfortable.  Yet taking the temperature down by a degree will not make a huge difference and you may not even notice it at all.

The above are just some of the ways that you can save some money on your heating oil bills this winter.

Musa is a freelance writer and internet marketer, and enjoys writing about many diverse and wonderful topics. His current project involves writing about heating oil prices UK.

Once a child comes into the house which will make the number of children exceed the available rooms, we become aware

Image: Salvatore Vuono / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

of this problem. Certainly, young children can share a bedroom for a while but in most first-world countries this becomes a little weird after a certain age. At the very minimum you want the child to have their own room before puberty arrives.  So, with these obvious social norms in mind, we must decide how we are going to expand our family home.

Not Clearing Land and Scarring the Earth

One option could be to build a new house or move in to an existing house. From an environmental standpoint, building a new house is a fairly dramatic activity. Firstly, we’re settling land by clearing it of vegetation and possibly (certainly) displacing animals from their homes. Remember that the settled portion of the land overall will have a large impact on the balance of nature. Those asking how this could be a factor could perhaps look at Google Earth to see satellite imagery of the world, or even just near where they live. Developed land looks substantially different to untouched land. From the satellite image it looks like scarring, and there’s a lot of it. It’s hard to argue that this is not of significant impact to the planet.

Moving into an Existing House?

On this note, we could simply ask if it would be less of an environmental impact to move into an existing house. Well, not really. The only time this would be less of an impact is if a family would be moving into a house that was underutilized, and the occupants of the larger house were moving to a smaller existing house (such as the one the family had moved away from). This is a less common case however, as how often do we see empty nesters (the most likely candidate for a downsizing of their house) living in the same house they raised their children in until they are physically incapable of living there. As a general rule moving to a new and larger house is forcing the construction of a new house somewhere else.

Renovation as an option

This brings us to the consideration which is renovation. By renovating a house to give it extra bedrooms we are effectively increasing housing density and combating urban sprawl. Timber, bricks, concrete and other building materials are still used in a renovation, but the material cost of building extra rooms is still significantly lower than the construction of a new house.

A final consideration and a great one, is an attic conversion. Your attic can be converted into a living and luxurious space, that could fix your accommodation needs. There is minimal construction work required compared to the construction of new rooms, and adds significant value to your home. It’s also much better for the environment and better for your wallet. It’s another great case where environmentally friendly is also wallet friendly, and a win for everyone.

This article promoting environmental awareness is brought to you by the team at www.attix.com.au, a leading Australian provider of attic conversions. If you enjoyed this article you may also want to read The Top 5 Green Reasons we should all be living in high density housing.

How do you turn simple heat that has been beating down on the earth since before the existence of humans, into an energy source that lights our houses, runs our air conditioners, and powers the TV?  How does a simple reflective panel use natural light for large scale operations like factories and medical product testing?  The answer is a simple: the laws of nature.  By capturing and breaking down what already happens naturally, solar energy helps to reduce pollution in the environment while still providing us with the electricity we need to survive day to day. But … can it really be that easy?

From sun rays to electricity…

There are a few ways that sunlight can be made into electricity.  One, and possibly the easiest, is through the use of solar cells, (also known as photovoltaic, PV or photoelectric).  These cells transfer sunlight directly into electricity, minimizing and streamlining the process.

A second way of turning the sun’s rays into power is slightly more complicated. The solar panels first collect the natural light that reflects from the sun. Simple so far, right? The heat from those rays is then transferred into a synthetic oil. Oil is used, rather than water, so that the boiling pressure can be controlled because the heat can reach astonishing levels.  The oil then circulates and is transferred into power.  This is more commonly used when energy needs to be stockpiled after an extremely hot and sunny day.

One more type of solar power that can be used is solar heating.  Buildings can be constructed with glass ceilings to absorb heat and minimize its need for a central heating system.  Black pipes can also be placed near glass ceiling or wall panels in order to heat a unit’s water.

Depending on what type of energy collecting is used, the maintenance and upkeep may differ.  This includes solar power testing to ensure that the equipment is working properly and efficiently.  However, all solar power units should be cleaned on a fairly regular basis because it is easier to collect and reflect energy on a clean panel surface.  A dirty or smudged surface will interfere with this process, making it less likely that each panel operates at its highest efficiency possible.

