Being Green

This site works great in Internet Explorer 7 or 8 but looks best in Firefox!

Painting Preparation

Check out this excellent list from Sherwin Williams on surface preparations for various materials. And remember, a good paint job is all in the preparation.

Basement Waterproofing

Basement Renovation AfterThis is a topic that can take you down many paths trying to solve moisture issues in your basement. Books have been writen on the subject. But why read when you can consult an expert? When our clients want to finish a basement and there are water issues to address, we call in Craig Leader from Leader Basement Systems. Craig has the solutions to fit the budget in every instance.

The Painted Surface - How To Repair Water Damage and Stains On Drywall

I found this very detailed guide on repairing drywall stains. I think you’ll find it useful!

Water stain in drywall on ceiling

Water damage and stains on drywall are usually the result of a leaky roof or plumbing fixture. Minor damage and stains can easily be repaired. When the damage is not severe enough to require the replacement of the damaged wallboard the following steps will lead you through the repair. The photo to the right shows a water stain but there was also loosened drywall mud and paint which is hard to see. ceiling stain

First make sure the drywall is still attached to the studs or framing. If the wallboard is sagging or broken it will need to be replaced. There may be blistered paint or loose layers of drywall mud but the wallboard itself is solid and secured to the studs. If the wallboard is sagging slightly try to snug it up using drywall screws. Start at the outer edge of the sag. Make sure the screws go into the studs and try not to break through the surface of the wallboard. Work slowly toward the worst part of the sag using the screws to pull up the board.

With the wallboard secure scrape off loose layers of drywall mud and paint. The moisture will have caused the mud and paint to lose its adhesion. Scrape outward until you feel these coatings are solidly attached. A putty knife with a sharp edge is a good tool for this job.

If any mold or mildew is present wipe the surface with alcohol or a solution of chlorine bleach and water to kill the mold. Check out “Mold In the Home” for more help with mold and mildew problems.

Water damage will cause a stain to appear on the drywall. This is usually the the first sign of a problem. The stain will bleed through the finish paint if not sealed. Several paints will seal drywall and are labeled for this purpose. You will find paints or primers in water, oil and alcohol(shellac) bases for sealing water stains. It has been my experience the oil and alcohol(shellac) base sealers work the best. They can be brushed or rolled on and usually dry quickly. Most stains will cover with one coat. Two coats will cover for sure and it is easier to apply the second coat now than later when the stain has come through the finish coat. The seal coat not only prevents bleed through but also provides a clean, dust free surface for any patching materials. The photo below shows how the stain was sealed over prior to applying the first coat of mud. The drywall mud shows up dark while it is wet.

First coat of drywall mud

To smooth the surface multiple applications of drywall compound are applied. Drywall compound can be bought pre-mixed or in a powder(also known as “setting type”) that is mixed with water. There are disadvantages to both but I favor the powder. The pre-mixed will take longer to dry, shrinks more and may crack as it dries. The powder type must be mixed when needed and has a shorter working time. The advantages of the powder are:

  • Mix only what you need.
  • Stores well in a dry place.
  • Dries quick enough to apply additional coats the same day.
  • Shrinks and cracks very little if any.
  • Sands easily when dry and leaves a smooth surface.
  • Use for small and large repairs.
  • Has good adhesion.
  • One product with many uses such as filling cracks and nail holes, texturing, repairing drywall and more.
  • Costs less, a bag goes a long way.

via The Painted Surface – How To Repair Water Damage and Stains On Drywall Page 1.

Cabinet Care and Cleaning Do's

A few moments of care and a little common sense can go a long way in keeping your cabinets looking their best.

  1. Clean cabinets as needed with a mild detergent or with soap and water (use  sparingly) and dry well using a lint-free cloth for both washing and drying.
  2. Wipe up spills, splatters and water spots as they occur, keeping cabinets and counter-top surfaces dry.
  3. Give special attention to areas near the sink and dishwasher that come in contact with moisture.
  4. Use cleaners and polishes designed for wood cabinets and clean all surfaces as needed.
  5. Follow instructions carefully for self-cleaning ovens and other kitchen appliances around cabinets.

Contemporary Bathroom Ideas: Linear Bathroom Design

Here’s a great site for getting some Contemporary Bathroom Ideas

Get inspiration and ideas for designing or remodeling a bathroom with contemporary style.

via Contemporary Bathroom Ideas: Linear Bathroom Design.

Kitchens .com – Common Kitchen Layouts

Here’s  a great resource on kitchen design layout.

Six Basic Ways to Set Up a Kitchen

Common Kitchen Layouts

The layout of your kitchen—where you place your appliances, your countertops, and your storage—will determine how cook-friendly your kitchen is. Ask yourself:

* Will I have to walk far to get water to top off a pot on the stove?

* Will I have enough space to slice, dice, chop, and otherwise prepare meals?

* Will I have room to store the olive oil near the stove or will I have to go across the room to get it?

* Will two or more cooks be able to work comfortably in the space without constantly bumping into each other?

* Will I be able to easily rinse dishes and load them into the dishwasher?

* Do I prefer a range or a separate cooktop and oven?

* Do I need a prep sink and a cleanup sink?

* Do I need an eating area in the kitchen?

Of course, if you’re remodeling, the structure of your existing home will limit your layout options. You’ll have considerably more flexibility the larger your space and if you’re building a new home or adding on.

via Kitchens .com – Common Kitchen Layouts.

Video on Sustainable Design Advice

Federal Tax Credits for Energy Efficiency : ENERGY STAR

Federal Tax Credits for Consumer Energy Efficiency

If you purchase an energy-efficient product or renewable energy system for your home, you may be eligible for a federal tax credit. Below you will find an overview of the federal tax credits for energy efficiency.

Please note, not all ENERGY STAR qualified products qualify for a tax credit. ENERGY STAR distinguishes energy efficient products which, although they may cost more to purchase than standard models, will pay you back in lower energy bills within a reasonable amount of time, without a tax credit.

What You Need to Know

* What is included in the Federal Tax Credit?

* How do I apply for my Federal Tax Credit?

* Top ten Frequently Asked Questions

via Federal Tax Credits for Energy Efficiency : ENERGY STAR.