Speak Every Lingo: Get The Trype Keyboard For Free

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Just met some new bilingual friends? Need to send a text to an international business associate? Looking to freshen up on the high school language you’ve most likely forgotten?

Well, the Trype Keyboard makes this possible. And for a limited time, it’s free!

This user friendly app allows you to type in any message and the keyboard will simultaneously translate the text into any of its 80 languages in its database.

So get ready for any & all communications with the Trype Keyboard!

 

Concrete Countertops: Get The Popular Look On A Budget

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Concrete countertops are all the rage in home renovation. Not only is the style industrial, but easier to clean than the more expensive granite or marble. Despite being seemingly cheaper, concrete countertops can run pretty steep. So instead of getting a slab professionally installed or taking the copious amount of time to create concrete forms, get the same aesthetic by applying concrete over pre-existing countertops.

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Here are the needed supplies:

  • 10-pound bag of Ardex Feather Finish
  • Course-grit sandpaper
  • Drywall knife
  • Putty knife
  • Finish sealer
  • Paint brush

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To start the process, sand down the previous counters with the course-grit sandpaper to create a perfect surface for the concrete to settle on. Following this, mix the Ardex Feather Finish and water until it reaches a semi-thick consistency.

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Once the mixture is prepared, apply multiple thin layers to the countertop’s surface. For 100 percent coverage, 3 or 4 layers will most likely be required. To ensure a durable surface, sand thoroughly between each application.

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When these layers are dry, use the putty knife to clean up any mixture that splattered onto walls and create natural texture in the surface. Depending on the desired look, feel free to sand the surface until trowel marks show through or until a smooth concrete look is achieved.

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Finally, pour the sealer over the concrete making sure it soaks through thoroughly before using a paint brush to remove any residue.

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So for just $15 and a few hours, concrete countertops aren’t only affordable but achievable without any back breaking hard work.

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Get the detailed tutorial from The Little Green Notebook.

In search of quality service for more kitchen remodels? Contact Chicago Handyman today!

The Very Best Wall Improvement: A DIY Wall Niche

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Want to add texture to a wall? Don’t want to use simple wallpaper or paneling? Try embellishing with a wall niche. Display pictures, knick knacks, even the 3rd grade soccer trophy that never got thrown out.

Begin by choosing a wall for the niche, noting that the niche must be installed over one wall stud and between two other wall studs.

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After marking out the area, utilize a hammer to knock out the drywall. Once the drywall is removed, level cut of all the wall studs and then nail 2X4 blocks on either side of where the niche box will be.

Now it’s time to create the box. Measure the dimensions of the wall cavity and length and width of where it will be installed. Secure the pieces together with wood glue, making sure to wipe away any remaining glue. After priming the box, paint it in the chosen color and caulk all the joints.

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Place the box in the wall and then nail it into the wall with a nail gun. Once it is secure, attach trim and rosettes around the border of the niche. Finally cover up any cracks or joints with caulk.

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When completed, this niche adds classic charm to any wall.

 

For more information on this project, check out DIY network.

 

Say Cheese! This QardioBase Will Bring A Smile To Your Face

No one likes getting on the scale. But sometimes, it’s necessary. Whether for health improvement or just to simply be aware of your body, a scale can help determine where your health goals should be.

QuardioBase is an innovative smart scale that smiles or frowns based on the weight on the scale. This scale not only determines weight but body, muscle, water retention and even body mass index (BMI).

This scale is not only intelligent but is easy on the eyes and won’t take up much space in the bathroom.

It may cost $149 but it definitely worth the cost. So get ready for spring with this new smart tool!

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Need To Change Up A Space? Try a $40 Interior Sliding Door!

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Whether it’s a loft, cramped rental or a home that’s in need of a unique look, an interior sliding door can add interest and value to a residence. And for just $40, the price for this life-changing (OK, maybe not that dramatic) project cannot be beat.

These are the required supplies:

  • 2 plumbing flanges
  • 1 (possibly 2) plumbing angle brackets
  • Length of plumbing pipe
  • 3 “hinged loops”
  • 2 full sheets of masonite
  • 1 bundle of 2×2’s
  • 2 small wheels
  • Assorted nails/brads
  • 20 wood screws
  • Nail gun or hammer
  • Screw driver
  • Level

Using the 2X2’s, create a wood frame matching the dimensions of the masonite that will function as the door.  Then nail the masonite to the frame, making sure the surface is firm.

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Following the door construction, add wheels to the bottom of it. The best type of wheels to utilize are ones that only work in one direction.

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Next comes the top of the door function. Begin by screwing hinged loops to the top of the door with wood screws. Slide the pre-cut pipe into these hinged loops. Don’t forget to add any flanges or angled pieces necessary to the pipe.

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After leveling where the door will hang and marking the places for drill holes, attach the plumbing hardware to the wall.

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Test the door and if it slides cleanly, voila! This door will add value to the home and provide a modern touch to any home.

For more instructions, check out Apartment Therapy!