When you are remodelling a room, one of the big challenges is deciding which window treatments will suit it best. There are a huge number of options out there but the first question you need to answer is whether you would prefer blinds or curtains.

The answer will depend a lot upon the purpose of the room. For example your living room will probably benefit most from curtains as they will give it a softer and warmer atmosphere. In contrast your kitchen will probably do better with wooden Venetian blinds as they will give you a lot of light and space as well as being less vulnerable to moisture and mould.  To help make the decision easier I’ve composed a list of the pros and cons of the different types of window treatment below.
Having said that if you choose blinds that will add another layer of complication as there is a large variety of styles and materials. Slatted blinds such as Venetian and vertical blinds are typically composed of overlapping slats made of plastic, aluminium or wood. Venetian and mini blinds are made of horizontal slats whereas vertical blinds (as the name suggests) are made of vertical slats thought vertical blinds rarely seen within the home.

Roller Blinds do largely what they say. They are made out of a fabric sheet that rolls up out the way when not in use. They are great for bedrooms in urban areas as they can be made out of blackout fabric ensuring that external lights don’t disturb your sleep. Roman blinds look similar to roller blinds but are either made of tightly woven slats or contain slats within the fabric meaning that they fold up rather than roll.

Slatted Blinds (Venetian and Vertical blinds)

Pros:

• Slatted blinds stack when drawn, ensuring that they take up less space.
• They offer the greatest degree of control over external light.
• They will fit in with a wide variety of different colour schemes without much work.

Cons:

• They require frequent cleaning and dusting.
• The slatted design allows light to get through even when fully closed.
• They don’t retain heat very well.
• The individual slats and the lift cords can break very easily.

Roman and Roller Blinds

Pros:

• Can be used to block all light.
• They take up the least amount of space.
• They don’t require regular cleaning.

Cons:

• Difficult to clean unless the fabric is coated with wipe down surface.

Curtains: Curtains can frame the window to create a striking and sophisticated effect as well as drawing attention to the view. The Fabrics they are made of come in a variety of thicknesses, from see through net curtains which offer little more than decoration to heavy drapes.

Pros:

• Curtains are aesthetically striking and can give the room an air of sophistication.
• In winter curtains provide the best insulation.
• They come in a wide range of colours and patterns.

Cons:

• Curtains take up more space than blinds.
• In rooms like bathrooms and kitchens there is a risk of mould and staining due to the moisture in the air.
• Kids can hide behind large curtains.

I hope this guide helps anyone trying to redecorate choose their window treatments. Done well both blinds and curtains can add a lot to a room.

Author Bio
This is a guest post by Daniel Frank a UK blogger writing on behalf of wooden Venetian blind specialist wooden blinds direct

If you have any elderly or disabled living with you or are regularly visited by someone who is, then making your home easily accessible will make their life safer and easier. Whilst accessibility might seem to only be an issue for people suffering serious disabilities, you will be surprised at how much of a difference it can make. For example I’m sure many families have struggled with getting a pram or furniture through a narrow doorway fronted with steps.

Simple Steps to Improve Acccessibility
There are a number of trip hazards that you may not notice or be aware off. In particular throw rugs which can catch or slip under people. They can be simply taped down to prevent slippage but still be easily moved for cleaning. This step is particularly important if you have anyone with a walker or a wheelchair which can easily be caught by a rug.

If you use chairs with arms then it will make it easier for people with less strength to get in and out of them. They are also safer as they allow people to lower themselves onto them if necessary. Similarly placing cushions on low chairs will provide a simple and effective step for making them easier to get in and out of.

In the kitchen you can buy large handled grips for tableware will help make life easier, particularly for people with arthritis or other conditions which can reduce the strength of their grip. Similarly double handled pots and pans can be lifted without placing as much stress on the wrist joints as single handed pots. The not only means they are easier to lift but reduces the chance of spillages.

Replacing door knobs and tap handles with longer handles makes turning them easier. (Who hasn’t struggled with a stiff tap?) Similarly large handles which allow you to insert several fingers on drawers are easier than knobs or ones which only insert a small number.

Some more complex steps
You can make your bathroom safer by placing non slip tape and grab bars near the toilet and shower to help prevent slippage. In addition walk in baths and hand held showerheads make bathing far easier for people with disabilities.

For more serious mobility problems a reconditioned stairlift will provide an affordable option if you or people you live with find it hard to climb the stairs, and is safer than getting a second hand stairlift.