All of the abovementioned forms of collecting and producing solar energy are efficient alternatives for providing electricity that are environmentally-friendly.

This guest post is brought to you by Michelle Anderson, a blogger who enjoys writing about solar power testing and FCC approval.

Many believe that harnessing the sun’s power is the future of sustainable energy production. Although the initial costs can be quite high, photovoltaic technology is starting to become more affordable and increasingly commonplace in new building developments. Businesses, companies and individuals are becoming more aware of their carbon footprints, and are willing to invest in a cleaner future by installing solar panels on their properties.

There are currently more incentives than ever to install solar panels; with the UK governments feed-in tariff schemes, people are getting cash back incentives for installing photovoltaic panels, as well as the opportunity to sell energy back to the national grid!

How do Solar Panels work?

Sunlight is made of energy called photons. Each photon contains energy which is relative to its wavelength. When this photon hits a solar cell in your photovoltaic panel, it is either reflected, passed through, or absorbed. When it is absorbed, the energy from the photon is absorbed by an electron, which in turn provides useable electricity.

What are the Benefits of Using Solar Panels?

As previously mentioned, there are financial incentives which make installing solar panels an extremely attractive prospect. Cash back schemes and the selling of unused energy aside, energy bills can be dramatically lowered by creating your own energy, instead of total reliance on the national grid. For these reasons, the initial costs of installing solar panels can often be made back, whilst improving your carbon footprint and the environment.

As increasing numbers of home owners and business owners fit solar panels to their properties, the solar industry continues to expand at an exponential rate. This has been further fuelled by the Government incentives which make solar energy and even more attractive prospect. With increased business in the solar industry, comes increased competition. With increased competition, comes a reduced price for the consumer! As a consumer, now is a great time to invest in solar energy.

Solar Energy Facts:

• Solar Energy is often used to hear properties. About 30% of our total energy consumption is used to heat water.

•  Usually around 40 solar cells are contained within a solar panel, and 10 to 12 solar panels are contained within an array. The array is then faced north to maximise the amount of sunlight it sees.

•  When combined with a battery backup system, solar panels can supply household energy for 24 hours a day, even when its cloudy.

Evergreen PV specialise in supplying Feed-in-Tariff eligible MCS approved solar panels.

There are many initiatives promoting double glazed windows. Nottingham council ran a scheme recently where they promoted double glazing, insulation, energy efficient appliances, and other ways of making your home eco friendly. Other councils are doing similar schemes, but what they often forget to mention is how important it is to take good care of your double glazing.

The following tips will help you to make sure that your double glazing lasts long enough to pay for itself many times over.

1. Keep it clean – vacuum the seals, openings, and frames frequently. This will ensure that dir t does not build up and damage the seals, which can be expensive to fix.
2. Keep an eye out for damp – if you have wooden frames, this is doubly important. If you spot mould or mildew build up, act immediately. Ventilate the area, and try to find the source of the damp as soon as possible
3. Clean your windows the traditional way – a sponge and a mild cleaning solution (even just vinegar and water) is a better way to clean windows than a high pressure hose that may damage the seal of the window.
4. Fix breakages properly – if one of your windows does get broken, don’t be tempted to just slot a new pane in yourself. Get the window replaced professionally so that it is definitely sealed correctly.
5. Beware of paints – some paints do not get on with the materials used in double glazing seals. If you’re thinking of re-painting your window frames, double check that it’s safe to use that type of paint for that purpose. If there’s any doubt at all, ask a professional.

Double glazing is an investment, and should be treated as such. Double glazing is expensive to install, but it will last for decades if it is looked after carefully. In the rare cases that something does go wrong, it can be tempting to try to fix the problem yourself – especially if it’s just a small pane on your home’s lower level, but it’s worth remembering that double glazing is rather different to standard single pane windows.

Modern double glazing installations often use specially treated glass, and fill the gap between the panes with an inert gas, such as argon. They also use special seals and spacers to make sure that the windows are as energy efficient as possible. If you attempt to fix a double glazing pane yourself, you won’t be able to seal it as well as the original manufacturer did.  It would be a shame to ruin the energy efficiency benefits of double glazing by having one “odd window out” that is a little draughty and lets all the heat out of the house!

