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<title>Latest Articles by rnoel1</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/</link>
<description>Articles at Populate.NET</description>
<language>en-us</language>
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<title>Outdoor Kitchens - A Hot New Trend in Kitchen Designs</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Home/Home_Improvement/outdoor-kitchens-a-hot-new-trend-in-kitchen-designs.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Home/Home_Improvement/outdoor-kitchens-a-hot-new-trend-in-kitchen-designs.html</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 14 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ One of the hottest new trends in kitchen designs and remodeling in general for that fact is the outdoor kitchen and outdoor entertainment centers. The general lifestyle and entertaining habits throughout the US is starting to see some interesting changes. More and more people are beginning to entertain more at home rather than going out.  

Whether this is based on the economy, rising gas prices or the age demographic of the majority of homeowners isn't clear but what is clear is that outdoor kitchens are a really hot trend right now and are actually a really great return on investment.

Depending on the complexity and functionality of your kitchen designs, you can actually make money on outdoor kitchens, as much as 200% or more of the initial cost in some cases.

Currently the national average return on investment for a minor kitchen remodel is around 81% and even less for a major kitchen remodel coming in at only 70% but outdoor kitchens are between 130% - 200% if you do it right.  

So what is doing it right?  What are the major components needed for a really awesome outdoor kitchen?

Today's outdoor kitchens are far more sophisticated than a simple charcoal grill and patio furniture.  Outdoor kitchens today often incorporate a bar and a living/dining room look and feel. 

Just because the kitchen is outside doesn't mean you thrown out traditional design principles...the same design principles still apply and function is still one of the most important considerations. One of the most functional working designs is the kitchen work triangle.

A kitchen work triangle has the kitchen sink in one tip of the triangle, the center of the cooktop or range in another tip of the triangle and the center of the refrigerator in the other tip of the triangle. It might be impossible or simply impractical to achieve this in an outdoor setting, depending on your focal point, orientation and existing structures but whatever layout you decide to go with there are always ways to make it functional. 

If you have a long straight line, an L-shape or a U-shape then consider placing workstations in progression. For example, first place the sink, then next a preparation area, then the cooking area adjacent to that. It's important that there is enough countertop space for prep and serving.

Orientation of the kitchen is another important consideration and should ideally be based on a focal point such as a great view, a fireplace or a swimming pool but if you don't have any of these features you can create your focal point from your space and design planning.

Creating a nice lounging space is important too so incorporating multiple seating areas wherever you can is a big plus.

Easy access to the inside is a key consideration, since most items will have to come from and return to the indoor kitchen. 

Some of the must have features to include in an outdoor kitchen would be of course a grill and cooktop and there are a lot of options ranging from gas and charcoal grills to wood burning ovens.

Then of course any outdoor kitchen would not be complete without a sink and refrigerator but you might also consider a wine refrigerator and if you really want to get all the conveniences then you could also include a dishwasher too...just make sure they are all made for the outdoors.

Some outdoor kitchens even have waterproof flat screen TVs and sound systems. 
 
Outdoor kitchens are not only a spot for family and friends to gather and enjoy good food and good company...it's also a very smart investment in the value of your home. ]]></description>
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<title>LEED Certification in Your Remodeling and Construction Projects</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Home/Home_Improvement/leed-certification-in-your-remodeling-and-construction-projects.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Home/Home_Improvement/leed-certification-in-your-remodeling-and-construction-projects.html</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 14 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ So you're getting ready to remodel your home and you want to go green as much as possible because you're trying to be more environmentally responsible... and you also wouldn't mind saving some money on utilities and maximizing your home's resale value. Where do you start? 

A good place to start for your remodeling and construction projects is with LEED.

What is LEED?

LEED is an acronym for Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design and is a rating system of sustainable green building and development practices. 

LEED is also a nationally recognized, third party certification system and accreditation program conducted by the U.S. Green Building Council that certifies building projects meet high green building standards based on performance and measurable results in five key areas of human and environmental health: sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality. 

