(ARA) – Many elements must work together to create a remarkable room. There is the color scheme, furniture, decorations, and of course, the rug on the floor. Don’t overlook the significance of the one thing that could tie the whole room together!
Shopping for a rug can be time consuming and frustrating. Going to stores with limited inventory just to flip through heavy rugs to return empty-handed is disappointing. One of the easiest ways to shop for rugs is by going online!
Shopping the Internet for rugs opens up a new world of opportunities. First, inventory is unlimited, unlike stores with limited showroom space. Second, it is easy. Clicking your mouse is much less strenuous than flipping through piles of heavy and awkward rugs. Finally, on Web sites like www.RugsUSA.com, you can save 20 to 30 percent off retail prices which could be thousands of dollars.
RugsUSA.com allows you to shop by style, separating out categories for easy navigation. The site has popular and unique styles for all types of home decor. After spending an hour in a traditional rug store you might see 100 rugs. By spending an hour online, you might search thousands, all from the comfort of home.
“RugsUSA was designed to be value driven for customers and also be a one-stop resource for a large variety of rugs,” says Erica Mayblum, vice president of RugsUSA. “From braided rugs, to shag rugs, to high-end name brands, you can find what you are looking for easily and quickly.”
When buying a rug, think about the size of the room, and what area you want covered by the rug. Also think about the furniture you have in the room and where you will place it. This will dictate the size of rug you will need. Also think about the color scheme and make sure to match to your taste. One type of rug can subtly add to an existing room, while another can give a whole new makeover to a room.
RugsUSA.com includes free shipping that takes about a week and includes a 30-day trial so you can be sure the rug works for the look you want. Use discount code "greatrugs" and receive 10 percent off. So save a little time going to your local stores and digging through heavy rugs. Visit www.RugsUSA.com to learn about styles, colors, and price savings -- all at the click of a button.
http://www.homesandland.com/Articles/index.cfm?Editorial=EA_Rugs
Saturday, August 18, 2007
Carpet: Choose Your Style
Carpet has become one of the nation’s most popular floor coverings because it provides additional insulation, reduces sound and gives off an appearance of comfort and warmth. Today, carpet is made from a variety of products and is easier to care for with most lines offering soil, stain, odor and static resistant options.
Carpet is a big decision for most homeowners, especially given the fact that it will likely remain in the home for a decade or more. Home improvement pro Bob Vila [www.bobvila.com] suggests homeowners spend a little time planning before venturing out to purchase any carpet.
“Once you decide to purchase carpeting for your home, let common sense be your guide,” says Vila. “Select a carpet that is made for the traffic and activity level of your home, set it on padding that works, keep it clean and soil-free, and you will have a product that will enhance your home for years to come.”
Homeowners can narrow down the decision making by taking into account the different types of carpet available. In an industry that once offered only a limited number of colors and quality grades, carpet manufacturers now provide a vast array of patterns, designs, weights, colors and textures to suit any homeowner’s preference. Prices can vary from $5 to $50 per square yard.
Cut pile carpet has a plush appearance which happens when the fiber loops making up the carpet are cut on the top. Saxony, velvet/plush, texture, and frieze all fall into the cut pile category. The first two – saxony and velvet/plush – while beautiful are not considered great options for high traffic areas because they are prone to showing footprints and vacuum marks. Textured carpeting hides traffic patterns by using multi-colored fibers that act as a camouflage. Frieze has short, highly twisted fibers, almost a short cut version of yesterday’s shag. Its short fibers curl in many directions when crushed, disguising any crushed areas or marks.
Cut and loop pile carpeting uses both cut and looped fibers and is characterized by a sculptured or textured effect created by several different yarn levels. This type of carpet hides dirt and traffic marks and is available in several styles.
Level loop pile carpet weaves even loops of fiber into the carpet backing at both ends and can be created with high or short loops. Berber is the most recognized form of this type of carpeting which is made up of short densely packed loops making it difficult for dirt and particles to filter into the yarns. Higher loops can create a nearly opposite appearance to Berber, looking more lush and comfortable.
Multi-level loop pile is made up of two to three different loop heights, giving off a more textured appearance that also works well in high traffic areas.
