Keywords: speed reading help books
Self-Help Tips For Starters Who Are Looking For Speed Reading Books
For students, reading five books from cover to cover is a lot already. But what if this is the requirement? For hobbyist, leisure reading may mean browsing over interesting information and topics and he or she enjoys learning while reading without the pressure. Is there a way to transform the stress of reading bulk information into enjoyment? There is one technique. This is called speed reading.
However, speed reading has become controversial as a reading technique. Debates between proponents and detractors of speed reading continue to occur. Generally, proponents claim that the technique uses various methods to assimilate several words at a glance and there is nothing wrong with that. Detractors argue that this is a marketing hoax and the technique is merely skimming.
Study on the information below as the article consider anything related to the nature of reading and speed reading.
1. Reading Myths versus Speed Reading (Facts)
These are some reading myths you ought to know:
a. Reading is linear.
Reading is not linear like thinking and writing. In fact, most writers the first part of their narratives last.
b. True reading is done verbatim.
Speed reading techniques can prove that some words are just fillers in a sentence or in a paragraph.
c. Reading is a rigorous task.
Like formula 1 and motocross, speed reading can be both fun and exciting.
d. All chapters are of equal importance.
Chapters in a book can have filler illustrations and other items as ordered by most publishers.
e. Reading faster will reduce retention of information.
The aim of speed reading is to increase one’s retention and comprehension.
So, the question is, “Are you ready?”
2. Getting Ready To Speed Read
Here is a 4-point guide before you start reading.
a. Eliminate all distractions.
Forget your problems and worries for a while. You can turn on some soft music to help you in your relaxation before you read. Be as objective as possible because worries will only cloud your mind and affect your comprehension and retention.
b. Know your purpose.
You should keep in mind your purpose of reading. You should consider the aspect on which you will be tested for. These are some of the information you might need to consider:
· Dates
· Comprehension
· Characters
· Settings
c. Do a pre-reading for 10 minutes.
Browse through the entire book and glance through all tables, summaries, pull-out quotes, section titles, and especially diagrams. By doing this, you can find the key chapter/s.
d. Read the key chapter/s.
More or less, the key chapters have the central idea of the book so you can dwell on these parts of the books more than any other sections.
Now consider the following reading techniques before going on.
3. Rapid Reading Techniques
a. Know your speed reading comfort level.
Speed reading is not merely about mastering skills. More importantly, this technique relies heavily on mind set and control. If you are serious about being a speed reader, you need to expect more from yourself. Moreover, you need a lot of practice so you will be exerting a lot of yourself during your first tries before being able to read with ease.
b. The book is a mine full of ore.
A book is a conglomerate of truths, ideas, information, concepts, terms, and notions. Therefore, you have to shift your mindset of looking for the gold within the ore.
c. Stop Sub-vocalizing
Start convincing yourself that the eye is the gate to your mind. Break the habit of using your mouth and ear to read and “learn”.
d. Use your finger.
Use your finger to help you focus. This also prevents you from back-skipping. Practice reading using your finger; just try it out as a starter. As you notice some improvement, buy a book on speed reading to help you decide which pattern of reading works best for you.
e. Break the back-skip habit.
Treat reading as if you are watching a movie in a cinema. Do not focus on one word or a sentence for long and just continue reading hoping that the next paragraphs will help you clarify your thoughts.
f. Use your periphery.
Train your eyes to read on both sides of the book even if you are on the center of a line.
To do this, most speed readers actually started drawing lines down pages of a book until they have achieved mastery.
g. Learn to read key words.
Train your minds to look for the gold. If you are able to do this, you can add more speed to your reading skills.
h. Eliminate eye rests.
As you read down lines on pages of a book, try to reduce your eye rests between 3 and 4 per line. Keep your eyes moving smoothly line after line until you are able to minimize the number of your eye rests.
i. Have short breaks.
Reading without a break is not really efficient. Sit down to read your target number of pages for a given time and reward yourself with a cookie, perhaps, during your break before you continue reading.
j. Set a time goal.
Pretend you are rehearsing for a race. Keep track of your speed and increase your target number of words per minute when you are able to beat your aim until you reach your maximum speed.
Now that your confidence level is raised up, get ready for more techniques on retention.
4. Retention Techniques
If you do not own the book, write on post-it or notepads.
a. Make marginal notes.
Actually, marking pages can increase the probability that you can read the content of a page in your mind.
b. Dog-ear relevant pages.
You may apply the system, “The bigger the dog-ear, the more important the page” when sorting out the gold in a book.
c. Rewrite key words on the first page of the book.
Whenever you have found gold in a book, use it or else you will lose it. Better yet, accommodate the information into something that you already know so that you can attain better recall later.
d. Re-read dog-eared pages.
This will definitely help you retain much information.
e. Write an abstract in either of the flyleaves.
Write down everything you have just learned using your own word in front or at the back pages of the book. This will enhance your comprehension and retention of important notions in a book. You can also use a mind map before writing an abstract.
f. Draw a mind map or concept map of the content.
A mind map or a concept map may take the form of a diagram that will link everything that the book tries to share to you. By doing this, it is like enhancing your photographic memory to its fullest.
Bear in mind that to become a life-long rapid reader, you need to practice a lot and you really need to work hard. This article can help you get started. However, you still need to purchase or borrow books on speed reading.
Try one or more of the following books. These are available at amazon.com:
1. Be a Rapid Reader by Kathryn Redway
2. Double Your Reading Speed by the Reading Laboratory Fawcett Books
3. Speed Reading by Tony Buzan Penguin Books
4. 21st Century Guide to Increasing Your Reading Speed by The Princeton Language Institute Dell Books
Now if you are ready, let the race begin!
