Design An Aluminum Fence With Brick Columns

Aluminum fence panels are often cast to resemble wrought iron fencing.

Installing a fence around your yard can clearly mark your property and make it more difficult for people to enter your yard. There are numerous fence types available that are used for different purposes. One factor to consider when choosing your fence is the style, as you want a fence that complements your home's exterior. If you have a brick home, you can design a fence that employs brick columns to hold aluminum panels. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Contact your local zoning board to learn the building codes you must follow when building the fence. These codes govern both the structural elements of the fence, as well as the fence's appearance.

2. Choose the bricks and fence style you're going to use for the fence. Ideally, the color of the bricks in the fence columns will match the color of the bricks on your home. Aluminum fencing is often designed to resemble wrought iron fencing, and is available in many different design styles and sizes.

3. Determine the height of the fence, based on your needs and local building codes. If the fence is mainly for decorative purposes, or to mark the boundaries of your property, a fence that's 4 to 6 feet tall can work. If you're using the fence as an obstacle to keep intruders out, or if you have large dogs that you want to keep in the yard, install a fence that's 8 to 10 feet tall. Keep in mind that the height of the fence must meet the local building codes, or you could be forced to tear it down.

4. In the U.S., call 811 -- the "Call Before You Dig" number -- to have utility lines that are buried in your yard marked. You can be fined and held liable for repair costs if you damage a line while digging the base for the brick columns.

5. Lay out the fence line by driving wooden stakes into the ground and tying a string to them. Mark the sides of the columns on the ground with spray paint, spacing them to match the length of the fence panels. Follow local building codes regarding the positioning of the fence line in relation to your property line. If you're placing the fence close to the property line, you may want to get your property surveyed to ensure that the fence is placed entirely on your property.

6. Mark the locations of the gates on the fence line. Where exactly the gates are placed depends on your layout. If the fence extends out from the side of your house and encloses your backyard, you should have at one gate along the front edge, placing the second gate on the opposite side in the backyard. If the fence encloses the front yard as well, install one gate on each side of the fence. Also, a gate in front of your driveway should be double-wide to allow vehicles and large equipment access inside the fenced-off area.

Tags: your property, building codes, fence that, fence line, local building, local building codes, your yard

Decorative Iron Handrail Components

Wrought iron handrails come in a variety of colors, including white, green, gray and black.

Whether you're remodeling a staircase with wrought iron or building a railing for your deck, most parts of an iron handrail are the same. Wrought iron rails today aren't actually wrought iron. True wrought iron was created through a metal process that is no longer used. Most wrought iron rails today are made from other metals like steel. Does this Spark an idea?

Handrail

The topmost part of a wrought iron handrail or railing is also called the handrail. The term handrail can refer to an entire large section of railing or the smaller bar that runs across the top of the fence. The handrail component of the larger wrought iron piece is the rail where your hand rests.

Posts

Most wrought iron railings feature posts, which are the vertical pieces between each section of wrought iron railing. The posts serve to connect a section of the railing and make it into one large piece. Wrought iron railing posts today are often simple and modern in their design. Historically, wrought iron posts were frequently elaborate, decorative pieces and were often far larger than standard posts today.

Pickets

When it comes to a wrought iron railing, the vertical rods that make up the railing itself are called balusters or pickets. The term baluster is most often used when it comes to rods in railings with a flat upper handrail due to the lack of a point on the rods. Traditionally, the pointed rods used in wrought iron fencing are called pickets, but, in some cases, the words are used interchangeably.

Scrollwork

Wrought iron railings are often highly decorative affairs that often include scrollwork, which is a type of decorative design typically featuring many curlicues and other decorative twists and turns in the design. A simple scroll is often used at the end of wrought iron railings, or more elaborate designs are used to create large panels to form the body of the railing.

Hardware

Wrought iron railings often require a wide range of hardware to set them in place. Shoes, or flanges--squares of round metal pieces that attach the railing to the ground--are one of the most common pieces of hardware on a wrought iron railing. Finials form the points at the tops of the rods, and brackets connect the railing to the wall. Connectors are used to bring together two separate sections of railing.

Tags: iron railing, iron railings, wrought iron, wrought iron, iron handrail, iron railing posts, iron railings often

Value Of Antique Wood Stoves

An antique wood stove

Wood stoves, which can trace their development back to the beginning of civilization, are still used today for heating. When collectors look for antique stoves, they are looking for cast iron versions. These made their first appearance around 1728 and were strong, permanent stoves that could both conduct and radiate heat at high temperatures.

Containing Fire

In ancient times, outdoor fires were community events. At home, a fire burned on clay packed into a dirt floor and was covered at night by metal to keep embers burning. By the 12th century, fireplaces were found in English castles and European inns, but ventilation was poor and smoke was a problem. Chimneys alleviated some of the smoke, and by the mid-18th century, large indoor fireplaces were common. Cast-iron stoves introduced that same century soon became popular.

Antiques

In 1930, the United States Customs Office studied the subject of antiques so tariffs could be properly assessed on furniture and other antiquities brought into the country. The government's Tariff Act concluded that an antique was defined as an object that predated mass production and was at least 100 years old. In 1993, a modification to the original Tariff Act addressed antique restoration. The new definition maintains the 100-year-old age test and adds that no more than 50 percent of an object must be restored, repaired or rebuilt.

Stove Manufacturing

There are at least 24 different names and many different styles of antique wood stoves. By the late 19th century, production of cast-iron wood-burning stoves reached its peak. Developments in natural and manufactured gas, coal and kerosene would eventually replace wood as the main means for heating and cooking. Production took place mainly in eastern urban areas, with more than 200 manufacturers listed as doing business in a report compiled by John Perry and Giles Filley in 1874.

Valued Antiques

Antique wood stoves are not just valued for their collectivity, but for their practicality. Although they vary widely in styling, all antique wooden stoves are similar in that they use a renewable fuel source, provide heating without the need for electricity and can be used for cooking if the power goes out. Depending on the model, they can be used free-standing or within a fireplace. Antique stoves can be found in use in historical settings, adding to the ambiance of the site.

Buying an Antique Wood Stove

When buying an antique stove, work with a reputable dealer. Examine the stove, making sure that all the parts are there. Check for signs of wear and refurbishing. Research the manufacturer, the style of stove and the model before purchasing. One 19th century Vermont stove company produced 2,772 stoves in the same year that a New York company reported producing 743,615 stoves. The rarer the stove, the more in demand it will be to a collector.

Appraisals

Many online antique dealers sell wood stoves. Prices in the vicinity of $4,000 are not unusual, depending on the individual stove. Some sites sell stoves that have been converted to gas or electricity, while other sites offer to convert old stoves. Appraisals for those who have stoves can be done online by submitting photographs, while other dealers prefer to see the antique in question.

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Decorate A Primitive Kitchen

Metal accents work well in a primitive kitchen.

If you prefer a timeworn, distressed look rather than glossy perfection, consider a primitive theme for your kitchen. The utilitarian space of a kitchen is the perfect setting for primitive decor, with vintage collections, junkyard gems, flea market finds, and family heirlooms being used for both functional pieces and decorating. Personalize your primitive kitchen with a tableau showcasing favorite crockery or old glass jars holding flowers, herbs, leaves, and branches from your garden. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Gather inspiration from diverse sources. Your corner thrift shop and neighborhood yard sale may have old wooden furniture, shelves, doors, drawers, hardware, frames, textiles, and utensils that can give your kitchen a primitive look. Consider international decor styles that emphasize the rustic and vintage, such as French country, Tuscan villa, Mediterranean beach cottage, Spanish hacienda, Mexican colonial, and Japanese farmhouse. Clip out pictures of inspiring images and products, and keep notes of any design features that can transform your kitchen.

2. Integrate architectural elements that exude primitive style. A stone wall and fireplace evokes a French farmhouse, while exposed ceiling beams and wall posts in dark, weathered wood have rustic charm. Stucco walls have old-world style and wood paneling recalls a log cabin in the woods. Columns and arches, rather than dividing walls, give a primitive kitchen architectural prominence.

3. Paint your kitchen in hues that evoke nature and natural materials. Leave elements such as stone, wood, and hammered tin unpainted, or add a thin coat of antique whitewash to subtly brighten surfaces without covering underlying color and texture. Cream, pale yellow, or faded cornflower blue on walls keep the look light and natural. Stone gray or, for spaces low on natural light, rosy gray function as neutrals in a primitive kitchen. Embellish walls with stenciled patterns of fleur-de-lis or climbing ivy.