This post was written by Crispin Jones on behalf of Stormclad the experienced suppliers of windows Nottingham. Crispin is interested in ways to save energy in the home and enjoys writing on this subject.

When spending thousands on a solar panel system, it is important to be genuinely happy with it. Though for some the prospect of free, green electricity will be enough, for others aesthetics play a larger role.

Traditionally solar panels have been blue, getting their distinctive appearance from the silicon which converts solar energy to electricity for use in the home. However as the solar panel market is progressing, more and more ‘attractive’ panel types are being introduced. Homeowners now have more options to incorporate a solar panel array into their home in a more visually pleasing way.

Black Solar Panels

For many homes, particularly those with slate roofs, choosing a black on-roof panel array can be an attractive option. Black panels are attached to the roof with an all-black mounting system and can ‘blend’ much more effectively into the roof with much less of a visual impact. They are attached to the roof using the traditional on-roof techniques but with a more seamless appearance due to their colour. Companies such as Sharp, Sanyo, Solar Century and Suntech all offer black coloured solar panels, some with black frames. These reduce the effect that the panels ‘stand out’ from your existing roof.

In-Roof Mounted Systems

As an option for installing a more visually pleasing solar photovoltaic (PV) array, this is more invasive but can produce attractive results. For those who object to the look of a panel array on a roof, the in-roof system can be more aesthetically pleasing. Though easier to install in a new-build or re-roof situation, in-roof mounted systems can also be retro-fitted. Where traditional on-roof panel systems are attached using mounting brackets, in-roof systems are mounted directly onto the rafters. In a retro-fit installation therefore, this involves removing roof tiles and replacing them with panels. An in-roof type of installation results in the panels lying flush with the roof. Once again, choosing black panels and a black mounting system will result in a more seamless appearance on a black or slate roof.

Solar Panel Roof Tiles

This form of building integrated photovoltaics is generally considered to be the most attractive and aesthetically pleasing form of solar panel installation. Quite literally these solar panels are roof tiles, and can be installed into a roof in the same way, replacing regular tiles. Many people would consider these for a new-build solar installation or during a re-roof, but they can also be installed retroactively, although this will involve re-tiling a certain area of your roof. They blend into the roof structure which results in significantly less visual impact than traditional panel arrays, usually with the added benefit of providing additional roof insulation. Solar panel roof tiles are available from companies such as System Photonics and Solar Century and are usually black in colour, making them the perfect choice for a black or slate roof.

Though these alternative solar panel options provide homeowners with the benefits of aesthetically pleasing solar panels, they can be more costly than traditional solar PV arrays. The installation costs are likely to be higher as the work in re-tiling a roof will be more complex than attaching a solar panel array with brackets onto an existing roof. The costs of materials are also likely to be higher. For many, however, the costs of an aesthetically pleasing solar panel roof array are priceless.

Shade is an Asset

If you happen to live in an area where big beautiful shade trees are nowhere in sight, there is an increased burden in the form of energy costs to keep indoor temperatures down.    One solution gaining increased awareness around more of the world is solar screens.  They replace the traditional screen with a material engineered to block up to 70-80% of the sun’s heat so it never even gets to the window.

Solar Screens have several  benefits once installed:

• Heat penetration is reduced by 80%
• Power consumption is reduced
• Attractive exterior features
• Keeps home décor from fading: furniture, carpet and drapes

Solar Screen Heat Reduction

As an example, let’s say there are 230 British Thermal Units hitting your solar screen. A solar screen has the capability to block 184 of those 230 BTU’s coming through the screen and hit a window’s exterior surface. If your home has double-paned windows on top of that, the remaining 46 BTU’s are further reduced to 35 BTU’s before reaching inside of your home. With a little math you will find 85 percent of the sun’s rays stay out of your home using these solar screens, by dividing 230 BTU’s (the number you started off with) by 35 BTU’s (the number you ended with).

Decorator Approved

There are several options available when choosing a solar screen and matching the décor around your home. Some screen are almost invisible, others will match exterior walls around a home and accent colors, which further accentuate the look of the home.

No More High Air-Conditioning Bills

With the sun less obtrusive and the reduction of its rays coming into your home, your air conditioner has never had it this good in the summer and your bill will provide the proof. You will be able to enjoy the sun without having to endure the heat or pay for it on your next electricity bill.

