If you have ever considered yourself an avid and knowledgable wine drinker then you should have one of two things already installed in your home. Either you have a Wine cellar room or a

dual-zone wine cooler, or if you really are a wine connoisseur, you already have them both. Moreover, every wine drinker on the face of the planet should have a compact wine cooler either stashed or on display somewhere in the home with easy access and inviting exquisiteness for all your friends and family.

Educated about wine

In life, there are two kinds of wine people. First, you have the normal people who will open a bottle of wine or have a beer or two with friends as part of their meal. Additionally, they would not think twice about whether the wine has been chilled or that it has even gone bad, and this will be due to the fact that they don’t know what it tastes like when it has gone bad. Second, you have the people who can look at a bottle on the local supermarket’s shelf and know instantly that the viscosity and colour of the wine inside the bottle do not look right and therefore is spoiled. Overall, the latter are the ones who are the wine cooler and wine cellar types and those are the ones who you should be more than happy to be friends with. Moreover, they will always serve you top-of-the-class wine as chilled as the day it matured.

Stepping up and improving your tastebuds

Being progressive with the way you think and treat wine is not a bad thing. Additionally, taking your time to explore and understand the undertones and flavours of the wine you are about to drink is a must. Furthermore, wine drinking should be a conversation starter between friends and it should come from a good place where your opinions about it are well-informed. Therefore, having a little bit of growth as a wine drinker is not a bad idea, especially since you don’t want to accidentally give yourself poisoning by consuming alcohol that isn’t drinkable anymore.

The ability to understand wine

Picture yourself sipping on a good Merlot, enjoying its rich warm undertones and berry flavours, the aromas swirling in your mouth as it wafts up to your nostrils carrying the undiluted scent of a wine barrel. Now imagine having this very experience in the comfort of your own home, in the silence and far away from the hustle of a bar or restaurant. If you are a person who has the ability to understand the wine this way then as a wine drinker you should have your own wine cooler as it is the only product that can preserve your wine just as described.

Going out to get yourself a dual-zone wine cooler

Inevitably avid wine drinkers go out to get themselves a wine cooler, because how can one be an avid wine drinker and not own one. Furthermore, it does so …

Water damage can happen in your Annapolis home in many different ways. Various problems can cause water damage, ranging from leaking pipes and appliances to a leaky roof. For example, a burst pipe, malfunctioning sump pump, or weather conditions can cause a flood. In these cases, you will need to remove the water from your home quickly so mold does not develop. Because water damage can wreak havoc on your home, getting the problem handled as soon as possible is essential. If you wait too long, it may cause more damage than you initially thought. If you need water damage restoration Annapolis, MD, you should not hire the first water restoration company you find. Water can also be a byproduct of fire suppression.

Water emergencies are scary and disruptive. Even if you’re not experiencing severe damage, they happen without warning. Getting professional help is essential to minimizing damage and restoring your home or business to its original state. Call Restoration 1 for emergency water damage restoration Annapolis 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, for a free estimate. No matter what type of water disaster you’ve experienced, you can rest easy knowing that a trained technician is on the way to fixing your problem. The professionals at Restoration 1 have been a trusted name in plumbing, and they have excellent customer service representatives that will ensure your complete satisfaction.

Although assessing the extent of your property damage is a critical first step, it can be overwhelming and time-consuming. You need to know what to expect and how to mitigate it. For example, while it is true that you can’t stop water from dripping from a ceiling, many materials are porous, allowing water to penetrate even more profound. The damage can quickly become too extensive to repair without professional aid, and Restoration 1 is ready to help.

Water mitigation is the first step in property damage restoration when you have flood damage. Water that remains in a property can cause structural damage and mold growth. Water mitigation is accomplished by using high-velocity air blowers and dehumidifiers. Trained professionals carry out water mitigation services performed by Restoration 1.

Restoration 1 provides professional water damage repair and reconstruction services for commercial and residential properties in Maryland and Washington DC. Whether you have experienced water damage in your home or commercial property, contact Restoration 1 today for fast, quality water damage restoration Annapolis. Their comprehensive range of restoration services includes:

• Water removal and remediation.
• Fire and smoke damage cleanup.
• Mold remediation.
• Leaking roof repair.

Each technician is highly trained, insured, and abides by a code of ethics. As a result, you can rest assured that the water damage restoration technicians you hire will get the job done right. Because the damage can cause additional problems, they will efficiently mitigate them. Restoration 1 is known for its honest technicians and free estimates.

If your home has been flooded, you can rest easy knowing that you’re in …

If you’ve recently had a house fire, you may be looking for fire damage restoration Phoenix services. These restoration companies offer emergency service and 24-hour availability. Fire damage restoration services include emergency board-up, removal of debris and soot, odor removal, textile restoration, and mold remediation. Phoenix’s AZ Environmental Contracting Inc. was founded in 2008, and its crews are experienced, EPA-certified, and trained to deal with a variety of restoration needs.

While house fires have decreased over the last few decades, they still occur. Most house fires are small and quickly extinguished with household fire extinguishers. But a Phoenix fire may be more complicated, and you may require the services of a fire damage restoration Phoenix company. This can help you get back on your feet and rebuild your home in the fastest possible time. SERVPRO of Northwest Phoenix/Anthem is experienced in fire damage restoration and will help you recover from the fire quickly.

Tactical Restoration specializes in fire and smoke damage restoration in Phoenix and serves residents throughout the Valley. Its experienced team consists of in-house professionals that work around the clock to restore damaged homes and businesses. In addition to fire damage restoration, Tactical Restoration provides water and mold remediation and emergency services. So no matter where your property is located in the Phoenix area, you can rest assured that Restoration 1 of Phoenix has the expertise to restore it to its original state.

Once you’ve got your home back to its original condition after a fire, you’ll want to start restoring the damaged items. fire damage restoration in Phoenix should be a top priority for your home. A company specializing in fire damage restoration will provide you with an accurate estimate, and the time it will take to restore your home to its pre-fire condition. With the help of a company like On Call Restoration, you can rest easy knowing that their work will be done quickly and safely.

ABC Plumbing & Rooter is another excellent option for fire damage restoration in Phoenix. ABC Plumbing has been providing fire and smoke damage restoration services to the Phoenix Metroplex since 1968. Whether your home has been damaged by smoke or fire, they can remove all traces of ash and soot, repair central air conditioning systems, and address any plumbing concerns that may have arisen. They are licensed, bonded, and insured, and their technicians are trained to handle all types of fire and smoke damage.

