Considerations For Great Basement Bathroom Design

Do you have some extra room in the basement that's not being used? Thinking about installing a bathroom? It's a great idea, since many older homes were built with only a single bathroom. Installing a new bathroom in your basement is a lot more convenient for families and guests, and it's not as hard as you might think. However, you'll need to make sure you pay attention to a few important basement bathroom design factors. That'll help you be sure that you're getting the most out of your space, and you'll be able to avoid unexpected problems later.

The first thing to do is look at the space you have available and pay attention to your available utilities so that you can lay out your basement bathroom design. You'll want to locate the bathroom such that it's close to plumbing and electrical wiring, so that hookups will be inexpensive and simple. As long as you've got access to electricity and plumbing, you'll be able to put together a space that works well and is pleasant to be in.

Many people choose to position their basement bathroom directly under the one on the upper floor, because everything is already set up. This is the best choice, but if you can't do so because of layout concerns, try to get yours as close as you can. Once you know where in your basement the bathroom will be located, it's time to get out your pencil, paper, and design skills. Make sure that your basement bathroom design takes fixture size and shape into account, leaving plenty of room to move around and add storage if that's needed.

You'll want to decide whether or not you want a full or half bath. Full baths include a shower or tub in addition to a sink and toilet. They're a lot more convenient, but not all basements have the space or are conducive to bathing. If the room tends to be chilly or won't deal with the additional moisture well, you may wish to skip the shower or tub. If you do install a tub, think about things like warmth, water-proof flooring, non-skid mats and wall tile in addition to your other design concerns.

Like any other bathroom, your basement bathroom design will need to take your routine and budget into account. However, there are a few things about building a room like this in the basement that you may not be expecting. Lighting, for instance. Basements don't usually have many windows to provide lighting in the bathroom, so you'll need to make sure there's even, inviting, bright lighting in the bathroom itself and along the path to it. No one wants to wash up in a cave, after all. There's also plumbing to think about - a bathroom that's below your existing pipes may need special plumbing mechanisms to get rid of waste water. These aren't hard to install, but they cost more and may have their own special requirements.

Adding a basement bathroom to your home is a relatively simple home remodeling project. Just remember to put a lot of through into your basement bathroom design before you get started. That way, you'll be able to avoid problems, stay under budget, and get a bathroom that's pleasant and functional, too.

Thomas Johnsen is the Author and Leading Expert on Basement Bathroom Designs and the creator of the publication Basement Bathroom Design. Visit the site now to find the easy-to-understand step-by-step guides on basement bathroom construction available online today.

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Putting God on Trial

I was listening to something interesting the other day when someone mentioned putting God on trial for some of the atrocities in the world. If God is the creator of the universe and all that is, or all that ever will be, how can we put him on trial, he's our creator. We can't put our spiritual master on trial can we, he'll just escape anyway if we convict him, won't he. He's got to be smart enough to break out a prison.

As a child I often thought about God and why he would allow such suffering throughout the world. It never made sense to me when I was child and it still doesn't make sense to me today. Why would the creator, want us to suffer, with even the littlest of problems. Other religions have explained it as if God was teaching us a lesson and that's why we have hardships in our lives.

Do you think God ever went through these hardships? Did God have problems finding a job or gathering some food? Does God even eat? Okay now I'm getting off the topic here,(I wonder what God does eat)... if children do something wrong, most of the time their parents will discipline or correct them. If adults to things wrong, the government will discipline and reprimand them. Sometimes these punishments can be severe. It depends on the crimes committed.

If man has to be put on trial for committing crimes like murder, genocide, and general atrocities towards mankind, should God also be put on trial or is he above man because he's God. I can't imagine the creator of the universe ever being put on trial for man's crimes against humanity or other men, but it seems like someone who is all powerful and all knowing could help his children out of this little mess that we're in today.

Couldn't God help us like we help our children. We as parents might not have all the answers, but we do not claim to have them. We are not all powerful and all knowing, like we would assume God to be. When is God going to help us solve some of our major world problems, like genocide and starvation.

Putting God on trial might not solve all of our problems today but it would be nice to have some help with our problems. If he created us to please him, do we have to go on trial one day, for all the things we did or ignored while we were alive. Something to think about isn't it.

Greg Vanden Berge is a published author, internet marketing expert, motivational inspiration to millions of people all over the world and is sharing some of his wisdom with experts in the fields of writing,marketing and personal development. Check This Out What Happened to the Wise Men's Gifts

Greg is currently working on a video library filled with great movies on a wide array of topics, like religion, self help and spiritual changes in the world.

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Where to Buy Replacement Windows

I have been asked several times about where to buy replacement windows. This question has come from people located in different parts of the country. Well I normally provide a simply way to find the best within a few miles from where they live. Read this article right to the end and you will learn some of the tips I usually provide.

