Friday, December 26, 2008

Type of Bricks

There are a lot of people who feel the need to remove or replace the bricks on their home. You will find that there are some bricks that are severely damaged. The renovation to rebrick can be devastating to your budget, but you will also want to think about who is going to perform the labor. You will find that there are some parts of the home that will be easy access, like the doorframes or window frames. You will also want to consider a few other things before you call a contractor.

For those who are living in a brick home you will find that there is much to add to the renovation cost. When it comes to the age of the brick, you may have to replace all the wood. This will significantly increase your budget for the rebricking.

You will also find that if your home as any arches like about the doors and windows, you will need to go the extra mile in order to maintain the original integrity of the arch and of the design. You will need to add on at least an extra twenty dollars for each arch. Then you have to consider the masonry labor. Basically, you will need to budget about $400 for each thousand bricks when it comes to the labor.

You will need to note that there are a lot of contractors that have their own masonry people; however, you may need to accept the contractors to sub out the job. You will need to think about all the labor that is involved in this process so that you can keep yourself in the budget. You will also want to consider the fact that there are many people who can do the job.

Type of Bricks

There are a lot of people who feel the need to remove or replace the bricks on their home. You will find that there are some bricks that are severely damaged. The renovation to rebrick can be devastating to your budget, but you will also want to think about who is going to perform the labor. You will find that there are some parts of the home that will be easy access, like the doorframes or window frames. You will also want to consider a few other things before you call a contractor.

For those who are living in a brick home you will find that there is much to add to the renovation cost. When it comes to the age of the brick, you may have to replace all the wood. This will significantly increase your budget for the rebricking.

You will also find that if your home as any arches like about the doors and windows, you will need to go the extra mile in order to maintain the original integrity of the arch and of the design. You will need to add on at least an extra twenty dollars for each arch. Then you have to consider the masonry labor. Basically, you will need to budget about $400 for each thousand bricks when it comes to the labor.

You will need to note that there are a lot of contractors that have their own masonry people; however, you may need to accept the contractors to sub out the job. You will need to think about all the labor that is involved in this process so that you can keep yourself in the budget. You will also want to consider the fact that there are many people who can do the job.

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Landscape Tapestries

Landscape Tapestries are traditional art forms that illustrate the artistic expressions of renowned artists on fabric. The designs are generally weaved on a weaving loom. The weft faced weaving is used to create a pattern or image by using natural cotton or linen thread. At times wool, silk, silver or gold threads are also used to create some special effects. The tapestry artists create the ‘blueprints’ of the landscapes on a cardboard while the tapestry craftsmen weave the scene on the loom.

Beautifying our spaces is an inborn need that we humans are fulfilling since the Stone Age. Initially we started with our caves, which we adorned with our pictographs. This creative trait was further refined and developed into paintings followed by the creative tapestries. The beautiful tapestries graced the walls of palaces and church. These wonderful décor accessories were used to decorate palaces & castles. They added warmth to the cool stone castles and were also a symbol of opulence and prestige. In palaces, tapestries were used to depict Bible stories and showcased the life history of the saints.

Sunday, December 14, 2008

Tips to Correct Leaky Basement From Roof Drainage

When it rains, leaking basement problems can start with poor drainage of the water from your roof. Most home roofs are designed at slopes that allow water from rain or melting snow to drain off and be carried away from your house.

There are some very important tips you should follow to avoid situations that can cause water to leak into your basement from improper drainage of water. First be sure your roof gutter system is properly installed. Then at least once a year depending on how many trees you have on your property you need to clean the gutters from all fallen leaves and pine needles that can clog the flow of the rain water.

This may cause it to overflow in the wrong places. Normally the down spouts on the corners of the roof are where the water flows. The downspouts are directed away from the foundation of the house to avoid a leaking basement from water standing and seeping down the side of the foundation. It is a good idea to purchase 6 to 8 foot gutter extensions to place on the ends of all your downspouts.

Tuesday, December 9, 2008

Stone Setting Types

PRONG SET

The prong is the most popular setting. A prong is a narrow piece of metal that folds over the edge of the gemstone to secure it. A prong setting appears to elevate a stone higher than in other settings, and is used most often with diamond solitaires.

INVISIBLE SET

Invisible setting is relatively new. Calibrated stones with slits are placed into a frame with ridges to hold them in place. No metal appears between any stones. This setting only employs baguettes and princess cuts or a combination of both.

CHANNEL SET

Smaller stones are closely set in a row between two metal walls. No metal appears between the stones. Channel settings often include square and baguette stones. They are frequently used in engagement bands or as side accents to a center stone.

PAVE SET

The word actually comes from the French word to pave because of its paved look. The round stones are patterned very closely together and the only metal visible is what is actually used to hold the stones in place.

Thursday, November 27, 2008

Home Furniture Idea

The idea of choosing home furnishings. Function is the first and foremost criteria for a person to go for bare-minimum furnishings. A person buys a table, chair, bed, cupboard, settee, sofa, bookshelf, curtain, carpet, wallpaper and so on, primarily for utility or function. A bare home, bereft of furnishings, is like a stable or a warehouse, unfit for living.

These are the basic important things of Modern Living Room Furniture . The lifestyle of a person gets reflected in his or her home furnishings. Technology, which has a direct bearing on a person’s lifestyle, also plays a crucial role in the form, content and style of home furnishings.

