April 27, 2015 in Home Improvements, Idea Corner
Sure, ombre has been all over fashion and hairstyles, but guess where else it’s popping up? Interior walls! While not all trends are meant to last, this one is so attractive, it won’t be painted over. Check it out! :
April 24, 2015 in Home Improvements, Idea Corner
Previously, Chicago Handyman gave some tips on installing cork flooring, a very eco-friendly option indeed. Ready for an even cheaper, more eco-friendly flooring? Brown Paper Bags!
Sure, it sounds a little bit like a kindergarten art project, but it is actually a great floor and puts those lunch sacks to use.
To start, gather these materials:
While this may seem like a long list, it’s actually pretty affordable at under $100 and can be used for up to two or three rooms.
Following shopping, prepare the floors for the material. Whether this means pulling up ratty carpet or shorty wood, do so. Then sand down any high spots in the subfloor, removing nails and filling in any gaps.
Once the subfloor is prepped, begin tearing up pieces of the brown paper, separating straight edged ones from the more choppy. These pieces should be between 6″-12″ diameter and once torn, balled up and put aside until application.
With the Elmer’s Glue ready, begin to paint the first area on the floor with the glue and then put 5-6 paper balls in the glue mix. Dunk them quickly, squeeze them and set them aside until they reach the floor.
Then start laying the pieces! For a more natural look, overlap the pieces bit by bit. Make sure to watch out for tears or inconsistencies.
Finally, using an extension pole, apply the stain and poly to the new flooring. This will be the longest part of the process because both steps need ample time for drying.
When dry, this green, durable flooring will not only help the environment, but ignite dinner party conversation.
Need more details? Check out Lovely Crafty Home for a step-by-step guide.
Looking for more flooring? Call Chicago Handyman for a quote on floor installation today!
April 10, 2015 in Home Improvements, Idea Corner
Source: Lera Blog
April 9, 2015 in Home Automation, Home Improvements, Tech Toybox
Chicago Handyman already told you about Nest Thermostats. Well now, here’s another great Nest product: Nest Protect.
Using Wi-Fi and sensors, Nest Protect verbally warns users if there is a concern in the home an exactly where it’s coming from.
Meanwhile, in case a homeowner isn’t home, a text message is sent to their cellphone in case of emergency.
For just under $100, protect the family and home from any danger.
April 8, 2015 in Home Improvements, Idea Corner
Going green is not only great for the future of the earth, but also homeowners’ wallets! There are many simple, easy purchases and home renovations to make any home, from an apartment to a mansion, a greener place to be.
Here are the top 5 ways to go green at home:
1. Composting
Don’t throw away food, revitalize it! Composting is a great way to turn left-overs and yard weeds into reusable energy- fertilizer.
2. Recycled Roof Tiles
Need a new roof? Don’t fall for the new roof tiles on the market. Use reclaimed clay, stone or slate tiles to create a greener roof.
3. Energy Efficient Appliances
If shopping for a new dishwasher or laundry machine, look for the energy efficient models. This investment may cost more initially but saving on energy bills later will surely be worth it.
4. Natural Flooring
There are a lot natural materials that can serve as a great alternative to hardwood flooring. Check out our previous article about installing cork flooring for ideas!
5. Recycling System
The easiest way to go green in the home? Start recycling! With just a few bins, it’ll be much easier to create a green contribution.
Need more green at home ideas, check out DIY Network’s full list of green home solutions.