french patio door

Antique Door Knobs - It Would For Sure Fascinate Visitors!

2010-04-05T01:30:00.001-07:00

Spending time with decorating? Do you want full renovation or you just have something you want to be replaced in your home? Well, if you might be giving time to beautify your house, feel free to consider having antique door knobs perfect for your house's door. It would for sure give more spice and elegance to your door. And perhaps, it would be something your visitors would want to talk about for the day. If they do, make sure to fascinate them more about this antique door knob you have.

Many people or families want to always make their houses look good and accommodating. They feel like when they have something good at home, most visitors would likely to ask about it and then after, a great conversation would begin. That is what most people want to achieve that is why great advices are needed particularly when designing their house. If you are one of those eager ones who would take everything to get something good, then try to take into account antique door knobs.

• When you decide to buy antique door knobs whether from furniture stores near you or through online, try to first compare prices. Prices always vary depending on what you will purchase. In terms of antique, you must bear in mind that it is much expensive than others in store. Yet, you do not have to worry much about the amount. Because it is in no doubt that antique door knobs are worth the price.

• Take a closer look at every piece which makes it up. Installation would depend on what each part there is. The nails and screws have a lot to do with installing the doorknob at your door. So, it is really a must to look for every details and information about the doorknob which you will be purchasing.

• Always go for the quality. When purchasing anything particularly if it would be use everyday, you must keep in mind all things about it such as the manufacturer, as well as their reputation. You might wonder why it is important to know and consider their reputation. Manufacturing companies with good reputation always produce high-quality products. So, if you want to spend your money wisely on to something, be sure to buy it from reputable ones. Because they are for sure the one who make high-quality and long-lasting things in the market.

It is fine to be choosy especially when you want to achieve great things for you to use. Antique door knobs would be lovely and suitable for your home if you keep in mind every details of it before purchasing. It is indeed a great choice and used by many nowadays. So when you happen to think of how your house could be accommodating for every visitor, fascinate them with antique door knob right before they step inside your house.

How to Replace Your Own Door

2010-03-30T08:10:00.001-07:00

You can save yourself time and money in remodeling when you replace your own door to a room of your home. It is not a hard task to complete, even if you have never done such a project in the past. When you buy the door you want at the home improvement store, the salespeople there will give you advice about how to tackle this job. They will tell you the tools you need to have, which include:

* Utility knife

* Circular saw

* Hammer

* Plane

* Sandpaper

* Screwdriver

* Chisel

It is also essential that you have a measuring tape.

Start by removing the old door. To do this you have to unscrew the hinges from the door frame. You can take the hinges and the doorknob off the door if you want to reuse them on the new door. If you don't want them anymore and are going to dispose of them anyway, just leave them on the door.

Lay the new door on top of the old door, making sure that all edges are perfectly aligned. Mark the areas on the new door when the hinges need to go. This will also let you know if you have to trim any of the edges of the door that might be larger than the old door. This is why you will need a saw and sandpaper. Use a utility knife or marker to draw a line along any edges that may need to be trimmed, making sure they are straight.

Add the hinges to the new door and install the doorknob. If you are using a new doorknob, it is not necessary to replace the catch in the doorframe, as long as you put the knob in the same place as it was in the old door. Rehang the door to test the fit. You may get it perfect the first time or you may have to take the door down and make a few adjustments.

What Are the Features of UPVC Doors?

2010-03-26T10:09:00.001-07:00

The very new kind of door systems that has hit the market is the UPVC doors. These kinds of doors have completely replaced the old wooden doors. If you have used wooden doors then you must have seen that every year you have to paint the doors to keep it in a good condition. But in case of these doors of UPVC you do not have to invest so much for the maintenance.

These kind of doors are very different from the wooden doors because they have very effective insulation power. Also, the process of cleaning them is quite easy. While you use these doors you will not have to face any ugly cracks.

One of the important features of these is that they come in a variety of shapes and sizes. So it really does not matter how big or small your home is, as these doors fit all kinds of homes. Also the unique feature of double glazed makes these doors very safe and better insulated.

Also, with the UPVC doors you can make your room look much more beautiful. One of the features which make them so much interesting is the fact that it comes in different colors. So you can choose your doors according to the color of your room. Another important characteristic of this door is its multi locking system. This system gives you the perfect protection.

They come in a variety of designs and styles. Some of the styles are sliding, tilt and turn, combination, French and casement doors. You can choose one according to the requirement of your room.

Some of the important features of these types of doors are as follows. Firstly they give you full insulation. Secondly these doors are completely weather proof. Thirdly they save a lot of energy by lowering the cost of air conditioner. Fourthly you will get a whole range of doors in different styles and colors. Fifthly these doors are so strong that they protect your home from any kind of storm.

With these new kinds of doors you can experiment a lot. Various attachable accessories are found in the market which you can fix with these doors. This will make your windows and doors look much more attractive and stunning. Some of such attachable accessories are chains, handles, cat flaps, letter boxes and door knockers, spy holes.

So if you are planning to buy the UPVC doors for your home then the best option will be to go for the branded products. There are various branded top companies which will provide you the best quality of UPVC products. Another good part about the branded companies is that they are usually quite reliable and supply high quality products.

