Home Upgrades

Georgia Custom Home Builder Tomorrow's Homes

2009-04-14T11:10:00.001-07:00

Georgia Custom Home Builder - Tomorrow's Homes

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PRLog (Press Release) – Apr 10, 2009 – Northeast Georgia home builder, Tomorrow’s Homes, has launched a new web site with new home plans, photos and new floor plans for home buyers in the Northeast Georgia. The web site at http://www.tomorrowshomes.com , has been upgraded to include new home plans, floor plans of all the available home models, and testimonials from the long list of satisfied homebuyers. Tomorrow’s Homes builds custom homes and houses in and around Elberton, Hartwell, Athens, Gainesville, Jefferson, Commerce, Watkinsville and other Northeast Georgia cities.

Building Your Georgia Dream Home

When you buy the average home for sale, it will have many things you do not like, but are forced to accept. Then comes the upgrades, the changes, the repainting, and all those things you have to do to get the home like you want it. That’s not value! On the other hand, you can let Tomorrow’s Homes build you a new home with everything like you want it from the start. You select the types of floors you want, the interior and exterior colors, the types of cabinets and countertops that are best for you. Select from many floor plans to find the one you like and the one that best fits your property. That’s what a “Dream Home” is all about. It does not have to be huge or overly expensive, it has to be a home built the way you want it.

The Home Building Process

Building a new home can be a scary experience, but Tomorrow’s Homes will take you through the complete process of building your Northeast Georgia home. They will explain the building process, help you with finding the right financing for your home loan, and keep you informed every step of the way from start to finish. Their goal is to make you a happy homeowner and they do that by establishing a good relationship with you, and keeping you informed throughout the home build process.

Tomorrow's Homes has been in business for almost 40 years. They are members of the Athens Area Home Builders Association, The National Association of Home Builders, the Better Business Bureau, and the Madison County Chamber of Commerce, and are fully licensed and insured. In short, Tomorrow’s Homes is a name you can trust when building a new home.

Tomorrow's Homes builds custom homes throughout Northeast Georgia to include custom built homes in Jackson County, Madison County, Stephens County, Oglethorpe County, Banks County, Franklin County, Elbert County, Wilkes County, Athens-Clarke County, Hart County, Habersham County, Morgan County & other Georgia counties. Cities where Tomorrows Homes builds custom homes and custom houses include, Athens, GA, Elberton, GA, Hartwell, GA, Danielsville, Carnesville, Toccoa, Commerce, Comer, Jefferson, Homer, Colbert, Lula, Lavonia, Royston, Cornelia, Maysville, Bowman, Nicholson, Hull, Martin and Canton, GA.

For more information about Tomorrow’s Homes and building your new home, call 706-552-3338 or visit their new web site at http://www.tomorrowshomes.com.

Tomorrow's Homes, Inc.
PO Box 6225, Athens, GA 30604
Phone 706.552.3338
Fax 706.549.1992
lcrum@tomorrowshomes.com

Web Services provide by CLC Web Designs, web development for small business, http://www.clcweb.com.

Memphis Home Service Companies

2008-06-05T12:44:00.000-07:00

Home Service Company Directory For Memphis & Mid-South

The Memphis Home Services Directory, is dedicated to providing Memphis homeowners a listing of the very best, top rated Home Service Companies, giving homeowners an advantage to making an educated decision when selecting a contractor for your home service project.

The Memphis Home Service Directory tries to find home service companies in the Memphis area that provide superior service and customer satisfaction. When you hire a Memphis home service company, you can provide feed back to them which they will post on their web site. If they receive more than two customer service complaints about any of the companies, they will be removed from our web site. Good or bad, the feedback you send will be reported on this web site.

They also want to find more of the great Memphis home service companies that are not yet listed on their web site. If you had exceptional customer service from Memphis service company that is not listed on our web site, please give us the name of the company so we can add them to our list of best Memphis service companies.

Concrete Countertops Forge Elegance and Art

2007-04-26T07:17:00.000-07:00

By Khara Dizmon, Concrete Network Managing Editor

True art is a passion. And it's a passion that is evident in Brian and Janet Creasy of Coulee Concrete Designs, LLC. Combining their creative talent, and ambitious desire to serve their clients with the highest level of integrity, quality, and expertise, Coulee Concrete Designs epitomizes what is possible when a passion for art fuses with functional design.

Based in Lake Oswego, Oregon, Brian and Janet focus on creating custom concrete countertops and other elements for homes and offices using the durability and character of concrete.

Recently, they were contacted by Alina and Derek Norcom of West Linn Med Spa. "Alina was in need of an eclectic reception piece that made a cool, understated 'wow' to her patients and clientele," says Janet. "They couldn't find what they wanted for a reception table. They wanted something very natural, like a river," she explains.

Design and artistic element ideas started flowing from brainstorming, and research between the Creasy's and their client. "They had a laundry list of things to include," recalls Janet about the design phase. Some of the items included a water feature, rocky edge, lots of inlays, etc. "We believe less is more," says Janet, "so they ended up leaving a lot of this out, but we did include some foliage inlays with wood and copper accents. The key was to streamline the best options and create the signature piece."

Using computer aided designs and layouts, the Creasy's were able to illustrate a variety of options and colors in order to decide on the final piece. "We thought the colors and shape were distinctive in and of itself," explains Janet. The final functional art piece was an asymmetrical "S" shape emulating a river bed in two levels. "It includes several pieces of 'jewelry', our term for embellishments," explains Janet, "such as an integrated bowl for river rocks, imprinted samples of northwestern foliage and a rocky 'live edge' that only comes from the customability of concrete." It also incorporated a sand color on the bottom countertop and a blue color on the top countertop to coincide with a river theme.

The lower countertop is 9 foot by 3 inches long, 32 inches wide and was precast in two molds. "It was too long as one solid piece unless poured in place, which we prefer not to do," explains Brian Creasy. "So we designed it so that the two pieces could be pulled together mechanically with copper compressed in between to create a seam." The Creasy's also purposely mixed the bottom piece in a cold facility to give it a 'live edge.' "The 'live edge' creates the look of voids along the bottom edge. The look is similar to a river bed," says Brian. A maple leaf inlay was also put into the mold before the countertop was poured creating a personalized distinction along the edge of the countertop.

For the upper countertop, the clients decided on a glossy finish and the blue color called Tahoe. Cast in a single mold, the countertop is 6 foot long and has a cantilevered edge that extends 18 inches. "It's a bit long without support," explains Brian, "so we made a tripod of 1/4" copper rod which we pre-stressed, giving it an arch. We compressed it between the two surfaces to provide support."

