Decor Essentials
Bay window treatments
Having bay windows may give your home an interesting architectural element but could present a real challenge when it comes to window treatments. Because their size and dimensions are different than all the other types of windows, locating curtain rods and other window treatments might be difficult. Acquiring a single curtain and rod set for each individual window resolves this problem for most folks. A low cost and creative way to dress these windows can be with the stained glass decals which can be found on the Internet or in your neighborhood home center. Stained glass will still allow in the necessary sunlight, while at the same time providing you added privacy. Employing sheers on either all or some of the windows is another approach to manage the difficult balance between privacy and having enough light. Some folks like to dress up these windows with either flowering plants or smaller pieces of stained glass art. Another terrific choice can be either opaque or sheer window shades that can be fabricated for the unusual size and shape of these windows. A nice decorative element for those who do not really care about added privacy might be to hang a simple swag or valance around it. Advice to help you search for bay window treatments is available at Best Bay Window Treatments.
Replacement windows are a good investment in your home
One of the best upgrades that anyone can make is installing new replacement windows. Putting in new windows has many benefits, with one of the biggest being the increase you will realize in the overall worth of your property. Another advantage is that you will probably see greater energy economy in your house, and might even qualify for government tax credits. Since these windows are excellent at keeping the heat out during the summer and in during the winter, you will spend less on energy costs throughout the year. Your retailer will give you all the details on any possible tax credit that you may qualify for. Applying some kind of ultraviolet filtering tint to your windows can further develop their energy efficiency. You will be surprised at how much this can impact the amount of money you pay cooling your home, and is a great strategy to protect your flooring, furniture and artwork from fading. Assistance to help you look for the best replacement windows is available at WWW Replacement Windows.
Window treatments
An excellent approach to enrich the overall ambiance of any home is to put in light filtering shades on the windows facing the sun. Stopping the heat and UV rays while allowing the sunlight to brighten a home is the main purpose of these types of shades. The translucent design tones down and disperses the sun’s light and helps block the heat to keep the room cool but well-lit. Installing curtains or interior shutters will keep anybody from looking in after night falls.
You may choose beautiful honeycomb shades or other styles of horizontal shades, as well as vertical shades which are light filtering. Fabrics are offered in an assortment of materials and colors. Custom styles are doable and allows you to order shades in colors and styles that blend perfectly with your decor. Window structure will not be a problem as these shades can be made in any shape necessary. Light filtering window shades are a economical, energy-efficient solution to your home upgrade project. Visit here for additional recommendations to help you acquire window treatments.
Does the electric guitar prodigy in the house behind your’s drive you crazy? Stay cool by installing soundproof windows!
When remodeling your home, installing soundproof windows will certainly give you the maximum return for a modest cost. Sound abatement, privacy, energy savings, air infiltration abatement, and home marketability, may be achieved by this relatively simple improvement. In that respect there are few remodeling jobs which will deliver as much benefit as soundproof windows. Replacement windows, even dual pane windows, can’t give you the noise and air infiltration abatement benefits, or the energy savings in highly enhanced insulation found in soundproof windows. Additional benefits are more privacy and peace of mind, and the added improvement of the property for those interested in placing the residence or business on the market.
Walls, floors, and ceilings are usually not a noise problem within almost all well-constructed homes and businesses. Roughly 75% of the noise we hear comes in by way of the windows, with most of the rest coming in through the doors. These usually are the ‘thinnest’ areas inside any house. No matter if it is a barking dog, highway noises, or even the little drummer boy next door, you will benefit from exceptional noise abatement together with improved insulation. Replacement windows are a pricey non-solution when it involves sound pollution. Even double-pane replacement windows cannot come near to matching the sound reduction levels created by soundproof windows. Dual pane windows can achieve a noise decrease of about 15%, however soundproof windows easily reduce the noise by up to 95%.
Thermal curtains and drapes
Insulating a house is a vitally important issue we all want to deal with, but a lot of us never contemplate our curtains as being a part of the solution. Your curtains serve both decorative and practical functions, such as helping to blend the room decor or allowing you privacy, and home insulation is the best practical use of all. A top quality thermal curtain blocks drafts from entering your room with a layer of non-shrink, sturdy cotton fabric with a layer of acrylic foam. Very sturdy, thermal curtains require no extra attention and can be readily washed in a machine. In addition to the insulation advantages of thermal curtains, they will be able to also reduce some noise and irritatingly bright sunlight as well. All the other attributes you look for in home curtains, such as designs, colors and sizes, can be found with widely obtainable thermal curtains. Thermal curtains will be a passive method of insulating one’s house, and therefore of benefit to the environment. Before you jump in your car and drive to the nearest thermal curtain store, check out what you can buy on the Internet to acquire a clear idea of what they will cost. Continue reading and find help in locating thermal curtains.
Arched window decoration
Window treatments for arched windows is often kind of difficult because of the unique shape of the upper arch. The three primary concerns with arch window treatments are how well they match your interior decoration, how frequently they are opened and closed, and the degree of privacy you want. Purchasing accents for any arched window normally means having your treatments custom designed. There are a number of options for decorating the arched part of the window such as fabric shades custom-designed to both fit the top of the arch and open and close easily. You could also install a customized valance to the top of the arch which will permit the curtain fabric to drape along both sides of the arched window. If privacy isn’t an issue you can open the top of the arch and install a blind where the bottom and top parts of the window meet. A Roman shade looks great as a treatment for the upper part of the arched window, coupled with blinds to provide privacy at the bottom of the window. This site might be of help in obtaining arched window treatments.
Add a decorative touch to any home with etched window film
Window film decorations resemble glass, stained or plain, and lend privacy and beauty to the home. It’s very easy since all you have to do is apply the film sheet to the window of your choice and you replicate the look of expensive glass for a mere slice of the price. Among the decor accents you can take delight with window film are etched glass and beveled glass effects. All flat glass surfaces are suitable for a decorative film sheet, and applying them to the window is easy and you don’t need an adhesive. Applying film to windows that aren’t clean will produce bubbles and other imperfections, so wash the glass with warm water that is slightly soapy and then thoroughly dry it before installation. Arches, sidelights and transoms are usually tough windows to find nice treatments for, but with these decorative films you can adorn any shape of window. The best kinds of decorative window film could be reused in a different window in case you change things around. With only a few exceptions you want to attach the film to the inside of the window, but some times you can purchase film for the exterior as well. Assistance to help you find decorative window film is available at Decorative Window Film Products.