When LEED was first created it focused on new construction only but The U.S. Green Building Council and the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) partnered together to create the REGREEN Program, which has created national green remodeling guidelines for existing homes so remodeling projects can also receive LEED certification. 

In the US, our homes are responsible for 21% of our nation's greenhouse gas emissions. In the United States , approximately 4 metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) equivalent (almost 9,000 pounds) per person per year (about 17% of total U.S. emissions) are emitted from people's homes. The three main sources of greenhouse gas emissions from homes are electricity use, heating and waste. 

Formaldehyde is another gas emission from homes. It is emitted from many materials used to construct and remodel a home. Formaldehyde is a colorless gas. At elevated concentrations it has a strong, pungent odor and can be irritating to the eyes, nose, and lungs. Formaldehyde is released into the home from a variety of indoor sources. Some resins, or glues, used to bind wood chips or fibers into plywood, particleboard, and other pressed wood products, contain formaldehyde. Cabinetry and some floor and wall materials are often made from such products.

SOME COMMON SOURCES OF FORMALDEHYDE INDOORS

Pressed wood products: particleboard, plywood, medium-density fiberboard (MDF); often used in cabinetry, and wall and floor materials
Consumer Products: wallpaper, paint, coatings; often a preservative in these and other products
Coatings for Some Cabinet and Furniture Products: acid-catalyzed urea formaldehyde type finishes.
Combustion Appliances: wood stoves, gas appliances, kerosene stoves

Living in a green home means that you're helping to stop the causes of climate change and using green materials and getting LEED certification in your remodeling and construction projects can help you not only be kind to the environment but also be kind to your body and your own personal health and there are also financial benefits to earning LEED certification too. 

When you do a green LEED certification, not only are you doing something great for the planet and receiving environmental benefits like reduced greenhouse gas emissions and health benefits such as reduced exposure to mold, mildew, formaldehyde and other indoor toxins, you can also receive financial benefits such as lower energy and water bills and LEED certified homes may also be eligible for financial benefits such as lower fees for financing and lower insurance rates. ]]></description>
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<title>An Eco Friendly Wood for Kitchen Cabinets & Flooring</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Home/Home_Improvement/an-eco-friendly-wood-for-kitchen-cabinets-and-flooring.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Home/Home_Improvement/an-eco-friendly-wood-for-kitchen-cabinets-and-flooring.html</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 14 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ If you're looking to put in new kitchen cabinets, or perhaps a butcherblock countertop or even hardwood flooring, one of the more eco-friendlier woods you might consider for your kitchen remodel is Lyptus, a premium grade, sustainable, renewable, high-yield hardwood grown on South American plantations interspersed with re-introduced indigenous trees to preserve native ecosystems. Lyptus wood is grown in a responsible style of forest management. 

Lyptus wood is a hybrid of Eucalyptus grandis and Eucalyptus urophylla and is grown in managed forests in Brazil. Each forest is planted on land that was once used for agricultural purposes and barren of trees. The Lyptus trees grow interspersed with other trees indigenous to the region to help preserve the area's native ecosystem and increase biodiversity.

Due to the warm climate in Brazil, Lyptus trees grow quickly enabling forest management professionals to harvest trees in 15 years versus the 50 to 70 years required in colder regions. And Lyptus trees can be regenerated after being harvested, without the need for replanting or disturbing the forest floor.

Cabinet makers and contractors love working with Lyptus citing that it machines well and does not fuzz like Mahogany. It sands well and definitely finishes very well. The look is great and a person would have a hard time distinguishing a finished part from Mahogany, plus you get a little different look than the ordinary wood selections.

The reason Mahogany is so well loved is that Mahogany is strong, beautiful and it has outstanding durability. Mahogany has a very fine and even texture and is a medium density hardwood that is a beautiful dark reddish brown color.

