Advantages of Indoor Plants

Plants in an apartment or a house have several uses. They embellish the scene, make it comfortable and welcoming. They also help purify the air in the house and serve as an exciting and varied leisure. Specific care is actually needed because the plants are much more than simple adornment, they are more like living ornaments. It is source of personal satisfaction and pride for the person who gives all his care and attention to these plants.

The arrangement for the plant you just purchased or that you have offered is crucial and decisive. For the well-being and beauty of your plants, the temperature of the room in which they are located should not be too high and should remain as constant as possible.

Indoor plants love the natural light but not direct sunlight which can burn their leaves quickly. Choose a place that is airy and bright enough for your plants. Generally, the best location is near the windows.

Plants also resent drafts. A narrow entrance without clarity is not conducive to the installation of plants. Remember also to install a green plant in your bathroom if it has a window. A Cyperus (Umbrella Plant) is an aquatic plant with a resistant and undemanding fragrance that thrives in the bath.

Also be sure not to expose your plant near a direct source of heat (or air conditioner). The plants are very sensitive to temperature variations. If possible, collect several plants together to reconstitute a mini micro-climate favorable to their development. To this end, porches, conservatories are ideal because they are full of light, are immune to temperature and do not suffer from dry air caused by heating.

Plants are generally well liked in that extra living space. But be careful of excess heat in summer and too cold in winter. The plants that are most vulnerable can be protected if the premises are not heated.

Signs of poor health in plants, what to do?

It is essential to recognize the symptoms of ill health of a plant to remediate them. The leaves are the main indicator: yellow leaves, softened, dried lets you know there's something wrong.

If the soil is dry and leaves area falling, your plant needs water.

If plant is getting too dry, you can float it by immersing the pot in a tub of water for several minutes so that the water gets thoroughly into it. It will do the plant good.

But keep in mind, watering too often can damage the plant roots. If the plant leaves have become too soften, stop watering the plants and if necessary remove the pot and drop it on sheets of newspaper to absorb excess water.

Pests or diseases may also come devastate your plant. The easiest way to identify the origin of the disease or the nature of pests is to cut a piece of the stem and take it to a botanist who can identify the cause of the malaise of your plant and explain the procedures (treatment, potting mix, fertilizer).

Some resistant plants require little care.

The Clivia is a plant with broad green leaves that produces beautiful orange flower stems. This plant likes to be cramped in its pot, but even too much attention does not guarantee producing a beautiful flower.

Elephant's Foot (Beaucarnea recurvata) is a beautiful succulent plant native to Mexico consists of a broad stem (like a trunk) in shape of elephant's foot. It's a plant that grows slowly but surely and has the most beautiful and pleasant effects for all types of interior.

The leg goose (Syngonium podophyllum) is a plant with foliage climbing or falling depending on your choice with variegated leaves is beautiful. This plant does not require much care and grows very quickly (with minimal watering).

Orchids are undoubtedly difficult to maintain, but their flowers are so beautiful and last for weeks or months. Even if your orchid offers a single bloom, compared with a bouquet of flowers that lasts a few days, this flower will embellish in a much more better way.

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Granite and its Uses in Construction

For all those who are planning to construct a house or a building, granite will seem a familiar term. Granite has grown to be one of the most popular construction materials and has earned an important usage spanning across flooring, slabs, countertops, etc. Granite floor tiles as well as granite tiles are better than other natural stone tiles and are widely used in the construction of monuments, houses as well as other structures. The number of 
Granite Suppliers India has risen considerably over the past few years. These Granite Suppliers in India provide top quality Granite Floor Tiles. The Marble Tiles from India as well as granite tiles from India are known to be of premium quality and they come relatively cheaper. 
Marble floor patterns tiles and granite floor tiles both are growing to be two most preferred options for those constructing new homes or buildings. 
Granite can be regarded as an igneous rock, very durable as well as dense; due to its durability it has earned its usage in various domains. Another property of granite is that it is very resistant to heat and other forms of stress. Apart from all this, granite comes in elegant patterns and designs. It is porous in nature but that does not mean than granite stone is difficult to clean. You can easily seal the layer of granite using a ‘sealer'; as a result you can easily clean the surface. Granite therefore is used widely in creating slabs and kitchen counterparts. They also have the quality of not being scratched easily. Thus if you are using a granite slab for your kitchen you need not fear scratches through knifes. 