Enhance your windows with new curtain rods
Interior decoration has taken a big step forward in recent years with the advent of decorative curtain rods. Decorative window accents are a simple way to add grace and a note of allure to any room in your home. Unlike those white metal rods, decorative rods come in a full selection of materials, designs and colors. Any curtain rod should serve two roles, practical and decorative, accenting the decor of your room while hanging the curtains and drapes. Folks who are more traditional in their tastes tend to like brass or wood curtain rods, but it is chrome or glass for the modern look. DIY home improvement is easy with curtain rods, since all you need is a level, a drill and a screwdriver. As soon as you open up the package make sure the manufacturer has included all the necessary hardware, anchors and screws. The first choice you need to make in the installation process is whether to mount the rods on the window casing or the wall, then comply with the manufacturer’s directions from there. Need additional help with your questions about curtain rods hardware? Then go to Curtain Rods Decor.
Insulated curtains
Insulating your home involves a lot more than just the stuff behind your walls, because you can effectively reduce the heating bills merely by hanging up insulated curtains. Curtains have both decorative and privacy functions in a house, but curtains can also stop drafts and trap heat. The material used for making make insulating curtains is typically poly or cotton fabric with a layer of acrylic foam, which will help to keep a room warm in the winter and cool in the summer. An insulating curtain can be machine washed without any trouble, as the fabric is always shrink-resistant and extremely durable. When the cotton and poly fabric has been heat bonded to the acrylic foam, the curtain will last a very long time. When using the denser insulating curtains you experience a greater sense of seclusion because both wind drafts and noise are dampened. No matter if it is on the Internet or in a neighborhood store, a wide array of insulating curtains is available in nearly any color or style you want. You should do a lot of comparison shopping prior to buying, both on the Internet and at local stores, since prices will vary widely. Advice to help you look for insulated curtains is available at Buy Insulated Curtains.
Discount curtains
Whether you shop on-line or in-store there is such a broad array of curtain styles available you could dress every window in your house with curtains you bought for a bargain. Curtains hanging in the doorways of the house, constructed of strings of beads or beaded bamboo, add a sense of privacy to your home. Curtains for the kitchen are the least expensive, and you can design a nice, cozy atmosphere in your kitchen with gingham or calico. Curtains for the dining room need to match both the decor of the room and the size of the window. Luckily there is a wide array of curtains on the market that will match your color scheme, which is most important for your living room. Curtains for the bedroom are fashioned around factors like privacy issues, the gender and age of the occupant(s) of the room. If you have long windows anywhere in your house you should think about scarf top curtains, which typically look fine on longer windows. Purchasing shower curtains is a snap compared to buying window curtains, with a wide selection on the market on-line or in-store. Advice to help you find discount kitchen curtains is available at Best Discount Curtains.
Modern interior design emphasizes stunning geometric shapes for which track lighting is an ideal match. With the power to move, add and remove lights along the track you possess the versatility to focus light on furniture, artwork, or any part of a room. With a wide variety of styles, colors and designs you can have a lighting system which will supply all the ambient accent and task lighting you desire. These lighting systems are ideal for illuminating a particular area where you are performing tasks or for accenting a favorite piece of furniture or art. Two of the most popular kinds of lighting fixtures are pendant lights and spotlights and you can be incredibly creative if you use both. Spotlight heads tend to be more functional while the hanging pendant lights tend to be more fashionable, but both designs will match any contemporary decor. To provide depth and warmth to the room you can aim light directly at the wall to create a softer background, called “wall washing.” Additional help in searching for modern track lights is conveniently located here.
Kitchen lighting
The most versatile room in your entire house is probably the kitchen, and for all the activities that take place there you need a number of light sources. Kitchen lighting must be as multi-faceted as the kitchen itself, with lots of of task lighting for the cooking area, ambient lights for the dining area, and decorative lighting to add decor accents. Unless you use the kitchen strictly for cooking, there needs to be ample ambient lighting for eating, entertaining, and casual family gatherings around the kitchen table. The most effective ambient lighting system in the kitchen is track lighting regulated by a dimmer to set the mood with a twist of a dial. Track lighting makes the finest task lighting, with lights targeted on specific areas such as the sink, counter-tops, and the stove. Track lighting in addition to under-the-cabinet lighting can supply suitable layers of light for all the work you put into making a meal. A good deal of reading can occur in a kitchen such as poring over a cookbook, reading your paper, or kids working on homework, so be sure you have adequate task lighting for all that. Your selection of lighting fixtures is also a crucial decision, and these days the best-selling bulbs are energy efficient fluorescents. Best Kitchen Track Lighting will help with any questions you might have.
Cable track lights
A terrific combination of decoration and function, cable track lighting is dollar for dollar one of the best investments you will ever make in your residence. Because you can target the lights in any direction you choose, you can align them to focus on specific areas for the assorted tasks you perform. The length of this type of lighting improves the ambient lighting in any room by covering more area than a cluster of lights in the middle of the ceiling. Your first step toward putting these lights up is to calculate the best length for the lights to provide the illumination you need. For both task and ambient lighting one of the most popular fixtures is pendant lighting, although for task lighting alone some people install spotlights. There are many interior decor options available when you mix and match the various colors, finishes, designs and styles of track lighting systems. Installing these lights isn’t much of a task if you have a little useful experience and a few tools. Lots of homeowners might think twice before attempting to put these lights up themselves, in which case it is best to hire a professional contractor. Suggestions to help you search for cable track lights are found at Best Cable Track Lighting.
Table lamps
With one flip of a light switch you will create a beautiful atmosphere for your home with the clever use of home lighting options. Bring out the best in your home decor, and hide the flaws, by the intelligent use of decorative table lamps, which can convey the right atmosphere you seek for every room in your house or apartment. There are two primary styles to consider whenever you are shopping for table lamps, traditional and contemporary; the more modern styles are sleek, feature bold colors, and have shades with metallic accents, while the classic styles emphasize copper, brass and other metals for the lamp base, and linen or silk for the shades. Please consider the purpose of the area you are going to decorate, and allow the functional to lead the decorative instead of the other way around. Probably, the best tip you can get is to stick to a single lighting style in the same room or even the entire house. And so, for example, you are not combining antique lamps in the same room with contemporary halogen lamps. Lampshades are available in as many varieties as lamps, and are just as crucial to the appearance of your room as the lamps. For individuals who want to improve their decor without spending a lot of money, consider getting new lampshades to modernize old lamps. Bear in mind that the ultimate goal of your lighting scheme will be to provide adequate light so that you don’t strain your eyes while working or playing at home. This Internet site will be of help in buying a decorative table lamp.
