Preventive Maintenance For Your Plumbing

To avoid recurring costs and the hassle of hiring professional or registered plumbers, it would be wise to go ahead and do a few checks on your home plumbing system yourself. Preventive maintenance is all you need. Keep in mind that a plumbing system is composed of pipes and plumbing appliances. These appliances are your toilets, bathtubs, showers, sinks as well as the laundry facilities and maybe your lawn sprinkler system.

Water pressure is an essential factor in giving you a decent and adequate water supply to your home. One of the problems you might encounter is the loss of water pressure on a certain plumbing appliance. Loss of water pressure could mean one of 3 things. One, there's a leak somewhere along your water pipelines. Two, something's clogged up in your water line. Three, something is going on with the water company supplying you water.

Another important factor in your plumbing system aside from the pipes and fixtures are your drains. Observe how fast the water goes down the drain. Overtime, you may notice that it takes longer for the water to go down. This is an early sign telling you that a clog may happen. Chances are, something is already clogged in the drain line, but its not causing any major problems. It is best to address this early because as time goes by, that small clog will start to collect other materials like human hair, dust or whatever goes down the drain. Eventually, its going to cause a major clog and you'll have a headache on your hands. It might be a good idea to use those chemical solutions that you pour in the drain but nothing beats a snake or a rooter.

The toilet is probably one of the most significant pieces of plumbing appliances. Some even consider it the most important thing at home. More than often, clogs or backup up toilets are the number one problem for this plumbing appliance. Do not flush anything else other than your "human waste" down the toilet. Paper may seem harmless but it eventually builds up and may clog the drain. If you are going to use toilet paper and flush them down, look for those biodegradable ones that dissolve in water overtime. Another common problem of toilets are the inner workings of the toilet's tank. Sometimes the parts and valves in them malfunction. It would be wise to replace these parts if years have gone by because sooner or later they will fail and you don't want it to fail during the most crucial times.

As for your other plumbing appliances, check to make sure that you spot leaks on the sink, bathtub or shower. Finding them early will save you a boat load of headaches and money. These leaks are likely to be caused by cracked, hollow or loose tiles around the plumbing fixture. You might also want to check if the gaskets in your faucets are still fine because they'll wear out eventually since you do use them almost everyday.

One last plumbing appliance you may need to examine is the water heater. Check the heater's burner chamber. See if there is rust around it. It may need cleaning or even get replacement if necessary. Check the flame of the heater. The color of the flame should be blue. If you see hints of yellow then that means the burner needs to be cleaned. You should also consider cleaning the inside of the water heater. Overtime, sediments in the water may build up inside it.

So how often should you do these preventive measures? It's nothing more complicated than just once a year. If you've done your preventive maintenance then you will save a lot of time, money and headaches. You won't have to keep on calling that emergency plumber when your plumbing breaks down.

Repairing a Leaking Toilet

Let me explain how a toilet works. First when you go to flush the toilet a little arm pulls a rubber flapper up and lets the water drain into the toilet bowl. The water draining into the toilet bowl forces the old water out along with the number two or number one waste and extremities.

If the toilet sounds like it is running there is a good chance that the seal between the rubber flapper and the plastic rain at the bottom of the toilet is broken somehow. The sound you are hearing is water running around this ring and in to the toilet bowl.

This leak is actually causing no damage to the toilet itself but is wasting water. Hence the water bill will be a little higher if you don't fix the leaking toilet. The best way to find out if this is actually your problem is to take the toilet tank lid off. Then stick your hand down into the toilet bowl and press gently on the rubber flap.

If the water stops leaking or starts running faster this is your problem. Turn the water off to the toilet. There will be a shut off valve on the wall under your toilet bowl in the bathroom. After you turn the water off removed the plastic flap and examine it.

You will be looking for a warped toilet flap or of some sort or grooves on the flapper itself. Take the toilet flapper down to your local home improvement store and buy a new one. Go home and replace the new toilet flapper and this should solve 90% of your leaking toilet problems.

There is one more thing it could be. With the toilet tank lid off, check to see if water is overflowing into the little round plastic pipe. This plastic pipe should have a small hose running from the float valve assembly into it.

If the water is over flowing from the toilet tank into this little plastic pipe you will need to adjust the float.

First thing you will need to do is while the toilet is running lift up on the float lever arm. If the water stops you can simply bend the metal arm of the float lever. The purpose of bending the arm will force the float deeper into the water there for stopping the water from rising over the small tube in the center of your toilet.

There are few parts to a toilet and most parts can be purchased at your local hardware or home improvement centers. Toilet repairs like this can be made simple and the parts used to replace are inexpensive.

Happy Toilet Repairing.

Natural Gallstone Cure - How to Pass Gallstones Down the Toilet

Did you know that an effective natural gallstone cure will pass your stones down the toilet by tomorrow? Unfortunately, most people have no clue how to flush their gallbladder and gallstones!

This article is intended to educate you on a variety of options you have for a natural cure for gallstones.

Pass Gallstones

There are numerous things you can try for a natural gallstone cure. Here is a list of things you may wish to consider.

1. You may wish to start passing your gallstones with a colon cleanse. A colon cleanse helps eliminate toxins from the gastrointestinal system, particularly the colon. The easiest way to perform this cleanse is to use an enema. The best kits work with distilled water and lemon juice.

2. Drink plenty of water! You should be drinking about 100 ounces daily which is about the amount of one gallon. That is a lot but you will be flushing your organs!

3. Avoid fattening foods.

4. Avoid foods that are high in cholesterol. You may wish to stay away from your favorite animal based foods.

5. Eat bran cereal every morning to help with the flushing process.

6. You should also be eating plenty of vegetables daily.

7. Eat whole grains and foods that are high in dietary fiber.

8. Supplement vitamin C daily at 2500 mg to help convert your cholesterol stones to harmless bile.

9. Educate yourself on natural health and gallstones. Research has proven that natural remedies work for dissolving and passing gallstones. Continue to learn how your diet impacts your gallbladder. The more you know about treating this disease, the more likely you will be able to cure and prevent it.

Home System of Plumbing

What people think about Home Plumbing is that it is only concerned about the handling of clean and used water. However, there are other segments that compose the entire system of plumbing in every household. Plumbing entails everything inside the home that uses pipes, piping fixtures and tubing.

Home plumbing systems are made up of other subsystems. First is the water supply that provides tap cold and hot water. This is an indoor plumbing part that is utilized for drinking, toilets flushing, showering, bathing, dish-washing, clothes washing, etc. Tap water may be supplied by various sources such as municipal water supply, water wells, water truck delivery, natural bodies and sources of water like creeks, rivers, lakes and rain. Water faucet is the most common water fixture for this subsystem.

The next subsystem involves vents, drains and traps. It is called DWV or the drain-waste-vent system. This subsystem basically removes dirty water and greywater from inside the house and expels the gases created by the sewage. Waste water is produced in the fixtures like sinks, showers and toilets. Then it goes out through the trap. Trap is the dipped section of the pipe which has water content all the time. The importance of the trap is such that it prevents the toxic gas produced by the wastes from returning to the house. Pipes that connect the fixtures to the outdoors compose the plumbing vents. Vents are for relieving the house of gases from the sewer.
Septic system is also another subdivision of the home plumbing system. Its main component is the septic tank. Septic is the environment for the anaerobic bacteria which has developed in the tank then decomposes the discharged wastes inside the tank.

The Drainage subsystem may be artificial or natural method of removing water (from the surface or subsurface). Drainage is especially used by the agricultural sector for the improvement of the agriculture production.
Piping or Fuel Gas Piping is also included in the system of Plumbing. Piping or pipes are useful in conveying fluids, both gas and liquid, to transport it from one point of location to another. The concept of piping is such that fluid is transported efficiently.

Water is one of our essential needs especially for drinking. As water supply travels through the plumbing system, the proper working condition of all plumbing elements must be ensured. Correct maintenance must be provided to the plumbing system. Some of the plumbing systems malfunctioning are:

Toilet clogging. Clogging happens when the water in the toilet is slow to drain or there is no drainage at all when the toilet is flushed. Possible causes are build up of wastes or there is a foreign object stuck along the water passage.
Bad or Offensive Toilet Odors. A bathroom or toiler and sometimes even the kitchen smells offensively due to improper flow of water in the drainage caused by pipes which have ruptured, whose wax ring is defective or the inadequate amount of water in the bowl.
Showers leaks and clogging of shower heads. Water leaking from the shower may be caused by old and worn shower fixture. Clogging may probably be caused by the collected mineral deposits in the shower head.

Bathroom Designs and Upgrades

Are you looking for some ideas to beautify your bathroom by renovating it? Well, this article is just right for you. First thing to consider in renovating your bathroom is to know which areas in your bathroom you want to be renovated. It is also a good idea to discuss this matter with your interior designer before you start to work on them.

There are many available modern bathroom fixtures in which you can replace with your old ones. Replacing old bathroom fixtures like knobs, handles, faucets, and towel bars with new ones really give your bathroom a completely new look.