Wheelchair ramps come in many forms depending upon what you can afford, but an aluminium portable ramp should not only make accessing the home easier for people in wheelchairs but also help other people who might find the steps hard to manage such a people using walkers. In general it’s recommended that ramps have a slope which rises 12 inches for every foot.

The costs don’t need be prohibitive despite the initial set up. There are a variety of organizations such as The Association of Assistive Technology Act Programs which offer grants so as to allow people with disabilities to afford technology to allow them to do tasks that would otherwise be difficult or impossible.

Author Bio
This is a guest post by Daniel Frank, a UK blogger who is interested in disability issues. He is currently writing on behalf of Stannah Stairlifts who provide a range of products including reconditioned stairlifts

Signs of a Good Year

Home Improvement projects often show up high on homeowner’s list of New Year’s resolutions.  But without proper planning it’s easy to spend too much or hire a disreputable contractor.  Then the home improvement project that should bring you joy turns into a home improvement nightmare.

Here’s a list of five New Year’s resolutions that will help bring you peace and joy in the New Year:

1. I will do my research online weather I am hiring a home improvement contractor or doing it myself.

2. I will not pick the first home improvement contractor that shows up in a Google search or has the best looking website.

3. I will ask for and check at least three references.

4. I will check with the local contractor’s board or licensing agency to see if there are any complaints against the home improvement contractor AND see how it was resolved.

5. I won’t make a decision until I have attended my local home and garden show and met the home improvement contractor I am going to hire. Here is a list of the best home and garden shows in North America: http://www.hgsei.com/

Help! I Have a Plumbing Emergency.

If you stumbled across this page because you are frantically looking for information while water is gushing into your home, there is one thing you should do before proceeding. Turn off the water!

Plumbing contractor under the sink

If you can, turn off the water directly to the offending fixture. Most toilets and sinks and even water heaters and some wash machines have a valve near where the plumbing comes through the floor that allows you to turn off the water to that fixture. If the leak is in the floor or main pipe, you’ll need to turn off the water to the entire house. Some homes have a whole-house water shut-off valve inside the house, which makes turning the water off and on easy and accessible.

If you don’t have a whole-house water shut-off valve, or the leak has occurred before the valve, you’ll need to shut off the water at the street. Most houses have a meter box sunk into the ground near the street with a rectangular metal cover. Inside this box will be the water meter and a shut-off valve—you will need a wrench to turn it.

Whew! Now that the water is off, you can focus on finding a plumbing service to fix the problem.

Finding the Right Plumber for Your Repair Job

There are plumbers that specialize in repairs and plumbers that specialize in new construction and large remodeling jobs. First let’s talk about hiring a plumber for a plumbing repair.

Though you may need to speed up the process in an emergency, there are a few steps you should take when choosing a plumber regardless of the situation. First, seek out recommendations. Friends who have recently hired a plumber, local real estate agents, and even local hardware or home improvement stores can be good sources of referrals.

Once you have a list of 3-5 plumbing companies, make some phone calls. Here are some basic questions to ask each company:
• Are you licensed/certified? Most states require this.
• Are you insured (worker’s compensation and liability)?
• Can you provide references (even in an emergency, when you might not have time to call a reference, a company’s reaction to this question can tell you something about them)?
• How long have you been in business? Quality companies have staying power.
• What guarantees/warranties do they offer on their work?

Once you’ve covered the basics, explain your plumbing problem. Ask about their pricing and billing. Each company may structure their bills slightly differently, so you need to understand what you’ll be charged for ahead of time.

Now you’ve probably figured out which company you’re leaning toward. Before you call back though, do a little background checking. If possible, contact the state licensing board, to make sure no complaints have been logged against the company. Contact the Better Business Bureau for the same reason. Also do a search online using the company’s name and “review” to see if there are any comments about them, good or bad, that might assist you as you make a choice.

Steps for Selecting a Plumbing Contractor

Maybe you don’t have an emergency or even need repairs. You need a plumber to add that new Jacuzzi tub to your bathroom, or maybe you’re putting an addition on your house. You’ll need to seek out a plumbing company that specializes in new construction and/or remodels.

