A kitchen island is not a new concept, since they were known back in the medieval days when knights were bold. They are assuming increasing popularity in today's kitchens, particularly in larger homes where the kitchen is more than just a small cooking area compressed into an area somewhere between the dining room and the garden shed!
Even in smaller kitchens people are examining the possibilities that could arise by clearing away the traditional kitchen cabinets, and replacing them with kitchen islands that offer the same amount of walking space if not more. Here are some ideas for a kitchen island that is not plumbed in to serve a sink, but that offers a great deal of storage space and can effectively make your kitchen appear larger.
Here are some of the benefits that a kitchen island can offer:
• Increased workspace
• Storage for cutlery and cooking utensils
• Seating and eating areas
• Provide a working surface for food preparation
• Incorporate a waste bin
There are many more benefits according to how you use this type of kitchen furniture. However, before making the decision to purchase a kitchen island, you have some important factors to take into consideration, not the least of which is space.
Space and Design are Important
You need around 3 feet of walking space around the island unit, and you must be sure that the drawers and doors in the cabinets have room to open. If you keep to the 36 inches then you should be OK. The only dimension that must be stated is that of the counter height. Ideally it should be the same as the rest of your kitchen units. If not, then it is not a disaster, but can be disconcerting when you are working on the various surfaces at varying heights.
Another problem you might face if you buy your kitchen island as a separate unit, and not as part of the overall kitchen, is matching it to your existing cabinets. This might not be as easy as your think, but if you purchase a solid color, such as black, white or red, then you should get away with it.
Regarding colors and designs, kitchen islands can be made from a number of different materials. The framework is usually wood, but the main visible surfaces could be metal or even stone - granite is a popular substance used for counter tops. Stainless steel is also good, but try to avoid aluminum if possible, because that is very soft and easily cut and scratched, and the metal oxidizes to a dull finish.
Consider the Services
If you need a power supply for appliances, you can run it up through a pipe or conduit up to the ceiling, or even better, run a line below the floorboards up into the kitchen island. Make sure your installation conforms to local and national regulations. You are advised to employ a qualified electrician to do this.
Many islands are fitted with burners and sinks with a hot and cold water supply, but this is not essential if you already have a traditional sink and stove. There are many different designs of pot hooks or racks that can be used on or above your island. Many people fit hooks to the ceiling to hold cooking pans of different types, but that will depend on the height of your ceiling.
Mind Your Head!
If you are hanging anything from the ceiling, make sure that there is sufficient clearance so that people do not bang their heads on a skillet or frying pan! Clearance is all-important with kitchen islands, because there is not a lot worse than having a kitchen that is severely restricted in space just to accommodate an island. The island should complement your kitchen, not dominate it.
Safety First!
You are better off without it if you are using up all the free space in the room. Your kitchen should be spacious and you should never feel restricted in your movement - in fact it can be dangerous if you are. Yes, a kitchen island is good to have, but not if your safety and freedom of movement are compromised to accommodate it.
A kitchen island can be a useful item of kitchen furniture, but it must serve a purpose and must not be restrictive. Given these provisos, then it can convert an ordinary kitchen into a room you will love to be in and show off to your friends and neighbors.
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Proper Fish Stocking Helps Create a Healthy Lake Environment
One service a reputable lake management company offers to lake and pond owners is detailed consultation with regards to maintaining a healthy fish population. If you have a body of water on your property for recreational purposes - namely fishing - you naturally want to sit anytime and enjoy a day catching (and in some cases releasing) fish. Whether for private leisure or as part of a fish camp, this water property should be properly stocked and the water tested regularly. The health of those using the lake and the aquatic life within depend on a high level of vigilance and care.
If you are new to large-scale fish stocking, you should know there is a science to it that must be heeded. This is very different from when you had a bowl at home and arbitrarily dumped in pet shop goldfish and guppies and figured they would get along. Many factors are considered as lake management biologists prepare to stock a lake, and it is strongly advised to consult with professionals so that your water property remains in excellent shape.
The size of your lake or pond plays an important role in stocking. Fish need room to move and breathe, and if your lake is less than an acre you may be limited to the types of fish you can keep. Bass, a popular type of lake fish, may be considered too large to be contained in a smaller lake, so your lake management company may likely advise you of alternative fishes, like catfish.