Adding beautifully designed suitable tiles and painting the walls also give your bathroom a new look. If you want, you can add some furniture and accessories that would really enhance the beauty of your bathroom. Adding shower curtains, rugs, new towels, and window treatments will give your bathroom a modern feel. The flooring of the bathroom should also be considered for it is one of the most important parts in a bathroom. For a bath tub with a classic look, choose the modern ones. There are different types of tubs that you can choose from which are available in the market. You can select the size of the tub you want to buy and you can compare it with your bathroom theme.

Upgrading your old shower is a very good idea. Currently, there are many available bath tubs with built-in showers. A steam shower is good to those people who want to have a spa relaxation experience right inside their bathrooms. Lastly, if you want to make your bathroom look bigger, you must properly install lights and mirrors.

Nowadays, bathrooms are used by people to release all their stress. So it is really important to spend a little time, effort and money to make it better.

Bathroom Remodel Ideas - Tips to Help With Your Next Project

Bathroom fixtures is very important. It can really make your home's most intimate room beautiful. As with any room in your house it's the small things that can make the biggest difference and bring your bathroom to a whole new level. The tiniest of details can surprisingly add a whole new level to your bathroom and will also add additional functions that will help out a lot. Clutter is never cool. Bathrooms appear in all sizes but there are probably as much small bathrooms as their is big bathrooms. As a result making the most of the space you might have is crucial. Once again it is the little points that develop the ambiance inside your bathroom. When you are dealing with a small space you want to make it appear bigger. The feeling of being trapped is in no way a great feeling. By adding mirrors you can give off the sense that the bathroom is larger than it is. Make an effort to get smaller fixtures like lighting, toilet, and a vanity.

Ensure that the vanity mirror and sink are relative in size. There is nothing uglier than a huge mirror over a small vessel sink. This style is confusing for the eye and makes the bathroom look small and ugly. The placement of mirrors is critical as well. With your small bathroom you must eliminate as much clutter as possible. It's important to have small hidden drawers, an in wall medicine cupboard and possibly a little closet. Using the vanity for storage space is usually a good thing. One can find small vanities available on the market which have some storage space. Try to make use of shelves but only put neat things on these shelves such as already folded towels, candles... certainly not an open tooth paste bottle, tooth brush, a brush with or without the hair, a newspaper or magazine, etc. I possibly could continue for days concerning the stuff that your house guests shouldn't have to see when they are in the bathroom. Anyhow enough with that rant. Generally keep it simple.

Bathroom colours really set the mood. Colors do influence your subconscious mind. White, light yellows, a few gentle pastel colours help to make your bathroom feel much more open. Thus try to use these color variations. More dark colours tend not to make use of lighting and make the bathroom feel smaller. When you're buying paint be sure you ask an expert about waterproof paints. It is really an absolute headache watching paint chip in your bathroom due to a few hot steamy showers. Furthermore go the extra mile when spending money on your bathroom's paint, high quality counts.

Let's move onto the lighting. Try and present sufficient light so the space feels open and comfy. You don't want the bathroom to seem like a police interrogation and definitely not like you are in a dimly lit creepy cocktail lounge. Try putting a light on the ceiling and maybe one to enhance the vanity. Attempt not to make the vanity light too vibrant, it may be a self-confidence killer. Last but not least aim to get all Eco-friendly materials for your bathroom. This consists of recycled items, pre-used, bamboo, and water conserving equipment like reduced flow dual flush toilets.

What to Look For in a Condo Conversion

When you're thinking about investing in an apartment that's been renovated into a condo, there are several things to look for. A conversion isn't as simple as it may seem on the surface--a lot of work (or lack there of) goes into making a place that was once leased out into a permanent home.

1)Common Space

Many apartment complexes are designed for working people who commute--students who come home at night for school, dayshift employees who return to their rented one-
bedroom in the evenings--thus many apartment areas don't have a well kept common area. If you buy a condo conversion, think about how much time you'll be spending there, and consider looking for one with some green space or a pool.

2)HOA Fees

Because oftentimes a lot of money goes into a condo conversion, the monthly condo fees can be substantial. Read the fine print to make sure the fees won't go up too high, and try and find out whether your fellow owners have similar interests to yours.

3)Amenities

Look closely at the details of your potential purchase. Are the walls thick enough between units, since condo dwellers often have a different lifestyle than people who live in less permanent apartment complexes? Are there washer/dryer hook ups in each unit, or is there a shared laundry facility? Are there still renters in the complex, or most units owner-occupied? Are the appliances brand new or have they been used by previous tenants?

4)Renovations

If you're going to buy a renovated apartment, try and make sure the renovations have been true improvements. Many complexes use a lot of energy and water, so you might want to check if they have been updated in a green fashion--check for energy efficient windows and appliances, a standardized recycling program, low-flush toilets and good insulation. Because of the trend in green building that's sweeping the country, it'll make your property more valuable in the long run if you pay attention to those features now.

How to Unplug Your Toilet

We've all had this experience. You really have to go but someone has just made your toilet nonfunctional. You've tried to plunging it until your hands and wrist started to ache but no amount of effort seems to get things flowing again. You've thought of calling a plumber but they're expensive at even the normal labor rate. So what can you do besides getting your body tired by continuing what you are doing?

Most people don't know how to plunge a toilet properly to begin with. They push and push until the wax seal breaks out and then they have another problem to contend with. Also, they've bought the wrong toilet plunger.
The most effective plunger to buy is the one that has a flap that folds out so the rubber end looks like a bell. Stay away from the one that looks like a saucer.
To properly plunge your toilet first make sure the flap on the plunger is extended out. Then place the end into the hole. Slowly push the plunger down into the hole until the air in the plunger is expelled. This creates a vacuum in the plunger. Make sure the outside rim of the plunger is fully seated over the hole on the bottom of the bowl. Then with a quick jerking motion pull the plunger so that the vacuum created lifts the water out of the hole and releases the obstruction. You may have to do this several times before you are successful.

After many attempts using this method without success I discovered another way.

Hot water! My bathtub is next to the toilet, so I filled a large pot with hot water and poured it into the bowl to soften the obstruction and within eight or nine potfuls I was successful. As soon as I saw that the water level was going down quicker I used the plunger once again and then tried to flush and it worked!

Next time this happens you should try these methods. You'll save your muscles and your pocketbook!

Toilet Repair

I don't know how many times I have walked down the plumbing section in home depot and some poor guy or girl is standing there trying to figure out how to repair their toilet. There are only a few things that can go wrong with your toilet. You get plug it, but that is for another article. It could be leaking. There are leaks from a number of places.

Leaks can come from:

The wax seal

The connection from the tank to the bowl

The connection from the supply tube

Leaking inside from the tank to the bowl

Leaking inside from flowing over the overflow tube

There are other toilet repair problems, but these are the most common.

The wax seal:

Often the toilet will either have water on the floor or through the floor to the ceiling below. To fix this you need to get a new wax ring and t-bolts. Turn off the supply water, flush it, sponge out as much water as you can from the tank and from the bowl, loosen the t-bolts off, loosen off the supply tube, lift the toilet off the floor, turning it upside down beside you, scrape off the old wax seal from it and from the floor, remove the old t-bolts, put in new t-bolts, and wax ring, set toilet down on top of the flange, press gently to the floor allowing the wax to create a seal, tighten t-bolts, go from one bolt to the other 5 ¼ turns each, DO NOT OVER TIGHTEN, hook up the supply tube, turn on water, flush toilet, check for leaks.

That's it, normally I would charge about $150 for coming to someone's place to do this, so you just saved that money.

The connection from the tank to the bowl: In this case you might need a new spud washer and tank bolts. Or in some cases this happens and the tank or bowl has cracked over time. The first thing you need to do is find where the leak is coming from. Does it leak all the time or only when the toilet is flushed? If it leaks all the time the tank may be cracked. These are quite often hairline cracks, try and wipe dry the tank, then feel with your hands where the water is coming from. Sometimes it might be condensation as well, if this is the case you will need to line your tank with a Styrofoam insulation, you can buy this at your hardware store. If you find water is coming from a small crack you will need a new toilet, if it is newer you might be able to get the matching tank still.

To change the spud washer and tank bolts you will need to shut off the supply water, and flush the toilet. Now loosen the bolts under the tank that connect to the bowl, usually two sometimes three. Loosen the supply tube and remove. Remove the tank and remove the washer the is at the bottom of the tank, normally a rubber type washer with a spongy feeling. Replace with a new one and put the tank back on the bowl. Tighten the new tank bolts in place, again alternating to keep the tank even. Now too tight or you will crack the tank or the bowl. Put the supply tube back into place and turn on the water. Check for leaks, tighten slightly if there is some. You are done! That's another $150.00 you just saved yourself.

The connection from the supply tube:

This one is easy, simply turn off the water and remove the supply tube. Pick up a new one and put into place, turn on the water and check for leaks. Savings this time $120.00.

