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Learn Four Basic Steps of Installing a Garage Door Opener

July 18, 2016adminDIY Projects, Home Improvement Tips, Home MaintenanceDIY projects, home improvement, home maintenanceLeave a comment

Installing your garage door opener is not an easy feat. However, it isn’t impossible. If you are already handy with tools and with little do-it-yourself projects at home, then you might find installing your own garage door opener a fun experiment. If you haven’t tried putting up your own opener, you might want to ask for a little help from anyone at home.

Here are the four steps that you have to follow in order to install your new garage door opener:

1. Check the garage door. Before you start assembling and installing the garage door opener, inspect the garage door and its parts. Ensure that all the parts are working and that there is proper door balance. Check if there are any rusting or broken parts and if there are any wobbly pieces that may need to be fixed before installing a new opener. Test if the door also closes and opens as it should. You may need to have your garage door repaired before you install an opener. This makes sure that you won’t encounter any problem after the opener is already installed. After, you need to prepare it for installation. Lubricate the parts and remove cords that are in the way.

2. Lay out all the parts and start putting everything together. Once you have checked the garage door, it is time to lay out all the parts that came in your opener kit. Check if all the parts on the list are included in the package. Set up motor on a ladder for a quicker installation while you put together the main assembly. Ensure that the ladder aligns the motor to the center of the garage door. Put together the rail and attach them as directed. Slide in the carriage over the rail and attach it to the motor. Then, install the pulley at the end of the rail opposite to the motor. Feed either the belt or chain through the end of the rail, around the pulley, and around the other end of the motor. Finally, attach the belt or chain to the carriage with the screw.

3. Install blocking on the ceiling and locate point of connection on garage door. If you don’t have blocking on your ceiling, you may need to install one. This allows you to attach the motor to the ceiling. The kit already comes with specific instructions on the blocking that the opener needs. Ensure that you are attaching the blocking to the joists in your ceiling. The specific distance from the top of the garage door to the opener motor will be specified by the instructions in the kit. This is why putting up your motor in the first place will make the process easier. Then, attach the bracket and insert the end of the main assembly to the top of the garage door as per the instructions. Lift the motor and mount it on the ceiling with durable straps or angle iron. Lastly, attach the bracket to the garage door.

4. Install the additional features. Before you finish up your installation, install the rest of the features that your garage door opener has. This includes the emergency release rope, light bulbs on the main compartment, the electric safety eyes, and the keypad wall control. Make sure that the emergency release cord is adjusted accordingly so kids cannot reach it. Light bulbs should be suitable for rough use since the opener vibrates with every use. Check with your manual for the most suitable bulb. With the safety eyes, you may need to run down wires to the bottom sides of the garage door and to the eyes. Ensure that you’re following the instructions for the wiring.

About the Author:
Kristy Jones is a DIY fan and enthusiast. She loves implementing life hacking topics especially about home improvements. She loves to declutter the home and would love to volunteer to help others live a clutter-free life. As the lead content curator for A Click Away Remotes, Kristy also contributes on writing other informative articles about basic architecture and house renovation.

Innovative & Stylish Design Ideas for a Small Kitchen

July 16, 2016adminHome Improvement Tips, Kitchen Remodeling, kitchen renovationshome improvement, home trends, kitchen remodelingLeave a comment

When people are buying a house the one room that they observe and evaluate the most carefully is the kitchen, and that is a wise thing to do. Kitchen is the space where you will spend your time working and that is why it needs to be efficient, it is also the space where all the art happens, so it will need to inspire. When you have a tiny kitchen, it seems that all it ever does is annoying you. If there was ever a time when such a problem can be alleviated, that is today. If you are interested to find out how, here are a few innovative and stylish ideas to make your small kitchen fabulous.