To finish and preserve the pieces, a penetrating sealer and wax were used. Installed in the entryway of the medical spa, "the countertops are posted proudly on a custom cherry wood base with back lit copper logo and trim," points out Janet.

In the background on the wall is a shadow box that Janet and Brian made and gave as a gift to the client. "It has their logo on it with river rocks inside on the shelf. It's the same Tahoe blue color used in the desk and mixed with a charcoal color," explains Janet.

Coulee Concrete Designs revels in the services they provide, turning customer's dreams into realities while creating a useable, functional piece. According to Janet, "We like to celebrate in the true beauty of concrete, letting the material show us some of its distinct characteristics. Each piece is unique, something that we like to bring into the mass marketing of everyday living."

And whether it's transforming their passion into countertops, sinks, floors, fireplace surrounds or myriad other types of concrete elements, the Creasy's understand the infinite design possibilities of concrete. Together they create unique and timeless pieces that are both functional and artistic.

Coulee Concrete Designs
Janet and Brian Creasy
19398 River Run Dr.
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
Office: 503-914-5993

See Coulee Concrete Countertop Photos at

Finish Your Basement

2007-04-26T05:18:00.000-07:00

(ARA) - Whether it's extra bedroom space, a new den, a playroom or just a quiet spot to call your own, finishing the basement is one of the greatest ways to improve cramped living. However, a basement has a few unique characteristics that must be considered to ensure that the space functions well for your needs.

First, be sure that you obtain all the proper permits to complete your project. Check with your local government center or online to find out what is required in your area. Most local city, county, and state requirements can be found online.

One of the most common problems with basement refinishing ideas is the ceiling height. Many basement ceilings are lower than the average ceilings in your home. One way to help reduce this problem is to finish around your ductwork. Boxing (enclosing) around it allows you to have higher ceilings in the majority of your basement.

This solution works for some. Others may feel the boxed enclosures are an unattractive eye sore. Ductwork generally takes up a lot of space on a basement ceiling. Re-ducting to accommodate your basement finishing ideas is also an option but can be very costly. Using a vaulted ceiling also helps give the illusion of a taller space.

Basement Finishing Ideas

When purchasing carpeting for your new room, be sure to obtain good padding and go for thicker carpet. Your upstairs rooms generally have wood under the carpet. However, in your basement it will likely be concrete. Thus, the flooring upstairs is a little softer by nature. If your basement floor is concrete, adding a little extra cushion makes it more comfortable. If you choose hardwood floors, you may still want an extra layer of padding to help control moisture.

You'll also want to consider the plumbing and electrical facilities in your basement. Make sure to provide easy access to areas that may need repairs later. These can be covered but you'll need to make sure the covering can be removed without damaging adjoining materials. Again, boxing in with easy access openings is the method most commonly used.

A basement remodel is a major project. It is important to decide what you want before you find a contractor to finish your basement. It will make the process flow more smoothly and help to ensure that the contractor understands your needs, style and desires before the project starts. This will also help you get both accurate pricing and a better estimate on the timeline of your project from your contractor.

For a reliable contractor in your area, accurate and competitive pricing and other remodeling ideas, go to www.reliableremodeler.com.

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Create the Custom Kitchen of Your Dreams

2007-04-26T05:09:00.000-07:00

(ARA) - Creating a custom kitchen in your remodeling or new home plans is a major task. A custom kitchen requires careful planning of many details in several different areas. Getting started begins with taking what's in your head and putting it onto paper. It needs to meet all the possible uses you may have for it. This will include activities such as cooking, dining, and socializing. Considering your home's style along with your budget will also help you establish a plan.

While this may sound like a large order, a thorough plan can ultimately bring you the results you want. Begin by browsing and saving ideas from magazines, the Internet and any other resources you find appealing. Start a file to save all the pictures and specifications as well as all the cabinet, appliance and flooring information.

It's a good idea to establish a budget (how much you're willing to spend) before you actually have the plans drawn. Without this kind of planning, you may have major expense surprises in the middle of building your kitchen. As you budget, the goal is to spend your dollars on what is important to you

Once you've gathered enough ideas and information, and established a budget it's time to begin planning your custom kitchen.

Custom Kitchens

Every kitchen must begin with a floor plan. This floor plan must set the "triangle" of your kitchen. The kitchen triangle is composed of three work areas: food storage, food preparation and clean up. How these areas are designed and placed in conjunction with each other sets the stage for the functionality of your kitchen.

Combine a well-drawn plan with styles and accent pieces to display your own unique style and tastes and your custom kitchen will become a successful reality.

Many Internet sites offer virtual planning that allows you to construct an image of your proposed custom kitchen designs. By creating more than one plan using these virtual designers, you get great opportunities to compare, evaluate and combine solutions to create near perfect custom kitchens. It will also allow you some time to look at what you've created so you have exactly what you want before your construction begins.

Go to Granite Info Page for granite countertops ideas

Sprinkler Systems

2007-03-31T12:26:00.001-07:00

Upgrade your home with commercial fire sprinklers from Swift Fire Protection

Antique Furniture at McLean Refinishing

2007-03-29T12:09:00.000-07:00

Antique Furniture Restoration, Repair & Refinishing
Established in 1979 by Fred McLean, McLean’s Refinishing, Inc. is Athens’ and Northeast Georgia’s most trusted name in furniture refinishing and restoration. They are a full service business committed to quality, expert craftsmanship, and a basic love of antiques and wood working. Through the years, they have evolved into a major workshop that is capable of handling the smallest jewelry box to a complete home of furniture. They also specialize in commercial work including in-office touchups and repair, restoring furniture in government offices, sororities, fraternities, and public libraries. With over 25 years of experience, McLean’s Refinishing can handle any restoration need.
At McLean’s Refinishing, restoring furniture has been a labor of love as long as they have been in business. McLean’s loves antiques, but also understands that, new or old, antique or modern, a person’s furniture is a part of the person. Their approach is to keep the customer involved in the restoration, and keep them informed of the progress. Restoration does not always mean making an old piece of furniture look new. Sometimes restoration means making the piece look the way it did right before the latest damage occurred. Mom wants to remember every mark on her son’s high chair except the broken leg the movers caused, so they strive to repair the the break and preserve the history of her son’s chair, and take care to understand people’s desires and provide quality furniture restoration and repair services.

