Sometimes adding fun décor to your home becomes more about utility then it does about design. We often focus on the way something makes us feel in the space within our home, but we tend to forget that the space itself can have an effect as well. When it comes to your house there is little as important as having the space you need for you and your family to live.

As times get harder, and money gets tighter, it is not often a viable option to move into a bigger home. In fact, it typically is more necessary for families to be moving into a smaller space in order to save money.

When this happens, or when you help take on others into your own home, what can you affordably do to make sure that you still have the room that you need, but not compromise on the things that you need?

The best solution for this is to utilize the effective power of bunk beds with stairs. Although you might not often think about these as items sufficient enough to work well for adults, the truth is these remarkable beds have advanced significantly in recent years to now be a truly comfortable, roomy, and cost effective beds.

When we think about bunk beds with stairs we think of summer camps, military service, or spare rooms, and although these are all important and effective uses of this functional bed, the fact is they can be used by really anyone.

Not only are they a great space saver, they are also very flexible. It is possible to now get accessory pieces that can be added on to the frame that include items such as storage space, drawers, shelving, and even a desk. This allows the user to get the absolute most out of their room, and this can be just as effective for adults as it can be for their children.

In addition to this, the bunk bed with stairs can also be changed by taking it apart and converting it into two separate beds. This is handy when you are in need of putting two people in different areas, and don’t have the money to go out and buy two brand new beds.

We all need the most out of our homes and as we work through these difficult times using something like bunk beds with stairs can be a real and positive solution to the limitations we may face regarding our space.

Your garden isn’t just a place to grow your flowers or healthy vegetables.  It is also a place for you to create an oasis; a special place for you to escape after a long hard day at the office or with the children.  Decorating your home garden can range from simple, elegant décor to over the top, extravagance.  The way you decide to make the space “yours” is totally up to you. The following are a few tips on how you can get started decorating your home garden.  How will you take your garden to the next level?

Home Garden

Source – pleeker

1. Decorative pots. The easiest and most cost efficient way to decorate your garden is by choosing an assortment of decorative pots to house your flowers and plants.  Available in countless sizes, shapes, and colors, you can let your imagination run wild when choosing decorative pots for your space.  If you are crafty, consider creating your very own decorative pots.  Pots of different sizes will complement each other nicely.
2. Benches. Every garden needs at least one bench. This will allow you to sit and enjoy the peaceful sounds and beautiful scenery made available to you by your garden.  Choose a material such as wood or metal that signifies the look you are going for with your garden.  If you prefer the modern, elegant feel, a bench made of rod iron will work perfectly.
3. Bird bath/birth houses. Invite nature into your garden by providing a nice place for the birds to bathe and rest.  There are tons of bird baths and bird houses for you to choose from at your local hardware store.  Many bird baths will be large and will make a grand statement in your garden. However, if it is a vegetable garden that you are trying to spruce up, adding a bird bath may not be a good choice.
4. Seasonal décor. Get festive and decorate your garden to coordinate with the season.  For fall, include pumpkins, gourds, hay, etc.  For summer, opt for colorful flags that will blow in the summer breeze.  Christmas is always a fun time of year when you can add lights, inflatable characters, and other decorations.
5. Statues. There are statues made specifically for your garden. Like a bird bath, large statues can make a grand statement.  Some people opt for statues of animals, while others prefer statue replicas of famous pieces from the past.
6. Stepping stones. Make a walking path throughout your garden with elegant stepping stones.  Pavers made from materials such as cement, porcelain, or ceramic are a great for making pathways.
7. A water feature. The sound of water will add a soothing, relaxing effect to your garden. Water features can be large or small.  A small goldfish pond in the garden can bring life and relaxation to your space.  Water fountains made for the outdoors will also work well in your garden.
8. Sentimental treasures. Craft projects that your kids create can add a decorative touch to your garden.  Allow them to create their very own stepping stones, bird houses, wind chimes, etc. and place them in your garden.  These will prove a personal touch to your space and be something that you can keep in your garden for a lifetime.
9. Lighting. Does your garden have lighting? Solar lighting is a popular choice if you aren’t experienced in running electrical lighting.  Solar lighting is inexpensive and can lead the way to your beautiful space during the night.
10. Pine straw/mulch. Many people like to add a decorative touch to their garden by including pine straw or mulch around the plants or flowers. This also serves to protect them when the winter arrives. This is an inexpensive way to give your garden good curb appeal.