Granite has a grainy texture and displays a good number of color varieties. The colors may range from dull gray to peachy pink as a result granite floor tiles come in various patterns and designs. 

The uses of granite can vary; they can be used widely as:-

Countertops: Granite countertops are known to be very elegant looking and durable. The very presence of granite countertops in your kitchen or room can enhance the entire appeal of your home. 

Building Stone: Granite is widely utilized as a key building stone for the construction of houses and buildings. Since granite has hard texture and durability, it can serve good purpose as a major construction material. 

Floor Tiles and Wall Panels- Granite tiles from India is now adorning the bathrooms and kitchens of the affluent. Such granite floor tiles and tiles are capable of enlightening the look of a very dull looking room. 

Paving Stone: Another use of Granite is as a paving stone. The stone is used widely in constructing drives ways, walkways, etc. 

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Thanks to the original auther

Before You Hire a Plumber

Hiring a plumber or a home contractor should not be a complicated process, but there are several factors that you should take into consideration. Choosing the right plumber for your home is a delicate process that necessitates lots of research and preparation. If you just pick any plumber from the phonebook, the chances are that you might encounter a home contractor that does not have your best interests at heart. While this advice is not groundbreaking by any means, they serve as a friendly reminder of what you should already know. By following the below key points, you will derive the best value from these professional services. 

1. Names & References 
Some plumbers develop positive reputations for their responsible nature and hard work. As such, the best way to look for a plumber is through word-of-mouth. Talk to your friends, neighbours, and coworkers for recommendations. If you live nearby, then it is likely that the plumber will be in near proximity too. 

Also, you should do sufficient research regarding your plumber's reputation. One possible method is to look up the references online, or gather opinions through word-of-mouth. For more details, you can also examine the plumber's legal and business records, thus ensuring there are no offensive problems at hand. 

2. Costs 
Always confirm the costs of your plumbing services before the actual visit. The last thing you want is to be surprised by a bunch of miscellaneous fees that you know nothing about. If there are additional expenses, you should consult with the plumber beforehand so that you have the money prepared. It is also good to compare hourly rates between the plumbers, so that you could employ the one that best matches your financial status. 

Since some plumbers charge an hourly rate, including a flat fee for the house visit, make sure you always clarify these rates before the visit to avoid any misunderstandings. The plumber should be able to give you a clear time estimation of the job. Before the visit, you are best prepared if you know the approximate price of your services. 

3. Plans 
An efficient way to save money is to minimize your plumbing needs. That is not to say you should start fixing the drains and pipes by yourself, but you are better off familiarizing yourself with the problem before hiring a plumber. If you know what you want as the homeowner, then the plumber will naturally follow suit. 

The plumber should be able to describe the repair job in detail. This is especially true if the job requires specialized knowledge. Vague descriptions translate to a lack of knowledge, which basically wastes your time and resources. You can identify an expert plumber by the confidence and the clear details in the instructions. 

4. Reliability 
Make sure the plumber gives a guarantee to follow up any work in progress. Some plumbers may not be as reliable as others, which you will find out through research and references. If you do find a reliable plumber, you should keep in contact in case you need their services again. They will be happy with more business, while you will be happy with a plumbing job well done. 

Keep in mind that not all licensed plumbers deliver good services, but those without certification are less likely to be trustworthy than not. Having a license to operate is a sign that your plumber is familiar with the industry. 

5. Experience 
You should record your experience with the plumber afterwards. If you feel satisfactory with the work, please consider hiring the plumber again in the future.


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Types of Tabels

Tables of various shapes, colours, heights and sizes are designed for specific uses:

• A bedside table, nightstand, or night table is a small table used in a bedroom. It is often used for convenient placement of a small lamp, alarm clock,glasses, or other personal items.
• A drawing table usually has a top that can be tilted for making a large or technical drawing. It might have a ruler or similar element integrated.
• A gateleg table has one or two hinged leaves supported by hinged legs.
• A coffee table is a low table designed for use in a living room, in front of a sofa, for convenient placement of drinks, books, or other personal items.
• A chess table is a type of games table that integrates a chessboard.
• A refectory table is a long table designed to seat many people for meals.
• A dining room table is a table designed to be used for formal dining.