Leaking inside the toilet from the tank to the bowl:

This is a very common toilet repair, this is just the seal from inside the tank. Called the flapper. American Standard has their own kind of flapper, but the rest are the same. Put a few drops of food coloring into the tank and wait an hour or two. If there is food coloring in the bowl you know you have a leaky flapper. Buy a universal flapper from the hardware store. Turn off the water, and remove the old flapper. The rubber may be giving off a black film, this will stain your floor so make sure to wrap it up right away. To remove the flapper, take the chain off the lever, and remove the flapper from the two hooks at the bottom of the overflow tube. These hooks are rubber and attached to the flapper. Now install the new one, and turn on the water. Flush the toilet. If the toilet does not flush well you will need to adjust the chain length from the lever to the flapper. Then flush again and you are done! Savings $120.00

Leaking inside the toilet by flowing over the overflow tube:

The second most common toilet repair. If the water is flowing over the overflow tube, or if it is running from the fill valve tube to the overflow tube you need a new fill valve. Fill valves come in two styles, one with the big float ball and arm, the other with the float on the valve itself. Both are interchangeable with each other. Buy a new fill valve. Turn off the water, and disconnect the supply tube. Flush it and sponge out the water in the tank. Loosen the nut under the fill valve on the outside of the tank. Remove the old fill valve. When installing the new one check the height of the fill valve. If you bought the type with the float on the valve you can raise this by twisting the valve. Don't go too high or you will have to start over. Now put the valve into the hole at the bottom of the tank, tighten on the nut on the outside of the tank. Put on the supply tube, and turn on the water. Check for leaks, if need be tight the nut a bit more, being careful not to over tighten. Take the tube that comes with the new valve and connect from the valve to the overflow tube with the connector in the package. This allows the bowl to fill after you flush so that sewer gases do not come up out of the sewer. Savings $130.00

These are the most common toilet repair jobs, there are others just not as common.

Preventing Toilet Clogs

The sight of water rising instead of falling in the basin of a toilet shortly after flushing strikes fear in the hearts of many people. This sad sight means that the toilet sewage line has somehow become clogged. The first course of action in a situation like this is usually to grab the plunger and fish it around the bottom of the toilet looking for the toilet drain.

Then most people will give a few half-hearted plunges in a meek effort to dislodge any blockages while making sure not to splash dirty toilet water anywhere near there body. Some people actually go the the lengths of standing on bathtubs, sinks, or any other bathroom fixture in an effort to keep even the smallest drop of water from landing on their body.

In spite of their best efforts, most people will inevitably be splashed with the dirty water. This combined with the fact that the toilet is still clogged makes the experience all the more unpleasant. So how can you avoid this situation from happening to you in the future? Well aside from dietary changes, here are some simple ways to make sure your toilet remains clog-free.

1. Do not use excessive toilet paper. Many people use huge amounts of toilet paper when using the bathroom and this can lead to blockages forming in the sewage line. Limiting the amount of toilet paper thrown into the toilet basin will help prevent these types of blockages.

2. Do not flush paper towels. Paper towels are made to absorb and are not designed to break down in the same way that toilet paper is. Flushing paper towels in standard toilets is a great way to create a problem.

3. Use a drain cleaner periodically. Periodic use of an industrial strength drain cleaner can help to prevent clogs from forming and make sure your sewage line remains clear.

Follwing these few simple tips can help any home-owner prevent toilet clogs.

Components of Frameless Shower Doors

When building your own frameless shower door, there are crucial parts and components to consider. These parts and components are called hardware. Like any hardware, they are necessary to build and construct a planned project. Certain materials and tools are also required to successfully build it.

Major Components

The major hardware categories required for frameless shower doors are door hinge, glass clamps and brackets, pulls and handles, wipes and seals, u-channels or thresholds, towel bars, and other designer accessories. You can usually find these components in your nearest hardware stores as they are not that hard to find.

Door Hinge

Before buying certain components, you need to make sure that you plan out of what specific door you want to construct. If you settle for a swinging type of shower door, a shower door hinge is needed. Basically, like other hinges, they are used to hold 2 parts together so that one can swing relative to the other.

Glass Clamps

For some who chose glass shower doors, glass clamps are necessary in order to hold the glass together. At the same time, brackets is needed to hold glasses too especially if your shower door enclosures are built in the corner.

Pull or Handle

Another very important hardware is the pull or handle. Whether you have a sliding, bi-fold, or swinging door, one needs a handle or pull to access the shower door. One can choose from a variety of style, design, and finishes to suit one's need of convenience and elegance.

Wipes and Seals

Another equally important part of shower enclosure doors are wipes and seals. Aside from sealing every glass or any material used for the shower door, they serve as a stopper for water or air from going outside the shower enclosure so one can avoid any water overflow in the bathroom.

U-Channels or Thresholds

Next are u-channels or thresholds. These components are good for securing the bottom and the top of shower enclosures for secure and safe usage. Remember, different u-channels and thresholds are available depending onto what type of door you use. So always pick the one that is appropriate for your door or else you will not be able to put together the materials.

Towel Bars and Accessories

The last but certainly not the least are the towel bars and other designer accessories. Using such will add convenience for one's daily shower use and other important necessities like shower trays, hand holders and what not. Adding a certain personal design can also personalize your bathroom interior.

Always choose what is suitable for your needs and don't over accessorize. Always make it simple when choosing the right door components to fit your everyday lifestyle.

Preparing Your Home for Sale

It's probably been years since you've played dress-up... your mom's fancy hat and shoes or your dad's old military gear. Fun at the time, but now you think you're way past the dress-up stage, right? Wrong! Just when you thought those days were long dead and buried, experts are encouraging you to resurrect them. Well, at least when it comes time to sell your home!

Although common sense (and that nasty smell coming from the pantry) tells most of us to clean our home thoroughly before we put it on the market, sometimes that just isn't enough. Sometimes you have to dress it up a bit. In fact, the way you present your home to prospective buyers can spell the difference between "That one home with the icky wallpaper" and a sale.

Let's start with curb appeal. That first impression when prospective buyers drive up is very, very important. If they don't find the outside appealing, they'll be jaded even before they walk through the door . . . if they do.

The Yard

Few things are cleaner or more defined than a planter area with fresh mulch. Mulch gives even the most neglected areas the look of professional landscaping. Mow your lawn, trim the shrubs, add a little color (if weather permits) with flowers. Flowers should be planted about a month in advance, if possible, to allow for a less eleventh-hour feel. There's no real harm in allowing prospective buyers to think you were born with a green thumb!

The Exterior

If your home could use a paint job and you don't have the time or money, sometimes hosing it off and repainting trim and shutters will update the entire facade. Word of caution: if you're not inclined to use a neutral color, get the opinion of three trusted friends or family who are not afraid to "tell it like it is" before you even start searching for the paint brushes. Clean up oil spots on the driveway. Make sure the garage door opens easily. And yes, clean the windows inside and out. Broken glass should be repaired. A clean front porch with a fresh-looking front door (again, three corroborators!) that opens easily is a must.

The Interior

Without having ever stepped not even one pinky toe beyond the threshold of your home, the first instruction is going to be: Have a garage sale! Seriously! The unofficial rule of thumb is if you haven't used it in a month (excluding holiday fare) or didn't even know you owned it, time to say goodbye. Clutter is the silent killer of home sales. A "busy" room will cause even the most sedate buyer to twitch. Your collection of early Disney characters on the armoire or the shrine of family photos on your dresser should be packed and in storage. Clutter can collect on shelves, countertops, in drawers, closets, garages, attics and basements. You want as much open clear space as possible, so every extra little thing needs to be cleared away. If you want your kitchen to look bigger and/or more pristine, clear off the countertops. Even the toaster! The smaller the kitchen, the less on the counters. Ditto for bathrooms. A fresh coat of paint on walls will work wonders too. Remember, though, dark-colored paint makes a room feel smaller and . . . well, darker. Replace all burned-out light bulbs.

Repairs

Make those repairs that you've put off and put off because "it's so much easier to just duct-tape it into submission." If the light bulb is out, replace it. If you have to jiggle the toilet handle to flush it, fix it. Because if it doesn't come up when the buyers are looking at your home, it will certainly be revealed in the home inspections.

The Kids

Kids generally mean clutter, so pay special attention to this section if you have kids. Most buyers will walk into a child's room and almost instantly will try to guess an approximate gender and age for the occupant. We "ooh" at the baby's clothes and we "aah" at the teen's florescent green walls. We're like that. We're human. And because of that special "affinity," we'll forgive a lot of things, even black paint with glow-in-the-dark ceiling decals. But honestly, we want to be able to walk through the room without stumbling over Tickle Me Elmo or worse, gulp, the family hamster.

Fido & Fluffy

Whether your beloved is an indoors or outdoors pet, there are three absolutes that need to be addressed. The first is smell. Ionizers can go a long way, whereas room fresheners tend to add floral or spice to the dominant pet odor. Pet odor will beat out room fresheners, hands down. Secondly, fur. A lint brush could work wonders on the furniture. And last, but certainly not least, please, please remove the doggy droppings from the backyard. Unsuspecting buyers might neglect to see Fido's gifts and track it throughout your entire home before awareness slaps them full in the face.

