Home Related Questions and Answers: 2012

Monday, December 31, 2012

Bad smell from new furniture in nursery-how do i get it out?

Q. About 2 months ago my husband and i bought a crib and dresser combo for our baby who is due in about 2 weeks. Got it home and out of the boxes and it smells bad. I cant explain the smell. It doesnt smell like hard wood, its more like a chemical-ish odor from the finish or laquer it has on it. It's making all of his cloths in his dresser small the same way. It's really annoying to me. I feel like ill be putting him in a room full of fumes. Anyone have any idea HOW i can get rid of the smell naturally? I have heard of taking it out in the sun everyday over long period of time to let it breath out and get the fumes out but is that the only way. I dont have alot of time really.
By the way, this isnt a smell that would be easily covered up. Its not one of those- dog pissed on the carpet type of thing- and its hard wood so if i spray something like air freshener it doesnt work.. but thanks

A. I would open the windows in the nursery to air it out. Point an oscillating fan on them as well w/the drawers open (remove the clothes so they don't absorb the scent-give them a wash if they don't air out on their own in a few days). If you have a ceiling fan, turn that on too. The air circulation will help get the smell out quicker than anything else. If you are running your air condition, close the door to keep it out of the rest of your home. This isn't exactly energy efficient, but it's the easiest. The 12 week waiting period for a new crib won't be helpful to because the new one will have similar issues, unless you get a wrought iron crib-but those have their own issues (significant cost, danger of getting hurt on bars, etc).

Volatile compounds (VOCs) used in staining products tend to take longer to dry/cure especially when they are in oil based products. (Also why people shouldn't use oil based paints to paint interior spaces if they are sensitive to smells.)

I assume that you have allowed the mattress to air out also. Most mattresses have a smell to them as well. This also goes for newly installed carpets.

If you plan on using a bassinet/pack-n-play w/included bassinet then, I suggest using that (not in the childs room) in the interim. Your momma super smeller is working, which is a good thing in this case. When you can no longer smell the "new" smell, it will be safe to put baby in the crib.

Congratulations! I hope you have an easy delivery with your son. Btw, I found out w/mine that when they say "bouncing baby boy", they mean when he gets old enough to start bouncing on furniture or whenever they get excited about something :-)

How do you keep your home smelling good?

Q. I am always going into homes where everything smells so fresh and even sweet, what do you use to keep your home and linen smelling so good and long lasting?

A. Dryer sheets, lysol, and carpet powder are your best friends. Potpourri and candles do good to mask the smell, but that's not what you want. It's artificial. It's nice for a scent, but it's not a clean smell, really.

After cleaning, sprinkle some scented carpet powder on the floor and let it set for a couple of minutes, then vacuum it up. The scent remaining is very faint and fresh. Put a dryer sheet between your linen to keep them fresh smelling. You can also stick a bar of soap or dryer sheet in your closets to keep them fresh smelling. You can even rub a dryer sheet over your furniture (test it first) to give a nice scent AND reduce any static cling. Dryer sheets also clean and de-static-ify (LOL) tv and computer screens. AAAANNNDDD you can put a dryer sheet wedged or taped into an air conditioning vent in every room to spread the fresh scent around. No one will even know it's there.

What is the best vaccum or comercial vac for big home?

Q. I have a 3500sqft. home. We need a new vaccum the one we have is not doing it. We have a Hoover windtunnel. It does not perform well even when maintained. I have had a dyson in past and don't like the suction on that either. I would love a commercial vac with the best suction. Please help I have shaft carpet, hardwood, tile and stairs.

A. Print this articleDyson DC14 All-Floors Cyclone Upright
The Dyson DC14 All-Floors Cyclone Upright Vacuum Cleaner is designed for use on all surfaces. It features a motorized brush bar that when activated removes dirt and pet hair from carpets. This function can be switched off to protect fine rugs or delicate flooring surfaces. The vacuum cleaner uses Dyson's Root Cyclone technology to ensure that there is no loss of suction. The Cyclone has a long telescopic wand to clean areas that are hard to reach. Dyson upright vacuums are certified asthma friendly by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation.

Electrolux EL 7020B Oxy3 Ultra Canister
The Electrolux EL 7020B Oxy3 Ultra Canister Vacuum cleans traditional carpeted, hardwood and laminate flooring. The vacuum cleaner features a Beta power head option that increases power on carpets. The Optimal light informs the user about the performance level of the Oxy3 Canister. Electrolux guarantees that the Oxy3 captures 99.97 percent of the dust, allergens and small particles in a home. A simple cord rewind function at the touch of a button is a user-friendly addition.

produtools.comHoover 5507-900 Elite Rewind Upright Bagless
The Hoover 5507-900 Elite Rewind Upright Bagless vacuum cleaner is powered by a 12-amp motor. A lifetime HEPA filter is included, and a light indicates when it requires cleaning. The vacuum cleaner covers all surfaces and cleans wide strips. The vacuum features a headlight and furniture guard. Each Hoover vacuum includes a pet-hair removal tool, a dusting brush and an upholstery tool.

Kenmore Progressive 36932 Upright
The Kenmore Progressive 36932 Upright Vacuum Cleaner is bagless and designed to clean many surfaces, such as carpets, bare floors and rugs. The vacuum cleaner features a rotating brush roll that moves the vacuum across the floor. It also works well with tools, which are necessary when cleaning stairs, drapes and upholstery. Another feature is the Inteli-Clean lights, which change color to indicate when an area is completely clean.

What is the coolest bedroom ever?

Q. teen bedroom. picture please?

A. Something that reflects you. For example: if your spunky or loud then pick bright colors like green,light blue or purple. Here are some pics:
http://www.cool-kid-bedrooms.com/images/goalloutbedding.jpg

http://www.bamboo-blinds.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/teen-window-treatment.jpg

http://www.homevisions.com/lycosimages/50375_f.jpg

http://www.housebeautiful.com/cm/housebeautiful/images/7-ship-bedroom-dec0707_xlg.jpg

I hope it helps! If you look up Teen Bedrooms on Google that might help. Good luck =)

What are some ideas for redoing a teen girls bedroom?

Q. I want to redo my bedroom and i love the color blue. I can't find the color blue paint i want though.. Where is the best place to get bright blue paint. I was thinking of having a black and white bed spread. Have any other ideas? please help. I also wanted to add sparkles to the paint as well. Here are some pictures with the color blues i like. Please help.

http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://hgtv.sndimg.com/HGTV/2010/05/14/HSTAR5_Hampton-blue-black-white-bedroom_s4x3_lg.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.hgtv.com/decorating/colorful-teen-bedrooms/pictures/page-5.html&usg=__-a_wP5s5BLzi1ujPMpUwZKITM9s=&h=462&w=616&sz=68&hl=en&start=46&zoom=1&tbnid=Qimb8EGHKWiwNM:&tbnh=136&tbnw=199&ei=Euz7TYG0NoqftweE7py8Dg&prev=/search%3Fq%3Dblack%2Band%2Bwhite%2Bteen%2Bbed%2Brooms%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26biw%3D1041%26bih%3D469%26tbm%3Disch&um=1&itbs=1&iact=hc&vpx=563&vpy=139&dur=1575&hovh=194&hovw=259&tx=150&ty=137&page=6&ndsp=9&ved=1t:429,r:2,s:46&biw=1041&bih=469

http://www.home-designing.com/2009/03/teen-room-design-set-6-random

Please add pictures if possible:)

A. Movie theme pillows, bedsheets and table cloths.

where can i go to look for new cute teen bedrooms?

Q. I get really bored sometimes and i LOVE looking at teen bedrooms. So if you could give me a website i would love that!

A. well, i got a room ''makeover''!
walmart and target r gud places to look and some ideas can based off of youtube.
walmart has good comforters and target has good accesories.
hoped we all helped:)

Does your 4th house accurately describe your home or room?

