Creating A Faux Fireplace

Winter is almost here and nothing make a home feel more cozy than a fireplace. Not everyone is fortunate enough to have one though. That’s why I decided to build one. There are so many materials, colors and designs to choose from, as well as many ways to “light” them up. You could use a TV or monitor playing a roaring fire loop or you could stack candles or string Christmas lights. The possibilities are endless. Here is a how to video for building your own “fire” place.  I’ve also included a link for some decorating ideas.

So grab your cocoa and curl up by the fire!

For fireplace designs and ideas, click HERE! 

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Simple Home Improvement Ideas

Big improvement doesn’t have to mean big money. There are so many little things that you can do to your home that will improve it’s appearance and it’s functionality. Then there are those that are just plain awesome! Check this out….

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Understanding Ice Dams

Here is an informational video on how the Raychem Roof Ice Melt System efficiently and effectively prevents icicles and ice dams from building up on your roof eaves and valleys.

Raychem Roof Ice Melt Systems have successfully prevented ice dam and icicle formation on roofs across the country for over a decade. Unlike other solutions, such as a cold roof system or zigzag heating cable, Raychem’s RIM Systems are successful preventing ice dams and icicles in heavy snow regions as well as moderate snow regions. Raychem’s RIM Systems specifically target the ice dam and icicle prone areas of a roof regardless of the design, complexities, or snow load. Area Classifications, determine which Raychem Roof Ice Melt products are right for the job by identifying heavy, moderate, and light snow load areas.

The success of eliminating ice dam and icicle problems has led architects and contractors to specify the patented RIM system for their projects. In addition, hundreds of property owners have retrofitted their roofs with the RIM system. Over 480,000 feet (90+ miles) of roof eaves and valleys, throughout the United States and Canada, are protected from ice dams and icicles with Raychem’s Roof Ice Melt System

BEFORE

beforeice2     AFTER

beforeice

UNDERSTANDING ROOF ICE PROBLEMS

Ice dams and icicles occur as a result of:

  • Snow buildup on the roof
  • Heat loss from the building
    • Through insulation
    • Through chimneys
    • Through roof vents
  • Winter temperature fluctuations – freeze/thaw cycles
  • Solar heating during winter days with below freezing nights

As roof snow accumulation increases, ice dam and icicle formation likewise increase. Subsequent water ponding can lead to roof leaks, internal building damage and possible mold issues. Falling icicles can create lower roof damage, deck damage and people safety issues.

THE WINTER PROCESS
  1. Winter storms build up snow on the roof.
  2. Heat from the building (through insulation, chimneys, and roof vents) and from the sun (solar gain) causes roof snowmelt.
  3. Melted snow runs down roof lines to valleys and eaves.
  4. The melted snow refreezes at the base of the valleys and at the roof eaves.
  5. As day/night time temperatures cycle up and down, the ice dams and icicles continue to grow.
  6. Icicles cause ‘people and property safety’ concerns.

 Protect your home. Call Newhouse & Sun today!

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How To Pick The Right Painting Tools

There is nothing like the sense of accomplishment you get from standing back and looking at a freshly painted room. Whether it was just a touch up or a completely different color, it feels good! Getting there isn’t so easy though. Painting can be frustrating work. Streaks and drips…UGH!

It certainly helps when you have the right tools. Knowing what to use and how to use it can make all the difference. Watch the video below for which painting tools to use for your needs. Also, check out things like roller pan liners and gallon pour spouts! Little things like this can make life so much easier!

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Kitchen & Bath Remodels on a Budget

Want to know how to give your kitchen or bath an updated look without breaking the bank? Here’s how…

home sweet home

Paint Cabinets, Not Replace

With all of the products and techniques out there today, cabinets can look completely different just by painting them.

Painted Walls

A fresh coat of paint does wonders. If you want something more, why not try a painted design like stripes? You could even add some molding for even more depth.

Online Savings

A lot of times you can find great deals online. I recently saw a post on Craigslist where someone was remodeling their kitchen and selling their (barely used) cabinets CHEAP! You just never know!

Surplus Finds

Have you ever heard of the Habitat for Humanity stores? They sell the unused materials for a bargain. Check online for a store near you or any other discount store in your area.

Give Retro a Try

So many “vintage” things can be found at flea markets and antique stores. Why not re-purpose them into something with charm and function. The results can be amazing!

Do Most of the Work Yourself

You might get a little dirty but you can save a bundle. With all of the how-to videos online now, you can do virtually anything yourself now. Why not give it a try?

Hardware and Fixtures

It’s amazing what switching out the fixtures and hardware can do. Just changing out the hinges and handles on your cabinets can give your kitchen/bath a whole new look!

Piece by Piece

If you cannot afford to do it now, buy one piece at a time. Look for sales and discounts and buy then. Before you know it, you will have all of the things you need to do your room and the cost wont be as noticeable.

Redo What You Have

Have you looked to see whats under that linoleum? Maybe it’s hard wood. Counters in good shape? Why not try refinishing them? You could try tile or faux granite. Whatever is in good shape can be re-purposed into something wonderful with a little imagination and elbow grease.

Whatever it is you decide to do it will make a difference. Take notice of things you like online or at a friends house and think of ways to recreate it cheaply. You’ll be amazed at what you can do when you put your mind to it!

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How to Replace A Kitchen Sink

Part of remodeling your kitchen is ripping out and installing a new sink. It doesn’t look easy, but it can be with the right tools and know how. Here are a couple of short videos that show you how to remove the old sink and how to install the new one. You’ll have your kitchen upgraded in no time. So grab your tools and let’s get to work!

HOW TO REMOVE THE OLD

HOW TO INSTALL THE NEW

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Childproofing Your Home!

Childproofing your home is an important step of parenting and let’s face it, nothing is more important than your children. Here is a great info-graphic to help you to make sure that everything in your home is child friendly!

Infographic on Childproofing 101: Baby Proofing Your Home for Safety – An infographic by the team at MrHandyman.com

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