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Plastic Shutters: Opening Up New Ideas In Exterior Design
Keywords: plastic shutters
Plastic Shutters: Opening Up New Ideas in Exterior Design
There are many ways to transform traditional houses into decorative and interesting structures. However, if you have a limited budget, plastic exterior shutters are one way to enhance the exterior of your house in an affordable way.
Below are some advantages of using plastic shutters:
1. Plastic shutters enhance structures.
Plastic shutters add interest and detail to buildings that have windows and need additional detailing. They can transform simple windows into decorative and beautiful ones.
2. Plastic shutters are weather resistant.
Plastic shutters are normally designed to withstand extreme temperate climates and even intense sunlight. They can resist extreme hot and cold temperatures and they do not wear out easily.
3. Plastic shutters do not rot.
The materials that make up plastic shutters are durable and sturdy. They do not oxidize. Termites can not damage them though they look like wood when seen a few yards away.
4. Plastic shutters come in different colors.
As mentioned above, plastic shutters may appear as wood but they can be treated with different colors. Manufacturers provide an array of colors and designs.
5. Plastic shutters are easy to assemble.
Plastic shutter kits usually have manuals that guide homeowners on the step-by-step procedures of installing plastic shutters. Normally, they can be either bolted or screwed directly to the exterior surface of a house or a building. The whole procedure can take off a few minutes from you.
6. Plastic shutters are really attractive.
Though plastic shutters are not created to be as functional as wood exterior shutters are, they can have the grainy and natural look of any wood.
They are really attractive and can look as perfect shutters.
7. Plastic shutters are affordable.
There can be beauty even with a tight budget. Plastic exteriors are very affordable since the shipping and manufacturers’ costs are not that expensive. Exterior shutters are very affordable for customers on a budget.
8. Plastic shutters are manufactured easily.
Plastic shutters are created or molded into standard or stock sizes. This serves as an advantage for most manufacturers of home enhancement supplies. Moreover, the exterior shutters that have standard sizes can be shipped quickly upon manufacturing.
9. Plastic shutters are offered in a variety.
Exterior shutters that are made of plastic are normally offered in raised panels, fixed louvers, board and batten, and/or a combination of raised panel and fixed louvers.
10. Plastic shutters are readily available
Since plastic exterior shutters are shipped easily, you can seldom find them out of stock in most home improvement stores. However, there are online companies that offer an array of quality shutters at discounted prices. In fact, they can offer a variety of choices when it comes to raised panels, fixed louvers, board and batten, and/or a combination of raised panel and fixed louvers plastic exterior shutters.
Online home enhancement companies will deliver your shutters after purchasing them via credit cards. Local companies will take the dimensions and the color that you need before you can personally pick them up. However, local manufacturers keep standard sizes of plastic exterior shutters.
Plastic shutters are great additions to your home exteriors. They can easily catch the admiration of your visitors. They can provide your eyes with enjoyment upon approaching near your house’s door.
Like many other things, imagination and resourcefulness are the only things that can limit your home beautification project.
Plastic Shutters: Opening Up New Ideas in Exterior Design
There are many ways to transform traditional houses into decorative and interesting structures. However, if you have a limited budget, plastic exterior shutters are one way to enhance the exterior of your house in an affordable way.
Below are some advantages of using plastic shutters:
1. Plastic shutters enhance structures.
Plastic shutters add interest and detail to buildings that have windows and need additional detailing. They can transform simple windows into decorative and beautiful ones.
2. Plastic shutters are weather resistant.
Plastic shutters are normally designed to withstand extreme temperate climates and even intense sunlight. They can resist extreme hot and cold temperatures and they do not wear out easily.
3. Plastic shutters do not rot.
The materials that make up plastic shutters are durable and sturdy. They do not oxidize. Termites can not damage them though they look like wood when seen a few yards away.
4. Plastic shutters come in different colors.
As mentioned above, plastic shutters may appear as wood but they can be treated with different colors. Manufacturers provide an array of colors and designs.
5. Plastic shutters are easy to assemble.
Plastic shutter kits usually have manuals that guide homeowners on the step-by-step procedures of installing plastic shutters. Normally, they can be either bolted or screwed directly to the exterior surface of a house or a building. The whole procedure can take off a few minutes from you.
6. Plastic shutters are really attractive.
Though plastic shutters are not created to be as functional as wood exterior shutters are, they can have the grainy and natural look of any wood.
They are really attractive and can look as perfect shutters.
7. Plastic shutters are affordable.
There can be beauty even with a tight budget. Plastic exteriors are very affordable since the shipping and manufacturers’ costs are not that expensive. Exterior shutters are very affordable for customers on a budget.
8. Plastic shutters are manufactured easily.
Plastic shutters are created or molded into standard or stock sizes. This serves as an advantage for most manufacturers of home enhancement supplies. Moreover, the exterior shutters that have standard sizes can be shipped quickly upon manufacturing.
9. Plastic shutters are offered in a variety.
Exterior shutters that are made of plastic are normally offered in raised panels, fixed louvers, board and batten, and/or a combination of raised panel and fixed louvers.
10. Plastic shutters are readily available
Since plastic exterior shutters are shipped easily, you can seldom find them out of stock in most home improvement stores. However, there are online companies that offer an array of quality shutters at discounted prices. In fact, they can offer a variety of choices when it comes to raised panels, fixed louvers, board and batten, and/or a combination of raised panel and fixed louvers plastic exterior shutters.
Online home enhancement companies will deliver your shutters after purchasing them via credit cards. Local companies will take the dimensions and the color that you need before you can personally pick them up. However, local manufacturers keep standard sizes of plastic exterior shutters.
