Everything you need to understand about cabinets - basic introduction to cupboards

When you think about cabinets, much more often than not, you think of kitchen cupboards. These are the hottest topics within the market these days simply because of their performance, significance, and versatility. However, there is much more to cabinets than kitchen area cupboards, as cabinetry encompasses all facets of house decoration.



Cabinets are much more than just storage. They speak of one's personality, your taste, and your sense of style. The chances are endless, but it boils down to what your choices are. In terms of style, you will find various sorts of cabinets to select from. But they're basically subsumed into common classifications, for example framed or frameless, inventory or custom made, conventional, country, or modern fashion, made of hardwood, wood veneers or other materials.



Inventory and Customized Cupboards



Cupboards are generally classified into stock cabinets and customized cupboards. Inventory cupboards are individuals cupboards which are pre-fabricated and could be bought "off the rack" in many cupboard shops. Customized cabinets, on the other hand ordinarily refer to cupboards that are specially built by cabinet makers to match a homeowner's extremely comprehensive specs, and therefore are usually carried out on site (homeowner's home).



Framed and Frameless Cabinets



A framed cabinet is a cupboard with a body connected towards the entrance edges of its physique. This is also known as traditional, face-framed or American-style cabinet. A frameless cabinet, as the title implies, is one which has no body attached to enhance its physique. This is the standard among European-style cabinets.



Conventional, Country, Or Modern Style



If one goes by custom, all kitchen area cabinets are created from hardwood and therefore are fastened to the kitchen area walls. But nowadays, completely fixed cupboards have given way to standalone mobile cabinets that might come in unconventional materials, for example glass or plastics. Traditional fashion cupboards are appealing to more people because of its ageless appearance.



Country style cupboards give a comfortable, cozy and welcoming feel to a space. Hardwood is the best material to start with in the event you choose a country feel for your cabinets, as this may blend well with florals or nature-inspired textiles or designs.



There are countless other styles to choose from, enough to get you confused on your choices. To avoid this, it would be best to understand exactly where to begin your search. Browse through magazines, woodworking books, or cupboard shops. You can broaden your search to web sites on homes and furnishings. Just remember not to overlook a fashion that would naturally blend with design and architecture of one's house.



Strong Wood, Bonded Wood, and Wood Veneers



It's been a long time, and getting new cabinets means getting the services of a cabinet maker or getting down and dirty to make custom wood cupboards. As technologies have progressed, the opportunities have become limitless. Old and new supplies offer other various classifications of cabinets.



Solid Wood



Because of its versatility and ageless appearance and appeal, wood has become the most common material used for cabinets. It provides a warm, homely atmosphere, and blends nicely with nearly any type of interior design and d�cor. The various kinds of wood species give more diverse choices, but your option would eventually depend on your personal style and spending budget. Wood is the most sought-after material for customized cabinets.



Wood supplies come from two kinds of trees: hardwoods and softwoods. Hardwood supplies come from coniferous timber, or trees which are easy to acquire. Softwood materials come from dicotyledonous or hard-to-cut trees.



Various wood species fetch different costs, relying on its availability and overall look. You will find several materials you can choose from: maple, oak, cherry, hickory, yellow birch, or pine.



Oak was the heavy favorite among cupboard builders until recently, when maple grew to become more popular within the cupboard industry. It is adaptable to any type of cabinet style due to its mild and normal grain texture. Extremely comparable to maple when it comes to flexibility, is the yellow birch selection. With its power and broad range of colors, it's a preferred option for kitchen cupboards.



Cherry wood colors vary from pinkish to red-brown when aged and exposed to sunlight. Hickory is a light colored, to reddish brownish hardwood that is best for a staining finish. Although, pinewood will be the most inexpensive selection, it requires careful handling and preparation due to its susceptibility tobumps and scratches.



Exotic woods fetch higher prices as they are the much more uncommon types. Among those are mahogany, ebony, and walnut. Mahogany is largely derived from tropical rainforests. Its reddish brownish color and normal grain qualities make it an ideal alternative to old oak wood. Walnut colors range from darkish brown to your purplish shade of black. Ebony wood generally refers to very dark or black wood.



Bonded Wood



Bonding refers to the procedure of making large wood supplies from a number of smaller pieces of wood. Bonding processes differ. One way is cutting broad boards into narrow parts, then glued collectively to make the specified width or form. Blocks of wood might also be glued together to make up a single component of the cabinet. Another procedure entails wood chips or small wood particles combined with a gluing substance, the processed to create sturdy wood particle boards. And lastly, the process of bonding several levels of particle boards might be carried out to create plywood panels that are ideal for adding strength to softwood cabinets.