Solar security lights
Solar-powered security lighting devices are the hot new trend in security devices since they can produce reliable lighting all night without requiring a ton of money for energy bills. Solar powered lights consist of a solar panel placed for the most exposure to sunlight, the lighting units, and a cable connecting everything. Obviously it is essential that you locate the solar panel in as much direct sunshine as is practical, and that you get a cable of sufficient length to connect with the lighting units. Among the concerns you may face about conventional security lighting systems are electrical blackouts and deliberate sabotage, but with solar-powered security lighting these are not problems since the sun is up during the day, and the light units and the solar panel can be placed out of the reach of night time thieves. Providing security for your household is one important concern, another is to discourage accidents and mishaps that can happen in the dark around the outside of your home. There are many modes or applications for solar-powered security lighting, from providing flood lighting over a large area, or a spot light for a specific location. There will be many areas of your home you will want to illuminate, such as the front porch, the garage door, the back patio, or the driveway. It is a smooth process to set up solar lights, as well as cost efficient and environmentally safe. Require additional help with your inquiries about solar security lights? Then visit Best Solar Security Lights.
Rope lights
A rope light is an extended, bendable PVC tube which holds various 1/2 watt micro bulbs spaced about one inch apart, and has both outdoor and indoor uses. A light rope will last roughly 25,000 hours before the tiny bulbs burn out, which makes them maintenance-free because you do not replace the bulbs. The PVC tubing is perfectly safe and the 1/2 watt bulbs will only become a little warm, so there isn’t any burn hazard. Let your imagination run wild with these lights and install them almost anywhere to light up just about anything. Rope lights can be easily installed indoors to light up dark staircases and closets, to decorate mantles and shelves, or to go around doors, windows and entry ways. These lights also work fine outside to bring light to your patio or deck at night, or illuminate the walkways along the side of your home. While the majority of rope lights maintain a steady level of light, you can get ones that flash in different sequences, or even appear to chase after one another. Visit here for further information to help buy LED rope lights.
Unfinished wooden furniture could be exactly what you need to add beauty and warmth to your home. This type of furnishing is most often crafted out of top quality wood including mahogany and birch. One of the best things about these pieces is that they will give you a more handmade and rustic look and provide a room with a more comfortable feeling. You will be able to find a wide array of pieces to select from in many different styles including bookcases, dressers and beds. These pieces are typically extremely well made and will probably stay in your family for generations. Among the variety of furnishings on the market, Amish styles and designs have become celebrated for the simple lines and high quality workmanship. You can readily put on a finish coat of your choosing to protect your wood furniture from being damaged. You will be able to save lots of cash by purchasing pieces that are unfinished because the manufacturer forgoes the cost of finishing and should pass the savings to you. Want more assistance locating unfinished wood furniture? Try All Unfinished Wood Furniture.
Cabinets for audio components
Cabinets designed for audio equipment offer both ample storage space for your audio equipment, and a primary focal point for the room decor. If you want a more traditional look it will be a good idea to get solid wood or wood veneer cabinets, however for a more modern look go with steel or aluminum. There are two underlying design approaches to choose from and those would be having the audio equipment itself be the focus of the cabinet, or making the cabinet just look like a regular piece of furniture. Glass cabinet doors are a great way to display the audio equipment as the focal point of the cabinet, but as a regular piece of furniture you need to coordinate the color of the cabinet door with the overall decor. To get an even more dramatic look you might consider an art nouveau approach with a custom cabinet in the shape of a guitar or any other unusual design. Modern-day audio technology has become ever-expanding, and you may need to think about allotting added shelf space for the upcoming audio gadgets as they are developed. Space for speakers will also be an essential concern, as you have to decide whether to keep the speakers apart from the audio equipment for suitable sound separation, or whether you buy smaller speakers that you will keep on top of the cabinet. Some other audio cabinet options, in addition to the usual free-standing types, are wheeled cabinets or wall-mounted cabinets. Want more help locating an audio equipment cabinet? Go to Best Audio Equipment Cabinets.
Mission style furniture
Based on the furniture developed in Spanish missions of the American southwest and Mexico centuries earlier, “Mission furniture” was first called that in San Francisco around 1890. The values of the humble Catholic monks who first cultivated the style are reflected in the quality craftsmanship and clean lines of Mission Furniture. Dissimilar to the ornamental Victorian fashions popular at the time, Mission furniture emphasizes simple lines and very little ornamentation. Although it was first made in the West, this design was first mass produced by a designer in New York named Joesph McHugh. The Arts and Crafts movement adopted Mission furniture as a signature style and was highly popular from 1890 to 1914, but its emphasis on highly skilled hand crafted products proved to be too costly for the average person. The material of choice for Mission furnishings has always been oak, which offers a splendid unpainted look and is perfect for sturdy, well-made furnishings. There has been a greater interest in this furniture over the past couple of decades, as the simple, straight lines of Mission furniture blends well with contemporary decor. Visit here for more advice to help you acquire mission style furniture.
Rustic and Mission style oak furniture
When the time comes to refurbish your home, think about replacing the present furniture with rustic oak furniture. Utilizing oak furniture you can create the ideal environment in your home which will make it excellent for entertaining. Oak furniture has a long history in the United States which goes back a few hundred years and is famous for its beauty, durability and strength.
If you decide to renovate in a rustic motif, you will have to get the proper oak furniture to complement the new look. A great source for the rustic look can be either ranch style or mission style oak furniture. Ranch oak furniture has become more and more popular as people look for a more natural decor for their homes, whereas Mission style furniture has been in style for over a hundred years. There is quality and comfort in these big sturdy pieces. You can establish a very convivial and cozy environment in your home by just adding a single piece of rustic oak furniture. An entertainment center or book case built from oak is sure to bring you years of pleasure and compliments. When you have a clear plan of what you want your entertainment center to contain, you can either get the piece already finished, unfinished, or custom made. In today’s furniture market you are able to have your furniture custom built to your exact specifications. Once you want it custom built, it is necessary to speak to a professional to turn it into a reality. Then all you should do is contact the sales rep and show them specifically how you would like the piece or pieces to look. By having an entertainment center or other pieces made just for you, there can be no doubt that it will fulfill all your needs, including television, other electronics, and storage.