Historically, various types of tables have been popular for other uses:

• Tripod tables were very popular during the 18th and 19th centuries as candlestands, tea tables, or small dining tables. Their typically round tops often had a tilting mechanism. The folding top enabled them to be stored out of the way (e.g., in room corners) when not in use. A further development in this direction was the "birdcage" table, the top of which could both revolve and tilt.
• Pembroke tables were first introduced during the 18th century and were popular throughout the 19th century. Their main characteristic was a rectangular or oval top with folding or drop leaves on each side. Most examples have one or more drawers and four legs sometimes connected by stretchers. Their design meant they could easily be stored or moved about and conveniently opened for serving tea, dining, writing, or other occasional uses.
• Sofa tables are similar to Pembroke tables and usually have longer and narrower tops. They were specifically designed for placement directly in front of sofasfor serving tea, writing, dining, or other convenient uses. Generally speaking, a sofa table is a tall, narrow table used behind a sofa to hold lamps or decorative objects.
• Work tables were small tables designed to hold sewing materials and implements, providing a convenient work place for women who sewed. They appeared during the 18th century and were popular throughout the 19th century. Most examples have rectangular tops, sometimes with folding leaves, and usually one or more drawers fitted with partitions. Early examples typically have four legs, often standing on casters, while later examples sometimes have turned columns or other forms of support.
• Drum tables are round tables introduced for writing, with drawers around the platform.
• End tables are small tables typically placed beside couches or armchairs. Often lamps will be placed on an end table.
• A Billiards table is bounded tables on which billiards-type games are played. All provide a flat surface, usually composed of slate and covered with cloth, elevated above the ground.
• Table tennis tables are usually masonite or a similar timber, layered with a smooth low-friction coating. It is divided into two halves by a low net, which separates opposing players.
• Poker tables are used to play poker.

Bed Sheet Trands

Trends in bedsheets can never become redundant as they are the only eye catching cover which enhances beauty and charm of bedroom. Winters and summers have their own trends in linen as with the changing season, moods and comfort level fluctuate as well. Covering bed with linen is not about Trends in bedsheets can never become redundant as they are the only eye catching cover which enhances beauty and charm of bedroom. Winters and summers have their own trends in linen as with the changing season, moods and comfort level fluctuate as well. Covering bed with linen is not about pomp and show but comfort and luxury. Bedroom charm can only be realized with bed veils which reveal your own style and appeal.

Markets and shops are binged with different varieties of bedsheets showcasing inspirational and innovative ideas. Bedsheets can be chosen from different trends for instance mixture of styles, contemporary, and over the top opulence. Layering your bed with beautiful linen, velvet throws and faux fur will make your guests overwhelmed.

There are some specific seasons when you would like to throw simple and light bedspreads. There is a trend to adjudge the quality of good bedsheet through the number of threads per square inch of material. Bed linen comes in two types: one which is longer than the mattress and tucked inside from the corners, second is that type of bedsheet which is equivalent to the size of mattress and has elastic corners that can be stretched over the mattress. Here are the latest trends of bedcovers which will be ideal for every home and can be easily avail from market:

White cotton trend

White cotton bedsheets are cool and soothing in summers but need a transition in winters where woolen sheets are needed. Cotton sheets are non-allergic and can be avail in numerous styles and overwhelmed designs. ‘White’ is always in and provides bed an aesthetic touch if the bed is covered with couchedcushions.

Cotton is not only cheap but safe and reliable too as it helps keeping you cool. White is most preferred colour in cotton but with the commercialization of every thing cotton bedsheets can be escort in wide range of designs and colours.

Silk linen trend

Silk linen brings luxury and looks aesthetic on softcouch mattress enhancing the overall appearance of bedroom. Silk is most exquisite and luxurious item to be purchased and even the most sought after expensive fabric. This is what makes it luxurious as the luster and slipperiness of silk can’t be found in any other fabric.

Silk bedsheet can be avail in most distinctive and enormous colours with ethnic designs carved over it. Earlier silk was prominently found in saris only, but today silk bedsheet are highly demanded during the special occasions such as weddings. Though pure silk is extremely expensive for layman and to cope with this manufacturers have been producing duplicate silk by merging silk and other material in order to make it affordable for every person.

Satin linen trend

Satin sheets are fabulously soft to touch and fragile so as to set the moods while you over it. Satin is made up of woven polyester which drapes smoothly over the bed to give you restful sleep. The glamorous satin bedsheets can be chosen from bold and saturated colours such as aubergine, purple, gold, pink, silver, luster black and some of the delicateshades like sage, French blue, blush and mushroom.