Finally, call a Realtor! Most Realtors don't charge a cent to come to your home and tell you exactly what you need to do to prepare your home for sale and why. That's what we're here for!

Now step back and look at your home from the prospective of a buyer. Odds are that after you dress up your home for sale, you'll wonder why you ever decided to move in the first place!

Bathroom Mirrors - Things to Consider When Buying

When you are decorating your house, it's easy to get excited about the theme of your living room, or the way that your bed spread will match the drapes in your bedroom - but you can't forget to pay close attention to another important room in your home, the bathroom. Too often do homeowners overlook the importance of one of the most basic bathroom elements which is their bathroom mirror.

When you're shopping for your bathroom mirror, there are a number of things that you need to consider. First and foremost, you need to consider if there are any practical limitations. For instance, is there a certain shape or size that your new mirror needs to fit into? Perhaps the type of wall that it will be one requires that it be mounted by hanging with screws. This is common with certain types of wall finishes that are difficult to use adhesives on.

Next, you need to make sure that your new bathroom mirror fits in with the major shapes of your bathroom. If you have a lot accessories of a certain shape, then you can narrow down your new purchase to the same shape. You can also consider how fancy your current theme is. This will help you narrow down what style your new mirror should be. If you have a very fanciful bathroom, you have a multitude of choices available to you. If your current theme is quite basic, you should have a very wide range of options.

There are many choices of designs that you can consider as well. Some bathroom mirrors look like they are set in an old picture frame, while others have no border at all. Just take some time to consider what you have available to you. Not enough people consider the importance of the look and feel of your bathroom. After all, there is no doubt that almost all of your visitors will visit this room sooner or later.

Bathroom Showers - Most Common Type

The shower is the one spot in your home where you can go to unwind, distress, luxuriate and be totally alone - so bathroom showers that promote relaxation and that are highly functional are high on the wish list among most homeowners, both men and women. With today's modern technology, you can create a virtual spa retreat right in the comfort of your own home.

One of the most important components in most bathroom showers is the showerhead. A massaging head is a good choice for those people who work hard and need to unwind at the end of a long day with a relaxing but stimulating shower massage. The head can be a very functional part of your showering routine, especially if you choose one that can be detached. A hand showerhead can be used for rinsing your hair or just directing the flow of water to specific body parts. If there are people in your home that are limited physically, the hand held kind can make bathing less stressful on the body - which makes this a perfect accessory for the elderly. You can also use a handheld head for bathing kids or washing the family dog - as well as for cleaning the bath walls or watering larger houseplants.

Many people opt for complete systems for their bathroom showers, which can turn it into a complete luxury experience. A complete showering system features various components that work together to enhance your experience, such as separate sprays that are located in carefully planned places along the wall, and showerheads that perform various functions, like a waterfall showerhead, for example. With a bit of work, you can add a sauna kit or steam kit into your configuration that will give you the option of having a sauna after a hard day's work.

You can find good deals on everything you need for bathroom showers by shopping online. Online plumbing retailers oftentimes have lower overhead than traditional plumbing stores that do business in a brick and mortar setting, and this often translates to lower prices for you on the products that you need to make your shower one of your most treasured parts of your home. Look for those online retailers that offer free shipping to maximize your savings!

New Bathroom Renovation Budget

The bathroom is usually regarded as a great sanctuary where one could finally relax after a long day's work. This area is also mostly subjected to renovations. In any endeavor of remodeling, you need to prepare your budget first of all. You could go from DIY solutions to intricate detailing done by professional contractors.

You need to decide on your budget. And you could only set the proper financial costing if you initially settle on the type and extent of the renovation. You must have at least rough draft of the bathroom's final look. The plan should include the new designations of lighting and positions of new fixtures. Especially for the full remodeling task, you need to consider the electrical connections and plumbing. Unless you are savvy in these areas, you have to hire the services of professionals. To lessen your expenses, disregard hiring a middleman. You could easily handle the transaction with the contractor or electrician. Some home improvement shops are great locations where you could find trustworthy workers and servicers. Their fees would depend on the extent of their task.

DIY renovation

If you really are on a tight budget but your bathroom needs a little zest, opt for this method. You would be surprised at how much you could save on labor fees if you decide to do most of the work. However, if your plan includes re-assignment of pipes and electrical wiring, you really need to consult experts to avoid mishaps.

The main focus for self-help remodeling is to give proper attention to the materials. You could get quick tips from online DIY home improvement sites. These offer suggestions where good materials can be found and at great prices too. For one, you could find listings of salvage yards, thrift stores and bargain shops. You could get great deals by buying scrap wood and/or metal. You could also check out new tiles, which are cheaper when bought in bulk orders. In addition, there are a wide range of furniture pieces looking closely similar to antiques, which are naturally less expensive. Claw foot tubs, faux leather finish mirrors, dresser tables and even slightly used sinks.

You could also find good use for old doors, cabinets, toilets, bathtubs and shower heads. You could enhance their look by simply refurbishing paint application or adding decorative detail. For example, you could achieve rustic finish for doors and cabinets through simple applications. Put nails in a thick cloth. An old towel would be perfect. Beat the door and cabinets using the bundle. You would see nail marks on them. Apply a fresh coat of paint. Super white is preferable for bathroom doors and choose a contrasting or complementing color for the cabinets. Let it dry for a half day. Apply clear varnish into the surfaces. Let it dry for a couple of hours. Once everything is set, these fixtures would seem as if bought from an antique store.

Any old dresser could be converted into a sink counter. Do the same paint and varnish treatment for a consistent look. Drill a hole into the top of the dresser which could accommodate your existing sink. Ensure that the plumbing would still function well.

Full-blown remodeling

This one requires extensive spending. But you could have an overview of the total expenses if you use a bathroom construction/renovation calculator. You could access home design directory online sites that offer free estimation for your request. Basically, you would be asked to choose the layout. Some sites display visual presentation of layout options. When you have selected the layout, specify the size, contents and tiled area.

The size ranges from small to large or customized according to your preference. As you designate the tiled area, you would also be asked to choose the tiles. As for the contents, you could pick which ones should be included - bath, mixer, wall spout, bench top, basin, mirror, shower enclosure, towel rails (heated or traditional), robe hook, exhaust fan, and others. The costs depend on your specifications. For example, renovating a small bathroom including tiled floors and walls would cost around $22 per sq-meter. The price would increase depending on the tiles you choose. The standard-type tiles per sq-meter cost around $40. The contents range from $80 to $2,000+ a piece. The prices are dependent on the type of the materials.

You should also consider the labor costs. You could save a little if you stick with the original positions of the electrical wiring, plumbing, windows and other fixtures.

The main point in all of these is that you could have better renovation experience if you know how to stick to your budget and layout. You need to be decisive so you could be spared from unnecessary spending.

Cat Urinary Infection - A Simple 5-Step Plan to Stop Repeats of a Cat Urinary Tract Infection

Its not unusual for cats to have repeat incidents of a cat urinary infection. If you are frustrated with repeat bouts of a feline urinary tract infection, you can take action to stop the problem for good. There are a number of factors that contribute to cat urinary problems like diet, stress and environmental factors. When you are done reading this article you'll know exactly what to do to remove the very causes of a cat urinary infection.

Your cat's urinary tract problems may also be referred to as a Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD) or Feline Urinary Syndrome (FUS). This means your cat as an infection in his bladder or urethra. The most lethal situation is when stones form in the bladder and eventually block the passage of urine from his body. Unfortunately, if you don't quickly recognize a cat urinary infection, your cat's condition can quickly turn into a life threatening emergency.

Here's how to spot a cat urinary infection:

Your cat is urinating in all the wrong locations;
You notice urine on the tile or in the bathtub;
His urine may have blood in it;
He licks his genital area a lot;
His urine is smellier than normal;
He fusses with the litter box and may repeatedly squat, but very little urine passes.

An easy 5-step program to prevent a cat urinary infection.

First, have your vet rule out any tumors or congenital defects. These can cause cat urine problems and require a surgical procedure to reverse the disorder.

Second, help reduce the stress in your cat's world. Stress has a proven connection to the onset of cat urinary problems. If you can't remove the person, thing or condition causing the stress, consider using an herbal remedy to reduce the impact of the stress factor on your cat.

Third, give your cat plenty of opportunity to drink fresh water. Place 2-4 bowls of fresh water around the house. Refresh them every day. If your cat loves toilet water, don't scold him, but let him indulge. Just make sure you flush after every use to keep the water fresh and give the toilet a good scrub every week.

Fourth, help your cat get 20 minutes of good activity each day. Fat cats are far more likely to have a cat urinary infection. Take a look at his diet too as you may need to supplement with natural minerals or vitamins.

Fifth, give your cat the best chance to maintain a proper pH level in his bladder. Steps 1-4 help maintain the proper pH, but your cat may just need a little extra boost to get over an infection and improve pH level in his bladder. This is where homeopathic remedies can give him that extra help.