Once so plentiful that it was used as ballasts in ships returning to Europe from the New World Mahogany is now a rare and protected hardwood making it one of the most expensive woods as well, and also since it is in short supply, fewer cabinet manufacturers even offer it in their selections of woods and are instead starting to offer more eco-friendly alternatives like Lyptus and Bamboo. 

As far as density, strength and technical properties go, compared to similar woods, its hardness rating is greater than white oak, mahogany, jatoba, red oak, hard maple or beech. It looks a LOT like mahogany but at a quarter of price.

It accepts all common types of finishing, including water and solution-based lacquers, various types of pigments, and oil and wax. This makes it well suited for diverse high-end applications like furniture, cabinets, flooring and architectural millwork.

Similar to Brazilian cherry, purpleheart and several other woods, the color will turn a rich cherry red and will even-out well.

You can have incredibly beautiful kitchen cabinets, countertops or flooring that look like Mahogany while still being kind to the environment. Lyptus is a great eco friendly wood that should definitely be considered. ]]></description>
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<title>Diffusing Options & Tips for Essential Oils</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Health/diffusing-options-and-tips-for-essential-oils.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Health/diffusing-options-and-tips-for-essential-oils.html</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 14 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Diffusing is simply distributing essential oils into the air so they clean the air and are inhaled. In your home or office, it is an ideal way to help relieve tension, dispel odors, and create an environment of peace and harmony. A diffuser disperses the oils without heating them; therefore, retaining their therapeutic benefits.
 
When you heat essential oils, such as in a candle or diffusers that have a candle burning underneath the well then the therapeutic benefits are completely destroyed and the essential oil becomes simply fragrance. Cold diffusing retains the therapeutic properties of the essential oils so if you want the therapeutic benefits from the essential oils then a cold diffusing method is what you need to use.

The newest technology in diffusers is an ultrasonic diffuser and this diffuser is very high tech and very cool.

The Ultrasonic Diffuser is a essential oil atomizer that can diffuse any essential oil from lavender to sandalwood, which is a very heavy dense oil. Using an optimal frequency of 2,400,000 cycles/second, the Ultrasonic Diffuser atomizes cold water and essential oils, breaking up molecules into a microscopic mist. 

Another style of diffuser is the traditional nebulizer diffuser.  This diffuser consists of an air pump, an oil well base, and a glass nebulizer connected by a flexible air tube. Attached to the air tube is a flow control valve. This type of diffusion works to put the whole oil into the air in the form of tiny droplets.

Another handy diffuser to have is a Travel Fan Diffuser.  

This is a great option for taking with you to a hotel or the office or overnight at grandma's... The Travel Fan diffuses by blowing cool air through an essential oil pad, releasing the therapeutic benefits of the essential oil into the air and allowing the oils to be easily absorbed. 

It is recommended using a timer with any diffusers and setting it to run for about 10 minutes each hour. 

Pour 15 to 20 drops of oil directly into the well approximately one-quarter inch deep. Or, you may wish to place the bottle of essential oil upside down in the well located next to the diffuser, but be sure that the plastic orifice is still in the bottle opening. Now, just turn it on.

How much oil will be used?: 

Thicker oils will diffuse more slowly than thinner ones. You can leave a bottle of thicker oils upside down on the well because it diffuses slowly. Thinner oils should be poured directly into the well because they diffuse quickly. 

Note: Never add water to oils or thin them with another substance. This could clog the jet and possibly alter the oil's effects. 

Changing Oils: 

You can change from a single oil to a blend or from a blend to a single. Simply allow the first oil to be completely diffused. If there is too much oil left to diffuse, use the enclosed eyedropper to return it to its bottle.

Mixing Oils: 

Avoid mixing two or more blends, as this may change the desired results. A single oil may be added to a blend, or two single oils may be mixed together and diffused. Avoid using vegetable oils such a V-6 Mixing Oil, massage oils, or other vegetable-based oils in your diffuser. Oils of this thickness may clog the diffuser.