One is most important furniture for our home is bed . It is necessary for any home . There is many kind of beds but the Platform Bed is much useful for every one. Platform Bed is consist the flat surface on his base. It is much reliable for everyone.

Saturday, November 15, 2008

China's Yunnan Stone Forest

We could only think of forest consisting of mainly flora and fauna. Don't get me wrong because in China, there is a forest that consist of stones. You read it right, this one of-a-kind nature's marvel can be found in the district of Kunming in Yunnan, China. Known locally as Shilin, this region of karst formation covers 400 square kilometers that includes big and small stone forests making it the most important attraction of the entire province.

Research shows that 270 million years ago, the Stone Forest was a shallow sea before. As time goes by, lithosphere elements move that causes the water to retreat and the emerging of these limestone landscapes. Erosion of these elements mainly cause the existence of the modern-day Stone Forest That mainly explains the existence of underground river, karst lake, underground stone forest and other attractions found here.

Speaking of attractions, Stone Forest has a lot to offer it's yearly visitors and tourists. There is the Subterranean Stone Forest Strange Wind Cave, Long Lake, Major Stone Forest Minor Stone Forest and Naigu Stone Forest One of much-awaited events here is the Torch Festival which is held every lunar year of June 24.

Saturday, November 8, 2008

Stone Garden Benches

Stone garden benches are one of the many types of garden benches available for the garden. Garden benches serve the purpose of providing one a place to sit and relax in the garden while admiring its beauty.

Stone garden benches are one of the more sturdy types of garden benches found. They are usually made from carved stone, cast stones or stone slabs, and do not require much maintenance other than an occasional dusting.

Though stone garden benches are considered to be one of the most durable garden benches, it is not a very comfortable type of a garden bench as the seat is as hard as a stone! If you do think of buying a stone garden bench, it is advisable to get a bench of the right size for your use. This is because a four-foot bench may only seat a person comfortably, and two people adequately if they don’t mind sitting close to each other! Those who are just friends had better go in for a five-foot stone bench to avoid any unnecessary complications that may arise.

Friday, October 17, 2008

Cozy Pool Seating Areas

Sitting Around the Pool
Sitting around the pool is a tranquil experience that you can enjoy whether or not you will actually slip into the pool on any given day. There are so many different types of pool seating experiences that you can create with different types of casual furniture. One of the most popular types of pool seating furniture is wicker furniture. Classic in design and classy in style, this will make a great addition to any outdoor patio furniture area.

Other great ideas to consider include wrought iron furniture. Properly treated wrought iron will not be affected by the moisture of your pool and will create a fabulous image for your pool seating area. Other types of outdoor pool furniture, like teak furniture, can also help to create distinctive styles.

For more casual pool seating areas, consider simply dragging your kitchen furniture outside to gain a few extra chairs when a large number of guests are expected. Patio and pool furniture need not be pretentious; you can add on to the fun of any gathering with just a few extra chairs. Lawn furniture such as folding chairs are ideal when you need extra seats as well.

Sitting In the Pool
Perhaps you would like to enjoy the great outdoors - from inside of your pool You don't have to master floating on water for long periods of time - just invest in floating pool chairs. What a better opportunity - surrounded by calm and relaxing water but yet not getting wet unless you want to. Swimming pool chairs can come in hard or soft designs. Deck furniture can also be placed in extremely shallow areas of your pool - those six inch deep splash areas - to combine the comfort of water with the luxury of fresh air.

Friday, September 26, 2008

Enhance Your Interior Flooring

Bricks-N-Stones resurfacing works to beautify and restore your existing interior flooring with Architectural Overlay Systems. Bricks-N-Stones brings you the elegant look of stone, brick, slate and more.

The materials we use are extremely durable and resistant to salt, stain, UV and high traffic. They are easy to clean and virtually maintenance free.

With an endless array of colors and an unlimited amount of designs and patterns available, these finishes can be professionally installed to match and enhance the existing landscaping and surroundings. All this, without the downtime and hassle of tearing out and replacing the existing surface.

These time tested, contractor proven products and finishes have been utilized for over three decades as permanent solutions to industrial, commercial and residential concrete surface defects and deterioration problems.

Thursday, September 18, 2008

Granite Countertop Installation

you need to strengthen the existing template by adding metal rods and plywood on top of the existing cabinetry. This is extremely important because the template would have to be able to support the weight of the granite slab. The contractor will also be able to inform you at this point if there are any specialized tools needed for an easy installation.

To ensure that the granite Kitchen Countertop would last a long time, they should be carefully leveled. The bottom of the stone can have high and low areas and a small error in the installation process can result in areas where grime, bacteria, and liquid can find its way inside.

The granite slab should be cut to its exact measurements with a diamond saw. Contractors also devote attention to the positioning of the faucets, the sink, and the outlets and how to seamlessly integrate the new countertop with existing built-in appliances.

The seams must be perfectly sealed and the edges smoothened for a flawless finish. You may want to have trim inlays installed as well, but don't make any last-minute decisions. You should purchase them from the store at the same time you're shopping for the granite countertop. A penetrating sealer is then applied and the surface polished for a glossy and super-smooth finish.