Epicurean Morocco - Moroccan Cuisine & What it Means

2010-03-26T10:06:00.001-07:00

Food transpires across language barrier or cultural divide. It is that one special element of life that can make a person feel at home even when "home" is a thousand miles away. Part of enjoying a visit to another region of the world is taking in all the wonderful tastes and smells that foreign cuisine can provide. Providing a window into what makes up a culture, food gives one the opportunity to explore different dishes. Morocco cuisine will not disappoint. There are a variety of places that let foreign travelers experience the vibrant flavors that go into Moroccan cuisine.

Some Good Restaurants

A Moroccan culinary experience starts at the Le Restaurant du Riad Monceau. This charming dining establishment is owned and operated by renowned French artist, Isabelle Aubry. The dining area is set inside the Riad accommodation area providing the ultimate dining experience for couples, families and friends. Menu selections features traditional Moroccan cuisine such as fruit kebabs with coulis topped with citrus fruit honey. Meals may be served in the main dining room, lounge area or poolside at quaint patio tables.

Travel 10 to 15 minutes outside of Marrakech to uncover the culinary wonder of Le Bo Zin. Here diners will delight in experience Asian fused cuisine in a vibrant setting. Most nights features the musical talent of DJ's that play a nice mixture of music. Once dinner has been cleared from the table, the music is kicked up a notch and the dancing begins. Staff members have been known to get out on the dance floor and dance the night away with guests. An outside patio area features comfortable sofas and music that is perfect for that after dinner drink with friends or a toast to the end of another great day in Morocco.

Arrival at Le Foundouk is unlike any other experience in Morocco. Many guests are dropped off by taxis or other transportation services at what seems to be a desolate location. From out of nowhere a man arrives clothed in beautiful garments carrying a lantern. This will serve as the diner's guide to the restaurant location. Walk down a small roadway and into the front door of the restaurant. Once inside, ancient Marrakech decor adds a stylish ambiance. Taking center stage is a magnificent candle chandelier that draws focal attention from every corner in the restaurant. Menu selections feature one menu of Moroccan cuisine while the flip side displays European cuisine.

Guests will enjoy an evening dining at Tanjia. This three story restaurant features a bar on the ground level and two main levels for dining. The bar is a great place to grab a quick drink and appetizer before dinner or enjoy the evening with friends. Venture upstairs to enjoy a great meal in the balcony area blanketed by an atrium that sprinkles water mists to keep the Moroccan heat down. After dinner enjoy the evening attraction of a traditional Moroccan belly dancing show.

Wind down a great day in Morocco with a stop at Café Arabe in Marrakech. This three level bar and restaurant serves up drinks and dinner that are an adventure all by themselves. Each level of the restaurant offers food and drinks. The roof top terrace affords some of the best views in Morocco. Menu selections feature traditional Moroccan dishes alongside Italian delights. Staff is personable and always available to refill a wine glass or bring the next course to the table.

One of the hidden gems of Marrakech is the Earth Cafe, owned and operated by Niam, a former up-scale california restaurant owner turned dalmation and organic olive farm plantation owner, opened a little restaurant in a small riad in the central part of the medina. Having some of the best and simplest mene choices around, your taste buds and satisfactory cells won't be left hungry. Niam also sells organic olive and argon oil from his farm here. This place is highly recommended and still left undiscovered. (I know, cause I'm his friend.)

Casablanca: Culinary Cuisine

For a culinary change of pace, take a trip to Casablanca to experience Kiotori. This restaurant holds the distinct honor of being the first Japanese restaurant in Morocco. Diners will be treated to authentic Japanese culinary tastes and smells with dishes straight from areas of Japan and Asia. Once inside the doors, diners are engulfed in simple Japanese décor that emits a Zen-like ambiance among personable and helpful staff members.

Another great dining experience can be found at the Tahiti Beach Club restaurant. Diner will enjoy scenic views of a nearby beach, botanical garden and city life in Casablanca. Menu selections are delicious portions of international cuisine that are sure to delight everyone at the table. Staff members are fluent in Arab, French and English. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

A visit to a Morocco restaurant or other on your Morocco holidays would not be complete without indulging in all the culinary aspects of the region as well. Each eatery and dining establishment offers a different twist on traditional Moroccan dishes while offering others from all realms of the cultural culinary world. Diners will not be disappointed, with the menu selections offered and will often find a need to ask for a second bite or try something new. One thing is for sure, Moroccan cuisine will not have diners asking for a doggie bag to take leftovers home. Every delicious bite will be consumed on site.

Home Decor - Break the Rules!

2010-03-22T08:17:00.001-07:00

Choosing your home decor can be quite confusing at times. Each style, whether country, rustic, or French country can be easily combined to create a style all your own! In years past, the theme of home decor was using one certain style, but in present times just about any combination works.

When decorating your home, your goal should be to create a coordinated and balanced design which is visually pleasing and offers a welcoming and warm atmosphere to your visitors and guests.

Country home decor usually includes an abundance of wood with a light colored stain. Cabinets and furniture are adorned with simple handles and knobs. The decor can be centered around one theme, such as sunflowers, cows, or roosters. Using a mixture of many accents is also very charming and effective. Often a large open country kitchen is found in a country style home.

Rustic home decor is another very popular choice. Worn wood, rich rustic colors and cedar are a few elements you will find in this style. Pictures framed in rough wood, wildlife figurines such as wolves, and shadowboxes containing fishing themed items are popular in this style. Exposed wooden ceiling beams and wood floors are often found in rustic decor.