So there you have it. Five simple steps to stop the repeating cycle of cat urinary problems. You may need a little help boosting his mineral intake and balancing his bladder's pH level. This is easy to remedy with some homeopathic compounds added to his diet twice a day.

Your next step? Put out the fresh water bowls and locate these natural compounds that are proven to help prevent future cat urinary infection in your best feline friend. And don't forget to flush the toilet.

Seven Tips For an Eco-Friendly Bathroom

People use--and waste--more water in the bathroom than in any other room in the house. Add all that water use with polluting soaps and shampoos, the energy used to heat the water, and more--and your bathroom could be doing damage to the environment.

But it doesn't have to be that way. There are many things you can do to bring a little green into your bathroom. Here are just a few.

Energy-efficient light bulbs. Fluorescent bulbs are 90% more efficient than incandescents. Incandescent bulbs lose most of their energy as heat--which makes them a fire hazard as well.

The best lighting for a bathroom is bright enough to let you shave or apply makeup without squinting, but soft enough to look flattering while you do it. Choose bright white energy-saver bulbs, and soften the light by hanging them at eye level on either side of the mirror or putting them behind frosted glass.

Dual-flush toilets. Most new toilets use about seven or eight litres of water every time you flush. Older toilets use 9-12 litres. However, you don't need this much water to flush a toilet.

If you want to save water, replace your toilet with a dual-flush model. Dual-flush toilets have one flush for water waste, and another for solids. Naturally, you need less water to flush water waste.

Faucets that conserve water. Leaky faucets waste millions of litres of water per year, and cost you money as well. To prevent leaks in your bathroom taps, replace your old fixtures with self-closing taps that shut off the water as soon as you stop pressing a button. This ensures your water isn't left on while you brush your teeth or shave, and it keeps your faucet from leaking.

Think green in the shower. We waste a great deal of water in the shower--plus massive amounts of energy used to heat the water we waste. If you want to save water and save the planet at the same time, consider installing a low-flow showerhead or an air shower.

A typical showerhead delivers 25 litres of water per minute, while a low-flow showerhead delivers only 6 to 15. Cut your shower time in half and use a low-flow showerhead, and you'll save a great deal of water.

If you really want to save water, however, consider an air shower. An air shower device can be attached to your existing showerhead. It pumps each water droplet full of air. This makes each water droplet bigger, so it feels just as wet and strong as a typical showerhead. Studies show that air showers can cut your water use by an additional 30%.

Recycled tiles. If you're redesigning your bathroom from scratch, choose recycled materials such as reclaimed glass tiles. Glass is completely water-resistant, making it a great choice for bathroom walls, flooring, and countertops.

Choosing glass makes good ecological sense as well. Each glass bottle recycled saves enough energy to run a 100-watt bulb for about four hours. In addition, glass accounts for about 6% of all landfill waste and takes over a million years to break down.

Heat your water efficiently. Most people wait until their water heater breaks down to buy a new one. This puts you in the position of having to find one quickly, without the luxury of shopping around. But if you take your time in finding the right water heater, it could pay off in the long run.

The most common type of water heater is a storage heater: a big storage tank that's constantly heated. Because it's always kept warm, this type of heater loses energy even when it isn't used. However, there are some new models that are designed to minimize standing heat loss.

If you want a truly efficient hot water heater, however, look for a tankless heater or a solar heater. A tankless heater passes water pipes directly through the boiler, while a solar heater uses the sun's energy to heat water. Both of these will cost more to install, but they will cost less to run.

Use nontoxic shampoos and soaps. Many ordinary soaps and shampoos contain chemicals that could put your health at risk. There are many carcinogenic chemicals in deodorants, soaps, shampoos, and body sprays. Some of these persist in the environment, build up in the food chain, and return to haunt us long after they've gone down the drain.

Be skeptical of products labeled "natural;" under current marketing legislation in the U.K., only 1% of a product needs to be naturally derived in order to use the label. Look for soaps and shampoos that don't use artificial fragrances--essential oils are fine, however. Avoid mineral oil, which is just another name for petroleum oil. In addition, choose soaps and shampoos that use minimal, biodegradable packaging.

Making your bathroom more eco-friendly doesn't have to be a daunting task. Making a change in the soaps you use, limiting your time in the shower, and installing water-efficient fixtures can make a big difference. Whether you plan a few simple changes or a big overhaul, a greener bathroom is within your reach.

Modern Showers For Your Bathroom

Today people are using sauna showers to experience spa like treatment at the comfort of home. These showers enhance the beauty and comfort of a bathroom. Modern day accessories and furniture can completely change the look of your bathroom. Luxurious showers are not so big in size and can be installed in small bathrooms. By installing luxurious showers you can save a lot of money which you spend in visiting a spa salon.

One of the most popular showers which are being used today is sauna showers. Some additional features which you can find in a luxurious shower are mp3, telephone, foot massager and even television. You can find different sizes and shapes of showers. Showers can be bought according to your needs. By using special kits you can change your existing shower into a luxurious shower. It is a good idea to buy accessories through internet stores. Many internet stores offer discount coupons. The website offering bathroom accessories should be reputated.

If you want to enhance the beauty of your bathroom then it is good idea to add some modern accessories and designer furniture. A bathroom is a place which is being used to get rid of all day stress. A clean and luxurious bathroom reflects the lifestyle of a person. Before planning a new bathroom you should set your budget. You can spend a lot on bathroom accessories but everything depends on your budget.

Modern bathrooms are considered as a luxurious place where you can relax after your day job.

Dual Flush Toilet - How to Retrofit and Upgrade Your Old Toilet

I've always been an environmentally conscious individual and as such have always made some attempt to keep my household eco-friendly. I've used compost heaps and recycled my plastics, papers and aluminums, but it wasn't until recently that I decided to make an effort to try and save water.

I wasn't quite sure what method I wanted to try in order to cut my teeth on water conservation so I did some research online first. I found low-flow showerheads, HET toilets, tips on how to check various taps and toilets for leaks, and even suggestions on various heavy items to place in my toilet tank, so as to displace water and use less per flush. The showerheads looked appealing at first, but then I stumbled onto something called a dual flush toilet. These dual flush systems, where one lever flushes a full tank and one lever flushes half a tank, caught my imagination. They're unique, and in my opinion add a certain amount of style to your bathroom.

At first I thought I would have to replace my entire toilet. I consider myself fairly handy but I'm no plumber. I also had no intention of paying someone to tear my bathroom apart. That was when I stumbled across something called a dual flush toilet retrofit kit. These kits are quite cheap and I really had no problem installing one. I'll leave it up to you to find a kit you want to install, but the following are the steps I took to install my own dual flush kit, and if you would like to try it yourself, they will hopefully be quite easy to follow.

1. Turn off the water supply to the toilet and drain tank. Use a sponge to remove the excess remaining water from the tank.

2. Disconnect the tank's inlet fitting from the water supply. Unscrew the two bolts that hold the tank down to the toilet.

3. Disconnect the flush handle from the tank. Lay the tank down on a towel and, using a channel-locking plier, unscrew the large flush valve holding nut.

4. Install the dual flush toilet kit valve - the tapered rubber gasket goes on the inside of the tank to prevent leakage. Tighten large nut until secure.

5. Install the two rubber gasket tie-down bolts and their lock nuts to the bottom of the tank. Bolt the tank down to the toilet using the second set of rubber gaskets and nuts. At this stage I recommend using completely new tank tie down bolts. They are inexpensive to purchase at any hardware store.

6. Assemble the new arms as per required length between the handles and the new flush valve. You may cut them with a hacksaw if necessary here.

7a) Insert the small and large handles into the handle-hole in the tank. Insert spacer if needed.

b) Hook long arm into overflow tube, and short arm into release pole.

c) Slide short and long arms into place on the handles and use clip to secure.

d) Connect the refill tube from the fill valve to the nipple on the long arm.

8. Open water supply to the tank. Fill slowly while checking for leaks. You may want to label the large and small handles as "full" and "half", but that is personal preference.

The way my dual flush kit works I flush my full six-liter tank with the large handle, and the small handle gives me a four-liter flush. I don't have any problem with the four-liter flush performance and I'm quite satisfied with the way everything turned out. You can imagine that people usually have something to say when they emerge from my bathroom, which always gives me a chuckle.

Bathroom Ideas

Good Bathroom Ideas make your bathroom appealing and attractive with a little imagination and plan. If you've always envied folks' who flaunt their bathrooms and snazzy bathroom accessories, it is no more a great deal. Although, bathrooms have become more stylish and contemporary, prudent use of space and sophisticated fittings can transform the smallest bathroom into a glamour room.

When you are executing your bathroom ideas, you need to use the space wisely and keep the fixtures and fittings in proportion to the size of the room. If you are fitting a small bathroom, there are sinks designed specifically to suit the purpose. Ceramic is by far the most sought after and affordable material used in the manufacture of sinks, and it is the most hygienic and durable. Provided you take good care of it, it will still look as good as new even after a decade. Stylish alternatives such as glass or steel will need more work to keep them looking good. Stone and marble may look fantastic but it will definitely blow the budget.