Professional contractors may cost dollars to hire, but they'll at least save you from the hassle of committing costly errors in such a large project.

Different Types of Fountains


Fountain which is used for home decoration . It is an important aspect for home design .there are deferent type are fountain are used to home decoration but some are more famous fountain which is widely used these are.

The Floor Fountains have a grace and a beauty which is reminiscent traditional ages of Europe. Some of the fountains of floor below are done starting from molded some and glass fiber molded of gypsies alabaster. In all the cases, they are very durable, and they have a beautiful normal completion on them which makes them resemble it the true stone, though they are light. Unspecified among these water fountains of garden will seem large in your external spaces. They do everything the beautiful noises of fountain of water fall which will bring the calming joy to you and your environment of interior or outside during much of years. Some of these fountains of floor can be used inside, all can be employed outside.

The second is Wall fountains . Wall Mounted fountain are you looking for? Contemporary Wall Water Fountain? Indoor or Outdoor Wall fountains? Commercial Use or Home use? Simply looking at all the hanging fountain choices should help the "light bulb" turn on at some point....You may ultimately require a Custom Wall Water Fountain fabricated to satisfy your particular situation.

The other type of fountain is Custom Fountains and outdoor fountains these are the very popular and are used not only for decorative and visual joy, but also for a sensory experience. There is no doubt that a waterfall has great sensory appeal as well as visual appeal. We offer a great selection of waterfalls so that you can bring the sounds of the babbling brook into your home to lull you to sleep each night. There are several different styles so that you can find the one that matches your décor the best. In addition to the great sounds and appearance, ambient lighting will complete the waterfall’s mood setting.

Thursday, September 11, 2008

Granite Countertop Installation

What is needed from you is an approximation of the dimensions of the countertop template. This is for the purpose of giving you an estimated cost of the granite countertop. However, the contractors would still have to go to your place to take their own measurements after you have chosen the particular piece you want at the showroom.

Once the measurements have been taken, you are again invited to the showroom for a final look at the piece your ordered, and some contractors would require 50% of the payment at this point. When the installation has been completed, that's when you pay the remaining balance.

Since you can't cut costs on the installation itself, focus instead on the preliminary activities you need to do before the installation of the granite countertop. You can prep the area by demolishing sections you can manage. For instance, the removal of the sink, the range tops, and the old countertop can be tackled while you're waiting for the workers to arrive.

Before the installation, you need to strengthen the existing template by adding metal rods and plywood on top of the existing cabinetry. This is extremely important because the template would have to be able to support the weight of the granite slab. The contractor will also be able to inform you at this point if there are any specialized tools needed for an easy installation.

Thursday, September 4, 2008

How to Use a Loupe

The loupe is the most essential tool a gemologist or a jeweler should have all the time. One can never say when they might require it. The type of loupe one carries, the way one holds a loupe and handles it reveals lots of things about a person. It is very important to use a loupe in proper fashion to create a good impression in the field. Follow the following steps to view a stone using a loupe:

1- Turn on the light source keep it at comfortable height below the eye level so that the light do not fall on the eyes.

2- Clean the stone thoroughly with a dirt free and lint free cloth and keep it face down either on the cloth itself or the sorting tray. Also clean the lens of the loupe.

3- Pick up the loupe. Insert your index finger into the metal cover and use it for a handle. If you pick up the loupe with right hand then use your left eye to see the stone and vice versa. Though lot of people are comfortable with right hand- right eye combination, I prefer the right hand-left eye combination as I can support the twezeer on the side of my nose . See what suits you best.

4- Pick up the stone with a tweezer gently. Pressing it too hard would make the stone fly off.Hold the stone at the girdle to examine the stone from the table or pavilion.And the see the stone from sideways hold the stone from table to culet. Remember not to touch the stone by hand. Always use the gem cloth.

5- Position the loupe close to your eye, and hold the stone about an inch from the loupe. Be steady and rest the hands on the table you are working on. Initially its best advised to sit and examine the stone. After gaining confidence one can examine anywhere

Friday, August 29, 2008

Online Bingo: The Facts

In the list of activities nowadays, online bingo is one of the most popular because of the fact that it is extremely easy to play and does not need special skills for players to win. The main objective of the said game is to be able to complete the pattern of numbers before anybody else does. Before playing, it is best to do your research on facts about bingo especially if it is your first time to play it.

There are a lot of sites that would offer you the information you need. Sample sites are: bingo boogie, bingo base, etc. You may also check out free bingo sites . After all, the best way to understand how a game works is to have actual playing experience.

When you play bingo over the World Wide Web, the site will select your cards randomly and there are even some sites that will give you more than two cards to play with all at one game. The winning numbers are announced in a speedy manner so you have to make sure that you are able to mark those numbers quickly as well as correctly.

Once you play in bingo sites that aren’t free, you will come across the so called bingo bonus codes that you will receive from a number of websites as soon as you sign up. These codes will then double to amount of money you have deposited via your credit card or debit card. This would mean that you get free money and be able to play more games. Therefore, it is a good idea to join bingo sites that will be able to give you bonus codes. It is best to know more about your chosen websites first before signing up and playing in them.

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Friday, August 22, 2008

Stone Garden Benches

Stone garden benches are one of the many types of garden benches available for the garden. Garden benches serve the purpose of providing one a place to sit and relax in the garden while admiring its beauty.