French country decor has a warm and cozy feel that is also very welcoming. Some of the colors commonly used in this type of decor are red, black and white. Large, open kitchens are also very common in French country decor. You will find many homes in this style have stone floors or a stone fireplace, with gorgeous multi-paned french doors leading out to a beautiful, relaxing deck or patio.

In all of these styles you will find large spaces and huge family-oriented kitchens. Quilts, barnyard and farmhouse accents and wooden floors accented with exquisite country-style rugs are popular in all three styles. You can easily combine ideas and accents from each of these popular styles and create a look for your home that is unique and beautiful.

You don't have to play by the rules! Choose pieces you love, mix and match themes from each style and create a look for your home that your family and friends will love. Your home decor is all about what you and your family love, not what the magazines tell you is appropriate! Be different and daring, and do what is right for you.

Tips On Completing The Warm Home Feel With Country Curtains

2010-03-19T15:20:00.001-07:00

When you move into a new home or want to spruce up the home you are in, why not try a country theme. From time to time it is nice to change the theme in the scheme of things, when it comes to how our home is decorated. This can involve a complete makeover, or just a few changes in accessories. A change of wallpaper border, items hung on the wall, or a set of curtains, can dramatically change the way a room looks. Country curtains, roosters or chickens (geese have a theme of their own) sitting on shelves or hanging on the wall. Any decor you choose with a country or primitive theme is a wonderful way to make a fresh look to a tired room. Lets take a look at some country curtains and how they can be used to decorate the your kitchen.

Piper Classics, is an online store that offers many different styles and types of curtains to make your kitchen an extension of your personality. They have a large selection of country, primitive, and cottage decorating ideas, and more than a few curtains to go along with the theme. They offer beautiful designs in tiers, valances, swags, and panels, in an array of traditional, country, and primitive fabric designs. They also sell coordinating accessories to continue your theme throughout the room, and hardware that is just right to match the window coverings you choose.

One type of window covering you may want to consider is a swag design. Swag design is more a window treatment for a larger window, or perhaps a patio door or set of French doors. You will also want to pair the swag with one or more pair of valences. Swags are different from tiebacks, as they drape over the top of the window on special holders and do not require a regular curtain rod.

Valance curtains do require a curtain rod, and will also need to be hung with tiers as the valance is for the upper window only. These are beautiful for any window and can make a dramatic difference in the look of your kitchen, especially when matching accessories are used.

One of their country curtain designs: Huntington Plaid, is a homespun plaid in light beige and black, lined with muslin, and are 100% cotton. If you want more of a primitive country curtain style, Piper Classics offers many designs, one of which is the Berry Vine Tier Curtain. This primitive country curtain is a woven tan and dark red mini-check that offers a berry vine trim. These curtains are 100% cotton. You will find wonderful country curtains online to meet your makeover needs.

Dressing Up Your Interior Doors

2010-03-18T15:00:00.001-07:00

Improving the design of your home or your place of business is very important. It's often the small details that will make the difference in the look of your interior doors. This is not difficult to do, and can actually be a fun.

First and foremost important is going to be the trim around the interior door. There are so many different styles of door trim that you can choose from, so take your time and choose the best one that will fit your style and also your budget. Keep in mind that you will be able to install the interior trim all on your own, but there are some tools that you are going to need to complete this task - miter saw, nail gun, tape measure, center punch, nails, shims, and a level. The way that you install the trim is going to depend on what type of trim that you have. You can easily find video tutorials on the internet that will show you step by step how to install the interior door trim whether you are using corner blocks or not. These videos are easy to find.

Now once you have installed the interior trim you can begin adding some other small details to your interior door that will dramatically improve the look of the door.

Door handles are one very effective way to give your door some style. This may seem like an easy task to complete, but it's actually not. Have you seen how many different choices of style, shapes, material, and sizes that there are to choose from - thousands maybe even millions. So it can quickly become a daunting task.

But there is nothing like the feeling that you get when you finally make your decision and install the new door handle. This small little feature of the door will make you're a very happy person.

When you are looking for the perfect door handles for your interior doors you may want all of the same design for the outside of the door, but all different door handles to match the room. This is simple, and actually makes searching for door handles a little more fun because you get to choose a few different styles.

You can easily shop online for your interior door handles. This is one instance that I actually prefer to shop online because since there are so many different selections shopping on the internet allows you the opportunity to look at a lot more of these different choices faster than ever because you can visit so many different stores within minutes. There is no way you can even drive from store to store in minutes, let alone look at all of the different door handles.

Once you find the perfect door handles you can begin installing them on your own, or hire someone to do this for you. Installing door handles is something that you should definitely be able to do on your own. You can also find video tutorials on the internet for this do it yourself task as well.

Enjoy the new design of your home or office!

Installing An Exterior Door

2010-03-17T13:30:00.001-07:00

Installing an exterior door is one of the easiest of all door installations. Whether the door is installed in new construction or in a replacement situation, there are a few factors that make this an easy task.