The Arizona area is prone to flash flooding. The Gila River runs through Maricopa County, so residents know the potential risks. Flash flooding in Phoenix requires fast water extraction, as failure to remove moisture can cause further damage. The best option is to hire Phoenix area restoration professionals for a timely response and thorough cleaning. In most cases, the restoration professionals you choose will work closely with you and your insurance company to minimize your losses and prevent the need for costly reconstruction.

A fire may start suddenly and spread quickly throughout a building. This …

Window and Door Software – Enhancing Your Production

The window and door software industry is a growing market and there are many options for your design needs. Joinery software is important in making these building features fit perfectly with little to no problems. The technology available today is cutting edge and gives you the flexibility to quote, order and manufacture customer or architecturally specified products swiftly and accurately. Whether manufacturing is for new constructions or the replacement market or you use wood, hollow metal doors, interior or exterior doors, industrial software will make this process much smoother.

Challenges in this industry are usually a positive sign of growth. Recent research shows plastic windows and doors will have the highest expansion rate through to 2014. This is because the strong, robust and low cost nature of the material will cause significantly more demand. During periods of economic recession, contractors move their purchasing to less expensive providers but they do stay brand loyal. When the economy picks up, contractors move back to their retailers that provide delivery and other services. Because of this, manufacturers can build brand loyalty by focusing on specialty retailers and dealers in their marketing. Beside these situations the market for commercial construction will most likely remain down through 2011. This will be a slow year in terms of demand for windows and doors from commercial contractors.

The best way to retain big clients is to use window and door software enabling you to have the best and most cost effective design. You not only need the best raw material, but a program that allows you to do correct cost analysis, work out quotations and analyse the production measures before you begin to construct.

The necessity for dependable and excellent window and door software is increasing daily. Consumer demand patterns drive the evolving changes of the technology used in this industry. The technology available needs to keep up with market changes, consumer preferences, as well as providing accurate and quick calculations and being cost effective. The functional areas of such technology should also include: Estimating, Orders, Labor and Production Scheduling, Fabrication, Shop Drawings, and Machine Control.

Regardless of what materials are being used, whether it is expensive supplies such as aluminium, PVC or wood the software needs to be smart enough to make sure the most is being made of the material used. Top notch technology in this industry will increase performance and excellence many times over; this will result in large savings in terms of both money and time.…

Do it Yourself Auto Window Repair – Auto Glass Replacement

Some people truly enjoy fiddling with their cars. Whether they are changing the oil, washing it, or tuning it, they really enjoy it. When something breaks in the car, they are not as happy fiddling with the car, but they can deal with it. Replacing a fuse here, a flat tire there. But what happens when something breaks n your car that is a little more difficult, like a window, can you do your own auto glass replacement?

My answer is absolutely, anyone can do an auto window repair. Especially if you are a car enthusiast like above. But even if you hate cars, you can do this yourself, you simply have to dedicate yourself to doing it. It’s a little tough, but the accomplishment is worth it.

Why would you want to do an auto glass replacement yourself, when you can simply bring the car to a body shop and have them do it? Well, there are several reasons I could give you. The first is savings. Most of the time, when repairing something yourself, you save money in labor. This is not always true, but in this case it generally is. You also feel that great sense of accomplishment for fixing your own car. That’s a great feeling. In addition, there are some people who simply don’t want anyone else touching their car-it’s like their baby. For this reason alone, you should at least attempt an auto window repair.

There are various sources which can help you on your quest. Look into them deeply, making sure that you are one hundred percent comfortable with doing this prior to getting your hands dirty.…

Things to Consider Before Buying a House Replacement Window

Owners of houses built over decades ago encounter several problems relating to house maintenance. Oftentimes, the window glass or window panes are the cause of major concern when it is found that it is in need of replacement. Some of the homeowners wanted to replace a window glass or the whole window frame in order to achieve a better quality of the heating and cooling effect it provided for the entire household. Glass is one of the choices that can be given consideration. If you are planning to have your entire home to be remodeled including window replacement, the following tips can be a great help for you:

Size of the window

Be sure to calculate the size of the window before going to stores or shops offering several window types, window frames and window designs. Some of the window glass needs quantitative enumeration of the window size for them to evaluate the appropriateness of the window replacement.

Style of the house

Choose windows that would best suit the style of the house. Always consider the home design since there are several window frame varieties such as clad, wood, aluminum, steel, fiberglass and vinyl to choose from. Do not be mesmerized by the color presented to you in the window glass shops and do not be fooled by some wicked businessman who would suggest an inappropriate window frame as a window replacement.

Secured warranty

Always remember to ask for warranty information and installation techniques to avoid problems encountered during and after the replacement procedure. This must be given attention so that time and effort shall not be wasted by repeating the whole procedure all over again. Further cost will also be prevented.

Efficiency

If energy ratings are not being posted on the window, ask the store or shop owners for its efficiency rating. Never forget the U and R factor. U factor is the measure of the energy transferred from the outside to the inside while the R factor is the ability of the window to contain energy in any climate or weather condition. These factors should be given priority in choosing a window replacement.

Quality

Purchase the window which has the highest quality. The more expensive the window is, the higher the quality it has. Prices are also dependent on the quality of a window.

Window replacement is a major investment which should be prioritized. Better have all the needed resources and information before finally deciding on what must be done with the house maintenance. Ask further advice from reliable window glass shops or store owners. Never forget to consider the pros and cons of glass to avoid regret and further expenses. Be vigilant and alert enough with regards to your window replacement needs.…

Choosing The Right Windows For Your Home

One of the most difficult aspects of building a home is the design. It’s incredibly hard to make decisions on interior decor when you are building new and you don’t have anything to compare all the different options to. From the little bits and pieces like fittings, doorknobs and sinks to colours, curtains, doors and windows, there are choices at every turn and it’s sometimes difficult to envision what a finished build will look like.

Responsible for all the natural light in the home, ventilation and the atmosphere indoors, windows play a huge part in the design of your home.

Not sure where to start when it comes to choosing the right windows for your build? Use some of these techniques to pick the right materials for your home.

Maintenance-Free Clad Windows

Unlike painted wood windows, clad windows never need painting or maintenance. With a prefinished aluminium or vinyl covering the wood, choosing clad windows means you never have to worry about repainting after years of use and weather damage. If you have the budget for the slightly higher initial cost, consider clad windows for their ease and for the extra value they add to a property.