Satin comes in different styles and mixed fabric as the labor which requires in the production of satin makes it quite expensive. However, satin has wide variety among colours and ethnic designs.

Flannel linen trend

Flannel sheets are the best suited bedsheet during winters and nothing makes you cozier that this fabric. Sleeping on flannel bed spread is a way to get warm and cozy sleep during colder nights. The spread sheets can be avail in exotic prints such as animal, floral, square flannel bedding, Victoria flannel bedding and cascade stripe flannel bedding.

Flannel bed spreads are made up pure cotton and synthetic fibers which produces a warmer fabric. These bedsheets are available in distinctive range and variety in different shapes and in all sizes.
pomp and show but comfort and luxury. Bedroom charm can only be realized with bed veils which reveal your own style and appeal.

How to Work with a Residential Architect

Residential architects are professionals and have to stay up to snuff on the local building codes. Like lawyers, they like to bill by the hour, so the remodeling project can get out of control financially. Follow these steps to avoid this situation.

* Become a Remodeling Guru. There are plenty of great remodeling shows on TV just now. Watch them. Learn what's involved in a do-over. Which special trades need to be involved? Electricians? Plumbers? Get an idea of which features are top priority. Laminate floors or natural stone? Granite counter tops or a cozy breakfast nook?
* Nail Down the Budget. This is the one area where most homeowners fall down. Building materials are expensive, especially if the idea is to follow green building practices. Labor is also expensive. Neither expense should be skimped on, but priorities must be established, noted, and stuck to.
* Shop Around for the Right Architect. Architects don't just draw blueprints, they are also conceptual artists. As such, they each have their individual styles. Make sure the architect's personal style agrees with the concept being considered. Does the architect embrace green building concepts? Does he or she think eclectically? Is the neighborhood homeowner association going to be an issue?
* Be a Good Communicator. No architect is a mind reader. Before meeting with her, have a clear concept of the work to be done. Be ready to change plans to meet local building codes and reality constraints, but be clear about the basic concept. Wasted time is wasted money.
* Be Sure the Architect and General Contractor can Work Together. In the best possible scenario, the blueprint guy and the building contractor already have a working relationship. Ask the architect for references, but be sure to talk to three or four to find one you have a good gut feeling for as well as an impressive portfolio.
* Know Which Specific Services the Architect will Provide. Not all remodels require a full-service treatment. Again, billable hours are king. Some areas will need more focus than others.
* Be Prepared to Collaborate with the Architect. As stated above, architects are artists in their own rights. With any experience, they know what works with what, structurally as well as style-wise. Provide the idea of what's expected but be prepared to modify it. That expertise is one of the things being paid for.
* Don't Have Piecemeal Communication. Don't waste time bantering. Take the architect's recommendations as a package, digest them, and develop a response. This approach works much better than playing tennis with each detail one at a time.
* Use Your Digital Camera as the Remodeling Project Progresses. Take digital pictures and email them to the architectural firm rather than having them visit the job site every day. This makes life easier on everybody. The work rhythm isn't interrupted as often, everything is documented, and the fundamental idea is enforced: billable hours are reduced.

Advice For Architectural & Design Professionals, Builders And The Layman Using Architectural Columns

How to Properly Implement Architectural Columns Using Classic Design Elements Be honest....most of the time when your next design or architectural project begs for classic design elements, particularly when involving architectural columns, don't you dust off your old college text books looking for what to use, how to use it and where it should be placed? Don't you spend lost hours trying to figure out proportion, scale, intercolumnation [what's that?], how the entablature relates to the decorative columns and entry? Do you feel overwhelmed at all the options, rules and specs? You are not alone!

When designing a home or commercial building, architects and designers interested in utilizing classical design elements have many choices indeed, including which style of architectural columns and capitals should be used and where they should be placed. In order for the design of the project to blend well with the architectural columns and other elements being used, an Architect

One who has completed a course of study in building and design, and is licensed by the state as an architect. One who draws up plans.'); return false">Architect may desire the assistance of an architectural products specialist who can advise on both overall style and how that style will work within the established Orders of Architecture.

The Orders of Architecture And Why They Matter

The classic Orders of Architecture are Roman Doric, Roman Ionic, Corinthian, Tuscan, and Composite styles which include not only element proportions but include specific design motifs. Additional styles of decorative capitals that don't fall within this framework, but are still very popular today include Empire, Scamozzi, and Temple of Wind. The Orders of Architecture define not only the look of these ancient styles but also follow a particular set of mathematical rules that manages the actual proportions of the decorative columns.