Wood Veneers



Wood veneers are thin layers of wood supplies from superior species of wood. These are glued on the surface of the cupboard materials, generally plywood or plastic board. This will be the best choice to get a more versatile wood cupboard accented with various wood patterns and textures. Wood veneers are aesthetically effective not just for raised panel cabinet doors, but also for flat or recessed cabinet doorways.



A word of caution for the spending budget: Although wood veneer as an option for wood appears to suggest that's an inexpensive material, extremely elaborate veneering styles could end up being much more expensive work pieces.



Amy Wells

http://www.articlecity.com/articles/home_improvement/article_6837.shtml

Easy DIY projects that spruce up a home in no time

(BPT) - Give Dad a break from his "to do" list and instead handle some of those easier DIY tasks for him. From simple fixes to bigger projects, sometimes all you need is the right tool at the right time to get the job done.



Here are some helpful ideas to get you started.



Fix that door that won't stay open: Having a door that shuts when you want it to stay open can be a real annoyance. Try tightening the screws on the top door hinge with a power screwdriver like the new 360 Quick-Select from SKIL. This tool comes with 12 of the most commonly used screwdriver bits in a rotating compartment located at the front of the tool so you don't have to put your project on hold to switch bits.



Put together a ready-to-assemble (RTA) piece of furniture: RTA furniture looks like an easy project in the store, but once you get it home it can quickly get the best of you. But with a little patience and the right tool, the project can provide self-satisfaction besides a new piece of furniture. In fact, using a power screwdriver can help eliminate frustration and get the project finished even faster, plus you'll know each screw is secure to avoid anything falling apart later.



Give old furniture a new life: If the office desk is looking shabby (or maybe it's a table or dresser), give it an easy makeover. Use sandpaper to take off old varnish and help the new paint adhere to the piece. Wipe off any dust with a clean dry cloth, then apply 1-2 coats of fresh paint with a brush, roller or spray can. Let the paint dry thoroughly then seal with a coat of Polyurethane for a protective finish.



Update ceiling fixtures: Most of us don't realize how ceiling fixtures can quickly change the look of a room. Always turn the power to the circuit off before changing a fixture. Remove the old fixture by unscrewing the cover plate and disconnecting the electrical wires. Reconnect the new fixture according to the directions included in the box. Using a lightweight power screwdriver for this project will prevent your arms from getting tired while working above your head.



Day to day repairs: Keeping a power screwdriver in the kitchen drawer will let you make those little repairs as they happen. So when that drawer knob or towel bar comes loose again because the kids are forever pulling on them too hard, grab the power screwdriver out of the draw and get it fixed on the spot. Lithium ion batteries can stay charged for up to 18 months so the power screwdriver will be charged and ready when you need it.



SKIL Tools has all the tools you need to complete at-home projects whether you're a beginner or have advanced skills. Visit www.SKILTools.com/360 for information on the new 360 Quick-Select, and take advantage of the Where to Buy feature.

Don't be daunted by drywall: Tips for success

(BPT) - Whether you're finishing a basement or adding space, many home improvement projects require you to replace or add drywall. These days, many homeowners are considering hanging and finishing drywall themselves, giving their projects a complete do-it-yourself flair and helping to cut expenses.



As you plan your summer home improvement projects, consider adding the drywall portion of the task to your to-do list. Nearly 80 percent of homeowners who remodeled their home, or built a new one in the last two years, did all or a portion of the construction themselves, according to a survey by Priority Metrics Group.



Anitra Mecadon, host of DIY Network's Mega Dens, is working with National Gypsum, the maker of Purple drywall products, to help homeowners install and finish their drywall during this summer's home improvement season. She provides some easy tips to ensure their projects look professionally done when finished:



1. Choose the right drywall product to ensure your walls are built to last. For example, Purple products are fire resistant, provide unparalleled resistance to moisture, mold, mildew, scratches or dents, and can even help reduce the noise heard between rooms.



2. Measure the wall and ceiling space twice to determine the amount of drywall needed. You only get one cut, so double check your measurements. Using a utility knife, score the front of the drywall deep into the core.



3. Snap the board so it's connected only by the back paper.



4. Cut the back paper so it separates, using a utility knife or keyhole saw to cut around electrical outlets, windows and doors.



5. Trim rough edges using a rasp or utility knife until the edges are clean and smooth.



6. Hang the drywall horizontally against the framing and attach using fasteners such as screws or nails. Remember to hang and attach ceilings first. Ask a friend for help.



