Amazing Boston Attic Remodel Ideas
Often times, attics are a part of people’s homes that they really do not consider sprucing up. Attics in Boston are frequently places to store old things that are no longer of use to us, but that we have not come to terms with tossing out. If you are a freethinking type of person, then you may have realized that remodeling your Boston attic is a great way to create some inviting new space in your home.
A variety of different factors must be taken into consideration before embarking on an attic remodel, including such issues as insulation, low-hanging beams, and piping. Your attic should be thoroughly looked at by a Boston remodeling professional before you begin to make sure your plans are possible in the space available.
The size of your project will naturally dictate your cost, so keep this in mind as you create the basics attic remodeling ideas plans. If you want an elaborate overhaul of your entire attic, this could wind up being quite expensive, particularly if you have a very large attic and want to include a bathroom or an in-law suite with a kitchen. Another thing to consider is whether or not your remodeled attic will be used by people on a regular basis. Are you planning to turn it into an extra room, or are you only going to use it for neat and organized storage space? Your answer to this question will greatly affect the total cost of your project.
Obtaining the services of a reliable, reputable Boston contractor is absolutely essential for any of your attic remodeling ideas. It is important not only for you to obtain several references from each contractor that you receive estimates from, but also for you to follow up with those references. This will help to provide you with a fairly good idea of how reliable and honest each Boston contractor is, and will ultimately help you to make the best choice.
Choosing Vinyl Windows for Energy Efficiency in Boston
If you’ve been living in your home for years or have recently moved to a new home you may notice the unwelcome chills on colder nights. You may find you have the heating on for longer periods and your energy bill is sky high, this could be due to your windows.
Your windows and doors along with walls offer the insulation your home needs. These days everything comes with an energy star rating to help you choose the best energy efficiency for your home, this way you reduce your energy bill.
If you’re living in a home that came with the windows, you will probably have no idea how well insulated they really are. While you may know if they’re double or triple glazed, if they haven’t been installed correctly the cold air may be sneaking in giving you those very unwelcome chills.
Inspect
The best time to check the window installation is on a really cold day, go around each window and door and feel with the back of your hand along the edges, the sill and the top. If there is cold air getting in you will be able to feel it pushing through.
Often this can be repaired with some insulation and you can be back on track, but in other cases you will need to consider replacing your windows to save you money in the long run.
Sealing
There are three options when you notice that your windows are leaking, the first is to put sealer all the way around the frame in an attempt to seal the leaks, the second is remove the window all together, weather proof it and seal it again and the third is to replace the windows completely.
Replacement
In the majority of cases by the time you’ve removed the window, weather proofed, replaced and resealed it’s not only cost you a lot of time, but a lot of money as well. Boston vinyl window replacements are guaranteed to be energy efficient if you know what you are looking for. You choose between the materials used, the glazing and the U factor, which is the energy efficiency factor and this way you can reduce your overall energy bill dramatically by spending a small sum of money.
Top Reasons Why You Should Choose Vinyl Windows
Before deciding what material to buy your new windows in, it’s a good idea to understand why everyone is turning to vinyl windows. These are made from a type of plastic, better known as PVC which offers so many wonderful benefits over wood, fibreglass or aluminum.
- Energy Efficiency
- Durable
- Maintenance Free
The first and foremost thing about vinyl windows is how energy efficient they are, there is no risk of the cold air getting into your home or your wonderful warm air escaping on a frosty night.
Vinyl windows come already insulated, which means your energy bills will be greatly reduced. Choosing vinyl along with triple glazing for really cold areas is a guaranteed energy efficiency that cannot be beaten.
The thought of having to replace your windows every few years due to weather damage, peeling, chipping or rot is not a pleasant thought. You’re busy replacing your windows for the second or third time already over a set period of time and you want something that doesn’t require constant maintenance, repair or replacement.
Due to the materials used when making vinyl windows these are exceptionally durable, they don’t chip or peel in direct sunlight nor do they rot in wet climates, making them the perfect choice for any home.
Vinyl windows look stylish and are available in a range of colours that will remain looking as good as new for many years.
If you want to know why you should choose vinyl windows, the fact they are maintenance free should be the reason. Buying wooden windows will require regular maintenance to ensure they can withstand the weather changes, they don’t peel or chip.
Vinyl windows don’t get affected by the weather, so they don’t rot or peel and they definitely won’t chip without brute force, so all you need to do is give them a wipe when you wash your windows, to get them looking as good as new.