How long should a diffuser be used?: 

In the home, a diffuser may be used for any length of time-anywhere from 5 minutes to continuous use. Short periods of 5 to 15 minutes are recommended for anyone who is experiencing oils for the first time. In large offices or commercial areas, the diffuser should be used for 15 to 30 minutes at a time until everyone in the area becomes acquainted with the oils. ]]></description>
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<title>Say Goodbye Cellulite with Essential Oils</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Beauty/say-goodbye-cellulite-with-essential-oils.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Beauty/say-goodbye-cellulite-with-essential-oils.html</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 05 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ We are well into summer now and swimsuit season is in full swing. One of the major concerns for practically every woman during swimsuit season is the dreaded C word...cellulite...that lumpy, dimpled, orange-peel texture that seems to target skin on thighs, bottom and backs of arms and is the shame and embarrassment of anyone who has it. 

Cellulite affects nearly every woman as she gets older. Major scientific discoveries have uncovered the factors that cause cellulite.

Although there are three layers of fat under the skin, only the top layer is involved with cellulite. Changes in the connective tissue structure in this top layer of fat, caused by pregnancy, hormonal, structural, vascular changes, genetics and aging, trigger the formation of cellulite allowing fat to protrude deeply into the dermis (the layer of skin beneath the outermost layer), which is what causes the characteristic lumpy appearance of cellulite. 

Hormones secreted in response to stress, particularly cortisol, also encourage fat deposits in problem areas. Pregnenolone is the precursor hormone from which all other hormones are created. It is an important precursor for the body's production of progesterone which blocks cortisol receptors. 

Some of the essential oils that combat excess cortisol are Balsam Fir, Conyza, Fennel, Peppermint and Frankincense essential oils. 

Magnetic resonance imaging studies have shown that women with cellulite have pillar-like columns separating the fat chambers, which are larger and deeper than those in men. These large vertical chambers can store an abundance of fat.

Collagen supporting tissues of men, on the other hand, is more like a criss-cross net that is organized into small diagonal chambers, which hold only small amounts of fat...that's why men typically don't have cellulite. 

Cellulite is mostly related to the underlying structure or framework and relationship of adipose to connective tissue in women. Scientists are now saying that cellulite is a disease of the connective tissue and is the product of extensive connective tissue destruction and that the three main causes of cellulite are excess fat deposition, weakened connective tissue support structure and poor circulation.

Fat storage and breakdown are controlled by two sets of special receptors called alpha and beta receptors on the surface of each fat cell. The beta receptors promote fat loss and are regulated by the hormone epinephrine, whereas the alpha receptors prevent fat breakdown and promote fat storage. 

In the case of cellulite the alpha receptors outnumber the beta receptors. Women also unfortunately tend to have more fat storage alpha receptors than fat breakdown beta receptors in the hips and thighs. 

Increasing production in the body of the enzymes hormone sensitive lipase and the enzyme protein kinase A will help break down the fat cells and release them into the bloodstream and is a key component of helping to eliminate fat and cellulite.

As well as connective tissue degeneration, poor circulation and lymph drainage can also aggravate and worsen cellulite. Exercise can stimulate epinephrine release, which can to some degree help reduce the appearance of cellulite but it's not enough to completely eliminate cellulite. Increasing circulation will help increase lymph flow and also help to reduce the appearance of cellulite.

Here are some essential oils to the rescue that are well known to help with circulation, stimulating the lymphatic system and encouraging the elimination of toxins and water retention, all of which help with reducing the appearance of cellulite.

Because some of these particular essential oils are quite strong, they can be irritating to sensitive skin so it is important, if you have sensitive skin, to dilute them in a carrier base oil such as almond, jojoba, coconut, olive, grape seed or avocado oils. All of these oils are great for the skin. 