7. Using joint compound and paper joint tape, apply a coat of joint compound to the joints and firmly embed the tape to ensure a good bond, then let it dry.



8. Apply joint compound over the taped joints and fastener heads - feathering out further with each coat - then let dry.



9. Using sandpaper, sand excess joint compound to create a smooth surface, making sure you don't damage the drywall face paper.



10. Make sure the finished wall or ceiling is free from dirt, grease, dust or anything that might affect your primer or finished paint.



"If I can install or finish drywall, anyone can," says Mecadon, who has hung plenty of drywall. "Whether you're building a new home, adding a media room or remodeling your kitchen or bath this summer, Purple products give you what you need to get the most out of your walls."



To learn more about drywall techniques and the benefits of using high-performance Purple products, visit AskforPurple.com.

10 Seasonal Tips: Simple ways to save time and enjoy the holidays

(BPT) - It may be the most wonderful time of year, but at times, it can also feel like the most stressful. This holiday season, take a fresh approach to your "to-do's list" to save time and energy so you can be merry and bright. These 10 tips and tricks will help you relax, unwind and enjoy all the best parts of the holidays.



Wrap while shopping

It's a given that shopping early avoids the last-minute frenzy, but you can save even more time and stress by getting gifts wrapped while out and about. Many department stores offer gift wrap services, all you need to do is ask.



Streamline holiday cards

Sending cards is a holiday tradition, but it shouldn't cause unneeded stress. No need to worry about a dated address book - an easy trick is to cut return address labels from each card you receive and place in an envelope. Now it's easy to send cards to loved ones and update your address book without hassle.



Use baking hacks

Using premade foods is one of the simplest (yet yummy) ways to create holiday bakery delights. Check out www.facebook.com/entenmanns for simple, amazing recipes like Entenmann's Dreamy Chocolate Bars that feature crumbled Rich Frosted Donuts as the secret ingredient. While you're baking, double the batch to have an extra on hand for a hostess gift.



Go tech free

Smartphones ringing, emails beeping, texts buzzing - technology is time consuming. Avoid feeling overwhelmed by designating tech-free times for your family each day. Use this time (1-2 hours) to relax and focus on each other, perhaps with a hot cup of cocoa - the emails and messages will still be there later.



Schedule a salon visit

With a long holiday to-do list, it's hard to find time for you. That's why treating yourself to a haircut or manicure can do wonders for your holiday spirit. Plus, you'll look and feel fantastic when you attend all those festive get-togethers.



Opt for an open house

Having a holiday gathering adds to the season's merriment, but where will everyone fit and how will you feed them? Instead of a formal dinner, opt for an open house with hors d'oeuvres. You'll have less work and more time to spend with love ones as they come and go.



Embrace holiday breakfasts

Start every day off right by enjoying a delicious breakfast with your family. No need to spend hours in the kitchen cooking; instead include iconic breakfast classics that you and the kids love. For example, scrumptious Entenmann's Donuts are undeniable when paired with fresh fruit for a quick breakfast delight. Find more breakfast inspiration at www.facebook.com/Entenmanns.

Design Tips - Furniture layouts that work with your fireplace

I love fireplaces! I was inspired to write about this topic today while incorporating a new fireplace design into a home renovation project I've been working on.



Nothing makes you feel more comfortable and cozy than a crackling roaring fire on a cold winter day. A fireplace instantly infuses character and charm into any room and gives the space its personality. A formal living room fireplace lets us know it's a more mature space to relax or retire to on special occasions. The more rustic stacked stone fireplace in the family room calls for everyone to kick back, relax and nestle in for a casual family gathering. The dining room fireplace (my personal favorite) invites your friends and family to linger around the dining table for evenings filled with great food and even better conversation.



Whether it's your living room, family room, dining room kitchen or bedroom, the fireplace is the focal point in the space and the proper furniture placement is imperative in order for you to make the most of your fireplace.



Symmetrical Layout.



If your fireplace is centrally located within a wall and is flanked by windows or bookcases that are the same dimensions on each side, then you're dealing with a more traditional space and personality - which speaks to a more traditional furniture placement. Pairs are important here. Flank a pair of comfortable and inviting chairs (or similar in size, design and proportion) on either side of the fireplace. Place your sofa directly facing the fireplace and you now have a comfortable conversation area. Situate a cocktail table, ottoman or other surface in front of the sofa. Dress the mantle with a mirror, art, and other accessory pairs. Anchor the area with a beautiful area rug and make sure to relax the formality and potential stiffness with some colorful objects and textures.