Costs involved: Will Your Power Bill Drop?

Once installed, it shouldn’t take long to see the effects of the solar screens.   Every month that passes supports you decision until the screens have paid for themselves and you are enjoying the lasting cost savings of your investment.   It doesn’t require a huge investment to achieve green living and solar screen contractors should be willing to give you a free estimate as an incentive to “go green.”

Vinyl roofing can be a great choice if you have a flat or low-sloped roof. This is because it comes prefabricated in a single sheet, and it is designed to perfectly fit to your flat roof. This kind of PVC roofing helps to eliminate seams during installation and makes for a custom leak-proof fit.

2) You want something energy efficient.

Vinyl roofing material is among the most energy efficient choices that you can select for your building. Many PVC roofing membranes come with great reflective surfaces, dirt repelling capabilities and insulation benefits. This is why some of them are certified by the Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star products program. Energy Star products help you conserve energy, thus helping the environment and your wallet. With vinyl roofing, it’s easy to keep the hot sun from bearing down on your roof (and thus heating up the top floor of your home). It also is well insulated at the same time, which keeps any wanted heat within your home rather than releasing it through your roof.

3) You have a low to no traffic roof.

A vinyl roof is best for those who have little to no foot traffic up top. This is because walking on your roof, especially in temperatures below 50 degrees, can cause damage through cracking, punctures and related wear. Businesses may be a good candidate for PVC roofing, because they often have less roof traffic than some residential homes.

4) You want something quickly and easily installed.

One big benefit of vinyl roofing is that commercial roofing professionals can install it quickly and easily. This is due to the fact that the roofing is prefabricated and can be designed to specifications in the factory. You can have your roof designed without lots of hammering and noise, because it only needs to adhere to the surface. It also doesn’t require any hazardous materials or nasty fumes to install. You can even get vinyl installed over another roofing surface without any demolition required. Due to the fact that there is no tear-off, hammering, cutting or messing with the roof materials, it takes far less time to install a PVC roof than conventional sorts made from shingles.

5) You crave durability and great warranties.

PVC roofs often carry very good warranties, and they can last for decades. Many of the best companies offer 15- to 20-year warranties (although you should research this ahead of time). You can often transfer these warranties to new owners if you sell your dwelling. In addition, PVC is resistant to many weather conditions and foreign substances, such as fire, chemicals, high winds, grease and even a range of extremes in temperature.

Jessica writes about a wide variety of topics.  She especially enjoys writing about construction. You can learn more about vinyl roofing at duro-last.com

Easy To Install

This inexpensive update is also a great project for homeowners planning to stay in their homes for a longer period of time.  Under cabinet lights are easy to install and impressive once complete. Choose a dimmable fixture and add mood lighting to your kitchen.  Choose a puck lighting style to create mini spotlights that will highlight your countertops.  Choose a plug-in model if you have a nearby outlet and install the fixtures without calling an electrician.  In short, under cabinet lighting gives you a lot of bang for your buck.

Take Your Color Temperature

The best way to decide what kind of under cabinet lighting works for you is to think about what color of light you prefer.  Is the golden glow of an incandescent light bulb appealing to you, or would you rather choose a neutral white light for your kitchen?  To choose the right fixture, read the product descriptions and look for color temperature ratings.  Color temperature measures the color appearance of a light source, and it’s measured on the Kelvin scale.

A “warm” color temperature, characteristic of an incandescent light bulb, is 2800K.  A “cool” color temperature, characteristic of a cool white fluorescent light bulb, or some LED fixtures, is around 4100K. Xenon light has a warm color temperature, as it is a type of incandescent light.  Fluorescent lighting is typically available in a variety of color temperatures, and you can choose your preference when you select your fixture.  LEDs generally give off bright white light.

If you’re comparing under cabinet lighting fixtures, make sure that color temperature is part of the decision-making process.  By paying attention to this important specification, you can guarantee that you’ll love the finished project.

Pegasus Lighting is an online lighting retailer with quality lighting products for both residential and commercial settings.  Their under cabinet lighting selection includes xenon, fluorescent, and LED products with a variety of features.  Founded in 1993, Pegasus Lighting offers a learning experience in lighting by providing FAQs, detailed product information, valuable tips, and how-to articles.