You can purchase them from a variety of manufacturers. These include Amerimax, Simonton, Milgard, Pella, Andersons to name a few. These have different window options that they sell through distributors and retailers located in various parts of the country.

Let me quickly walk you through some of these companies and their resellers.

Amerimax

This is a manufacturer of various building products, which includes our product of interest. You can also buy their products from their sister company called Berger and if you are in Canada you can buy their products from Euaramax, which is also a sister company. They basically are found in most hardware stores and home centers around the country.

Simonton

You can buy these from almost anywhere in the US. For example if your zip code is 10001 then you can purchase them Park Avenue Building Supply, 2074 Atlantic Avenue Brooklyn , NY 11233 or Richmond Aluminum Supply Inc. 26 Watchogue Road Staten Island , NY 10314

Milgard

This company has manufacturing facilities all over the country. These include service locations in Temecula and Dixon, California; Denver, Colorado; Salt Lake City, Utah; Phoenix, Arizona; Chicago, Illinois, Marysville, Washington; Portland, Oregon; Las Vegas, Nevada; Sacramento, Hollister, Simi Valley, and Fredericksburg, Virginia. If you can't find them anywhere you can call them and they can gladly direct you to a store near you.

Pella

Pella replacement windows are available at the The Pella Window & Door StoreSM, Lowe's Home Improvement Centers, or Lumberyards & Dealers - in your area.

The best solution on where to buy replacement windows:

Simply visit: http://www.findreplacementwindowcompanies.com and follow the easy step-by-step guide to help you find the best within your area

You can also click here - replacement windows for instant access to a list of pre-screened contractors that can recommend the most suitable window for your style of home, weather conditions in your area and based on other important factors that you may not be familiar with

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Copper - Still the Metal of Choice For Heating and Plumbing

Industrial professionals, plumbers and most other machinist professionals in the United Kingdom list copper as the metal of choice for most fabrications. Historians can date the use of copper as far back as ten millennia and believe that only gold and iron were used before copper was discovered. The natural colour of Copper is red, though over time its colour can shift into green.

Copper has been used for a variety of different electrical devices within heating and cooling systems as well as for the pipes that service a house and its use has been common place for almost one hundred years. Recently, professionals in the copper mining industry have begun to raise the price of copper because they are frightened that the world's copper supply will not be able to meet the demand for the metal.

Copper is most commonly used for water pipes though United Kingdom manufacturing professionals have also begun to use it for the transportation of natural gas. This metal is the standard by which other industrial materials are judged and there isn't a single building code that doesn't allow the metal to be used. This is a durable and strong metal and scientists believe that it also has elements that stifle the growth of bacteria on its surfaces while simultaneously protecting humans and larger creatures from germs and other harmful substances.

Copper has proven to be one of the most versatile materials in the domestic plumbing industry. This metal can carry natural gas and water and is non corrosive and resists deterioration. There are many UK based companies that are so sure of copper's strength that they offer fifty year warranties on all materials that make use of the metal.

Domestic heating professionals in the United Kingdom have declared that the best heating systems that can be installed are radiant heating systems. The best metal for underfloor heating is copper. This is because copper pipes do not leak and the risk of household structural damage is minimal. Home owners all over the UK agree that underfloor heating is the best way to heat a home and the most cost effective method on the market.

Copper has also proved very useful in cooling systems because it can distribute cool air as easily as it can warm air. Manufacturers have begun using copper in cooling units with massive success. Copper works to increase the lifetime of the machines as well as their effectiveness.

Finally, copper has a reputation for being "green." The metal lasts for decades and easily recycled. Copper can also help people fight diseases while increasing their resistance to high cholesterol levels and coronary heart disease.

Tal Potishman, editor of Heating Central, writes articles about boilers, central heating, Forest Hill plumbers, underfloor heating and solar thermal. He specializes in helping save money by advising on efficient heating.

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Removing Interior Walls

Here's a word of advice for any contractor, Carpenter, handyman or homeowner that is planning to remove an interior wall from your home or someone else's. Beware of removing interior walls, to eliminate your fears of the house collapsing. Some of the interior walls inside of the house are important structural components of the building.

Some of these walls hold up floors, roofs and other loadbearing sections that could create safety problems within the structure of the house itself. This is an area where an expert with framing skills should be consulted. What is the definition of someone with excellent framing skills? Some one with at least 10 years as a master framing carpenter.

My home building experience consists of three decades for over 30 years of assembling some of the most difficult sections of a home. During these years I have seen damage done to houses from removing structural interior walls. Most of this damage could be repaired with a little structural engineering. Some of the damage could not be repaired and caused other damage to different sections of the house. The damage caused in some cases to the floor and the roof framing had to be completely rebuilt.