Bear in mind, too, that certain fish eat more than other breeds. The aforementioned catfish are known as bottom feeders, so it's important to make sure your lake has enough sustenance for them to survive. The number of fish you initially stock in your water is important, too, because you have to consider how often the fish breed and hatch. An over-populated pond or lake will cause problems, and over-harvesting the fish is not always a viable solution. Extreme measures in any case can have a negative effect on your lake environment.
The type and size of fish, the frequency with which they breed and hatch, and how they eat are all factors that need to be determined in order to maintain that healthy balance of aquatic life and lake environment. Meet with a reputable lake management company to discuss how you can properly stock your lake.
If you are new to large-scale fish stocking, you should know there is a science to it that must be heeded. This is very different from when you had a bowl at home and arbitrarily dumped in pet shop goldfish and guppies and figured they would get along. Many factors are considered as lake management biologists prepare to stock a lake, and it is strongly advised to consult with professionals so that your water property remains in excellent shape.
The size of your lake or pond plays an important role in stocking. Fish need room to move and breathe, and if your lake is less than an acre you may be limited to the types of fish you can keep. Bass, a popular type of lake fish, may be considered too large to be contained in a smaller lake, so your lake management company may likely advise you of alternative fishes, like catfish.
Bear in mind, too, that certain fish eat more than other breeds. The aforementioned catfish are known as bottom feeders, so it's important to make sure your lake has enough sustenance for them to survive. The number of fish you initially stock in your water is important, too, because you have to consider how often the fish breed and hatch. An over-populated pond or lake will cause problems, and over-harvesting the fish is not always a viable solution. Extreme measures in any case can have a negative effect on your lake environment.
The type and size of fish, the frequency with which they breed and hatch, and how they eat are all factors that need to be determined in order to maintain that healthy balance of aquatic life and lake environment. Meet with a reputable lake management company to discuss how you can properly stock your lake.
Occasional Tables: More Than Just Coffee Tables
When people think of the term 'occasional tables' they immediately think of coffee tables - as though there were no other type of occasional table. In fact, there are many different types ranging from drop-leaf and other extendable designs to those fitted with drawers, those designed to go with fire pits and lemonade stands to mention just a few of the possibilities.
Let's have a quick look at occasional tables and exactly what the term means. First, what does 'occasional' mean? It is term that we often see in magazines, stores and on websites, but few can agree on what it actually means. Each person has his or her own opinion on the matter, and it doesn't help that there appears to be no correct answer. Here are the three main options:
1. Furniture Used Occasionally
Some believe it to be furniture that is used now and again, or occasionally! You don't always use it - only when needed. However, that seems to be the definition of any piece of furniture - one that is used when needed. Whether you require it for a meal, for writing on or for putting your drinks on, it is used only when needed! So that definition doesn't hold water.
2. It is Only a Table Occasionally
So what is it the rest of the time - a chair? This argument doesn't compute because even when not in use an occasional table is still a table. It doesn't just become one when not required! That cannot be the definition, although it could be brought out occasionally, only when needed.
3. You only use it for Special Occasions
Perhaps it is one that is only used on special occasions: such as when you have more guests than normal, or there is a special event that needs a table not used at any other time.
Perhaps you can see now why it is difficult to get people to agree on what the term means. In fact, there is another more sensible definition that relates to individual pieces of furniture that are not part of a set, and that are purchased for a specific purpose. For example, you may have a sectional or a set of armchairs and sofas that are designed and upholstered as a set.
However, you also need a single chair, such as a lift chair, for en elderly member of the family: that would be an occasional chair. In the same way, if you required a side or end table unavailable with the set of living room furniture you have, then that could be referred to as an occasional table. It is an individual piece that is different to the general furniture in your room.
A Proposed Definition
In that respect, it is a concept rather than an individual item. It used with a set of furniture, but is not part of it. During the 17th - 19th centuries, an occasional table was one with a drop leaf that could be raised to provide additional room. That is, it could be converted on a specific occasion when needed.
So that is the definition proposed: a table that can be converted to something else on special occasions. Most will find that an old-fashioned concept, and it is highly likely that the term will continue to be used for any item of furniture that is additional to the general style of furniture in a room.
What Occasional Tables are Available
There many types of such furniture available at your nearest furniture store. You can check them out online, and then visit your nearest showroom to view them properly. Most are in the form of the ubiquitous coffee table, but there are many more than you might have to consider. An end table is useful if you prefer to place your drinks to your right or left rather than have to bend down to a board on legs that is standing in the way right in front of you at a height that forces you to bend in order to pick up and replace your cup or glass.