McLean’s can do any type repair or restoration service including complete restoration, replacement of parts, veneering, lathe work, carving, chair caning, fire or flood damage restoration, curved glass replacement, major structural repair, beveled mirror repair, or leather replacement. They also can provide you damaged furniture repair insurance estimates and antique appraisals.
Mclean’s also has lots of antique furniture for sale. Check them out on the web at www.mcleansrefinishing.com , call us at 706-769-7590 or come by our facility at 1303 Hodges Mill Road, Bogart, Georgia. They are just outside of Athens and only a short drive from the Atlanta Metro area. Open Monday-Thursday 8AM-5:30PM & Friday 8AM-Noon or by appointment

Bamboo Floors

2007-03-18T16:20:00.000-07:00

Manufactured bamboo flooring commonly found in North American markets is an engineered hardwood. The bamboo is split and flattened, before being laminated together with glue under high pressure. Bamboo floors are typically made available in planks. Known for its resistance to insects and moisture, bamboo flooring has made a considerable impact in the North American marketplace. Its popularity is also rising in Europe, Asia and other parts of the world with increasing awareness. Despite being technically a grass, bamboo is highly durable and sturdy. As far as flooring goes, it is 10% harder than red oak. The two major colors are natural (similar to beech) and carbonized (similar to oak). The process of steaming bamboo material under a controlled pressure and temperature is called carbonization, in which bio-organisms and sugar breaks down, and the color of the material changes into brownish. The natural and carbonized bamboo floors are typically referred to as solid bamboo, although in fact the structures are layered, similar to a plywood.

There are several other type of structures of bamboo floors. One of which is commonly known as strand woven bamboo, which aimed to achieve strength and stablility. And the Fused Fiber Floor (F3) or Gemplex bamboo provides certain appearance patterns to achieve designers decoration effects.

It is available in two variations: vertical and horizontal-grain orientation, providing two very distinct looks. In the vertical grain, the individual joints in a bamboo cane are hard to discern, resulting in a consistent coloration and even grain. In the horizontal-grain orientation, each individual joint is clearly visible. Though these two options differ in appearance and offer customers more visual choices, they offer the same strength characteristics.
You invested your valuable time deciding which variation of bamboo flooring would best compliment your décor. Then you invested your hard-earned money purchasing your carefully-made choice and preparing for its installation. Now, the job is finished and you’re standing there admiring your (or perhaps a professional installer’s) beautiful work.

You can’t wait to move the furniture in and invite everyone you know over to share your excitement. But before you do, there are a few things you need to know to protect your investment and keep it looking as great as it does now.

Flooring manufacturers usually include care and maintenance recommendations with their products. However, if you didn’t find such information with your flooring, the next best thing to do is contact the manufacturer. After all, there is no one better qualified to tell you how to care for your bamboo floor than the people who designed it, tested it, and manufactured it. The manufacturer is always your number one resource for product information.

You’ll probably find a customer service phone number or a web site listed on the installation instructions, or maybe printed on the carton. But if not, don’t panic. We have done some research and compiled a generic list of common sense recommendations – and here they are:
Carry, do not drag or push furniture across the floor
Put felt or rubber pads under each furniture leg
Lay mats or throw rugs with non-abrasive backing at each doorway
Also, it would be a good idea to verify with the mat or rug manufacturer that the backing will not chemically react with your floor’s finish
Place an area rug in high-traffic areas
Again, verify that the backing is non-abrasive and will not chemically react with the floor’s finish
Do not walk on the floor with spike high heels or athletic cleats
Keep any pets’ claws closely trimmed
Place a drip pan under potted plants, but allow airflow underneath it
Install curtains, blinds, or window tint to prevent UV faded areas
Immediately clean food and liquid spills with a slightly dampened cloth, then dry the floor with a soft cloth or towel
Regularly clean the floor with a dust mop, soft bristled broom, soft bristled vacuum cleaner, or a wood floor mop kit
If possible, obtain the manufacturer’s mopping recommendations
Use only wood floor cleaning products specially formulated for urethane finishes
If these products are not available, you can mix 1/4 cup of white vinegar with one quart of water as a substitute
Use a thoroughly wrung soft cloth or sponge, work in small areas at a time, and dry each area with a soft cloth or towel before continuing
Do not use wax, oil soap, common household cleaners, or any abrasive cleaners
Restore shine, if required, with an electric buffer and soft, dry pad
It is highly recommended to seek professional assistance with this type of equipment
Remember: always follow the recommendations of your flooring manufacturer first. Their advice along with some common sense will save you time consuming and costly repairs, and let you enjoy your beautiful new bamboo floor for many years to come.

Get More Information about Bamboo and other hardwood floors at The Flooring Info Page.

Hardwood Refinishing

2007-03-18T11:57:00.000-07:00

How do you know when the time is right to refinish your hardwood floors? Hardwood floors tend to be quite durable and the stains long lasting. There are, of course, places in high traffic areas that will begin to show signs of wear long before the floors have worn out their beauty of usefulness. With that in mind, how do you know when the time is right for refinishing?

Refinishing hardwood floors doesn’t have to be the stuff that nightmares are made of. In fact, if at all possible this is the kind of chore you should really entrust to professionals (this way someone else is responsible if something gets messed up). Another reason to entrust this to professionals is that they have access to the best of power tools for this specific job. And using the right tools is sometimes all the difference in the world. While it wouldn’t be cost effective for the average home owner to purchase these tools for a one time project, a professional floor person would often have cause to use these tools.

So what is the difference between a floor that simply needs to be cleaned and one that needs to be completely refinished? One way to do this is to go to one of the high traffic run down areas of your floor and spill a few drops of liquid onto the floor. If the liquid beads up there is still some life left in your original finish and you are not quite ready for a major overhaul. If on the other hand, the wood soaks the water right up, it is time to refinish.

One of the great things about refinishing is that you can choose to go lighter or darker than before or even to use the exact same finish. If you’re looking for a way to change the look of a room, changing the finish of your floors is definitely a way to make a large impact on a room. Keep in mind that stain samples will look different when they are on the entire floor and that different stains react differently to different hardwoods, you definitely want to choose a stain that is compatible to the hardwoods of your floors. The age of your floor also has a tremendous impact on how the stain will look when the floor is finished. A good place to try stain samples is the floorboard of a closet.

Hardwood flooring comes in many different stains and colors, the more popular stain options include stains that appear natural, light stains that don’t significantly altar the look of the wood, medium stains, which bring out a darker tint in the grain of the wood, and dark stains, which provide a rich, velvety feel to the floor.

If you haven’t something that reaches out and grabs you, you can also go to a local hardware store and have a stain custom blended for your floors. You can get really creative for these stains and have a lot of fun in the process, but remember this is your home and you have to live with the floors once they are finished.