4. Furnish your kitchen with vintage, distressed, and mismatched pieces. A wide plank wood dining table with benches for seating highlights an eat-in kitchen, while a smaller kitchen benefits from a chipped wrought iron bistro table and wooden folding chairs. Look for solid wood pieces with finely crafted details, such as wood joinery, burnished trim, hand-painted images on doors, tile insets, wrought iron details, or chunky, oxidized hardware.

5. Accessorize your primitive kitchen. Brass and copper fixtures, table lamps and pendant lights provide work lighting. A pegboard can showcase a collection of wrought iron skillets, and a windowsill can display a group of jars or bottles. Faded florals, stripes, toile, and paisley work well for chair cushions, cafe curtains, and dish towels.

Tags: your kitchen, primitive kitchen, wrought iron, your primitive kitchen, kitchen with, primitive kitchen, rather than

Stoke A Wood Fire

Wood stoves are efficient and can save you money.

Wood burning stoves are efficient and can save you thousands of dollars over conventional home heating systems. Heating your home with wood seems straightforward and simple, but it takes some familiarity to keep your stove running at peak performance. Too much wood and your stove overheats, too little and it goes out. Learning the correct way to stoke a fire is beneficial and will prevent you from wasting wood. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Stack two split pieces of dry wood parallel in the bottom of the stove. Crumple five sheets of newspaper and place on top of them. Place a handful of kindling on top of the newspaper, light the newspaper on fire and shut the door and open the vent on the front of the stove all the way. Wait 30 minutes.

2. Lay one more piece of split firewood diagonal across the two split pieces that are on fire. Shut the door and wait one hour.

3. Poke the red-hot coals with a fire poker. Stir them around so that they form an even bed of coals.

4. Lay two more split pieces of firewood parallel to each other on top the coals. Close the vent on the front of the stove door until it's half way closed. Wait one hour.

5. Place two more split pieces of wood on the coals if the split pieces are reduced to coals. If they are still in the form of a log and not broken down, leave them and check the stove again in 30 minutes. When there is a bed of coals, add more wood as before. Check every hour after that.

Tags: split pieces, coals more, efficient save, front stove, more split, more split pieces

Build A Stone Gate Post

Mortar is used to bond the post stones together.

From angular retaining walls in an English garden to bucolic, low-slung property walls that line curving country roads, stone provides an ideal building material for homeowners. Building a stone gate post adds both strength and substance to your property, regardless of whether you have a formal or natural landscaping design. Since most stone posts are over 3 feet tall, plan on using mortar to help strengthen and stabilize your post. Stone gate posts are typically ornamental, so don't plan on installing any hinge hardware directly in the mortar unless you'll be hanging an actual gate on the post. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Decide on the dimensions and design of your stone gate post. Will the post be free-standing or part of a wall? If it's part of a wall, you'll need to plan on constructing it at the same time as the stone wall itself in order to ensure that the stones on the walls are jointed together with the stones on your post for maximum stability.

2. Dig a 2-foot-deep footer trench for your stone gate post. Make sure the trench is at least 3 inches wider on each side than the actual post dimensions in order to provide an adequate base structure for the post. For example, if your gate post is to be 12 inches by 12 inches, then your trench needs to be 18 inches by 18 inches. Fill the footer trench with cement, leveling it off with a 2-inch by 4-inch board approximately 6 inches below the surface of the surrounding ground. Allow the cement to cure for at least two days.

3. Mark the circumference of your stone gate post with metal rebar posts and string. Pound the rebar posts into the ground just outside the cement edge and run the piece of string tautly between the rebar posts to mark the four faces of your stone post.

4. Mix a batch of mortar in a wheelbarrow, using a shovel to blend the mortar powder with enough water to create a stiff bonding material that is roughly the consistency of thick cake batter. Scoop mortar and spread it across the concrete base in a 1-inch layer. Press the base layer of stone firmly into the liquid mortar, fitting the stones together closely. Make sure the faces of the stones stay in line with the marking string to ensure a straight, even gate post.

5. Construct the rest of the stone gate post one layer of stone at a time. Spread 1 inch of wet mortar across the top of the bottom layer of stone and lay the next stone layer, staggering the stone joints between the layers to stabilize the post. Repeat this process for each layer of stone.

6. Clean smears of mortar from the faces of the stones using a wire brush. Dig the outer edge of wet mortar from between the stones in each layer to create more visual interest and expose the stones for more visual appeal.

Tags: gate post, layer stone, stone gate post, your stone, gate post, rebar posts, your stone gate

Create Wooden Words Wall Art

When you paint the letters yourself, wood letter wall art can match your decor perfectly.

Wooden word wall art is a trendy home d cor element that blends style with sentiment. When used in a child’s room, it becomes an inspiration or a way to lay claim to space; when used in a kitchen, it can greet guests with a homey family saying or philosophy. Although you can purchase wood word wall art from high-end merchandisers, craft stores make it easy for you to get what you need and put your own personal touch on the project without the big price tag. Consider your words, your decorating style and then get your wall-art project complete in one quick weekend.

Instructions

1. Choose word art from famous quotes for a classic look.

Determine the word or phrase you want to display on your wall. Write it out on a piece of paper and double-check your spelling.

2. Match your word art to the room's decor style.

Study the room in which you want to hang your word art. Take note of the room colors and overall style so that your art will coordinate.

3. Knowing how many letters you need makes shopping easier.

Create a letter-shopping list. Look at your word or phrase and count up the number of each letter needed. For example, the name Lillian would need three "L"s, two "I"s, one "A" and one "N."

4. Go to your local craft store and purchase large or medium-sized unpainted wooden letters. Some home improvement stores may also have wooden letters available.

5. Your paint style will be determined by the rest of the room decor.

Paint your wooden letters to coordinate with the style of the room. For example, if you are hanging the word "Antique" in your shabby-chic living room you will white-wash the letters or use a faux rust or iron paint treatment.

6. Hot glue guns make attaching picture wire easy.

Hot glue the back of the painted letters to a piece of decorative wood trim to display the words as one piece. When you attach the letters to another piece of wood you allow yourself the chance to place the letters exactly straight or in any design you choose with a minimum of nails.

7. Prepare the letters for hanging. Craft wood letters have holes drilled in the back for nails, or you can attach a wire to the back of the letters with hot glue and then hang from small nails.

8. Determine where you want to hang your words. Word-art looks thoughtfully placed when hung high over a doorway or entrance way or on a wall behind a bed or sofa. Hang.

Tags: wooden letters, your word, hang your, room decor, want hang, want hang your

Ideas For Decorative Well Pump Covers

Driving down the road, you may have seen odd size and shape rocks sitting in someone's yard. These rocks cover up well pumps and protect them from the elements. However, the rocks are not attractive. The good news is that there are many different ideas you can use to cover your well pump and add to the d cor of your yard at the same time. Does this Spark an idea?

House

Build a mini house to cover your well pump. You can build a house that is a mini version of your house or build an outhouse if you live in the country and have a sense of humor. If you are not talented in building or do not have the necessary tools, hire a handy man to do it for you. Making a mini house or an outhouse can use up leftover building supplies that you might having lying around. When painting your well cover, use the same paint scheme as your home.

Trellis

A trellis is a good way to cover your well pump. Use a traditional arched trellis or arbor for easiest access to the well pump, or use a four-sided cage-type trellis to hide it completely. If you have scrap wood, you can use that to make the trellis. If you have grapevines that need trimming, you could use them to make a decorative arbor. You also have the option of purchasing a premade trellis or arbor where you have your choice of choosing from wood or metal construction. Decorate your trellis or arbor further by planting an assortment of flowers or greenery around three sides of your trellis. Just in case you ever need to get to your well pump for repairs, leave one side of the trellis free of plants, and add a hinge if you have a four-sided trellis, so you can get to it.

Garden Bench

Covering up your well pump can be as simple as placing a garden bench over it, which works with pumps situated in the ground or are low to the ground. Benches come in wood, metal or cast iron and in a wide variety of styles. A decorative box situated underneath your bench can completely cover the pump if you so desire. Make your box from simple plywood. If you do want to add the box, protect it from the elements by giving it two or three coats of an exterior paint.

Shrubs

Plant shrubs around your well pump to hide it. You can either plant the shrubs directly into the ground, or plant them in pots so that you can move them around if necessary to get to your well pump. Choose from a wide variety of shrubs that grow well in your particular planting zone. If planting in pots, select shrubs that do not grow too big or ones that you can prune back each year to keep them from getting too large.

Tags: well pump, your well, your well pump, cover your, cover your well, trellis arbor

Do It Yourself Iron Fence

Iron fences can withstand almost any weather conditions.