Seeing What Looks Good

Don’t just make guesses trying to imagine how your home is going to look – window and door software lets you view exactly what your home will look like when completed. The latest in 3D design applications take all the guesswork out of home planning and put the power in your hands. Try a range of sashes and materials, switch out awning windows for single or double hung ones and choose the right look and function for your home with ease.

Hardware to Suit Your Style

Don’t just consider the positioning and the framing that you use to fit the decor of your home, think about the hardware your window uses and how that fits into your design as well. There are plenty of different hardware mechanisms for operable windows – choose one that suits the look of your home.

Single and double hung windows both use a latch on the sash to keep the window in place. Hung windows look fantastic and feel great, but can wear easily with time unless properly maintained.

Awning windows open and close with a crank in the windowsill and are a less common sight than other window types. Alternatively a simple latch could be used to hold the sash closed; awning windows suit kitchens and bathrooms – especially where you want to limit the gap created.

Casement windows are some of the most common and can be big while still easy to open. Notched handles hold the windows open and fold down to stay low-profile when the window is closed.

Take the time to choose the right windows. Explore your options and create the perfect home to suit your style and decor.…

Shutters in Different Weather Conditions

Window Shutters can be used in different ways depending on the weather conditions. They can be used either to make the most of the weather or make a building more comfortable in the conditions. The ways in which they can be opened and closed make them more adjustable than curtains and allow this control. This is especially the case with louvered shutters. In fact, this is their very purpose.

IN THE SUMMER

In the summertime homes can get uncomfortably hot. This is the very reason why window shutters were first inventing in the Mediterranean. In extremely hot weather shutters can be completely closed, shutting out the blistering sun. This will protect the home from the heat as the sun cannot shine through shutters as they can with curtains. But there are many other options on top of completely open or completely shut. Having either the shutter, or the shutter louvers partly open can mean air is emitted without letting in all the heat. This can be used to cool down a room. With most fittings a shutter is fixed on either side of the window so they meet in the middle, allowing them to be opened and closed separately. They can be opened however the user sees fit, and open at angles meaning the sun can be blocked out while allowing plenty of air and light to enter a room.

IN THE WINTER

In the winter shutters can be used for the opposite affect: to insulate against the cold. The thick wood typically used for window shutters means they are much better at insulating a home than curtains or blinds. This can mean significant protection against the cold.

On a sunny winters day shutters can be used to keep a room warm while still having the advantage of the sun. Of course, like curtains, they can be completely open, but there are other options that still allow for some insulation without blocking out the daylight. The louvers can be opened, or the shutters can be open on one side and closed on the other or anywhere in-between the two.

AS IT GETS WARMER

As winter turns into summer windows can be opened to keep a room cool, while the shutters can be closed to keep it warmer than if everything is kept completely open. They can be adjusted perfectly to the exact conditions. For example, the shutter slats can be open with the actually shutters closed. As it gets warmer more air can be let in.

NATURAL DISASTERS

Another advantage of shutters is that they can be used to protect against extreme weather such as hurricanes or tornadoes. Exterior shutters can be used to protect windows as they are very durable. After a natural disaster windows can make a home extremely cold or unsafe, but shutters can potentially protect against this. Interior shutters will not protect the windows but could still protect the interior of the home and the people inside. All this depends on …

Window Replacement – Efficiency Ratings, Types And Features

The US windows & home windows industry is worth more than $12 billion, according to figures from the US Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA). The industry is currently experiencing a drop due to low levels of investments in the residential property segment. The low levels in residential property investment have been brought about by the leveling home prices as well as the soaring cost of energy and interest rates. The above trends have dealt severe blows to the builders market than any other segment of the building and construction segment. Major players in the window manufacturing industry are well aware of these trends and have embarked on the following strategies in order to counter the effects of the above trends:

• Increased window replacement market emphasis as well as expanded efforts to meet the ever-growing demand presented by the nonresidential sector.

• Increased focus on the addition of impact-resistant and energy-efficient window products.

• Increased focus on potential foreign markets.

In recent years, manufacturers of new windows have come up with products that are highly energy efficient which have resulted in more attractive, quiet and comfortable homes. In determining the efficiency ratings of replacement windows, the following factors are considered:

• U-factor.• Durability.• Wind resistance.• Rain resistance.• Replacement ease.

According to the US Department of Energy (DOE), old and drafty windows are responsible for 10 to 25 percent of your total annual heating and cooling costs. New windows can cost anything from $7,000 to $20,000 according to the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA). Anyone looking to buy custom window replacements should be prepared to fork out an extra 15 percent of the above cost.

Efficiency RatingsThe higher energy efficiency in new replacement windows is as a result of the use of top of the range insulating features such as inert-gas insulation, low e-coatings and multiple glazing. The U-factor mark indicates the ability of the window glass to conduct thermal energy or heat. The reverse of the U-factor is the R-value which indicates the insulating ability of the glass. Anyone looking to replace windows should look for a window that has a higher R-value rating and a lower U-factor rating otherwise they might as well be throwing money through your windows. Such a window is guaranteed to keep your house cool during summer and pretty warm during winter. The best replacement windows have an R-value of two or three, which is similar to that of a wall devoid of insulation. The solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) is another vital window energy rating. It indicates the exact amount of sunlight that makes it inside the house once the rays of the sun hit the window. High SGHC numbers are ideal for cold climates, SHGC of 0.40 or less is ideal for warm climates while temperate areas require a SGHC number of 0.55 or less. Visible Transmittance (VT) on the other hand indicates the amount of visible light that a window is able to let …

Installation and Buying Tips For Window Blinds

Typically, there are two kinds of blinds. These are the horizontal and vertical window blinds. The horizontal blinds are common treatment for windows while the vertical ones are great for large window openings and glass sliding doors. These types are actually designed to come up with the right lighting coming from outside which is a natural source of light. Depending on the requirement of light these blinds can provide solution with your lighting and protection needs.

Another type of blinds is based on the width of each blind. These are the slat and solid blinds. Slat blinds are those whose slats are attached through a piece of string while solid window blinds are made up of one piece material which can either be fabric or vinyl. Roller shades and Roman blinds are best examples of these solid blinds while a Venetian blind is an example of a slat window shade.

Installation

Different type of blinds requires different method of installation as well. Here are basic steps to follow in installing a regular window shades. These steps are, however, applicable to almost all type although there are some slight differences. This is just to give you an idea of how the installation of window blind is done.

* For internal installation of the blind mark the point where the blind is going to be installed. This is the first step.

* Drill holes to your marked point where the brackets are going to be mounted. After drilling insert the screws on the bracket holes and start attaching them to the window. Do the same with the other side.