Stone garden benches are one of the more sturdy types of garden benches found. They are usually made from carved stone, cast stones or stone slabs, and do not require much maintenance other than an occasional dusting. Though stone garden benches are considered to be one of the most durable garden benches, it is not a very comfortable type of a garden bench as the seat is as hard as a stone! If you do think of buying a stone garden bench, it is advisable to get a bench of the right size for your use. This is because a four-foot bench may only seat a person comfortably, and two people adequately if they don’t mind sitting close to each other! Those who are just friends had better go in for a five-foot stone bench to avoid any unnecessary complications that may arise.

Depending on the stone used for the garden bench, the rate of the bench will vary. A marble stone bench costs more than a granite stone bench but the life of both types of stone benches is about the same. The choice in buying the right type of stone bench lies in the hands of the buyer. As far as possible, buy from local stone bench stores. If you see a bench you like in the catalog from another place, it would better to ask the local furniture or garden supply if they can order the bench, and thus save on the shipping costs. Who knows, the local store may deal with the same wholesalers and order the bench for you!

Stone garden benches are considered to be a sound investment to make in garden furniture, if you do not mind its hard surface. Invest in a stone garden bench and live a relaxed life.

Thursday, August 14, 2008

Great Choice for Pendant Jewelry

Boulder opal is mostly sold in opal shops as a free form piece of gemstone. That means that the stone has its own individual shape rather than an oval or a circle or a pear shape which black and white opals are normally cut into.A free form shape will not look like any shape that you recognize but will still be pleasing. Another major difference is that boulder opal will often not be smooth and domed on the top. We call this a cabochon from an old French word which translates to the English word hat. We cut most opals into cabochons because it enhances their color characteristics by allowing the light to enter and exit the stone for maximum effect.

Boulder opal will mostly have an undulating surface of the opal material sitting on a bed or dark brown ironstone. This means that the stone will need to have a jeweler make a special setting for the stone because ready made settings or castings generally come in oval shapes which are made for cabochon cuts of stones and not free form stones.There are two sub types of boulder opal: seam and matrix. Seam opal is found where the opal material invades cracks in the ironstone rock. When the ironstone boulder is broken apart of by running a bulldozer across it or hitting it with a big hammer the rock will split into two parts. The opal will be in each part.

Matrix opal is where the opal runs in a haphazard fashion throughout the rock. So the actual stone is cut and polished with the opal matrix within it. It makes great opal pendants.Boulder opal is heavier than black opal or white opal because it often has the ironstone with it so it makes it a little more difficult to make into some kinds of opal jewelry such as an opal ring or opal earrings. Certainly not impossible to make into anything but for pendants it is ideal and it makes up into large opal pendants as well.

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Tuesday, July 29, 2008

How to choose the best relaxation tool


We have always been looking for new types of relaxation. Of course tastes differ. Some people like doing sports such as swimming or something like that. But if you are not so active it would better to make use of Spa treatments. Here you can be offered a wide range of services starting from Los Angeles style Massage to all kinds of Facials such as Opulence facials in Los Angeles. These spa treatments help to maintain your body and mental health in perfect position. When we talk about relaxation features of spa treatment we must definitely take into account its get potential for releasing stress. Most people visit spas to relax after a long working day. Only here they can sort out their thoughts and take the only right decision.

Also it is advisable to make use of spa treatment as a part of rehabilitation period. It will be a perfect solution to treat back pain or problems with muscles especially when you have to do exercises after you have broken your leg and experience problems with your muscles and bones. So if we sum everything mentioned above we can say that spa treatments can be used for multiple purposes but probably the leading feature is of course its relaxation function.

Choose A Fire Pits

Fire Pits is the containers which is used for containing the fire ,people can burn fire in it. Fire Pits are Portable we can easily carried it with us . Marbles used in Fire Pits which is slate marbles ,slats marbles is very hard and easily beard the pressure of hit .

Their are deferent types of Fire Pits Design are available . One of the most popular design is Chimenea it has the circular size and situated above on the ground and made of the ceramic , it is also called outdoor stove . This design Is Mostly Used

People can choose another the of Fire Pits Design which is in-ground Its is not Portable like Chimenea . These pits start as holes dug into the ground, and then are lined with small walls of stone that extend above the ground. The bricks or rocks insulate the fire from the soil and block the wind. This simple design allows you to build a basic campfire in the backyard, but also gives you a place to set a grill for a few skewers.

These factor are used to home improvement the factor are Fire Pits and Outdoor fountains ,Indoor Fountains there are so many factor are use to improve your home .Home improvement is the term which is used to design our home for look like good and marbels are play the important role in the home design

Wednesday, July 23, 2008

Hot Stone Treatments

There are several forms of hot stone massage offered at most spas. The types range from general massage to massage of specific areas. Hot stone massages are believed to promote relaxation, improve circulation, increase bodily energy, and provide deeper massage than traditional massage techniques. This article explains the different hot stone massage treatments:

General Hot Stone Massage:- Hot stone massage is a specialty massage technique that uses smooth, warmed basalt (volcano rock). It is said to be a deeply relaxing form of massage, and the heat from the rocks is said to help release muscle tension. Before the massage begins, the therapist warms the rocks in warm water. The technique uses the same basic strokes as a Swedish massage; however, basalt stones are substituted for the use of fingers.