Iron fences are easy to maintain compared to wood fences and can add appeal to any house. An iron fence does not require any maintenance after installation, whereas wood fences need to be sealed and treated to protect them against weather. All iron fences are very strong and stable. They will blow over in the wind, and pets will not be able to scratch and chew through them or dig their way out. Installing an iron fence is not as difficult as it may seem and can be accomplished by almost any homeowner. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Measure the area of the yard to determine how many sections of fence will be needed. This will also determine how many line posts, end posts and corner posts will be used. Each fence section will be approximately 6 feet long.

2. Map out where the corners and ends are going to go and drive stakes into the ground at those locations. Run string between the stakes to mark the fence line. The string should not touch the ground. Pour Quikrete into the wheelbarrow and mix with water. For each hole, one 60-lb. bag will be needed.

3. Dig holes for the posts 6 inches in diameter and 2 inches deep. Loose gravel can be added before the Quikrete if the hole is too deep. Set the post in the hole and fill the hole with the Quikrete up to 4 inches below the ground. Fill the top with dirt until the ground is level.

4. Beginning at an end post, dig three holes in the fence line in the desired direction. These holes must be 73 inches apart for 6-foot sections of fencing. Attach the first fence section into the first end post with a self-tapping screw provided with the fence section. Place a line post in the first hole that has already been dug and pour Quikrete in like the previous step. Fill until 4 inches from the ground and cover with dirt. Continue this process around the entire perimeter, making sure to check every fifth section to see if everything is plumb and square.

5. Leave the correct opening to hang the gate. Most gates are 48 inches, so the gate posts will need to be 50 inches on center. Wait a week after the fencing is complete before hanging the gate. Attach the gate to the gate post with the hinges provided. Drill self-tapping metal screws into the hinges.

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Cook With Cast Iron Pots On An Open Fire

An open fire allows cast iron pots to retain and distribute heat well.

Using cast iron pots to cook with over an open flame has several benefits. The types of cast iron pots commonly used include sauce pans, kettles and Dutch ovens. The temperature is controlled by the intensity of the heat source and the distance the pot is from heat source. By manipulating these variables, cast-iron pots can facilitate the preparation of quick-cooking items, such as eggs, and long-cooking items, such as roasts. (See Reference 6) Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Acquire a cast iron pot or a cast iron Dutch oven with legs. If the pan or Dutch oven is not equipped with legs, acquire a trivet-like device called a spyder. A spyder sits on the heat source and the pot sits on top of it. Direct contact with hot coals often causes food to burn; creating a space between the heat source and the pot allows air to circulate underneath, which promotes even heat distribution. (See Reference 1,6)

2. Season the cast iron pot or Dutch oven. Ignite a medium fire using a dense wood such as cedar, oak, pecan or mesquite. Kindling from light-wood trees such as pines or aspens will not create coals that retain heat well. Brush a thin patina of vegetable oil on the pot's cooking surface and wipe with a paper towel. After the flame reduces to hot coals, place the pot over the heat. Allow it to heat for 20 minutes, than remove. Allow the pot to cool then wipe it with a paper towel. Seasoning the cast iron creates a layer on its surface composed of polymerized fat that prevents sticking. (See Reference 2,3,6)

3. Preheat the cast iron pot prior to cooking. Preheating the pot has several benefits, such as creating an even cooking environment and promoting uniform heat distribution. Also, when cooking proteins, a preheated pan creates a sear that results in a caramelized exterior; this is a positive characteristic of the Maillard reaction, a chemical process that causes amino acids to take on the properties of sugars. (See Reference 4,6)

4. Monitor the food's progress. Check the temperature of whole beef, such as roasts, and other proteins, such as chicken and pork, by inserting a meat thermometer into its center. Allow pork to reach a minimum internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit, beef to reach a temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit and poultry to reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Other foods commonly cooked in cast iron pots over an open flame, such as stews and legumes, can be taste tested to see if they are done. (See Reference 5,6)

Tags: cast iron, heat source, degrees Fahrenheit, Dutch oven, iron pots, cast iron

Patch A Leaking Cast Iron Pipe Quickly

Cast iron pipes are used primarily to remove waste water from homes to a municipal sewage system or a septic tank. Older homes may have exposed cast iron pipes in basements and crawlspaces. These pipes are supported by hangers fastened to floor joists, so when cracks occur, the odor that emanates from the pipe is usually the first indication of a problem. Waste pipe cracks require immediate attention. Applying a patch is a job you can do with a few tools, materials and basic do-it-yourself know-how. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Alert household members of the work being done and instruct them not to run water or flush toilets.

2. Locate the leaking cast iron pipe by checking the basement floor or crawlspace surface area for puddles or signs of waste.

3. Measure the diameter of the cast iron pipe, using a measuring tape. You'll need the pipe size when you purchase the repair clamp.

4. Clean the ruptured area of the cast iron pipe with a degreasing solution. Most all-purpose cleaners work well for this type of work. Dry the surface with paper towels.

5. Remove the nuts and bolts from the pipe clamp lugs. If the nuts are tight, loosen them from the bolts using the appropriate-size wrench.

6. Expand the pipe clamp and place it over the cast iron pipe with the gasket material centered over the rupture.

7. Install the bolts through the clamp lugs and attach the nuts. Tighten the nuts clockwise with a wrench until they're snug. Final tightening is performed with a torque wrench.

8. Tighten each clamp nut clockwise to 25 lb-ft of applied torque, using a torque wrench fitted with the appropriate-size socket.

Tags: cast iron pipe, iron pipe, cast iron, cast iron, clamp lugs, from pipe

Decorate A Home Office In Mexican Country Style

A Mexican country style office has a timeworn ambience with handmade accents. Here are some components to consider. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Use a distressed table as your desk, or place computer equipment in an armoire crafted with a combination of old doors and new wood. Tables are the most available furnishing in Mexico, and you can easily adapt one for computer use by adding a keyboard tray to the underside. Can't find the right table to use as your desk? A salvaged door placed on a wrought-iron stand will blend beautifully into your Mexican country style office.

2. Slide a low two-drawer file cabinet or a rolling storage unit under the table. For additional storage, an antique wooden chest or rustic armoire is ideal.

3. Choose your lamp and chair for function. A wrought-iron lamp with a simple paper shade is perfect. A chair upholstered in antique or distressed leather will fit the ambience; for a less expensive option, choose a standard-issue desk chair that adjusts for maximum comfort.

4. Find made-in-Mexico baskets or pottery, such as a colorfully painted Talavera bowl or platter, to serve as storage for desktop clutter, including paper clips, stapler and staples, scissors, and the like. Stash pens and pencils in a similar collectible, such as a small flowerpot or vase.

5. Fashion one or more striped Mexican blankets into a window treatment - perhaps an upholstered valance or panels on cafe rods. A more subdued alternative is a simple solid-color linen or cotton, perhaps in ecru, on a wrought-iron rod.

6. Hang pictures that suggest scenes from Mexico - rugged landscapes or fiesta scenes, for instance. Or hang professional documents in Mexican frames; these frames typically feature rustic carving.

7. Add a potted plant whose shape or appearance blends with your mental image of Mexico. Some cacti will grow indoors, and instead of yucca or agave (which are outdoor-only plants), try a similarly spiky-looking member of the dracaena family.

Tags: country style, country style office, Mexican country style, style office, table your

The Average Cost Of Fencing

The Average Cost of Fencing

Chain link fences, three-rail fences, picket fences and private fences are some of the most popular types of fencing on the market. Private fences prevent your neighbors from seeing what's on your property. Three-rail fences can be for decoration but are widely used to keep livestock within a specific area. The costs can vary depending on what kind of fencing system you want. Material used and height of the fence are the largest cost factors.

Cost

Installing 300 feet of chain link fence will cost you between $1,800 and $2,500, according to CostHelper. Three hundred feet of three-rail wood fencing costs between $4,500 and $5,500. It can cost between $6,000 and $9,250 to install 300 feet of picket fencing. A 300-foot private fence costs between $3,300 and $5,400 to have professionally installed.

Cost Per Acre

Installing a chain link fence around an acre of land can cost you between $9,000 and $12,000, according to CostHelper. A three-rail fence surrounding the same area will cost between $11,500 and $13,500 (low maintenance, three-rail vinyl fencing will cost twice as much). Having picket fence around the same area can run between $20,000 and $30,000, according to CostHelper. An acre of private fence can cost you anywhere between $12,100 and $19,800.