Purchasing completed furniture, either from a normal dealer, or from a custom furniture producer, is not necessarily the only way to go. Although the majority of buyers do not have the financial resources to make a complete home workshop, or the skills to use it, most people have the skill to rub on stains and finishes. You can do an outstanding job staining and finishing with just a few tools and no more than a little know-how. The best part is that if you make a mistake all you must to do is take off the finish and begin again. There are stores which sell unfinished furniture for those who are looking for this kind of job. You can ordinarily find a fairly wide choice of furniture styles in a variety of woods, including oak, pine, and others. There is the option of purchasing a complete collection or single pieces, such as a cabinet, table, bed or armoire.
Unfinished furniture, also called raw furniture, could pose the challenge of figuring out the preferred method to finish it. You have many options available with stains, paints, and clear coats. Stains are available in natural wood colors and with more vibrant color shades like purple and red. Stains will allow the rustic charm of the wood to stand out. Paint, on the other hand, will completely cover the wood no matter which shade you choose. The most important items you have to buy to finish furniture are several sandpaper grits, good quality paintbrushes, rags, and plenty of patience. Despite the fact that you may be able to complete the job faster with an electric sander (an orbital sander is a great tool for refinishing), a little hand sanding will still be required.
When it comes to a clear coat, or top coat, you get three main choices: gloss, semi-gloss, or flat. There are many new water-based polyurethane finishes which have lots of benefits, but the two most important are no toxic fumes and the clean up is very easy. They also go on very easily and dry quickly. Hand painted finishes are gaining in popularity. For instance, you could produce an elegant French country look or a delightful folk style. You could even rub on a custom faux finish, makes it resemble everything from fine-looking marble to elegant metal. You may benefit from your finishing project most if you take your time and don’t worry if it doesn’t come out precisely as you had envisioned. You will appreciate over time that some of your best pieces are the ones which came out differently than you had initially planned. Continue reading and get assistance in obtaining unfinished oak furniture.
All too often our carpet begins to show the signs of use many years before we are ready to install new carpeting. The areas that see lots of use such as in front of furniture and doorways will typically look soiled first. Most of the time contemporary carpet fibers are protected by a special treatment before the carpet leaves the mill. This will serve to protect your carpet from spills and stains as well as make your regular cleaning chores easier. As a carpet gets more use, grit and dirt can get trapped in the carpet and harm the fibers. The good news is that you will now be able to add new protective treatments to fortify the original factory protection. Your carpet will stay looking good if you add this protection on a yearly basis. Often times this treatment can be applied to your carpet by your regular professional carpet cleaners for an added fee. Information to help you look for carpet protection is available at eCarpet Protection.
To maintain safety when having a fire, you need a fireplace tool set
Nothing is like a fireplace to supply both heat and ambiance to one’s home, as well as a decorative focal point. The appropriate fireplace tools are an essential part of keeping your fireplace clean and making sure it is in good working order. A few of the more effective tools to use include long tongs and pokers for shifting logs, and brushes and shovels for cleaning up after a fire. It is best to think about how you will use the fireplace when you are deciding which kinds of tools will work best for your needs. With so many various styles and materials available you won’t have any problem finding a set that enhances the decor of your home. While wrought iron is probably the most popular material, you will also find terrific sets made from steel and brass. You are likely to have no problem finding a set with the design style and materials to blend in with your interior decor. To help protect the area around your fireplace consider adding a decorative screen with the same design style as your tools. Recommendations to help you look for fireplace tools are found at Jimmy Fireplace Tools.
Fireplace accessories can be both practical and decorative
There are lots of various types of fireplace products from which you will be able to select. The items that are best for you will depend on lots of different factors including the kind of fireplace you have, the size, and the general look you are trying to design for the home. Some fireplace accessories are very decorative, some are more functional, and others work beautifully while also enhancing the hearth. A grate operates to maintain the fire above the floor of the firebox and will serve to to improve air circulation in a wood burning fireplace. Tongs and pokers are employed to move coals or hot wood around to get the maximum performance from your fireplace. Any fireplace that burns wood will require the added safety that comes from a proper screen. There are many various screen designs that you can choose from to provide your fireplace with a wonderful look. You can upgrade the safety and appearance of your fireplace by buying the correct accessories and working with them in a proper manner. Continue reading and get help in locating any fireplace accessory.
Fireplace upgrades
The reassuring sounds of an intimate fire on a bleak winter’s night, the life-giving warmth that holds back the cold and covers you with its soft touch, the all-encompassing smell of burning wood, and the stone fireplace which radiates heat from its once-cold heart. What beautiful memories.
They’re not MY memories, certainly, and almost certainly not yours either in case you grew up in the city. But if this is what comes to mind whenever you remember your childhood, then I’m positive you will also remember wasting a lot of time shoveling out the stove, unclogging the chimney, chopping and stacking the wood, and ingesting the smoke, ash, and fumes. I begin hacking just writing about it. These negative memories can be a thing of the past, and only the feel-good ones will be left, if you start using ceramic gas-burning logs in place of messy wood. Being ceramic means they can last for many years while using either propane or natural gas. With ceramic logs, there are two basic types: vented and vent-free or ventless.
Which type of gas logs you choose will depend on a balance between aesthetics, efficiency, and convenience. The vented log will feel realistic and set a comfortable ambiance, but it will not give off much warmth since most of that goes out the chimney. The vent-free fireplaces and logs will be more portable and more ‘green’, but the flame is less realistic and the fireplaces need more attention to guarantee a safe environment. Information to help you search for fireplace gas logs is available at A1 Gas Logs.
Fireplace accessories can make using your fireplace a delight rather than a job
Many homeowners look at fireplaces to be just one more thing that will need regular maintenance. The truth is, to keep a fireplace in good condition doesn’t require a lot of effort, and doesn’t cost a lot. Comparing the cash you avoid spending on heating bills when you frequently utilize your fireplace, you’ll realize its cost-effectiveness. Probably the single most vital step in fireplace upkeep is keeping both the chimney pipe and fireplace open and clean. Chimneys have to be cleaned yearly, and should be done by an expert chimney sweep. However, if you possess the right tools, you can clean the chimney without anyone’s help. You can locate a wide variety of wood burning fireplace accessories plus tools on the Internet to help keep the fireplace clean. While acquiring a quality set of fireplace tools, ensure that the set contains a small scoop and brush so that the ashes can be swept up. Many people put their ashes in a cardboard box to be disposed of, but prior to doing so ensure that the ashes are completely out before placing them in to prevent a fire. As a result of that specific hazard, I prefer using a metal bucket or coal carrier to remove the ashes. (I frequently get these tools at web based discount fireplace accessories stores, and so far have been completely happy with the results.)