Though you presumably have more time than the poor soul with water dripping from a broken pipe, the steps you’ll begin with are the same as those listed above. Get recommendations from friends and local businesses. Another good source of recommendations for a plumber for new construction and remodels are local contractors. When you contact the companies to ask about their licensing, insurance, warranties, and references, also ask about their bidding process. Make sure you won’t be charged for the company to do a bid for you.

When you do your follow-up research, contact the references provided in addition to looking for reviews and calling state licensing boards and the BBB. New construction or remodeling is a big commitment—make sure you hire someone with a good work history.
After you have received bids from 3-5 companies, look them over carefully. It is generally recommended that you throw out bids that seem unusually low or high. High bids are often submitted by contractors who have a full schedule. Low bids can indicate inexperience or can cover up hidden costs that will surprise you later. Each bid will be different and each plumber will have different recommendations regarding parts and procedures. Listen to them and decide which one seems the best fit for you.

Once you’ve selected a contractor, make sure you have agreed to everything in writing ahead of time, including completion dates, materials, permits, and inspections. Be prepared to check in to make sure everything is going to the agreed plan, especially when it comes to permits and inspections, throughout the process. Then kick back and enjoy that new Jacuzzi!

An accessible bathroom design can make life much easier for some people. The classic bathroom layout creates barriers for many people, especially those who are disabled, ill, injured, elderly, or very young. The goal of universal design is to make the bathroom usable by anyone. Even if no one in your family currently requires special accommodations, it makes sense to design your new bathroom so it will meet both the current and future needs of everyone in the household.

Accessible bathroom by Universal Design Renovations

Some features you may want to include:

■ An anti-scald thermostat valve, which maintains the shower water at a constant temperature.
■ Single-lever, wing-blade, or motion-sensing faucets for people who have limited hand strength or who need a free hand to lean on a walker or cane.
■ Grab bars for people who are unsteady on their feet. If you decide that grab bars are not necessary now, place plywood or wood-blocking reinforcement in the walls during construction so bars can be installed later. Also reinforce towel bars, soap dishes, and any other protrusions that might be used to break a fall; they should be fastened securely enough to hold at least 250 pounds.
■ A mirror that extends down to the backsplash so that children and seated adults can see it when using the sink.
■ An adjustable shower-head for people of different heights. A handheld showerhead is convenient for cleaning young children and makes it possible to avoid wetting a bandage, cast, hairdo, or anything else that should remain dry.
■ Pocket doors instead of hinged ones. They s space, and they’re easier for someone in a wheelchair to open. If you install hinged doors, make sure they swing out rather than into the room.
■ Shatterproof materials and slip-resistant flooring if someone in a wheelchair will be using the bathroom regularly, create a barrier-free space using acc design principles. Accessible design conforms to standards established by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which prescribes specific heights, clearances, and room dimensions to accommodate people in wheelchairs. Openings and doorways must be at least 32 inches wide, and inside the room there should be a clear area at least 5 feet in diameter. The shower should be curbless, and the toilet 18 inches high with extended flush handles. The sink must have enough legroom below it for a seated person, and pipes below the sink should be insulated to prevent burns. Handles, l switches, and regularly used storage areas should be no higher than 48 inches from the floor. You’ll need more floor space for an accessible-design bath than you would for a conventional one.

Once you have chosen features and fixtures, think carefully about their placement. Layout dramatically affects how well the accessible bathroom will work.

To develop a floor plan, it helps to have a scale drawing of the space. Include the length of each wall and the distance between doorways and windows. If you are remodeling, show existing fixtures, electrical outlets, and plumbing. Then make scale cutouts of fixtures and cabinets. By moving the cut outs around on this base map, you can visualize different possibilities. Try to use an attractive feature such a graceful tub or vanity as a design centerpiece positioned so that it’s the first thing you’ll notice upon entering the room. If you have only a few options for arranging the fixtures, place the largest feature first and then the smaller ones.

When placing the tub or shower, allow plenty of space for bathers to get in and out for the door to swing open. The long dimension of the tub should be set perpendicular to the floor joists (for blocking and floor framing modifications should be made to support it properly). Put the sink in a spot that’s easily accessible but out of the traffic pattern. For privacy, place the toilet in the least visible position…preferably on the same wall as the door so that it won’t become a focal point. Don’t forget storage areas such as closets, built-in shelving, or niches.