As you can see, there are many ways for you to decorate your garden.  With time and money, you can create a beautiful space that can be the epiphany of rest and relaxation.  Through seasonal décor, statues, stepping stones, lighting and the other tips listed above, your garden will be the talk of the neighborhood.  Get started creating the garden that you have always dreamed of! Your oasis awaits you.

Guest blogger Marina is freelance writer and enjoys writing about home decor products like decorative garden sundials, wall fountains, accent tables and lot more.

Step 1: Materials and Tools – In order to complete the project you will need the following materials: pressure-treated or cedar 4x4s, 2x4s, 2x6s and 2x10s of number 2 pine. You will also need pea gravel, concrete, galvanized 16-penny nails, galvanized deck screws and lag bolts. You will also need the following tools: a circular saw, a power drill, a jigsaw or reciprocating saw, a 10 foot stepladder, a framing level, a plumb line, a post hole digger, a ratchet and sockets to fit the lag bolts, a Flathead screwdriver, a shovel and a wheelbarrow or garden tractor with a cart. For a project this size, it is crucial that you have a framing hammer. This is the type that has a cross-hatched head and straight nail pullers rather than the curved ones you see on ordinary hammers. You want a hammer that feels heavy to you. The trick to using a framing hammer properly is to allow the hammer’s own weight to do most of the work for you.

Backyard Pergola

Backyard Pergola

Source – 53935223@N05

Step 2: Preparation – At this point, you’re probably eager to get to work. Take some time, however, to prepare before you begin the actual work. You want a reasonably level site that has firmly packed earth. If your site is not level, you are better off removing some dirt than adding it. If you have no choice but to add dirt, make sure you set your posts deep enough so that they are in the solid, undisturbed dirt beneath the fill.

Step 3: Set Post – Measure your site and lay out the job by marking where your four posts will go. Dig your post holes at least 24 inches below where the soil has previously been disturbed. Your holes should be no larger across than nine inches in order to get proper support from the undisturbed soil surrounding your posts. Pour pea gravel into the holes to a depth of three inches, then add 4 inches of concrete. Level the concrete and allow it to set up overnight. The next day, set the 4×4 posts into the holes. Make sure the posts are plumb and level, then temporarily brace the posts with 2x4s set at a 45 degree angle. Fill in the hole surrounding the posts with concrete.

Step 4: Set Joists and Run Stringers – Cut 2×10 joists to span the distance between the posts. Drill holes for the lag bolts through the joists and posts, then install the lag bolts. Use 2x6s for stringers. Cut the stringers to overhang the joists, then set the stringers at right angles to the joists at even 18 inch intervals and toenail into place with deck screws.

Step 5: Finish – After your concrete has cured for 24 hours, remove the 2×4 bracing from the posts. Sand exposed joist and stringer ends and examine your posts for loose splinters or rough spots, smoothing or repairing as needed. Finish your project with a waterproofing stain or sealant. Use a large magnet to check the area beneath and surrounding your new pergola for dropped screws and prepare to sit back and enjoy the shade.

Guest blogger – Anna K is blogger and freelance writer from Australia.She writes for several newspapers about  home improvement topics such as pergolas designs and several other which attract attention of many readers.

If you want to spice up your house without spending a cent, the easiest way to do so is by decorating it with indoor plants. Putting in greens is one way to add life and vitality to your living space. But one problem can be where to put them. Good plant boxes can be hard to find. The solution? Why not make your own wooden bucket and use it as plant storage.

Here are 6 steps to make a wooden bucket to store indoor plants.

Wooden Bucket

Source – silkroadcollection

Step 1: Get all the materials needed in your project and arrange them on your work table. You will need 12 pieces of cedar board at 1x2x10, ½ inch drill bit, table saw, wood glue, ratchet straps, drill, 2 pcs copperbands at ½ x 38, damp rag, copper nails, cedar board measured at 3/4x12x12, hammer, jigsaw, pencil and a rope.