Q. I know what the 4th house is. I'd like to know if you've found your 4th house, and what's in it, aspects to it, to accurate describe your home, apartment, room, or whatever you call home. What can be called a reflection of your decisions and tastes, does it parallel what the 4th says about you?

A. 4th house is capricorn...
i guess maybe? i like deep colours, vintage furniture, art prints.

Can you use a thick heavy curtain for a home theater room?

Q. - If I wanted to divide my home theater room from another room without drywall, could I use a thick heavy curtain?

A. You could, but it won't do much in terms of cutting down the noise from the Home Theater system. Curtains, even heavy ones, are limited bandwidth absorbers. In other words, they absorb sounds over a very limited range of frequencies. A dividing wall, particularly a wall that is properly constructed to stop noise, is far more effective.

There is one other effect that may happen. By treating one side of the room, you will throw the tonal balance way off (typically, only the front wall of a theater should be fully covered with acoustic absorption). Things may seem to be shifted to one side if the wall is a side wall. Also, you may dull the sound by putting too much absorption on a side or back wall. Your surrounds may also not work correctly if they are dipoles which depend on sound bouncing off the walls to create an immersive rear channel surround effect.

What should i wear to introduce myself to my 7th grade teacher?

Q. I REALLY need to impress my home room teacher for 7th grade. What should i wear? Oh this may be important to your answer- She is a coach! Please help any ideas are welcome clothes hair and shoes!!! Thanks in advance!

A. Just go in there and BE YOURSELF! She is not going to care wait you are wearing. Just don't wear ripped jeans or anything inappropriate. Jeans and a nice shirt should work just fine.

Any good home decorating contests worth entering?

Q. Anyone know of any good home decorating contests I can enter? I'd like to redecorate my bedroom in my home. Maybe one in which they come in and redecorate for you, but any will do.

A. An obvious one is hgtv. I think they are currently launching a dream home give away contest. Although, I think that's a little different than what you mean. However, here's the link:

http://www.hgtv.com/hgtv/dream_home_2008/text/0,,HGTV_30596_65579,00.html

You could also try a site called Furniture for Small Spaces. They're doing a small contest for people who have small bedrooms. The rewards are much smaller but the chance of winning is much greater and it might be fun to enter:

http://contest.furniture-for-small-spaces.com

If those aren't enough, you could also try contest directories. They usually have a section for the home which might list other contests.

I hope that helped!

How can I get on a home decorating TV show?

Q. I live in N.H. and recently bought a condo. I would love to get on a home decorating show. Does anyone have any suggestions on how I can get on one, and does anyone have any suggestions for which one? Thanks!

A. i would suggest trading spaces (if you have any friends that could use the same decorating help) or perhaps design on a dime? go to hgtv.com or tlc.com and find some shows..sign up for one, and post pictures of your rooms and things...that should get some things going...

How do you get started in home decorating?

Q. I want to help someone in home decorating or weding planning, any suggestions?

A. Examples of your work help. Do something with your place(you got to start someplace) for no one wants to be the guinea pig... to make it"cool" and then invite friends over for "tea" so they can see your handiwork. Maybe they know somebody who knows somebody. Word of mouth works the best.

What do I need to get started painting?

Q. I want to paint some canvas pictures to hang in my childs bedroom. What do I need and what is the best kind of paint to use?

A. This sounds like a great idea. If you've never painted before, these are some of the supplies you'll probably need:

- Paint. I agree with the previous poster that acrylic is best for the sort of thing you've described... It dries much faster and there's no toxic fumes or paint thinner to deal with. If you aren't sure of the colors you'll be using, you can mix pretty much anything with black, white, the primary colors, and burnt sienna. Good starter brands are Golden, the Utrecht brand, and (sometimes) Windsor Newton.

- A tray. Paper plates work fine, or a plastic cutting board if you want something reusable.

- Brushes. A good starting collection would be a medium-sized round brush, a small round brush for detail, and a larger square brush for blocking and washes.

- Extras like acrylic medium to thin paint and slow drying, pallet knives if you're mixing larger quantities, and a script liner brush for very fine detail could also be helpful.

There are tons of great books and websites out there to help you figure out where to start the actual painting process, but these are the basic materials you'll need. Good luck!

What's the normal length for Window Valance to fit most Windows?

Q. How many do you need to buy in order to cover two windows in your childs bedroom?

A. The size of the valance should be printed on the package. Measure the window and add a couple of inches on each side to find out the minimum size you need. You should only have to buy one per window, unless the windows are inordinately large.
Windows vary a lot in size, so there are several "standard" sizes. If in doubt, buy the larger one and you can bunch it up on the drapery rod.

how can I make a window blind for a child's bedroom with my own vinyl sheet?

Q. I have a long vinyl advertisement poster that I want to use to make a blind to match the theme of my child's bedroom. I don't know how to construct it.

A. Try these websites:
http://www.hutchal.clara.net/curtains/blindindex.htm
http://www.alternative-windows.com/blindindex.htm
http://www.homes-furnishing.com/blinds/index.html
Good Luck

how can I convert my home air condition system into solar energy?

Q. i want to convert the electrical system in my home air condition into solar energy. I have central air at this time.

A. Depending on your location, the size of your home and cooling capacity of your central A/C unit it might be hard to covert 100% of the power use of your central A/C to solar. Not to mention very expensive.

Now if you have a 2,500 sq-ft house and use a 3 ton standard A/C unit at 16 EER it could draw as much as 25amps at 220v you would need about 5.5KW of PV plus a large battery bank to handle surges at (start up, blower, ect.) 250w PV panels are about $1000 each and figure about 2x the PV costs for batteries, inverter, installation, wiring, ect. You can see how this gets expensive quickly.

Living in different part of the US may require even more PV panels. Plus, you will need to put the PV panels on a tracking system (a mount that tilts the panels to be perfect aligned with the sun's path) There are always cloudy days, so if the humidity is not too bad you can hopefully shut the A/C off and credit your electric bill by turning your electric meter backwards.

A better option might be to sell your central A/C and replace it with a heat pump system. A heat pump uses the ground temperature to cool and heat. It may seem more complex but is rather simple can be far less expensive than a full blown PV system. The heat pump can run 24/7 cooling or heating as needed and can provide 4 times the amount of energy they consumes.

Dept of Energy Heat Pump information
http://www.eere.energy.gov/consumer/your_home/space_heating_cooling/index.cfm/mytopic=12610

Hope that answers some of your questions!

Info on Solar energy in a home?

Q. Where can i find information about building a home that uses mostly solar energy? Are there websites for this?

A. Google search "solar builders" for a good start.

Can solar power really be cost effective in the near future?

Q. In the next year or two, Will consumers choose to power their homes with solar energy based on saving money alone?

A. Solar energy is definitely an alternative to wasteful and harmful burning of fossil fuels. Now I will admit solar panels used to produce energy is a bit costly but in the long run it pays for itself by cutting your energy bill dowm drastically

Sunday, December 30, 2012

What color should go with my bedroom furniture?

Q. I have all black bedroom furniture ( my husband picked it out lol ). I have no idea what color accents or b edding to get. Any suggestions?

A. Get lots white room accents (lamps, vases, clocks, etc) with a little colour in there like bright blue or scarlet (in the smaller accents like candles, etc). bedding should be simple if you have lots of colourful accessories, but if you stick with white try something crazy and multi-coloured! Paint the walls a colour that shows up in your bedding (but one that doesn't show up a lot).
Ikea is an excellent store to go to, great design and unbelievable prices. Almost any art museum will actually have nice stuff, too. Target is another good place.

What is the best, if any, way to sell my oak bedroom furniture, please read ?