I'm not telling you about every single thing I have ran into but you would be surprised if I started to make a list of all the homeowners and professionals in the building industry or home selling and buying business that contacted me to remove a structural component of a building. There have even been a few of these people that told me everything was going to be okay just go ahead and remove the structural building component.

Needless to say I would leave these people very irritated but I'm sure they found someone to do the job. The bad news is I was normally the person they would hire to go back and repair the damaged building after these people were gone and out of business. There have been cases where people have removed an interior walls against my better judgment and over the years of driving by in these homes I personally got to witness the structural damage that was occurring on the outside of the house.

I have no idea what the inside of the house looked like but could only imagine. My advice again when removing interior walls is to hire an experienced contractor or at least get some advice from an experienced framing carpenter. This does not include your basic know it all that has basic construction experience like your father in law, parents, friends, golfing associates or people you work with that tell you not to worry about it, just do it, everything will work out just fine.

Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors. He is currently working on more Building and Remodeling Library and adding useful content to help solve problems created by the lack of construction knowledge in the building industry.

Visit us and get more information on building and remodeling your homes and What Does A Shear Wall Do

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Is it Worth the Cost to Make a Home More Energy-Efficient?

Making a home more energy-efficient will be worth the investment, especially over time. Not only will you be doing your part for the environment, you could save hundreds, even thousands of dollars on utility bills over the years you stay in your home. And, an energy-efficient home is much easier to sell when the time comes.

You might not want to just launch an effort to make your home more energy-efficient in one fell swoop, but as you make repairs, do upgrades and maybe do a little remodeling, the small additional costs will be recouped faster than you might expect. After all, some of the things you can do to make your home more energy efficient dont cost much at all, especially if you are upgrading anyway.

For example, adding weather stripping to doors and windows will probably cost you less than $50. You could save more than that in the next year in reduced energy bills because your home is losing less heated or cooled air. Installing window film on your east- and west-facing windows will probably cost you less than $100 if you do it and less than $250 if you have a professional do the job. It will reduce your heating and cooling bills and prevent fading of your carpet and furniture caused by intense sunlight saving more than your investment in one or 2 years.

Switching from incandescent light bulbs to compact fluorescent bulbs will cost you a little more when you first buy the bulbs, but you will save on electricity and you will replace the bulbs far less frequently.

Adding storm doors and windows will save on both heating and cooling costs by reducing the amount of conditioned air that is lost and reducing the amount of outside air that sneaks in. If your budget is tight, you can try doing what our grandfathers did when they wanted storm windows make you own storm windows. You just need a little lumber, a few nails and some heavy plastic.

If you are replacing appliances, it is worth it to insist on energy-efficient models and options, such as vent-free moisture sensing dryers, front loading washers, and refrigerators with through-the-door ice and water. If you are replacing a water heater, an attic fan or a heating/cooling system, you can certainly buy replacements that are more energy-efficient. You might replace your water heater with either instant water heaters or a solar water heater; replace an electric attic fan with a solar-powered fan. Replace your heating and cooling equipment with a single, energy-efficient heat pump. To really save, try choosing a programmable zoned system with timers that allow you to control the temperature in various parts of the house according to your familys needs. Replacing a toilet? Choose a dual-flush toilet to save water usage.

When it is time to replace your roof, choose a metal roof for your replacement. Metal roofs are less expensive and very energy-efficient. If you dont want a metal roof, you can always install attic foil to prevent heat loss.

All of these options are great choices, both for the environment and for your family. But dont forget to look for possible rebates and tax breaks.

Many utility companies offer rebates to customers who install energy-efficient appliances and lights. Just give your utility company a call and ask. Then be sure you understand the standards to qualify for the rebates.

If you install a whole-house voltage surge suppressor or disaster-proof features, be sure to check with your insurance company to see if you will be entitled to any reduction in your insurance rates.

Investigate energy-efficient financing for your upgrades if you are making your home more energy-efficient. Check on FHA Energy-Efficient Mortgages, FHA Section 203(k) Rehabilitation Mortgage Insurance, etc.

And dont forget the opportunities to save on your taxes.

If you will use a remodeled or added room as a home office, be sure to deduct the appropriate percentage of utilities, etc. each year as a business expense.