Step 2: On both sides of your 1x2x10” cedar boards make a 15 degree cut with the use of your table saw. These are going to be used to make up your bucket sides. Cedar boards are a good choice because as time passes, cedar takes on a nice silver shade. Cut carefully at 15 degrees so that the boards will be able to come together to form a circular shape.

Step 3: If you want your bucket to have handles, drill in two holes on one end of the boards. Otherwise, if you prefer just a bucket then you can omit this step.

Step 4: Gather the 12 cedar boards and place them together. If they were smoothly cut they’ll come together nicely. Place the 2 cedar boards with holes at opposite ends. Lather on wood glue on each end where the boards come together. Use the ratchet lamps to hold the bucket sides together. Wipe off excess glue with a damp cloth. Let the glue dry.

Step 5: From the apex and base, measure about 3 inches from the bucket’s base. Place a mark on the circumference using a pencil. Following the marked area, bind the length with a copper band. Using copper bands will provide a rustic look to your home. Nail them in place with the use of a hammer. Each nail should have around 2 inches of space between them.

Step 6: Use the ¾ x12x12 inch cedar board to make up the bucket floor. Cut it and then hammer it in place. You can add the rope in by threading it into the holes found across each other. Apply your varnish of choice.

Guest blogger Amy C. is an interior decoration aficionado and online marketer.  She also likes testing and trying new home and office decorating themes.  In addition to being an interior decoration hobbyist, she enjoys designing calming indoor fountains and glass art.  Amy invites you to browse her delightful collection of glass vases

As one of the most affordable flooring options, polished concrete is swiftly gaining popularity over natural stone flooring in both households and businesses. Besides its cost-effectiveness, polished concrete also provides the same beauty in flooring that other options offer. Listed below are only seven of the many benefits this flooring offers.

Polished Concrete

Polished Concrete

Source – 38841988@N03

1. A major concern regarding concrete as a flooring alternative in homes and businesses is the health risks concrete dust poses to infants and children. However, polishing concrete eliminates this dusting, making it both a safe and clean flooring option.

2. Unlike other flooring, polished concrete does not permit water or other contaminants to penetrate its surface as it is made with resistive materials, lending this option much more sustainability and durability. Polished concrete also reduces the harsh possibility of staining as it allows moisture vapor to escape while causing liquid to pool for an easier clean-up.

3. During the polishing process, the concrete hardens and increases in density with the application of an internal impregnating sealer that protects the concrete from the inside-out, giving the flooring more strength and eliminating the need for a topical coating that requires regular maintenance.

4. Polished concrete, with a highly-reflective finish, greatly complements indoor lighting. The polishing can increase reflectivity by up to 30 percent, allowing for the reduction of ambient lighting levels and, therefore, lowering energy costs.

5. In comparison to natural stone flooring and vitrified tiles, polished concrete is one of the most slip-resistant flooring alternatives one can find without sacrificing luster and shine.

6. Concrete polishing eliminates the resin that burns the surface of a concrete floor, making polished concrete a leading flooring alternative for industries that are burdened by tire marks and other unwanted blemishes.

7. Because polished concrete does not require even nearly the amount of maintenance other flooring does, those who opt for this alternative can expect to save a fortune on maintenance costs.

After reviewing the benefits listed above, one should have a greater understanding of how polished concrete has become a leading alternative in flooring. As one of the most cost-effective and maintenance-free flooring solutions available, choosing polished concrete is simply a smart decision to make. In addition, one can enjoy the financial benefits this option offers without sacrificing visual appeal. Aside from the advantages already addressed, polished concrete flooring is also a more eco-friendly alternative as it greatly reduces the need for energy and materials normally applied toward floor covering.

Guest blogger Anna K is journalist from Australia.She writes for several newspapers about  home improvement topics such as Concrete Polishing,  Epoxy Flooring and several other which attract attention of many readers.