Hot Stone Foot Massage :- Hot stone foot massages use the same basalt stones and techniques as a general hot stone massage. The heat in the stones is said to be very relaxing, and it improves blood flow circulation in your feet and legs.

Hot Stone Back Massage:- Hot stone back massage uses the same techniques and has the same effects as a general hot stone massage. The difference is that a general hot stone massage focuses on the entire body where a hot stone back massage focuses primarily on your back. Hot stone back massages are said to be more relaxing that typical Swedish massages because the heat from the stones allows the therapist to massage deeper with less pressure.

Friday, July 18, 2008

Stones Widely Used in Landscaping

• The landscape by the use of sandstone: The basic colors that are used in sandstone landscaping are somewhat in the blends of blue, pink, and buff. These types of stones are generally used in the wall making.

• The Landscape Stone by Slate type: the basic color that are used in this stones by sandstone landscaping are red, green and of black. They have the strong force in waters.

• The Stone Marble in Landscaping: These types of stones are finely grained. The basic colors that are used in this stones are of the pink, yellow, and white. They had the high absorption in water. They are also used in slabs, for walling, and those of paving.

• Limestone: While the other stones had high force or absorption characteristics in water, this stones has low. They are primarily used in walls and those of common shades.

Monday, July 14, 2008

Swimming Pool Drowning Victim

To help keep your children and guests safe in your indoor pool or spa, there are certain fundamentals you should follow to ensure a fun and safe time for all.

Basic Swimming Pool Safety Precautions:
• Learn CPR. This is invaluable if you own a swimming pool
• Absolutely NEVER leave young children unsupervised near a pool or spa
• During social gatherings, appoint and rotate “Designated Watchers”
• Keep a life saving flotation device near the pool at all times. (Do Not use the device as a substitute for supervision)
• Install a fence or barrier that is at least 4 feet tall completely around the pool (It is estimated that widespread use of pool fencing could prevent 50% to 90% of pediatric pool near drownings and drownings)
• Fence gates should be self-closing and self-latching. The latch should be above the reach of small children
• Vertical fence slats should be less than 4 inches apart to keep small children from squeezing through
• Use a pool safety cover
• For indoor pools, door alarms that are unreachable by small children
• Do Not expose young children to spas or hot tubs as they are susceptible to overheating
• Keep all glass containers away from the pool area
• Emphasize the need for constant pool supervision to babysitters

By employing these methods, you will greatly reduce the risk of accidents in your swimming pool or spa. An effective pool fence or barrier prevents children from getting under, over or through. Even though it’s not possible to drown-proof your children, swimming lessons help instill a sense of respect for the water by understanding the potential danger of water.

Friday, July 11, 2008

Cool College Class Ring Stone Effects

long with specifying the metal and the stone and year, now you can also select a special effect for your stone. Stone options add a little more to the cost of the ring. Depending on the jeweler, here's some of the stone effects you can pick from:

-- Astralight stone effect

Astralight is a special option underneath the stone and it gives the stone the illusion of a rainbow beneath it. Astralight can be done on either smooth or faceted stones. It looks really good.

-- Sundance stone effect

The Sundance effect also can be done on either smooth or faceted stones. It is a special effect under the stone that gives the illusion of rays beneath the stone.

-- Encrusting effect

This is where an embedded yellow gold symbol or yellow gold letter is placed into the top of your stone. Encrustings look better on darker stones and are available on the smooth stones. With this effect, you would not want to combine this with either the Sundance or Astralight stone options.

-- Protected emblem effect

This is a symbol or letter design located underneath the stone. This effect works better with the lighter colored stones and is available on smooth stones. You wouldn't want to combine this with Sundance or Astralight either.

I wish you an awesome graduation. It's a wonderful time in your life and your class ring is that something extra you can always carry with you. It serves as a reminder that you "made it."

Wednesday, July 2, 2008

How To Organize Your Kitchen On A Budget

There are many things that you already have in your home that you can use to organize your kitchen. All it takes is a little creativity and imagination.

Old food containers
Yogurt containers are especially helpful for storing small things like corn holders, twist ties, toothpicks, rubber bands, paper clips and push pins. Take a black marker and write down on the lid of the container what is inside. That way you do not have to open it to figure out what you put in the container.

Larger plastic containers from things like margarine work great for helping you organize sauce packets or spice packets. When you use this to organize your kitchen, make sure to store the same kind of packets together. If you have several containers with different types of packets, labeling the side of the container works great.

Glass jars from spaghetti sauce, jelly, olives, pickles or mayonnaise work great for storing items as well. The great part about glass jars is that you can see what is inside so there is no need to bother with labeling them.

Using cardboard as drawer dividers
I have used this one myself before and it works great. Measure the drawer to make sure that you cut the cardboard the right size and then just cut a sturdy piece of cardboard to fit in the drawer. In order to make it look better, wrap each divider in some standard brown craft paper. This is a great way to organize your kitchen drawers and it does not cost a cent.