The biggest reason this is a simple operation is that these doors come prehung. What this means is the door is already hung in its jamb. The hinges are mortised into the door and jamb and screwed in place. The door is held in position by the hinge pins, leaving the perfect reveal around the door and the jambs top and sides. The holes are also bored for the lockset and if necessary, for the deadbolt too. Exterior doors come in wood, fiberglass, and the most popular, steel. The two sizes are normally used for exterior doors are 32" and 36". With the sizes of todays furniture and appliances the smart choice is the 36" door. The standard height for a door is 6'8" but taller ones can be special ordered.

The exterior trim comes nailed to the jamb. This trim, called brickmoulding, is mitred and already installed, saving the installer(s) another step. These doors also have an aluminum threshold already attached to the legs of the jambs. All these things make the door and jamb one cohesive unit.

The standard jamb size is 4 and 1/2 inches wide. With the demand for a higher insulation R value in exterior walls, 2x6 framing is being used more frequently. Jambs to fit these walls, 6 1/2 inches, are becoming more common. Jamb widths can be made to order for whatever a projects needs are and would cost more.

To install an exterior door, first check to see if the rough opening is correct. The width of the opening should be 2" wider than the door itself (38" for a 36" door, 34" for a 32" door). For a rough opening height 83" will suffice for most door manufacturers. Also check to see if the framing and floor is reasonably plumb.

Door installation is easier with 2 people but can be done alone. Put the door in the opening from the outside. If you are working alone, tack the door to the wall through the brickmoulding, not driving the nails home. I like to use galvenized ring shank splitless nails that are used for cedar siding. They don't split the wood and the smaller heads are not as obvious to the eye. The ring shank feature gives them great holding power.

With the door tacked in the opening, go to the inside of the door and check the reveals around the door. There should be about an eighth of an inch all around the door. Shim the jambs of the door so the reveals are right. Check the door jamb on the hinge side for plumb. If it is not plumb, then the floor is out of level. One jamb leg or the other will need to be shimmed so the threshold is level. Now readjust the reveals by moving the door and jambs sideways in the opening to a point where the reveals are right. Once the door and jamb are in position, shim the jamb at each hinge and at the strike, top and bottom on the strike side. Nail the shims in place by nailing through the jamb, through the shims and into the framing. Check the door swing to see if it opens and closes properly. If all is well, go outside and nail through the brickmould using the splitless nails to nail the door frame to the house.

Most door manufacturers provide long screws that replace some of the shorter screws in the hinges on the jamb. The top hinge is the most important place to use one or two of these screws.
These screws go through the jamb and into the framing and keep the door from sagging over time.

Most doors come with an adjustable threshold. This may have to be adjusted up or down to create an airtight seal.

With the door securely in the opening, it is ready for door hardware installation.

Antique Doorknobs - Perfect For Giving Your Home a Vintage Look

2010-03-16T11:40:00.001-07:00

You love things that have a vintage look to them. There is something about them that just really tickles your fancy. If vintage is what you're into, then antique doorknobs are fixtures that will be right up your alley.

Antique doorknobs are really a great way to add to the overall look of your home and believe it or not there are actually a slew of selections to choose from. How so? Well, it is because they are available in a wide variety of shapes and designs and can be crafted from all sorts of materials while being finished in different ways.

For example, you can get one that is crafted from brass that has a round shape and is finished in a burnished red color. Or, you can get one that is made out of glass that has a rosette shape and is a rose color to match. There are a slew of others to choose from as well with some of those options being ones that are also made from glass, but this time around they have a smooth oval shape and are lavender in color, others that are made from metal, like bronze, that have a mushroom shape featuring a tarnished finish, and there are even ones made out of porcelain that are round or oval, are painted white, and even have different designs on them like flowers or birds.

You might think that getting a hold of antique doorknobs would be pretty difficult and you're right. But don't worry though, nowadays there are a slew of antique reproductions available that have the appearance of being vintage, but not with the same price tag.

What can also add to the overall look of antique doorknobs are the materials that they are mounted on. For instance, the glass ones mentioned above would probably be mounted on some sort of metal, including brass or bronze that has a lovely finish applied to it. Now, if you're not interested in those of the antique variety, that is okay because there are other style choices available as well including those that have a modern feel, others that are more on the contemporary side, and even colonial and cottage choices are available.

When purchasing antique doorknobs, or anyone kind for that matter, make sure to get the right one for the job. Yes, there are different ones for different things. Like, entryway versions are to be used on doors that go in and outside of the home since they have a keyed lock. Or, how privacy ones are for bathrooms and bedrooms since they also lock, yet don't use a key. There are also dummy and passageway versions. Dummy ones look like the fixture, but don't move and passageway ones don't lock. To check out all the choices, just go online for some comparison shopping.

So, if you love things that have a vintage look, or just want to add some classic style to your living space, antique doorknobs are where it's at. They have one stunning look that will definitely leave a positive impression on anyone who sees them.

Door Hinge - A Lot of Power in a Small Package

2010-03-15T11:15:00.001-07:00

Every morning you probably open and close at least five doors before you leave t o go to work. You close the bathroom door to jump in the shower. You open the medicine cabinet to get your toothbrush and toothpaste. You reach for your cereal to grab a quick bite to eat and the front door swings shut behind you before you leave. All of these doors and more would not work without a door hinge or two. And what would the world be like without this oh so important invention? Well picture going into and out of your house through a hole in the roof because you are no strong enough o move a large rock or slab of wood everyday in front of the entrance.