* If the window blind kit has an included valance attached it accordingly. If the head rail is not mounted to the valance/pelmet then mount the head rail into it with the use of clips. Be sure that the window shade can function freely without any interference with the clips.

* Finally, set the cord stop about 2 inches below the head rail. This will prevent the blind from opening all the way upward inside the valance.

Buying Tips

Before buying any window shades you need to consider first what specific requirement you need. Aluminum window blinds are great options for privacy purposes and window blinds made of wood are excellent trappers of heat during cold season. Whichever your preference is, try to coordinate wooden window shades color or the design of the fabrics with the interior decoration inside the room. Consider the wall color of the room, the upholstery and the image you want to create for the room to match with the chosen window blinds.…

How to Manage Your Web Properties

In this article we discuss what is actually mean by “web properties”. Let me say straightaway that what we don’t mean is advertising your real estate on a website – I guess they are web properties in a literal sense, but they are not the kind of web properties we are talking about here. No, here we are talking about web properties with regard to the Internet.

The term web properties can have several different interpretations. For those of you interested in tracking the performance of a web site, installing Google analytics is a popular method of achieving this end. According to Google, “a web property is the cumulative set of pages on which a particular tracking code is installed.”

In order to set up Google Analytics you must first have a Google account, which is free and quick to set up. Creating an Analytics account is a way to name and organize tracking for one or more web properties. Every Analytics user can access at least one account, and within each account at least one web property (such as a website) is tracked. Once the account is set up, implementing the tracking is simply a matter of copying the code Google generates and pasting it into the code for each page you want tracked.

By tracking, we mean carrying out an analysis of:

how many times the site was visited by people from unique IP addresses (visits)

how many times the page was shown (impressions)

how many times the page was requested from the server (hits)

which page most people entered the site from (entry pages)

which page they left from (exit pages)

the country the visitor came from

the words used most times to access the page (search string)

the kind of browser people were using (user agent) and

how this was broken down over time.

This information can be of great interest to anyone seeking to promote their website and having it appear near the top of search engine results pages.

Another interpretation of web properties could be the properties that HTML editors such as Dreamweaver create. These may include templates, pages, images, other media such as videos, sounds, snippets of code and script, and bits of useful information that Dreamweaver regards as the site’s assets.

When any page is viewed in Dreamweaver, the Properties Inspector window that sits across the bottom of the page gives context sensitive information about any property selected. For example, selecting an image will open a Properties Inspector window specific to the image, and allow you to alter the size, the location, the vertical and horizontal space, the border if any and the alignment and so on. It will also allow you to edit the picture in Fireworks or crop it, add a hotspot to it or link it to another file.

In contrast, when another type of property such as text is selected, the range of options becomes specific to text, so the editing options …

Solar Shades: 3 Immediate Benefits From Installing Them in Your Home

Choosing the right set of blinds for your home can be a daunting, nerve racking task. Depending on what is important to you (e.g. privacy, light control, aesthetics) will determine the right type of blinds for you. One set of blinds that have rose in popularity, due in large to the ‘Green Movement’, have been solar shades. Not only for their sleek and stylish design but also due to how economical and functional they are.

Solar screens are a popular choice for areas of the home that receive a lot of sun. They serve as a great way to limit solar heat gain, reduce glare while preserving views with several type of openness factors. Solar screens also known as solar shades are easy to operate as they work on a single roll function from the top.

Limit solar heat gain:

Solar screens block a substantial amount of sun light that enters your home. If you notice a room in your house that particularly receives a lot of sun and tends to feel like a sauna half the time then your current set of blinds aren’t doing it and should be replaced with these. Also, by reducing the solar heat in your home you tend to save money because your house temperature remains cooler without needing to blast the AC. Added bonus to reducing solar heat gain: money in your pocket from utilizing the AC less and less.

Reduced glare/UV rays:

Have a room with a huge TV? Notice that annoying glare when your blinds just don’t completely lock out the sun? This sounds like another job for solar screens as they come in several openness factors. The low the openness factor the less amount of sun/glare they allow in. By rule of thumb, shades (since they don’t have gaps like blinds do), are preferred when needing to block out as much light from a room as possible. However, unlike most shades, solar shades have the openness factor that allow for a happy medium of reducing the right amount of glare while preserving the beautiful view that’s right outside your window.

Another advantage to solar shades are the reduction in UV rays. UV rays are notorious for fading furniture. I can’t say how many times I’ve had to replace clients furniture because they were using the wrong type of window treatment.

Preserving view:

Other type of shades force you to pick between seeing your beautiful view and blocking the sun. Solar shades offer a compromise. If you notice in the picture of this article, the patio room is comfortably shaded and cool, yet you can still see the gorgeous scenery outside.…

Brighten Up Your Space With Stained Glass Windows

Stained glass window films, also known as window etchings or wallpaper for windows, are the most cost effective way to ensure privacy in rooms such as bathrooms, and they won’t break your bank account. Unlike actually installing etched or frosted glass windows, which can carry a heavy price tag, glass window films are so much more cost effective and very easy to install and can be removed later if desired.

Bathroom windows are some of the most common windows people seek to add privacy to. Other solutions include adding blinds or fabric drapes, but these solutions block the natural light that is so desirable in small rooms such as bathrooms. Stained glass window films allow all that natural light you desire to still flood the room while also adding beauty and color and most importantly, privacy.

Whether you are interested in stained glass films or window etching films, installation is very easy. Window films have come along way from the old window films that relied on sticky adhesives to cling to the windows, these old sticky window films where hard to install and very time consuming to remove later. Making a mistake or misalignment while installing films with glue backing could mean completely ruining the film and having to start over with a new film, this proves to be frustrating and costly.

Today’s window films cling easily to windows and all you need to install your beautiful, colorful films is a spray bottle of water and a razor blade. There is no special tools to buy and no messy adhesive to mess with. Just spritz your window with the spray bottle and place the window etching or window film on the window and it will cling to the window until you decide to remove it. Later if you decide to change films or simply remove it altogether, simply peel the film easily from the window and the film can be stored for later use.

Home self improvement is on the rise today. With the cost of hiring a construction company or a handyman, many home owners are tackling their home improvement projects themselves. Improving and upgrading the look of your homes windows has never been easier than it is today. In simply minutes you can change the entire look and feel of any room with very little effort. There is no reason why upgrading your windows look and feel can’t be done by anyone who has a desire to tackle such an easy job. Your friends and family will be amazed at the new look of your bathroom.