Building codes in your area may specify heights and clearances for fixtures. Even if there are a few legal requirements, leave enough room at the front and sides of each fixture for easy access and cleaning. You’ll need at least 30 inches in front of the sink, 36 inches between double sinks, and 30 inches in front of a bathtub or stall shower. The toilet requires a space a measuring at least 30 inches wide with a 36 inches’ clearance in front of the bowl (about 5 feet overall from the wall). Be aware that if a window is placed near a shower or tub, codes may require it be glazed with safety glass.

Remember that relocating plumbing is expensive. If cost is a major concern, try to come up with a floor plan that uses your present plumbing locations. If you are building an addition, you can save money by placing all of the plumbing along one wall.

Most homeowners agree that a neutral scheme is the practical place to begin decorating a bathroom. But today’s bathrooms have style and personality. Even if your starting point is with white or off-white fixtures and flooring, you can put a lot of pizzazz into the bathroom with details that are easy and relatively inexpensive to modify as time goes by and fashions change.

Bathrooms should not be boring!

Favorite decorating themes or looks that you’ve incorporated into other rooms in the house can be carried over into the bath, if you like, using color, pattern, texture, and finishing materials that unify the overall decor.

Wallpaper, paint, and fabric in the bathroom
While you’re thinking about color for the new bathroom, consider the type of paint, wallpaper, and fabric to use. Remember, bathrooms have lots of glossy surfaces, which reflect light. Unless you want an intense effect, opt for low – luster paints and Matt finishes. If you are concerned about moisture, especially in a room without a duct vent, shop for products that have been treated with mildewcide in the manufacturing process. Moist areas are perfect breeding grounds for mold. When moisture seeps behind wallpaper it creates a moldy, peeling mess. Luckily, this is a problem that can be avoided because you’ll find that there is a widely available selection of products and glues that are designed specifically for bathroom applications.

After you settled on a color scheme, you can look for wallpaper and fabrics to carry your theme through. Use them, later, to pick up a solid color for accents or trim. Two major factors in deciding the patterns to choose are the location and size of the room. Review the site lines from outside of the bathroom. Look at the adjoining areas, especially the ones that you must pass through to get to the bathroom. Think of them sequentially. Ideally, you should create an interrelationship between all the patterns and colors that run from room to room. If you want stripes in the bath but the adjoining hallway has a floral wallpaper, match the colors. In a small bathroom, as a rule, a bold print may be too busy. On the other hand, it may be just what is needed to make a large space feel cozier. Vertical designs will add height to a room. Conversely, horizontal motifs will draw the eye around it. In general, patterned wallpaper looks best in a traditionally – style bathroom. In a contemporary setting, subtle patterns that don’t detract from the architecture and the materials are best. And always avoid trendy looks, unless you want to make changes every couple of years.

Lastly, texture is a way to bring visual interest to the bathroom. Some paints and papers, come with a textured finish, or you can create your own illusion of one with special techniques, such as sponging, ragging, graining, and combing. Simple do – it – yourself kits are inexpensive and available at home centers, hardware stores, and craft shops. If you’re not in the painting mood, there are wallpaper patterns that are printed to look like these effects.

By the year 2030 there will be 70 million baby boomers over the age of 65, more than all age groups put together.

It’s the primary driver behind Congress’ struggle to reinvent health insurance. But closer to home, families we all know are quietly seeking solutions from what is being called the Aging-In-Place Initiative.

Aging in Place can best be described as home redesign for the elderly and the people who care for them. And it’s a design movement that’s gaining traction because of the current stressed economic conditions.

Most of our grandparents grew up living with a grandparent–and they didn’t question the tradition. But our generation has always had assisted care facilities and nursing homes to take care of our elderly loved ones while we went off to work and cared for our offspring. The 90′s term “sandwhich generation” describes the phenomenon that many baby boomers are all too familiar with: our kids are not yet out of the house, but now mom and dad want to move in with us, too.

Aging in Place is a fast-growing trend, and like all trends, entire industries are springing up to accommodate this niche. For example, the NAHB Research Center has an entire room-by-room checklist of modifications homeowners should incorporate when creating a comfortable space for an older person. First, there’s such a demand on senior living spaces, especially those with dementia-related illnesses. Alzheimer’s facilities, for example, are building long waiting lists because the illness now affects and kills those as young as those in their 40′s, 50′s and 60′s.