Hinges are surprisingly strong. They can generally do eight to ten times the work they are assigned. So the door hinge puts the power of the Roman goddess Cardea into your hands. And the best way to see the biggest variety of door hinges is to shop online. Don't drag yourself all over the city looking for that perfect hinge to complete your kitchen makeover. Instead browse the selection online and compare and buy hinges from the comfort of your living room.

There are several types of door hinge available. The most common is the butt hinge. This consists of two flaps with screw holes attached by a pin or a rod. To take the door down all you would have to do is remove the pins. You can choose to add finials or balls to the pins for a decorative touch.

Garage doors are usually attached with T-hinges. Shaped like the letter T the horizontal part is attached to the door frame while the vertical part is attached to the door. These hinges can be plain or ornamental and lift up rather than out.

If you have folding doors you might use a Soss hinge. Named for its inventor this door hinge is recessed into the door edges so when the door is folded it is completely concealed. It must be installed exactly or it will not work.

If dealing with cabinet doors the type of hinge you use will depend on the door type. There are three door types; lipped, flush and overlay. A lipped door has a lip cut around it and works well with most hinges. A flush door rests within the frame and works well with butterfly hinges. A butterfly hinge works like a butt hinge but is hung on the outside and is more ornamental ranging in styles from colonial to art deco.

The pivot hinge is made for overlay doors. One is mounted on the top and the other on the bottom with portions of each bent over and mounted to the frame and door resulting in a concealed hinge. Perhaps the most popular hinge is the spring mounted hinge. Fitted with a small spring inside this door hinge allows the door to close on its own, automatically.

So the next time you open or close a door stop for a moment to ponder the power and utility of the humble door hinge; it deserves it.

Why UPVC Is Best For Exterior Doors

2010-03-14T08:08:00.001-07:00

Exterior doors are an important aspect of any home improvement project. Front entry doors are the first thing that visitors to your home will see and you will want to make a good impression. One way to be sure of doing that is with UPVC doors. A UPVC door has several advantages over a wooden door. There's no denying that a beautifully finished wooden door is appealing. The question is, how long will that wooden door retain its appeal? In many cases, you will have to replace or repair the wood within a few years, as wood is susceptible to weathering and rotting. And it doesn't take long for that lovely glossy exterior to become a peeling eyesore. If you live in a listed building, you may have to choose timber doors and windows for your remodelling project, but anywhere else, UPVC replacement windows and doors can offer long term value.

The good news is that exterior home doors do not have to be white plastic. Although that is the finish most commonly associated with vinyl exterior doors PVCU is now available in wood effect finishes. Most manufacturers can offer your front entry doors, PVCU patio doors, conservatory doors and double glazed windows in light and dark UPVC finishes. They will look like wood, but will have the weathertight properties that are one of the main advantages of UPVC windows and doors.

And that's only the start. You can add a touch of style to your vinyl patio doors, external doors, and other plastic doors, with glass panels. These come in a wide range of finishes. You can add a touch of colour to external doors or outside doors with stained glass panels. If you prefer a more understated look, you can use plain bevelled glass panels with a subtle design.

Your PVC doors can let in as much or as little light as you wish. You may prefer just a small panel which allows you to see who's at the door as an alternative to a peephole. Another option is to have several glass panels which let light into a dark hallway area. As an alternative to including these in the front entry doors, consider putting frosted glass panels at either side of the UPVC doors. Even with frosting, there are different effects you can have, depending on the level of opacity required. If privacy is not a consideration when you remodel, external doors can have almost clear glass panes. However, there are different levels of frosting, and some outside doors allow only a little light to pass through while obscuring the vision of any unexpected callers.

If you plan to install plastic doors, then security may also be a concern. The good news is that the locks on UPVC exterior doors are among the most secure available. Not only can you get secure Yale locks, but the standard locking mechanism favours security, with a 'twist and turn' locking process that keeps the door tightly shut and weathertight. With security, insulation, weather resistance and a wide range of finishes, you can't beat UPVC exterior doors.

Door Hinges - Beautiful Fixtures That Serve A Practical Purpose

2010-03-13T06:55:00.001-08:00

Door hinges, where would we be without them? That's right, we wouldn't be able to open and close the doors throughout our homes, which would be a problem. Now, even though these fixtures serve a pretty important purpose does not mean that you have to settle for any old ones. In fact, there are many decorative selections available.

If you are wondering, how can door hinges be decorative, well, it is because of the fabulous materials that they are crafted from and the lovely finishes that can be applied to them. For example, you can get ones that are made from brass that have a lovely polished finish or others that are crafted out of bronze that feature an oil rubbed finish that is a deep maroon color, perfect for a house that has more of an antique type look going on throughout it.

Door hinges can be made from other materials as well, including stainless steel, copper, and aluminum to name a few. Alone, each is pretty pleasing to the eye, but the different finishes that they have can make them even that much more beautiful. Some of those finishes include Venetian bronze, satin nickel, polished chrome, burnished brass, bright nickel, dull chrome, and a slew of others.
What's great about door hinges is that believe it or not, they are available in different styles. Like, the antique ones mentioned earlier as an example. You can even get ones that have a colonial feel to them, featuring elegant scrollwork and looping designs. Modern ones that have a sleek look are also an option along with many others including those that are on the contemporary side and some that are more traditional.