Whatever look you want for your bathroom, it’s available to you, with so many different styles of stained glass window panels to chose from you are only limited by your imagination. From floral to tropical, from classic stained glass to religious, there are so many styles and prints to choose from you can’t go wrong.…

uPVC Window Prices: How to Grab a Bargain When There Are So Many Offers to Choose From

The window replacement industry for many years brings to mind a real sense of peril for many a consumer, when it comes to the subject of replacing windows doors or a conservatory many people look with a sense of anxiety at the very thought.

With so many companies to choose from so many products and unfortunately so many stories of windows from hell, consumers are beginning to hold on to their hard earned cash and look before they jump into any agreement to replace their windows doors or provide a conservatory for their homes.

So where can a householder find a decent window company offering good products at a decent price? with real after sales care where the customer is valued and not taken for granted and where there are real guarantees regarding workmanship product and after sales care. Looking for an answer to this question one would need to review the types of window companies there are within the industry.

National Company Large Concern: The household names that everyone knows that have been around for years and who unfortunately still today employ the same sales techniques for the consumer to buy on the night or lose their discount for the show home, or need to speak to their manager before leaving for him took further discount. Even if a consumer is lucky enough to have a member of their family working for one of these companies and can therefore get staff discount these windows doors and conservatories are vastly over priced compared to their stable mates simply put because of overheads large office, staff levels and massive marketing budgets all take their toll on the final price offered to a consumer.

Local Companies: Local companies by their very nature can offer far better bargains than their larger counterparts however to say this is the prime area to find a bargain would be foolish, like all industries there are good local companies and there are most certainly bad. A householder is well advised to research the prospective window company before buying or allowing them to install in their homes. This can prove to be difficult as the local company after all will only show a consumer happy customers and not the real state of play.

The Internet, A twenty first century solution is where information technology really does come into its own,a consumer can now at their leisure check out a company by looking at their reviews see their prices before they buy and do all of this without having to put up with a sales person ever entering their home.…

Stained Glass Window Films For Homes

One of the most convenient and special method to redecorate a window is using stained glass window film. This new trend is fast becoming popular among home owners as there are various types of designs and patterns to choose from. Many home owners are becoming accustomed to this trend as a result of watching them frequently on favorite TV program and frequent featuring in home decor magazines.

There is more than just adding beauty to your home, the vinyl films also provide you with cost saving in electrical bills and adding seclusion to your lifestyle. The latest coatings can be applied to provide any glass with the effect of stained glass without the equivalent costing of substituting the windows with the actual ones. The merchandise can be placed through the internet or bought at hardware stores or home improvement outlets.

Owners who had tried it continued to comment positively about how easy it is to use them. You may buy them in big-format canvass and then trim them to fit correct measurements and designs of the windows. It is usually made from vinyl and there is no necessity for poisonous glue as it will remain stuck to the window.

Quoted as some of the many reasons for its popularity includes the enhancement and quality of the product and the simplicity of the application. Stained glass window films are good for the environment too. Light can still shine through the stained glass window film and this assists to provide the room with the brightness it requires without any other complementary lighting.

It also filters out up to 90% of ultra-violet rays that fades curtains and minimize heat penetration during summer. This way, your electricity bill can be greatly cut to a minimum.

Stained glass vinyl films also works perfectly for those who like a bit of seclusion but at the same time loves the fresh feeling of allowing sunlight into a house. All visitors see from the outside of the room is just a beautifully-designed window panes. However, what they did not noticed is that light are still shining through into the room. There is also less glaring and even at night, outsiders cannot see the inside even with the lights all switched on. The window coatings also provide some form of protection for your drapes and blinds if you wish to install them.

Stained glass window films can also be applied in shower enclosures too as it can withstand heat, steam and moisture. That is why they are becoming popular on shower doors and bathroom windows. Compared to draperies that may give a wrong perception to the size of the room, the product does not produce such an illusions.

Many people are amazed by the results of using such simple material and its ideas. With so many patterns and options to choose from, all designers will love them. You can even peel them off and reapply it on other windows or simply store them …

Choosing The Best Fabric Vertical Shade

Fabric vertical window blinds and fabric vertical shades are both highly decorative window covering options. There are numerous styles and designs to choose from, making it easy to coordinate with a particular look or theme. More than this however, these treatments offer numerous advantages when it comes to sun protection and energy conservation.

Shades with PVC backing do more than adequately block out light and provide your home with privacy. These interior coverings block out the harmful rays of the sun. This means a much lower potentate for skin damage and less wear and tear and some of your most beloved furnishings. They are also phenomenal at keeping cold air out in the winter time, and hot air out in the summer. This can mean lower energy costs the whole year round.

While many people rarely consider it a possibility, sun damage to the skin is possible even when you are inside the home. Relaxing in the sunshine, even while lying indoors can take a toll on the dermis, especially for individuals that are extraordinarily sun sensitive. With the right window treatments however, you can take a break from constant applications of sunscreen on days that you have decided to spend inside.

The colors of your living room were carefully chosen and placed just so, by you. The sun however, has other motives. When you have less than adequate protection provided by your window coverings, sofas, carpets and other items have a tendency to discolor and fade.

Finding the ideal fabric vertical shade provider for your needs is easy to do when you use the online consumer ratings and review. These will help you locate a reputable merchant that provides top quality products at the most competitive prices. With the right selection you can get the aesthetic appeal that you are seeking along with maximum sun protection and assured durability.…

Energy Ratings For Window Replacement

Window replacement is usually not a choice people like to make. They look at the upfront costs and find that the time it will take to recoup that cost will take, on average, thirteen years. What isn’t figured into to this equation is the increase in home value, the increase in immediate enjoyment and comfort, and, if using energy efficient casements, that the energy being used is being optimized.

Another benefit to look into is tax credits from either your state or federal government or both. Items like solar water heaters, additional insulation, and energy efficient products, are often subsidized by government. Rebates from manufacturers and in house sales at retail stores can save even more money. With good planning, the replacement cost of glazing (glass) products can be decreased between ten to forty percent.

The National Fenestration Rating Council or NFRC is a non-profit organization created by the door, window, and skylight industry. All of these products are rated by taking into account the efficiency and effectiveness of the whole product. Understanding how to read these energy performance ratings will assure you are getting the most efficiency you can afford.

Five characteristics of the window are rated for performance. These are classified as follows: condensation resistance, air leakage, visible transmittance, solar heat gain coefficient and the U-factor. These same ratings are used for doors and skylights.