To safeguard a risk-free environment, you have to keep your fireplace dust free. Closed or blocked flues and chimneys can cause smoke and carbon monoxide to back up into the residence. This could be more than merely an annoyance since it might turn into a health concern. Also, soot and creosote deposits will build up inside your chimney which might lead to chimney fires, and these will be really difficult to extinguish while potentially causing considerable damage to your home. Creosote is a blackish, yellowish oil which becomes deposited on the sides of your chimney as a result of frequent wood burning. Creosote is extremely flammable and can burn at temperatures as high as 3,000 degrees F. If a creosote blaze ignites within the chimney, you need to call the fire dept. immediately. You won’t be able to put out the blaze yourself.
Creosote deposits build up slowly so burning wood in the fireplace a limited number of times each year should not cause excessive amounts to be produced. On the other hand, considering a full season of use, it is strongly suggested to have your chimney professionally cleaned. Between cleanings, you should get bottles of creosote remover which could help remove creosote deposits from inside the fireplace itself. Creosote is a really gummy material that calls for a specific cleaner to remove it. Chimney sweeps generally scour only your chimney, so having a container of creosote remover available will be useful in keeping the fireplace clean. Creosote can also build up on other things, such as the glass doors in front of the fireplace and andirons. With a quantity of creosote solvent you can quickly and efficiently clean these items. More assistance in acquiring fireplace accessory tools is conveniently located here.
Organizing your home with decorative wall hooks
Think of all the design possibilities available to you whenever you add some of the wonderful assortment of decorative wall hooks sold nowadays. These can be a home accessory that do an excellent job of blending together form and function. No matter what your child is interested in, from dinosaurs to trucks, you are sure to discover the exact fit. Wouldn’t the bathroom look great if all the family towels, hair accessories and other things were neatly hung on lovely wall hooks? When you want to have them in your kitchen you might be surprised at the wide array of choices including sunflowers, fruits and vegetables, roosters, and coffee themes. These types of hooks provide a decorative and easy way to coordinate the things in your bedroom as well by providing you the best place to store scarves, neckties and purses. Think about how enjoyable it would be to come home to an entry area that is attractive and clutter-free with a place for everything from coats to dog leashes. They are available in such a wide variety of styles and finishes that you will be sure to run across one that fits your needs perfectly. Go here for more advice to help you buy decorative wall hooks.
Decorative candle sconces
Candle wall sconces might be a good way to alter the look of almost any room in your home. Having candlelight will be a great way to fill a room with soft, gentle glow that will really help to create the perfect mood. There is such a wide selection of candle wall sconces that you are sure to find some which are the perfect size and style for any room. Candle walls sconces are sold in a broad selection of materials and finishes providing you the freedom to craft the perfect look in just about any room. While making your selection it will help to think about what colors are going to complement the rest of your decor, particularly the color of the wall. When putting them in narrower spaces make sure that there will be sufficient space to safely walk past them and that they are not too close to objects such as artwork or curtains. Make sure that you are purchasing high quality items from a respected store so as to avoid mishaps caused by poor quality craftsmanship or materials. Additional information to help you acquire candle wall sconces.
Fountains to brighten your home
Indoor water fountains might be an easy solution to quickly improving one’s home. The sound of running water is very soothing and can give any home a more comfortable ambiance. Plus, there is something appealing about water spilling over a waterfall or tumbling down a rapids.
The basic elements needed to build a table top fountain are a small underwater pump (available from aquarium shops and garden centers), a large bowl or other waterproof container, a prop to cover the pump, marbles or rocks, flexible tubing which fits the pump, a small copper elbow to direct the flow of water, and (naturally) water. Lighting will be extremely essential to the total effect of your fountain. There exists a distinctive elegance when light reflects off water. A person might use halogen or LED pool lighting, under-water fountain lighting, and outdoor lights, along with multi-colored lenses to produce that little more character. Whenever you are creating a tabletop fountain and its lighting, you will need to consider whether the fountain is going to be seen from the side or from above, in order to increase the total effect. Suggestions to help you look for indoor fountains are located at 1 Stop Indoor Fountains.
Creating a peaceful mood with an indoor table fountain
Using one simple change you can create the peace and serenity of a Japanese tea garden inside your home or office by buying a beautiful indoor table fountain. The sound of a table fountain is soothing and helps relieve stress, which is as appropriate for the office as it is for the home. Unless you want to drop money on a made-to-order fountain you will find that most indoor models are inexpensive, as well as easy to move around and maintain. The best-selling models of indoor table fountains are Japanese styles, although you can find postmodern art styles to fit in with a up-to-date decor, or farm country Americana styles for a more old-fashioned touch. Custom-made fountains are pricey, but there are websites which will show you how to design and build your own unique fountain using inexpensive items you can find in hardware stores. Be mindful of how and where you place these fountains to avoid having small children or pets accidentally knock them over. Also be aware not to set up the table fountain (and its flowing water) next to electrical equipment such as computers, stereos, or televisions. Indoor table fountains are constructed of a variety of materials including terracotta, metal, concrete, fiberglass, slate or ceramic, and all of them create a soothing, natural aura for your office or home. More help in acquiring indoor table fountains is available here.