Q. I have a beutiful set of oak bedroom furniture that i actually got for next to nothing but it is great. I don't know anything about the value of furniture, but now that I am 56, I am finding that things I have in my house are actually collectibles etc. I guess there is something good about being on the wrong side of 50 :) :) :) I bought it "used" in 1989 but it is like perfect and includes 2 night stands, big chester drawers with mirror and head for bed. ?? thanks for you furniture people I can help with children things and sewing :) and selling on ebay and of course jesus things

A. The sad part of having anything beautiful, like well-made furniture, is that many people can't or won't appreciate it. I found this to be true when an Appraiser came through an estate I was handling and put these ridiculously small values on some fine pieces of furniture. His answer was that there is a small market for "used" furniture; most young people today would rather go to a "Big Box" store and buy some "you-build-it" crap made out of particle board than spend a few dollars more and have something they can cherish for years.
You can certainly try selling the suite on eBay, but unless the set is really old, you may not find a buyer...
You may want to try placing an ad in the classifieds of your local paper, but that usually entails alot of unwarranted phone calls.
We have "consignment" shops in this area that will take in items like this, but, if you have a timely need for cash, you may have to wait a while before the set sells.
Auction houses are always looking for quality merchandise, but there again you have to be careful, as their costs may eat up a lot of your possible gain.
Word-of-mouth may be the easiest; letting people know at work, your place of worship, etc.
And then, there is always donation. You state that you got for "next to nothing", so if you're not looking to make a few bucks, need the space, and want to feel good about it, you can call a local charitable orgainzation. They could come pick it up for nothing and you get a decent tax write off.
Good luck....Like I said, nice pieces can be difficult to "get rid" of. I have two of my parents solid mahogany dressers that neither of my sons want, so I don't know where they will end up..........

How long does it usually take to get bedroom furniture? Do most stores have you "order" the furniture?

Q. I'm in the market for some new bedroom furniture. I'm not necessarily in a hurry to get it, but I am curious about how long I can expect the process to take. I plan on buying from a "showroom" type furniture store, as opposed to a warehouse or clearance center. Plus, I'm getting a king bed and I hear that most stores cater towards customers looking for queens. I guess I will have to "order" the furniture. If you ordered from a store like this, how long did it take?

Also, I did find one set that i like, but i was told they cant deliver for 7-8 weeks due to back order. Is that standard wait time or way too long?

A. If you really like the set and the price, then I guess it is worth the wait.

I had to wait that long to get the living room sofa I special ordered.

And my bed took even longer but then we had an artist make a special headboard.

Where is the best place online to purchase outdoor patio furniture?

Q. I am specifically looking for a complete outdoor furniture set that includes a sofa, loveseat, chairs, coffee table, etc. Most of the places I have found either do not sell direct, are expensive, or sell lower quality product than what I am looking for. Any suggestions?

A. hi there! so, you are looking for complete outdoor furniture set. I can suggest you the link below.

Take your time looking around and make sure you sit in the furniture and it is comfortable. We got new patio furniture last year and it took awhile to find a set we both found comfortable and attractive.

Where to Buy Nice, Affordable Outdoor FURNITURE in South Florida (Miramar) or Online?

Q. I am looking for a nice set of outdoor furniture to put around my pool. Preferably looking for a place to buy the furniture in Miramar, but willing to go anywhere in Dade or Broward County to purchase as well. My spending limit is set at $450. Thanks :)

A. Check out this site:
http://furniture.buy-stuff.us/Florida/Miramar

It has used furniture for sale in or near Miramar. You can buy and then pick up yourself.

Would a picnic blanket be considered as outdoor furniture?

Q. I am doing a furniture project and I am trying to find out if a picnic blanket would be considered a kind of outdoor furniture? I read online that furniture is the mass noun for the movable objects ('mobile' in Latin languages) intended to support various human activities such as seating and sleeping in beds, to hold objects at a convenient height for work using horizontal surfaces above the ground, or to store things.

A. A blanket is a 'soft furnishing' rather than 'furniture'.

does anybody know of a good home building company in southern california?

Q. i want to buy a home but it is not fully built, it still needs someone to finish building it, so does anybody know of a good home building company here in southern california? thanks!!!

A. Morrison Homes builds houses in So. Ca.

Where to begin the custom-home building process?

Q. Can someone point me to a good consumer-oriented website or offer advice on the steps toward getting a custom home built? My wife and I have a couple lots in mind, we're narrowing down a list of floor plans. We could use some guidance as far what tasks â and in what order â we should be planning for.

A. the process is going to be different for different areas. i would recommend going to amazon.com and buying a few books on how to be your own general contractor, and how to build your own home. (i have i think is called "building your own home on a shoe string") some go into more detail than others. but read a few and get aquainted with some of the terms and such. they will also go through the steps.
but here are the basic steps.
1) find /buy land. make sure it meets all of your requirements, and the local requirements for building. consider a perk test, septic planning, access roads, frontage, any minimum size requirements.
2) site planning. where is the septic located (or are you on town sewer and water). where is the house going, where is the well going (if not on town water) where is the electric going to come in from. and which way will the house be oriented (stake out the corners)
3) excavation and foundation (this will go off the plans that you have decided on) (be prepared for the unexpected, who knows what they will find when they dig)
4) framing
5) skinning (roof and exterior walls and maybe siding, windows) inside is now protected from the elements)
6) electric, plumbing, hvac
7) insulating
8) interior walls, floors, ceilings
9) appliances, painting, finish electrical and plubing fixtures.
10) final walkthrough, cleanup, touchup.

those are the basics

Home building industry price elasticity of demand elastic or inelastic?

Q. I have been searching for an explanation of what this even means and I cannot find anything that is helping me. Can someone please help me. I need to take the home building industry and focus on how it is affected by the economy. I also need to know if it is elastic or inelastic and what the price elasticity of supply for this industry is. I really appreciate any help I can get. Thanks!!!

A. Lets start with what the question means. Then you can apply it to the home building industry. In economics and business studies, the price elasticity of demand (PED) is an elasticity that measures the nature and degree of the relationship between changes in quantity demanded of a good and changes in its price.

For all normal goods and most inferior goods, a price drop results in an increase in the quantity demanded by consumers. The demand for a good is relatively inelastic when the quantity demanded does not change much with the price change. Goods and services for which no substitutes exist are generally inelastic. Demand for an antibiotic, for example, becomes highly inelastic when it alone can kill an infection resistant to all other antibiotics. Rather than die of an infection, patients will generally be willing to pay whatever is necessary to acquire enough of the antibiotic to kill the infection.

Inelastic demand is commonly associated with "necessities," although there are many more reasons a good or service may have inelastic demand other than the fact that consumers may "need" it. Demand for salt, for instance, at its modern levels of supply is highly inelastic not because it is a necessity but because it is such a small part of the household budget. (Technology has increased the supply of salt modernly and reduced its historically high price.) Demand for water, another necessity, is highly inelastic for similar supply side reasons. Demand for other goods, like chocolate, which is not a necessity, can be highly elastic.

Substitution serves as a much more reliable predictor of elasticity of demand than "necessity." For example, few substitutes for oil and gasoline exist, and as such, demand for these goods is relatively inelastic. However, products with a high elasticity usually have many substitutes. For example, potato chips are only one type of snack food out of many others, such as corn chips or crackers, and predictably, consumers have more room to turn to those substitutes if potato chips were to become more expensive.

It may be possible that quantity demanded for a good rises as its price rises, even under conventional economic assumptions of consumer rationality. Two such classes of goods are known as Giffen goods or Veblen goods. Another case is the price inflation during an economic bubble. Consumer perception plays an important role in explaining the demand for products in these categories. A starving musician who offers lessons at a bargain basement rate of $5.00 per hour will continue to starve, but if the musician were to raise the price to $35.00 per hour, consumers may perceive the musician's ability to charge higher prices for lessons as an indication of higher quality, thus increasing the quantity of lessons demanded.

PED is determined by a number of factors that essentially all fall under the umbrella of "choice". By choice we mean the power of choice that the consumer of a given good holds to give up the consumption of said good. The greater this choice the more price elastic the good will be and, by contrast, as the balance of this power falls in favour of the supplier the more inelastic the good will be. This is due to the consumer's "Perceived Value". A good which is difficult to replace or give up consuming will have a higher perceived value than that which is more easily replaced thus the consumer will be willing to pay more for such a good. Perceived Value represents the absolute maximum price a consumer is willing to pay for a good. When the price exceeds this level, the consumer will give up consumption of this good.