Get more information about hardwood floors at Floor Info Page.

Upgrade Home Safety With A Fire Blanket

2007-03-18T11:38:00.000-07:00

Fire blankets are recommended by all the emergency services and people involved in health and safety. They immediately know the safety benefits that fire blankets can bring when used correctly. They should be made easily accessible near an exit doorway. Never hide them away in draws or cupboards and expect to find them easily when a fire takes hold. Placing them near to an exit ensures that you have away out should the fire blanket not be enough or if things go wrong.
Fire blankets are also ideal for covering someone who has actually caught fire and can also be worn over the head if you need to pass an area that is on fire or where extreme temperatures are causing difficulty. Protecting the vital organs is the most important factor when you are confronted with fire.
Fire blankets can be purchased in many DIY stores and hardware shops and the costs varies with the type and size you need. Many of the fire blankets can be reusable after washing though you will need to check the supporting documents for confirmation of this.
Every home should have a fire blanket located in the kitchen or where cooking takes place. When you consider the minimal cost to purchase one against the protection they provide for your home, your personal effects and of course your loved ones they will be one of the best investments you can ever make.

Order your fire banket onl-line from Swift Fire Protection for only $28.

Increase Your Homes Value with Crown Molding

2007-03-18T11:31:00.000-07:00

When it comes to wood molding, if you're looking for ways to put it to use in your home, you'll be glad to know that there's are tons of great uses for it. Using different types of molds, such as crown molding will give your home uniqueness, as well as increase your homes price point.
When you're ready sell your home, your potential buyers will place much more value on your home since it will look different than your neighbors. Even real estate experts and pro's agree that having fancy molds in your home is something that people notice. Sometimes they can even close the sale on this aspect alone.
Your choice in wood molding helps show off your creativity as well as your style. It can provide your home with a comfortable atmosphere, which is essential for you to actually enjoy the home in which you live in. If there's a look that you've always craved, then wood molding can help you achieve that.
Molds come in so many different styles, allowing you to become your own person of originality when designing your wood moldings. You can transition into the artist of your home and craft your masterpiece simply through moldings.
You'll have tons of designs to choose from, and molding will give you the choice of creating the look for your home you have forever wanted. Furthermore, it can decrease the cost of finishing out your wall. It is much less expensive to finish the wall with molding than with any other product on the market today.
A great choice for wood molding is for door trim. There are many different styles to choose from, and just the fact of adding the molding alone is enough to transition the entire look of your home, no matter which style you choose actually. One good alteration is to opt to use wood blocks for corners instead of mitered corners. This gives you home a more decorative look.

Now, another great and common use for molding is baseboards. Walls these days almost look incomplete without them. However, even though they're common, this doesn't mean that yours can't be unique if you just use a little imagination and creativity. One thing to keep in mind however is that your baseboards must be durable, because much of time they're getting banged by feet (especially if you have children) and chairs, and all sorts of things. Therefore it's recommended that you use wood since this is about the most durable, and actually can be easily cleaned too.
The way you choose your molding is confined only by your imagination. It's a fast and easy way to spruce up any home whether for baseboards, door trim, ceiling trim, or window casings, you simply cannot go wrong when choosing your molding.
It's your creation, and you have that creative freedom to exactly what you want that will give you the atmosphere that will give you the best feeling when relaxing in your home.

Better Baths for Better Living, Resale By Matthew M. F. Miller

2007-03-18T11:25:00.000-07:00

Smart design choices in remodeling your bathroom will get you the most satisfaction now – and the best returns later.
Before buyers commit to purchasing a house, they like to imagine themselves living there. A worn, dated bathroom can create the kind of mental block that leads to lower – and fewer – offers.
The popularity of bathroom remodels shows that plenty of people are willing to buy a home with dingy baths, but most will factor in the cost of the needed remodel when they make their offer. “Most people today want the new or updated house so they don’t have to fool with it,” says sales agent Mary H. Raymond of Greenville, Del.
Kathy McCleary, a regular contributor to HGTV, advises homeowners on the type of renovations they should choose: "So exactly what should you improve when you redo your kitchen or bathroom? Think traditional: all-wood cabinets, commercial-look appliances, natural wood or stone floors, and stone countertops."
According to Mortgage News Daily, Dallas, Texas, the average American home is 32 years old and regularly needs maintenance and upgrading. This consistent need means that the home improvement market has boomed in the last decade, with expenditures growing from $153 billion in 1995 to about $233 billion dollars in 2003.
The Federal Reserve Board reports that 30 percent of the $333 billion drawn from their home equity between 2001 and 2003 were spent on home renovations.
Here are design tips to update your bath in ways that enhance your living space now and also add to your home’s resale value later.
• Avoid down lights at the vanity. Instead, provide a pair of decorative light sconces flanking the mirror for even illumination.
• Use simple tile patterns and accents to liven up the character of the room.
• Always use a pressure-balanced shower faucet to avoid scalding.
• Consider a banjo countertop that extends over the toilet for more counter space and built-in shelves for towel storage.
• Use a shower curtain rather than a glass enclosure to make the room feel less closed-in. A large mirror also can make a small bath feel bigger.
• If the full bath is to be used only by adults, raise the height of the vanity to 36 inches to make its use more comfortable.

Selecting the right upgrades for your home

2007-03-18T11:18:00.000-07:00

(NUI) - You've found the perfect neighborhood, selected a home plan of your dreams and chosen a reputable builder. But the decision-making doesn't stop there: There are literally thousands of innovative upgrades that you can incorporate into your new home as it is being built.
According to Angie Stevens, design coordinator with Kopf Builders in Cleveland and a member of the American Society of Interior Designers, there are several advantages to upgrading during the building process. First, it usually is much more convenient to have the builder upgrade items during the construction process. Plus, you may be able to take advantage of financial incentives so that the upgrades don't break the bank. Here are some tips from Stevens for choosing the best features and upgrades for your new home.

Make the house your home. One of the best reasons to upgrade your building plan is to infuse it with your own style. Whether you want a country look or a contemporary flair, the options you select will help convey your style throughout the house.

Do the math. One major benefit of upgrading during the building process is rolling the cost of the upgrades into your mortgage loan. Although you may pay slightly more in taxes initially, the upgrades will be paid off at a lower interest rate than if you later decided to upgrade and took out a home equity loan. In addition, most builders will include upgrades in your home warranty.