Plastic shutters are great additions to your home exteriors. They can easily catch the admiration of your visitors. They can provide your eyes with enjoyment upon approaching near your house’s door.
Like many other things, imagination and resourcefulness are the only things that can limit your home beautification project.
Gazebo Royale: Turning Spa Into a Whole New Experience
Keywords: spa gazebo
Gazebo Royale: Turning Spa Into a Whole New Experience
What is a gazebo? Where did it all begin? These are but a few questions that this article will try to provide.
Maybe you have seen a gazebo but are not able to identify one.
A gazebo is a pavilion structure that is usually found in gardens, parks, and other spacious public areas. Its basic function is to provide shelter, shade, aesthetic taste, and a place to rest. It can be roofed, freestanding, and open on all sides.
Hopefully, the description above made your idea of a gazebo clear up a bit. Here is a piece of history about gazebos.
Some time in the past, it was assumed by many that the word gazebo came from the French expression, “Que c’est beau”, which means “How beautiful” and the Macaronic Latin Gazebo or “I shall gaze”.
Earlier structures of garden pavilions were open on all sides. Later, garden houses at Montacute House were termed as gazebos. In the film entitled, “The Sound of Music”, there was a gazebo scene but the pavilion is not open to views.
Just what now is a spa gazebo?
A spa gazebo is an outdoor structure that encloses your hot tub, Jacuzzi, and/or spa. It is a decorative and elegant rectangular, square, or hexagonal structure. It is elegant in a sense that it has large open windows, vaulted roof, and an archway that replaces a door. Usually, spa gazebos range between 8 and 20 feet in diameter, but it can also be much larger.
Below is the variety of spa gazebos that are available nowadays:
1. Traditional spa gazebos
These usually have single or two storey roofs that have Victorian style and made of red cedar. The aura within these structures is so attractive and soothing because they are open to views. This is mainly the reason why many people opt to use them as garden pavilions minus the spa. Instead, furniture for relaxation can be found inside these garden pavilions.
2. Enclosed Gazebos
Gazebos like these are closed gazebos, unlike the traditional spa gazebos mentioned above. These boast of Plexiglas windows that either swing open or slide. Skylights, and/or single or double French doors may complement the large Plexiglas windows. Structures like theses may be used as workshop studios or garden houses instead of spas.
3. Cedar spa gazebos
Cedar spa gazebos may or may not have floorings. In fact, some are installed on the lip of spas. These structures are particularly useful especially when the spas are on outside decks. Imagine a gazebo brim extending at the lip of a spa and from there walls are rising, thus creating a large hat. These are enclosed with bronzed acrylic windows and sliding doors for privacy.
4. Bamboo spa gazebos
Instead of a cedar, many opt for bamboo walls for these add a taste of the tropics, are less expensive, and are very easy to install. However, most spas like these do not have flooring.
5. White PVC vinyl
Like bamboo spa gazebos, vinyl spa gazebos do not have floorings. These types of gazebos are maintenance free and are always fresh in the eyes. Roofs, however, may come in other colors but white.
6. Aluminum spa gazebo
Aluminum is very durable as compared to cedar and bamboo. These can be found in commercial areas like hotels, restaurants, and even golf courses, but are still marked with the elegance of vaulted canopy roofs. The metal itself has powder coat pain with white or black finish.
Nowadays, spa gazebos can be bought in kits and are ready to assemble by home or building owners. It can take at least 4 days to assemble a cedar kit while an afternoon may be enough to assemble a bamboo spa gazebo.
Prices normally depend on the manufacturers and the complexity of the kits, but the most modest open gazebos usually cost 2,000 dollars while deluxe and complex models cost more than this.
Structures below a hundred square feet do not require any building permit. So if you are ready to spend on the beautification of your home, installing a spa gazebo is one heck of an investment.
Gazebo Royale: Turning Spa Into a Whole New Experience
What is a gazebo? Where did it all begin? These are but a few questions that this article will try to provide.
Maybe you have seen a gazebo but are not able to identify one.
A gazebo is a pavilion structure that is usually found in gardens, parks, and other spacious public areas. Its basic function is to provide shelter, shade, aesthetic taste, and a place to rest. It can be roofed, freestanding, and open on all sides.
Hopefully, the description above made your idea of a gazebo clear up a bit. Here is a piece of history about gazebos.
Some time in the past, it was assumed by many that the word gazebo came from the French expression, “Que c’est beau”, which means “How beautiful” and the Macaronic Latin Gazebo or “I shall gaze”.
Earlier structures of garden pavilions were open on all sides. Later, garden houses at Montacute House were termed as gazebos. In the film entitled, “The Sound of Music”, there was a gazebo scene but the pavilion is not open to views.
Just what now is a spa gazebo?
A spa gazebo is an outdoor structure that encloses your hot tub, Jacuzzi, and/or spa. It is a decorative and elegant rectangular, square, or hexagonal structure. It is elegant in a sense that it has large open windows, vaulted roof, and an archway that replaces a door. Usually, spa gazebos range between 8 and 20 feet in diameter, but it can also be much larger.
Below is the variety of spa gazebos that are available nowadays:
1. Traditional spa gazebos
These usually have single or two storey roofs that have Victorian style and made of red cedar. The aura within these structures is so attractive and soothing because they are open to views. This is mainly the reason why many people opt to use them as garden pavilions minus the spa. Instead, furniture for relaxation can be found inside these garden pavilions.
2. Enclosed Gazebos
Gazebos like these are closed gazebos, unlike the traditional spa gazebos mentioned above. These boast of Plexiglas windows that either swing open or slide. Skylights, and/or single or double French doors may complement the large Plexiglas windows. Structures like theses may be used as workshop studios or garden houses instead of spas.