Wednesday, June 25, 2008

Thin Stone - The Many Benefits

Thin Stone Uses

There are many different uses for thin stone. This type of stone is so versatile that it can be used for everything from creating small garden and pond terraces to placing it on the exterior of the home! The following includes some common projects that may implement this use of this type of decorative rock:

• Creating decorative walls in and around the home

• Privacy gates for the lawn, patio, or pool area

• Lining sidewalks

• Sidewalks

• Adding decoration to doors leading into the home, or within the home

• Lining strong ceilings

In addition to the above uses, there are many other ways to use thin stone in and around the home!

Benefits of Thin Stone

There are a number of benefits associated with thin stone. They are as follows:

• Thin stone is extremely lightweight

• It will not fade or discolor over time

• It is extremely durable

• It requires no additional footings

• If chips occur, the inner core matches perfectly and it is not that noticeable

• It is great to use when you need something for small spaces, or require a lightweight product

• It is relatively inexpensive

• It installs quickly and easily

• Comes in a variety of textures, sizes, shapes, and colors

• It is considered to be the "economic" stone

• It can be used in many areas both inside and outside of the home

As you can see, if you select thin stone for your next project, you simply can't go wrong!

If you are interested in pursing a project that will require the use of thin stone, there are many different places that you can find this type of product. However, you must be very selective in where you attempt to purchase this type of stone. There are many places that will sell "fake" type of thin stone. However, there are places like Halquist Stone where you can purchase high quality products at a fair price.

Wednesday, June 18, 2008

Perfect Brick Ideas

For those who are living in a brick home you will find that there is much to add to the renovation cost. When it comes to the age of the brick, you may have to replace all the wood. This will significantly increase your budget for the rebricking.

You will also find that if your home as any arches like about the doors and windows, you will need to go the extra mile in order to maintain the original integrity of the arch and of the design. You will need to add on at least an extra twenty dollars for each arch. Then you have to consider the masonry labor. Basically, you will need to budget about $400 for each thousand bricks when it comes to the labor.

You will need to note that there are a lot of contractors that have their own masonry people; however, you may need to accept the contractors to sub out the job. You will need to think about all the labor that is involved in this process so that you can keep yourself in the budget. You will also want to consider the fact that there are many people who can do the job.

When it comes to the tearing off the old trim work, you may want to consider doing it yourself so that you can keep the costs down a little bit, however, you will want to consider the fact that you won't have to pay them to prepare the job site. Keep in mind that you will also need to add the digging of the foundation to the list of things needed to be done. Basically, you will need to rebuild the entire wood frame of the house and the main walls of the house. You will want to make sure that you hire those who are within a close bid to the other contractors, because you don't want to have the cheap materials for such a job. You need to make sure that your home is physically sound.

Friday, June 13, 2008

Introduction to Lannon Stone

Lannon is a type of stone that has a rich and interesting history. The stone was originally located in the area that is now referred to as a city located in Southern Wisconsin.This city derives its name from a man of the same name who came to this area of Wisconsin in the early 1800's. There is a widespread legend that this couple saw the rocks laying around on the ground in an inviting manner.

What is Lannon Stone Widely Used For - Lannon stone has been used for many different things throughout history. However, typically, it has been used to construct beautiful homes and unique businesses. In addition to this, this type of stone has been used throughout history in order to create amazing church structures, garden tapestry, and landscape design structures. This type of stone is considered to be treasured by those who have a true appreciation for natural rock and stone structures.

The Benefits of Lannon Stone - There are many different benefits associated with this stone. First, it is a natural stone that does not have to be produced in a factory. This type of stone is natural to the environment and comes in many different shapes, sizes, and colors. Furthermore, this type of stone is extremely durable. This means that it can hold up to a wealth of conditions - whether it is wear and tear or weather conditions. Many crafted homes and done so with the ever-popular Lannon stone. It adds exquisite beauty and style to any area where it is used.

Sunday, May 25, 2008

Natural Stone

Natural stone is a beautiful and powerful material that can add a unique refinement to your project. The elemental component in most of the great architecture and monuments of our past, stone has a classic look of elegance, which can not only connect us with our history, but also with the vibrant and beautiful natural world around us.

When purchasing natural stone it is important that you choose a company which is reputable, and is willing to stand behind their product. We are a well established stone importer and manufacturer located in Long Island, New York. We care about our reputation, and are dedicated to bringing you only the most beautiful building materials for your project. Choose us and you will not be dissapointed in the quality, or the service, that we can provide you.

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Sunday, May 4, 2008

The Stone

A special concert to benefit The Stone by three legends of the New York Underground! Indisputably one of the greatest and most influential musicians in Rock History, Lou Reed has been exploding and exploring new sounds since the mid sixties. Always with a connection to the avant-garde, Lou here teams up with maverick composer/performer John Zorn for a series of improvisations and sound compositions that will surprise and startle even their hardcore fans.

With a special appearance by Laurie Anderson, one of the most original voices of this or any other century, this is one of the most unusual and legendary meetings in the New Music scene. Available online only through the Downtown Music Gallery and Tzadik, all proceeds from the sale of this limited edition CD will go directly to support The Stone. Only with your help can we keep The Stone alive, so be sure to buy all three volumes of these limited edition benefit cds before they go out of print!. There are no refreshments or merchandise at The Stone. Only music.All ages are welcome.

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Monday, April 28, 2008

Tips for Great Roofing Installation

If you are setting out to install your own roof then there are a few things that you have to bear in mind. For starters, you have to make sure that the roof construction is complete and you have all of the gutters installed as well as anything that is going to protrude through the roof such as vent pipes installed.