Once the type of carpet is determined, buyers then choose the weight, quality and color. “Carpet quality is judged by density and pile,” says Vila. “The densest carpets are packed with fiber per square inch. So, the denser the pile, the better the carpet.”
Padding and installation are other things to consider when purchasing a carpet. Ask the salesperson what kind of pad the manufacturer suggests for your choice of carpet. Most retailers price carpet with installation included. Homeowners should expect to pay about an additional $1 per square yard if old carpet needs to be ripped up and disposed of properly.
http://www.homesandland.com/Articles/index.cfm?Editorial=EA_Carpet
Carpet is a big decision for most homeowners, especially given the fact that it will likely remain in the home for a decade or more. Home improvement pro Bob Vila [www.bobvila.com] suggests homeowners spend a little time planning before venturing out to purchase any carpet.
“Once you decide to purchase carpeting for your home, let common sense be your guide,” says Vila. “Select a carpet that is made for the traffic and activity level of your home, set it on padding that works, keep it clean and soil-free, and you will have a product that will enhance your home for years to come.”
Homeowners can narrow down the decision making by taking into account the different types of carpet available. In an industry that once offered only a limited number of colors and quality grades, carpet manufacturers now provide a vast array of patterns, designs, weights, colors and textures to suit any homeowner’s preference. Prices can vary from $5 to $50 per square yard.
Cut pile carpet has a plush appearance which happens when the fiber loops making up the carpet are cut on the top. Saxony, velvet/plush, texture, and frieze all fall into the cut pile category. The first two – saxony and velvet/plush – while beautiful are not considered great options for high traffic areas because they are prone to showing footprints and vacuum marks. Textured carpeting hides traffic patterns by using multi-colored fibers that act as a camouflage. Frieze has short, highly twisted fibers, almost a short cut version of yesterday’s shag. Its short fibers curl in many directions when crushed, disguising any crushed areas or marks.
Cut and loop pile carpeting uses both cut and looped fibers and is characterized by a sculptured or textured effect created by several different yarn levels. This type of carpet hides dirt and traffic marks and is available in several styles.
Level loop pile carpet weaves even loops of fiber into the carpet backing at both ends and can be created with high or short loops. Berber is the most recognized form of this type of carpeting which is made up of short densely packed loops making it difficult for dirt and particles to filter into the yarns. Higher loops can create a nearly opposite appearance to Berber, looking more lush and comfortable.
Multi-level loop pile is made up of two to three different loop heights, giving off a more textured appearance that also works well in high traffic areas.
Once the type of carpet is determined, buyers then choose the weight, quality and color. “Carpet quality is judged by density and pile,” says Vila. “The densest carpets are packed with fiber per square inch. So, the denser the pile, the better the carpet.”
Padding and installation are other things to consider when purchasing a carpet. Ask the salesperson what kind of pad the manufacturer suggests for your choice of carpet. Most retailers price carpet with installation included. Homeowners should expect to pay about an additional $1 per square yard if old carpet needs to be ripped up and disposed of properly.
http://www.homesandland.com/Articles/index.cfm?Editorial=EA_Carpet
Alarm Systems: Home Security for Renters
(ARA) - Owning a home may be the American Dream, but the American reality is that most people's first home is a rental. And the number of people who choose to rent as a permanent housing arrangement is on the rise, according to national statistics.
In 2004, more than 36 million households occupied rental units in the United States, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. And the statistics show that rental living is not exclusive to young singles; more than 50 percent of all rentals are occupied by families. In fact in the northeast, west coast and central cities, more homes are rentals than owner-occupied.
"In June, the FBI announced that burglary is on the rise in nearly every area of the country," says Jeff Butler, a home security expert with Protect America. "Rental homes are as much targets of thieves as single-family dwellings. They may even seem more appealing to criminals since they might believe renters are less inclined to take security measures to protect their homes."
"Home security is as important for renters as for any homeowner," says Butler. "And taking steps to secure your rental home doesn't have to cost a lot of money."
If you rent your home, consider taking the following steps to make your living space as secure as possible:
* Make sure all your window and door locks are in working order. When you move into a rental unit, the landlord should be willing to either change the locks or have the tumblers replaced. If he or she is not, invest the money and do it yourself. Many communities now require rental properties to have deadbolts that can only be opened - from either side of the door - with a key. Check your local and state rental laws and gently, but firmly, require your landlord to meet those safety standards.