When you look at all the benefits of vinyl windows, the last point is definitely going to get you smiling; they are affordable compared to many of the other materials on the market.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6954790
If you are looking for a Boston replacement windows then please call 781-591-0855 or complete our online request form.
Tips That Make You Love Your Boston Kitchen Even More
The kitchen is considered a woman’s domain, thus to fill the kitchen with all the accessories will be a delight to her. What would you want for your own kitchen? You don’t have to throw away those antiques hanging around. All you need to do is organize your own cutlery to display those antiques. You don’t have to use them, but they would be a nice collection in one corner of your kitchen. Boston Remodeling ideas for your kitchen don’t need to be expensive as well. You can mix and match the little things such as small tray for pepper, salt, cooking oil, etc. Another tray for creamer, coffee, tea, sugar and cocoa, and a rack for your cups & saucers would be great.
A well arranged cupboard will make your kitchen more spacious. You can beautify your old cupboard by simply replacing its covers. You may choose closet doors such as louvered, sliding, bi-fold or single paneled. More closets and drawers are practical kitchen designer ideas to make a spotless kitchen with added dish drawer, dishwasher and kitchen islands. It would be best if you keep your silverware in a closed drawer to avoid crawling insects that could be harmful to your health. A hanging place for your cookery will be a fine idea to make your kitchen utensils orderly and neat looking.
Countertops can provide very important kitchen designer ideas in making your kitchen more attractive. You can choose marble, granite, corian, faux-granite, laminated or concreted. Just measure the size and shape of your countertop when you make your orders. The company will cut the stones according to your specifications. They will install the countertops for you. A hardwood on another side of your countertop just enough for your rolling pins will be good for your baking ideas. You can plan for all-stainless platforms for your kitchen accessories. A spotless kitchen will tend to make the kids more careful in preparing their snacks.
Food processors, blenders, toasters and mixers are best displayed on your countertops. Microwave ovens as well as cooking grills are necessities you ought to display on your countertops for easier access while cooking. A stainless steel sink will be a good match among your kitchen accessories. A water heater would be an added factor to keep a well sanitized kitchen. It is advisable to adjust your thermostat to 140˚F to prevent incubation of microbes called legionella bacteria. A regular size refrigerator would be an advantage so you can replenish your stuff weekly. Don’t forget to put up an exhaust fan in your kitchen to avoid accumulation of carbon dioxide and to keep your household well ventilated.
Finally, uniformed table utensils will make an elegant look on your dining table with matching table napkins. A set of glass drizzle bottles for olive oil and vinegar with dip saucers will make a good starter to complement your special menus. Hanging pendant lights with matching kitchen wall decors will complete your kitchen design ideas. Change your kitchen motifs according to season and occasion. These are practical kitchen design ideas everyone would love to implement for their Boston kitchen remodeling project.
Room-by-Room Carpet Considerations
Carpet is an excellent flooring choice for many people because it’s comfortable and affordable. In order to determine whether or not carpeting is right for your Boston home, consider two factors: foot traffic and sunlight.
Foot Traffic
Walking from your living room to your upstairs bedroom contributes to the wear and tear on your carpet with each and every step. In order to determine what carpet to select, it’s important to consider how much traffic each area of your Boston home receives.
Recommendation: Choose a dense carpet construction with a low pile height. This carpet won’t easily fray or show wear and will have the most durability for heavy household traffic. Consider carpet styles with loop construction as the ends of the yarn are not exposed, and traffic wears on the tougher edges of the yarn instead of the tips.
Sunlight
Just like sunlight will burn or tan skin, most carpet fibers and dyes are also susceptible to sunlight. Overexposure to sunlight can fade carpet over time. When planning your carpet project, take sun exposure into consideration. While it would seem only darker carpets may be susceptible to fading, lighter colors can actually fade more rapidly than darker carpeting because less dye has gone into the color.
Recommendation: Consider purchasing window coverings or a coating treatment for the windows to block out the sun’s UV rays.
Room–by–Room Practicality
While carpeting is a personal choice in every Boston home, consider a few recommendations for installing different carpet styles in specific rooms when undertaking your remodeling project. Your Boston remodeling contractor is also very familiar with which areas of most homes receive the most wear and tear and can advise you accordingly.
General Rooms
Living Room/ Family Room/ Dining room
The living room or family room is often the central gathering place of your Boston home, so be sure to choose a carpet that can stand up to a lot of wear and tear. Stain resistance is also important, since people may eat and drink in these rooms. For dining rooms, stain resistance is very important.