Just make sure you are using an organic and expeller pressed oil still in its raw natural state so that its chemical composition hasn't been altered or destroyed and that its skin nurturing properties are still in tact. 

Most all oils when heated past 103 degrees Fahrenheit, with the exception of grape seed and coconut oil, are destroyed, change chemical structure and can even become toxic. A good rule of thumb is if you shouldn't eat it then you shouldn't put it on your skin because the skin will absorb it into the body.

So here are the essential oils that will help reduce the appearance of cellulite:

Juniper (Juniperus osteosperma and scopulorum)- Has been used for centuries as a diuretic and is excellent for relieving fluid retention. Renowned for its detoxifying and purifying ability, Juniper essential oil clears waste, promotes excretion of toxins and increases vascular circulation. 

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)- Rosemary increases warmth and stimulates blood circulation and is especially useful for circulatory problems of extremities. I stand on my feet for long periods of time and when my legs and calves swell up, rubbing Rosemary essential oil on them relieves the swelling and edema in about 2 minutes. It's really incredible for combating fluid retention and lymphatic congestion making it very effective for cellulite and obesity (and great for keeping the legs from swelling up during air travel as well).

Cypress Essential Oil (Cupressus sempervirens)- This essential oil is most used for the circulatory system as it improves circulation and strengthens blood capillaries. It also helps in fluid reducing. It is excellent for varicose veins due to its vasoconstricting effect.

Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens)- Excellent for all skin types due to its ability to balance sebum. It improves blood flow, is a liver and pancreas stimulant and dilates the bile ducts for liver detoxification. Geranium essential oil also helps to balance the hormones.

Lemon (Citrus limon)- Lemon essential oil is stimulating for the circulatory system and improves microcirculation, strengthens vascular tissues, it is used for treating varicose veins by improving circulation and relieving pressure on the veins (together with Cypress essential oil in a 1 to1 ratio).

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)- Lavender oil may also be used in the treatment of stretch marks.

Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi)- Relieves congested and oily skin, having a toning effect on both skin and tissues. For this reason it is a good oil to use when treating cellulite. 

Orange (Citrus sinensis) - There is some resemblance between cellulite skin and that of an orange peel and that might be one of the first clues that Orange essential oil is an exceptional oil for reducing the appearance of cellulite. Orange essential oil is a diuretic and is great for relieving fluid retention, it also softens the epidermis, stimulates blood circulation and lymph fluids and is very helpful in treating swollen tissue.

I have mixed equal parts of Orange, Lemon, Cypress and Juniper essential oils and massaged these oils straight into my skin with no carrier oil but adding a few drops of base carrier oil might be a good idea if you have sensitive skin. I noticed a huge difference in the appearance of cellulite within about half an hour.

PLEASE NOTE: The information in this article is based solely on the use of 100% Pure Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils due to their high quality and tested purity. The use of a brand of uncertain quality and/or purity will provide you with potentially dangerous, if not lethal, results. The author assumes no responsibility for your improper use of this information.

The statements about these oils and supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These oils are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. ]]></description>
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<title>Remodeling Houses - A Trend Here to Stay?</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Home/Home_Improvement/remodeling-houses-a-trend-here-to-stay.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Home/Home_Improvement/remodeling-houses-a-trend-here-to-stay.html</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 04 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Many people are wondering now, with the economy the way it is at the moment, just how the remodeling industry is going to fare. With remodeling costs up and housing prices down, the return on investment recouped from a remodeling project is considerably less than it used to be. So how will this affect the remodeling industry?

With the loan industry tightening up, and credit harder to qualify for, many people are finding it as difficult to qualify for a home equity loan or home equity line of credit as it would be to qualify for a new mortgage. Still, however, for many people, remodeling is still a better option than moving.

Think about this: there are approximately 130 million homes in the US and their average age is over 31 years old. As these 130 million homes continue to age, maintenance, repair, renovation and remodeling will be required. 