Think about resale. What you choose now can play a big role in determining the resale value of your home in the future. Name-brand appliances and popular custom upgrades will appeal to potential buyers. The smartest plan of action is to put money into the most-used areas of the home, particularly the kitchen and bathrooms. Some of the items to consider upgrading include the faucets, flooring, appliances, countertops, cabinets and lighting.

For example, consider a high-arc pull-down spout model, like the Aberdeen faucet from Moen, in the kitchen. It has a classic look, a variety of finishes and a unique "pause" button that allows you to stop the water flow. In the bathroom, choose a faucet like the Vestige faucet from Moen. It offers elaborate traditional styling in a host of finishes to complement your bath accessories.

Add Luxury To Your Bathroom And Value To Your Home by Andrew Regan

2007-03-10T16:19:00.000-08:00

If you’re looking to increase the “wow" factor of your home or add value to your property, installing a well designed, modern luxury bathroom might be the perfect answer. The bathroom is one of the most important rooms in the home; as a place of refuge and relaxation where you can spend time washing away the worries of everyday life - so it’s important to create a space that you enjoy and in which you can unwind after a busy day.
There are a number of ways to spruce up an old bathroom: by adding new features such as spa baths, walk-in showers and bidets you can create a bathroom that will impress family, friends and potential buyers alike, as well as reflect your personal taste.
Whirlpool baths - once only found in high-class hotel luxury bathroom suites - are now much more affordable to the everyday homeowner. They've rapidly increased in popularity because of their relaxing properties and hydrotherapy health benefits, which are well known for soothing away aches and pains. Such baths can range in size from large freestanding hot tubs which hold several people, to compact corner baths which even the smallest bathrooms can accommodate - so anybody can install one.
Luxury showers are another way of adding a touch of class to a bathroom or value to your property. Why put up with a shower that offers little more than a cold trickle when you can enjoy a walk-in shower that will massage your body with up to twelve jets? Or, why not install a shower with a steam system, FM radio and CD/MP3 player? Despite the high quality luxury nature of such showers, prices needn't break the bank either: jet showers start at well under $1000.
If you think that a great deal of space is needed to install a luxury bathroom, think again. In fact, a number of suites cater to homes with limited space, offering compact corner showers and baths, as well as stylish slim line toilets and basins - all with a high quality finish. However, if space is no object, then a freestanding roll top bath will add an air of elegance to your bathroom. There are a range of styles available, from the traditional double ended model, to slipper baths, boat baths and corner baths.
Installing a modern bathroom will ultimately help you relax, add class to your home and enhance the value of your property - not to mention, give your guests something to talk about!
Andrew Regan is an online, freelance journalist.

Sunrooms and Patio Enclosures by Stu Silverman

2007-03-10T16:14:00.000-08:00

If you're thinking of adding a sunroom or enclosed patio onto your home, join the half million Americans who are discovering the benefits of 3- and 4-season enclosures each year. According to the U.S. Census, about half of the 1.27 million new, single-family homes built in 2001 had some kind of attached porch
And there's good reason for the popularity - aside from relaxing and enjoying the sunshine and stars with the comforts of indoors. Adding a sunroom or patio enclosure can extend your living area, often at less than half the cost of a standard home addition.
Costs less than conventional addition
A sunroom addition can range from $12,000 to $70,000, depending on models and features, compared to $30,000 to $80,000 for a conventional room addition. And sunrooms and patio enclosures can often be built where underground obstacles, or building codes and zoning ordinances, restrict conventional backyard additions.
Then consider that adding a sunroom has one of the highest returns-on-investment of all home improvements, and it's no wonder that America's going sunroom-crazy. Some sources estimate that you'll recoup between 65-95% of your investment when adding a sunroom, depending on your geographic location and features included.
A sunroom helps sell your home faster and for more money
Because of all the financial and usage benefits, sunrooms are the third most popular amenity requested in homes over $250,000, according to a recent survey in Builder Magazine. And homes with a properly designed sunroom tend to sell faster and for far more money than those without.
According to some estimates, the average cost to install a sunroom on an existing home is between $125 and $150 per square foot. This includes the room itself, installation and related construction work, such as foundations, floors and tear-out work. Keep in mind that these are averages, and final costs can vary dramatically based on where you live, contractors, complexity of the project, quality of products and the need for extra construction work on your existing home to accommodate the addition. Adding a sunroom or patio enclosure to a new home will be significantly less expensive.
Inform your insurance company
You will need a building permit for your sunroom or patio enclosure, so you need to ensure that your sunroom or patio enclosure contractor is licensed. Discuss with your contractor who will obtain the permit, and ensure that you have one before any work begins. Then once your sunroom or patio enclosure is complete, inform your house insurance company of the addition to arrange adequate coverage. And keep in mind that a sunroom is usually not considered to be a square footage addition to your home, but a patio addition. Check the local bylaws to be sure.
Stu Silverman is a home improvement advice columnist and freelance writer for http://www.Contractors.com.