Decorator fabric
There’s nothing equal to floral decorator fabric to give the rooms of your home an open, bright and inviting decor. Open your mind to the endless possibilities of home decoration, from wall coverings, pillows and throw blankets to bedroom embellishments and kitchen accessories, just by crafting it all out of floral fabric. Floral fabric is perfect for making throw pillows, and simply require easy-to-find materials like fabric, batting or foam for stuffing, and thread. And there is no pattern required. If you match the pillow fabric to your furniture, walls, drapes and blankets, you will be able to create a decor which is as unique as it is beautiful, and as endearing as it is functional. Using floral fabric gives you an unlimited number of decoration and fashion choices, for example making purses, hats and scarves which are bright and vibrant. There is no reason to stop with home accessories, as you can have floral print fabric dresses for women, and handkerchiefs and ties for men. A rose may be rose, but for the widest variety of rosy floral fabric it might be advisable to refer to a catalog if you are new to crafting. Holidays are a perfect time to brighten up your decor and even your wardrobe using bright floral fabrics, especially for New Years, Valentines Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
An antique dresser set will add a touch of elegance to any bedroom
With as many styles of antique dresser sets available, most of us have encountered reproductions, even if we are not aware of it. For instance, that massive dresser you worked so hard to move around your grandmother’s guest room might itself be a genuine antique. The Rococo revival style is one of the best known kinds of antique dresser sets and is easily identified by the round corners and imaginative drawer pulls. They will usually have curved faces and are constructed from superior hardwoods such as walnut or mahogany. If you are searching for something quite ornate think about an antique dresser set made in the Renaissance revival era. Some of the features of these elaborate dressers include marble inlay tops, carved handles, fluted legs and framed mirrors. If buying antiques you will want to spend your time researching the numerous styles so that you will be sure you are getting the real thing. A couple of characteristics of a genuine antique dresser are the slight fading of the wood and the bent mirror glass, both of which indicate that the furniture is handcrafted and old. Recommendations to help you find antique dresser sets are available at Antique Dresser Set.
Bamboo sheets
One of the most popular recent trends on the market these days are bedsheets manufactured with bamboo. In case you are someone who wants to make choices that avoid harming the planet, then bamboo is a good choice for you. Bedding which comes from bamboo will often be produced from the waste remaining from the fabrication of other bamboo objects, therefore ensuring the wisest use of resources. Some of the several advantages of bamboo sheets include the fact that it is unaffected by water and is cultivated without the use of pesticides since it is naturally pest resistant. A few of the numerous alternatives you will have while buying these comfortable sheets are natural or dyed. Probably the major downside to having this type of material will be the higher cost that is often along with it. The cost of bamboo bedding is usually higher due to the limited production and the labor intensive procedure that is employed. Stores that feature eco-friendly products will undoubtedly carry bamboo sheets nowadays, including a few of the leading department stores and smaller ecologically aware boutiques. Want further help purchasing bamboo bed sheets? Try New Bamboo Sheets.
Foam neck pillows
It might be surprising exactly how much better you can sleep if the neck and head are supported by a memory foam neck pillow. Using the soft pillows which a lot of us grew up with actually do very little to keep our head in the best position to enable us to sleep well. In order for your neck to be suitably supported, you will require a pillow density which can in fact only be found in a foam neck pillow. Probably the most important point to consider when shopping for the best neck pillow will be the shape and size which will fulfill your individual requirements. You will discover that there is a substantial choice of sizes, contours, and densities to match with the unique needs of every individual’s size and sleep style. Usually the densities of memory foam used for neck pillows will be less than that which is used for mattresses. If you generally prefer a firmer pillow you should search for a higher density memory foam pillow. Continue reading and get assistance in buying a memory foam neck pillow.
Tips for eliminating bedbugs
These minute blood-sucking beasts may hide wherever the edge of a credit card will fit. Utilizing a vacuum and a bright light a person can search for and suck up the elusive pests. Thoroughly vacuum mattresses, box springs, armchairs, couches, dresser drawers, and under the edges of rugs and carpets. Vacuum in back of headboards, baseboards, wall hangings, and light switch and electrical socket wall plates. Check out cracks in plaster and around plumbing fixtures. Besides discovering these pests hiding or scurrying, look for the tiny brown specks of their fecal droppings, their tiny whitish eggs, and drops of blood (yours). Whenever you are still sure you are experiencing a bedbug problem, except you cannot find where they are hiding, you might consider calling for a bedbug dog. Dogs which can be trained to locate narcotics, explosives, or mold are easily trained to sniff out the sick-sweet smelling Cimex Lectularius, as the common bedbug is recognized in academic circles. When bedbugs are discovered, and you cannot eliminate them yourself, then it’s time to call a commercial exterminator. There are many preventative measures you can consider, such as completely covering your mattress and box springs in vinyl, however, for complete elimination you should contact a specialist. Going to this website can be of help in acquiring bed bugs treatments.
Conserving space with bunk beds
Bunk beds can be a great way to provide added sleeping space while saving floor space, but they should be employed with a certain amount of caution. A recent study concluded that nearly 36,000 children and adolescents are treated for bunk bed-related injuries every year. Between 1990 and 2005 about 573,000 children from infants to age 21 suffered injuries serious enough to involve a trip to the ER. Nearly half of the injuries happened in children under 6, but there also was a surprising jump in injuries among 18 to 21-year-olds, who had twice the number of incidents as adolescents ages 14 to 17.
Almost three-quarters of the children were harmed by falls, with close to 30 percent suffering significant cuts, almost a quarter reporting scrapes and bruises and about 20 percent suffering broken bones. Worse yet, more than one in ten experienced concussions. The study showed 50 percent of the children suffered injuries to the neck, face or head, and that children younger than 3 years old were nearly 40 percent more likely to suffer head injuries than older children. Approximately 60 percent of the kids injured were boys (which is not very surprising!)
There are voluntary safety procedures for bunk bed manufacturers which have been published by both the American Standards of Testing and Materials (ASTM) and the Consumer Product Safety Commission. You need to determine if the bed you are thinking about buying meets the following standards:
(1) Thoroughly inspect and test the frame of the bunk bed for stability. The best test is for the parent to climb onto the bed and move around; the bed should easily support a parent’s weight without feeling any movement of the frame or hearing any squeaking sounds. Better yet, have the salesman climb up on the top bed to prove its strength. (2) Inspect the entire bed to make sure that there are no potentially dangerous parts protruding, that there aren’t any sharp edges, and that the complete assembly is smooth. Make sure the bedposts do not have knobs or finials that can snare clothing and other objects. (3) The top bunk must always have rails attached on both sides, even if one side is up against a wall. To prevent a youngster from getting stuck between the rails or stuck between the mattress and the bottom rail, no gap should exceed 3 inches, thus preventing entrapment and strangulation. The top rail must be a minimum five inches above the top of the mattress to prevent the child from falling out of bed. (4) The gap between the mattress and the bed frame must not exceed three inches anywhere around the bed. If there is a gap larger than three inches, the mattress does not fit. A child who falls into the space between the bed and the mattress while they are sleeping might be strangled, which unfortunately has happened. (5) Make sure that the ladder is well made and well attached to the frame of the bed. A secure ladder ought to be able to hold an adult’s weight with no moving around. Once again, have the salesman demonstrate the sturdiness of the ladder by standing on it and moving from side to side. The ladder should not slip at all. (6) There have been numerous reported injuries in which the mattress on the top bed is moved by a child on the lower bunk pushing up on the upper mattress supports. The mattress supports for the top bunk must be firmly attached to the bed frame with screws or bolts. Unstable supports can cause injuries if anything moves around and this style of construction should be avoided. (7) Every so often check the bed for any loose or missing fasteners and replace them immediately. Immediately! Throughout your inspection be sure to look at the horizontal supports holding the top mattress and all of the hardware holding the bed together. (8) Never allow a child under six years old to sleep (or play) on the top bed. As mentioned above, one half of the accidents happen to children under that age. (9) Set the bed out of reach of ceiling fans and light fixtures (both should be obvious!). Additionally you should make sure there is plenty room between the upper bunk and the ceiling.