Here are just a few of their Aging in Place suggestions for the bathroom:

• Contrasting color edge border at countertops
• At least one wheelchair maneuverable bath on main level with 60-inch turning radius or acceptable T-turn space and 36″ x 36″ or 30″ x 48″ clear space
• Bracing in walls around tub, shower, shower seat and toilet for installation of grab bars to support 250 – 300 pounds
• Fold down seat in the shower
• Walk-in tub or shower
• Adjustable/ handheld showerheads, 6′ hose
• Tub/Shower controls offset from center
• Shower stall with built-in antibacterial protection
• Light in shower stall
• Toilet 2 ½” higher than standard toilet (17″ – 19″) or height-adjustable
• Design of the toilet paper holder allows rolls to be changed with one hand
• Wall-hung sink with knee space and panel to protect user from pipes
• Slip-resistant flooring in bathroom and shower

Myra Katz, a long-time interior designer who used to apply her talent to bank interiors, is now certified to offer Aging in Place design services in St. Louis, MO. This year she launched Alzheimer’s & Dementia Home Solutions in response to changes in the economy and the growing demand for health care applications at home. It was a natural fit.

“Aging in Place design is not design as we think of it,” she said. “Instead, we apply our health care and senior living design experience to the residences of patients with dementia-related illnesses, allowing them to be safer and more independent in the supportive environment of their own home for as long as possible.”

Myra said focusing her new business on aging in place design is like coming full circle for her. Her father was a builder of multi-family developments in St. Louis County, and he felt strongly that the elderly should never feel displaced. So even before there were senior living communities, his properties were designed so seniors could live as independently as possible.

“There were always party rooms and guest apartments for visiting family members, Myra said. “One high-rise property even had a restaurant on site and has since been converted to an upscale senior living facility. We always had grandparents living with us when I was growing up, as did many of my friends.

“Designing healthcare and senior living facilities, along with starting Alzheimer’s & Dementia Home Solutions, is my way of making a difference. It’s like a calling.”

Myra believes it’s important to stay a step ahead of Alzheimer’s Disease, so as the condition progresses, design companies like Alzheimer’s & Dementia Home Solutions are able to address the new needs and suggest additional solutions to lengthen the older person’s golden years at home. For example, falls are the number one cause of death for seniors, Myra said, so caregivers must also pay attention to safety as it pertains to:

• Memory Impairment
• Mental & Visual Perception
• ADL (Activities of Daily Living)
• Incontinence
• Loss of Motor Skills
• Wandering

Myra’s recommendations can range from the simplest safety and security devices, lighting and finish changes to addressing accessibility issues or preparing drawings for a first floor room addition.

November is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. In preparation for the largest number of seniors ever, an Aging-In-Place Initiative is expanding in cities across the country with plans for communities to become more “senior friendly.” For more information, check out the National Aging in Place Council and the Aging-In-Place Design Checklists from NAHB’s Toolbase Services.

Originally posted 2009-10-16 09:00:01. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Regardless of our budget, or the scope of our project, remodeling is an activity that requires time, patience, and money. Like anything worth time and effort, remodeling a bathroom should be a complex process. However, many of us homeowners take on a new DIY approach that may prove successful with the right guidance. First of all, we must establish our need, therefore we need to answer this next question “What is the main reason for remodeling my bathroom?” The answers may vary from house to house, some might want to update the design and style of our bathroom, or add a degree of luxury for our guests, or it might even be because we just love remodeling. It’s important to get a clear idea of what we want, should we work only on design aspects? Should we add more functionality? Or should we generate more space? These answers will depend on the structure of the bathroom you want to remodel.

Usually, it is best to start with a main idea of what you want, then you can mold it into a decent remodeling plan. Usually the best part comes when you need to select your new bathroom fixtures, even if its only a new showerhead or a sink, the options are almost unlimited, and usually some companies offer to customize your products as you want. You must always remember to try and keep your new design in some accordance to your house theme; if you have a more traditional, Victorian home, then you would not want an ultra modern, minimalist design for your bathroom. Remember also that your bathroom is one of the most intimate spaces in your house, you should aim to create a nice balance between comfort and design.

The single most important element in your bathroom is your bath vanity; it comes in all shapes, colors, sizes, styles and prices. The decorating options are endless, and usually many people like to share what they do with their new vanities on the internet or in magazines. However, you must not forget that the main function of a vanity is to hold your sink, while being able to keep your towels or other personal belongings on the surface or stored within. Vanities with mirrors are also important, but not as important as lighting. Your choice of lighting will either make your vanity stand out, or remain unnoticed. With today’s many DIY lighting projects and products available, it is up to you to do whatever you feel like is the correct lighting for your bathroom. It is widely acknowledged that more lightning is preferred in bathrooms so that they give the impression of cleanliness and neatness.