Bamboo Kitchen Flooring By James Mahony

2007-03-10T15:54:00.000-08:00

Bamboo kitchen flooring is made from the fastest growing plant on earth. It grows faster that hardwood. Bamboo flooring is rapidly becoming the hottest trend in kitchen design today. Because of the rising cost of hardwood and the problems of deforestation bamboo is being seen as a good alternative to hardwood. Besides being quite beautiful it is a more renewable resource. Although bamboo, like wood, is firm and strong, it is actually a grass, which grows much faster than most trees. The stalks of bamboo reach maturity in only a few years, as opposed to the decades it takes for trees to develop and mature. Certain wood species can take as long as 50 years to mature. The bamboo tree will usually mature in about five or six years. Bamboo is also known for being versatile. It has at least three floor styles. The first two are vertical and horizontal grain. The third style is called strand and has a woven impression to it. This type has more density and is two times harder that standard bamboo. Bamboo kitchen Flooring lets you bring the beauty of the outdoors into your kitchen. Bamboo kitchen flooring is known for being quite durable and strong. Bamboo kitchen flooring has some of the same characteristics of hardwood floor when it comes to durability. Among the characteristics of bamboo that has good fire and water resistance. It is relatively easy to maintain bamboo kitchen flooring. Some light mopping and sweeping is required. This is because bamboo is susceptible to scratches so that dirt, sand and other particles can cause some damage. You should also avoid using household cleaners on your bamboo kitchen floor. Today you need not be concerned about whether or not a bamboo floor will match your favorite color scheme, since it is possible to be able to choose just about any color you want. Many people love the natural look of bamboo floor but want something just a little different. Today some of the major producers of bamboo kitchen flooring are now making this flooring stained in a wide range of color choices. The grain is still visible, and one may be able to choose dark or subtle shades. Therefore there are many color choices is to suit most homeowners. Many homeowners will select the classic natural color options that will be compatible with practically any decor. Most kitchen bamboo flooring is laminated. The floors are made up of solid strips of bamboo that are joined together into a solid bamboo laminate. The resulting product is a durable, warp- insect- and moisture-resistant flooring material that is warp and moisture-resistant and that looks like wood. It is ideal for use in kitchen flooring. Locating the best buys on bamboo kitchen flooring is easy when using the Internet. Online shopping permits you to access some of the most beautiful bamboo kitchen flooring for the best price. No where else will you find the selection you can on the Internet. Bamboo flooring is rapidly becoming the hottest trend in kitchen design today. Because of the rising cost of hardwood and the problems of deforestation bamboo is being seen as a good alternative to hardwood. Besides being quite beautiful it is a more renewable resource. Although bamboo, like wood, is firm and strong, it is actually a grass, which grows much faster than most trees. The stalks of bamboo reach maturity in only a few years, as opposed to the decades it takes for trees to develop and mature. Certain wood species can take as long as 50 years to mature. The bamboo tree will usually mature in about five or six years. Bamboo is also known for being versatile. It has at least three floor styles. The first two are vertical and horizontal grain. The third style is called strand and has a woven impression to it. This type has more density and is two times harder that standard bamboo. Bamboo kitchen Flooring lets you bring the beauty of the outdoors into your kitchen. Bamboo kitchen flooring is known for being quite durable and strong. Bamboo kitchen flooring has some of the same characteristics of hardwood floor when it comes to durability. Among the characteristics of bamboo that has good fire and water resistance. It is relatively easy to maintain bamboo kitchen flooring. Some light mopping and sweeping is required. This is because bamboo is susceptible to scratches so that dirt, sand and other particles can cause some damage. You should also avoid using household cleaners on your bamboo kitchen floor. Today you need not be concerned about whether or not a bamboo floor will match your favorite color scheme, since it is possible to be able to choose just about any color you want. Many people love the natural look of bamboo floor but want something just a little different. Today some of the major producers of bamboo kitchen flooring are now making this flooring stained in a wide range of color choices. The grain is still visible, and one may be able to choose dark or subtle shades. Therefore there are many color choices is to suit most homeowners. Many homeowners will select the classic natural color options that will be compatible with practically any decor. Most kitchen bamboo flooring is laminated. The floors are made up of solid strips of bamboo that are joined together into a solid bamboo laminate. The resulting product is a durable, warp- insect- and moisture-resistant flooring material that is warp and moisture-resistant and that looks like wood. It is ideal for use in kitchen flooring. Locating the best buys on bamboo kitchen flooring is easy when using the Internet. Online shopping permits you to access some of the most beautiful bamboo kitchen flooring for the best price. No where else will you find the selection you can on the Internet. It is also easier to do research and to be able to comparison shop online for your bamboo kitchen flooring selection. James Mahoney is the author of many kitchen design articles, and also publishes a newsletter on kitchen design. For information on other types of flooring, visit the Flooring Info Page.

New Refrigerator Innovations from GE

2007-02-22T16:23:00.000-08:00

Electronic Technology Drives Performance
Every GE refrigerator is designed using advanced technology that makes possible an impressive array of must-have features:
• AutoEnergy saver senses you’re away and adjusts operating cycles to reduce unecessary usage.• FrostGuard™ technology reduces freezer burn.• TurboCool™ feature cools the refrigerator after frequent door openings.• Sensor technology monitors temperatures constantly for accuracy and consistency.

External Controls Provide Easy Access
GE models are redesigned with external electronic controls that include a display of actual freezer and refrigerator temperatures. This gives the interior a cleaner, more streamlined appearance.

Refined Features Update the Look
GE refrigerators sport a newly-designed GE CleanTouch handle that’s sleek and smooth, with a sure-grip undersurface.
Gently contoured doors further enhance GE models, providing a sophisticated, up-to-date appearance.

GE Profile™ side-by-side refrigerators are loaded with innovative features designed to make every kitchen more functional...and more beautiful! PreciseFill technology means it’s now possible to fill pots and mixing bowls — or any container — with fresh, filtered water in easy-to-select, accurate measurements.

Newly Designed Integrated Dispenser
The sleek, molded, color-matched dispenser with LED lighting gives the entire refrigerator an attractive, updated look that enhances any kitchen.

ExpressChill™
Located on the dispenser is a one-touch control for ExpressChill, a full-extension, sealed crisper that chills beverages in a quick 45 minutes or less.

Electronic Beverage Center
Beverages, treats and medications are easily accessible and icy cold but never frozen. A built-in control prevents freezing.

CustomCool™
Only GE has it! Chills in minutes, thaws in hours and helps keep food fresh, longer.

Slide ’n Store™ Full-Extension Freezer Baskets Extends 16” for easy loading and unloading.

Richlite®: Bringing Kitchen Countertops Out of the Stone Age

2007-02-13T04:31:00.000-08:00

Richlite Company, a manufacturer of paper-based countertops, offers a collection of warm and natural-feeling surface materials that breathe new life into the kitchen, bath and office. Richlite’s® unique paper surfaces bring a soft and comfortable ambience to a room that's rarely achieved through cold, hard stone and plastic solid surfaces. It’s made from environmentally sustainable resources and is an attractive, durable, long-lasting material that complements a variety of design tastes.

Countertop surface materials come in all makes, colors and qualities but only Richlite® stands out for its unique paper content, natural look and warm appeal. It's produced out of environmentally sustainable materials unlike stone countertops quarried out of permanent holes in the ground. We're committed to building products that not only look good and last for years in the home or office but, also, can be manufactured with as little impact on the environment as possible.
Richlite’s Environmental & Social CommitmentRichlite is beautiful and sustainable. It’s unique in that it literally grows on trees. The material is made from pulp derived from certified managed forests in North America. The company is committed to reducing its impact on the environment by practicing sound manufacturing processes and producing products with sustainable materials.
Richlite is the first company to offer hemp-based countertops, a visually unique surface alternative that’s produced from an exceptionally sustainable resource. Richlite®’s hemp counters are made with fast-growing abaca fibers purchased from the Philippines and Ecuador. Abaca is a type of plant noted for its fibers used in weaving. The fibers, commonly referred to as hemp, have been used in textiles for more than 6,000 years. Few textiles are as strong or as long lasting as hemp. Today more than 25,000 products, including monetary currency and now countertops are made with the fibers. Get More info here

What Women Want

2007-02-05T08:47:00.000-08:00

September 4, 2006 - Boomer women embrace their roles as household decision makers and want builders and manufacturers to connect with their lifestyles, according to an article in the summer issue of 50+ Housing Magazine, published by NAHB's 50+ Housing Council.
"The 55- to 75-year old female has seen her role change from homemaker to purchaser of security, convenience and luxury items," said Barbara Kleger, boomer author, president of 55+ Consulting and a member of the NAHB 50+ Housing Council. "She is more educated and more involved in decision making."