Another type of elevated bed you might think about is the loft bed which has an open space where the bottom bed would usually be. This space can be used for a dresser, desk and chair, a TV, or even storage. The safety rules for bunk beds also apply to loft beds and the same care must be taken when visiting a furniture retailer. If you buy either type of bed over the Internet, be sure it complies with the ASTM standards. Go to Buying Bunk Beds for additional assistance.
Try the adjustable firmness of an air bed
An air bed can provide you a more restful sleep than a conventional mattress. Manipulating the softness of a mattress helps ease stress since the body’s mass will be more evenly spread out. The cavities of the air bed are tough and durable, which is much different than the weak vinyl tubing that is employed in blow-up style mattresses. This idea of sleeping on air came from hospital use. After patients became bed-ridden, an air mattress provided them with a more restful sleep, plus they would also experience fewer bedsores. Given that the air baffles or chambers contained in the mattress are the central elements of support, the sleeper can modify his or her side of the bed to the level of support that will be the most comfortable. Visit Buying Air Beds for more assistance.
Using air mattresses while camping
Everyone who spends any amount of time camping can value the added comfort they have with an air mattress. Portability is among the main aspects you will want to keep in mind when selecting one of these, as well as durability and maintenance. Arguably your chief concerns is the ease of storage and portability of any air mattress you are considering buying. Because the terrain of a campsite will usually include rocks and twigs you want to make sure you pick a durable one. Because it is common for condensation to build up in the tent overnight you ought to look for a one that’s waterproof. To get a clear idea about both comfort and portability you should visit a nearest sporting goods store where they have floor models displayed. Another important thing to consider is how simple the model is to put up and take down whether on the road or in your own home. If a power or manual pump isn’t part of your purchase it is recommended that you get one unless you don’t mind inflating it yourself. Go to Air Mattress Guide for more information.
Bed curtains for a more romantic bedroom
To arouse the romantic ambiance of your bedroom decor drape some fine canopy curtains over your bed and instantly add grace and charm to your bedroom. Canopy curtains for a bed offer a sense of privacy and royalty, and can elevate the self-esteem of a young princess, or encourage the amorous moods of a king and queen. Soft, neutral colors are usually the recommended design scheme for both your bedding and curtains, and you can always add vibrant accents for a brighter look. The most common way to hang canopy curtains is on a four post bed, but you will also be able to attach a wire frame to the ceiling, or employ an attachment affixed to the headboard. Select heavier curtain fabric if you want a heightened sense of privacy, but for a more open feeling pick lighter fabrics, perhaps something translucent. No matter how you manage to drape your curtains, you will notice the mood change right away, transforming your bed into a haven at the center of your domain. If you want to further heighten the romantic mood place the bed by an open window for the beguiling effect of fabric moving in the breeze. More help in obtaining canopy bed curtains is conveniently located here.
The bathroom needs to be a room where you can relax and feel comfortable. Doing a bathroom renewal project is an excellent way to convert your bathroom into a soothing retreat where you get ready for the coming day and recover at the end of it. It will be wise to take some time arranging any big renovation project, and the bathroom is definitely no exception. Something you want to make sure to incorporate in the plan is plenty of storage room for extra towels, things like hair dryers, and toiletries. Even though it is often overlooked, good lighting will be an essential part of a well designed bathroom. Bathroom lighting design should consider all the important tasks that happen there as well as the ambiance you want to create. A bathroom renovation project can be the best way to make your home more environmentally friendly by incorporating sustainable products and newer products that consume less resources. Even though a bathroom remodeling or repair project could take a substantial amount of time and money, it is sure to pay off in both the enjoyment of the space and the enhanced value of your home. Need more answers to your questions about a bathroom renovation? Then visit Bathroom Renovations and Repairs.
Bathroom sinks
A common trend in bathroom design nowadays has been including warm colors such as orange. Anytime you make changes to your residence, including constructing an orange themed bathroom, you might want to consider how it will be perceived by likely home buyers done the road. One way to do this will be to select your shade of orange prudently since the color you decide on needs to enhance the look of your skin tone. Orange sinks can be a perfect part of an orange bathroom and may be found in an extensive assortment of styles. You will be surprised at the wide array of sinks on the market, including glass, pedestal, and integrated. As you are selecting an orange bathroom sink you need to consider your budget, the kind of use the sink is likely to experience, and the decor of the room. When creating your orange bathroom think about modern touches you can add which match the theme, like pendant lights and wonderful orange tiles. Want more answers to your questions about bathroom sinks? Then go to Orange Bathroom Sinks.
Bathroom faucets and fixtures
The number and size of the holes in the sink or vanity must specify which basic type of faucet you put in, split set or single piece. Single piece faucets join the hot and cold outlets and employ right and left knob controls, whereas split set faucets have one faucet for hot water and another faucet for cold. How simple it is to put in new faucets is entirely dependant on whether or not the sink is new, in which case installation is easy if done prior to putting in the sink, or if the sink is existing, the new faucets can only be installed from below. Polished chrome is the material of choice these days for new faucets, since they are scratch-resistant and don’t show wear and tear, and will be quickly cleaned with soapy water. Leaky faucets are another problem, because they can jangle your nerves and can only be money running down the drain. Fortunately, faucets are easy to fix once you have determined the sort of valve the faucet has. To control the flow of water, modern-day faucets employ these four types of valves: compression, disc, cartridge, and ball valves. Prior to heading over to the nearest plumbing supply to purchase the parts for your leaky faucet, look for the instruction manual which came with the faucet, as having it could make the task easier. The biggest faucet in your house is in all probability the one in the shower and tub, and you will need those faucets to be equipped with pressure-balance valves to block dangerous fluctuations in water temperture, which could lead to scalding or even thermal shock. This site will assist you in finding bathroom faucets and fixtures.