Recommendation: A loop style carpet with dense construction will hold up to traffic, and a stain resistant fiber type can provide added protection against spills and stains. In the dining room, add an area rug or large plastic mat under the dining table for the likelihood of more frequent spills.
Bedroom/ Office/ Den
Carpet is ideal for bedrooms. You may choose more a comfortable plush carpet for the bedrooms in your Boston home if there is less possibility of excessive wear and tear.
Recommendation: In bedrooms that don’t have a lot of foot traffic, a plush carpet style is ideal for extra comfort and luxury on bare feet. In spare bedrooms that see little use, maybe consider installing less expensive, lower–density carpets.
Stairs and Hallways
Carpets in these high–traffic spaces must be able to handle a lot of wear and tear, and high durability is vital to maintaining a clean appearance.
Recommendation: Carpeting with tight construction or loops works especially well for these spaces. Denser carpets will absorb noise, and sheared carpets will be less likely to show wear and tear from high traffic. Also, consider using hallway rugs to lessen the affects of frequent foot traffic.
Wet Area Rooms
Bathroom/ Kitchen/ Outdoor
Carpeting is not generally recommended for kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas prone to spills or excess water. For outdoor entertaining spaces, carpet made up of moisture/ mildew–resistant fiber (like polypropylene) can be used.
Lifestyle Elements
Once you’ve assessed the foot traffic in your Boston home, consider the additional needs of any pets, young children and individuals using mobility aids in selecting the ideal carpet for your lifestyle.
Allergies
Contrary to popular belief, carpet can actually be a good choice for those with allergies and asthma. When dust mites, pet dander, and other allergens settle in carpet fibers, they are likely to stay put until they are vacuumed up. As long as you vacuum your carpets thoroughly with a HEPA filter vacuum, you can remove the majority of these allergens before they circulate in the air and into your lungs. With hard surface flooring, these allergens are much easier to stir into the air and can cause symptoms to worsen.
Recommendation: For allergy friendly carpet, choose carpet that is certified by the Carpet and Rug Institute’s Green Label Plus to promote a healthy Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) and carpet that is mold and mildew resistant.
Pets
Pets can generate traffic in your Boston home just like people. They can add to natural wear and tear just living in the home. Sharp claws and dirty paws can create additional damage, and any accidents in the home may lead to serious stains and odors.
Recommendation: Your pet’s nails should be trimmed regularly, and accidents need to be treated immediately. Also consider placing rugs in high–traffic pet areas and using protective mats under food and water dishes or choosing dishes with a wide base to prevent spilling. It is best to avoid loop constructed carpets when you have pets. Their nails can snag on the loops and pull carpet fibers out which causes fraying.
Children
Carpet can be an ideal choice for Boston homes with children because of the cushioning, durability, and natural noise insulation it has over hard floor surfaces. Keep in mind that children are more likely to cause stains and contribute to daily wear and tear.
Recommendation: When buying carpet for a home with children, focus on stain–resistant, dense carpets that won’t show footprints or markings as easily. Area rugs throughout your home can provide added protection.
Special Mobility Needs
For people in your home who may require the use of a mobility aid, it is important to consider the firmness factors of the carpet padding, as well as pile height.
Recommendation: Look for carpeting with a lower pile height and firmer cushion; these considerations can provide additional stability for the use of walkers, canes, crutches, etc. Lower pile carpeting is also easier for wheelchair mobility.
All of these factors should have an impact on your flooring choices. Discuss your individual flooring needs with your Boston remodeling contractor.
Article Source: http://www.findanyfloor.com/BuyingGuides/CarpetBuyersGuide/CarpetBuyingGuideBasics.xhtml
If you are looking for a Boston interior remodeling then please call 508-934-6490 or complete our online request form.
The Feng Shui Way
Feng shui divides the world into five elements: wood, fire, earth, metal and water. If you have a room that doesn’t feel quite right, try balancing the elements to make it more comfortable. Each element invokes a different mood, creating a customized space that’s beneficial for your personality and goals. Here’s a look at each one and how to incorporate it into your Boston home, yard or office design:
1. Wood. Wood harnesses the power of creativity and expansion while representing traits such as growth, birth, strength, flexibility and intuition. Too much wood can make you feel overwhelmed, rigid, stubborn and inflexible, whereas too little can show up as a lack of creativity or depression, ambivalence and stagnancy.