Blurred Lines between the Kitchen and the Family Room

It seems that open concept is not enough anymore. The kitchen and the living room are becoming one cohesive whole, with the only difference in function. In open concept designers have tried to create a strikingly different kitchen to have a visual border between the two spaces. In this 2016 trend, the key is precisely in blurring those borders with harmonic décor. You can achieve that by using similar decorative elements (e.g. curtains, area rugs, lamps, chandeliers, etc.).

A Seamlessly Blended Refrigerator

Don’t you just hate it when you achieve just the perfect décor and then you have to ruin it all with a large unappealing refrigerator? Well, not anymore. Now you have the possibility to choose a fridge that simply disappears into your interiors. Minimal lines, seamless handles and controls that are almost invisible will fit in ideally with any cabinetry.

Use Appliances as Décor

Multifunctional design elements are always a great way to add some stylish attitude to your kitchen without wasting too much space. A chandelier that can serve as a range hood – why not? If you decide for a Euro appliances stove, you can at the same time have a quality cooking appliance, sleek design, and perhaps even a pop of color.

Incorporate Glass and Mirrors

Glass and mirrors have always been a great way to visually expand some space, but they are rarely used in kitchen (especially mirrors). Replace your cabinet doors with glass doors and show off your glasses and porcelain dishes. If you place a mirror behind a light source, you will maximize the light’s reach. Placing a mirror across from a window will create an illusion of another window, and thus make your small kitchen appear larger.

An Eye-Catching Floor

We may think that the eye always go up when someone walks into a room, but sometimes it goes down. You can make that trip worthwhile by putting some accent on the floor. Linoleum can be a cheap and striking solution, but if you are a big spender, you can invest in marble floor which will give the kitchen a touch of outdoors, and therefore a sense of spaciousness.

Don’t Be Color Chicken

It is still unclear why people listen so blindly to décor rules for small spaces. Painting the walls white can be rewarding, but that does not mean you should ignore saturated and deep colors. You can use them to outline the entire space and make it eye-catching or just as accents throughout the kitchen. Paint the walls with these saturated shades or introduce them via accessories and appliances.

A Dining Space

Dining spaces in small kitchens are usually avoided, but if you can fit one in, there is no reason not to. One of the most convenient solutions for a small kitchen would be a drop-off table with folding chairs that will not disrupt the design harmony you already have. Putting several bar stools up to the countertop will enable you to have an informal and stylish dining space.

DIY Storage Upgrades

There can never be enough of kitchen storage, especially when it comes to a small kitchen. In the last couple of years we have seen a ton of inventive storage solutions from DIY enthusiasts – from tension curtain rods as shelves dividers to magnetic boards as decorative spice racks. You can use storage boxes to store napkins, dishcloths, etc. It is even possible to repurpose an old closet door to make it a handy organizer for knives, colanders, etc.

With all of these ideas, a small kitchen should no longer be considered as a place of refraining, but rather as a space full of unused possibilities and with a huge potential of inspiring preparation of amazing meals.

Guest Post By:

Chloe is an art historian, recreational ballet dancer and a contributor at smoothdecorator.com. She is passionate about photography, dance and music. Her biggest dream is to travel the whole world with her husband and take stunning photographs of beautiful places. She also enjoys learning and writing about home design, since she is crazy about aesthetics. You can find Chloe on FB, Twitter, and G+.

Home Repair Guide – Where to Start and Where to End

July 14, 2016adminHome Improvement Tips, Home Maintenancehome improvement, home maintenance, home repairsLeave a comment

Any homeowner knows that repairing and maintaining your home is a job that will never be completely done. However, in the real world the time you have to devote to home repair may be very limited. If you have to decide which repairs to tackle and which to postpone over the course of a period of time such as a vacation or visit, here are some tips on how to prioritize your project list.

Start at the Top

A sound roof allows your home to protect and shield its inhabitants. Climb up and take a good look. Seal around flashing and chimneys as needed, replace any loose or damaged shingles, and check for soft spots. While you are up there, clean out the gutters and reattach or replace any loose or damaged sections.