Plus, along with purchasing door hinges for your doors, there are others offered by manufacturers for other things throughout your home as well. Like, you can get new ones for your cabinets, new ones for different types of furniture from tables to desks, and you can even get ones that are concealed so you don't even have to look at them if you don't want to.

To check out all the door hinges that are available, don't make the long trip to the hardware store. What you can do instead is just hit the Internet for some online shopping. Comparing products and their prices through all the online stores is a breeze, plus, when you do come across something you like and purchase it, it will be shipped right to your home. Really, shopping has never been so convenient since you don't have to step foot outside your home to do it.

Ultimately, door hinges do serve that practical purpose of allowing us to open and shut our doors. However, that does not mean that they can't be beautiful all at the same time. Nowadays there are many eye-catching options, perfect for adding the extra special touch to the doors in your home. So, don't settle for any old ones, make sure to get nice looking ones today.

Building A New Home-5 Key Issues To Consider At The Design Stage To Keep Your Budget On Track

2010-03-12T06:40:00.001-08:00

Five practical areas to discuss with your designer or to keep in mind when plan shopping for your new home project. Here they are and not in any particular order.

Roofline-The steeper the roof the more the cost in most cases. If you have noticed lately, there are allot of new home developments where the roof of the home is quite high and large. This is usually because the home itself is a smaller square footage and the roof makes it look bigger. Always remember that the roof area equates to more sheets of plywood, more shingles and more labor. Gable roofs are less expensive than hip or cottage roofs. I suggest a 6/12 roof slope or less to keep the roof cost on budget. You might want to discuss this with your designer.

Windows/doors-This is a crucial part of design. Let's look at a few things that effect overall cost. Obviously the amount of windows, size of the windows, whether they open or not, as well as rounded top glass will effect your budget. The average home usually has 12-15 windows. Opening or venting windows cost more than a fixed or picture window. Rounded glass can cost as much as double the cost of an average window so use them sparingly. Wood windows usually cost more than conventional vinyl (PVC) windows. A door example is a double French exterior door is more expensive than a standard patio door.

Wall heights-The trend in the new home building industry today is to design and build with 9 foot walls and ceilings. This gives a home larger feel vs. a traditional 8' wall height. This will affect the cost of the finished home as there is more wall area for drywall, siding, etc. In a 1500 square foot home or less, I would recommend 9' ceilings to take advantage of the space. Two story walls, referred to as balloon framing, really adds to the cost of framing.

Vaulted ceilings-This is a raised ceiling in the home, usually going to a peak. It is a great idea to integrate into the design if you want the cost of standard 8 foot high walls with the higher vaulted ceilings giving the perception of a lager space. There are typically two types of vaulted trusses used in a new home design. The first on is the Scissor truss vault which gives a gentler raised ceiling and is less expensive, and the second is a cathedral vault which typically is a full height vault with a ridge beam. You see these allot in a Chalet style cabin. (steeper vault)

Foundation-A full concrete foundation (8 foot basement) in most cases will cost more than a crawlspace or slab foundation. If you don't have allot of storage designed into the home, a full foundation may be required and is also a great re-sale feature. A sloped lot may accommodate a day-lite or walkout basement option as well. Basement development, as well as extra space over a garage, are the least expensive ways to add square feet to a home.

So if you are about to get plans designed for your new home or just looking for a plan online, keep this five points in mind. Your wallet will thank you.

Accessories For Your Door - Hardware Options For Architectural Doors

2010-03-11T06:20:00.001-08:00

Installing an architectural door in your home is like hanging a work of fine art in your living room. Great time and care has gone into the decision to purchase your "work of art." You've spent hours deciding on the right decorative theme. You've selected your favorite colors. You've compared the work of several "artists" before finding the product that perfectly suits your taste, home and lifestyle. An architectural door, like fine art, is not a mere afterthought. It's a carefully-planned and sought out part of your home that is meant to stand out and be appreciated. And like enjoying every color and tiny brush stroke of your work of art, no detail on your architectural door has gone unnoticed. That includes the type of hardware you choose.

When speaking of "hardware," this refers to those smaller parts of the architectural door that "accessorize" it: doorknobs/handles, hinges, lock mechanisms and virtually any other piece that is added to the door itself after fabricating. All of these hardware options for architectural doors are functional and necessary parts of any door. However, they should not be afterthoughts. A carefully chosen piece of hardware can be both highly functional and as aesthetically pleasing as the rest of your architectural door.

Choosing hardware options for your architectural door should be an integral part of the design process. Anything you choose should complement the design of the door but not detract from the overall aesthetic quality of the "picture" as a whole. There are a number of hardware options to consider when you begin to design your architectural door, including:

* Door pulls. There are various styles of door pulls to choose from. Traditional knobs are rounded or spherical. Lever-style handles are grasped and turned in a clockwise motion to release the inner latch. Handles, which are common on commercial doors, are grasped with the hand while the thumb presses a very small lever-style button to release the catch. All of these hardware options come in an array of colors, materials and designs.

* Hinges. The most common type of hinge is the butt hinge. It consists of two plates which are attached to abutting surfaces on the door and door jamb and are joined by a pin. Other types include pivot hinges, Baldwin hinges, spring hinges and pivot hinges. Most types are available in a variety of colors, materials and finishes to complement any architectural door design.