When designing with the wood element, use shapes that mimic the vertical, column-like shape of tree trunks and the softness of leaves and flowers. Like the leaves and sky, wood’s colors are green and blue. Consider incorporating the following types of objects:
- fresh and silk flowers
- plants and trees
- cotton and other natural fabrics
- wood furniture
2. Fire. Increase enthusiasm and leadership skills by maximizing the fire element. Use this element in design to encourage expressiveness, inspiration and boldness. When there’s an overabundance of fire, it can show itself as anger, aggression, irritability and impulsive behavior, whereas too little can show up as emotional coldness, lack of vision, inexpressiveness and a lack of self-esteem.
To expand the fire element in your space, add:
- candles, incandescent lights and sunlight
- any shade of red, pink or purple
- electronic equipment
- animal prints
3. Earth. Earth affects physical strength and order while generating an overall feeling of grounding, balance and stability. When there’s an overabundance of earth in a space, people will often notice a heavy sensation and experience more boredom, sluggishness and seriousness. When there’s too little earth, people may feel disorganized, chaotic and unfocused.
To bring in the element, add:
- anything in earth tones (brown, green or sand)
- square and rectangular shapes
- low, flat surfaces
- images of landscapes
4. Metal. Metal affects mental clarity and logic. The presence of metal within a room can be felt in personal characteristics such as organization, focus, righteousness and analytical abilities. When surrounded with too much metal, you can be seen as chatty, overly critical and prone to speaking without thinking. When there’s too little metal, you may notice a feeling of quiet, cautiousness and lack of focus.
When enhancing a space with metal, add:
- round or oval shapes
- anything made of metals, including iron, aluminum, gold or silver
- rocks and stones
- white, gray, silver or light pastel colors
5. Water. Water’s domain encompasses spirituality and the emotions. A balance of water brings about inspiration, wisdom and insightfulness. Too much water can create the feeling of unbalanced transition and the sense that you’re drowning emotionally. It can make you feel overwhelmed and overly social. When there’s too little water, you may experience a lack of sympathy, loneliness, isolation, stress and pettiness.
When incorporating the water element, add:
- the color black or any deep, dark tones
- reflective surfaces, such as mirrors and gazing balls
- wavy, free-form or asymmetrical shapes
- water or water features, such as aquariums and fountains
Pulling It Together
Now that you understand the basic characteristics of each element, keep in mind one more thing: The objects in your Boston home very often have several elements reflected within each of them. For example, a red flowerpot full of white tulips would represent four of the five elements. The red pot represents fire, the clay pot itself is earth, the flowers represent wood and the white of the tulips are metal.
Begin playing with the arrangement of elements by starting small, with an entry table or a dresser in your bedroom. Add your red flowerpot of tulips and a few other items, such as a mirror for water and an arrangement of polished stones for metal.
To tackle an entire room, start by noticing and labeling all the objects within a space. If you find yourself using a specific room less than others or avoiding it altogether, the elemental balance may need some adjusting. Be on the lookout for rooms made up of only one or two elements. By adding in objects that represent those missing elements, you’ll be well on your way to creating a balanced and inviting room in your Boston home. These are simple principles that you can very easily apply yourself. If, however, you find that your home’s layout constricts the flow of energy, you might consider consulting your Boston remodeling contractor and discuss a remodeling project that will create space that allows energy to flow freely.
Article Source: http://www.hgtv.com/decorating-basics/the-elements-of-feng-shui/index.html
If you are looking for a Boston interior remodeling then please call 508-934-6490 or complete our online request form.
My Dog Ate My Carpet
When building a new home or remodeling an existing home, flooring choices are everything. With pets in your Boston home, this becomes even more important, because pets are just as hard, if not harder, than people on flooring surfaces. What are the best flooring choices for pets in the home? Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of several types of flooring to help in the decision making process. Consult your Boston remodeling contractor as well.
Hardwood Flooring
Though this is one of the most desired types of flooring in any Boston home, it is not the best choice for homes with pets. Pet urine can stain the hardwood, leaving a terrible smell and a dark spot in the wood. Even if urine accidents are cleaned up quickly after the fact, the urine may still seep into the wood, causing damage. To remove these stains, you may have to go so far as to strip, sand, and refinish the floor. If the stains are contained to one small area, this is hassle enough, but if the stains all over the place, the entire floor may need to be redone. At times, the odor and stain may reappear because of salt crystals left behind from the urine that cannot be dissolved. If this happens, completely replacing the wood may be necessary.