The U-factor measures the rate of heat loss of an assembled product. The rating measures the insulating properties of the frame, spacers, and glazing (glass). U-factor values can range from. 15 to 1.25. When the factor is considered low (less than 0.30), it means the widow is better insulated. Increased insulation keeps the inside temperature in and the outside temperature out.

SHGC or Solar Heat Gain Coefficient rates how well the assembly blocks the suns heat. This scale is from zero to one with common readings of 0.25 to 0.80. Lower means better in the case of SHGC. A rating close to zero means the solar radiation transmitted through the glass and absorbed by the product materials is more successfully blocked. The free heat from southern exposure in the winter is usually wanted. When choosing windows for this orientation a higher SHGC may make more sense.

Visible Transmittance (VT) refers to the amount of light allowed through the window. The scale, again, is zero to one and the higher the number represents the amount of light and view allowed into the interior. Normal ranges are 0.30 to 0.80.

AL or air leakage reporting is optional at this time. This rating measures the amount of air that leaks out of a square foot of window space. Look for a rate of less than 0.30.

Condensation resistance (CR) speaks to how well the product prohibits the formation of condensation on the interior of the window. This rating is also optional at this time. The scale is from one to one hundred with a higher number equating to better protection.

Many …

User Enhancements From Microsoft Windows XP to Microsoft Windows 7 – May 2010

Microsoft Windows 7 is the newest generation of the Microsoft Windows operating systems, Released in 2009. It has many new features to enhance the way you use your computer. Windows 7 is now becoming the new standard of Windows, since XP stole the spotlight from Windows 98. It provides a more manageable user interface for today’s multi-tasker and better searching capabilities. It really takes the best of what Windows XP had and added form and function.

When Windows XP came out Microsoft got it right, a sleek interface and a speedy operating system. There really wasn’t that much to complain about, for the most part, it was point and click friendly. Nowadays, we are much more muti-task oriented. We install many more software applications, we save Gigabytes of music and video and we want to find everything within a click of a button. Windows XP just can’t keep up with us anymore. Windows 7 has search features on every window with updated caching for faster results. You can pull up applications in seconds without even using your mouse. Browse files in eight different view arrangements! With Window Snap feature, live muti-view taskbar icons, Sidebar and transparent windows, there are some great additions from Windows XP.

Let us start off with looks. At first glance you will notice that you have a sidebar. The sidebar to the right of your screen can hold mini applications like a calculator, calendar, clock, notes, weather, etc. You will notice that the start bar is semi-transparent and there may be quick launch icons, to the left, bigger then you remember. The quick launch buttons now look like normal open windows, except they are matte and not gloss looking, to signify they are not yet launched. Let’s say you open up two windows of internet explorer. You will notice the matte icon turn to a gloss looking icon. By scrolling over the internet Explorer icon on the task bar, you can reveal a nice square balloon window containing live previews of each explorer windows. This will give you visual reference to which window you want to open without taking up as much room. This holds true to other applications that can open multiple instances. To the right of the start bar there are the already lunched applications, and notification like your antivirus and internet connectivity. In Windows 7 you can choose to have these icons put away into separate floating boxes, only seen by clicking the expansion arrow. This will save you space on your start bar if you typically have a lot of starting applications.

Now to the new search features. If you click the Windows icon to the left, the start button, you now can type the program you want to launch and windows will find it. So if you want to quickly open an instance of Mozilla Firefox, just click the windows icon on your keyboard, to open the start …

Air Conditioning Tips For Landlords

If you’re a landlord, air conditioning can be a major asset. There’s a range of options for landlords to add significant value to a property at low cost with residential air conditioning. This can be a very simple exercise, requiring relatively low outlay to achieve best results.

Air conditioning and rented properties

Strangely, many Australian landlords still don’t seem to realize that the old days of the hot or freezing fibro shack or old Brick Veneer unit are long gone. The rental market is really characterized by standards of living, and the buildings without air conditioners really aren’t up to scratch any more.

The air conditioning is a positive for tenants, too, in terms of quality of life. People don’t mind paying a bit extra for a nice place. Air conditioners adds definite value for tenants, and is seen as value for rent money. Most tenants gravitate to better quality premises, and the air conditioners provides exactly that.

Value adding on rental premises

The simple fact is that cooling systems create commercial value for landlords. Air conditioning is a commercial investment for landlords, and a good one. It’s an important, in fact essential, upgrade for premises without it, as well and without it, a rental property instantly devalues itself.

In terms of value adding, air conditioning is an absolute must. There are whole generations of Australians who’ve never lived in a place without it and won’t even consider doing so. For many people, particularly those with allergies like hay fever, it’s essential to control their allergies. They can’t be expected to live in places without air conditioning.

Cost vs. returns

Returns on fully air conditioned residential properties are much higher in real terms. They pay for themselves by attracting and retaining tenants. Modern air conditioners really are comparatively cheap, for any modern home or unit, and the most expensive systems are paid for by less than half a year’s rent at the absolute most for a house. Air conditioning for units is significantly cheaper.

The only real costs after installation are likely to be for servicing, and that’s not required often. Digital air conditioners are a whole new generation of systems which are far less prone to mechanical issues and generally very durable.

Getting the air conditioner service you need

The next issue is getting service when you need it. Getting the service you need, when you need it, is easy. A bit of shopping around for the big name brands is the quick way to find the best services, as well as the best air conditioners. Parts and service are easy to obtain, and there are no real issues in getting prompt service for your tenants.

Suppliers also provide a good backup service, warranties on their work, and a clearly laid out set of charges. The top name brands, like Panasonic and Mitsubishi air conditioners are easily serviced locally.

You’ll find the entire process of getting air conditioning is simple and efficient from the …

Potting Bench – A Necessity for Container Gardening

Container gardening is the new fad these days. This type of cultivating plants in pots and cans can be very helpful especially for people who are living in small and confined spaces. Homeowners can simply choose the flowers and shrubs that they want grown within the confines of their tiny outdoor space.

Now, people don’t need to have vast planting beds or even own a parcel of land in order to grow their desired blooms. The only requirement would be is to have pots and containers around and homeowners can have some thriving vegetation up in their thirty-story condo or their fifth-story apartment. And, to make this an even more uncomplicated task, a potting bench should also be in place.

A potting bench is a necessity when it comes to container gardening. They are of big help to these revolutionary gardeners. Anyone involved in plant cultivation can attest to the difficulty and labor it takes in order to keep the shrubs, herbs and flowers in healthy condition.