With global warming continuing to increase, the need to make a home more energy efficient is a major priority both for personal comfort and for resale appeal. Things like putting in insulation and energy efficient windows, and air conditioning for homes that weren't built with AC are becoming necessary. 

Other things, such as the need to fix a leaking roof, or other items that are in disrepair will still be remodeling and home improvement projects that homeowners will have to do. The bottom line is that work that needs to be done usually gets done and as homes continue to age there will also continue to be plenty of things that need upkeep, repair and remodeling.

Remodeling though is not always just about maintaining your investment, often remodeling and renovating are emotionally motivated. The home is a very personal place and reflects your personality and design and way of living. Also with gas prices and the economy the way they are at the moment, many are doing more entertaining at home instead of going out.

Some of the biggest trends in remodeling now are actually exterior remodeling, including the addition of decks, patios, outdoor living rooms with fireplaces and Jacuzzi's, outdoor entertainment centers complete with even flat-screen TVs believe it or not and then obviously outdoor kitchens are a really hot trend at the moment and even pizza ovens too.

No matter what stage the economy or housing market is in, remodeling is something that will always need to be done by many many people for a multitude of reasons and is definitely here to stay. ]]></description>
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<title>Glass Kitchen Sinks...Are You Crazy?</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Home/Home_Improvement/glass-kitchen-sinks-are-you-crazy.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Home/Home_Improvement/glass-kitchen-sinks-are-you-crazy.html</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ I've recently stumbled across another really cool new product on the market...glass kitchen sinks... yes...you read that right...for the kitchen! Glass has been used as a material for bathroom sinks for quite a while now but never really as a kitchen sink material...until now. 

My first reaction was WOW! Then my second reaction was "Are You Crazy?" Understandably one of the main concerns anyone would have would be about durability. The main questions obviously are how will a glass kitchen sink stand up to changes in water temperature and chemical cleaners, not to mention the shock of physical objects dropped into the sink itself? Who would want a kitchen sink you have to handle with kid gloves? 

Some companies offering glass kitchen sinks have addressed these issues and have come up with a material that is a unique form of borosilicate glass. Borosilicate glass is the oldest glass known to show high resistance to sudden temperature changes. In fact, borosilicate is the glass of choice for refrigerator and oven cookware. 

It first came into commercial prominence when Corning marketed a type of borosilicate glass known as Pyrex. The glass material these companies have come up with is non-porous and non-absorptive, making it impervious to the common elements as well as to many chemicals and liquids. It is exceptionally resistant to abrasion and surface scratches, and it is fatigue-proof.

These sinks can withstand repeated temperature changes between 0 and 212 degrees Fahrenheit without damage and are highly resistant to chemical corrosives and can be cleaned with any commonly used household or commercial strength product. They also won't become cloudy or rust over time.

The companies offering glass kitchen sinks claim their glass sinks require no more special treatment than a standard porcelain sink and say they are tough enough to withstand the wear and tear of everyday life while remaining beautiful. Realistically, however, a heavy object such as a cast iron or soapstone pot will crack a glass kitchen sink, just as it would a porcelain sink. 

Personally I would still probably consider them for a prep sink or a bar sink. I'm still not entirely convinced about having the main kitchen sink be made out of glass because I do need a sink that will stand up to heavy pots and pans abuse but I think this is a really great idea and this gives a whole new array of options and possibilities in kitchen designs. 

It might be perfect for someone who doesn't cook a lot or for someone like a friend of mine who uses her dishwasher as a filing cabinet...But I still think it's a really cool product that's definitely worth checking out. ]]></description>
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<title>Colorful Ideas for Kitchen Designs</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Home/Home_Improvement/colorful-ideas-for-kitchen-designs.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Home/Home_Improvement/colorful-ideas-for-kitchen-designs.html</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Color touches us on a very deep intuitive level. Whether you realize it or not, colors speak very loud to our subconscious and have a positive or negative reaction within 90 seconds. 