Plug the Leaks

Few things can do more damage more quickly than water. Carefully check for damp spots or old water stains on ceilings, walls, floors, and around windows and doors. If water infiltration is coming from the outside, find the source and replace, patch, or seal as necessary to stop the leak. Equally critical are interior leaks. Few things are more important to a home’s longevity and comfort than a reliable plumbing system. If the water is coming from a plumbing leak, try to find the source. Some companies, like, Bishop Plumbing, Heating and Cooling, know that a slow leak can quickly become a major problem. Bad faucets and constantly running toilets may be safe for do-it-yourselfers, but most other jobs require extra help.

Head for the Basement

If you dread going into your basement, it probably needs some attention. Check for standing water or evidence of past floods. Walls should be made watertight through the application of sealant and the repair of cracks. If you have large cracks or exterior walls that lean, you will likely need a professional. While you are in the basement, do routine annual maintenance on your appliances.

Look for Weak Spots

Next, take a perimeter walk and look for soft or rotted areas. Pay special attention to areas around windows and doors. Repaint and replace caulk as needed. Replace any damaged wood. Inside, check exposed floor joists and beams for damage and look for soft spots in floors. Pay special attention to areas around sinks, tubs, and appliances. Replace weak areas in your subfloor and replace the flooring or piece in new flooring to match the old.

If you’ve done a good job, when your next vacation rolls around you should be able to concentrate on repairs that are more aesthetic. In the meantime, though, your home should be safe, dry, and comfortable thanks to your hard work.

Landscaping for Dummies: Easy Ideas to get the Yard You Want

July 13, 2016adminDIY Projects, Home Improvement Tips, lawn and gardenDIY projects, home improvement, landscaping, lawnLeave a comment

Creating a yard that is as charming and attractive as the inside of your home can be a daunting task, especially for new homeowners, but landscaping is a skill that can be learned and developed. Some practice, patience, and these simple ideas can help you create a beautiful and easy-to-care-for landscape.

Go Native
Use plants and grasses that are native to your part of the country. Nurseries and garden supply centers will direct you to the plants that will thrive best in the climate, soil type, and amount of sun you get in your area. Check with local universities or the County Extension Office which provides help and services for all things agricultural and can help inform you on the best plants to try and which are invasive species or bad for the environment.

Curb Your Enthusiasm
Set realistic goals and don’t expect immediate results. Mother Nature will do things on her schedule, not yours. If you are an inexperienced gardener, or do not have much time to spend in the yard, do not plant flowers or shrubs that need constant attention. There are many plants that thrive on neglect and are a good choice for the beginning or time-strapped gardener.

Call In the Pros
There are some things that a first-time homeowner should not attempt. Trees, especially older, more established ones, should be trimmed by a professional pruning service. Cutting too much can lead to damage to the tree, and not enough trimming results in wasted time and money. Professionals like Smitty’s Tree Service Inc have the right tools and equipment to get the job done safely without risking injury or damage caused by falling tree limbs as well.

Consider All Options
Do not overlook plants in containers, window boxes, statuary, and water features. These lend variety, versatility, and beauty to your outdoor space. They can be moved when necessary, and are easy to replace if damaged or simply if your taste changes.

Use the Right Tools
It is not necessary to spend a fortune on gardening equipment, but there will be some absolute necessities. Clippers, a shovel, rake, and a garden hose are the bare minimum. Buy good quality products, clean them after each use, and store securely and safely to maintain your investment.

Plan Ahead
It is important to think long term and consider not only how tall trees and shrubs will grow, but also how wide. Note the placement of plumbing lines to avoid blockage due to root growth a few years down the road.

A beautiful yard will add to the value of your home now and in the future. Get advice from the experts, and don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty. These tips can help start you off to a great landscape and give you time to improve as you learn.

