DINING ROOM MAKEOVER
If you are forunate enough to have a dining area in your home then a quick make over tip could free up more space and make it more functional that an office with a laptop and papers all over the place,or a homework table.1. Look at the space -do you have a large square table with 8 chairs where you have to squeeze yourself round the chairs?Try a round table-it is a known fact that round tables accomodate more people than a square table.
2.add an eyecatching table cloth to add "panache" to the area.
3.look at your chairs- are they bulky ,try buying smaller chairs especially those without armrests.
4.Would stools work well instead of chairs,which can easilly be stored.
5.Lighting should be sufficient and bright,you can add a dimmer switch to set the "mode" for intimate dinners
6.lay a rich warm carpet if you want to be able to eat barefoot and enjoy the warmth of the room
7.a good quality wood flooring or parque flooring will resist hard wearing,knocks,spills etc.
8.pictures on the walls or a rich feature wallpaper will add "cosyness" to the room
more tips at .handymantips.co.uk
You can also see our channel and more tips on home improvement,home maintenance and repairs
Wednesday, 25 March 2009
handyman tips-entrance/hallway makeover tips
ENTRANCE AND HALLWAY MAKEOVER CHECKLIST
Entranceways are the sole of the house,this part of the house is the first insight into how you live.If someone walks into a hallway that is clutter free then the general concensus is that the rest of the house will be the same.As a general rule hallways need to be neutral and inviting because they are not terribly large spaces.some quick tips on making your hallway more inviting:1. paint the bottom parts of the hallway in a tough scratch resistant type paint if using a two tone motiffbecause the bottom part of the walls are subject to knocks and nicks,alternatively you can tile or add paneling
2. paint doors(white) and frames and change the door handles to give it a clean modern look.
3. Add a long mirror to throw back sunlight and add brilliance to the hallway as well as an illusion of more space.
4. Add colourful photographs or prints along the staircase
5. Lighting is very important-add soft but bright light fittings to the top or the stairs.
6. if possible clear all clutter from the hallway-if you have to store coats,hats or shoes the make a small standa box for the shoes and hooks for the coats all on one side of the wall only,leaving the other side free .
for more ideas see here
Entranceways are the sole of the house,this part of the house is the first insight into how you live.If someone walks into a hallway that is clutter free then the general concensus is that the rest of the house will be the same.As a general rule hallways need to be neutral and inviting because they are not terribly large spaces.some quick tips on making your hallway more inviting:1. paint the bottom parts of the hallway in a tough scratch resistant type paint if using a two tone motiffbecause the bottom part of the walls are subject to knocks and nicks,alternatively you can tile or add paneling
2. paint doors(white) and frames and change the door handles to give it a clean modern look.
3. Add a long mirror to throw back sunlight and add brilliance to the hallway as well as an illusion of more space.
4. Add colourful photographs or prints along the staircase
5. Lighting is very important-add soft but bright light fittings to the top or the stairs.
6. if possible clear all clutter from the hallway-if you have to store coats,hats or shoes the make a small standa box for the shoes and hooks for the coats all on one side of the wall only,leaving the other side free .
for more ideas see here
handyman tips-hiring professionals
TIPS ON HIRING PROFESSIONALS
Its OK to tackle some DIY projects but there are limitations to every job or task-and knowing when to call the professionalsis one of those times or put another way knowing when to "throw in the towel"The important thing is to develop a good builder/client relationship-this makes for a smooth transition of the jobs to be done and minimises the risk of a "fall out".Budgets,plans,drawings and schedules must be set out in a clear and concise manner,with contracts drawn up at the onset.
If you need help then you can get a downloadable builder/client contract here
CHOOSING A BUILDER:There is a saying that good builders are usually very busy.Selecting one by personal recommendation is usually the best option because you will have seen their work first hand and alsoget an insight into how they worked and how smoothly the project went ot not.If you have to go it alone in search of a builder then ask for 2 references at least-a good builder with a good track record will have no trouble giving you references,a builder with a shady track record will not want you contacting the devastedclients left behind.Check the builders liability insurance in case something major goes wrong in the house and the repair bill is quite hefty-who would foot that kind of bill?
CHOOSING AN ARCHITECT:An architects job is to advise you on the proposed budget,the projects strenghts and weaknesses.The architect will also be responsible for drawing up the plans,liasing with the builders,getting estimates from thebuilders and to submit the planning applications for planning permissionThe architect will also be responsible for the budget for the project.Request to see some of their previous work and if possible go and see it for yourselfUse a professional body like RIBA(royal institute of british architects) for advice and recommendations.