Occasional tables come in a variety of styles, finishes and colors, and their choice seems to be a very personal thing. Many people will use a highly decorative example in a room that is otherwise normal, while others will select a highly colored style, with or without drawers or a drop leaf, to provide a splash of color to a room. The choice is yours.
Let's have a quick look at occasional tables and exactly what the term means. First, what does 'occasional' mean? It is term that we often see in magazines, stores and on websites, but few can agree on what it actually means. Each person has his or her own opinion on the matter, and it doesn't help that there appears to be no correct answer. Here are the three main options:
1. Furniture Used Occasionally
Some believe it to be furniture that is used now and again, or occasionally! You don't always use it - only when needed. However, that seems to be the definition of any piece of furniture - one that is used when needed. Whether you require it for a meal, for writing on or for putting your drinks on, it is used only when needed! So that definition doesn't hold water.
2. It is Only a Table Occasionally
So what is it the rest of the time - a chair? This argument doesn't compute because even when not in use an occasional table is still a table. It doesn't just become one when not required! That cannot be the definition, although it could be brought out occasionally, only when needed.
3. You only use it for Special Occasions
Perhaps it is one that is only used on special occasions: such as when you have more guests than normal, or there is a special event that needs a table not used at any other time.
Perhaps you can see now why it is difficult to get people to agree on what the term means. In fact, there is another more sensible definition that relates to individual pieces of furniture that are not part of a set, and that are purchased for a specific purpose. For example, you may have a sectional or a set of armchairs and sofas that are designed and upholstered as a set.
However, you also need a single chair, such as a lift chair, for en elderly member of the family: that would be an occasional chair. In the same way, if you required a side or end table unavailable with the set of living room furniture you have, then that could be referred to as an occasional table. It is an individual piece that is different to the general furniture in your room.
A Proposed Definition
In that respect, it is a concept rather than an individual item. It used with a set of furniture, but is not part of it. During the 17th - 19th centuries, an occasional table was one with a drop leaf that could be raised to provide additional room. That is, it could be converted on a specific occasion when needed.
So that is the definition proposed: a table that can be converted to something else on special occasions. Most will find that an old-fashioned concept, and it is highly likely that the term will continue to be used for any item of furniture that is additional to the general style of furniture in a room.
What Occasional Tables are Available
There many types of such furniture available at your nearest furniture store. You can check them out online, and then visit your nearest showroom to view them properly. Most are in the form of the ubiquitous coffee table, but there are many more than you might have to consider. An end table is useful if you prefer to place your drinks to your right or left rather than have to bend down to a board on legs that is standing in the way right in front of you at a height that forces you to bend in order to pick up and replace your cup or glass.
Occasional tables come in a variety of styles, finishes and colors, and their choice seems to be a very personal thing. Many people will use a highly decorative example in a room that is otherwise normal, while others will select a highly colored style, with or without drawers or a drop leaf, to provide a splash of color to a room. The choice is yours.
Monday, October 29, 2012
4 Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Start That Renovation
Renovating your home can be both exciting and stressful!
If you're chock full of emotion, remember that you're not alone. More Americans are renovating their homes these days instead of heading out and buying new ones. The unhealthy real estate market is causing more people to stay put.
So, remember the positives -- like the fact that you are making upgrades that will modernize your living space and will make it more appealing if you ever put it on the market.
But there are also some drawbacks -- like having workers in your home, and the likely fact that you will have to adjust your day-to-day lifestyle while they complete the projects. And, of course, you may face some surprises along the way.
So, are you ready for the good and the bad? To make sure, ask yourself these 4 questions:
1. "Have I checked my contractor's legal paperwork?"
Any reliable and respectable contractor will have all the necessary paperwork to prove they are legit. The requirements vary from state-to-state (and, in some cases, county-to-county) but generally speaking, all contractors should be licensed, bonded, and insured.
A license from the state proves they completed all the proper training and legal paperwork to work as a contractor. As for insurance, well, that will come in handy for you, should they damage your home during the construction, or fail to complete the job. After all, you probably haven't budgeted for a disaster!
2. "Am I okay with living in a construction zone?"