The colors you select for a room will impact you on a very deep level every time you spend time in that room so consciously choosing the colors for a room with this in mind is very important.

When it comes to selecting the color scheme for your kitchen designs whatever color palette you decide to go with a good guideline for using color is to have a 60-30-10 split between three different colors. 60% representing the main or dominant color, probably on the walls or kitchen cabinets, 30% of a secondary color used in the flooring or rugs, as well as window treatments and 10% for accents such as, dishes, artwork, pillows, curtains and such. 

A monochromatic color scheme is when you use various shades and tones of the same color. You can still use the 60-30-10 rule here.

Complimentary color schemes are when you use two different colors that are opposite to each other on the color wheel such as red and green, blue and orange and yellow and purple, etc.

An analogous color scheme is when you use three colors that are adjacent to each other on the color wheel in either the cool or warm colors. Some examples would be color combinations such as green, blue and purple or yellow, orange and red.

The neutral tones include browns, beiges, taupes, black, whites and grays. These tones provide a flexible neutral background for furnishings and can be paired with almost any color as an accent.

The color scheme is not just what colors you paint on the walls but also include your kitchen cabinets, your kitchen countertops, your kitchen appliances, the flooring material and your kitchen backsplash. It also includes your rugs and curtains and hand towels, plants and artwork. The kitchen cabinets will probably be your biggest span of color throughout your kitchen designs and would probably represent the main dominant color in your 60-10-30 color split. 

Kitchen cabinets are usually, but not always, a neutral color, so you have more freedom in choosing the color palette because neutrals go with most anything. The brightest or most dramatic color in the color scheme is where the eye will go first so you'll want to make sure it is worthy of being the focal point and where you want to draw attention to. ]]></description>
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<title>A Very Cool Solution for Homes without AC</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Home/Home_Improvement/a-very-cool-solution-for-homes-without-ac.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Home/Home_Improvement/a-very-cool-solution-for-homes-without-ac.html</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Many homes, especially the older ones, weren't built with central air. Today with global warming having air conditioning is not just a luxury but actually a necessity. Many climates that used to be mild are now experiencing record heat waves on a regular basis. 

Homes that didn't put in air conditioning frequently didn't pay much attention to insulation and energy efficiency either resulting in more difficulty in keeping the morning cool air temperatures inside the home as the day wears on. So now, especially since it's summer and things are heating up, many are looking at installing air conditioning and other cooling and insulating options.

Installing central air conditioning can be a major expense. Installing dual and triple zone air conditioning can be even more expensive. My sister and her husband both work from home and they didn't have air conditioning in their home when they bought it so one of the first things they did was to have central air conditioning installed. 

Unfortunately they let themselves be talked out of installing dual air conditioning and decided to just have one unit for the entire home. What they found out was the temperature between the first and second floor is about 20 degrees different and they spend all of their time upstairs in their offices so things are kind of miserable. 

They have to turn the air on so cold downstairs that you need a jacket just so that the upstairs air temperature will be bearable. And their electricity bill is through the roof in the summer.

So what are their options at this point? Well they could redo the central air conditioning to make it dual zone at considerable expense, they could use the energy efficient window film to help cut down on solar heat at a minimal expense but it probably wouldn't keep things as cool as they would like or they could install a window air conditioner but they can be noisy and block light and also don't really cool that well.

So here's a midrange solution that can work very well for any home: Ductless Air Conditioners.

Ductless air conditioners, also sometimes known as mini split air conditioners because they are similar to a regular ducted central air conditioner, but on a smaller scale, are more expensive and than window air conditioners and do require an HVAC professional to install it but are far less expensive and less complicated than installing central air conditioning.

If you currently do not have air-conditioning, or if you have a central system that does not cool well, adding a ductless air conditioner provides better comfort than a window unit. It is quieter and more efficient and has more cooling capacity.