Barbara Kleger 55+ Consulting"Women in this age group are the major decision makers not only for housing for themselves and their immediate families, but also for their elderly parents or in-laws," Kleger added
Marketing to today's 55+ woman means defining her needs by life stage and health, rather than chronological age, Kleger said. Women's needs and desires differ depending on whether they are widows, empty nesters or have just retired. Being newly single, a caregiver to an aging relative, a grandparent or in a second marriage or new career changes things, too.
"Women expect to live a full and active life in retirement, and they want it to be the best it can be," Kleger said. "In shopping for housing, women want to talk about quality and finishes and are very involved in customizing and choosing options."
Kleger goes on to say that Boomer women see themselves as non-traditional, as far as lifestyle and leisure activities are concerned. Popular fitness activities like golf or tennis may no longer appeal to them.
"Today's woman wants to spend her time doing things that exercise her mind, body and spirit." Retirement, according to Kleger, signals a new beginning and a redefinition of the 50+ years, and this is especially true for women.
"If you ask a woman what she wants in her next move she will tell you in terms of lifestyle. This generation seeks adventure, education, self-improvement, personal growth and self-definition," she said.
Kleger provided a quick list of what the 55+ woman is looking for:
Safety and security - Women want to know that maintenance and safety issues will be handled. A gated community may provide a sense of security.
Connections - More than ever, women want a sense of community, neighbors to talk to and things to do with them.
Convenience - More than just being close to family, shopping and familiar places, 55+ women want everything in their homes to be more convenient and easier than ever.
Balance and quality - It's not just about lifestyle. Women want their own time and their own space, which can be a home office, media room, place to exercise, sunroom or all of the above. She wants it all - and she is often willing to pay for it.
Trust - Women need to feel confident that the people she is talking to, and buying from, will follow through on their promises.
Expression - Choice is important. 55+ women want to control the things they want. Selecting the options and upgrades helps express individuality.

Kitchens and Baths Are Getting Bigger

2007-02-05T08:40:00.000-08:00

April 17, 2006 - The size of the kitchen and the size and number of bathrooms in the American home are on an upswing, according to the American Institute of Architect's Home Design Survey for the final quarter of last year. More than 40% of the architectural firms participating in the survey noted the trend, and a quarter of them also indicated that the number of kitchens - defined as separate facilities or secondary food storage or preparation areas - was also increasing.
"Both the square feet devoted to kitchens and the number of separate cooking facilities throughout the home are increasing, including the additions of outdoor kitchens in many areas of the country," said Kermit Baker, the institute's chief economist.
"As far as specific trends in kitchen design, granite countertops, natural wood cabinets and drinking water filtration systems are especially popular," he said. "Upscale products and features are going into bathroom design as well, shown by heated floors and towel racks, and even fireplaces becoming more common in homes, while heat lamps and whirlpools aren't nearly as prevalent."
Residential architects reported adding more pantry space and more upper-end appliances in the kitchen and increasingly integrating kitchen space with family space for younger children and other family members. New features are also being piled on in roomier bathrooms, including such upscale products as multi-head showers, hand showers and even steam showers.
The survey identified rising popularity for a number of kitchen products and features:
Larger pantry space (reported by 56% of the firms)
High-end appliances (55%)
Integration with family space (53%)
Natural stone counters (53%)
Island work areas (35%)
Natural wood cabinets (32%)
Thirty-seven percent reported that synthetic solid surface countertops were declining in popularity.
Bathroom products and features with growing demand, according to the firms that were surveyed, include:
Multi-head shower (63%)
Steam shower (35%)
Multiple vanities (29%)
Separate showers (28%)
Forty-one percent reported a downturn in the popularity of heat lamps and 31% said that whirlpools were losing ground.

Commercial Kitchen Equipment for Your Home

2007-01-29T11:57:00.000-08:00

If you want the very best kitchen equipment and appliances for your home, you might consider looking at commercial grade stoves, ranges, refrigeration, or other kitchen equipment. A good place to start your search is Restaurant Equipment News at www.restaurantequipmentnews.com . You can find photos, technical specifications, links to suppliers and other information about commercial kitchen equipment. Almost every brand of equipment listed has printable PDF format technical information, photos and more.

Some of the brands you will find include Comstock Castle which makes heavy duty stoves and ranges for the home as well as commercial grade cooking equipment. Other brands include Bakers Pride and Crown Verity which have the best outdoor grills and charbroilers you can buy. These are a deam come true for the die hard Bar-B-Quer. Heavy stainless construction that will last for years.

If you have an outdoor kitchen or a fishing camp that needs a large cooler, countertop griddle, grill, or large commercial range, you will find the top brands like AWP Wyott, NEMCO, US Cooler, True Refigeration, and Scotsman Ice Machines. Don't miss the keg cooler from Summit that will keep the beer cold for the entire game.

What ever your heavy duty kitchen equipment need, you can get a good start at Restaurant Equipment News, www.restaurantequipmentnews.com.

Atlanta Garden & Patio Show 2007

2007-01-21T17:07:00.000-08:00

The 2007 Atlanta Garden & Patio show will be held at the Cobb Galleria Centre, Atlanta, Georgia

Intersection of Cobb Parkway/US Hwy 41 and I-285 Across from Cumberland Mall
FREE PARKING
24-hour Free Information: 770-849-5555

The GMC Gallery of Gardens returns this year with nearly 20 fully-landscaped gardens by many of Atlanta’s premier landscapers. Come lose yourself in the serene settings of these gorgeous gardens featuring the theme of “Myth and Imagination.”
John Bourdage, "The Earl of Etiquette," can teach you all you need to know about the finer things in life. From business etiquette to food and wine pairing to proper etiquette for your children, taking in a presentation or two from this trained butler will serve you well.