3. Cedar spa gazebos
Cedar spa gazebos may or may not have floorings. In fact, some are installed on the lip of spas. These structures are particularly useful especially when the spas are on outside decks. Imagine a gazebo brim extending at the lip of a spa and from there walls are rising, thus creating a large hat. These are enclosed with bronzed acrylic windows and sliding doors for privacy.
4. Bamboo spa gazebos
Instead of a cedar, many opt for bamboo walls for these add a taste of the tropics, are less expensive, and are very easy to install. However, most spas like these do not have flooring.
5. White PVC vinyl
Like bamboo spa gazebos, vinyl spa gazebos do not have floorings. These types of gazebos are maintenance free and are always fresh in the eyes. Roofs, however, may come in other colors but white.
6. Aluminum spa gazebo
Aluminum is very durable as compared to cedar and bamboo. These can be found in commercial areas like hotels, restaurants, and even golf courses, but are still marked with the elegance of vaulted canopy roofs. The metal itself has powder coat pain with white or black finish.
Nowadays, spa gazebos can be bought in kits and are ready to assemble by home or building owners. It can take at least 4 days to assemble a cedar kit while an afternoon may be enough to assemble a bamboo spa gazebo.
Prices normally depend on the manufacturers and the complexity of the kits, but the most modest open gazebos usually cost 2,000 dollars while deluxe and complex models cost more than this.
Structures below a hundred square feet do not require any building permit. So if you are ready to spend on the beautification of your home, installing a spa gazebo is one heck of an investment.
Monday, December 18, 2006
Basic Facts About Aluminum
Keywords: aluminum fence
Basic Facts About Aluminum and Ornamental Aluminum Fence
Aluminium, commonly known as aluminum, is highly favorable as a building material because of its high resistance to corrosion. It is also relatively lightweight so aluminum and its alloys are very important to aerospace and other transportation industry.
Below is a summary of the important measures of aluminum and/or aluminum alloys:
Pure aluminum is soft and has little strength. Manufacturers usually mix this element with other metals, like zinc, copper, and magnesium, to form alloys. Moreover:
· It is the second most malleable after gold.
· It is the sixth most ductile element and/or metal.
· It is a dull silver-colored metal that can be formed into any shape.
· It is non magnetic.
· It is non toxic.
· It is non-sparking.
· It is a good conductor of heat.
The largest share of aluminum alloy manufacture belongs to the industry of packaging for use in items such as bottle caps, beverage cans, foil wrappers, foil pouches, and food containers.
Aluminum is mostly used in electrical equipment such as light bulbs, telephone wires, and power lines.
Many other items also contain aluminum, which include knitting needles, golf clubs, rocket fuel, refrigerators, zip fasteners, toasters, and cooking utensils.
The industry of construction uses alloys of aluminum for panels, gutters, sides and roofs of buildings, window frames, tubes for electrical wires, and even fences.
Considering the abovementioned features of aluminum, an array of makers of ornamental aluminum fence are already competing in manufacturing ornamental aluminum fences. The following features and items are offered by Ultra®, Ideal®, and Jerith®.
A do-it-yourself project with help from Hoover Fence
Aluminum wrought iron appearance
Available in 3’, 4’, 5’, 6’, 8’, 52”, and 54” heights
Dozens of styles are available to widen your choices
Double Arch Top Gates are available from Ideal® and Jerith®
Free shipping is offered by Ideal® with orders over 5,000 dollars
Free shipping is offered by Jerith® with orders over 1,250 dollars
Free shipping is offered by Ultra® with orders over 3,500 dollars
Maintenance is free. You will never need to paint the surfaces again
Most styles are available in bronze, black, and/or white colors
Sections are available in lengths of 6’.
Single Arch Top Gates are available from Ideal® and Jerith®
There are posts with ball, flat and even solar lighting caps
Unlike wooden fences, aluminum fences are usually ready to assemble and require shipping from source manufacturers. Homeowners choose aluminum fences over wooden fences for variety of reasons. Some of it is provided as follows:
Aluminum fences do not rot while wooden fences do.
Aluminum fences do not need repainting while wooden fences do.
Aluminum fences complement the colors of most modern houses.
Aluminum fences are fire resistant while wooden fences are not.
Aluminum fences will not corrode with the presence of moisture. Wooden fences will rot easily with the presence of moisture.
Aluminum fences do not need to be treated with preservatives. Wooden fences need to be treated with preservatives to prolong its sturdiness.
Aluminum fences are not prone to termites. Wooden fences can be destroyed by termites when not properly treated.
Homeowners may consider aluminum fences over wooden fences given that they are able to carefully consider their budget and layout, among others.
Basic Facts About Aluminum and Ornamental Aluminum Fence
Aluminium, commonly known as aluminum, is highly favorable as a building material because of its high resistance to corrosion. It is also relatively lightweight so aluminum and its alloys are very important to aerospace and other transportation industry.
Below is a summary of the important measures of aluminum and/or aluminum alloys:
Pure aluminum is soft and has little strength. Manufacturers usually mix this element with other metals, like zinc, copper, and magnesium, to form alloys. Moreover:
· It is the second most malleable after gold.
· It is the sixth most ductile element and/or metal.
· It is a dull silver-colored metal that can be formed into any shape.
· It is non magnetic.
· It is non toxic.
· It is non-sparking.
· It is a good conductor of heat.
The largest share of aluminum alloy manufacture belongs to the industry of packaging for use in items such as bottle caps, beverage cans, foil wrappers, foil pouches, and food containers.
Aluminum is mostly used in electrical equipment such as light bulbs, telephone wires, and power lines.