Sliding Screen Doors For Homes – The All In One Screen

July 11, 2016adminhome improvement, Interior Designdesign, home improvement, home trends, remodeling tipsLeave a comment

Screen doors are used in many homes for demarcating two rooms. These take the place of a conventional door to make it look more classy and elegant. However, screen doors may not always be hinged. It is perfectly alright if they are made to slide. In fact, there may arise many situations where we want the doors to slide. The sliding screen doors look good and when combined with functionality is a dream come true for every pragmatic house owner.

Materials used in sliding screen doors

The screen material and quality of the mesh used for sliding screen doors has become so vast that it takes a long time to make up one’s mind about which one fits the bill for you. There is a myriad of options available to choose from and these have come a long way from the traditional black mesh to the steel ones. Modern times and the advent of composite and complex materials have increased the available choices. Now, it is possible to couple both the inventiveness and the functionality of a sliding door into one and choose the right one for your home.

Here are a variety of screen options one can choose from:

Stainless Steel screens –As always, steel has reigned over in the sliding door segment too due to its anti-corrosive nature, versatility and durability. However, there are quite a few other materials that customers can go for. These can be customized too in accordance with the tastes and preferences of people. One can also opt for new versions of these steel screens, readily available in the market, such as epoxy coated steel wires. However, galvanized steel screen has always monopolized the market and still has a huge customer base.

Copper screens – Although at a premium, this is a very good option if you are anywhere close to the sea.

Pet screens – These are screens designed with a strong mesh. Pet owners end up spending annually to replace their mesh when they get damaged by constant scratching by their pets. They can instead go for pet screens as these are more durable.

Solar screening – These screens used for sliding doors block the harmful ultra violet rays of the sun. One has the option of choosing from different weaves. You could choose to go for printed solar weaving and get the added benefit of printing any picture that you like on the screens.

Benefits of a sliding screen door

Sliding screen doors are becoming a rage all over. It is an ideal option for home owners who want to bring the outside environment into the house. It enables a perfect amalgamation of the exteriors and the interiors. What better than a sliding screen door that looks aesthetic and still does the trick? A sliding screen door lets you take in the beauty of the outside and does so effortlessly. When structured and installed properly, sliding doors help you get in proper air and lighting to the house while at the same time enhancing the functionality of your house.

This is an easy way of watching your kids while avoiding the noise that emanates from the exteriors or garden area. You can close the sliding screen door and at the same time keep a watchful gaze on your little ones. These offer you protection against natural elements such as heat, light, storm etc. while at the same time makes your home look more spacious through the interplay of glass, light and other reflective factors.

These sliding doors are made of materials that are not cut from trees and hence are environment friendly whereas hinged doors are not. If you are a person who is concerned with the conservation of natural resources, these are the best option for you to go green!

Author bio:

Joseph Webb is an excellent blogger and philosopher, His keen observation to provide useful information which helps readers to get more idea. Follow him on google+. and Twitter.

4 Reasons to Install Roller Shutters for Your Home

July 9, 2016adminEnergy Efficiency, Home Improvement Tips, Home Securityenergy efficient, home improvement, home trends, roller shuttersLeave a comment

Roller shutters were earlier restricted only to the offices and shops. However, with the increase in variety and awareness, they are being installed at the doors and windows of the houses too. Roller shutters consist of various horizontal bars or web systems that are built of sturdy material. There are different materials that are used to make the roller shutters, and you can also customize the designs and layouts according to the décor of your home. Moreover, if you install a shutter in front of your window, it can be protected from the attempts of vandalism and burglary. Roller shutters are products that are utilized for a plethora of applications. Due to this factor, roller shutters are considered the best safety measure for houses. Below discussed are some of the essential reasons to install roller shutters at your place.