Availability of Good Quality Substitutes: Easily substitutable goods will enable buyers to switch to an alternative good and thus such goods will exhibit greater elasticity than goods that do not have substitutes available, ceteris paribus (assuming all other variables are equal). It is important to understand that a given good is in essence unique and thus the comparability of the available substitute(s) in terms of quality to the original good is an important sub-variable. The better the substitute(s) can replace the original good in terms of desirability, affordability, practicality etc. the more elastic the good will become. For example, a commuter taking the train to work could switch to taking the bus if faced with rising train fares. However, this may mean more inconvenience and/or longer journey time for example and thus will form part of his consideration before switching that mode of transport and it may take a certain price difference before he will resort to this option representing the substitute's quality. A contrasting inelastic good would be water which is arguably insubstitutable so a local community faced with rising water costs will be left with little choice but to pay the increased costs forming a price inelastic good.
Whether the good is habit forming or obligatory: Addictive drugs, whether psychologically addictive or physically addictive, and other goods where dependency plays a key role will naturally exhibit inelastic properties. At aggregate level, rising costs of such goods are unlikely to reduce demand significantly. Classic examples of such goods would be alcohol and tobacco or in an extreme case, heroin. A heroin addict will virtually go to any length to achieve the next fix irrespective of cost. Governments often place taxes on these types of goods, namely alcohol, tobacco and fuel because of their highly inelastic demand since consequently such goods are assured revenue generators for the treasury.
The proportion of the consumer's income the good represents: Goods which typically make up a small proportion of people's income will exhibit inelastic qualities. Conversely, goods which form a large proportion of people's income will cause greater responses in demand to comparable % increases or decreases in price. For example, if cinema ticket costs rise by 20%, decreases in demand are unlikely to be pronounced. However a 15% drop in a "luxury" good such as a car or LCD Television changes in demand are likely to be relatively greater.
How closely the good is defined: Taking our example from (2), cigarettes in general are, as discussed, an inelastic good. However a particular brand of cigarettes will exhibit far more elastic properties if its price rises. In general therefore, the exact type of good will affect its PED properties.
How closely the consumer (end-user) is defined?: This is an important factor intrinsically related to most of the preceding variables. "Choice" is very subjective and factors 1,2 and 3 vary relative to the individual consumer because every single consumer can potentially have a different Perceived Value of a good. A good that is easily replaceable or habit forming or expensive for one person may well not be for another and thus how well the consumer is defined will affect the PED. At nationwide level, if the cost of butter rises significantly consumers can choose to consume margarine instead but a shop who makes and sells butter cookies will not have this option and thus the PED will be far more inelastic in the latter case. A driver faced with rising petrol bills may opt to switch to using the train. However an airline company has no choice but to absorb rising fuel costs and will according have a much more inelastic demand curve for essentially the same good.
How closely the time period is defined: Generally the greater the time period, the more possible it may be for a good to be replaced with a substitute. Using home energy as an example, a gas user faced with rising gas bills will unlikely be able to switch to electric alternatives overnight due to possibly contractual tie-ins and time needed to change a stove to electric hob for example. However over three months, a switch is far more viable and the PED will be accordingly more elastic. Likewise, prices are dynamic. Over short time periods, prices of substitutes maybe static, over longer periods, the price of substitutes may drop, making them more appealing. [Puiatti, 18:36 10-Nov-07]

Various research methods are used to calculate price elasticity:

Test markets
Analysis of historical sales data
Conjoint analysis
When the price elasticity of demand for a good is inelastic (|Ed| < 1), the percentage change in quantity demanded is smaller than that in price. Hence, when the price is raised, the total revenue of producers rises, and vice versa.

When the price elasticity of demand for a good is elastic (|Ed| > 1), the percentage change in quantity demanded is greater than that in price. Hence, when the price is raised, the total revenue of producers falls, and vice versa.

When the price elasticity of demand for a good is unit elastic (or unitary elastic) (|Ed| = 1), the percentage change in quantity is equal to that in price.

When the price elasticity of demand for a good is perfectly elastic (Ed is undefined), any increase in the price, no matter how small, will cause demand for the good to drop to zero. Hence, when the price is raised, the total revenue of producers falls to zero. The demand curve is a horizontal straight line. A banknote is the classic example of a perfectly elastic good; nobody would pay Â£10.01 for a Â£10 note, yet everyone will pay Â£9.99 for it.

When the price elasticity of demand for a good is perfectly inelastic (Ed = 0), changes in the price do not affect the quantity demanded for the good. The demand curve is a vertical straight line; this violates the law of demand. An example of a perfectly inelastic good is a human heart for someone who needs a transplant; neither increases nor decreases in price affect the quantity demanded (no matter what the price, a person will pay for one heart but only one; nobody would buy more than the exact amount of hearts demanded, no matter how

What is the easiest home design software to use?

Q. My 12 yr old son wants to be an arcitect and we have played around with some of the less expensive ($9.99) home design software, but they seem a little hard to get started with. Anyone know if a very simple one to purchase? We were thinking of the Better Homes & Gardens series, maybe find one on e-bay..

A. Google SketchUp is free. If your 12yo is anything like my 10yo he should be able to become proficient at that pretty quickly. My son goofs around with my AutoCAD which is NOT inexpensive nor would I have thought it easy, (considering what I charge for drafting)!
You can get it here.....

http://www.sketchup.com/

is there an inexpensive or free home design software out there for a normal homeowner?

Q. its just that I want to play around with some home design ideas with my house for a small addition, & I need some kind of basic program to use. Thanks!

A. I know they can be hard to find. I think Lowes has one on their website, I used it for a kitchen once, but it takes some patience. I have always done my design ideas in The Sims 2, because it is much more user friendly and quick. I never really get around to playing the actual game though. The only problem with this is sometimes the location of things isn't exactly where you want it, but it's a good way to get the idea of what you want to do.

what is the difference between interior design and professional home design?

Q. i am interested in becoming an architect. i know what kind of architecture i want to be. but i dont know what its call. i just want to draw a single homes w/ rooms, bathroom, living room and ext from foundation up. what is it call? interior design or professional home design?

A. That is called an architect.
An interior designer is a licensed professional (as is architect) who is the type of person who helps out on the show trading spaces. They "design interiors." They will usually be knowledgeable in fabric, color, material, and geometric organization.
A professional home designer is usually a person who is not licensed or registered and draws up house plans. They call themself home designer because they are not licensed and not allowed to use architect.
An architect is a registered professional licensed to practice architecture and design buildings (including homes)

What other materials can I use as a bathroom countertop besides the expensive granite?

Q. I am updating my bathroom. Granite countertops are so expensive. I have looked into using a wood slab or glass. Any other cost saving solutions out there?

A. Formica is relatively inexpensive. Swanstone or Corian would be somewhere between granite and Formica.

Does a cultured marble bathroom countertop fall under the category of "engineered stone?"?

Q. I'm remodeling a bathroom. The contracter specified cultured marble. I see that Consumer Reports gives engineered stone the highest rating for bathroom countertops. So is what I'm getting an engineered stone, or not?

A. David B is 99.9% rt. Cultured marble is a marble dust poured together w/ resins and epoxies to form a solid surface( so you have a 'stone" in it lol), very durable but not an engineered stone as your thinking. GL

What is the best way to remove latex-based paint from granite countertops?

Q. Our contractors did a shotty job of painting and left drops of paint on both our bathroom countertops. Is there an easy way to remove this without using paint thinner since this will probably soak into the granite and eventually ruin it?

A. mineral oil and a razor blabe scraper

What would I need to build a tall pet gate for blocking livingroom from hallway?