Another thing some Boston pet owners forget to factor in when it comes to hardwood is the pet’s water bowl. If possible, place the water bowl on a mat of some sort to help protect the hardwood from moisture when the bowl spills. Quickly dry the spill after it happens, because moisture can soak down into the wood causing it to swell and contract.
Keeping pets nails trimmed or filed will also be necessary to avoid extraneous scratches on the flooring. As pets walk or run across the floor, their claws may damage the surface. While some owners may elect to declaw their pets, it certainly isn’t a possibility for all.
If the flooring is coated with a high quality urethane, it will be more scratch and stain resistant. Sweep the floors clean at least once a week for best maintenance.
Bamboo is harder than the hardest hardwood flooring and is one of the best pet-friendly flooring choices.
Laminate Flooring
Due to the hardness of laminate flooring, pet owners may turn to it instead of traditional hardwood. While this may work to provide the décor people want, it can be difficult for pets, especially dogs, because they will slip and slide as they walk or run through the home. This will cause their hips to move in unnatural ways, which may cause costly damage to their bodies. This is pronounced in smooth, high gloss laminate floors and can be mitigated somewhat by choosing a laminate floor with an embossed or textured finish. Laminate won’t show scratches as easily as some other surfaces, but because they are so slippery and uncomfortable to lie on, rugs are recommended throughout the home to help the pet.
Bamboo Flooring
Bamboo is an excellent choice for homes with pets, for many different reasons. It’s harder than the hardest hardwoods, meaning it will stand up to more traffic. It won’t wear out, and it’s completely renewable, so it makes a good choice for those who are trying to be green. It is stain resistant, so people don’t have to worry about accidents or spills. Due to bamboo’s hardness it will save money compared to repairing other types of flooring. For those who are trying to decide between using hardwood and vinyl flooring, choosing bamboo floors is a great compromise.
Cork Flooring
Cork is a green flooring choice good for the environment and the health of the occupants, pets included. Cork is an antimicrobial type of flooring that will reduce the growth of mold and other allergens. Cork is scratch resistant, though it should be swept regularly to prevent scratching from particles of dirt left on the floor. It is an excellent sound absorption option, so as pets walk across the floor, it will not be as loud. While the flooring is water resistant, it is a natural product, so spills should be cleaned up promptly. Discoloration of this flooring will happen over time when exposed to sunlight.
Stone Tile Flooring
This type of flooring is amazing for Boston pet owners because it does not scratch easily, and scratches don’t show as they do in other types of flooring. When pets have accidents on the floor, there is much less reason to worry over how this will impact the condition of the flooring. With these two factors considered, this is a good choice for pet owners, but the floors are hard and cold so they are not very comfortable to lie on, unless the floor is heated by radiant heat. Consider using area rugs and pet beds to alleviate this problem. Granite is the hardest of the natural stones and is the best choice for scratch resistance. Softer stones such as marble, slate, and travertine may require somewhat more maintenance than granite, especially if they feature a polished finish.
While most people wouldn’t think vinyl to be a very pet friendly flooring choice, the new luxury vinyl flooring is an excellent choice, and it’s great for small children, too. The flooring is scratch and stain resistant, low in allergens, easy to clean and maintain, and even quiet to walk on.
Carpet
When it comes to pets, carpet is likely the worst flooring choice one can make, simply because it is easy to destroy. Even normal wear and tear on carpet in a pet-free home happens faster than with other flooring options. If carpet is the only choice because it is the most cost effective option for home flooring, the best thing to do is choose a carpet without loops as pet nails can snag on the loops and cause the carpet to wear faster.
While budget and ease of installation will be factors impacting the flooring decisions of a home, taking time to consider the best flooring options for pets beforehand may save money in repairs and frustration in the long run. Cutting corners on flooring to save money is not a good choice if the flooring needs to be replaced in a few months or even a year due to the wear and tear from the pets.
Article Source: http://learn.builddirect.com/flooring-info/animals/pets
If you are looking for a Boston interior remodeling then please call 508-934-6490 or complete our online request form.
Tile & Stone Care Tips From the Bigwigs at the NWFA
Your Boston remodeling contractor has finished installing your brand new kitchen flooring , and now you are left with the task of maintaining its beauty and luster. Here are some tips from the experts at the NWFA.
Sealed Marble and Tile:
The sealer can last for years with the proper care. Be sure to check the warranty on each sealing application.
1. Using a marble cleaner will help the sealer hold out staining, but not etching. The marble cleaner should have a PH of 7, which is neutral.