4 Reasons to install roller shutters:

Security against burglars- The foremost reason to install roller shutters to remain protected from the burglars. It is true that houses that install roller shutters are less prone to robbery and theft. Since these shutters are sturdy, thieves and robbers remain away from them. They know that it is only a waste of time to plan a robbery in a house with roller shutters. It is very easy to install security cameras and recorders along with these shutters, to enjoy an added amount of security.
Protection from UV rays- Whether it is a kid or a grown up, the harmful UV rays of the sun are considered to everyone. With the increasing effect of global warming, each day is getting warmer and people try to keep their houses cool. Thus, installing roller shutters can block the harsh heat of the sun from entering your home. On the other hand, these shutters can keep the inside heat intact by not letting it to escape out in the months of winters.
Shutters also control noise- Homeowners are often pissed off with the levels of noise outside their home. The honking of the cars, loud music at the neighbor’s place and kids yelling outside can be really irritating at times. It can become the worst nightmare for you to live in such a noisy environment. Thus, installing roller shutters is the best option for all those homes who have aged parents or infants who need extensive hours of sleep and rest.

4. Privacy- When all these roller shutters are shut, you get complete privacy to spend time with your partner and with your kids. With these roller shutters, you will not have to worry about those nosey neighbors who are always trying to peep inside your home. On a Sunday afternoon, you can simply sit back and relax with your family.Buy roller shutters from a reputed store only: When buying roller shutters, it is important that you buy from a reputed dealer or store.

Check for the reputation of the store.
You could take the help of the internet to find out what people are saying about different roller shutter stores in your area.
Asking questions from the shopkeeper can also help you decide whether the store is worth it or not. For instance, ask the shop owner about different materials of roller shutters and their pros and cons.

At the same time, when you buy the roller shutters, it is important to ask the shutter experts about how to install and maintain the roller shutters. If they take a half-yearly maintenance fees then you can hire them to install the shutters, as only professional maintenance can keep them durable.

How to Turn Your Bedroom into an Oasis of Rest

July 8, 2016adminBedrooms, Home Decor, Interior Designbedroom remodeling, DIY projects, home decor, home improvement, home trends, interior designLeave a comment

Every room in your house has a specific function, and the bedroom has the most important one of all – to allow you to rest and gather energy for new challenges. It is very important that the room reflects its function with its décor. Your bedroom should be cozy, soft and pleasant to be in, as well as relaxing for the eyes and free of all modern day distractions. If you are looking for ways to update your bedroom décor and make it a true resting oasis, we will help you with that.

Go for Neutral Color Scheme

Highly saturated hues are tiresome for the eyes and they can increase anxiety and thus worsen the quality of your sleep and rest time. Pastels, greens, lavender and subtle blue hues are recommended for the bedroom, but you can skip all those complications and opt for an entirely neutral room. Not only will they be soothing for your eyes, but also easy to decorate.

Add a Gallery Wall

A stylish gallery wall may be just what your bedroom needs in order to reach its full potential. We usually decorate focus walls only in our living rooms, but there is no reason not to include them in your bedroom, as well. All you need to do is choose a perfect place for it. Placing it directly in front of your bed can be a bit conspicuous, while setting it behind your bed may be completely useless. Therefore, display lovely and subtle artwork on some of the walls on the sides of the room, and wake up to your favorite pieces each day.

Headboard Makes All the Difference

A well-chosen headboard might be the thing you need to bring the whole room together. It creates a visual focal point and makes the space look truly finished. You do not even have to invest in a whole new frame; just decide for a separate headboard. The size and the material will depend on the dimensions of the room, as well as the prevailing theme and fabrics throughout the bedroom.

Change Your Linens

Changing your sheets regularly goes without saying. However, opting for some new linen can be just what you need, especially if you are decorating your space on a tight budget. Choose bold patterns or rich colors that will truly make a difference in the room.

Update Your Bed

The bed is a quintessential element of your bedroom, and any update done on it can only contribute to improving the room ambience. Choosing a comfy king single mattress will make resting and sleeping a lot easier. Additionally, if you add a stylish canopy, your bed will become a true oasis of peace. A bed bench is another interesting way to improve the appearance and functionality of your bed.

Create a Seating Area

A large bedroom could benefit from a cozy seating area. It can be an ideal place to drink your morning coffee, eat your lazy day breakfast, or curl up with your favorite book. Speaking of books, you can take the seating area to a whole new level, by creating a full blown reading nook.