We can’t negate the fact that plants need a lot of care and attention. A daily dose of water can keep them nourished every day. There is also the need to have them fertilized and pruned every now and then. In doing these activities, you will definitely be in need of supplies. Having to fetch them inside the house and putting them back in can eat up a lot of time and sap you of your energy. Not to mention the thought of having you twisting and crouching every so often to get to your plants on the ground.

Thus, you can make your container gardening fairly easy with this outdoor equipment around. You can do everything you need to accomplish within this working station only. You can do pruning, fertilizing, soil mixing and replanting all in one spot and at a comfortable position that allows you to stand and even sit on a tall chair. Aside from this, it can conveniently function as storage and display case saving you all the time and effort by heading only to one corner each day to carry out your enjoyable hobby…

Glass Block Bathroom Window Sizes and Designs – Mix Them Up To Add the Cool Factor

The reality is most people think “inside the box” when designing a glass block bathroom window. The determine a size they want, find a supplier and then leave it up to them to figure out what block sizes will work best. Although this approach may get you a window that is symmetrical and functional it won’t necessarily result in a unique window. So if you’re doing a replacement or new construction bathroom window why just stack up the blocks when you can mix them up for a cool and innovative design?

Here’s 7 steps to make your window design interesting and unique:

Step 1 – Determine your size – In a replacement or new construction window size does matter – but you may not always be limited to your existing size. If you’re doing a replacement window in conjunction with a bathroom remodeling project ask your contractor two questions. First – what size window would fit the existing opening. Second – how difficult it would be to reframe the window opening? Block windows can be sized in 2″ increments and unique design can be made by not just laying one block on top of another. For new construction ask your builder what sizing flexibility you’ve got. Make sure to have these conversations before the rough framing process begins (so you don’t incur any extra framing costs).

Step 2 – Identify what block sizes you’d like and mix them up – You can make one of a kind designs combining 4″ x 8″ & 8″ x 8″ blocks or consider using 6″ x 6″ with 12″ x 12″ units. If you really want to go wild use multiple glass block window sizes like 6″ x 6″, 6″ x 8″ and 12″ x 12″ for a dramatic appearance.

Step 3 – Choose a block pattern – Block windows are available in either high privacy or moderate privacy patterns. If the window is in the shower consider the highest privacy units (the Iceberg pattern is excellent for a shower). If the window is in the bathroom (not in the wet space) a more moderate wavy pattern may be the best choice.

Step 4 – Select clear, colored or frosted glass blocks – The cool thing is the blocks no longer have to be clear and colorless. If you want to add excitement to your window add colored and/or frosted units (and mix up the sizes) for a project that really stands out.

Step 5 – Determine if a framed or frameless window would work best- If you’re doing a window in new construction the vinyl framed block window (with nailing fins) allows the window to be installed just like a traditional new construction vinyl window. If you’re working on a remodeling project (where the size of opening cannot be changed) the frameless block window will work best and can be sized to 2″ increments.

Step 6 – …

Why Decorative Window Glass Is So Popular

Want to give a room a beautiful look without changing much of it interior? Then how about using decorative window glass? Decorative window glasses are available in many styles, designs and colors.

The best thing about these glasses is that they are extremely easy to install and maintain. They can be installed in any room, including kitchen, bathrooms and lobby to create a sense of privacy as well as ambience. Hotels and restaurants also use them extensively as well as stores and shops.

However, the most extensive use of decorative window glass is in homes. They create partition between two parts of the house without making it too congested and dark. Transparent and translucent glass creates a sense of space, provides ample light, while creating partition. Hence, these are great for kitchens and bathroom.

However, decorative window glasses are not just for cosmetic purposes. Frosted and tinted glass can also keep you healthy. Most people think that while indoors, they don’t have to worry about their skin. But experts tell us that the sunlight coming from our windows and glass doors is enough to harm us. These days, special glass is available that can stop harmful UV rays from entering your home. This can not only keep you and your family’s skin young, but also reduce the risk of various skin diseases, including skin cancer.

In addition, this type of glass also helps to keep your home cool and clean. It stops the sunlight from entering your home and hence reduces the affect of outer heat. You can save a lot of money on air conditioning during those scorching summer months and also help the environment by reducing your energy consumption. They keep your house clean by ensuring that you get a good view of the outer world, while stopping bugs and dirt from entering your home.

Therefore, if you are want to create a healthy atmosphere in your home without making the space look small and closed, and then choose designer window glass. You can choose the color and design of the glass according to the interior of the house. For example, if you have an earthy and informal feel to a room, you can use frosted colorless color to compliment the room.

Decorative window glasses have become a rage in interior designing. The sheer number of designs and versatility that they provide has made them a favorite of people who want a classy, beautiful home.…

Make Money Replacing Broken Window Glass

Owners or tenants pay you to replace broken window glass in their apartments or homes. This business idea can be either a part-time or a full-time way to make money, depending on the demand and your ambition. With the hard times we are having, people will be staying in their present homes longer, rather than trading up. This practice increases the demand for home repairs. (This is article #3 in a series of emergency handyman services.)

Requirements

This business idea is best suited for people who are physically fit and enjoy working with their hands. You must be able to remove and replace broken window glass and repair damaged window dividers. This refers to window panes held in wooden sashes with glazers’ points and glazing compound (putty).

You should own a pickup truck or van to haul equipment, materials, supplies, and trash. You need to own or purchase the equipment and protective gear required for this activity. You should set up a home office with the basic office equipment and supplies.

Getting customers

Since this is an emergency type service, you should be able to make money without much trouble. Use a simple classified advertisement in the local newspaper or on to get customers. Also, advertise in any property owner’s newsletter.

Preliminary job activities

After arriving at the job site and greeting the customer, inspect the damaged window(s). Use a tape measure to find the approximate inside width and height of the wood frame to receive the new glass. The customer may be in a hurry and want you to work on a holiday, weekend, or at night to get the glass replaced. In addition, you may be asked to come back later and paint over the cured putty bead to make it weatherproof.

You can use standard job bid forms to estimate your labor and the costs of broken window glass and any damaged window dividers. This bid should include the fees for any extra services to be performed, such as painting or staining, and hauling away any trash. If the customer accepts your bid, you both can sign the bid form.

Main job activities

Before starting work, put on goggles and heavy work gloves. Then use a wide trowel or shovel to pick up any visible pieces of broken glass inside and outside the damaged window. Place these pieces in a sturdy cardboard box. Then lay down a plastic sheet to catch any more pieces that may fall down.