While many bathrooms have laminate or solid surface countertops, tiles of all shapes and styles are the pick of the day. For any variety of looks and durability, choose glass, ceramic, stone or metal tiles. You can also scatter hand painted or embossed tiles at intervals on a wall to create texture and color. At present, bathroom taps for sinks and showers come in a variety of shapes, materials and designs to choose from. Although they look expensive, they fit most bathroom budgets. The popular bathroom budget taps are made of steel while some look elegant with ceramic knobs. If your bathroom is small and you want to save on space and money opt for a bathtub fitted with shower instead of separate shower cubicle.

Don't overlook the easy, low cost bathroom ideas .For instance, decorative touches such as new window treatments, colorful shower curtains towels and bath mats, or even basic items like soaps and candles will create a whole new look. Cut the clutter. Install a glass shelf on a wall to keep the counters clear .The shelf can be used to hold functional bath products or decorative items like picture frames or votive candles. Many bathroom shelves are available to complement the finishes to bath accessories and taps.

Clever bathroom ideas, suggest using hooks at the back of the bathroom doors instead of expensive towel rack for a low budget bathroom. Laundry baskets in wicker or mesh are available at cheap price. It can be hung or
placed in a dry corner.

Bathroom can be made appealing with attractive flooring. Make sure that your bathroom has non slip floor tiles for safety purpose. Ceramic and stone tiles have become popular for bathroom flooring. This is low maintenance material and is perfect for bathrooms. They are available in a variety range of colors. The monotony can be broke by using contrast borders. Go in for a throw rug instead of thick carpet to add color and warmth to the bathroom interiors.Anti skid cotton bath rugs are also a good option. Thus, with innovative bathroom ideas, you can accessorize your bathroom in an inexpensive way.

Home Improvement and Small Bathroom Design

The bathroom is the only room in your house that you can guarantee everyone is going to visit sooner or later. It's not a luxury it's a necessity, everyone has to go. It's the only room in your house that your guests will ask directions to.

It makes a lot of sense then, when you are making improvements to your home, to consider the bathroom as a very important target on your list because potentially it can make a very big difference.

To my surprise it seems that many people don't put the bathroom top of their list when planning home improvements. This could be because they think that it's too big a job or their bathroom is too small to do anything with. This isn't necessarily the case.

Remember that improving a small bathroom doesn't have to be about its physical size but more about it's apparent size and how you give the illusion of space to your visitors. Choosing light colours, adding lighting around the edges of the bathroom and carefully placing a mirror or two are all inexpensive and relatively simple things you can do that can make a lot of difference in a small bathroom.

Reasons for improving your home

The main reasons that most people undertake home improvements fall mostly into the categories below:

Repairs
Improving your living standards
Increase the value of your property
Energy efficiency
Just because you can

Lets take each of these and see how they apply to your small bathroom.

Small Bathroom Repairs

Repairing leaky faucets, broken mirrors and cracked bathtubs are all things that you should be doing no matter what the size of your bathroom. The fact that the room is small might mean that there is less to go wrong but it also means that it could be more awkward to fix. There is no doubt that making repairs in the bathroom will improve your home to the benefit of your family and increase the value of your property.

Improving your living standards

Adding and improving the features in the most used room in the house can make a big difference to your living standards. Make the bathroom a place that you are happy to spend time in.

Increase the value of your property

This is a very important reason for creating the best small bathroom design that you can. When it comes to selling your property an impressive bathroom can make a very real difference. If you are planning to sell up soon then you should pay particular attention to your bathroom.

Energy efficiency

With a little thought with your small bathroom design you can make some energy savings and do your part for the good of the planet. By installing an on-demand water heater in the shower and taking showers instead of baths you can reduce your electricity and water usage. Replacing your toilet for a dual-flush type can also save water.

Just because you can

Some people just like a change and there isn't anything wrong with that providing you have the money and the time.

Remember that redesigning a bathroom no matter how small can make a big difference to your life.

A Parents Guide to Toilet Training (Potty Training)

Toilet or potty training can be a frustrating time for parents and toddlers. My wife and I are getting to the end of toilet training with our son, but I wish we had prepared a bit earlier to make the process easier for all of us.

Most children learn to begin their bladder and later their bowels, between two to three years of age. Girls often before boys. Most parents, (well at least my wife and I!) only really start to think about toilet training when their child reaches around two.

But there's a lot of preparation that can be done before this age to make a child feel comfortable and acclimatized to the idea of going to the toilet before the experience begins.

Discuss with your child when they need to go to the toilet. "Are you doing a wee? Are you doing a poo?" Teach them through encouragement to tell you when they are emptying their bladders or moving their bowels.

Nappy time is ideal for these discussions. "You've done a poo. Soon you will go to the toilet to wee and poo like a big boy/girl." Talk about it weeks or months before putting them on the toilet.

Read stories and watch children's programs or DVD's about toilet training (such as Elmo's Potty Time)




Let them watch adults or older siblings when they go to the toilet and see that it is a natural and regular occurrence.




Let the flush the toilet




buy a special seat and foot stool for the toilet and sink so they feel safe and are able to easily wash their hands afterwards.

Around the the age of two your child should be well prepared and able to sit on the toilet at every nappy change. At first it's usually quite easy as they enjoy the thrill of being a big boy or girl. After the excitement wears off it can be hard to encourage them to sit.

Praise them for sitting on the toilet, regardless of their success. Give them a clap, a cheer a high five, stamp or sticker everytime they sit on the toilet, no matter how briefly. Then put them back in a nappy (reuse the same nappy if dry), then follow the toileting routine of using a small amount of paper, flushing the toilet and washing hands.

Praise them in front of others about how grown up they are for sitting on the toilet. They love that! Our son loved to show visitors how he could sit on the toilet all by himself.

To encourage success while they're on the toilet, they'll need to spend some time there at first. It's a good idea to keep a little basket of books in the bathroom so you can sit and read to them while they're sitting there. That first wee in the toilet is a big deal to parent and child!

Put them on the toilet at normal "go" times, such as after waking up, after meals, before a bath and before bed.

After sufficient preparation (weeks or months depending on the child), they will start to show signs of toilet readiness. Tugging at nappies, sometimes with words, stamping of feet etc. Now is the time for training pants.

To begin with take them to the toilet every hour. Don't give them the option by asking them, just tell them, "It's toilet time," and take them by the hand. Sooner or later most two year olds begin to object when they realise they have to stop playing for a little while to go to the toilet. At this time, don't let them leave the toilet until they've sat down and "performed". They know what to do by now. Encourage them by saying things like "As soon as you've weed we can go and draw, play with your favourite toy etc."

Be positive and praise small successes. Accidents happen. Don't scold them. Talk to them and say "Whoops, you peed on the floor. We pee in the toilet don't we? Next time we'll make it to the toilet." You can also encourage them to tell you when they need to go. After accidents complete the usual toilet routine - sit on the toilet, paper, flush and wash hands. If they don't go through the routine they'll soon see the advantages of peeing in their pants.

Once your child is in pants during the day, don't go back to nappies except for sleep periods. It is too confusing to children to work out when they're in a nappy and when they're in pants. After an accident, it's back into pants. Sorry!

Of course there are times when pants aren't convenient. Huggies "pull ups" are great for going out when toilet training. Don't use them like a nappy. But they offer peace of mind in case children don't make it to the toilet in time.

To limit accidents while out:

take your child to the toilet before every outing

take your child to the toilet between shops

take a potty with you in the car for emergencies

take spare clothes with you.

The hourly routine must still be maintained while you're out.

Most children will wet the bed at night long after they're dry during the day. Keep them in nappies at night and take them to the toilet as soon as they wake up.

Consistency between home and day care or other carers is very important. Remember to be positive and delight in your child's every success. Best of luck and I hope this guide will help you through this sometimes challenging process!

This article was compiled with the help of our local childcare centre - The Village Early Learning Centre.

Going 'Green' with Environmentally-Friendly Home Improvement Products

Over the last few years, buying environment friendly products for the home has become an increasingly important consideration for homeowners looking to make "green" improvements to their living space. To address this growing need, products such as flooring, lighting and paneling, as well as materials like paint and varnish are now readily available for virtually every remodeling project and every room in the house.

Numerous States have now also adopted legislation that limits the use of products that contain harmful fumes or chemicals. The good thing about this is, other than the obvious Green benefits, that many of the products that adhere to the new legislation are also becoming more affordable and are therefore more likely to be found on the shelves in our local hardware and home improvement stores.

See The Light! And Still Save on Energy Bills

It's no secret that energy prices have soared and if you are planning a home improvement project, one of the simplest ways you can protect the environment - as well as save money - is to use less electricity.

Lighting and major appliances consume the most electricity; simply by switching to fluorescent bulbs, you can save up to 30% a year on your electricity bills. You can save a noticeable amount of money on your lighting costs by painting walls a lighter color, thus distributing light more effortlessly as well as making rooms appear brighter.