Many other items also contain aluminum, which include knitting needles, golf clubs, rocket fuel, refrigerators, zip fasteners, toasters, and cooking utensils.
The industry of construction uses alloys of aluminum for panels, gutters, sides and roofs of buildings, window frames, tubes for electrical wires, and even fences.
Considering the abovementioned features of aluminum, an array of makers of ornamental aluminum fence are already competing in manufacturing ornamental aluminum fences. The following features and items are offered by Ultra®, Ideal®, and Jerith®.
A do-it-yourself project with help from Hoover Fence
Aluminum wrought iron appearance
Available in 3’, 4’, 5’, 6’, 8’, 52”, and 54” heights
Dozens of styles are available to widen your choices
Double Arch Top Gates are available from Ideal® and Jerith®
Free shipping is offered by Ideal® with orders over 5,000 dollars
Free shipping is offered by Jerith® with orders over 1,250 dollars
Free shipping is offered by Ultra® with orders over 3,500 dollars
Maintenance is free. You will never need to paint the surfaces again
Most styles are available in bronze, black, and/or white colors
Sections are available in lengths of 6’.
Single Arch Top Gates are available from Ideal® and Jerith®
There are posts with ball, flat and even solar lighting caps
Unlike wooden fences, aluminum fences are usually ready to assemble and require shipping from source manufacturers. Homeowners choose aluminum fences over wooden fences for variety of reasons. Some of it is provided as follows:
Aluminum fences do not rot while wooden fences do.
Aluminum fences do not need repainting while wooden fences do.
Aluminum fences complement the colors of most modern houses.
Aluminum fences are fire resistant while wooden fences are not.
Aluminum fences will not corrode with the presence of moisture. Wooden fences will rot easily with the presence of moisture.
Aluminum fences do not need to be treated with preservatives. Wooden fences need to be treated with preservatives to prolong its sturdiness.
Aluminum fences are not prone to termites. Wooden fences can be destroyed by termites when not properly treated.
Homeowners may consider aluminum fences over wooden fences given that they are able to carefully consider their budget and layout, among others.
How To Build Your Own Fence
Keywords: How to build your own fence
How to Build Your Own Wood Fence
Fences can be made of aluminum, vinyl, iron, and wood. Likewise, all of these materials are made to mark territories and provide homeowners with privacy.
Each of the abovementioned raw materials has a different cost. Depending on the manufacturers, fences are ready-made and can be installed. However this may cost more than buying raw materials. Among these materials, wood is known as the most basic and popular choice of homeowners.
Following is the five-point guideposts on how to build your own wood fence so you can save time and money.
1. Prepare the tools and materials
Here is a checklist of the tools and materials you will need:
· Boards and posts
· Gravel and sand
· Hammer
· Hand saw
· Level
· Marking pencil
· Nails
· Paint or outdoor stain
· Post hole digger
· Power saw
· Ready mixed concrete
· Small axe or hatchet
· Steel tape
· Tamping rod
· Wood chisel
· Wood preservative
2. Spacing the fence posts
· Set the end or corner posts first. Afterwards, stretch a line in between these posts.
· Set your fence posts about 6 to 8 inches apart. However, the spacing depends on the type and purpose of fence, and the terrain, among others.
· The structural strength and appearance of your fence depends on the positioning of the fence posts so you have to take time measuring the gaps between posts.
· Provide a marker at the positions where the post holes are to be dug.
3. Setting the fence posts
· Set all fence posts with 1/3 of their lengths buried in the ground. Do the same with posts that will carry heavy burdens.
· Dig the holes to the proper depth.
· Anchor the posts by making the holes larger at the bottom. Put two shovels or a large stone at the bottom of each hole to avoid moisture from seeping into the base of each post.
· Treat the part of the post that will be placed underground using wood preservative. Allow the treated part of the post to stand overnight.
· You can also pack the bottom of the posts with concrete or dirt. Or you can place two to three shovels of gravel at the bottom of each hole before the post is erected.
· Erect each post making sure that the top part of each post is aligned with the other.
· Use stakes in each post after sighting the alignment. Readjust the posts by removing the nails that hold the braces. Keep the stakes in place until the concrete has set.
· If you used dirt at the bottom of each post, tamp it thoroughly to remove air bubbles. Make sure that you do not alter the alignment during the tamping process.
· A corner post should be set in both directions so you should provide extra braces.
· Let the posts stand for a few days before adding the fence.
· Make sure that the heads of posts are capped, rounded, or slanted to ensure that the posts will last.
4. Adding rails to the fence posts
· Attach railings at the top and bottom of the fence posts.
· Nail the top rail to the top of the post. This way, the rail can be attached to the rail at the center of the post.
· However, if the rail is added at the center rather than at the top of the post, connect it with a wood block, a groove, or a metal bracket.
· Use a stick to use as a guide to make sure that the top and bottom railings are in perfect alignment.
· There are several ways on how to attach the rails depending on the type or style of fence. The following provides a brief description of each joint:
a. lap joint – easiest to use
b. grooved joint – rail is grooved and not nailed
c. butt joint – difficult but is often better than grooved joint
d. mortised joint – better than butt joint
e. slotted joint – for decorative fences
5. Selecting the fence style
· There are four basic styles but each has the basic top, bottom, and center rails. They differ on how the rails are treated. The following provides a brief description of each fence style:
a. picket fences - very popular and easy to build; all pickets must be properly spaced by inserting a loose picket in between the picket already nailed and the other that is to be nailed
b. basket weave fence – often used on terrain that slopes; this allows you to lower or raise each post
c. board fence – built to provide the privacy you need for it can be built as tall as needed and then painted afterwards
d. siding fence – used to match the siding of your home; can be covered on one or both sides
These are but a few of the many styles that are available for building fences around your own homes. Like any other things, imagination and resourcefulness are the only things that can limit your creativity when it comes to building your own fence.