CHOOSING AN ELECTRICIAN
There are building regulations covering what you can safely do in DIY where electricity is concerned.This is covered by thepart P of the building regulations in England and Wales You can get a copy here or get advice and recommendations from their professional body NICEIC.
CHOOSING A PLUMBER
Choosing a plumber involves the same process as choosing a builder-but bear in mind where it involves gas work then you needto get one that is registered with CORGI.
Its OK to tackle some DIY projects but there are limitations to every job or task-and knowing when to call the professionalsis one of those times or put another way knowing when to "throw in the towel"The important thing is to develop a good builder/client relationship-this makes for a smooth transition of the jobs to be done and minimises the risk of a "fall out".Budgets,plans,drawings and schedules must be set out in a clear and concise manner,with contracts drawn up at the onset.
If you need help then you can get a downloadable builder/client contract here
CHOOSING A BUILDER:There is a saying that good builders are usually very busy.Selecting one by personal recommendation is usually the best option because you will have seen their work first hand and alsoget an insight into how they worked and how smoothly the project went ot not.If you have to go it alone in search of a builder then ask for 2 references at least-a good builder with a good track record will have no trouble giving you references,a builder with a shady track record will not want you contacting the devastedclients left behind.Check the builders liability insurance in case something major goes wrong in the house and the repair bill is quite hefty-who would foot that kind of bill?
CHOOSING AN ARCHITECT:An architects job is to advise you on the proposed budget,the projects strenghts and weaknesses.The architect will also be responsible for drawing up the plans,liasing with the builders,getting estimates from thebuilders and to submit the planning applications for planning permissionThe architect will also be responsible for the budget for the project.Request to see some of their previous work and if possible go and see it for yourselfUse a professional body like RIBA(royal institute of british architects) for advice and recommendations.
CHOOSING AN ELECTRICIAN
There are building regulations covering what you can safely do in DIY where electricity is concerned.This is covered by thepart P of the building regulations in England and Wales You can get a copy here or get advice and recommendations from their professional body NICEIC.
CHOOSING A PLUMBER
Choosing a plumber involves the same process as choosing a builder-but bear in mind where it involves gas work then you needto get one that is registered with CORGI.
handymantips-quick kitchen makeover
KITCHEN MAKEOVER CHECKLIST
The modern kitchen has become the focal point and meeting place for a lot of families in these modern times.Some families prefer to hold conversations over a glass of wine,cup of tea or a snack in the kitchen. These spaces have now become very practical with some households spending more on the kitchen than anywhereelse in the house.There are different types of kitchen designs and layout but the principle is the same.
Single line kitchen:this refers to a kitchen layout on one side of the wall-this is common where space is tightyou basically have the sink,the units,the cupboards,fridge and dishwasher all lined up in a straight line on one wall.
L shaped kitchen:This is often found in small rooms where the sink is facing the window,the cupboards are to the left and right of the sink with the whole layout shaped like a triangle
galley kitchen: This basically refers to a narrow style kitchen with the cooker,cupboards and appliances arrangedon two facing walls laeving a turning space in between.
There is also the island kitchen but you need a lot of space for this type of kitchen.
1change taps for a thoroughly modern feel there are a range of professional taps out there.
2.worktops can transform the entire look of the kitchen-a black granite look worktop will compliment white units
3.worn or tired tiles can be repianted directly using a revolutionary product available here
4.add stencilling to tiles to transform old looking tiles.
5.simply change the doors and cabinet handles-you will be amazed at the difference-just like a new kitchen
6.add strip lighting or track downlighters to add more character and shine to the room ,bright lights work very well in kitchens
7.add strip lighting under the cabinets to create a warm cosy feel
more tips at handymantips
The modern kitchen has become the focal point and meeting place for a lot of families in these modern times.Some families prefer to hold conversations over a glass of wine,cup of tea or a snack in the kitchen. These spaces have now become very practical with some households spending more on the kitchen than anywhereelse in the house.There are different types of kitchen designs and layout but the principle is the same.
Single line kitchen:this refers to a kitchen layout on one side of the wall-this is common where space is tightyou basically have the sink,the units,the cupboards,fridge and dishwasher all lined up in a straight line on one wall.