Installation

The cost of professional installation of fencing can also vary. CostHelper states that installing a 300-foot chain link fence can be over $600. CostHelper claims that you can save between 40 and 50 percent of a three-rail fencing project by doing it yourself. You can also save the same amount if you install private fencing yourself.

Additional Costs

Your fencing project's cost will increase if you install a gate.Other additional costs are moving shrubbery and using pressure-treated wood. Building a fence on slopes and around obstacles also increases costs.

Facts

Since the price of steel fluctuates, the cost of chain link fencing is more likely to fluctuate compared with other fences, according to Service Magic, a company that provides information on home improvement. The United States Department of Commerce claims that chain link fences are the most popular, accounting for around half of the total fencing market sales.

Tags: cost between, according CostHelper, between according, between according CostHelper, chain link, chain link fence

How Do Fireplace Starter Pots Work

Burning Wood

Since prehistoric times, wood has been burned as a fuel. Wood fires can provide heat for comfort, cook food and signal people to your location. For a wood fire to produce a lot of heat and light, it requires big logs. The bigger the log, the more energy it contains, and the more energy, the brighter and longer it burns. Unfortunately, big logs also take a while to catch on fire. In order to light a log on fire, you need to have heat against it in the same spot for a long time. This heat is traditionally provided by a smaller fire source.

Kindling

The most common way to start a fire is with kindling. Kindling is dry grasses, twigs and other small, quick-burning objects. Traditionally, kindling was stacked near the base of larger logs and then lit on fire. The heat from the kindling would light the logs. Unfortunately, kindling fires are finicky. They require constant attention or else they can go out before the bigger logs light. Fireplace starter pots provide a more modern, convenient way to light fires.

Fireplace Starter Pots

A fire starter is usually made out of metal or, sometimes, clay or another ceramic material. Inside is a metal rod, usually with a soapstone disk at the top. The fire pot is filled with a flammable liquid (usually kerosene) that the soapstone sits in. To light a fire, the wand is pulled out and the kerosene on the soapstone is lit. Then, the soapstone is placed against a log. The kerosene on the soapstone burns for about 10 minutes at a high temperature. Just like a kindling fire, it provides the initial heat to get the fire going, but it does so with far less fuss.

Tags: Fireplace Starter, Fireplace Starter Pots, kerosene soapstone, light fire, more energy, Starter Pots

Make A Cottage Mailbox

A mailbox should accent the exterior of your home.

A wooden mailbox built in the Arts and Crafts style will complement your cottage's exterior. Even better, you can make your own cedar mailbox for your cottage exterior.

Instructions

1. Adjust the miter saw to make a 25-degree angle cut. Measure 9 inches on one long side of the 3/8-by-4 1/2-by-11-inch cedar boards. Mark the measurements. Cut the boards from one edge of the board to the pencil mark. You will now have two boards with a 25-degree angle cut on one end. The long side should measure 11 inches and the short side should measure 9 inches. These are the sides. The long edge is the back. The short edge is the front.

2. Draw a convex (rounded outward) curve with a flexible ruler on one end of the 3/8-by-6-by-13-inch cedar board. This is the back. The curved end is the top of the back. Cut out the curve using a band saw.

3. Rest the back edges of the sides on a work surface so the front edges are facing upright. The angled ends are the top edge of the mailbox and should be facing up. Place the back between the sides. Make sure the bottom of the back is flush with the bottom of the sides.

4. Apply a bead of wood glue along the edges where the sides meet the back. Use a hammer to drive finish nails every 2 inches through the outside face of the sides into the edges of the back board.

5. Place the 3/8-by-6-by-9-inch cedar board between the top edge of the sides. This is the front of the box. Fasten the front of the box to the sides in the same manner as the back.

6. Align the 3/8-by-4 1/2-by-7 3/4-inch cedar board to it's flush with the mailbox assembly bottom. Be sure that it's flush with the bottom outside edges of the sides, front and back. Apply a bead of glue to the joint. Drive evenly spaced nails every 2 inches through the bottom into the ends of the sides, front and back.

7. Cut a 25-degree angle on one 7 3/4-inch edge of the 3/8-by-5-by-7 3/4-inch cedar board. Use a miter saw to make the cut. This is the mailbox lid. The angled edge lets the lid to rest flush against the back of the mailbox.

8. Sand the mailbox assembly and lid with fine-grit sandpaper. Apply a wood finish. Allow the finish to dry.

9. Place the angled edge of the lid against the back of the mailbox so the lid sits flush on the assembly. Align the hinge set in the center of the lid and back. Screw the hinge set to the lid and back.

10. Align the house numbers vertically on the front of the mailbox. Fasten the numbers in place with the provided screws.

11. Drill a 1/16-inch hole in the center of the back about 1 inch down from the curved top edge. Place the mailbox on the exterior of your home. Drive a pan head screw through the hole to fasten it to the house.

Tags: cedar board, 25-degree angle, flush with, 4-inch cedar, 4-inch cedar board, against back, against back mailbox

The History Of Styles Of European Headboards

Wooden headboard

An eye-catching headboard can add much character to your bedroom. While the basic function of the headboard is to keep bed linen and pillows from falling off the bed, it also serves as a decorative piece of furniture that can enhance the look of your bedroom. Though bed frames existed as early at 3100 B.C. in Egypt, it was only during the Middle Ages that European headboards evolved into the elaborate home furnishing accessories that they are today. Does this Spark an idea?

History

The earliest headboards, made of gold, silver and ebony, were found in the beds of the Pharaohs. The ancient Greeks slept on raised beds fitted with a wooded headboard that also served as a ledge for reclining and eating. The Romans slept on couches with ornate headboards that symbolized wealth and status. According to Mike Stephenson, the owner of headboard retail store Headboards UK, in Medieval Europe, bedroom furniture was built in separate pieces -- the frame, headboard and bedding material. It was during this time that headboards became more detailed and fanciful, and anyone of noble blood had only the finest bed with a highly impressive headboard as the focal point. In colonial times, these regal and luxurious headboards were exported from Europe to the rest of the world.

Soft Surfaced

The most commonly used materials for headboards are wood and metal, however these days there are many more options available in various materials and styles. Common to most hotel rooms and modern apartment units are upholstered fabric or leather headboards. Button-tufted padded headboards in Tartan or pretty floral prints are ideal for country homes. The soft upholstered surface of these upholstered styles allows a person to sit back comfortably in bed to read or watch television. Leather wingbacked headboards give a freestanding bed a handsome and classy look.

Hard Surfaced

Closer to its history origins are wooden four-poster styled headboards with cannonball knobs at both ends, or elegant crafted wrought-iron or brass designs. More utilitarian in design are bookcase headboards that allow for extra storage space near the bed, and mirror headboards. Some hard surfaced styles also provide other functions like storage and a ledge for support or hospital care purposes.

Considerations

Headboards also help to insulate the sleeper against drafty walls, and wood and padded headboards are best for this purpose. Other things to consider are maintenance and safety. Brass and mirror headboards are not good choices for a child's bedroom and leather and wood or laminated services are easier to clean than brass or fabric.

Old World Charm

When selecting a headboard, it is important to ensure it complements the overall concept of the bedroom. With the wide variety of styles currently available in stores, it is possible to re-create the allure of Old World Europe in today's bedrooms.

Tags: headboards that, mirror headboards, padded headboards, your bedroom

Ideas For Dressing Up A Brick Fireplace With A Large Barn Beam Mantel

A collection of fat candles fits the proportions of the fireplace's barn beam.

A brick fireplace with a large barn beam provides a strong focal point for a room, and the way you decorate it serves to reinforce this area. When you're decorating your fireplace, look for rustic accessories that complement the fireplace's architecture and materials. These kinds of decorative details enhance the natural beauty of the brick fireplace and mantel. Does this Spark an idea?

Natural Elements

Because of the rustic construction of the fireplace and mantel, the items that look best as decorative accessories are objects you find in nature. During the spring, create bouquets of wild flowers and place them in a variety of jars along the mantel. In the fall, fill vases with items such as dried pomegranates, mini-pumpkins, decorative objects made from formed twine or acorns. Create a decorative base made from pine boughs and pine cones and decorate it with clusters of red and green apples next to ears of colored corn.

Art and Accessories

When choosing art and accessories for the wall above the mantel, look for items that fit the folksy/rustic style of the mantel and fireplace. Find a mirror with a heavy oak frame. Stay away from ornately carved mirrors, gravitating instead toward something plainer, such as shaker or mission-style varieties. Choose artwork that features the countryside or a still life of fruit. Add a bit of extra light and color by hanging wrought iron candle sconces. Select candles with colors that contrast with the brick, such as an eggshell or ivory color.