* Locks. Door locks may be part of the door handle/pull itself or may be a separate piece. Locks may be purchased as a set with the door pull. They may also be purchased separately. If so, it's important to choose a lock that comes in a similar style, color and finish as the door pull.

* Door closers. This is a hardware option that is almost always found on commercial doors. They are not typically installed on residential doors. However, door closers can be an added security feature in a residential home, especially where there are children who may not always remember to close the door behind them.

Every detail of your architectural door should be carefully planned in order to create an overall "picture" that is eye-catching and tasteful. Fortunately, the abundance of hardware options for architectural doors will allow you the chance to be creative and to express yourself with a home that speaks of sophisticated class, right down to the very last detail.

Office Wall Decor - Office Wall Decor Ideas for Maximum Efficiency

2010-03-10T04:00:00.001-08:00

Office wall decor, if executed correctly can easily boost the work culture in any office. It is quite easy to design an office interior with wall decor as a major area of attention.

In any office walls occupy a major visual attention in the form of cabin partitions. In most cases an office space is a large area with fiberglass or wooden partitions designed carefully to form a grid pattern. Each individual grid square is then consumed as a cabin.

So glass walls make a good visual connection between the adjacent cabins. However erecting glass walls can be an expensive affair and have much les scope as far as wall decor is concerned. So using fiber or wooden partitions can be a great alternative. But again if you are seeking visual connection between various areas of the office space a combination of glass and wooden partitions can be the best option.

The walls in an office space can be used to display "inspirational" picture frames that will "educate" the office workers about team building, leadership, success, motivation, goal setting. etc. Simple picture frames are available in gift stores, which can be hanged at prominent places that will "remind" the workers of these good virtues.

If wooden partitions are used as walls then horizontal paneling with grooves running across the length of the wall can make a feeling of "more" horizontal length of the wall and will help the office space look bigger. Colors of office wall decor theme can be simple white/blue combination that will form a design pattern and easy to execute and repeatable.

Design the wall décor in such a way that if the company for which you are designing the interiors, if decided to expand in a new space, the entire theme must be easily replicated in their new office premises easily.

Finish the Job With Finish Hardware

2010-03-09T03:30:00.001-08:00

Doors in commercial buildings require a minimum of finish hardware, including hinges, flush bolts and pivots. Doors can also be outfitted with a variety of decorative hardware, including kick plates and door pulls. Which hardware is installed is determined by door use, architectural style and safety concerns.

A hinge may just seem like a hinge, but each hinge is designed for use in a particular situation. For example, a basic five-knuckle plain bearing full mortise hinge is designed for use on a standard weight door that gets little use. It also cannot be used with a door closer. On the other hand, a three-knuckle spring hinge can be used with a door closer. When purchasing hinges, tell your supplier the weight of the door, the expected traffic level and the details of any other devices that will be installed on the door. This way you can get the correct hinge for the job and not find the door literally coming unhinged in the future.

Doors can also be fitted with pivot sets. These are typically floor-mounted, although some are jam-mounted. Pocket pivots are also available. These allow the door to open flush to the corridor and are commonly found in hospitals or other settings where the door needs to be completely out of the way when open. Just like hinges, pivot sets need to be selected based on the weight and expected usage of the door. Pivots are available for doors from 200 to 500 pounds. Some pocket pivots are also rated for use on fire doors.

Flush bolts and strikes are designed to work either on metal or wood doors. Options for this hardware include manual flush bolts, automatic flush bolts, constant latching flush bolts, auxiliary fire latches and dust proof strikes. The best flush bolts share some common features: meet ANSI A156.3 Type 25 or Type 27, are non-handed, offer optional dust proof strikes, and have low actuation forces. You'll need to know how the door frame is prepared when ordering flush bolts.

Put the finishing touches on a door with decorative, yet functional hardware. Kick plates and push plates protect the door from damage. Pulls can be coordinated with the decor of the building. These items are available in a variety of finishes. Floor stops, wall stops and door silencers all improve the function of the door. Even these hardworking items are available in design styles to complement the building design or to blend unobtrusively into the background.

Finish hardware should be chosen carefully to ensure a door works properly and safely for many years. Although home supply stores may carry some basic hardware, it's best to rely on an experienced commercial hardware supplier to get the proper hardware for each installation.

French Door Window Treatments - You Have Plenty of Options!

2010-03-08T02:15:00.001-08:00

French doors, also named French windows can be used for different purposes - they are very popular as patio doors, as dividers between large living spaces, and as doors to a balcony. There are modern and traditional French doors and both of them create an inviting and a relaxing atmosphere in a room.

Usually French doors look wonderful even without any additional dressing, but if you wish to cover them, you have plenty of choices. To decide what kind of French door window treatments is a best one just for your interior, determine first your needs and wishes: do you want to get more privacy and light blockage, or are you just looking for a beautiful dressing for your French door? And don't forget about your existing interior style.

Variations of French door window treatments:

Horizontal mini blinds

You can choose wooden, aluminum, or vinyl mini blinds. It depends on your budget, taste and on your entire room appearance. With wood blinds you will get a classic informal look in the room, while aluminum blinds better match modern interiors. Vinyl mini blinds are a very practical choice, especially for high humidity areas, like bathroom or kitchen, but they may look not very attractive in such living spaces as living/dining room, patio, or a bedroom with a balcony, especially if you want your interior to look stylish.