The compressor unit is located outdoors and a cooling unit is mounted high on a wall or ceiling. You only need a hole in your wall about 3 inches in diameter for the coolant, electricity and drainage lines. Since the compressor is outside the ductless air conditioners are very quiet. 

There are a lot of options for air vents and they can be mounted on walls or the ceiling.  Normally you will need one air handler per room but if your home has open areas you may be able to get away with using one air handler to cool multiple rooms.

This is a very cool solution that won't break the bank and can be done fairly easily and quickly without a lot of mess or expensive renovating. ]]></description>
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<title>A Home Improvement & Maintenance Checklist for Your Home</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Home/Home_Improvement/a-home-improvement-and-maintenance-checklist-for-your-home.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Home/Home_Improvement/a-home-improvement-and-maintenance-checklist-for-your-home.html</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 01 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Your home is a big investment...probably one of the biggest investments you'll ever make so properly maintaining your investment is vital to keeping up it's value. But homes are much more than an investment...they are where we take shelter and spend much of our time in and are our living environment and to a degree determine much of our quality of life.

The health of a home is a lot like our own personal health. If it is regularly checked and maintained, the chances of problems arising are less. With proper home improvement & maintenance, if and when problems do occur, there is less chance that they will blossom into major problems.

So here are some of the things that should be checked periodically

Water leakage:

Water leaks are really serious trouble and should be remedied immediately before they become major issues and cause some serious damage. Water leaks can not only lead to toxic and costly mold issues but can also damage walls and sub flooring and other items in your home. 

Water leaks can be caused by prolonged rain, heavy snowfall, old water hoses from appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers, icemakers, air conditioners and garbage disposals. 

Water leaks can also be caused by frozen or corroded pipes, clogged drains, damaged and cracked seals from extreme heat or cold, heavy usage and a multitude of other reasons as well. 

Some of the items to check for leaks are obviously the areas most prone to leaks from heavy use such as the caulking and grout in the bathrooms around the toilets, tub and shower area, under sinks in the bathroom and in the kitchen. Any water damage marks on ceilings or walls will obviously indicate a water leak from somewhere and should immediately be checked out and repaired.

Inspect your plumbing water lines and waste lines for leaks, damage or corrosion. If you notice problems, hire a licensed plumber for further inspection and repairs. You should also check around your water heater for any pooling water. Water heaters should ideally be periodically drained to remove any sediment. In areas with hard water, you should drain every 3 months. 

Vent exhaust ducts for the clothes dryer and cooktop to the outside and keep the drip pans from your air conditioner clean and the drain lines unobstructed and flowing properly. In the kitchen you should clean the dust from refrigerator condenser located at the rear of unit.

Keep indoor moisture low (ideally between 30-50% relative humidity). Consider purchasing an inexpensive humidity meter, available at local hardware stores. Periodically inspect your foundation walls and floors for cracks that might allow water seepage, especially if you live in an older home or an area with poor soil drainage. If you have a basement or crawl space prone to leaks or flooding you might want to keep a sump pump handy.

You should also inspect your roof and roof flashing periodically for missing, worn or broken shingles and any flashing that may have separated from adjacent surfaces allowing water leakage. A licensed roofer can inspect these areas and make necessary repairs. You should also inspect your gutters and downspouts and remove any debris to assure unobstructed water flow away from the foundation.

Additional Items:

Some exterior items that should be on your home improvement & maintenance checklist are the veneering and siding. With brick, watch for deteriorating bricks or masonry. For siding, watch for warping or rot. Check caulking around doors and windows, glazing around window panes. Make sure your cooling and heating unit is free from obstructing debris. On the heater change the filter and check the coils for any buildup. 

You should also get periodic termite inspection done. Check for any evidence of termites or wood eating insects. Watch for accumulation of tree limbs, branches, debris that can attract wood eating insects. And if you have a wood burning fireplace never store wood in or near the home as the wood often contains termites. ]]></description>
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