Proportions

Because the fireplace and mantel have been constructed with such heavy materials, look for decorative items that fit the mantel proportionately. Instead of framing your pictures with thin, aluminum frames, opt instead for some thick wooden varieties. Or collect some large Mason jars and insert your photos inside, facing outward. Line them up according to height. If you're making a candle display for the fireplace, choose fat candles instead of long, tapered candles. To provide a bit of visual interest, alternate the heights and shapes of the candles, mixing cylindrical-shaped candles in with large, ball-shaped candles.

Unusual Items

Unusual items on the barn beam mantel immediately catch the eye's attention. Hang a couple of pairs of ice skates from the front of the mantel, hiding the nails under some pine boughs and berries. Show off a collection of vintage wines by creating groupings of three or five on each side of the mantel. Embrace the child within by bringing out your antique tin toys or train set.

Tags: fireplace mantel, items that, barn beam, candles with, made from

The History Of Spanish Style Homes

Spanish-style homes are popular today in Southern California and Arizona, as well as Florida and Texas. The architectural style originated in the ornate buildings of 17th- and 18th-century Spain. California missions of the18th-century California also influenced this style. Spanish-style homes combine simple red roofs and stucco walls with complicated wrought iron detailing and colorful tile work. Does this Spark an idea?

Identification

When people talk about a Spanish-style home, they're usually referring to several characteristics: flat or gently sloped red-tiled roofs; eaves that don't overhang; arches over doors, windows and/or porches; stucco walls; and asymmetrical external construction, such as an off-center door.

Spanish Baroque

Spanish baroque architecture of the 17th and 18th centuries was richly ornamental. The Plateresque and Churrigueresque styles of the late Spanish baroque period were especially intricate, featuring curved shapes and visual movement. Bertram Goodhue designed the Administration and Botanical buildings in San Diego's Balboa Park for the Panama-California Exposition in 1915; these buildings feature carved facades, and exemplify Churrigueresque style. The Panama-California Exposition helped spur the Spanish eclectic architectural movement of the 20th century.

Mission Revival Style

Mission revival style began in the 1890s. Architects based the style on the California missions that the Spanish Catholic colonists built in the mid- to late-18th century. The revival houses borrowed the missions' architectural elements such as bell towers and roof parapets. They also featured recessed front porches. The Beverly Hills Hotel, in Beverly Hills, California, is a good example of a grand Mission-style building, featuring a large faux bell tower that is part of the exterior wall.

Spanish Eclectic

Architects built Spanish eclectic (also called Spanish revival) houses from about 1915 to 1940. This architectural movement blends mission with elements of Moorish, Byzantine, Gothic and Renaissance styles. The simple mission bell tower and stucco walls might share space with more ornate details, such as turrets, ornamental tiles on floors and walls, stained-glass windows, and intricate wrought-iron bars over windows and balconies.

Monterey Style

Monterey style, which had its heyday from 1925 to 1955, is a variation of Spanish revival architecture: Its standout design element is a second-floor balcony that almost always runs the entire length of the house. The house's main roof shades this balcony. Two-story houses are more common in the Monterey style than in the mission or eclectic styles. This style also has some design elements in common with the colonial revival: For example, the front porches often feature columns, and pediments (triangular structures above rectangular ones) appear where they didn't in strictly mission and eclectic styles.

Tags: stucco walls, architectural movement, bell tower, Beverly Hills, California missions, eclectic styles, front porches

The History Of Sahara Airlines

The History of Sahara Airlines

Sahara Airlines was a pioneer in India's private airline industry. It survived repeated price wars and ever-changing competition to become one of the country's largest airlines. In 2009, the company is part of Jet Airways, India's third largest carrier. Jet Airways had total sales of more than $1.4 billion in the fiscal year of 2006 to 2007.

Sahara India Pariwar and Deregulation

The Sahara India Pariwar Company was started in 1978 in New Delhi, India. Though the company started out in finance, it quickly grew to become one of India's largest conglomerates, with the company producing everything from housing to films. As the Indian government began to deregulate the country's airline industry in the early 1990s, Sahara India was one of the first companies to enter this new market. They formed Sahara Airlines Limited, and began operation in December 1993.

Sahara Airlines

Sahara Airlines started with just one plane, a Boeing 737. During a training flight in early 1994, the plane crashed, and the company purchased another similar plane. This period, following Indian airline deregulation in the early 1990s, was marked by dozens of small carriers that opened for operations, then quickly closed due to price wars. Sahara Airlines was one of only two companies that were able to stay in business during this period, though profit margins were slim. In the 1997 to 1998 fiscal year, the company earned $1.2 million in profits on $78.7 million in gross sales.

Rebranding

In an effort to increase profits and stay viable, Sahara Airlines began to focus on building the company's brand. In 1999, the company added four helicopters to its fleet of eight airplanes. Helicopter tours and transport were a growing market in India at the time, and Sahara faced little competition. In late 2000, Sahara Airlines changed its name to Air Sahara, and started a loyalty club for frequent fliers called the "Sahara Crown Club." In 2001, Sahara Airlines started a travel website to allow customers to book flights and travel packages. The site was hugely successful and helped increase market share.

The 21st Century

As Indian airlines engaged in repeated price wars throughout the early 21st century, Sahara Airlines focused on marketing. In 2002, the company purchased a hotel in Mumbai to complement its successful website travel packages. Sahara also marketed itself aggressively towards business travelers, and by late 2002, more than 40 percent of the company's customer base was comprised of corporations. In 2004, following further deregulation, Sahara Airlines was the first company in India to operate an international flight from India to Sri Lanka.

JetLite

From the start of Indian air deregulation in the early 1990s through the early 21st century, only two private airlines, Sahara Airlines and Jet Airways, were able to maintain continuous operations. In April 2007, Jet Airways agreed to purchase Sahara for $338 million. Sahara was renamed "JetLite," and acts as Jet Airways' low-cost carrier. The newly merged company started operations with more than 90 aircraft and 10,000 employees.

Tags: Sahara Airlines, early 1990s, more than, price wars, Sahara India, airline industry, Airlines Sahara

The History Of Dinky Toys

The History of Dinky Toys

The Meccano Ltd toy company introduced Dinky Toys in 1934. Dinky Toys, a line of die-cast miniature vehicles, delighted children and adults until they ceased production. Dinky Toys closed in 1980.

Origin

In 1931, the English company Meccano offered railway accessories for their Hornby Railways model train sets. The small cars they produced with metal bodies and rubber tires led the company to launch the Dinky Toys line in 1934.

Early Flaws

Early Dinky Toys, made from cheap zinc alloy, suffer from deterioration called zinc pest. This corrosion causes early Dinkys to pit, break and eventually crumble.

Types

Dinky Toys quickly expanded from cars into trucks, airplanes and ships. For a time, the British company offered miscellaneous Dinky Toys, including doll houses and doll house furniture.

Design

Generic cars marked the early production models. Due to their success, Dinky Toys soon evolved into finely detailed specific car and truck models.

Closing

By 1980, overwhelmed by international competition, the Dinky Toys manufacturing plant in Liverpool, England, closed. The Dinky name was acquired by other companies, but never achieved the popularity of original Dinky Toys.

Tags: Dinky Toys, Dinky Toys line, History Dinky, History Dinky Toys, Toys line

Design A Bistro Kitchen

Informal eateries and wine bars are the inspiration behind bistro kitchen designs.

The bistro kitchen design is known for its timeless beauty and charm. Bistro designs seem to conjure up images of quaint eateries in France and Italy filled with specially brewed coffees, baguettes and slow-cooked foods. Trying to capture the feeling of a European bistro in your own home may seem like a difficult task, but there are some steps you can take to turn your kitchen into an informal eatery of your own. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Choose a color scheme that reminds you of French promenades and charming eateries. Think about shades and colors that complement black, white and red combinations and keep a cohesive look throughout your kitchen design.

2. Replace your current kitchen table with a bistro set. Most bistro tables are round and accompanying chairs are decorative. Some sets are wrought iron but you can find wood varieties that have bistro appeal to them.

3. Add an old world clock to your kitchen. Both bistro and French country kitchens have historic-looking clocks in them. This is an inexpensive way to add to the ambiance you are trying to create.

4. Hang a large pot rack if possible. Use it to hold a selection of your best pots as well as other decorative touches such as ivy strands.

5. Replace your flooring with black and white checkered tile patterns. Or, find other items that have black and white shades in them to add to the bistro feeling.