Q. What would I need to build a tall pet gate for blocking livingroom from hallway. My dogs love to see visitorsbut they jump all over them. So I want to build a tall pet gate to block the livingroom for when visitors do come. I am no DIY'er but I want my guests to feel welcome without the slobber and being malested by my dogs. :-)

A. Unless they are larger dogs maybe a pet gate would be suitable, and a lot less trouble and cheaper as well. http://www.overstock.com/Pet-Supplies/Carlson-Lil-Tuffy-Expandable-Pet-Gate/5156686/product.html Good Luck

What paint colour will look best with my livingroom furniture?

Q. I am trying to decide what color to paint my livingroom. I have a black leather couch & love seat, dark walnut floors and teak coffee table. What paint colors will compliments my furniture and floors?

A. I'd like to give you a different idea. On one of the walls in your living room, place a mirror with a kind of designed grill in front like in this picture - http://www.luxuryfurnitureandlighting.com/furniture_images/living/deco/Y02%20sofa-1.jpg

Or paint the walls a light grey colour. see this - http://www.3dm3.com/forum/attachments/f48/14067d1200848748-living-room-interieur.jpg

Since you have dark colour in you living room, try to balance it by painting the walls a very faint yellow or off-white. Or one main red wall and the rest beige colour could also work. You decide. :)

What color should we paint our livingroom?

Q. My husband just painted our diningroom "Sesame", and the livingroom flows into that room, so they need to coordinate. "Sesame" is a bright cream color. Thanks for your opinions.

A. in my house the formal liveing room is sesame hen our living room is burgandy and olive green furniture. it's sort of an italian them. ;D

Saturday, December 29, 2012

What kind of bedding is good to use for my rabbit?

Q. I got a rabbit and we are moving him outside. I use care fresh bedding now but would like to change it to something more cheaper and better for outside. If you can please include specific details on how to use this bedding or where to get it from. All information is helpful.

A. I use to use straw with ASPEN bedding underneath which is dust free with no harmful chemicals like pine and cedar have. But now my bunny is inside so he has fleece :D But you can use fleece outside too if he is litter trained.

What is the best bedding for dwarf hamsters?

Q. I have tried a few different kinds of bedding, but I am not sure what is the best.
I have also heard that cedar and pine shavings are bad for their lungs.
Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

A. Eco bedding is a shredded paper bedding that lasts longer than just regular shredded paper. They like to tunnel through it too. I use it for my hamsters and gerbils.

What type of bedding do you like best for hamsters?

Q. Has anyone tried the shaved pine for hamster bedding? I found some but it looks like pine dust instead of shavings? What do you think?

A. i don't understand why people are getting thumbs down on the use of cedar and pine, some people like to argue "oh, it has never hurt my hamsters, and its fine for you too!" this is completely wrong, cedar and pine releases toxins into the air when urinated on, and over time cause respiratory problems, and if long enough, death, its so sad but its so preventable, you should never purchase cedar or pine wood shavings or dust, any type of dust shouldnât be used because it gets in the hamsterâs eyes, and can cause repiratory problems

the ONLY wood shavings you should be using are aspen wood shavings, they are safe for the hammy, and absorb odor fairly well, its also fairly cheap, the only downside to this is that sometimes there can be a particularly sharp piece, and can cause cuts on your hammyâs feet =\

my favorite type of bedding by far is carefresh, it is the best as absorbing smell, making a soft bed, and it comes in bigger pieces so it wonât get kicked out of the wire cage as much as other bedding will, the only downside is that it can be a tad expensive, but its really worth it

yesterdayâs news is also a very good bedding, it is made of recycled newspaper, it is soft, absorbent, and has other good characteristics like carefresh, downside being that it isnât as widely available as carefresh is, and i have yet to find it in a pet store near me

timothy hay is another bedding widely used, its probably the cheapest bedding to buy, but I personally donât like timothy hay, it doesnât help with smell, it is ALWAYS getting kicked out of the cage, and the sharp edges of the hay can cut the hamsters feet

there are also pellet forms of bedding, I have never used this kind, but its fairly inexpensive, plus it is very good at absorbing odors, the only thing i can think about it that would be bad, is it probably would get kicked out the cage constantly because of its small size

oh btw, donât use newspaper either, the ink on the paper is bad for the hamsters if they ingest it, some hamsters donât have a problem, but most die from ink poisoning, so donât run the risk with your hamster and donât use newspaper

EDIT: THANK YOU hamsterzgurl for just copying my answer, thats really mature, and is against the rules

What shall I do If my security light comes on in my chevy impala?

Q. Im having a passlock problem in my 2002 chevy impala. The security light blinks on and the car wont start. I have to wait like 10 minutes before it resets itself. The dealor says it cost 600.00 to fix and no one else would touch it. Ive called around. Is there an easier way out of this?

A. all chevrolets have this problem, even mine. this summer i found out what my problem was. first the light blinks then, my tahoe woulg turn off while i applied the break peddle. killing all power to vehicle.
chevrolrt dealer told me same thing $600 to fix.

i thought the all\arm system was holding it off, on anti-thift, cause i could hear the alarm box making clicking sounds

the problem with mine was a loose positive battery post.
even tho the post was tight, just wasn't tight enough'
post was tight into the battery, but loose between both cables that hooked to the positive pose, not much just enough to cause problems.

what i did was put a lock washer between both cables, and installed cables in a v shape from bottom looking up.

havent had the problem again.

around here, i know at least 7 people with same problem

give it a try, before spending $600

Does a security light coming on have anything to do with a car not starting?

Q. I noticed a security light coming in on my dashboard the other day. After about two days my car wouldn't start. I changed the battery and put on a new one. The car still don't start at all. No engine sound either. (2003 Oldsmobile Alero) I think it is the starter.
It didn't make a sound. It didn't even click. The lights came on the dash. No engine sound at all.

A. Read your owner's manual if it's a factory installed alarm system. If it was installed by yourself, or a previous owner, call a tow. It seems as though your car thought it was being tampered with...it has shut down your ignition system to keep it from being stolen. You need to find out how to reset the system...some cars have a button under the dash that you press while turning the key to 'start', some can be reset with the key fob.Maybe your car used to have an alarm system, and it stopped working properly, and the previous owner got rid of the key fob, but not the rest of the system. Either way, I would bet that there is an alarm system that has shut the car down.

The Service 4WD and Security light comes on in my 99 GMC Sierra?

Q. The security light only comes on while I'm driing from time to time, and the Service 4WD happens more often. I have recently had work done on the transfer case and the diff, so what could be the problem with these lights?

A. take it and have the computer scanned on it to see if it will give any trouble codes,that and have it put on a lift they might have left a wiring harness loose on it,that shouldn't cause the security light to come on though,have it scanned and see what codes come up on it,then go from their with it,good luck.

How do you get grout coloring off the surface of terra cotta (clay)tiles?

Q. Contractor used grout in terra cotta tile installation between the tile. He left grout marks on the tile surfaces. Ordinary washing and wiping doesnt get them out. Tile is made of clay,not stone or ceramics. They make them by baking the clay in ovens on trays, then cut them when they coll.How do you get those stain marks from grout out?

A. == it will eventually fade and wear off ... get the contractor to fix his over grout ... the porous clay tile has been used for years and the grout should scrub up with soap and water and a stiff plastic brush ...

how much should I pay for getting my 900-square foot apt painted and the floors tiled?

Q. Hello,
Does anyone know how much it would normally cost to get a 900 square foot apartment to be painted? I also need tile installation for the floors,i am looking not for a very high quality paint,just decent work and inexpensive tiles on the floor. I will rent this apartment, that is why i need to watch my cost. Thank you everyone for the answers
Have a nice day
S.

A. where ?

what is the best way to level a rough concrete floor and prepare?