Some people have a creative mind that allows them to turn even a small boring space into something really spectacular. Others avoid doing anything with their deck, patio or yard because they just don’t know where to begin. If this sounds like you or maybe you’re just looking for a little inspiration to get you excited, below are 10 easy ways that you can bring your outdoor space to life.

Outdoor Area

Source – zaneselvans

1. Hanging Baskets – Such a simple thing can really make a dynamic impact. Hanging baskets can be filled with flowers or plants and hung pretty much anywhere you can install a hook for a chain or tie a string.
2. Create Borders – When you have a well-defined space, everything looks neat and organized. You could buy edging or borders or you could simply plant rows of flowers. Seeds are inexpensive, sometimes even free and they will define your lawn.
3. Lighting – Just like in your home, lighting can really change the aesthetic of your landscaping. You can install low voltage lighting if you’re comfortable with wiring  or have power outlets or you can opt for solar lights. These are available in every style imaginable. Set a few lanterns around your patio or hang some from your fence posts.
4. Feed Your Lawn – A healthy lawn is like a gorgeous hardwood floor, a lawn filled with crabgrass and other weeds is like that 70s shag carpet in the basement of your friend’s house that you never want to go barefoot on. Fertilize your grass and leave grass clippings when you mow, they offer nutrients to your lawn and soil.
5. Invest in Tools – A few essential gardening tools will inspire you to work outside. Not to mention, the right tools will allow you to be much more efficient with your time.
6. Add Some Furniture – It can be tempting to pick up a few plastic chairs and call it a day but are you going to want to spend time outside sitting in them? If you are going to splurge on one thing this summer, let it be some comfortable, eco-friendly furniture. This is an investment that you will use for many years to come.
7. Plant a Garden – Who doesn’t love fresh vegetables? You don’t even have to plant an actual garden in the ground either! There are many vegetables that grow quite well in containers or you could build a raised bed. Gardening is very addictive once you start eating your rewards!
8. Mow Smart – The rule of thirds states that you should never mow more than one-third of your lawn if you want it to keep looking spectacular all season. You also don’t want to cut it during a drought, it’s very hard for it to re-cooperate from a cut if it doesn’t receive water for a few days after.
9. Garden on a Slope – Building a sloped garden creates a focal point in your landscaping. These are ideal if you already have a small hill because nobody likes to mow a hill! Use concrete or clay bricks to build a retaining wall and then build up from that with layers of flower beds. It’s a lot easier to do than you think!
10. Maintain Your Grill – The better you take care of your grill, the more you’ll want to use it and enjoy your outdoor space. Clean it properly between uses and think about investing in a cover for it.

This is a guest post from My Garden Hammock A site dedicated to the humble hammock with some great tips on choosing a hammock bed for the garden or even to replace your bed.

Teak outdoor furniture has become increasingly popular as consumers become more aware of the advantages that teak wood has over other materials used to make outdoor furniture. Not only is teak beautiful and natural, it is also durable and resistant to harsh weather conditions including severe rain and freezing. Its natural high oil content helps prevent it from decaying and rotting. Even though it tends to be more expensive than other materials, it may be well worth the price when considering its longevity. It is not uncommon to find heirloom furniture from generations past made of teak wood.

Teak furniture is also gaining widespread popularity due to its style, and it is rapidly becoming a symbol of status and luxury. This furniture has a timeless appearance and gives an elegant appeal to outdoor spaces. This wood is versatile as it can be utilized in making a variety of products including chairs, dining sets, benches, and other accessories.

Teak wood furniture can be hard to find as does not grow abundantly in most places, so beware of imitators. At first it may be hard to tell the real from the imitators, but a little teak wood knowledge can keep you from suffering over a bad purchase later. If purchasing teak outdoor furniture is on your agenda, consider the following tips before buying to ensure that you get the most for your money.

Outdoor Teak Furniture

Source – stephenliveshere

1. Avoid disappointment by making sure that your product consists of 100% teak wood and not other cheap filler materials. Using teak wood with other less expensive products cheapens and weakens your furniture.

2. Look for Grade A teak wood furniture; it is the most superior of teak wood furniture. Teak wood furniture also comes in Grade B and Grade C quality ratings, with Grade C being the lowest quality.