Asymmetrical Layout.



In a more energetic space with the varied details, irregular nooks and crannies the fireplace that is off-center can create a more challenging space to layout. It's also a more interesting space to design. You may still be able to place the sofa directly in front of the fireplace, but if that isn't an option, consider positioning the furniture on a rug set on a slight diagonal turn. Make sure that the floating furniture situated on that rug are positioned at right angles with each other. It's all about the relationship within the grouping itself. For a more informal atmosphere, a more casual accessory placement above the fireplace mantle is expected. Just make sure there is a balancing act between all elements within this asymmetrical space.



Open Floor Plan.

Many homes have great rooms or large family spaces that are open and undefined. If not designed properly they can feel unanchored as the furniture can feel unanchored in an opened multi functional space. Open floor plans tend to flow from one space to another so it's more important than ever to have each space relate to each other. Create the furniture groupings in front and around the fireplace. Direct the traffic and flow around the furniture grouping rather than through the space - thereby defining the living space and accentuating the focal point. Keep everything clutter-free and avoid any sharp corners and obstacles. Incorporate durable and space defining flooring and area rugs to help designate zones to help define the space and enhance that beautiful fireplace.



Finally, remember to keep your seating casual and inviting, use forgiving fabrics which allow you to kick back and relax - and sprinkle high end comfort throughout with luxurious down pillows to sink into at the end of the day. Light the fire, grab your tea your favorite book and nestle in for the night!



by: Lori Gilder

http://www.articlecity.com/articles/home_improvement/article_6309.shtml

Details on carpet stain removal

Carpet stain removal can be a daunting task. It should also be done with much care and precaution to prevent damage on the carpet. While using the vacuum cleaner will do fine, it will only remove the dirt. Stains are different, thus, they should be treated differently.



Regardless of the approach employed in removing the stains, it is best to act immediately and quickly. If you wait in doing the cleaning, you risk ruining your carpet for good. Whether oil, wax, solid or liquid substances are spilled on the carpet, you need to grab a clean cloth to remove the solid substances or what can be removed from the stain.



Then you have to blot out as much of the stain as possible. If a liquid substance spilled the carpet, there might occur wicking. Wicking means that the liquid substances have pooled at the bottom of your carpet. Hence, it will weaken the fiber of your carpet, causing the stain to spread and resurface; and eventually, serious damage is done on your carpet.



To prevent wicking, you need to cover the area with a thick dry cloth, and weigh it down with thick books or something that is heavy. Leave it overnight and remove the stain as normal in the following day.



In the morning, when you are certain that no more liquid or staining material will come out, blot out the stain using a dampen cloth or sponge. Avoid scrubbing the carpet as it would weaken the fiber and cause the stain to spread to other areas.



Blotting the stain gently will remove the stain without causing further damage to the carpet. If the stain remains after blotting it with water, you may want to squirt mild dish washing liquid onto it to clean. Blot the stain gently and let it sit for an hour before you blot again with a cool damp sponge or cloth until the stain is totally removed.



There are many carpet stain removal products available in the market in case you do not like to use dishwashing liquid detergent. Commercial products designed for removing stains vary based on what types of stains on your carpet.



For them to be effective, you need to figure out what type of stains your carpet has. If it is greasy like oils for cooking, body, automotive or moisturizing, use grease-based stain removal products.



If the stains are acid-based like coffee or urine, your choices are oil-based or acid-based products. In oil-based, the stains are dissolved, while in acid-based, the chemical quality of the spots are changed in order to make them easy to remove.



If you are not certain on the type of stain your carpet has, choose the all-purpose type of carpet stain removal product.



In all your undertakings, it is best to test the carpet stain removal product in a corner of the carpet or in any out-of-the-way area of the carpet, lest, you may risk creating a faded spot that may look more hideous than the stain itself.



by Rudy Silva

http://www.articlecity.com/articles/home_improvement/article_6257.shtml

DIY tips to check windows and doors and save on utility costs year-round

The typical American household spends $2,200 a year on energy bills, with nearly half spent on heating and cooling costs, according to ENERGY STAR. Updating your home with more energy-efficient window options like Pella's 350 Series vinyl windows and patio doors can help protect your home from cold weather and save on costly repairs down the road.



"Completing an annual home walk-around is a great way to check for potential maintenance needs and home improvements," says Kathy Krafka Harkema, spokesperson for Pella Windows and Doors. "Look for leaks, feel for drafts, and replace or repair worn or broken items to help avoid more costly damage."