* Get to know your neighbors. Join or consider founding a neighborhood watch organization in your building. "Caring, watchful neighbors can be one of your best defenses against a break in," says Butler. "By getting to know you, they'll also get to know who does - and doesn't - belong in your apartment when you're away."
* Look into renters insurance. Basic coverage can cost as little as $150 per year, a small price to pay for protection against loss not just from theft, but from natural disasters, fire, etc. Most major insurance providers underwrite renters' policies, and many online insurers specialize in providing coverage to renters.
* Invest in a home security system. New technologies and responsive home security companies, like Protect America, are making it possible for renters to install the same security monitoring systems in their rental units that homeowners place in their houses. Protect America recently began offering its wireless GE home security systems with an innovative program that allows renters to take the system and the monitoring service with them when they move.
Historically, moving a home security system has been cost prohibitive for renters. Many companies required a three-year contract for monitoring services, while most leases are for just one year. Renters who wanted to move their service often had to have a new system installed in their new residence and pay fees associated with canceling service at one location and initiating it at a new site.
Because Protect America's security systems are easily installed by the homeowner (with live, walk-through support from an experienced technical advisor), moving the system to a new location is simple. Since installation requires no changes to the apartment ("You don't even have to put a screw in the wall," Butler says.), there are no landlord issues. And much like satellite companies that allow subscribers to move their service to a new location, Protect America's service allows subscribers to simply move the service to their new address.
http://www.homesandland.com/Articles/index.cfm?Editorial=EA_HomeSecurityForRenters
In 2004, more than 36 million households occupied rental units in the United States, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. And the statistics show that rental living is not exclusive to young singles; more than 50 percent of all rentals are occupied by families. In fact in the northeast, west coast and central cities, more homes are rentals than owner-occupied.
"In June, the FBI announced that burglary is on the rise in nearly every area of the country," says Jeff Butler, a home security expert with Protect America. "Rental homes are as much targets of thieves as single-family dwellings. They may even seem more appealing to criminals since they might believe renters are less inclined to take security measures to protect their homes."
"Home security is as important for renters as for any homeowner," says Butler. "And taking steps to secure your rental home doesn't have to cost a lot of money."
If you rent your home, consider taking the following steps to make your living space as secure as possible:
* Make sure all your window and door locks are in working order. When you move into a rental unit, the landlord should be willing to either change the locks or have the tumblers replaced. If he or she is not, invest the money and do it yourself. Many communities now require rental properties to have deadbolts that can only be opened - from either side of the door - with a key. Check your local and state rental laws and gently, but firmly, require your landlord to meet those safety standards.
* Get to know your neighbors. Join or consider founding a neighborhood watch organization in your building. "Caring, watchful neighbors can be one of your best defenses against a break in," says Butler. "By getting to know you, they'll also get to know who does - and doesn't - belong in your apartment when you're away."
* Look into renters insurance. Basic coverage can cost as little as $150 per year, a small price to pay for protection against loss not just from theft, but from natural disasters, fire, etc. Most major insurance providers underwrite renters' policies, and many online insurers specialize in providing coverage to renters.
* Invest in a home security system. New technologies and responsive home security companies, like Protect America, are making it possible for renters to install the same security monitoring systems in their rental units that homeowners place in their houses. Protect America recently began offering its wireless GE home security systems with an innovative program that allows renters to take the system and the monitoring service with them when they move.
Historically, moving a home security system has been cost prohibitive for renters. Many companies required a three-year contract for monitoring services, while most leases are for just one year. Renters who wanted to move their service often had to have a new system installed in their new residence and pay fees associated with canceling service at one location and initiating it at a new site.
Because Protect America's security systems are easily installed by the homeowner (with live, walk-through support from an experienced technical advisor), moving the system to a new location is simple. Since installation requires no changes to the apartment ("You don't even have to put a screw in the wall," Butler says.), there are no landlord issues. And much like satellite companies that allow subscribers to move their service to a new location, Protect America's service allows subscribers to simply move the service to their new address.
http://www.homesandland.com/Articles/index.cfm?Editorial=EA_HomeSecurityForRenters
Alarm Systems: One Of The Best Investments A Homeowner Can Make
Few industries enjoy a high positive customer relationship like that of alarm companies. According to a study done by Dr. Simon Hakim, director of the Center for Competitive Government at Temple University, 94 percent of alarm owners are satisfied with their systems. With one in five homes currently electronically protected, that’s a pretty amazing statistic.