Leaking ducts can account for a surprising amount of wasted energy - up to 30%. If you are planning to caulk around ducts, vents and windows be sure to use a product that complies with recent regulations concerning the use of less VOCs in its manufacture. These are volatile organic compounds which contain pollutants that damage the ozone layer, and also contribute to producing smog.

Paint may be your biggest cause of concern if you are planning a home improvement project. Read the small print on the tin to make sure it complies with VOC standards - almost 30 brands are now readily available. Typically, lighter colors of paint tend to contain fewer VOCs.

Tip-Top Countertops

Kitchen countertops are an area where it is possible to help the environment. A recent innovation is a countertop made entirely of recycled paper and water-based resin. You can also install countertops made of paper and cement so that the production involves no quarrying that damages the land.

The bathroom is one of the most important areas where you can help protect the environment. Around 75% of all water used in the home is used by the bathroom shower, toilet and sink combined. Low flow or adjustable showerheads are easy to install and a dual flush toilet - offering a full or half-flush - can potentially lower a typical water bill by up to $75 a year. An estimated 4 trillion gallons of water would be saved every year in the United States if every household installed a dual flush toilet.

The Japanese are well known for their inventive labor-saving and technologically advanced devices. One of their latest innovations may soon be commonplace in the United States - an ingenious combination toilet/bathroom sink - you wash your hands in water that is then used to flush the toilet.

Get Floored! In The Utmost Style of Course

And one of the biggest trends in home improvement? Many people, especially those moving into a new home, consider installing a new floor covering as one of their most important projects. Cork, bamboo and reclaimed wood flooring all have a strong visual appeal as well as helping the environment, and in recent years, these alternative materials for flooring have become popular.

Cork flooring has excellent insulating qualities and can save on energy costs; it also reduces noise and can help keep a home free from allergens. What's more, it is surprisingly tough as well as being water resistant.

And one other thing to keep in mind if you are "going green" when remodeling or improving your home. Always dispose of old or unwanted materials safely - many materials can be donated for people to reuse, or otherwise recycled. If in doubt, check with your county recycling program.

The next time you are making improvements to your living space be sure to do your bit to protect our precious planet... Go Green!

Hemorrhoids: Causes, Symptoms, Prevention, Treatment

Hemorrhoids, often called piles, are swollen and inflamed veins in and around the anus and lower rectum. They are much like varicose veins you might see on a person's legs.

Hemorrhoids are a very common health problem. Hemorrhoids cause serious problems in about 4% (over 10 million) of people in the United States. Prevalence of hemorrhoidal disease increases with age until the seventh decade and then diminishes slightly. Hemorrhoids also increase in pregnancy due to direct pressure on the rectal veins.

Causes of hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are caused by too much pressure in the rectum, forcing blood to stretch and swell the blood vessels. People whose parents had hemorrhoids may be more likely to get them.

Most common causes of hemorrhoids:

straining with bowel movements (from constipation or hard stools)
diarrhea
constant sitting
sitting on the toilet for a long time
childbirth
pressure of the fetus in pregnant women
heavy lifting
familial tendency
obesity

Symptoms

Symptoms of hemorrhoids include:

rectal bleeding
pain around the anus and rectum
irritation and itching
bulge or lump at the anus

Excessive straining, rubbing or cleaning the anus may worsen symptoms. In most cases, the symptoms of hemorrhoids will only last a few days. Not every one with hemorrhoids will experience symptoms.

Types of hemorrhoids

The type of hemorrhoid depends on where it occurs. There are two types of hemorrhoids: internal and external.

External hemorrhoids develop around the rim of the anus. External hemorrhoids cause most of the symptoms associated with hemorrhoids (pain, burning, and itching) because the skin around them is very sensitive. If an external hemorrhoid becomes strangulated (cut off from blood supply), a clot can form in it and become an excruciatingly painful thrombosed hemorrhoid. Thrombosis of an external hemorrhoid causes an anal lump that is very painful and often requires medical attention.

Internal hemorrhoids develop inside the passageway of the anus. Internal hemorrhoids are often present without causing any discomfort or even awareness of their presence. Internal hemorrhoids are usually painless, although they sometimes cause discomfort and bleeding if a hard stool rubs against them during a bowel movement. Internal hemorrhoids also may prolapse outside the anus, where they appear as small, grape-like masses. These can be painful. A prolapsed hemorrhoid will go back inside the rectum on its own, or you can gently press it back into the anus with your fingertips.

Internal hemorrhoids are classified by the degree of tissue prolapse into the anal canal:

First-degree - hemorrhoids that bleed but do not prolapse
Second-degree - hemorrhoids that prolapse with straining or defecating and retract on their own
Third-degree - hemorrhoids that prolapse and require manual reduction
Fourth-degree - hemorrhoids that chronically prolapse and, if reducible, fall out again

Mixed hemorrhoids are confluent internal and external hemorrhoids.

Prevention

You often can prevent hemorrhoids by preventing constipation and straining to have bowel movements. Some of the following diet and lifestyle changes may help you to soften the stool, and avoid the straining that can lead to hemorrhoids:

Include more fiber in your diet - fresh fruits, leafy vegetables, and whole-grain breads and cereals are good sources of fiber.
Drink adequate amounts of fluids - 6 to 8 glasses of water daily.
Exercise regularly
Do not strain or sit on the toilet for long periods of time. Straining for more than 5 minutes can be harmful. Try not to stay on the toilet any longer than necessary.
Use a soothing wipe, such as baby wipes or witch hazel pads, to clean after each bowel movement and to ease the pain.
If your main job activity is seated, always stand or walk during your breaks. Make it a point to stand and walk at least 5 minutes every hour and try to shift frequently in your chair to avoid direct rectal pressure.
Avoid heavy lifting, which puts pressure on the anal opening.

Treatment

A number of surgical methods may be used to remove or reduce the size of hemorrhoids:

Rubber band ligation - A rubber band is placed around the base of the hemorrhoid inside the rectum. The band cuts off circulation, and the hemorrhoid withers away within a few days.
Sclerotherapy is one of the oldest forms of treatment. A chemical solution is injected directly into the hemorrhoid or the area around it. This solution causes a local reaction that interferes with blood flow inside the hemorrhoid, making the hemorrhoid shrink.
Laser or electro-coagulation techniques - Both techniques use special devices to burn hemorrhoidal tissue.
Cryotherapy uses cold temperatures to obliterate the veins and cause inflammation and scarring. It is more time consuming, associated with more posttreatment pain, and is less effective than other treatments. Therefore, this procedure is not commonly used.
Hemorrhoidectomy - Occasionally, extensive or severe internal or external hemorrhoids may require removal by surgery known as hemorrhoidectomy. This is the best method for permanent removal of hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoidectomy is the treatment for severe third-degree and fourth-degree hemorrhoids.

Sclerotherapy, ligation, and heat coagulation are all good options for the treatment of hemorrhoids.

Neo Healar - herbal remedy for hemorrhoid

Neo Healar is a 100% herbal product that is composed on four natural occurring plants: Lupinus Albus, Vateria Indica, Mentha Piperita and Aloe Vera. Neo Healar is available in two forms: 30 g ointment and suppositories (in 10s).

Three Reasons Why We Have Contaminated Tap Water

Whenever we hear about contaminated tap water we worry about how that might affect us, not only in health terms but in having a reliable, clean supply for all those domestic tasks and chores where water is necessary. While we need not cover all the reasons, this article will be looking at just three of them which I regard worthy of mention.

This first particular point might be more relevant to those of you who live in rural areas or communities where agriculture is a key industry. I guess you could call it an industry as it relies on farming vast swathes of land with large machinery and using chemical sprays to control pests and weeds. When we talk of crop yields in terms of so many tons per acre, we often forget that sometimes the price for having all that cheap food is contaminated tap water.

What our farmers cannot stop is the residues of these potent chemical compounds leeching into underground water supplies. It's some of these very same ones that feed into the general distribution network that enters our municipal plants for treatment.

Secondly, the way in which we manufacture and produce our everyday goods and items often produces harmful to human health by-products and waste material. Whilst dumping it straight into our rivers has been outlawed and maybe more regulated than years before, in some cases the damage has already been done. Previous neglect by those in power has resulted in us having contaminated tap water.

It's quite ironic then that many of these are petro-chemical based compounds used in the making of plastic bottles for bottling natural mineral water.

Thirdly and lastly we take a swipe at the drugs companies and medical clinics, centers and similar establishments. It seems very few places offer the public a service whereby they can take their old, unused medicines, pills and potions to be destroyed. Instead, and because it's much easier to do, they simply flush this stuff down the toilet. You'd be surprised as how much of it is soluble once it's been in contact with water long enough.

Of course the treatment it receives prior to us drinking it is a consideration but how many of us bother to read or even ask for a water quality report from these places. Until recently I wasn't even aware that was possible, so I took matters into my own hands and installed a home treatment system to avoid getting any more contaminated tap water.