Q. it for tile installation?

A. Depends on the type of tile... if you're using a Vinyl Tile... you will need to purchase some Leveling compounds... The best to purchase is either Ardex or Armstrong (these are both Cement based and are very hard once they dry)... this comes as a grey powder... add water and 'float' out the bad spots in the floor... (you want to skim over all of the bad places... and work the floor patch slowly up in the low spots).... for high spots in the concrete... you can still float around them... try to take the ridge out of it (as much as possible)...
Good luck... ;)

Is it possible home map in 3ds max with full description? so as we do in Autocad?

Q. we wanna make a map (home map like architecture make in autocad). i know 3ds max, but i don't know how to made map in 3ds max 9 please help.

A. Sure why not.
p.s. We're not sure what your question is

Regarding organizational architecture, why has tipping emerged as a way to compensate waiters?

Q. In terms of the organizational architecture, there seems to be three aspects of it, decision rights, rewarding individuals, and evaluating their performance. I am having troubling applying this concept to compensating waiters. I would think that it has emerged to allow customers to measure and evaluate a waiter's performance and service, while providing them with an incentive...but I am not sure.

A. I am not quite sure myself but I used to waitress and tips are highly appreciated. Most waiters and waitresses only make $2.13/hr. and by law that is all they can make hourly. This leaves them to rely on tips to survive. I think that only the customer can decide what kind of service they got from a waiter/waitress and it is basically been left up to them to decide what they earned for their time. I think it is supposed to motivate the waitress/waiter to do her best with each customer as to earn the most for her time. However there are flaws. There are always flaws. 1) Some waitresses/waiters just don't care. I have seen servers that still just don't put in the effort and only do the minimal to get through their day. I have seen some that just treat the customer like dirt. 2) The customer is NOT always right. I have seen customers that got excellent service and either don't have the cash or are cheap and obviously did not tip the right amount for the service they recieved. Now if you don't have the cash, I personally think you shouldn't be going out to eat. If you are cheap, don't go to a place where you have to tip. Some customers are just rude, leaving a penny is a sure fire way to quickly anger a server especially if they gave great service. Now I am not sure what works for you, but as for myself and being a waitress in the past, I choose to tip 25-30% Most people tip under 10% and the people that do tip the norm of 15% are great but most servers bust their butts for minimal money. I tip 25% for good service and 30% for great service. I have tipped 100% for flawless service before too. It really is up to you what you decide to tip and if you decide to tip. Just take in to consideration a few things the next time you get waited on. Are they friendly? polite? helpful? knowledgable? timely? do they refill your drinks? take your empty plates out of your way? and just all around make sure you have everything you need? Because our job as a server is to basically pamper the customer while they are out from their home whether it is a low-priced diner or an expensive well known restaurant. I hope this helps. Take care and enjoy your dining experience.

How is a recycled home better than building a brand new one?

Q. There's a company in the city I live in that takes pre-existing homes and move them onto empty lots. These homes would otherwise be destroyed, where they would take at least 300 years, recycling into our environment in a negative way, polluting the atmosphere and everything else. The problem I'm having is that I need to think of why a recycled home is better than building one from scratch, or moving into one through real estate without sounding like I'm Miss America or something...

A. Some of the older building materials and craftsmanship are superior to today's. Each individual house differs.

Perhaps you might find the architecture or the footprint ( layout ) of the house appealing.

Also, I would investigate the cost. A recycled home might be significantly cheaper than new.

Where do I buy wood to build a catapult?

Q. I want to make a catapult out of wood. Where can I find a store that sells wood for building around California. I live around Los Angeles. Also it would be helpful from people who had experience mention what type of wood would be best suited for building a catapult, budget wise also.

A. I would go to a local hardware store and tell them what you are building and let them assist you in deciding what materials to use. Also, do you have some printed blueprints for it or are you trying to design it yourself? If you have blueprints, maybe the designer of the plan should recommend what materials to use.

What type of company would you call to repair the outside wood area of your chimney?

Q. When it rains, the guttering spills over and down the wood built around the chimney...yes, i know the gutters need repaired, but i'm looking at the wood part for now.

A. Just about anyone with carpentry skills. Your safest bet is to contact a reputable remodeler in your area. Ask your friends and neighbors. There are, also,a lot of great carpenters who are not as easy to find as bigger name contractors who usually can be less expensive due to lower overhead. ALWAYS get references and CHECK THEM no matter who you hire.

I need help removing an oil stain from wood?

Q. My daughter was playing with a reed diffuser at my Mother's house and marred a wood built-in with oil rings. Short of sanding and refinishing, is there anything I can do?
Here's a link to what a reed diffusor is:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reed_diffuser
Thanks in advance for your help!

A. Much depends on the type of oil that stained the furniture, ie mint oil, or jasmine, or whatever.

Much depends on the type of finish and the age of it.

Maybe the store that sold you the oils and the diffuser may have an idea.

Maybe a local furniture refinishing outlet might have an idea.

Maybe a local chemistry department at a local college might have an idea.

The main issue is, that anything you try "at random", could make the problem WORSE!

So, you can't just try putting a damp piece of cotton on the thing, and hope the oil residue will 'float up'. Nor can you safely try rubbing alcohol or something like that.

If you are very lucky, polishing the piece with an oil based furniture polish, gently and carefully, might help.

Failing that, how about trying NOT to hide it? Maybe you could add several more stains (on purpose) and make an attractive customized pattern out of the several rings that will result.

Good luck. Let us know how things turn out.

Pierre

Friday, December 28, 2012

What paint color for a livingroom with very light colored wood floors?

Q. What paint color for a livingroom with very light colored wood floors? They are almost white with a tint of yellow. The cabinetry in the kitchen is medium brown wood, (not dark brown). There is a beige couch and a black coffetable and a black TV. Thanks!

A. What color to paint a living room with honey colored wood floors ...
16 Feb 2010 ... What color to paint a living room with honey colored wood floors? ... Best for resale would be a light grey based sage or light grey based ...
www.sofafurnitureguide.com/.../living-room/what-color-to-paint-a-living-room-with-honey-colored-wood-floors - Cache

What color would be good for an accent wall when my livingroom is a strong Yellow?

Q. I have a townhouse size livingroom. It is in a large rectangle shape. The entire room is painted with a strong yellow.. a little darker than Big Bird. We have hard wood floors that are a medium-light wood color and dark brown leather furniture, tables and mica lamps. Which wall should have the accent color? The entertainment system is along one of the shorter walls and the other shorter wall has a big bay window. The two larger walls are pretty much exposed and contain large cut-out doorways.

A. brown

What should we do with a wall between kitchen and livingroom?

Q. We have a wall between our kitchen and livingroom (with a door on the side of course. We are considering cutting a large space out of it and fitting it with a bar to have a breakfast bar situation, plus it will be nice to be able to see into either room from the other. But I was standing looking and wondering if we should just go all the way and knock out the whole wall, which would make for one big kitchen/living area. Our two rooms are neither one very large. Can anyone speak from experience on doing such a change? I fear too if we do the breakfast bar thing we'll be limiting our wall space as far places to put furniture...of course if there is no wall there, then we're really messing ourselves up.

A. I have done this before in my house so you are in luck!
What you should do is made a breakfast bar area in between the rooms by cutting a large hole in the wall put a counter in so there is a table and then add decor. One the empty space left of the wall you didn't cut hang shelves make some small and others larger and place wine glasses and cook books [etc.] on the side that is in the kitchen. On the side that is the living area space add shelves but on this side put small plants, books, candles, and other items that will fit with the decor of your home.

I really hope this helps and i am glad to help will anything that has to do will home design. Enjoy your new breakfast bar!!

What furniture maker makes solid wood bedroom furniture?

Q. I'm looking for furniture makers/brands that make solid wood bedroom furniture without veneers, and preferably ones that use old-fashioned carpentry techniques like dovetails, mortise and tendon, etc... Also, on another note, is Broyhill a good furniture company? My sister is looking into getting the Fontana collection for her room and I wanted to check that out for her. I'm still trying to see if I can find solid hardwood furniture before I give up and go with something else that uses veneers. Thanks.