So there you go, some simple tips that may just make your bathroom remodeling project a little bit less stressful and enjoyable!

Home improvement loans are borrowed funds used to repair, update, or remodel your house or property. Home improvement loans can take different forms—a home equity loan or line of credit is based on the equity you have earned on your home. Personal loans or personal lines of credit can also be secured specifically for home improvements. These loans, however, do not require you to tap into your home’s equity. Home improvement loans are not used for new construction, but rather for work on an existing structure.

What Kinds of Projects Can Be Funded With a Home Improvement Loan?

Home improvement projects generally fall into one of three categories: maintenance, updates, or remodels. Maintenance projects are undertaken to maintain already existing aspects of your home. Examples might be repairing or replacing a roof, repainting, or fixing a water leak and related damage. Home improvement loans are also used to update systems or rooms in your home. Perhaps your furnace has gone kaput or your plumbing is outdated. Or maybe your kitchen needs to lose that 70s look! Update projects might include replacement windows, new heating or cooling systems, new cabinets and appliances in the kitchen or new fixtures in the bathroom. Remodeling projects are often the most extensive and expensive of all home improvement projects. These might range from changing the interior walls of your home to adding square footage in the form of new rooms or even a conservatory.

What is the best use of your home improvement dollar?

Ultimately, each home owner must decide for him- or herself what will bring the most value for the money. If you are planning to remain in your home long-term, home improvement funds are best spent on the projects that will bring the most comfort and enjoyment to you as the homeowner. However, if you are looking to increase the value of your home with a future sale in mind, adding square footage, updating kitchens and/or bathrooms, or improving curb appeal are the most recommended uses of home improvement funds.

Getting a Home Improvement Loan, Step-by-Step

Each situation, even different lenders, will require a slightly different arrangement of these steps, but the basic process will be as follows:

1. How much do you need? Take the time to assess the work you’d like to have done on your home. Contact contractors in your area and get project estimates. If you’re doing the work yourself, make a list of materials and estimate your costs. Be sure to figure contingency funds into your budget—these are funds to cover unexpected costs. For a simple project, 5% should be sufficient, but for more complex projects, up to 20% is recommended.
2. Gather your paperwork. No matter what lender you end up using, they will all require documentation. Typically you will need the following: proof of income sources; proof of employment, if applicable; tax returns from the last couple years; credit history; and documents to establish your debt-to-income ratio.
3. While you’re at it, check your credit reports. You don’t need any nasty surprises while you’re sitting there waiting to sign papers. Be proactive and check your credit reports first. That way, if there is an error you can take care of it prior to making your loan application.
4. Do your homework. There are all kinds of lenders out there—most reputable, but some not. Shop around and make sure a potential lender is legitimate. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Don’t be embarrassed to take extra time to read the fine print—check it with a trusted professional if something seems fishy. Better to appear a little uptight than be the victim of fraud.
5. As mentioned in the first paragraph, there a several different options for funding your home improvement project. You’ll need to decide what type of loan will work best in your situation; you may be able to choose a home equity loan or line of credit or a personal loan or line of credit.
6. You may be able to get pre-approved for a loan, at which point you’ll have a pretty good idea of the amount you’ll actually be able to borrow. If the amount is less than you’d planned, you may need to re-evaluate and prioritize your project list.
7. Last but not least, make sure you can make the payments before you sign on the bottom line. Even though banks are more reserved about lending money these days, they still may offer a bigger loan than you can comfortably manage. Only you know what you can really handle—be honest with yourself! Also, if you are taking a home equity loan, it’s wise to leave at least 20% equity in your home so you have a reserve in case of emergency.

What Are the Current Home Improvement Loan Rates?

The best answer—it depends. Home improvement loan rates will vary by lender and type of loan. Loans based on the equity in your home sometimes have lower interest rates since they are tied to some collateral, while loans not tied to your home’s equity or other collateral often have higher rates because they are a bigger risk for the lender. Your interest rate will also depend upon your credit score and your debt-to-income ratio.