L shaped kitchen:This is often found in small rooms where the sink is facing the window,the cupboards are to the left and right of the sink with the whole layout shaped like a triangle
galley kitchen: This basically refers to a narrow style kitchen with the cooker,cupboards and appliances arrangedon two facing walls laeving a turning space in between.
There is also the island kitchen but you need a lot of space for this type of kitchen.
1change taps for a thoroughly modern feel there are a range of professional taps out there.
2.worktops can transform the entire look of the kitchen-a black granite look worktop will compliment white units
3.worn or tired tiles can be repianted directly using a revolutionary product available here
4.add stencilling to tiles to transform old looking tiles.
5.simply change the doors and cabinet handles-you will be amazed at the difference-just like a new kitchen
6.add strip lighting or track downlighters to add more character and shine to the room ,bright lights work very well in kitchens
7.add strip lighting under the cabinets to create a warm cosy feel
more tips at handymantips
handyman tips-understanding builders estimates
UNDERSTANDING BUILDING ESTIMATES
When a builder provides you with a written estimate there are ceartain provisions that are not an exact science.For instance material costing is not 100% accurate so you need to allow for a 15% mark up on ceartain materials.The problem is that from the time of the estimate to the time of starting the job-usually some builders state that estimates are only guaranteed for six months from the date of the estimate,this provision is to safeguard them against price rises and discontinued stock.Your builder will give you an estimate based on the specifications you give,so make sure you are clear to yourself andthe builder otherwise there will be misunderstandings and the end price of the job would be more than that quoted for.The builder will not do any job for free so don't be tempted to add jobs here and there as they go along,this will onlystrain the relationship between you and the builder,in some cases this type of action leads to the builder walkingout on the job.The estimate should set out the completion dates of the various jobs.Beware of "provissional sums"-this usually means that the builder intends to use sub-contractors for some of the workbut has yet to recieve their estimates,so this estimate could change and change considerably,sometimes adding 30-40% onto the totals.Confirm final sums so that they are adhered to and there is no room for massive fluctuations latter on.Check all references from the builder and their sub-contractors to make sure your home is covered by adequate insurancein case something goes wrong.The last thing you want is for an accident to happen in your home and the blame is being shifted from the builder to the sub-contractor and vice versa.To avoid any conflict check the liability insuranceof all the workers in your home regardless, and if in doubt take photocopies.
SPOTCHECK:
1.get written estimates
2.only accept firm and final quotes and not provissional quotes
3.if you are going to add more jobs then tell the builder and let them quote you for the extras
4.allow a 15% overbudget for unforseen contingencies
5.inspect and copy liability insurance of all workers and professionals in your home
see home improvement help for more details
When a builder provides you with a written estimate there are ceartain provisions that are not an exact science.For instance material costing is not 100% accurate so you need to allow for a 15% mark up on ceartain materials.The problem is that from the time of the estimate to the time of starting the job-usually some builders state that estimates are only guaranteed for six months from the date of the estimate,this provision is to safeguard them against price rises and discontinued stock.Your builder will give you an estimate based on the specifications you give,so make sure you are clear to yourself andthe builder otherwise there will be misunderstandings and the end price of the job would be more than that quoted for.The builder will not do any job for free so don't be tempted to add jobs here and there as they go along,this will onlystrain the relationship between you and the builder,in some cases this type of action leads to the builder walkingout on the job.The estimate should set out the completion dates of the various jobs.Beware of "provissional sums"-this usually means that the builder intends to use sub-contractors for some of the workbut has yet to recieve their estimates,so this estimate could change and change considerably,sometimes adding 30-40% onto the totals.Confirm final sums so that they are adhered to and there is no room for massive fluctuations latter on.Check all references from the builder and their sub-contractors to make sure your home is covered by adequate insurancein case something goes wrong.The last thing you want is for an accident to happen in your home and the blame is being shifted from the builder to the sub-contractor and vice versa.To avoid any conflict check the liability insuranceof all the workers in your home regardless, and if in doubt take photocopies.
SPOTCHECK:
1.get written estimates
2.only accept firm and final quotes and not provissional quotes
3.if you are going to add more jobs then tell the builder and let them quote you for the extras
4.allow a 15% overbudget for unforseen contingencies
5.inspect and copy liability insurance of all workers and professionals in your home
see home improvement help for more details
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