How to inspect windows and doors



* Inspect interior and exterior finishes and the space around them. Is the paint or stain in good condition? Signs of flaking and peeling, or water stains may mean that it's time to refinish or replace the window or door.



* Check windowsills and door tracks for dirt and debris, like sand, leaves, insects or pine needles that could hamper the operation and performance of windows and doors. Remove debris by gently sweeping out the area with a soft, dry brush and vacuuming.



* Check weather stripping around windows and doors, reattaching or replacing loose or torn pieces.



* Feel for uneven sliding and sticking when you open or close a window. Use a non-oily lubricant, like paraffin wax, on the opposing surfaces to help reduce sticking.



* Replace broken or inoperable windows and doors with safer, more energy-efficient ones. Those that do not open and close easily could be a safety risk, especially in the event of a fire.



Here are 10 signs it's time to replace your windows or doors



* Overall poor performance: Windows or doors are difficult to open or close and air leaks in, out or around them.



* Fogging: Condensation or fogging occurs between panes of glass.



* Chipping: There's chipping, peeling or deterioration of the finish on or around the window or door.



* Single-pane: Single-pane windows are less energy-efficient than double or triple-pane options.



* Water logged: Telltale water stains remain on or around the wall or floor area surrounding window or door.



* Out-of-date: Replacement parts for older windows or doors can be hard to find or non-existent.



* Energy inefficient: Drafty, leaky windows and doors can make it more costly to warm your home in the winter and cool it in the summer.



* Draftiness: Drafts can be felt through the window or door when it's closed.



* Unable to open: Windows or doors are painted or nailed shut.



* Won't stay open: The window or door won't open easily or won't stay in place once opened.



To begin your window or door replacement project, visit Pella.com/news for more info on how to connect with a local Pella representative to talk about your replacement project plans, or shop online at PellaatLowes.com.

Have you tried light blocking curtains?

Light blocking curtains, sometimes known as blackout curtains or lined blackout curtains, can be a very appealing and functional interior design touch. Once you understand the main elements involved in choosing your light blocking curtains, you'll be able to successfully install and utilize them to maximum effectiveness.



Take Measurements



Blackout curtains, drapes or blackout window curtains come from the factory in many different sizes, shapes and styles. Since the main purpose of these curtains is to perform the function of blocking out daylight, it's essential to take accurate measurements around all of the windows and glass doors in which you intend to hang them. You need to always measure a little wider and lower so that the drapes extend past the corners, bottoms, and sides of the glass where all possible outdoor light can come in.



Are they Dark Enough?



Blackout curtains come in several colors. But they're all usually dark enough to serve the purpose of blocking the light out of your home, apartment or condominium. If you're buying them because you want to be able to sleep comfortably during the day when the sun's bright, then you should carefully choose the darkest color you can find, as this will successfully block out more sunlight than lighter versions. But if all you want to do is block out the often blinding glare of the sun that's coming into your living room, you can go with a lighter color to match your interior decor.



Materials and Textures



Many of these lined blackout curtains are made of heavy-duty thermal material since thermal textures are more efficient at blocking out the strong, harsh rays of the sun. You have to understand that when this type of material gets dirty from dust and other airborne pollutants, you'll have to eventually clean them. This will often mean removing them and taking them over to the dry cleaner, as household steam cleaners usually aren't effective enough for a thorough cleaning and a full disinfecting procedure.



But the many benefits of these heavy, rugged textures also include keeping out the intense heat of the sun in summer time, saving on your air conditioning energy consumption costs, and helping prevent the sun from color fading of your carpets and furniture, especially the leather, velour and suede variety.



Price



You can find these blackout curtains selling for a wide variety of prices depending on which brand you buy and from which online or physical retail location you choose to purchase at. Wider, longer and heavier ones will always cost more. So will ones with custom designs and weaved patterns on them. These are the upscale, high end brands. Many homeowners are content to buy the least expensive, simplest designs and just color coordinate the curtains with their carpet, hardwood floors, wall coverings, and sofas. Well priced light blocking curtains are also going to be incredibly durable. They won't fade due to the strong sun hitting into them all day long, so they make an excellent household investment.



Versatility



Because light blocking curtains can be used in so many home window applications, they have become very popular over the years since they first came out. Blackout window curtains can be used instead of ordinary blinds to block out much more sunlight. They're certainly ten times better than even the darkest standard curtains. And these light blocking curtains can be installed over either windows that rise vertically or over ones that roll inward towards the room. They can also be used on sliding glass doors that lead to patios, porches and decks.



by: Alfred Oliver

http://www.articlecity.com/articles/home_improvement/article_7244.shtml