3. Purchase teak wood with a moisture content between 8% and 12%. This low moisture content helps make teak wood more durable and resilient. Wood with improper moister content levels increase the woods rate of decay.

4. Check for knots and smoothness of the wood grain. Furniture that contains many knots is probably made of low quality wood. Grains of teak wood are fine and tightly packed, allowing for a smooth surface feel.

5. Check for warping of the wood. Because teak furniture does not retain much moisture, the wood doesn’t warp – even over long periods of time.

6. Look for a natural colored material. Fresh teak has a yellowish brown tint; old and exposed woods turn gray and silverfish. Avoid items that look too oily.

7. Examine pieces for imperfections, including scratches, cracks, or other damages. Unlike other woods, genuine teak does not chip.

8. Because teak possesses high oil content, it carries a distinctive fragrance. Furniture with no fragrance or artificial fragrances should be avoided.

9. Purchase teak outdoor furniture made of government-regulated, plantation-grown teak to help ensure quality.

10. Make sure that furniture joints and fittings are made from quality stainless steel or solid brass.

Guest blogger Anna K is journalist from Sydney, Australia.She writes for several newspapers about  home related topics such as chairs, rugs and outdoor furniture styles, especially - Outdoor Furniture Sydney style and several other which attract attention of many readers.

Why avoid paying for plumbing -There is never a good time for a boiler to break down, but the middle of winter is generally when this occurs. Homeowners often attempt to fix the problem themselves or attempt to live without until they can’t put up with the problem any longer and are left without any option but to call a plumber. As a homeowner you often feel like there is no other option and have to surrender to the extreme costs that some plumbers charge which can accumulate to hundreds of pounds. Lots of people have stories to tell of their plumbing nightmares, but there is another way to solve your plumbing problems in a cost effective way; by taking plumbing courses.

Appropriate Plumbing Tips

Plumbing Tips

Source – andreakirkby

Most DIY enthusiasts may be able to plumbing a washing machine and dishwasher but how do you make sure that it is done properly? The key points to remember are:

• Ensure both the hot and cold water supplies are properly installed.
• Dishwashers only need a cold water supply.
• You will also need a nearby mains socket that is high enough off the ground encase of light flooding.
• Appropriate location must be dedicated to waste water.

When connecting items like washing machines, its best to ensure that they are connected properly to the back and that the pipes are not “kinked”-because if the pipes are leaking you will not even know it until it is too late ,especially if you have wooden floors.

General plumbing tips will enable you to easily fix most household plumbing problems without costing a thing. You may even find yourself in demand from friends and family members to fix their plumbing problems. In the old days, it was common practice to become an apprentice under an experienced plumber to gain hands on experience, but today there is a need to gain qualifications if you desire to work for a reputable organization. These qualifications can also be used to improve your cv and present to others to certify you are properly trained. The training commonly takes place at home and in training centers where professional first hand advice can be given. All you will need once completing the course is a basic tool kit available from most trade shops.

Fit the home with Solar plumbing – The cost of installing solar panels has fallen over the last few years due to increased popularity and improving technology. We all know that the price of traditional energy sources is rising annually, sometimes even more than annually. Solar energy is now being used as a natural energy substitute to ease the cost of the consumption of non-renewable energy sources.

The idea of heating water by harnessing the sun’s energy has been around for a long time. The process involves cold water being pumped into the solar collectors on the roof which is in turn heated and pumped back into the insulated storage tanks for the household to use when needed.

You and your family can act to lesser your families environmental impact through reducing your carbon emissions and saving you money in the process. This hot water is free courtesy of the sun and your expertise, gained through taking plumbing courses.

About the guest blogger – Looking to take expert Plumbing Courses to help improve your trade skills knowledge and expertise? Trade Qualified offer courses in a variety of trades to help homeowners and professionals prepare for common plumbing scenarios.

The term Butterfly valves is also used to refer to quarter-turn valves where its main function is to control or isolate the flow of liquid passing through the pipes. This type of valve is commonly used in treatment of waste or water specifically in the agriculture industry. This is also one of the most common types of valve that is being sold these days especially because it is quite durable, requires less maintenance, and is made to withstand even heavy duty needs.