After heating the old putty, remove all remaining pieces of broken glass. Place them inside a sturdy cardboard box. Then use a chisel, putty knife, or utility knife to remove all the old putty from the window sash. Replace any damaged window dividers. Use a whiskbroom or small paintbrush to clean the wood where you removed the putty. Then apply linseed oil to all the bare wood.

Use a tape measure to find the actual inside width and height of the wood frame …

Security Window Film

The use of window tinting has brought many benefits for car owners. This same benefit has now been brought to homes and offices where they are now being installed on windows. The benefits provided by these window tinting include UV ray protection, privacy, anti-glare and anti-graffiti among others. In addition to all of these above benefits, window tinting can also be used in adding a layer of security and safety to homes and offices.

One way that home window tinting adds security to homes is that outsiders find it hard to see the contents of homes that have tinted windows. Due to this uncertainty, intruders are not sure whether the home is occupied or not and thus are unlikely to trespass and steal. Moreover, they are not also able to see if the home contains valuable items and thus are less tempted to break in and steal. Using security tinted film is a cost effective method of protecting the contents of the premises compared to hiring security personnel. In addition to protecting against thieves, security commercial window tinting also provides protection against natural disasters, explosions and vandalism.

One of the biggest concerns of homeowners is the security of their family and household items. Businesses also have the same concern when it comes to securing their property and employees. Installing security window films acts as deterrent against criminals from breaking into the home or office. In fact, in most robbery cases, intruders mainly break into the home or office through the windows. Thus, installing residential window tinting is a good way of protecting your property and keeping the people inside safe.

In addition to protecting the home and offices against intruders, security window films also offers protection against severe weather elements. Extreme weather conditions such as storms, tornadoes, hurricanes or strong winds can cause windows to break or scratch. Replacing these widows is very expensive and thus utmost care should be taken by installing security films. These films are available in various styles and colors and are very cost effective. By using security films, homeowners do not have to worry about using boards to block the windows.

Owners of buildings, especially those containing plenty of glass,are prone to explosions or other forms of attack. Even though these buildings are made using high quality windows, the impact the explosion is likely to case the windows to break into pieces.However, installing residential window tinting helps reduce the chance of these windows breaking. The use of the window tinting adds a layer of protection on the windows and prevents them from shattering in the event of an explosion.

The benefit of security film used in homes and offices is that it not only offers security for the windows, but also provides other benefits. For instance, these films also eliminates the penetration of ultra violet rays, acts as anti-graffiti, provides privacy and helps in heat reduction among others. This means that users of security films will benefit from much more than just …

Is a Wall Mounted Air Conditioner a Solid Investment?

A wall mounted air conditioner is used to cool a room down; in some cases depending on the size it may cool down many rooms. These are a great option when a window is not available to mount a window unit it.

They are also a perfect solution for commercial applications where a room is enclosed for a host of reasons. These types of units are the perfect solution for a host of applications. They come in many different sizes and can cool things down quickly and efficiently.

Where They Are Used

Many times you will see a wall mounted air conditioner in hotels, motels and inns. They are favored in this capacity because they give each guest the ability to regulate the temperature in their own rooms; this is a great feature that is much appreciated by the guests.

There are really large units that are mounted in commercial settings, or in office settings. They are used in rooms where high tech equipment is stored like servers and other necessary communication equipment.

The wall mounted air conditioner is set at a low enough temperature to keep the equipment from over heating. They are used in factories for the same purpose. Of course these are fairly large units that are meant to function in a specific area to keep things pretty cool.

In the home they are used to cool down specific zones or to keep a room cool that does not have the capacity for a window air conditioner. They are more powerful than a window unit many times and are preferred because they do not block the window and do not pose the risk of falling out of the window.

They are usually rather inconspicuous in the home. They are mounted near the ceiling where the most good is done cooling the air.

Purchasing

Obviously purchasing large units for commercial applications is a bit different than purchasing one for the home. You can purchase a wall mounted air conditioner for the home from many different sources. Most home improvement stores will carry them as seasonal items. You can also easily purchase one of these great units directly from the manufacturer in most cases online. There are many manufacturers that will sell directly to the public via their websites.

Many times theses websites will offer tech support for installation, how to videos and even an eight hundred number so you can talk to someone about installing your window mounted air conditioner.…

When Window Decorating, Design Is Everything

However, I would suggest that there are two (often over looked) components that bare witness to the success of the project. First, is the type of decorating fabric selected for the window fashion; second, is the fabrication method used to construct the treatment. Let’s assume that the proper color analysis has been done, and that is not at issue. As someone who both designs window treatments and constructs them, I most often find that it is the incompatibility of fabric and design that can lead to unsatisfactory results and an unhappy customer. From my own experiences, here are examples of what to do, or not!

By type of fabric, it is meant: silks, damasks, jacquards, chenilles, chintz, velvets, linens, embroideries, small patterns, sheers, etc. – there are too many to list completely. In any category of fabric, the properties of weight and stability have to be taken into account when planning the design. For example, there are damasks that drape beautifully and are well suited to a lovely swag treatment, and there are damasks that would be too heavy and inflexible for this style but perfect for upholstery or perhaps a cornice. Silks, very lightweight, do best when they are left to soft folds and gathers. If you prefer a neatly pressed and tailored surround, then you will not be satisfied with silk unless it has, at the very least, been knit backed. The faux pas with Sheer fabrics is that they are not used nearly enough in homes today. I am not referring to the standard voile or batiste, but sheers and casements that sparkle when the sun shines through, have bold stripes of tone on tone or subtle texture. Layered or alone they can do more then open and close on a traverse rod. If weighted properly, they can look fantastic in many designs, from simple shades to elaborate arches. Chintz (very stable woven) is a classic for bed covers and rod pocket curtains, but then you may want to search for a hand printed chintz and keep the design simple. The formula is; edited design + exquisite fabric = gorgeous!

All-over patterns are versatile for most designs, because they do not have a true upright. They are wonderful for swag topped drapery panels, because the swag overlay can be cut on the bias without disrupting the overall look – and a swag cut on the bias is much happier! When designing with a solid, either cotton or a blend, the best recommendation is an added coordinating fabric banding or piping. This is the perfect place to add a bias stripe piping to update and customize. As for fabrics with a large pattern repeat, the design has to incorporate the area of the repeat that will be framed in the valance so that it looks balanced. If the pattern is too large for the scale of the picture frame, the design (or fabric) should be altered. So then the question arises, what …