A. A-America has really nice solid wood furniture. We just bought a bedroom set made from New Zealand Pine....it is very nice and reasonable. www.a-america.com

Where can I find good quality bedroom furniture for cheap?

Q. I'm getting some new bedroom furniture, but I don't have that much money to spend. Any suggestions for stores or sites? Thanks :)

A. Someone suggested thrift stores, and to that, I'd add consignment stores that carry furniture. Sometimes you can find nice pieces at Goodwill or Salvation Army. Someone suggested Big Lots, and they are worth a look, too.

Bear in mind that your furniture does not have to "match" - it doesn't have to be a set. For instance, you could have a wrought iron or a wicker headboard ( these are pretty inexpensive), an inexpensive round table covered with a tablecloth for a night stand/bedside table, and a dresser or chest of drawers, small chair, etc. Pier One has some cute wicker chairs that are reasonably priced.

If you are handy at refinishing furniture, you could pull together a shabby-chic look with used pieces that you strip and paint ivory or white.

You do not have to spend a lot of money to have an attractive room. Your accessories will make all the difference.

What color paint will go on walls with black bedroom furniture?

Q. My bedroom furniture is very feminine and ornate. My favorite color is red. I don't know how to choose a color or colors that will go with the black furniture

A. http://teensthemes.com/black-and-white-contemporary-bedrooms.html

How can I sound proof my home.?

Q. I need to sound proof my home.
My exterior walls are brick.
My interior walls are drywall.
My roof is composition shingle.
They built an outdoor gun range by my house.

A. It is an expensive proposition to insulate against noise of this type. It is you who should complain and get them to move to a commercial area.

You have every right to peace and quiet enjoyment of your home. You should not consider moving.

Otherwise, you sue them and sue the government department that gave them the permit. The govt. department is supposed to send a notice to everyone in the neighborhood and should have held a public meeting to hear any objections. I do not think this was done.

Otherwise, get them to insulate your home to your specifications (call a sound engineer for specs) including the basement walls. The shock travels to your foundation too.

Your moving from there is not an option. (unless you hate the neighborhood etc.. and for various reasons you wanted to move - that's diff.)

How much does a professional home exterior and interior paint sprayer cost?

Q. I am about to buy a professional paint sprayer that paints I can use to paint houses. I will be doing interior and exterior paint jobs. Thanks for the help.

A. My graco gas powered sprayer was $5000, no electric required, very nice to have. A good tall boy electric from graco or titan should be about $ 2000 - 3000 based on volume of paint you will. E using per job. You can get an ok (just ok) unit for about 1200. DONT GET A CHEAP SPRAYER OR SPRAY GUN. Make sure gun is rebuildable.

Is there any way to seal brick on your homes exterior?

Q. My house is in need of help. I have a sandy textured brick on the exterior (about 30 years old). The brick seems to have lost its coating and is crumbling off and spaulding out. It gets especially worse during the winter as it freezes and thaws. Is there any product that I could spray on the brick to seal it and stop this?
Thank you for all of your responses. I found more info on the net. Cosmo, you were right about the mortor tuck. Without that done first, trying to seal the brick won't do a thing. I'm having a mason look at it and quote me. I dont want to paint the brick, even though it probly is the longest lasting solution, and my wife is dead set against it. So it looks like Im going to get the mortor joints right first, and then apply the Behr sealer.

A. I am afraid your bricks may be too far gone for a sealer. Thompson's would be one step better than water and, in my opinion would be a waste of good money and even more valuable time.

Your home must be pretty old to have this ocuring. If your brick is to the point of crumbling, I think you are past the point of help for anything that can be applied with a brush or a spray gun. I would consult a mason. Perhaps the damage you are seeing is more cosmetic than structural. A mason may suggest a mortar tuck. This is where you dig out any loose mortar and replace it with new. Its a big job, but at some point in any stone building, it is necessary.

I don't want to alarm you, as your brick is still likely to outlast you.

what color is good for a bedroom and a bathroom that matches?

Q. The carpet in the bedroom is, dark blue.. and I have no clue what color to paint the room. I want the bathroom to match my bedroom but yet be cute and a little girly.. what color should I do? Im planing on getting shower curtains and rugs to match the paint in the bathroom with designs.

A. Fushia with blue looks girly and glamorous. I would go bold with hot pink/fuschia on the walls, or at least 1 wall if you don't want it so dramatic, and the other walls white; and an area rug in hot pink on top of your blue rug. And accessorize bedroom with those 2 colors. The bathroom, fushia and white, or blue and white.

Interior Designs - Bedroom and Bathroom Designs?

Q. Hey people, my house is under renovation and I need a good website that is realted to Interior Designs, decoration, painting, bedroom and bathroom designs.
Thanks

A. Google your search, that is the best way out! You may also try http://www.smartken.com for Bedroom and Bathroom designs

What is the theme in western-style bathrooms?

Q. I'm doing bachelors of architecture and we have this project of theme-oriented bathrooms. and my theme is to design a western-style bathroom, so i can see the pictures on Google and know some basic things that there should be and i can easily design one, but the thing is that I have to give the theme first, so I need the basic theme on which a western style bathroom is designed.

A. The toilets are bigger than other countries typically. The showers always have some sort of enclosed area unlike other countries which just share the same floor as the bathroom. Besides a master bathroom, typically the size of the bathroom can be smaller, especially the half bath. I don't think other countries share the same concept of half bath.

What is a fair price for marble tile floor installation?

Q. I need to install marble flooring throughout the house, and I was wondering, what is the fair price per square feet for tile installation?

I already have the marble, so the installer just needs to provide the underlayment, thinset, and floor leveling.

Also, the tile would need to be installed in 45 degree angles, instead of straight rows.

Thanks!

A. For marble labor , floor prep ( unknown because it varies a lot with marble) your looking at 5.00$ a s/f and up.
The proper way to prep for marble is a mud job which gives the absolute best support for marble and will also provide ( when done properly) a flat level floor. That alone can go for 2.00$ a s/f and up depending where you live.
In the real world your looking at closer to 10$ a s/f ( and up)with the prep.
Any questions you can e mail me through my avatar and check my qualifications there. GL

Starting a tile installation company?

Q. I want to start installing tile, and I am familiar with the process, but I have no "real" experience except for the DIY (peel and stick) tile. If I got a tile installation book and practiced on a few tiles on a small scale, how hard would it be to tile a floor good enough to get a positive referral from it?

A. I did a 20 x 18 foot room with 12 inch ceramic tiles. It was a snap really. I used a wide grout line because these were mexican tile. No spacers, just did it by eye.

Plan it so that you dont have "sliver" size peices on any wall , if possible. Rent a wet saw. Or buy one for $89, it will get you through the job.

Now if you are talking tiling a shopping mall thats something different. I have looked at some of that work , and man, those lines are straight for miles. But for homes, you will never see the errors after a week.

Cost of Ceramic tile installation?

Q. How much per sq foot should ceramic tile installation cost? I would like to get my kitchen and connected bathroom (260 sqft) done. I plan on spending 2 per sq ft on the actual tile.

A. Contact a ceramic tile installer or go to a showroom which sells ceramic, They will tell you the cost of material and the cost of installation. You can determine if you DIY.

What are some questions I can ask about in home enviromental safety?

Q. I'm doing a video project for my mass media class. I will be intereview people and asking them questions. I need 2 more questions to ask concering about in home enviromental safety? can someone help me out please?

A. Is the house ventilated? This could be a clue for Carbon monoxide poisoning.
Do you notice any strange smells when you've been gone for a few days? Could be mold.
What kind of cleaners do you use? Some are quite toxic or caustic.
When was the house built? Older homes may have asbestos insulation or lead based paints.
Do you have pets or children? Both can leave little messes if they have accidents.

Do most youngsters get adequate guidance and discipline training from their parents?

Q. Esp on home-safety, fire-safety, vehicle-safety and other aspects of safety? Isn't this the right time for more family bonding and to nurture kids properly, for a better tomorrow?