Hanging bathroom mirrors
For most people who get up and go to their job on a regular basis, the work day starts with grooming rituals like applying make-up or shaving, and for that the proper bathroom mirror is very essential. Various bathroom mirrors have different roles, whether it is a compact vanity mirror, a wall mirror, or a free-standing full length mirror, and must blend in with the bathroom decor. Whether it is a mirror with a chrome edge, a beveled mirror in a large wooden frame, or a mirror attached to the wall with decorative metal pegs, there are multiple styles to choose from for a flawless bathroom fit. When you find that the shower steams up your mirror up, you can find a licensed to put in an electric no-fog mirror. Which type of hardware you get to mount a wall mirror will depend on both the surface of the wall and the interior. The surface will be wallboard, concrete, brick, drywall, plaster or tile, and the interior might be filled with insulation and held up by 2x4s. Because they endure a lot of abuse, wall mirrors also need to be skillfully installed or you might be standing in the bathroom applying makeup or shaving and the mirror comes down and breaks. The dimensions, style, shape and color of a bathroom mirror should blend in with the decor and might give the appearance of a larger space, since bigger mirrors will make a small bathroom seem larger. Whenever you tend to your daily grooming, there must be suitable lighting, and if there isn’t sufficient light through the window or ceiling fixture look into purchasing a mirror with a light built in. Want more help purchasing a hanging bathroom mirror? Visit Best Bathroom Wall Mirrors.
Recessed bathroom medicine cabinet
Bathroom medicine cabinets are both a key accessory for appreciating the ambiance and in having ready access to all your bathroom supplies. Medicine cabinets are offered in wood or metal, normally with a mirror, and are recessed and deep enough to provide sufficient shelf space for all your bathroom necessities. In refurbishing a bathroom you will have to come up with a complete bathroom decoration strategy which establishes the theme or style of the room’s decor. The most important visual element is the color scheme, to which you will have to consider thoroughly when you plan your completed look. In view of the fact that you usually begin the day in the bathroom medicine cabinet mirror, it’s only appropriate that it will be the first accessory you need to put in. The rehab design will necessitate not only the cabinets, but also furniture, flooring,fixtures, flowers and plants. Regardless of how nice the decor turns out, it won’t mean anything except if all the elements are as functional as they are attractive. Upon completion, your grand plan can be topped off with the right throw rug, so you now own a finished bathroom utilizing blended schemes of color and design. Read more and get help in locating bathroom medicine cabinets.
The best toilets
Choosing the toilet which best serves your needs includes making the correct choices in size, model, style and economical water use. Initially one has to take into account how the toilet will fit in the bathroom since not all bathrooms will be the same, and therefore a perfect toilet for one bathroom might be a bad choice for someone else’s bathroom. Measure the distance between the back wall and the first bolt you find located in the floor, which is where you should fasten your new toilet. The best toilets are water efficient and comfortable, however they must also harmonize with the decoration of the bathroom they are in. When deciding between a single piece model, where the tank and bowl are molded together, and the two piece kind, where the tank and the bowl are separate, it depends on personal preferences, though two piece toilets are somewhat less costly. The choice in toilet bowls also comes down to two: the oblong bowls which save water, and the round bowls which have been around for decades. Comfort is an additional detail to consider, and this might require you to give the toilet seat a “try out” before you make the plunge and buy it! Lastly, take into account the amount of water pressure the toilet needs to be operational, for as important as water efficiency will be, the toilet has to have adequate force to get the job completed! Want additional help with your questions about the best toilets? Then visit All The Best Toilets.
Bathroom vanities
You could give any bathroom a completely new appearance just by installing a new vanity. You want to make sure to look around since it will probably be the main furnishing in the room. They are available in a full array of materials and designs to suit just about any style of home decor. Make certain that whatever design you select is of a size that’s suitable for the scale of your room. Often it is possible to find the most competitive prices and the largest selection by conducting a search of the Internet. If you have the room available it is a good idea to consider installing the double sink variety, especially if you have a large main bathroom. You can also design your own unique look by transforming another item of furniture by adding a sink and faucet set. When shopping on a smaller budget think about heading over to your nearby home improvement center for sales and clearance items. Suggestions to help you look for discounted bathroom vanities are found at Bathroom Vanities Showroom.
Remodeling with a new bathroom vanity
Bathroom remodeling projects ought to start with the vanity, comprised of your mirror, counter and sink, the place where you begin your day with personal grooming. The first consideration is to be sure you have plenty of counter space for all the toiletries and other items your grooming needs require, or else you will be choosing frustration instead of convenience. Bathroom vanities are the centerpieces of any bathroom remodel, and you should be able to purchase one to suit both a tight budget and a small bathroom. Planning a satisfying bathroom decor begins with picking the style of your new vanity, and then purchase the matching mirror frames, faucets, and fixtures for the tub or shower. You will find a nice variety of material for your vanity, such as glass, wood, chrome, granite, or perhaps cultured marble for that more expensive look. Most sinks nowadays are porcelain, which are simpler to take care of than Corian sinks, or custom metal sinks like bronze. A bathroom is not only for grooming but also a place of relief and refuge, and you have countless alternatives for making yours as serene and tranquil as possible. Naturally, serenity is ordinarily subject to the impact of how many people seek to use the bathroom during the day. Go to Bathroom Vanity Guide for additional information.
Bathroom lighting fixtures
People normally find themselves more concerned with the amount of light they get in their kitchen or living room than their bathroom, but bathroom lighting is often more critical. You require adequate lighting when you are going about the business of shaving, putting make-up on, or combing or fixing your hair. When you need to illuminate your face and head the best method is vanity lighting, usually a set of vertical lighting strips affixed on the sides of the mirror . Other sorts of task lighting are also efficient in the bathroom, for instance globe bulbs installed across the top of the mirror, unfortunately any kind of recessed lighting won’t operate properly with a mirror because they cast shadows. There is an appropriate place for recessed lights in the bathroom, however, over the shower, tub or toilet since everyday activities are not impaired by the shadows. It is critical to pick the right covers for your lights, which need to be glass and not plastic since the high humidity and the heat from the bulb causes the plastic to yellow. Nothing beats the impact of natural sunshine in a bathroom, which you will be able to approximate with a full spectrum ceiling light installed in the middle of the room. More assistance in purchasing bathroom lighting fixtures is available here.