6. Add a colorful awning to a kitchen window. Awnings are typically found on outer walls; however, you can install one on an inner wall to further your design concept. You can also add tiered cafe window treatments to your kitchen windows.

7. Display typical bistro articles such as bread baskets to house baguettes and other bakery items, decanters and coffee-related products. Display large coffee mugs in deep reds and chocolate browns in a noticeable place. Display other items such as old wine bottles and colorful tiles and tea towels.

8. Hang vintage French or Italian paintings in your kitchen. Choose ones that are reminiscent of the European countryside as well those that have French still life in them.

Tags: your kitchen, black white, that have, bistro kitchen, kitchen design

Log Cabin & Lodge Decorating Ideas

Get inspiration from nature when decorating a log cabin and lodge.

Bring the outdoors in when decorating log cabin and lodge interiors. Whether its a small or a large space, inspiration from textures and colors of the outdoors can create a rustic yet comfortable and stylish atmosphere. Create a warm and inviting space reminiscent of outdoor activities like hunting, fishing and skiing when decorating in the log cabin and lodge style. Does this Spark an idea?

Colors

Colors for log cabin and lodge decorating are inspired by nature. Look at the colors from your surroundings such as the sky, plants, trees, the ground and water. When choosing colors for your fabrics and paint, use deep, rich colors like forest green, brown, tan, red, orange and blue.

Fabrics and Prints

Thick, warm fabrics such as blankets of wool and flannel are typical in log cabins and lodges. Pendleton and Navajo blankets are often used in log cabin decorating. Likewise, blankets, window treatments, lamp shades, kitchen towels and bedding are often printed in plaid, gingham, stripes or animal patterns, such as images of bears, moose, fish or deer. Likewise, quilted fabrics like blankets, table runners, tablecloths and place mats are also typical of log cabin and lodge styles.

Furniture

Leather upholstered furniture is typical in log cabin and lodge decorating. Decorate with a distressed leather couch and armchairs with studded facings for a rugged look. Likewise, you can decorate with twig furniture with bark finishes, such as a rustic twig bench or chair. Log cabins and lodges may have a large, rustic, wooden table, chairs and beds that range from smooth, varnished white pine to rugged, aged barn wood like chestnut or hickory. For a contemporary look, place a glass tabletop over natural driftwood to create a living room coffee table.

Accessories

Hang handmade quilts and Navajo rugs on walls or cover a floor with a Southwestern rug. Cover your windows, especially in the kitchen, with cafe curtains in a plaid or gingham print. Use wrought iron accessories like candleholders, wall hooks and table lamps. Likewise, decorate with lanterns, oil lamps, large woven baskets and duck decoys. Decorate a wall with snowshoes, canoe paddles, antique skis, antique guns or mounted fish, animal heads and antlers. Fill an umbrella stand with walking sticks, fishing poles or ski poles. Frame maps of trails or scenic photographs.

Tags: cabin lodge, decorating cabin, decorating cabin lodge, when decorating, when decorating cabin, cabins lodges

Decorate A French Country Kitchen

Whitewashed walls add to the charm of French country kitchens.

Rustic charm is one way to describe the French Country style of decorating. The graceful mood of a French chateau coupled with pastoral elements makes for some of the most comfortable kitchens. To make this style work, you need to start with the right colors along with the right balance of old and new pieces. Once you figure it out, you'll have a kitchen that is as chic as it is relaxing. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Choose soft colors for your kitchen palette. You can decorate with any color on the color wheel as long as you keep it muted or whitewashed. A good way to think of colors in this sense is sun-bleached. Put a whitewashed green color on your walls for energy or a pale blue for a cool tone. Yellows and reds are warm and with subdued shades, they generate a welcoming aspect to your kitchen.

2. Decorate with fabric that brings texture to your kitchen. Linens, toile and paisley prints offer something different in that they look and feel different. A linen table runner draped over a curtain rod and linen placemats add charm with very little effort. Toile gives your kitchen another look entirely, with an emphasis on color. Cover barstools and seat cushions with fabric to add interest throughout the room.

3. Select a mix of modern and antique or reproduction furnishings to decorate your kitchen. Shop antique malls and bazaars for items that are distinctive and will add to your style. An odd assortment of barstools or dining room chairs is pleasing. Look for candlesticks, bowls, decanters and canisters that create a one-of-a-kind kitchen.

4. Decorate your walls with pieces that add interest. Wrought iron adds contrast to French Country kitchens. Hang pictures of rural French provincial scenes. Another option for pictures is animals, such as the rooster, or fruit. Sconces and chandeliers put the rustic in this style. Antique plates, cookware and clocks also enhance this look.

5. Use rugs to bring the look of your kitchen together. For a more rustic look, simple wool and jute rugs add the right amount of charm. For a look that is more formal, select a rug with a floral pattern.

Tags: your kitchen, French Country, kitchen Decorate, this style, with fabric

Dress A Basement Window

Glass blocks are well-suited for basement windows.

Basement windows are often overlooked by homeowners because they are so small or out-of-sight. That doesn't mean they can't be dressed up. Many options are available for basement windows. Remember that these windows are close to the ground and usually in a more public location, so use window treatments that not only provide decorative elements but privacy, insulation and protection when possible. Plan your window treatments to coordinate with the rest of your room's decor for a professional finish. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Hang a straight curtain rod above the window, and add floor-length drapes to the rod. Use a decorative curtain rod, such as wrought iron, to give the window treatment a finished look. This look works on even small basement windows. The curtains add color and texture to the room and give the illusion of a larger window when the curtains are closed.

2. Install colored blinds or neutral ones, depending on your decor. Consider blinds with insulation products to conserve heat and reduce noise since both aspects are important considerations in many basements. You can use blinds and drapes on the window to serve multiple purposes.

3. Cover the window in window film. Use tinted, frosted or patterned film, according to your tastes. Film not only decorates your window, but it also adds privacy, filters UV rays and helps prevent condensation from forming on the glass. Cut window film to fit the window, and peel the back off so it sticks to the glass.

4. Add wide, decorative molding to the border so the window stands out. Use dark or white trim, or paint it to coordinate with your decor. A wide border makes a statement in a room and helps a small basement window look bigger. You can find molding that is plain or ornate. Shutters look attractive inside windows with wide molding.

5. Replace the window with glass blocks. These provide complete privacy while still letting in plenty of light. Most basement windows need added privacy because anyone who walks by can see inside. They also have insulating qualities to help keep the basement warm.

6. Use wood or wood-replica shutters on the window. These are easy to use, add full privacy when closed and give a warm, finished touch to the room. You can get shutters in any color, and they suit various styles, such as country, nautical or cottage.

7. Install an ornate wrought-iron bar to the window. This bar adds protection and security to the basement but also dresses it up with the black, decorative metal.

Tags: basement windows, basement windows, coordinate with, small basement, window film, window treatments

Find Cheap Wrought Iron Chandeliers

If you're diligent and patient, you will find the perfect inexpensive chandelier.

Decorating your new home or redecorating your existing home can be lot of fun ... and it can be expensive, too. If you're thinking about installing a wrought iron chandelier, you'd be wise to learn find discounts on wrought iron chandeliers.

Instructions

1. Locate a reputable seller of wrought iron chandeliers, find the one you like and ask about a discount. Your local home improvement store likely has a small selection of wrought iron chandeliers, and regularly offers sales. If it's the last one in stock, if the box is smashed, if it's the display chandelier of a line that's been discontinued, ask for a discount. If it is an online seller, look for an online discount code by searching for the name of the company followed by "discount code." If the seller can't offer a discount or you can't find a discount code, look for another seller that does.

2. Use a cashback service, which reimburses you a percentage of your total purchase. Generally, you must be a member of the cashback program. There are thousands of well-known companies participating in these cashback programs, but to get the cash back, you must purchase items from these companies through the cashback service's website. Some stores offer up to 20 percent cash back when you buy through the cashback service website.

3. Purchase a used chandelier from an online auction site. You can find used but well-cared-for chandeliers offered by individuals who have redecorated their homes. Check to be sure the seller has a good feedback rating, to avoid problems down the road.

4. Watch the classifieds for estate sales, moving sales and large garage sales.

Tags: wrought iron, cashback service, discount code, iron chandeliers, cash back, cashback service website

Decorative Wrought Iron For Windows

Wrought iron window boxes are an elegant addition to a home's decor.

Wrought iron brings an interesting element to a home's window d cor. The curved metal pieces add flair to the window treatment and enhances the beauty of home's exterior and interior. Window grills, planter boxes, curtain rods and hardware can give the window treatments the extra touch needed in a Victorian, Mediterranean or Spanish d cor. Does this Spark an idea?