What To Check When Buying A Used Home

When buying used or foreclosed homes, you can usually find lists of foreclosed or previously-owned homes at your county hall, at the courthouses, or online through many different real estate listing websites. While buying used, or either foreclosed homes has many benefits, there are definitely some risks involved.

Old homes can be just as problematic, or worse, as back-breaking, as new ones. In fact, because they have been tested by years of use and abuse, they can be filled with problems, especially if the builder used any shoddy, unethical house-building methods. It would be best to hire a qualified house inspector before you buy as a good hedge against very expensive surprises.

But then again, hiring a house inspector can be very costly -- from several hundred to a thousand dollars or more. However, if you ultimately end up buying the house, this is money well spent. On the other hand, if the house has serious drawbacks, you're better cut off saving the cost of the inspector and moving on to a better prospect.

In order to determine a house's overall quality before you decide to get the services of a house inspector, here are a few suggestions to keep in mind:

o Make a thorough check of the structure. From a considerably distant vantage point, take a good look at the house. Do the walls appear to be plumb and flat? Then go inside, and see, are any walls bowed or not square at corners? When you go to the middle of the living room floor, does it flex or feel solid?

o Inspect water control facility. Does the ground slope away from the base of the house? Will gutters, downspouts and drainage pipes carry excess water away from the house, or directly into the basement? Scout for any evidence of water damage.

o Take note of the finer details. Check on the quality of workmanship in the finish details such as moldings, tile work, hardware, wall panels and paint.

o Where's the roof?. Is the roof new and in good shape? Go up and see if looks neat and properly applied.

o Verify the quality of the electrical system. Are the number and locations of receptacles adequate to the needs of the house? Is the main circuit breaker marked at least "100 amps"?

o Inspect kitchen and bathroom fixtures. See if the sinks, toilets and tubs have quality fixtures. Find out if they do work properly. When you turn on the faucets and flush the toilet, check if the water pressure is adequate.

o Water heater and plumbing systems. Verify if the water heater is either gas or electric. Water supply pipes from the water heater to fixtures should be copper.

o Heating systems. Locate where the furnace or heater is and what type is it. Find out if any rooms are not heated. Is the house air-conditioned?

o Insulation concerns. Take a peek at the the attic and check for insulation; R-19 is a minimum in moderate climates; and up to R-38 (12 inches of fiberglass) is required in cold climates. Remove the receptacle cover on the perimeter wall to check for wall insulation.

o Fireplace quality. Find out if the fireplace has screens or glass doors, and dampers and log lighters. Is there a combustion vent that draws air from the outside and a spark arrestor at the top of the chimney?

Real Estate Press - http://realestatepress.org

Dual Flush Toilets

The technology of dual flush toilet was introduced in Australia and the first dual flush toilet was invented by Bruce Thompson in 1980. Toilet flushes consume the maximum water usage; therefore to reduce water consumption and use water efficiently the dual flush toilet was introduced. As per the reports of Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) by 2013 almost 36 states will be experiencing water shortage due to excessive water usage and inefficiency in water resource management. The technology is catching quick pace in countries experiencing water shortage.

The toilet gives the user a choice of flushes. This innovative toilet design has 2 buttons, where one is for liquid waste and another for solid waste. The short flush is used for liquid waste where as the full flush is used for solid waste. The toilet consumes less quantity of water in order to flush the waste away. The ordinary flush system uses the pressure of water combined with air in order to flush the waste out, where as in the dual system only the pressure of water is utilized to flush out the waste. This reason makes the dual flush toilet water efficient. The other interesting thing to note is that even in full flush the consumption of water is lesser than that used in the ordinary flush system.

The ordinary flush system can be easily converted into a double flush system; there are 2 methods of doing this. Either, the entire toilet has to be altered or the inner portions of the ordinary flush tank can be replaced with the Dual Action Flush Lever as well as Dual Flush Toilets Valve, using a conversion kit. This can be easily done at a nominal cost of 29 USD to 30 USD.

Advantages of Dual Flush Toilets:
o The dual system helps to minimize the water consumption to a minimum.
o It helps to save water usage to an average of 67% in a household.
o This system gives the user a choice of flush, either short flush or full flushes.
o By using water efficient flushes, we can contribute a little to save our planet, Earth.
o Very efficient for those countries facing water shortage problems.

The main disadvantage of the dual flush toilet is that the installation is difficult and it's not very easy to do the maintenance. The other drawback of the flush toilets is the cost; it may range from 250 USD to $750. However, its advantages rise above its disadvantages.

Drive Your RV From Banff, Alberta To Whistler, BC - There Are Many RV Parks All Along Your Route

The Province of British Columbia operate a great many beautiful parks. Rates are very reasonable. Depending upon your site services you may pay anywhere from $9.00 to $28.00 per night. Nearly all have restrooms with flush toilets, showers, nice large sites with good solid tables with table tops 8 cm (3 inches) thick. Each site is equipped with a fire ring. You will need to watch for the water supply on your way through the parks to your site and fill up if needed. You can trust the supply as the Provincial Park water supply is well monitored. Some sites have on site hosts.

Most Provincial Park campgrounds do not have electricity or water at individual sites. Water is always available in the park and most have dumping stations. Services are available at Steelhead and Juniper Beach near Kamloops.

The most popular sites will be serviced by concessionaires who will come around to your site in the evening to collect the fee and sell firewood. If you want a fire I suggest you buy it as it is not only fairly dry but it is split for you.

I should also note that the parks people really frown on cutting down a tree for firewood and by doing so you could find your self in very deep trouble.

Of course there are a great many privately owned RV parks. Expect to have more services like electric power and water, cable TV etc. The rates are variable depending upon the quality of the park and the services offered. You can expect to pay anywhere from $24.00 up to $45.00

If you have arrived at Hope and it's around one in the afternoon, I would suggest staying in the Fraser Valley (runs from Hope to Vancouver) for the rest of the day and get an earlier start the next morning for Whistler.

There are privately operated parks at Hope, Harrison Hot Springs (5 of them) Heerling Island before Chilliwack and a few more here and there.

A large Provincial park is located at Cultas Lake. The three campgrounds all are exceptional but are very popular by the locals. You may have a chance of getting in from Monday through Thursday morning without a reservation, however weekends are mostly sold out very early.

There is a Provincial Park Reservation system. The phone number is 1-800-689-9025.

You can get to Cultas Lake by taking the 119B exit from Hope onto Vedder Mountain road, drive through town until you cross the iron bridge across the Chilliwack river. Continue along 1 km (½ mile) to the stop light. Turn left up the hill and follow the Columbia Valley road for 6 km (3 ½ miles) to the park entrance.

The Provincial Park sites, on the whole are nice and large with plenty of room for motor homes, travel trailers and tenting. Some sections may be marked "available for reservation". This means that if you park in that site and the park fills up overnight you may need to move next day.

Note. The reason I suggest you stay overnight here is you may run into the heavy supper hour traffic going through Vancouver which tends to be quite congested from 3 to 8 pm. Better to wait until morning.

Another reason is that you don't want to travel from Vancouver to Whistler in the dark or you will miss the totally incredible scenery along the route. We class the Sea to Sky highway as one of the worlds most scenic highways.

There is a scarcity of full service RV Parks along the Whistler corridor. There are a few Provincial campgrounds but in Whistler itself there is only on RV park. Riverside RV Resort & Campground. It has 107 sites and open year round. Motorhome travel allows for many options.

BC Parks operate several very nice campgrounds. Britannia Beach is a small one but a beauty. Just before you reach Britannia you will see the sign for Porteau Cove Provincial Park. Try it, you may get lucky and find a site. It's a popular site.

Alice Lake is a good park with large sites. 13 km (7 miles) past Squamish on your right.

Nairn falls is another BC parks campground. Approximately 30 minutes north of Whistler on your right. Nice big sites. The falls are a great attraction.

Birkenhead is another BC park north of Mount Currie. Set on a beautiful lake.

Toilet Removal is Easy to Do

Removing an old toilet is not a very hard job, but it can be messy. Have plenty of rags on hand to clean as you go. Four tools should do the job. You will need a socket wrench, an adjustable wrench, screwdriver, and some type of scraper to scrape up old wax ring.

First we will need to shut off the water at the shut off valve either on the wall or floor. Once the water is shut off, flush the toilet to empty the tank. Next, using a sponge and rags sop up the remaining water left in the tank. So far so good? Good.

Using the adjustable wrench, disconnect the water supply tube from the bottom of the toilet tank. Then using the socket wrench remove the nuts that bolt the tank to the toilet. Now you can remove the tank from the toilet and carefully set it aside.

Next, using the screwdriver, pry off the caps that cover the floor bolts. Use your adjustable wrench to remove the nuts from the floor bolts. Now rock the toilet until the seal breaks and pull the toilet straight up off the floor bolts. Your toilet is now fully removed.

With the scraper, scrape up the old wax ring from the toilet flange on the floor. Insert a rag into the sewer hole to prevent sewer gas from escaping until you are ready to install your new toilet. You will realize this job is easier than you expected and it will give you confidence in tackling bigger jobs. Happy flushing.