2. When spills occur, wipe them up quickly. Do not allow them to sit for an extended period of time. *Most foods, fruits, vegetables, soft drinks and juices can eat through the sealer and cause staining.
3. Use a cleaner that contains a sealer. (Some cleaners now have 1-3% sealer in them.) A regular marble and granite stone cleaner will help keep your Boston countertop protected and keep its beauty for years.
4. CAUTION: Be careful of stone soaps. These are good for limestone floors, but not countertops. Too much soap can build up over time.
5. WARNING: Never buy a product that says “and good for marble too”!
*There are some sealers that are not affected by acids, but they are much more expensive to the Boston customer. There is no sealer on the market that is 100% stain proof, so even the best sealer can stain after an extended period of time.
Tile Floors:
1. The biggest problem with most flooring is the way it is cleaned. Most TV commercials show a flat mop, but these mops clean the top of the tile and then drop the dirt into the grout. Using too much soap can also make the floor harder to keep clean.
2. Sealed floors need a marble neutral cleaner. This is a mix of 2 to 5 ounces of product to 1 gallon of water. Warm water is better than cold when cleaning ground in dirt or grease.
3. Avoid store bought cleaning chemicals! Most of these cleaners are a base (alkaline) or an acid. Both will strip the sealer and cause the tile and grout to become harder to keep clean. Harsh cleaning chemicals can also discolor the grout. Most bathroom cleaners will also etch the polish of the marble and limestone finishes
Ongoing Care & Maintenance Tips:
1. Daily or regular dry dust mopping or vacuuming with a soft brush is critical for keeping dust, grit, sand and dirt from scratching polished or unpolished stone.
2. Make sure sufficient walk off mats are utilized in the entry and exit areas of the floors. This is the most effective way of protecting the polish of the stone surfaces, especially the softer ones.
Article Source: http://blog.surfaces.com/index.php/category/installation/
If you are looking for a kitchen remodeling in Boston then please call 508-934-6490 or complete our online request form.
Stainless Steel at Your Service
About Stainless Steel Sinks
Stainless steel sinks aren’t “perfect”; no material is perfect for all conditions/situations. We are not aware of any material that is more durable and more “ideal” for sinks than quality stainless steel.
Stainless steel sinks are made from nickel bearing stainless steel. The mellow satin surface is compatible with any décor and color scheme. It is timeless and elegant, and like fine silver, its beautiful finish becomes lovelier with use and age. A quality stainless steel sink, with proper care and maintenance, will give you a lifetime of service.
Why Stainless Steel is “Stainless When the chromium in the stainless steel is exposed to oxygen an invisible layer of chromium oxide (Cr2O3) is formed. This layer is impervious to water and air giving the stainless steel exceptional corrosion resistant properties.
6 Reasons Why We Like Stainless Steel Sinks
- Tough – Stainless steel is more durable than porcelain and cast iron, and more forgiving than composites. Stainless steel sinks won’t chip, nick or crack. Thin stainless sinks can get dented, but “cheap” sinks of any other materials tend to have less life (longevity) than a “cheap” stainless steel sink.
- Luster – Stainless steel will not rust, stain or fade, and the finish resists scratches. It keeps its luster longer while other materials will show their age.
- Absorbs Shock – Stainless steel sinks on impact will “give” to cushion glasses and dishes against breakage.
- Easier to Clean – Stainless steel retains its luster when cleaned with household cleanser and a soft towel. Healthcare facilities trust stainless steel sinks due in part to their sanitary surface.
- Greater Capacity – Stainless steel has strength and flexibility that allows for deeper sink bowls. It has more overall usable space than porcelain or cast iron.
- Compliments Any Décor – Stainless steel sinks have clean lines and a cool texture that reflect surrounding colors and patterns. Also, it compliments any décor long after trendy colors are out-of-style.
Chlorides Today, chlorides are found in most soap, detergents, bleaches and cleansers; chlorides can be aggressive to stainless steel. However, chlorides are very water-soluble. Therefore, thorough rinsing of your sink after each use to remove any chloride residue and a weekly scouring is all that is required to keep your sink looking bright and shiny.
Scratches Like many metallic surfaces, your stainless steel sink will scratch. These are merely usage scratches and over time will blend into the overall finish of your sink.
Water Quality The quality of your Plano water can affect your sink’s appearance. If your water has high iron content, a brown surface stain can form on the sink giving the appearance of rust. Additionally, in areas with a high concentration of minerals, or with over-softened water, a white film may develop on the sink. To combat these problems, we suggest that the sink be towel dried after use, and again, on a weekly basis, the sink should be cleaned.