Next you have to make sure that the type of roofing that you have chosen matches the pitch of the roof. For instance, composition roofing can only be installed on a roof that has a minimum pitch of no less than 3/12. Still one more thing that you need to consider is that if the roof pitch is over 6/12 that you have the right equipment to insure that you don't fall off.

If you don't have an adequate ladder then you should go and rent one before you start, because you will need one. Assuming that you are fully prepared and the construction is complete, fully load your roofing material as close to the ridge of the roof as possible because you are going to work from the bottom up.

The trick is to install your roof without walking on the finished roof as much as possible, which may seem a lot easier than it is. This means that roofing installation is better done with more than one man.

Roll out and staple or nail down all of your asphalt felt after you have installed all of your valley metal and do a good job of nailing or stapling it down. If the weather is hot then you would be wise to wake up early and get started just as the sun is coming up and bring plenty of water to drink.

If you have never done construction work in hot weather then you will find that luke warm water works better then ice water, because ice water will shock your body and make you sweat profusely immediately after you drink it.

Tuesday, April 22, 2008

4 Common Brick Crack Problems on Your Home

Well yield a abysmal animation and relax. You're not alone. Millions of homeowners accept accomplished this gut abstraction activity as well. So don't grab the For Sale assurance just yet! Read these accessible tips to accept what may be accident to your home.

1.) Adjustment Cracks - These accepted cracks usually apparent as a 'stair footfall crack' or a able that accomplish up as it moves angular beyond the wall. Found at or abutting to the corners of the home, addition walls and alcove corners they are accepted and calmly repaired. Just watch and apprehend added movement if the adjustment has not stopped.

Solution: Contact your bounded masonry able adjustment pro to accept these cracks repaired to accumulate water, bugs and reptiles from entering the home.

2.) Thermal Amplification Cracks - A vertical or amount footfall able usually amid in the high portions of the masonry can be acquired by thermal expansion. Bricks walls aggrandize if acrimonious by the sun and if amplification joints are not present, can could could cause cracks. These cracks arise anywhere aural the apparent of the brilliant bank or in abutting adjacency to abutting walls

Solution: Contact your bounded masonry adjustment pro and/or a structural architect for an evaluation. Some cracks are simple for a adjustment pro to appraise and others may crave an engineers assay and testing to actuate the could could cause and acclaim the blazon of adjustment needed.

3.) Animate Amplification Cracks - Another accepted able occurs at the high corners of doorways, barn doors, windows or any opening. The accepted culprit is the animate that supports the masonry aloft these openings. This is due to the circadian and melancholia cogwheel movement amid the animate and the brick abstracts which aggrandize at altered rates.

Solution: Contact your bounded masonry adjustment pro to accept these cracks repaired or caulked. Caulking will move with the abstracts and advice abbreviate approaching cracking.

4.) Bulging or Angled Bank Cracks - Cracks can arise throughout an absolute bank or the bank is bulged, angled in or out or has sunken. This is a austere affair and is usually the evidence of age accompanying abortion or structural abortion due to abnormal accretion of the masonry.

Solution: Contact a structural architect anon for an appraisal and recommended repairs.

Friday, March 7, 2008

What Does a Diamond Appraisal Mean?

A diamond appraisal is used to determine the dollar value of a specific gem. Loose diamonds that are bought and sold by jewelry wholesalers for the wholesale diamond jewelry market are subject to the process of diamond appraisal prior to sale. Diamond appraisal uses four main criteria - known as the "Four C's" - in order to evaluate loose diamonds and determine fair market prices of such precious stones.

The first three criteria are:

- carat: the size of the stone in terms of weight and mass. A modern carat is equal to 1/142nd of an ounce (i.e., a 142-carat diamond weighs one ounce).

- clarity: the diamond's degree of "flawlessness." Virtually all loose diamonds have tiny imperfections, but these are not usually visible to the unaided eye. Virtually flawless diamonds are graded FL. Diamonds with visible imperfections (called "inclusions") are rated "I," and those with "slight" inclusions are rated "S."

- color : For a gem that is technically "colorless," diamonds come in an astonishing number of colors, ranging from pure white to dark brown. Each color is rated from one to seven, with seven denoting the deepest, most vivid colors. Diamond color is caused by chemical reactions with other elements; some diamonds today are irradiated as well in order to increase the intensity of color.

These are objective, quantifiable and easily measured characteristics that are usually determined by a gemologist.

The fourth "C," cut, is more difficult to evaluate. Thanks to technological advances that now allow professional diamond cutters to use lasers and computer aided design, there are well over 250 different diamond cuts available. Most gem-grade diamonds have 57 facets; the way these are done will have a great affect on the results of the diamond appraisal.

Where to Get a Diamond Appraisal

For reasons that should be obvious, any diamond of which you are considering the purchase should receive a diamond appraisal by an independent, third party. Reputable jewelry wholesalers should be willing to have such diamonds shipped to a lab for an appraisal, and you should not pay for and take delivery of wholesale diamond jewelry until you have received such an appraisal and agree to the purchase price.