Wrought Iron and Glass

Decorative wrought iron can add style and elegance to a room's interior. The intricate design of the wrought iron is visible from the exterior of the home and can add to the appearance of a Spanish or Mediterranean architecture. Elaborate designs in wrought iron can also enhance a Victorian home.

Window Grills

Window grills install over the exterior of window and are elegant while providing security for the home. A bar design is a simple way to add a measure of security to the home, but homeowners can also select a window grill with a design in the wrought iron. The grills can cover the bottom half of the window only and expose the glass on the window while keeping the home secure.

Window Boxes

Wrought iron window boxes are planters that hang on the outside of the house. Adding colorful flowers that are visible from the inside of the home can add to the d cor of the interior rooms as well. The metal window boxes filled with colorful flowers give a home an old world and elegant charm.

Tall Windows

Cover tall windows with a large wrought iron window treatment to enhance the oddly shaped windows. Tall and narrow windows can be difficult to cover and disguise with traditional curtains and drapes. Wrought iron adds an intricate design to the room d cor while solving the problem of decorating the unusual window. The metal grills can decorate the oversized windows in a front door as well.

Wrought Iron and Drapes

Wrought iron rods, tie backs and hooks can add to the d cor of window treatments. The hardware for window treatments can add a decorative design to simple curtains in a room decorated with a Tuscan or Italian room d cor.

Tags: iron window, window boxes, window treatments, wrought iron, colorful flowers

Date An Antique Iron Gate

Most modern metal gates are made from mild steel rather than true wrought iron.

Dating any antique can be a challenging task, but iron gates can be even more challenging because they often don't bear the mark of a manufacturer. Most likely, a historical investigation is in order. A trip to your local library can shed light on who owned and even who built the home or business where the gate was recovered. Next, you need to research the company that installed it by dating it. If you are unable to find information, or if you do not know where the gate was initially salvaged, there are a few other indicators, such as the art style of the piece; however, this can be misleading and should not be the sole basis for an evaluation. As a final method of determining a given piece, you can have it analyzed at a lab. By using a gas chromatograph you can determine the chemical content of the iron. The chemical composition of the iron can tell you whether it is made before or after 1974. According to the RWI company, 1974 saw the introduction of mild steel to market which was cheaper and stronger than traditional wrought iron, thereby rendering it obsolete.

Instructions

Historical Investigation

1. Write down the address of where the wrought iron gate was salvaged and take that to the local library. Confer with library staff to search for the history of the building in question.

2. Call the construction company if it is still in business. They should be able to tell you the origin of the piece. Another avenue at this stage is to contact previous owners of the building and attempt to find more information.

3. Document any photos you find of the building where the gate was located and attempt to cross reference and document the age of the photos themselves. If you're unable to find more information, at least you can use this as a starting point.

Dating Via Art History Influences

4. Hitting the books at a library is an indispensable step in researching local buildings.

Go to the local public library and borrow a few books on the subject of art history.If you have a general idea of the age of the building where the gate was salvaged, it may offer some insights and allow you to narrow the age down to at least a few decades.

5. Compare the stylized designs of the wrought iron gate to that of the art of historical eras, noting the time period that the designs suggest.

6. Inspect the detail work on the gate and look for hammer marks as opposed to welding marks, which indicate that the gate is of a more modern construction. Hammer marks indicate that an item was made in a workshop rather than on the assembly line.

Dating Via Chemical Analysis

7. Use a metal file to sand away a sample of the metal of the gate. Choose an area where it will not be easily noticed, which could hurt the value.

8. Package the filings in a small zip top bag and then use the phone book to locate your nearest material diagnostic laboratory.

9. Call the diagnostic laboratory to ensure that they are able to work with metal samples. Once you've found an appropriate laboratory, mail them the sample including routing instructions, asking them to determine whether or not the metal is wrought iron or in fact mild steel.

Tags: wrought iron, where gate, mild steel, building where, building where gate, diagnostic laboratory, find more

Make Chandeliers

Tealights for a chandlier

In the spirit of original chandeliers lit from candles, you can make this chandelier by grouping together small crystal tealight holders.Create a chandelier that you can hang anywhere, without wiring or electricity. Imagine decorating your garden with softly lit tealight chandeliers, placed sporadically to cast a glow over your plants and patio. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Assemble your materials, choosing your tealight holders to suit the décor of your home or garden. You can find tealight holders in all shapes, sizes and colors at your local home, discount or dollar store. Select tealight holders with smooth sides so that gluing them together is easier. The local home improvement store will cut the glass for you, or you could cut the corners from a 4 by 6 inch picture frame glass with a glass cutter.

2. Glue four of the tea light holders together in a row with the waterproof adhesive. Liquid Nail works well, and it comes in a clear variety. Make four sets of four holders, glued together in a straight line.

3. Make four sets of two holders, glued together at the sides. These will be placed between each of the four string sets as you form a star shape.

4. Form a cross with each of the four string sets meeting in the middle of the glass round. Glue any part of the tea light holder that it touches to the glass round and to each other. Turn your cross shape into a star shape by adding one set of two string holders in between each of the four string holders and glue them in the same way as the others. Allow the glue to dry completely.

5. Cut four pieces of fishing line or wire, if you prefer, about twice the length that you wish for your chandelier to hang, plus 8 inches.

6. Flip your chandelier over and fit one piece of fishing line so that the middle is on top of the glass round where one of the two-string light holders meet one of the four-string holders. Glue the fishing line to the glass round wherever it touches. Repeat this step for all four pieces of fishing line. Let the adhesive dry.

7. Flip the chandelier back over and tie the fishing line together at the end with a strong knot. Hang this over your hook, adjusting as needed to make the chandelier hang straight.

8. Place a tealight into each holder and enjoy your chandelier.

Tags: fishing line, glass round, tealight holders, each four, each four string

Install Wood Staircase Balusters

Balusters complete the look of a staircase and help protect anyone from falling from the stairs. Installing balusters is not as hard as it seems and with a few mathematical calculations, some basic tools and an extra set of hands the average do-it-yourself homeowner can complete the project in a weekend. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Plan ahead by knowing the length of your staircase, the width of the balusters and the spacing of your balusters.

2. Notice how the balusters have a peg-like end and a flat end. The peg end is the bottom and the flat end is the top of the baluster.

3. Measure the distance between the bottom of the peg-hole, also called a sill late, in the staircase up to the handrail. Remember to measure twice and cut once to help save yourself time and headaches from incorrect cuts.

4. Drill holes in your stair tread if you don't yet have holes in which to fit the balusters. You'll need to use the measurements for spacing your balusters from Step 1 to determine where to drill a peg hole for each baluster. Talk to your local home improvement store to find a special stair drill bit that will create a hole and a secondary thread for the baluster bolts.

5. Create a small hole with a drill in the bottom of each baluster into which you'll place the baluster bolt. After the bolt is secure in the baluster you can screw it into the predrilled hole in the stair tread. If you'd rather not use baluster bolts you can also use construction glue on the peg-end of the baluster to secure the peg in the stair tread.

6. Attach the baluster to the hand rail with carpenter's glue and two 2-inch hardwood trim nails. Use putty and either matching stain or paint to cover the nail holes once the baluster is attached.

Tags: stair tread, baluster bolts, each baluster, spacing your, spacing your balusters, your balusters

The Cost Of Wood Vs Vinyl Fences

When considering which type of fence to install, cost is a major factor. Wood and vinyl fences are two types of fences that are popular in the fencing industry. The cost to install either of these fences involves material and labor. The following are facts to consider when you want to install either wood or vinyl fences. Does this Spark an idea?

Cost

When it comes to choosing a wood fence and determining the cost, there are a variety of options: cedar, redwood, chestnut, white oak and pine. Whichever type you decide to install, wood fencing is by far cheaper than vinyl fencing. This is because wood fencing gradually rots, needs annual maintenance and may need to be replaced within five to 10 years. The price of installing a wood fence varies from $9 to $15 per foot depending on the length of the wood.

Cedar and redwood fencing

Cedar and redwood fencing are popular wood fences because they are attractive and resistant to decay. Because they do not rot as easily as other types of wood, their prices are extremely high, especially for redwood because it is a rare commodity.

Vinyl fences

Vinyl, with its various styles--privacy, semi-privacy, picket, ranch --varies in price. However, many vinyl installers believe that if consumers factor in the long-term effect of installing the vinyl fence, then they will realize that vinyl fencing is the cheaper way to go. The durability of a vinyl fence cannot be contested, and that is why the upfront cost of vinyl fencing is so high. Vinyl fences can last as long as 50 years and a warranty is always provided. The price range for a white vinyl fence is usually more than $17 per foot.