Food Heavy salt concentration or foods containing high levels of salt should not be allowed to dry on the sink surface. Rinse your sink thoroughly after use.
Cutting Your sink is designed to serve as many things, but should not be used as a cutting board or chopping block. This type of use will lead to deep scratches in the sink finish and will dull your knives.
Routine Care
- Most dirt & stains: Use soapy water or ammonia-based cleaner.
- Watermarks: Wipe with damp cloth then towel dry.
- Disinfecting: Occasionally wipe surface with diluted household bleach (1 part water /1 part bleach).
- Maintenance: Occasionally clean by filling the sink one-quarter full with a 50/50 water/bleach solution. Let soak for 15 minutes, then wash sides and bottom as solution drains and thoroughly rinse.
Precautions
- Do… It is best to rinse sinks thoroughly after each use. Thorough rinsing can be done by running the water for a few minutes and rubbing the cleaned area with a sponge.
- Do… Avoid exposing sink to strong chemicals, such as paint removers, oven cleaners, etc. If contact occurs, quickly flush the surface with water.
- Do… Run cold water when pouring boiling water into sinks to try to minimize temperature shock. With stainless it isn’t as important to remember that compared to other materials though.
- Do… Towel dry after each use to prevent mineral deposits from building up on the surface of the sink (although with a good quality stainless sink you can buff it back to the original “new” finish even after many years of scale and mineral build-up.
- Do… Scour the sink once a week, being sure to rub in the direction of the satin finish lines (best not to purchase a “mirror” finish).
- Do… Remove nail polish with a non-acetone based nail polish remover and flush with water.
- Don’t… Allow food or beverage residue, metal canned products, or mild steel or cast iron cookware to remain on sink surface for long periods of time as this can result in permanent staining of the sink.
- Don’t… Cut directly on sink surfaces.
- Don’t… Set hot pans directly into sinks.
- Don’t… Scour the sink across the satin finish lines. Scouring across the satin finish lines can damage the original sink finish.
- Don’t… Allow liquid soap or other household cleansers to dry on the surface of the sink. Most brands contain chemical additives, which will affect the finish.
- Don’t… Use drain cleaning products that contain sulfuric or hydrochloric acid.
- Don’t… Leave standing solutions of chlorine bleach and water in the sink for extended periods of time. Chlorides, which are found in most soaps, detergents, bleaches, and cleansers, are very aggressive to stainless steel. If left on the sink too long they can cause surface pitting.
- Don’t… Use a steel wool pad to clean your sink. Steel wool pads have a tendency to break apart and small particles of steel can become embedded in the surface of the sink. The steel particles will rust and will give the appearance that the sink itself is rusting.
- Don’t… Use rubber mats or dishpans in the sink to protect the finish. Leaving rubber mats or dishpans in the sink can lead to surface rust or possible pitting. Instead use stainless steel bottom grids. If you do use mats or dishpans please remove them after each use.
- Don’t… Leave wet sponges, cloths, or cleaning pads on the sink. This can lead to surface rust.
If you’re ready to replace your current sink or are starting from scratch with a whole kitchen remodel, contact your Boston remodeling contractor to learn more about what type sink and fixtures best suit your family’s needs.
Article Source: http://www.plumbingproducts.com/stainless-steel-sink-care.html
If you are looking for a kitchen remodeling in Boston then please call 508-934-6490 or complete our online request form.
Sorry – This Toilet Doesn’t Do Windows
Even though you can’t buy the Hang Fung gold toilet for your master bath, there are plenty of other fancy fixtures available to accent your Boston bathroom. But you’re going to have to shell out big bucks for them.
The Neorest 600 certainly falls into this category. The Neorest takes the cake as the most expensive commode available for purchase in the home. Produced by bathroom fixture manufacturer Toto, the Neorest 600 is a tankless, one-piece toilet. It may not be gold, but you could call it green: It’s a low-flow toilet, conserving water by sending only 1.6 gallons down the drain per flush. But you’ll be too busy sitting in awe of the Neorest to yearn for the water-frivolous days of the full-flow toilet. It’s also a bathroom dynamo, doing all of the work your old toilet used to make you do.
