I have to admit I'm not an advocate of the necessity of going green and
believe the so-called science to be full of holes and unsubstantiated claims.
However, there is no denying the fact that we should all care about the planet
and do whatever we can as good stewards of it. So with that in mind, I decided
to share just a few things you might consider if you need to replace something
anyway or if you're planning a build-out or remodel of any kind.
Install a tank-less hot water heater. Saves water and energy too.
Don't over build and use all space efficiently.
Recycle or donate all unusable material you are discarding.
Buy locally manufactured products to eliminate shipping costs and associated
fuel costs.
Look for recycled materials and even furniture.
Bring in renewable bamboo or engineered wood to replace hardwoods that only
deplete our forests.
Put an energy efficient fan in bathrooms. Reduces moisture and mold.
Seek dual-pane windows. They help reduce sun's rays and heat and that
reduces energy consumption.
Look for appliances with the Energy Star rating.
Look for ways to cross ventilate rooms to reduce need for air conditioning.
Wall Fastener Guide
Since most homes have drywall, it can be challenging to know what the right
fastener or hook you should use, especially if you can't find a stud. You always
want to use fasteners that will hold your wall decor safely and securely.
So here is a brief run down on what's available at your local hardware store.
Light Objects into Drywall
Picture hangers - check manufacturer's weight limit before buying. These
can be small nails with a guard or hook or even a sewing needle.
Heavy Objects into Drywall
Plastic hollow wall anchor - this is a permanent fastener anchored by
expanding wings behind the wall itself. Pre-drill a hole the same size as
the anchor and push it through. It will open up on its own behind the wall.
Hollow wall anchor - this is the metal version of the plastic one above.
E-Z anchor - this is metal and you'll need an electric drill or Phillips
screwdriver to get it into the wall.
Masonry
Plastic masonry anchor - you'll need a masonry drill bit to get it
installed. Make hole the same size as anchor.
You should be able to countersink the anchor so it is flush with the
wall.
Concrete
Toggle bolt - use for walls that can be penetrated. Also ok on drywall
or plaster. The wings expand once pushed through the wall.
Sleeve anchor - the anchor expands as you screw it into the wall.
Tighten the screw with a wrench.
Lag screw and lead shield - you'll need this if the wall is thicker than
the fastener. Drill hole same diameter as shield.
Bathroom Makeover Ideas
Bathrooms are no longer being neglected. Now they are a place
that demands attention. And this trend is only going to develop as bathrooms are
designed to be more spa-like environments and as more space is devoted to them
in the overall home plan.
In an ideal world, there would be a bathroom
for every bedroom, but we haven't gone that far yet. But here are some issues to
think about:
Bathtubs - Watch your window placements to avoid drafts. Make sure you
have privacy walls for any functions near windows. Don't put bathtubs too
low as it will make it difficult to clean or to bathe small children.
Basins - Use the largest basins your bathroom will handle. Current
counters are 33" high but consider making yours higher if possible, like
36". It will be more comfortable to use.
Water closets - Opt for quiet flushing and water saving features. Longer
toilets from front to back are more body friendly to both sexes.
Bidets - Place a soap dish and towel close by. Longer from front to back
is best size and shape.
Showers - Make large enough to get away from the water when soaping
down. Seats or foot rests are really appreciated by women. Controls should
be easily accessible from outside the shower. Grab bars are needed for
safety.
Storage - don't forget this all important item. More is better than
less. Utilize the height as well as available storage space, like above the
water closet.
Patriotic Children's Books for Americans
Are you a conservative, concerned parent or grandparent? Are you concerned about the direction
our country is going in? Are you looking for great Christmas gift ideas?
Are you looking for tools you can use to educate your preschool children on the values of our founding fathers, our constitution, our flag and
the Bill of Rights?
Resources are available.
Now you have access to some great picture books to share with your children
(ages 4-8) that they will
absolutely love for you to read to them.
They will learn the Preamble to the Constitution with one; how to take care of the flag with another; the importance of
freedom of speech and the right to assembly peacefully to express
their
wishes with yet another; the right of freedom of religion with another; and the
right to bear arms to protect self and loved ones
with another.
For details, please visit PatriotCats.Com. We are living in perilous times and our freedoms are being eroded away every day.
Fall Fashion
Watch these very entertaining videos on fall fashion by Spankie
Valentine. You'll love
the cool styles.
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