How to Build Your Own Wood Fence
Fences can be made of aluminum, vinyl, iron, and wood. Likewise, all of these materials are made to mark territories and provide homeowners with privacy.
Each of the abovementioned raw materials has a different cost. Depending on the manufacturers, fences are ready-made and can be installed. However this may cost more than buying raw materials. Among these materials, wood is known as the most basic and popular choice of homeowners.
Following is the five-point guideposts on how to build your own wood fence so you can save time and money.
1. Prepare the tools and materials
Here is a checklist of the tools and materials you will need:
· Boards and posts
· Gravel and sand
· Hammer
· Hand saw
· Level
· Marking pencil
· Nails
· Paint or outdoor stain
· Post hole digger
· Power saw
· Ready mixed concrete
· Small axe or hatchet
· Steel tape
· Tamping rod
· Wood chisel
· Wood preservative
2. Spacing the fence posts
· Set the end or corner posts first. Afterwards, stretch a line in between these posts.
· Set your fence posts about 6 to 8 inches apart. However, the spacing depends on the type and purpose of fence, and the terrain, among others.
· The structural strength and appearance of your fence depends on the positioning of the fence posts so you have to take time measuring the gaps between posts.
· Provide a marker at the positions where the post holes are to be dug.
3. Setting the fence posts
· Set all fence posts with 1/3 of their lengths buried in the ground. Do the same with posts that will carry heavy burdens.
· Dig the holes to the proper depth.
· Anchor the posts by making the holes larger at the bottom. Put two shovels or a large stone at the bottom of each hole to avoid moisture from seeping into the base of each post.
· Treat the part of the post that will be placed underground using wood preservative. Allow the treated part of the post to stand overnight.
· You can also pack the bottom of the posts with concrete or dirt. Or you can place two to three shovels of gravel at the bottom of each hole before the post is erected.
· Erect each post making sure that the top part of each post is aligned with the other.
· Use stakes in each post after sighting the alignment. Readjust the posts by removing the nails that hold the braces. Keep the stakes in place until the concrete has set.
· If you used dirt at the bottom of each post, tamp it thoroughly to remove air bubbles. Make sure that you do not alter the alignment during the tamping process.
· A corner post should be set in both directions so you should provide extra braces.
· Let the posts stand for a few days before adding the fence.
· Make sure that the heads of posts are capped, rounded, or slanted to ensure that the posts will last.
4. Adding rails to the fence posts
· Attach railings at the top and bottom of the fence posts.
· Nail the top rail to the top of the post. This way, the rail can be attached to the rail at the center of the post.
· However, if the rail is added at the center rather than at the top of the post, connect it with a wood block, a groove, or a metal bracket.
· Use a stick to use as a guide to make sure that the top and bottom railings are in perfect alignment.
· There are several ways on how to attach the rails depending on the type or style of fence. The following provides a brief description of each joint:
a. lap joint – easiest to use
b. grooved joint – rail is grooved and not nailed
c. butt joint – difficult but is often better than grooved joint
d. mortised joint – better than butt joint
e. slotted joint – for decorative fences
5. Selecting the fence style
· There are four basic styles but each has the basic top, bottom, and center rails. They differ on how the rails are treated. The following provides a brief description of each fence style:
a. picket fences - very popular and easy to build; all pickets must be properly spaced by inserting a loose picket in between the picket already nailed and the other that is to be nailed
b. basket weave fence – often used on terrain that slopes; this allows you to lower or raise each post
c. board fence – built to provide the privacy you need for it can be built as tall as needed and then painted afterwards
d. siding fence – used to match the siding of your home; can be covered on one or both sides
These are but a few of the many styles that are available for building fences around your own homes. Like any other things, imagination and resourcefulness are the only things that can limit your creativity when it comes to building your own fence.
Orchid Themes on Supplies, Decorative Items and O
Keywords: orchid gifts
Orchid Themes on Supplies, Decorative Items and Other Special Gifts
Orchids are one of the species of flowers that are famous as ornamental plants. They are widely cultivated as garden, house, and greenhouse flowers. They also grow in the wild.
Orchids live for at least three years that is why they are called perennials. Most species are very colorful, beautiful, and long lasting. These are but a few reasons why many include opt to buy supplies for orchid growers as gifts. Other gifts adopt the so-called orchid theme.
Below are appropriate gift items for orchid growers and some gifts with orchid themes for orchid lovers. The companies or manufacturers below can also be found in the web:
Orchid supplies
For orchid growers and lovers alike, consider the following manufacturers:
Carter and Holmes
This manufacturer provides humidity trays for indoor growing of orchids. These trays are available in maple and/or plastic.
Enlightened Orchids
The company offers digital hydrometers and thermometers at the best price.
Quarter Acre Orchids
They provide an array of gift baskets and items for beginners.
d. Lone Star Orchids
They are known for their Impress-O-Tag. This certain item is a metal tag with handwriting on a pencil. This is best to label your orchids since the handwriting never fades and the tag will never break unlike the plastic ones.
e. Carston Orchids
Once you are able to buy at least three orchids, a digital light meter is just appropriate and this company has it.
f. Creative Hydroponics
If you happen to be interested in hydroponics, this company provides you with great kits for starters.
g. R.F. Orchids
If you are looking for cachepots to display your orchids, this manufacturer provides you with more than you need.
Decorative items
If you are thinking of decorative items for orchid lovers, start clicking the sites of the following manufacturers:
Love Your Wedding
They take pride of their White Orchid Candle which has Phalaenopsis on the outer part. The amazing thing about this candle is that it burns at the center so the outer part can be useful with a votive afterwards.