If you decided about this kind of French door window treatments, keep in mind, that horizontal blinds need enough space when they are completely opened. Look for an appropriate slat size. Wooden mini blinds usually come in 1" slat size, while vinyl and aluminum mini blinds can be 1/2" or 1". Some manufacturers provide special shapes for their blinds. You may consider so called "cut-outs" option, if you order custom made window blinds and need space for door knobs.

Fabric French door window treatments

Draperies - most traditional type of window treatments for French doors. There are endless of variations. With a wide range of fabrics and drapery styles, you can not only make your French doors more stylish, but also give a finished look to the entire room. If the space of the room allows - hang your draperies wide and high enough above the doors. It provides an additional elegance to the room and makes a door movement easier.

Sheers - you can hang them on your French doors using drapery rods on the top and the bottom of the doors. However, many people don't like sheers because of their outdated look. You may consider screen shades or solar roller shades instead, which still provide outside view, protect furniture from sun rays and also reduce glare. You can install these shades in addition to draperies, or without them.

Window Shades

Fabric roman shades - look nice for many interior styles - contemporary, country, classic, and so on. The level of privacy and light blockage depends on the type of fabric you select for your shades. As for your roman shades styles, you can choose one that you like the best and that match best your room interior.

Bamboo roman shades or bamboo roller shades go well with several interior styles - modern, orient, exotic, even classic. Depending on their texture, these shades may gently diffuse light, or block it completely.

If you choose blinds or shades for your French doors, consider to get something that holds them on the bottom and prevents from flopping when you open and close the door. For horizontal blinds you can install hold-down braclets, and for roman shades some people use Velcro. You may also find your own solution.

Deciding on Modern Patio Doors

2010-03-07T00:55:00.001-08:00

Looking at modern patio doors can be overwhelming if you don't have some sort of idea of what you are looking for. This is why it is important to think about your investment before making the purchase. For instance decide whether you want sliding glass, out swing, French, a pet door in them, bifold or accordion doors. Decide on a style such as contemporary or modern patio doors and then decide on whether you want the same finish on the interior as you get on the exterior. All of this can make a difference when you begin shopping.

Some of these choices may be simple to make but others will require some deep consideration. One decision that may require deep consideration is whether you want a pet door. Most of us have to physically take our dogs outside because they can't jump up and open the doors for themselves. We live very busy lives and this can sometimes be a problem. With sliding glass doors that have pet doors in them, you no longer have to worry about that. The doors can be locked for security when they are not in use and they are generally sealed to keep the weather out.

Another major consideration is whether to use sliding glass, French, bifold, outswing or accordion doors. Each one has their own special features but which ones will give you the better return on your money when it comes time to resell your home? French doors add a style all of their own to your home. They allow diffused light to enter while keeping prying eyes from seeing in. They can be either outswing or in swing doors depending on your preferences. Accordion doors allow you to open your home up to your family and guests. They generally fold up neatly against one side leaving your patio free of obstacles.

Consider whether you will use your modern patio doors as a replacement for an existing door or whether this will be a brand new doorway. Sometimes installing new doors means more expense. Using new doors as a replacement for existing doors can be relatively inexpensive. Most of them come with all of the hardware that is needed for installation so there is nothing else to buy, no added expense. Sometimes additional window treatments such as blinds or curtains may be necessary to conceal the interior of your home from passersby. This may require extra hardware such as curtain rods but they too are relatively inexpensive.

Whether you are looking for patio doors that are contemporary, modern or new age, you can always find what you need from the various retailers online. They can match the exterior colors of your home with your new doors as well as give you ideas for window treatments. You should check with local retailers to see what is readily available in your area and what is popular. You may find the bargain you are looking for in your own backyard.

Easy Install - Patio Doors 101

2010-03-06T00:45:00.001-08:00

Whether you've decided on Masonite French or Masonite's center-hinged patio doors, the fact is, that stunning new set of doors will never see its full potential leaning up against a wall in your garage. If you've come this far, then it's time to get serious about mounting your patio doors. Not only will installing them add some extra functionality to your home, your sense of pride and accomplishment will increase dramatically too!

In just a few simple steps you can have your new doors installed and functioning beautifully.

1. Determine your Rough Opening and Door Frame size.
o Rough opening width is measured from the inside of the stud frame to the opposite stud.
o Rough opening height is measure from the sub-floor to the bottom of the header.

2. Do not proceed until the sub-floor is clean and level.

3. Remove all packaging from your door (including any wood screws in the top of the header).

4. Apply caulk to the flat surfaces of the bottom sill, bottom jambs, and grooves.

5. Fit the unit into the rough opening.
o Do not try this without assistance.

6. Shim and Fasten the unit.
o Shim the bottom of the unit, tightly and as indicated in your door's manual. Shim the top of the unit, as indicated.
o Confirm a 1/8" gap between the top of the door and the frame header.

7. Insulate and Install.
o Score the shims with a razor and snap them flush with the frame.
o Insulate any gaps between the frame and rough opening with fiberglass blanket insulation.

8. Extra Caulking
o Caulk all exterior corners and all around the brick siding. Caulk everywhere the exterior trim meets brick or siding trim.

9. I said there were 9 steps, right? Well, if there was another step, I'd instruct you to take a step back and admire your handiwork, because you have just installed your new patio doors!