The Electrolux ICON Cooking Corner features top of the line gear for your outdoor kitchen. Watch live cooking demonstrations in this area designed to look like your backyard complete with a deck, outdoor kitchen, inviting landscaping and a soothing water feature.
Support the Atlanta Community Food Bank! Bring a non-perishable food item to the Garden & Patio Show and be entered into a drawing for an Electrolux ICON 51" grill*

Mad Dog & Merrill, “America’s Grilling Buddies,” are a couple of crazy dudes who want nothing more than to make everyone a better griller. By traveling around the country, writing books, and making videos, they have helped thousands of backyard gourmets perfect their craft. Appearing all 4 days at the Electrolux ICON Cooking Corner!
Kids’ activities Saturday! Even the little ones have something to learn at the Garden & Patio Show. Join the Young Chefs Academy for live cooking demonstrations, a special session on etiquette for children by John Bourdage and the DIY Diva “Little Diva” presentation. Saturday is fun for the whole family!

Take a gander at the SEE-THRU HOUSE! If you ever wondered what’s really going bang, screech, and hiss in your house, find out! An innovative approach to explaining how a house works from its structure to its systems, this show-stopper exhibit will enlighten consumers about the integration of a home’s components as a true representation of how a home is built…from the inside out.

Renovationships - building a better client/contractor experience. Don't miss Heather Blank she she delves into the renovation process, offering tips on how to better manager relationships with contractors on your home improvement projects.
Enter to Win a LawnBott from KA Home Robotics and never cut your grass again!
Heirloom seeds are living antiques handed down from one generation to the next. Join Lynn Coulter as she describes how to grow and share treasured plants like “Painted Lady” sweet peas, butterfly-friendly “Lilliput” zinnias, and velvety-purple “Grandpa Ott’s” morning glories.
Become a member of The State Botanical Garden of Georgia and receive $5 off admission to the show.

Joe Lamp'l, a.k.a joe gardener, always on the cutting edge of what's hot and not in gardening, explores the latest trends you'll want to know about today. What's in and what's out doesn't apply only to fashion. Outdoor living has its trends also and they can change as fast as the weather.

Wake up your garden at night! Learn all about creating a unique evening theme in your gardens and landscaping with registered landscape architect Eric King.
Gardening basics for the DIY Diva! If you would like to take up gardening, but don't know where to start - this workshop is for you. Don't miss Saturday's Little Diva workshop on container gardening.

Crowd favorites Walter Reeves and Dave Baker of WSB AM broadcast live from the show Saturday morning beginning at 6 a.m.

Joe Washington of HGTV’s Ground Breakers takes you through the basic steps of planning your project, hiring a designer and contractor and moving forward with knowledge that can help avoid many of the common pitfalls.

Street of Dreams Atlanta 2007

2007-01-21T16:58:00.000-08:00

Tour ten remarkable show homes situated in Tributary at New Manchester, a 1,475-acre master planned community in Douglasville. Constructed by 10 of Atlanta’s most accomplished custom builders, the show homes will be totally furnished and accessorized by leading interior designers. The homes will showcase the latest trends in residential construction, interior design, architecture, technology, and landscaping. The homes will range from 2,200 to 8,000 square feet in size and be priced up to $1.5 Mil +. This will be the widest range of home sizes and prices ever included in a Street of Dreams, and should have broad appeal to show attendees. Over 40,000 visitors are expected to tour the show homes during the promotion’s six-week run.

WHERE: Tributary at New Manchester - Douglasville

Tributary is a new community with a small town atmosphere and a variety of housing and neighborhood choices across a wide price range. It offers a surprising array of nature activities, including walking, mountain biking, fly fishing, kayaking and even camping. Tributary is located next to Sweetwater Creek State Park, a 2,500-acre nature preserve along the Chattahoochee River just 20 minutes to downtown Atlanta, the airport, and the Vinings/Galleria area.

WHEN: May 19th – July 1st, 2007 (Open Wednesday through Sunday.)

Builders

GEM Homes, LLC
Haven Properties, Inc.
Callaway Homes, LLC
David Weekley Homes
Capstone Partners, Inc.
Summit Homes Construction, LLC
Mirage Homes, LLC
O’Dwyer Homes
Hillcrest Homebuilders, Inc.
Touchstone Homes, Inc.

PRODUCER: Street of Dreams, Inc.

As the largest producer of luxury home shows in the U.S., Street of Dreams, Inc. has produced over 80 of its trademarked Street of Dreams shows in premier developments across North America. Street of Dreams events are extremely popular with participants and the visiting public. Over 3 million people have attended Street of Dreams, Inc.-produced shows.

For more information call:
Street of Dreams, Inc. - (425) 483-0253

Electric Mattress Pads with a Brain

2007-01-21T07:00:00.000-08:00

Electric Mattress Pads provide soothing warmth from underneath. Now Sunbeam has a smart mattress pad that keeps you cozy and comfortable -- even when you turn down your thermostat at night to lower your heating bill. The Sunbeam Just Right Comfort® with ThermoFine® technology constantly senses and adjusts to your body and room temperature to deliver personalized warmth and comfort. Provides 25% better heating performance than older Sunbeam warming mattress pads.

Microsensor-controlled heating eliminates the need for high heat levels. The system delivers just enough heat to protect your body from excessive heat loss.

NOTE: Unlike a regular heating pad, the Sunbeam mattress pad does not feel hot when you touch it. What you will feel is a comfortable temperature, not too warm, not too cool, all night long.

Sunbeam Warming Mattress Pads actually self-adjust based on the room temperature, so you don't have to change your control setting as the room temperature changes. Because the wires are closer together at the foot end of the mattress pad than they are at the top, you stay comfortable all over. These pads are much more comfortable than the old electric blanket. With warmth from beneath and a light comforter on top you stay comfortable and an feel more refreshed after a night's sleep.

Electric Mattress Pads are not recommended for use on mechanical beds or by persons insensitive to heat.

Candles and Coffee from Georgia

2007-01-15T17:11:00.000-08:00

Don’t miss Southern Accents’ new web site at http://www.candlesandcoffee.com/. You can buy your Honey a pretty candle for a smart gift, but most importantly you can grab yourself a few cans of Jittery Joe’s coffee. Jittery Joe’s coffee is roasted right here in Athens, Georgia, home of the UGA Georgia Bulldogs (Bull Dawgs). Most coffee drinkers will like the House Blend or the Traveling Joe, but if you want a little kick, try the Kenya AA or the Costa Rica Tarrazu. Nancy and Jeff Hunt, owners of Southern Accents in Elberton, Georgia have taken time to bring it to you on-line so lets give them a little support and order a few things on-line or give them a call toll free at 1-877-283-6527 and tell them you saw it here first on the Old Deer Hunters.