According to FBI statistics, a home is burglarized every 14 seconds in the United States. Dr. Hakim’s study reported that homes without security systems are nearly three times more likely to be broken into than homes with security systems.
Security Systems Save Lives and Property
Alarm systems are no longer simply a first line of protection for burglaries. Many safety related features have been added to the main alarm system like carbon monoxide (CO) detectors, smoke detectors and flood detectors for high risk areas. Even low temperature sensors are available which will alert the alarm company if the temperature within a home drops below a preset level. There is also more sophisticated equipment such as closed circuit television (CCTV), video cameras connected directly to a television or VCR, which provide additional surveillance.
Choosing the Right Alarm Company
With hundreds of companies and plans to cull through, choosing the right alarm company can often be overwhelming. Fortunately, the NBFAA offers help and a checklist on choosing the right system for you and your family. Not all alarm companies are created equal. When interviewing different companies, make sure to follow these simple steps:
* Contact your insurance agent, the NBFAA or your local police department's crime prevention unit for names of security system companies.
* Make sure the alarm company is licensed in the state.
* Ask if pre-employment screening is done on all their employees such as background checks.
* Ask the salesperson for a free security inspection and system recommendations.
* Get a written estimate for the entire system including monthly monitoring fees.
* Compare similar systems and pricing.
* Determine if you will own the system or lease it from the alarm company.
* Make sure your system will be monitored around the clock (24/7) by the central station.
* Negotiate. Most alarm companies will negotiate on system add-ons, providing a free motion detector, additional keypads or even one month free monitoring service.
* Make sure the system you choose is equipped with a battery for backup power.
Once your system is installed, choose a user-friendly code that everyone in the family can remember. Let your insurance agent know that your home is being monitored, and additional insurance discounts may be available. Check to see if your municipality requires homeowners with security alarms to register with the local police department.
http://www.homesandland.com/Articles/index.cfm?Editorial=EA_AlarmSystems
According to FBI statistics, a home is burglarized every 14 seconds in the United States. Dr. Hakim’s study reported that homes without security systems are nearly three times more likely to be broken into than homes with security systems.
Security Systems Save Lives and Property
Alarm systems are no longer simply a first line of protection for burglaries. Many safety related features have been added to the main alarm system like carbon monoxide (CO) detectors, smoke detectors and flood detectors for high risk areas. Even low temperature sensors are available which will alert the alarm company if the temperature within a home drops below a preset level. There is also more sophisticated equipment such as closed circuit television (CCTV), video cameras connected directly to a television or VCR, which provide additional surveillance.
Choosing the Right Alarm Company
With hundreds of companies and plans to cull through, choosing the right alarm company can often be overwhelming. Fortunately, the NBFAA offers help and a checklist on choosing the right system for you and your family. Not all alarm companies are created equal. When interviewing different companies, make sure to follow these simple steps:
* Contact your insurance agent, the NBFAA or your local police department's crime prevention unit for names of security system companies.
* Make sure the alarm company is licensed in the state.
* Ask if pre-employment screening is done on all their employees such as background checks.
* Ask the salesperson for a free security inspection and system recommendations.
* Get a written estimate for the entire system including monthly monitoring fees.
* Compare similar systems and pricing.
* Determine if you will own the system or lease it from the alarm company.
* Make sure your system will be monitored around the clock (24/7) by the central station.
* Negotiate. Most alarm companies will negotiate on system add-ons, providing a free motion detector, additional keypads or even one month free monitoring service.
* Make sure the system you choose is equipped with a battery for backup power.
Once your system is installed, choose a user-friendly code that everyone in the family can remember. Let your insurance agent know that your home is being monitored, and additional insurance discounts may be available. Check to see if your municipality requires homeowners with security alarms to register with the local police department.
http://www.homesandland.com/Articles/index.cfm?Editorial=EA_AlarmSystems
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