Your valuable comments would be much appreciated!

A. From where I am, parents teach, guide and discipline youngsters on the basics of safety, good behavior and manners. We don't even spare the rod, so to speak, if a child does wrong. But we explain to him why he is being spanked - not because we love him less but because we want to instill in his young mind the importance of knowing what is right and what is wrong, that there are certain rules to consider and must be obeyed to make him a better person when he grows up and that includes thinking not only for his own self but to consider others as well.

Can an employer require an employee to take a TB test?

Q. My husband works for a small company doing installations & structural modifications for home safety. His boss is mandating that all his employees get a tuberculosis test so that the company can get some sort of certification. Please note that, as far as we know, there is no indication that anyone has been exposed to TB. Is it reasonable or legal for his boss to require to him to take this test, especially since the company doesn't even provide health care insurance that would cover the treatment of any side effects that resulted from the test? Also, can anyone suggest any good on-line resources that deal with situations like this?

A. The staff is going into people's homes and touching their stuff and cannot be spreading a communicable disease.

Thursday, December 27, 2012

how does emergency lighting work?

Q. Like in a commercial building. Can you buy battery powered commercial lighting thats not connected to a 120volt plug? and what activates emergency lighting?
i figured, that the emergency lights would have to be connected to a 120 power supply from the building to be activated when power is cut. i just dont see how these emergency lights are triggered. unless they are connected to the buildings power?

A. Emergency lighting is always connected to the AC power, both to keep the batteries charged and to detect when to turn on.

If it were not connected to the AC power, how would you charge the batteries?

To repeat, the system is triggered by the AC power going to 0, probably by something as simple as a relay across the AC power leads.

Anyone know anyone who buys unused commercial light fixtures in California?

Q. Im looking for anyone to buy some unused commercial light fixtures that we have left over from a completed job. Does anyone have any ideas?

A. the surplus house

How do they make the commercial with light pictures?

Q. It's a commercial for a printer or camera or something, and it has people making shapes with glow sticks or sparklers in the dark. How do they make it?

A. It's called light painting. Those commercials are lots of individual shots put together.

Light painting is done with a long exposure in minimal light. Or no light. While the photo is being exposed, the person "writes" in the air with a glowstick or a pen-light. The exposure usually goes on long before or after the person has done the writing, so they often don't appear at all as the scene exposes without them in it.

If doing it in no light at all, fire a flash after you're done to expose the rest of the scene.

Any ideas on how to come up with window treatments fast and cheap for my new house that has tons of windows?

Q. It is an old cottage with lots of charm. I plan on painting it all light, and sanding the wood floors light, so I want the curtains to be light too.

I need ideas for window treatments that are affordable, but creative. This house is covered with lots of windows, and I don't know what I'm gonna do.

A. You know how people throw the sheets up well i have revised it since it is a cottage style Sheet's are a wonderful window treatment amd they already have a slot for the rod this is what i did for the mean time and the mean time is been like 5 years already ..lol .....UKAY i bought some cheap sheets at a discount store with flowers and plaid bright soft colors. then i went to my local harware store bought some dowels (round wood rods)usally 3-4' tall 5/8-1/2" and if i had a larger window i used a closet rod and cup hooks to hold them and this is the afforable but creative treatment. In the kitchen i divided the window and covered half and the other half i draped the top rod so i could have some sunlight in. Oh yes i used material glue for the edges. I didn't want to sew. It was fun easy and afforable and I am into victorian look so it was chic to me .

What kinds of window treatments can you hang when you have wood blinds?

Q. I am trying to decorate my living room, specifically I am looking to add window treatments. I have wood blinds (medium oak color) and wood trim (same color). Everything else in the room is really neautral - all khaki. I am wondering what kinds of things I can do for window treatments. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

A. Sounds like we have the same blinds. The wood is so beautiful you really shouldn't cover it up. We put up simple valances in a neutral color ( close to khaki ) so when the blinds were open they were hidden and we had an open view. When they are closed you get the full effect of the wood. It would be a shame to hide it. It took us a few days to get used to just valances, but it works. Also it is cleaner. Less dust and less curtain cleaning.

What color window treatments in kitchen with gray walls and hunter green counter-tops?

Q. In the house we are buying my kitchen will have light gray walls, hunter green counter-tops, and white cabinets. What color window treatments should I go with?

A. Have you thought about installing shutters to your windows? Not only are they more effective at saving energy and insulating than blinds/shades, they last longer and are beautiful to look at. If you arenât familiar with shutters, they are solid window coverings that consist of a frame surrounding an inset of fabric, glass, a solid panel, or most traditionally, louvers. Louvers are panels that can be adjusted to allow different amounts of light into your home. Shutters can be hinged and movable or fixed in place, and can be placed either on the interior or exterior of your home. Shutters placed in the interior of your home can replace what would have been curtains. Not only would they last longer, but they are more elegant and serve a function. White shutters would look amazing in the kitchen you just described! Here are pictures of shutters (http://bit.ly/lSuo8x) if you're interested.

home plan and started drinking heavily and the parole officer arrested him and put in jail .how long in jail?

Q. he has been in jail since beginning of Aug08 this is sept08. how much time will he get for parole violation for drinking?also he left the person who made the home plan with all the bills that he was supposed to help ,etc rent,gas,light ,water. how can my friend get him to pay after he is sentence to jail.can the parole board and probation help the friend get the money from the violator?

A. he will be in jail for as long as he was sentenced or until he gets paroled again ( if he dose not when).as far as the friend who got stuck with all the bills... not much he can do about that. and if i was him i would not help the man again. but i would lie to the guy saying if the bills where paid then he could use them as a home plain again and if he pays it turn around and say no to him. the guy had his chance for freedom and he wasted it and on top of that the pple who helped him got screwed with the bills let him sit in jail.

How much will my interest rate be on a home purchase?

Q. My girlfriend and I are looking to move into a new home come Dec/Jan. She is a 650 credit score, I am a 600. Looking in the price range of a $100-150K home. Planning on putting $2,000 down.

With that being said, what kind of interest rate should I be expecting? Also...I have heard of 80/20 loans. Any feedback on those?

A. I just bought a home about 6 months ago, so I know what your going through. It depends on a few things. Where do you live? How much money do you guys make? What's in your credit history, not just your score!

I can tell you from your credit score that your definitely not going to get the prime rate. You'll probably get a rate a few percents above whatever the best rate is that the mortgage company offers.

An 80/20 loan is two separate loans and the 20% loan's rate is always higher. When you make a down payment on a home that is less than 20% of the sale price then you pay on an 80% loan and also a 20% (both %'s are in respect to the selling price on the home) So therefore, you'll either have to take out a 80/20 or a loan for the sale price and then pay mortgage insurance (PMI) (because your down payment is nowhere near 20%).

I was told not to mess with an 80/20 loan for different reasons but you'll have to do your research in order to make the best decision for you two.

Are there any extra taxes on BSNL 500 home plan?

Q. Last month I was using 250 plan and this month i have brought up 500home plan. Are there any extra taxes on it? Is 500 c better than it ?
I didn't know about the two other plans of rs.500. The officials didn't ask me also.
And they changed it to 500 home plan. Do you think I should change it again?

A. 1) BSNL Dataone plan 250
-- It is not having night free 02:00 - 08:00
2) BSNL Dataone plan 500
--It is having night free 02:00 - 08:00
--2.5 GB FREE/ MONTH /excess will be charged
3) Charges Month / Rs. 500 + Tax nearly 12%
4) Yearly payment Rs.5,000 + Tax Rs.618 = Rs.5,618

Where to begin the custom-home building process?

Home building industry price elasticity of demand elastic or inelastic?

What is the recent economic activity on HOME BUILDING?

Q. Recent ecnomic activity (taxes or spending) done by the U.S. government and how it effects the home building industry.

I am doing a paper for school and not having much luck on this topic. Anything helps! Thanks guys!

A. growth is all most zero