This may seem like a ridiculous question, but, you'd be surprised how many people think they can handle the construction before it gets started, only to be annoyed by it once it gets underway. Everyone understands the demolition, noise, and reconstruction are means to an end, but it's hard to visualize these things happening until they actually do.
Say, for example, you're adding on to your current living room, and a wall will have to be knocked down in the process. Will the eyesore of a construction zone bother you? Can you deal with the noise?
These are definitely questions that need to be answered before hiring a crew to knock down that wall!
3. "Have I budgeted for surprises along the way?"
Contractors give you a price quote for a reason -- so that you'll know roughly how much the repair will cost.
But like any other price quote, this is just a ballpark estimate.
Additional costs may pop up for labor and supplies, or something completely unexpected may occur, and you need to be prepared for these expenses.
Be sure to have 10-15% more money available than the price the contractor quoted you. That may seem like a lot, especially if you're one of the many Americans who are footing the bill without the help of a loan. But consider it this way -- if you need it, you have it, and if you don't, you'll have some extra money to put in savings.
4. "Am I okay with it taking longer than expected?"
If there's one thing no one can control, including contractors, it's the weather! This is especially important to remember if the outside physical structure of your home is being changed during the renovation.
If they've knocked down a wall of your house to add on that additional bedroom you've always wanted, and then it rains, guess what, they can't work in that kind of weather. They'll put up tarps up to protect your belongings in the meantime, but they'll be on hold until the rain clouds go away.
The same is true if you're replacing the roof, replacing siding, adding on a deck, or putting in a pool.
Setting Mother Nature aside, if something unexpected comes up and additional work is required, not only will this affect your project's budget, but also its completion date.
If you're chock full of emotion, remember that you're not alone. More Americans are renovating their homes these days instead of heading out and buying new ones. The unhealthy real estate market is causing more people to stay put.
So, remember the positives -- like the fact that you are making upgrades that will modernize your living space and will make it more appealing if you ever put it on the market.
But there are also some drawbacks -- like having workers in your home, and the likely fact that you will have to adjust your day-to-day lifestyle while they complete the projects. And, of course, you may face some surprises along the way.
So, are you ready for the good and the bad? To make sure, ask yourself these 4 questions:
1. "Have I checked my contractor's legal paperwork?"
Any reliable and respectable contractor will have all the necessary paperwork to prove they are legit. The requirements vary from state-to-state (and, in some cases, county-to-county) but generally speaking, all contractors should be licensed, bonded, and insured.
A license from the state proves they completed all the proper training and legal paperwork to work as a contractor. As for insurance, well, that will come in handy for you, should they damage your home during the construction, or fail to complete the job. After all, you probably haven't budgeted for a disaster!
2. "Am I okay with living in a construction zone?"
This may seem like a ridiculous question, but, you'd be surprised how many people think they can handle the construction before it gets started, only to be annoyed by it once it gets underway. Everyone understands the demolition, noise, and reconstruction are means to an end, but it's hard to visualize these things happening until they actually do.
Say, for example, you're adding on to your current living room, and a wall will have to be knocked down in the process. Will the eyesore of a construction zone bother you? Can you deal with the noise?
These are definitely questions that need to be answered before hiring a crew to knock down that wall!
3. "Have I budgeted for surprises along the way?"
Contractors give you a price quote for a reason -- so that you'll know roughly how much the repair will cost.
But like any other price quote, this is just a ballpark estimate.
Additional costs may pop up for labor and supplies, or something completely unexpected may occur, and you need to be prepared for these expenses.
Be sure to have 10-15% more money available than the price the contractor quoted you. That may seem like a lot, especially if you're one of the many Americans who are footing the bill without the help of a loan. But consider it this way -- if you need it, you have it, and if you don't, you'll have some extra money to put in savings.
4. "Am I okay with it taking longer than expected?"
If there's one thing no one can control, including contractors, it's the weather! This is especially important to remember if the outside physical structure of your home is being changed during the renovation.
If they've knocked down a wall of your house to add on that additional bedroom you've always wanted, and then it rains, guess what, they can't work in that kind of weather. They'll put up tarps up to protect your belongings in the meantime, but they'll be on hold until the rain clouds go away.
The same is true if you're replacing the roof, replacing siding, adding on a deck, or putting in a pool.
Setting Mother Nature aside, if something unexpected comes up and additional work is required, not only will this affect your project's budget, but also its completion date.
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