The Elusive Orchid
A whole series of dinnerware, from platters to plates to napkins, is embossed with an array of orchids. This is also a perfect collector’s item.
Maui Hands
Just the same, this company boasts of their Phalaenopsis plates. They are simply elegant.
Romance Her
Some decorative but useful flower sprays with gold plated Dendrobium and Cymbidiums are guaranteed eye-catchers.
Orchid stationery
a. Angela Mirro and Cynthia Padilla
If you are looking for lovely note cards and paintings for orchid collectors and lovers alike, these companies can offer elegant gift items.
b. New York Botanical Garden
If you are looking for note cards, note cubes, and/or address books, this company has various items to choose from. The thing is you will surely have a hard time from choosing for all items are very likable.
c. Cottage Antiques
Look nowhere else for this company offers the prettiest embossed stationery you can ever see.
The beauty and elegance of orchids have really captured the hearts of many. This is enough reason for them to wish that they can capture that same beauty and elegance by being able to preserve them and prolong their lives in any creative and resourceful way possible.
Orchid Themes on Supplies, Decorative Items and Other Special Gifts
Orchids are one of the species of flowers that are famous as ornamental plants. They are widely cultivated as garden, house, and greenhouse flowers. They also grow in the wild.
Orchids live for at least three years that is why they are called perennials. Most species are very colorful, beautiful, and long lasting. These are but a few reasons why many include opt to buy supplies for orchid growers as gifts. Other gifts adopt the so-called orchid theme.
Below are appropriate gift items for orchid growers and some gifts with orchid themes for orchid lovers. The companies or manufacturers below can also be found in the web:
Orchid supplies
For orchid growers and lovers alike, consider the following manufacturers:
Carter and Holmes
This manufacturer provides humidity trays for indoor growing of orchids. These trays are available in maple and/or plastic.
Enlightened Orchids
The company offers digital hydrometers and thermometers at the best price.
Quarter Acre Orchids
They provide an array of gift baskets and items for beginners.
d. Lone Star Orchids
They are known for their Impress-O-Tag. This certain item is a metal tag with handwriting on a pencil. This is best to label your orchids since the handwriting never fades and the tag will never break unlike the plastic ones.
e. Carston Orchids
Once you are able to buy at least three orchids, a digital light meter is just appropriate and this company has it.
f. Creative Hydroponics
If you happen to be interested in hydroponics, this company provides you with great kits for starters.
g. R.F. Orchids
If you are looking for cachepots to display your orchids, this manufacturer provides you with more than you need.
Decorative items
If you are thinking of decorative items for orchid lovers, start clicking the sites of the following manufacturers:
Love Your Wedding
They take pride of their White Orchid Candle which has Phalaenopsis on the outer part. The amazing thing about this candle is that it burns at the center so the outer part can be useful with a votive afterwards.
The Elusive Orchid
A whole series of dinnerware, from platters to plates to napkins, is embossed with an array of orchids. This is also a perfect collector’s item.
Maui Hands
Just the same, this company boasts of their Phalaenopsis plates. They are simply elegant.
Romance Her
Some decorative but useful flower sprays with gold plated Dendrobium and Cymbidiums are guaranteed eye-catchers.
Orchid stationery
a. Angela Mirro and Cynthia Padilla
If you are looking for lovely note cards and paintings for orchid collectors and lovers alike, these companies can offer elegant gift items.
b. New York Botanical Garden
If you are looking for note cards, note cubes, and/or address books, this company has various items to choose from. The thing is you will surely have a hard time from choosing for all items are very likable.
c. Cottage Antiques
Look nowhere else for this company offers the prettiest embossed stationery you can ever see.
The beauty and elegance of orchids have really captured the hearts of many. This is enough reason for them to wish that they can capture that same beauty and elegance by being able to preserve them and prolong their lives in any creative and resourceful way possible.
Sunday, December 17, 2006
Furniture and Other Accessories For Your Outdoor Kitchen
Keywords: outdoor kitchen furniture
Furniture and Other Accessories For Your Outdoor Kitchen
Outdoor cooking, for many years, has remained as an American passion. They just love cooking outdoors! What changed are the now high-end outdoor kitchen amenities such as refrigerators, space heaters, high-tech gas-fueled grills, and stylish furniture.
Nowadays, you should not find it surprising if outdoor kitchens have become one of the favorite segments in the industry of home improvement. Thus, it is hardly debatable that an outdoor kitchen adds to a home’s functionality, value and pleasure for homeowners.
How does one build a practical outdoor kitchen? This article has five simple steps for you:
Plan
Like any other endeavor, creating an outdoor kitchen needs critical planning regarding two elements:
Location
Normally, outdoor kitchen are built adjacent to the inside kitchen or off the rear of the house. An outdoor kitchen should have a pleasing location and have an easy access to the interior of the house.
For example, you can build an outdoor kitchen on a pre-existing patio or deck and build a combination kitchen patio and/or kitchen deck.
Another thing, you should consider the frequency and nature of usage, that is if for entertainment and/or for recreation, of outdoor kitchen so that the whole layout will make all areas accessible and functional.
Imagination and appropriate layout are the only limits to this element.
Budget
Of course, budget accommodation is another crucial element in the planning process. You have to consider that even a modest set-up, which consists of a kitchen island and a pro quality grill, will need an estimate cost of 5,000 dollars.
A helpful tip then is to gradually build your outdoor kitchen. You can spend 7,000 dollars to buy chairs and tables and a grill for this year and then spend the same amount for deck lighting, patio heaters, and refrigerators for next year. It takes long before you finish your dream outdoor kitchen but you can be sure that the project will be higher in quality.