When the Neorest senses your approach, the toilet lifts its lid, inviting you to have a seat. Once you do your thing, a gentle blast of warm water cleans your bottom. This is followed by the toilet’s air-dry function. And after you get up, the toilet flushes the ionized, self-cleaning bowl and deodorizes the air [source: Toto]. With all of these features, maybe the $5,800 retail price for the Neorest 600 isn’t so much, relatively speaking [source: Forbes]. Plus, you can find them for sale as low as $3,159 [source: Buy Plumbing]. Of course, you can get a regular residential toilet in the U.S. and Canada for around $150, but these certainly don’t come with the bells and whistles the Neorest offers.
If you’re going to remodel your Boston bathroom, why not go all the way? Talk to your Boston remodeling contractor about some gold leaf inlay in the counter’s backsplash? And what about Italian marble tile for the bathroom’s floor?
Be sure to install the big fixtures first. There’s the Idrolux “L” shower, which retails for around $24,000. This freestanding shower includes UV panels, designed to give you a healthy, tanned glow while you bathe [source: Idrolux]. If you don’t like standing when you scrub down, you can opt to rest easy in 21 inches of warm water in Kohler’s Kallista Archeo bathtub. Before you sink into the tub, check the price tag: This freestanding copper bathtub goes for more than $66,000 [source: Forbes].
How about a nice sink, too? The Italbrass Mezz’aria dual basin sink might look nice reflecting the blue UV glow of your tanning shower — the wall-mounted floating sink is stainless steel. The nearly $7,500 price tag doesn’t include the complementary mirror to go above it, but you’ll want a mirror from another company anyway [source: Quality Bath]. Seura offers wall-mounted, over-the-sink mirrors as large as 45 inches wide that feature an LCD television embedded inside. You can get ready and watch the news at the same time. When turned off, the TV disappears, and the fixture looks like a normal mirror [source: Seura]. The mirrors and their frames can be customized per order, and they fetch around $5,000 for the 45-inch model [source: Home Annex].
Still, starting your day off in your Boston bathroom with all of these luxury features would probably put a pretty good spin on things. And who can put a price on that feeling?
Article Source: http://home.howstuffworks.com/most-expensive-toilet-in-world1.htm
If you are looking for a bathroom remodeling in Boston then please call 508-934-6490 or complete our online request form.
Home Sweet…Cave?
As a child, you may have dreamed of how it would feel to live in a tree house or a fort that you and your friends created in the woods. Many architects and designers love a challenge: They enjoy taking unconventional dwellings and turning them into places of residence. Some families forgo the idea of a traditional home with a picket fence and choose instead to live in a cave, church, water tower or bunker. Of course most of us are happy in our traditional Boston homes, wishing only to enhance our existing living space. A kitchen remodel, room addition or basement finishingcan be easily achieved with the help of your Boston remodeling contractor.
-
Church Homes
-
A few people have taken on the challenge of converting old church sanctuaries into their places of residence. For example, ZECC Architects converted an old Dutch chapel into a single family residence. Christopher Wren’s Christ Church was severely damaged during WWII; the roof of the church was destroyed, but the 11-story tower was left untouched. The church is now in private hands, and architect Nicholas Boyarsky converted the roofless church into a flower garden. He transformed the 11-story tower into an apartment with a wood spiral staircase.
Cave Homes
-
Since the beginning of time, caves have offered refuge to nomads and travelers, and even today some people choose to live in caves and still have the modern conveniences of technology. In 2010, according to an article in The New York Times, one family set up their entire home inside a cave; they use umbrellas and interior roofs to keep the kitchen sand-free. Besides the cave-like walls, their kitchen looks like any other, with counter space, sink, appliances and cabinetry.
Water Tower Homes
-
A water tower home is a modern-day version of living in a tree house that attracts some home-owners, as they like the idea of “living with a view.” In addition, building your home in a water tower provides an opportunity to recycle old buildings. Jo Crepain of Antwerp wanted to preserve an old water tower near a park where he played as a child, so he bought the tower, and along with the help of another architect, he made his home in it. Other examples include a water tower in Essen, Germany, which was converted into a fully operational apartment and commercial property. This water tower houses two apartments, a telecommunications company and a real estate agency.
Bunker Homes
-
Many World War II bunkers in various parts of the world are now residential housing; the owners of these fortified residences say that one of the biggest advantages of living in a bunker is the special temperatures maintained throughout the year. In the summer, it is cooler inside, and in the winter, it’s much warmer than outdoors. One architect decided to build his house on top of an old bunker, so he uses the actual bunker for storage and for protection from natural disasters.
-
Article Source: http://www.ehow.com/info_8518248_extremely-weird-places-live.html
If you are looking for a Boston basement finishing then please call 508-934-6490 or complete our online request form.