Getting a Little Back—Home Improvement Tax Credits

This paragraph must start with a disclaimer—we are not tax professionals. Seek the advice of a tax professional before claiming any tax benefit on your return! With that said, we will point out that you may be able to reap tax benefits from your home improvement project. You may be able to write off all or some of the interest in your home equity loan. Also, the Federal government, as well as some state and local governments offer tax credits for certain projects. These credits usually support projects that improve energy efficiency or add green energy sources to your home.

The Builders Home & Remodeling Show Returns to the St. Charles Convention Center – with FREE Admission and FREE Parking

The 31st Annual Builders Home & Remodeling Show, produced by the Home Builders Association, runs October 14-16 at the St. Charles Convention Center. Attendees can visit 200 companies in more than 300 booths on two levels. The show saves you time and money and is the place to find information, products and services for your home, all under one roof.

When summer comes to an end, it’s time to start thinking about those fall and winter home projects. The Home & Remodeling Show is a great place to plan, prepare and get started! Save time by visiting multiple manufacturers in one day. Save money by taking advantage of show specials and learning about the latest energy-efficient products and technologies.

Improve your home, inside and out, with help from national and local celebrity experts. Attend a variety of seminars at the Home Idea Stage. Jeff Holper, The Mole Hunter will help you rid your yard of moles and other pesky creatures. Scott Mosby, KMOX Home Answer Man will share information that will help you make your next home project a success. Thompson Price, of Thompson Price Kitchens, Baths, Home outlines options for your kitchen remodel with his seminar “Good Better & Best – How Different They Can Be.” And Dan Hechler of Hechler’s Hearth & Home will help you make your fireplace more efficient.

Do you have a piece of art or an antique that you have always wondered what it’s worth? Bring it to the show for a free appraisal by Dr. Lori, certified art and antiques appraiser, art historian and museum curator. As she evaluates objects, Dr. Lori shares secrets that antique and art dealers just don’t want you to know. You’ll have fun even if your treasure is trash!

Unlike most art and antique appraisers, Dr. Lori has a Ph.D. in art history and does not have an interest in buying people’s objects, thus ensuring an honest, ethical, and accurate appraisal. With more than 100 events and in-home appraisals, Dr. Lori reviews approximately 20,000 items a year. Appraisals take place as part of Dr. Lori’s presentations – one appraisal per person on a first-come, first-served basis. Dr. Lori can appraise from a photograph.

Attend floral design seminars full of fun, innovative ideas presented by Walter Knoll Florist’s world-class design team at the Walter Knoll Holiday Floral Stage. Learn how to create fantastic floral decorations for the fall and winter holidays that will impress your guests and make your home festive and attractive. You could even be chosen to have a hands-on floral experience!

The Home & Remodeling Show is always a fun destination for the whole family. Don’t miss the
3rd Annual Mills Apple Festival, presented by Mills Apple Farm for fun fall festivities. Enjoy FREE samples of apples, apple pie and cider. Purchase “made from scratch” apple pies, turnovers, cookies and other delicious treats – plus a variety of apples fresh from the orchards in Marine, IL. There will be FREE pumpkins and pumpkin painting for kids 12 and under while supplies last – as well as games and temporary tattoos!

Shop for great bargains at the Building Products Warehouse Sale. Habitat for Humanity of St. Charles County, a local affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, has a retail store in St. Peters. The Habitat for Humanity ReStore sells new and used home improvement merchandise to the public at deeply discounted prices. They are bringing a mini Habitat ReStore to the Show, so visitors can shop for great deals on home improvement merchandise. Items may include doors, cabinetry, appliances, sinks, and smaller items like nails, screws, tile and light fixtures. The merchandise is great for the average home owner, rental property owners and contractors of all levels. All proceeds benefit Habitat for Humanity of St. Charles County.

Do you have questions about your project or your home in general? The Home & Remodeling Show has the experts who can help. Visit the Mosby Solution Center, an area of the show where some of St. Louis’s top companies come together under the umbrella of Scott Mosby. Get answers to those nagging questions from a variety of home experts all in one place. And visit the Home Advice Stage, where guest speakers will present useful information to help homeowners maintain, improve, and live safely in their homes.

The Home & Remodeling Show is your chance to see more than 300 booths featuring the latest products and services for your home all under one roof! More than 200 companies can help you find what you need to get those home projects done.

Show hours are 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, October 14 and Saturday, October 15 and 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 16. Admission and parking are FREE. For more information, visit http://visit www.STLHomeShow.com.