Get to know the U.S. Energy Policy Act of 2005. It allows homeowners to take tax credits for remodeling that improves the energy efficiency of your primary residence. The maximum credit you can take is $500, but you can take credits for:

10% of cost up to $500 for energy-efficient exterior door or storm doors


10% of cost up to $500 for a qualified metal roof


10% of cost up to $500 for adding insulation expected to last at least 5 years


$300 for qualified central air conditioning, heat pumps or geothermal heat pumps


up to $150 for a qualified gas, oil or propane furnace or hot water boiler


up to $300 for a qualified gas, oil, propane or electric heat pump water heater


up to $2,000 for solar water heating

Making your home more energy-efficient can be good for the environment, good for your family (and your wallet), and good for the resale value of your home. Do your research and shop carefully when you are making upgrades in your home. Going green will usually pay for itself within 5 to 10 years in reduced energy bills.

Copyright 2007 by ABCD Publishing

Dan Fritschen, the author of this article, is the founder of the websites http://www.remodelormove.com and http://www.remodelestimates.com and http://www.remodelingorganizer.com He is the author of three books on home remodeling.

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Windermere Hotels in the Lake District

Windermere, at ten and half miles long and over 200 feet deep, is England's largest natural lake. Fed by enormous rivers, the name itself is derived from the Old Norse word meaning 'Lake of the man named Vinandr'. Used by the Romans to transport heavy materials, it did not become a popular holiday destination until 1847, when the branch of the Kendal and Windermere Railway was built to it. The UK's wealthy flocked to Windermere to build their extravagant summer homes. Many would later be converted into guesthouses and hotels that serve as the temporary home for modern day travellers. These conversions are the backbone of Windermere's accommodation -- offering up originality and personable service for an affordable price.

Some popular accommodation choices include:

Autumn Leaves Guest House

Autumn Leaves is a three star Bed and Breakfast in central Windermere overlooking Ellerwaite Park. The exceptionally clean rooms are small, but cozy and comfortable, and an absolute steal at around 25 pounds per night, a great deal for Windermere hotels. Prices include a large, freshly cooked breakfast that will keep you running well past lunch time. Autumn Leaves is less than 200 yards from the town center and a ten-minute walk from the train station. With the lake itself being minutes away by foot, it makes for an ideal base for the budget-conscious traveller.

Beckmead House

This four-star Bed and Breakfast is only a ten-minute walk from the lake, and a five-minute walk from the town centre, giving Beckmead House an ideal location for those needing a break from the cares of everyday life. The rooms in this guesthouse feature private showers, central heating, hair dryers, a full range of complimentary toiletries and a ready supply of coffee and tea. The breakfast is comprised of the standard British fry up (bacon, eggs, sausage, tomato, mushroom, toast, and beans) plus fresh fruit, cereal, and yoghurt. Special menus are available for vegetarians and those on restricted diets, making this a smart choice for many.

The Mortal Man

The twelve rooms of this local inn have recently been refurbished to include updated interior design and luxury four-poster beds. The location of The Mortal Man among the rugged fells of Troutbeck Valley ensures each guest an amazing view of the surrounding landscape, one of the most memorable views of all the Windermere hotels. The lounge offers travellers a chance to unwind in front of the blazing log fires while sampling their selection of local cask ales and traditional malt whiskeys. The Mortal Man is a good choice for those looking to relax and unwind.

Ellerwaite Lodge

This four star, non-smoking lodge is located just a short walk from the lake. The sixteen rooms of this 19th century townhouse feature clean, soft furnishings and beds with luxury mattresses to ensure a good night's rest. Originally a private home, no two rooms are alike, but each room has en-suite bathroom facilities, complimentary aromatherapy products, a flat screen TV, and a refreshment centre stocked with coffee, tea, and hot chocolate. On the first floor lounge, guests can relax on the Chesterfield sofa while gazing out of the original stained glass windows, admiring the view of Windermere and the fells across the shoreline. The lodge is centrally located in the town of Windermere, making it a convenient location for those wishing to explore the surrounding area.

Eastbourne Guest House

A deceptively spacious guesthouse made of slate and stone, Eastbourne boasts a five star rating for its nine well-decorated, en-suite guest rooms. Constructed a few years after the surrounding Windermere hotels, Eastbourne was intended to be the private residence of a wealthy gentleman, and was built to meet his exacting standards. None of its original splendor or quality has been lost in the guesthouse conversion. The rooms are some of the largest Windermere, featuring king sized, four-poster beds and double showers with a three head power shower. It costs a bit more, but this is one case where you definitely receive what you pay for.

This is only a sample of what Windermere hotels, and the entire area, has to offer. You can find anything from farm stays to luxury spas. If a holiday at Windermere is what you want, you are sure to find accommodation that falls within your budget guidelines.

Tony Scott runs the popular Lake District website http://www.discoverthelakes.co.uk where you can find more information on Windermere hotels and all types of accommodation in the Lake District. Compiled by people who live and work in the area, Discover The Lakes is your guide to the Lake District.

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