When compared to an electric ball valve, the butterfly valve works almost the same. At the center of the pipe, there is a flat disc that has a rod running straight through it that is then connected to the actuator. The actuator is located outside of the valve where, if it is turned, can actually control the position of the flat disc to control the flow. A few rotations can help in controlling the amount of water or waste flowing through the pipes easily.

Butterfly Valve

Butterfly Valve

Source – 21182585@N07

The term “butterfly” is used to refer to the metal disc which can be found on the rod which when positioned to a quarter turn, opens the disc allowing the flow of liquid unhindered. Through a few adjustments on the valve, the flow of the liquid can either be restricted or let loose. This feature is one of the advantages that can be gained when using a butterfly valve especially for industrial uses. Another is the size of the butterfly valves. Compared to other types of valves out there such as the electric ball valve, butterfly valves are far lighter and more compact hence they don’t require additional support when in use.

The best thing about the butterfly valve is that it contains the following: a butterfly disk, resilient seat, actuator, body, packing and of course a notched plate that is used for positioning. Once the resilient seat is added to the body of the valve, compression is added thus causing a seal around the upper and lower points where the stem runs through as well as at the disk edges. If the seat suffers from any damage, the packing provides additional seal around the stem of the butterfly valve for added protection.

Although there are different types of butterfly valves being sold today, the best type is one that is configured for pneumatic control. This type makes use of a gearbox that requires a signal from the operator to both close and open the electric ball valve. The advantage to using this type of butterfly valve is its flexibility since it allows either single or double actuation. In the case of the single actuation, it is important for it to have a fail-safe so that if the power gets cut off, the valve will be able to turn into the closed position. In the case of double action valves, they need signals every time they are being opened or closed since they are not loaded with a spring.

Guest blogger – Anna K and journalist from Australia . She writes for several newspapers about  home improvement and industrial topics such as electric ball valve use and several other which attract attention of many readers.

A toilet fill valve is the contraption that rests in the water tank of your toilet and it controls how much water remains in the tank reservoir and how much water is released into the toilet bowl after you have flushed the toilet. A toilet fill valve is an important part of a working toilet because it controls how much water you use to flush to the toilet and it also manages your water use. When the toilet fill valve breaks, it’s important to replace it with a new on as soon as possible.

How to Replace a Toilet Fill Valve

Toilet Fill Valve

Source – esagor

Prepare the Work Area – First, turn off the water source to the toilet; there should be a pipe from the wall to the lower left corner of the reservoir tank. Close the valve in order to shut off the water. Also, I recommend putting down some towels to catch any spills or leaks. After you’ve turned off the water, flush the toilet in order to drain the water out of the reservoir tank. It’s okay if water is in the toilet bowl; you’re only concerned with minimizing the water in the reservoir tank.

Remove the Old Fill Valve – In order to do this, you’ll need to disconnect several control points. First, disconnect the hose from the bottom of the reservoir tank; you should simply have to loosen a nut at the base of the hose. Some leftover water might spill at this point, so be sure to have a towel ready. Disconnect the small rubber hose that leads to the overflow tube. Then lift out the old fill valve.

Install the New Fill Valve – I recommend cleaning the tank with a rag before installing the new fill valve; you might as well clean up while you are there to prevent future clogs. Next, you’ll have to reconnect the valve stalk at the two control points: the overflow tube (there should be a clip you can use to secure the rubber tube). When you install the valve stalk, make sure to adjust it properly; most new valves will have instructions as to how you can adjust the water level in the reservoir tank. Once that’s done, secure the bottom of the column to the hole in the tank, being sure to install the washer, and then tighten the hose at the base of the tank. Turn on the water, wait for the reservoir to fill up, checking for leaks as it does, and then flush the toilet to make sure the entire flush cycle operates properly.

By-line: – Guest blogger Alvina Lopez is a freelance writer and blog junkie, who blogs about accredited online degrees.  She welcomes your comments at her email Id: alvina.lopez @gmail.com.