In other words, you should figure out how you can best afford a quality outdoor kitchen before getting so excited.
2. The Grill
Every modern outdoor kitchen should have a grill. Normally, a grill uses natural or propane gas. The things that make a grill different from the other are size, budget, and features. Depending on the configuration of the kitchen, you can choose a portable grill on wheels or a grill that is mounted permanently.
Also, you need to pay close attention to the following features:
a. total cooking surface
The more square inches the cooking surface has, the merrier you will be. In this case, you have enough space to grill your favorite poultry, meat, vegetables and/or fish.
b. quantity and size of size burnersIf you have more and bigger side burners, you can accommodate large meals. You can also consider the presence of a rotisserie or a warming rack.
c. size of storage space
It is more advantageous if you have plenty of storage beneath your grill. Also, you have to check if your grill provides you with enough room to work around and cook. Ideally, there should be at least three feet of space on each side of the grill.
3. The Grill Accessories
The proper accessories for your grill include: baskets, tongs, rotisseries, utensils, egg rings, hotdog sticks, fry griddles, digital thermometers, and even branding iron to stamp family meals. Remember, you don’t have to buy everything at the same time. It is better to buy the accessories that will be frequently used and gradually add other items some other time.
4. Outdoor Appliances
It is logical to think of having a refrigerator once the set up for a grill is in place. Refrigerator is the appropriate appliance to keep the food clean, cold, and even safe before it is cooked. It can also keep beverages cold to enjoy. You can also install an outdoor sink.
You also have to consider installing lights, one or more patio space heaters, and bug zappers.
5. Furniture
For furniture, you have to consider two things:
a. tables and chairs
Go for tables and chairs that are durable, comfortable, and beautiful.
b. work island
Keep on mind the triangle design. This will enable you to cook and move around your outdoor kitchen.
The key to a great outdoor kitchen are careful planning and budgeting. By these, you will not only have a great outdoor kitchen but a whole lot of outdoor cooking experience and a family that enjoys the food!
Furniture and Other Accessories For Your Outdoor Kitchen
Outdoor cooking, for many years, has remained as an American passion. They just love cooking outdoors! What changed are the now high-end outdoor kitchen amenities such as refrigerators, space heaters, high-tech gas-fueled grills, and stylish furniture.
Nowadays, you should not find it surprising if outdoor kitchens have become one of the favorite segments in the industry of home improvement. Thus, it is hardly debatable that an outdoor kitchen adds to a home’s functionality, value and pleasure for homeowners.
How does one build a practical outdoor kitchen? This article has five simple steps for you:
Plan
Like any other endeavor, creating an outdoor kitchen needs critical planning regarding two elements:
Location
Normally, outdoor kitchen are built adjacent to the inside kitchen or off the rear of the house. An outdoor kitchen should have a pleasing location and have an easy access to the interior of the house.
For example, you can build an outdoor kitchen on a pre-existing patio or deck and build a combination kitchen patio and/or kitchen deck.
Another thing, you should consider the frequency and nature of usage, that is if for entertainment and/or for recreation, of outdoor kitchen so that the whole layout will make all areas accessible and functional.
Imagination and appropriate layout are the only limits to this element.
Budget
Of course, budget accommodation is another crucial element in the planning process. You have to consider that even a modest set-up, which consists of a kitchen island and a pro quality grill, will need an estimate cost of 5,000 dollars.
A helpful tip then is to gradually build your outdoor kitchen. You can spend 7,000 dollars to buy chairs and tables and a grill for this year and then spend the same amount for deck lighting, patio heaters, and refrigerators for next year. It takes long before you finish your dream outdoor kitchen but you can be sure that the project will be higher in quality.
In other words, you should figure out how you can best afford a quality outdoor kitchen before getting so excited.
2. The Grill
Every modern outdoor kitchen should have a grill. Normally, a grill uses natural or propane gas. The things that make a grill different from the other are size, budget, and features. Depending on the configuration of the kitchen, you can choose a portable grill on wheels or a grill that is mounted permanently.
Also, you need to pay close attention to the following features:
a. total cooking surface
The more square inches the cooking surface has, the merrier you will be. In this case, you have enough space to grill your favorite poultry, meat, vegetables and/or fish.
b. quantity and size of size burnersIf you have more and bigger side burners, you can accommodate large meals. You can also consider the presence of a rotisserie or a warming rack.
c. size of storage space
It is more advantageous if you have plenty of storage beneath your grill. Also, you have to check if your grill provides you with enough room to work around and cook. Ideally, there should be at least three feet of space on each side of the grill.
3. The Grill Accessories
The proper accessories for your grill include: baskets, tongs, rotisseries, utensils, egg rings, hotdog sticks, fry griddles, digital thermometers, and even branding iron to stamp family meals. Remember, you don’t have to buy everything at the same time. It is better to buy the accessories that will be frequently used and gradually add other items some other time.
4. Outdoor Appliances
It is logical to think of having a refrigerator once the set up for a grill is in place. Refrigerator is the appropriate appliance to keep the food clean, cold, and even safe before it is cooked. It can also keep beverages cold to enjoy. You can also install an outdoor sink.
You also have to consider installing lights, one or more patio space heaters, and bug zappers.
5. Furniture
For furniture, you have to consider two things:
a. tables and chairs
Go for tables and chairs that are durable, comfortable, and beautiful.
b. work island
Keep on mind the triangle design. This will enable you to cook and move around your outdoor kitchen.
The key to a great outdoor kitchen are careful planning and budgeting. By these, you will not only have a great outdoor kitchen but a whole lot of outdoor cooking experience and a family that enjoys the food!
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