One thing to keep in mind - especially in these days of economic volatility and turmoil - is that the value of diamonds can change considerably within relatively short periods of time. A diamond appraisal is important for the determination of fair market value, but the exact purchase price will depend on current market conditions

Saturday, February 23, 2008

Vintage Labels on Stone Tiles

It's refreshing to note that gone are the days that countertops and backsplashes have to match. There are no decorating rules. The focal point in your kitchen, wine cellar, bathroom, etc. evolves with adding the personal touches that are close to your heart.

Nothing sets the stage for Vintage comfort like a vintage marble tile mural or marble tile wall display in images and labels borrowed from the past. A new and personalized way to showcase a collection of memorabilia, ephemera, or images.

A marble backsplash mural or wall display makes the perfect complement for antiques, beautiful china, flea market finds, vintage furnishings, garage sales, ephemera, trade show collections, or bottles of your favorite wine or brew.

The images are baked into the marble so the quality of the marble with its shading, nicks, crannies and rounded edges become part of the old world, vintage and European effect.

Perfume Label Art, dated from 1894 - 1905 on Tumbled Marble Tiles, an unusual wall decor for the bath, dressing room, powder room, spa, country club. Alternate plain botticino tumbled marble tiles, or add a few tiles onto each wall. An important trend in decorating is chic and shabby. Perfume labels on tiles would be an important accessory to this theme. Alternate wine label images on tumbled marble tiles to create a wine collectors dream environment.

Looking for something different? Vintage Veggie, fruit or flower seed packets transferred onto marble for a kitchen backsplash, pantry or garden room. Crazy about pets? Vintage cat and dog food can labels on tiles will complete your pets Bark Avenue suite.

A dressing area with old hotel and airline tiles randomly placed on a marble wall as a backdrop for your favorite vintage Louis Vuitton trunk.

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Friday, February 8, 2008

The Growing Popularity Of Black Granite

In today's new homes and in home remodeling, there is hardly a product out there that is more popular at the moment than natural stone. People are using it all throughout the house to add touches of elegance everywhere.

Sometimes they will use the same kind and same color of stone and others might choose to use different kinds in different rooms. The variety of choices available is almost over whelming and it can be difficult to decide which one is liked the best.

There does seem to be one choice that is well liked and that is black granite. It can be found in homes that are displayed in magazines, television commercials, and on internet adds.
It has a unique beauty that can not be replicated by any other stone. Marble can be bought in black as well as granite, but marble has an altogether different look. It is just as beautiful as granite, but is a little more expensive.

A good grade of black granite will not be an inexpensive product either, few natural stone products are, especially in slabs of great size, but there is hardly anything that is more gorgeous to look at when it has been installed.

The sleek black shine of a granite countertop in a kitchen or bathroom is so spellbinding to see. It is immediately a focal point that cannot be denied.
Some of the most common uses for black granite on the inside of a home are for sinks and countertops, but it is also for surrounds for bathtubs, showers, hot tubs, or fireplaces. It can also be used in thin panels for flooring and walls.

Some may choose to use solid micro thin panels for these projects and some might rather use tiles. Adding any of these features to a home using black granite or any other natural stone will add value to a house.

Granite stone can is a common choice of for other types of buildings too. It is very popular for inside or outside of office buildings. Thin panels of black granite can often be seen in professional buildings as walls.

You can purchase columns of granite that can be solid or hollow. These types of columns can be for in office buildings or individual homes for decorative purposes alone or actual structural use.
Granite, black and many of the colors available as well has long been used for monuments, statues, and indoor or outdoor fountains. The fact that it does come in so many colors and patterns is one of the reasons it is one of the most used of natural stones.

Wednesday, January 23, 2008

Think Green Countertops

Countertops Is granite, laminate, quartz, solid surface, or some other material the way to go?

The kitchen countertop has evolved from utilitarian work surface to stylish focal point. Despite granite’s glamour, quartz is better when it comes to resisting spills, scrapes, and heat. And a case for best kitchen countertop can be made for ceramic tile or marble, which offer a variety of color and pattern choices.

Replacing a countertop is a relatively easy and inexpensive way to update a kitchen’s look; you’ll pay as little as square feet of laminate counter. So it isn’t surprising that countertops have outpaced cabinet shipments for the past decade, according to an industry research firm. So if are thinking of Kitchen Remodeling, Bath Remodel or Vanity, why not go CaesarStone and help make it Green?

While granite is still what you’ll see in magazines and real-estate ads, fancier faux materials are giving it serious competition for best kitchen countertop. Quartz, also known as engineered stone, is the fastest-growing countertop surface and is also at the top of our Ratings because of its better stain resistance. Plus, this non-porous blend of stone, pigment, and resin needn’t be sealed like the real stuff.

Quartz has become so popular that its look is being copied. Staron and DuPont now offer solid-surface countertops that look like quartz and are essentially an imitation of an imitation. Still other countertop materials are moving up in the world as their makers vie for a place in your kitchen.

Countertops go green
Made of shredded U.S. greenbacks, ShetkaStone’s Counterfit gives new meaning to the phrase “seeing where your remodeling dollar is going.” PaperStone and Richlite also use paper pulp to create solid-surface counters. Recycled glass is another eco-friendly counter material. IceStone is made from ground-up bottles and concrete, EnviroGlas from recycled glass and porcelain. On the downside for those looking for the best kitchen countertop material, most of those green options are available only through architects and designers.

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