Add a Dressing Table

It is a win-win investment – you will clear up some space in your bathroom and you will be able to get ready in your room instead of waiting in line for the bathroom to be empty. Also, incorporating a vanity can add your bedroom a touch of hotel-chic, making it more sophisticated and luxurious.

Hang a Statement Chandelier

If you want to add a bit of glamour to your bedroom interior, do that by simply installing a striking and elegant lighting fixture. Depending on your overall décor, you can decide for an antique crystal chandelier or a wooden ceiling fan (if you prefer the naturalistic style).

Your room is just a few steps away from becoming a peaceful oasis you have always dreamed it will be. Do not give up now, and start redecorating as soon as possible. Sleep well, rest often.

Tips To Make Moving Easier

July 6, 2016adminMovingDIY projects, MovingLeave a comment

There’s a saying that moving your home is one of the most stressful events in life. Even if you plan to hire a mover to take care of the basic moving tasks like packing and transporting your belongings, you still have to go through the hassle of settling down in a new home, establishing a new routine, finding new friends, adjusting to a new work environment/school, and so on. But with proper planning and homework, anyone can ensure a smooth, organized move into a new home. Start your moving process way early. Packing is, obviously, going to take up much of your time in the days preceding your move. Here is an infographic from Solent Plastics with some useful moving precautions, facts, and tips! Don’t forget to check it out!

Amateur at Home: What You Can Do about a Stinky Sink

July 5, 2016adminDIY Projects, Home Maintenance, PlumbingDIY projects, home improvement, home maintenance, home repairs, plumbingLeave a comment

Whether you have soft water or hard water, garbage disposal or traditional sink, chances are you will have to deal with sink odors at some time or another. Sink odors most commonly happen when food particles build up in the drain and decompose. It’s a natural process, but the smell is not something you want infiltrating your kitchen. A stinky sink is also a sign you might have blockage or further plumbing problems so it’s good to keep a sharp eye out and stop problems when you see them.

Home Remedies
There are actually several around-the-house, non-chemical products that can be helpful in destroying odors in your sink. Despite what you may have heard, they can actually be extremely effective in most cases and will save you money. If you have a garbage disposal, try cutting a lemon in half and putting it in the disposal. Not only will it get rid of the odor, but it will leave a fresh and natural lemon scent whenever you use it. For sinks with or without a garbage disposal, you can try a combination of 1 cup baking soda, 2 cups vinegar, and boiling hot water. First, pour the cup of baking soda into the drain. Next, pour the vinegar on top (this will cause bubbling). Flush it with hot water. This will kill the bacteria that builds up from decomposing food. The benefits of using these products are that these items are all pretty cheap, versatile, and you might already have them at home.

Store-Bought Products
A little hot water, lemon, baking soda, and vinegar go a long way in destroying sink odors. However, if these do not work, there are several products you can buy at the store that are made to take care of drain clogs and/or odors. Since these products can contain potentially harmful chemicals, it’s recommended to only use them as a last resort.

Call a Plumber
If none of the above methods seem to help and/or you don’t want to use store-bought products, you can always call plumber. Sometimes the decomposing food gets so stuck in the drain, and the only way to get it out is to disassemble the drain. In this case, it’s best to call someone who knows what they are doing. Places like Rooter Pro Plumbing can do emergency repairs and help get your kitchen back in working order more quickly.

There are many solutions to sink odors. If the first methods you try don’t work, don’t get discouraged. Sink odors may be inconvenient and gross, but they can always be remedied.

How To Create A Cool Kids Bedroom

July 2, 2016adminDIY Projects, Home Improvement Tipsbedroom remodeling, DIY projects, home improvement, infographicLeave a comment

Have you toyed with the idea of making a playroom for your kids but don’t know where to start? This infographic will provide you with inspiration to get started!

Creating a Cool Kids Playroom Infographic by The Rug Seller by The Rug Seller

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