Factors

If you are not a do-it-yourselfer, the bulk of the cost associated with installing either a wood fence or vinyl is the labor cost. The work involved in installing fences is labor intensive and the rate per hour to install a fence is $20 to $25. The rate may be higher to install specialized wood like redwood fencing.

Goals

If you own your home and plan to live there for more than 15 years, it is cost effective to install vinyl fencing, especially since vinyl fences comes with warranties. On the other hand, if you own your home and plan to live there less than 10 years, it is a wiser economic decision to install wood fencing.

Tags: vinyl fencing, redwood fencing, vinyl fence, wood fence, wood fencing, your home plan

Make Mirrors Work For Your Room

Decorative mirrors add light and depth to a room.

Adding mirrors to the decorating scheme of your room can change the look of the room in a number of ways. These versatile decorative pieces can affect a room's light quality and how large the room appears. Aside from these aesthetic factors, mirrors serve the practical purpose of allowing you to see what you look like before you leave the house. There are many ways you can arrange your mirrors that will help you take advantage of both of these elements. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Select mirrors that match your decorating theme. For example, if you've decorated your home in a beach theme, choose mirrors with seashells glued on the frames. If it's a Tuscan style you've chosen, look for mirrors with wrought iron frames. These will visually reinforce the room's motif.

2. Create a mirrored wall to reflect your whole room. If you're working on your living room, hang self-adhesive mirrors from floor to ceiling. Set your furniture away from the wall to allow the full room to reflect in the mirrors. Choose visually stunning artwork and accessories to display on the opposite wall; work with brilliant colors and interesting shapes to give the room a visual boost.

3. Hang mirrors inside closet doors and the closet itself. If you have a light inside the closet, they'll help reflect its light, making it easier for you to see what you have in the closet and also provide you with mirrors when you're dressing.

4. Make a centerpiece mirror display for your dining room or coffee table. Lay down a mirror with a deep frame. Place items such as floral arrangements, fall fruits or bottles of wine of different sizes on the mirror. The mirror will bring a different visual element to these arrangements than they would on their own.

5. Dress up a fireplace that you don't use by placing a mirror and candle display in it. Stand the mirror against the back of the fireplace. Position assorted candles in front of it. Place the tallest ones in the back of the candle arrangement, or use a candelabra.

6. Set up mirrors in dark corners where you've placed floor lamps. Select mirrors that are as tall as the lamps and position the lamps slightly away from the mirrors so that you can avoid glare; the mirrors will help the corner seem brighter.

Tags: mirrors that, away from, inside closet, mirrors with, Select mirrors, Select mirrors that, will help

Use Old Log Timbers Inside A Modern Home

Make use of old logs in new ways to warm up a modern home.

One of the major complaints about a truly modern house is that its design often feels cold and sterile. This is due to the simplicity of design that is employed when creating a modern structure, which results in a sleek and unencumbered look. You can warm up the cool backdrop of modern design by adding touches of texture to the room with log timbers, either in the addition of architectural elements or with furniture. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Furniture

1. Build a rustic accent table out of old timbers. Use the whole timber for the legs, creating a fat, squat base for either a card table, coffee table or sofa table. Purchase a round top composed of different woods to make a one-of-a-kind coffee table and bolt the legs onto it. Or build a top from logs, either full pieces or ones sawed in half lengthwise.

2. Cut four timbers to make a four-poster bed frame. Insert arched wrought-iron pieces between the posts for a headboard and footboard and attach with wood screws or bolts.

3. Cut logs in half lengthwise and build a box to use for storage at the foot of a bed or as a toy box in a child's room. If you are using cedar logs, this makes a nice linen-storage cedar chest.

Architectural Elements

4. Add long timbers to the ceiling of an open floor plan to create visual interest, either as beams or trusses.

5. Cut a piece of timber to fit over a fireplace and mount it to the wall by carving out a portion of the back and using mounting hardware. Place carved corbels underneath for additional support.

6. Divide a room visually by adding a floor-to-ceiling timber to use as a column. Attach the timber to the floor and the ceiling with bolts.

7. Use timbers at the entry and porch to create an inviting entrance to your home. Replace wooden porch posts with log timbers. Frame the doorway with logs to create visual interest.

Tags: coffee table, create visual, create visual interest, half lengthwise, visual interest

Store Patio Furniture For The Winter

During the fall, many people enjoy sitting outside in the cool air on their patio furniture. As the temperatures start to drop, it is time to store patio furniture for the winter. When you store your patio furniture, it will last much longer than subjecting the furniture to the harsh winter elements. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Clean off all of the dirt and grime built up over the last 6 months or more. Use a soft scrubbing cleaning solution and sponge to clean the furniture.

2. Inspect the patio furniture for any wet spots. Dry the furniture as needed.

3. Bring the pillows and umbrellas into the house for safe keeping.

4. Stack lightweight chairs on top of each other. Stacking the chairs will give you more storage space for other furniture. Also, stacking the chairs will give the chairs additional weight to stay on the patio during winter storms if indoor storage isn't available.

5. Carry the chairs to a garage or other indoor storage space. If you don't have indoor space available, place a large chair cover over all of the stacked chairs.

6. Carry lightweight tables to the storage area. Cover the tables and stack them on top of the chairs if there is room.

7. Stretch heavy-duty patio covers over the heavier pieces of furniture which will stay outside during the winter months.

8. Tie the covers onto the furniture so it doesn't blow away in harsh winds. Tying the covers down will also keep water and snow from blowing onto the surface of the furniture.

9. Brush off all of the snow collecting on the furniture throughout the winter months. As the snow melts, water has an uncanny knack of finding its way to the furniture, causing damage when it freezes again.

Tags: patio furniture, chairs will, chairs will give, during winter, indoor storage, storage space

The Best Way To Remove Paint From An Iron Porch Railing

Painted Railings

As most do-it-yourself homeowners know, iron porch railings are extremely difficult to remove paint from. There are many small areas that are hard to reach, and if you can reach them, there are so many of them that it would be impossible to complete the job. Luckily, there are a few quick methods of paint removal that will make the job a little easier.

Heat

Use a heat gun or small propane torch to heat the paint. Applying heat to metal will cause the paint to flake. You can easily remove the paint with a wire brush or scraper thereafter. Don't heat one area too long, and keep the heat moving over the surface. Always check the paint on the old railings for lead. You can purchase a lead detection kit at your local hardware store. Never heat up paint that has lead; the fumes are dangerous.

Pressure Washing

Remove old paint from an iron porch railing using a pressure washer. The pressure washer should be at least a 2000-psi pressure washer. the pressure washer will come with various colored tips that insert into the end of the pressure washing wand. Use the green, yellow, or white tips, and never use the red tip--the red tip could damage surrounding areas.

Abrasive Blasting

One of the most effective ways to remove paint from iron porch railing involves abrasive blasting. You can purchase or rent a small hand-held abrasive blaster from your local tool rental store or hardware store. The abrasive blaster will remove the smallest areas of paint and leave a shiny finish. It will also roughen the surface, which will provide for good adhesion of the new paint. You can use a number of different abrasive materials, such as glass beads, walnut shells, and sand. Always wear eye goggles and a dust mask.

Tags: pressure washer, iron porch, remove paint, abrasive blaster, from iron porch, hardware store, heat paint

History Of Bronze Casting

Bronze is one of the most durable, attractive and basic alloys discovered by man, yet it remains a popular metal thousands of years from its discovery. Understanding the history of bronze casting is an important part of appreciating this versatile metal as well as the objects it is made into.

Discovery

Bronze was discovered some time before 3,000 BC and replaced the softer copper and less reliable flint or stone tools. Its first casting was into hammers and other tools.

Classic Uses

In classic Greece, bronze was considered the best metal ever used by man. They cast it into shields, weapons and even statues.

Wartime

Originally cast into church bells, the strength of bronze was put to good use by early users of gunpowder, such as the Ottoman Turks, who used bell casting and founding techniques to create massive cannons.

Monuments

Even after iron and steel production eclipsed bronze's strength and utility, bronze was (and still is) cast into molds to make statues, including war memorials in Washington, D.C. such as the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and the USMC War Memorial (also known as the Iwo Jima Memorial).

Tradition

The techniques used to cast bronze have remained virtually unchanged in almost 5,000 years, though bronze formulas have changed to suit the needs and uses of the casters.

Tags: cast into