Financial, educational and like institutions want their communities to perceive them as a substantial entity, with strength and a superb foundation. For architects needing to convey this message, the Tuscan and Greek Doric styles should be considered. Tuscan architectural columns are simple and elegant in design and have a powerful, clean appearance as they give the impression of supporting a great deal of weight. Greek Doric decorative columns are also very straightforward and substantial in design. The simple Doric capital combined with weighty fluting and no column base; convey a permanence and authority not found with other styles. In today's marketplace, Tuscan architectural columns can be ordered in both wood and fiberglass while traditional Doric decorative columns can be found in wood.

Based on the rules of the Orders of Architecture, proportionally the diameter of a Tuscan column would be seven times the height of the column. The diameter of a Greek Doric column would be five and one half times the column height. This means that these architectural columns would be shorter, stockier, and more solid in appearance than other column styles, and work well with certain building styles, especially structures that are large in scale.

Additionally, an architect looking for decorative columns that are more graceful in appearance should consider the Roman Ionic and Roman Corinthian architectural styles. Roman Ionic and Roman Corinthian architectural columns are available in fluted and smooth versions, which lend themselves to many interior and exterior applications including luxurious residences, upscale retail, commercial and hospitality facilities. The crowning element of these decorative columns, the capital can be enhanced with a number of decorative options including the Roman Ionic and Corinthian, the Greek Erectheum and Greek Angular Ionic in addition to Scamozzi, Empire and Temple of Wind style capitals. The grace and charm of these styles of architectural columns are self evident in their popularity and can be specified in either fiberglass or wood shafts, with the decorative capitals being available in a number materials including, FRP, foam, gypsum, and stone composites.

The diameter of a Roman Ionic column is based on nine times the height of the column, with the Roman Corinthian diameter at ten times the column height. These more slender proportions cause these styles of architectural columns to have a more graceful and elegant appearance.

Why Intercolumniation Is Important To You

Within the framework of the Orders of Architecture the architect/designer must also take into consideration intercolumnation, that is, the distance between architectural columns, measured between the bottoms of shafts. This is critical when several decorative columns are being used and are also the focal point of the building elevation. Even an untrained eye can pick up improper spacing of architectural columns that can throw off the entire design. Saint Peters Square in Rome, Italy is an incredible example of a perfectly proportioned intercolumnation design.

Also when considering intercolumniation proportions and spacing, bear in mind the location of windows and doors on the building and how the architectural columns relate to these architectural features. Poorly spaced decorative columns can block windows and entries or make elevations look unbalanced. Intercolumnation may be of more interest to homeowners and residential builders as decorative columns could block natural light streaming into the residence.

The proportions of intercolumnation are fairly complex and include the relationships between architectural columns, column heights and widths and the expanse of the elevation. One should consider consulting with a manufacturer's or supplier's architectural product specialist for expertise and guidance. These individuals are often not just experts on classic architectural elements, but can help to "translate" the Orders of Architecture to today's best construction practices.

Working with the Right Supplier of Architectural Products

For architects, builders and designers to achieve the best possible outcome for a commercial building or private residence, one should consider working with a supplier of architectural products that has an in-depth understanding of classical architecture and how it relates to today's home and commercial building styles. While many architects have a general understanding of classical styles and proportion, a manufacturer or supplier of architectural products that staffs architectural product specialists will be able to offer critical guidance throughout the design and building process.

Once one begins working with a knowledgeable manufacturer or supplier of architectural products, he or she will gain a better understanding about key design elements such as the transition of the capital at the top of the column, how the capital will translate to the soffit (without being too narrow or too wide), or how far the building's overhang must reach so that the bases of any architectural columns used will not project past the edge of the concrete pad or porch, and why the proportion of the entablature in relation to the decorative columns is key.

Conclusion

The challenge for architects, builders and designers lies in locating a manufacturer or supplier of architectural products that truly understands classical design and how this translates to the overall aesthetics of the final project.

Even a skilled professional in classical design can benefit greatly from working with an experienced supplier or manufacturer of decorative columns and other architectural products. This partnership will help to ensure that proportions, balance and style of architectural elements enhance the exterior of residential and commercial buildings not compete with each other. When the design of architectural elements is managed appropriately, along with proper sizing and spacing of decorative columns based on classical rules, the building will have a harmonious and aesthetic appearance that remains timeless.