BuildingBlox

Site changes- HomeCentrL

2013-01-22T07:13:00.002-05:00

Well today starts a new transition and the start of a new site HomeCentrL I know that I just got back from #BlogTourCGN, which was truly an incredible experience but if you know me at all, you know I don't sit around and wait for things. Onward and upward!

There are going to be some great articles, photos and much more but it's a new learning piece for me. The site is up today and I have so many things to work out and get sorted but I know this will be a great site with some wonderful information and contributions by others.

So while I learn and tune into how it functions, I'd ask for your patience. Also by all means I'd love to here from you as to what you think. Not just the good but the bad too. So don't be shy and stay tuned for some great things to come on HomeCentL

The BuildingBlox Blog is also here at HomeCentrL so that continues on as well!

NKBA and #BlogTourCGN

2013-01-22T06:00:00.000-05:00

While we were in Germany with BlogTour Cologne one of our sponsors, NKBA treated us to a wonderful dinner at the Fruh Restaurant for a true German meal and experience. Everyone had such a wonderful time and the food was delicious. Germany is known for its pork and having experienced it, I can tell you they have pork down to an art. I generally am not a pork eater but the pork here is wonderful!

At one point during the evening I popped outside and this is what I heard. These guys were incredible to say the least.

Great conversations were all over the table.

Of course while in Germany the beer was everywhere and just incredible. They were also served in these little glasses that I referred to as oversized test tubes. Every time your glass got towards the bottom, a new one would appear! I must also admit that I am not a real beer drinker but I am also a believer in partaking of whatever the local customs and cuisines are for the country you are in. So beer it was!

Maybe you know and maybe you don't, but The NKBA is the parent organization to KBIS and this year will be a whole direction for them. The KBIS show will be in New Orleans and you know I'm hoping to be able to attend.

Here's the press release of the new agencies that are going to work to make KBIS a must see event

http://whitegood.com/kbis.html

In that regard having the NKBA as one of the sponsors for this dinner as well as BlogTour Cologne and learning more about what the plans were was great. At one point after the dinner Leanne Newman of Fly Camel and Sherry Qualls of White Good, spoke to us about what they were hoping to make happen with the new KBIS and what we could all do to help turn this show into a success.

Given all that we heard at this dinner and at other meetings, I would say that this group is on the right track. They are reaching out to people to see what would make KBIS a success and trying to include the members in many aspects of creating a great event. Now I know this year will be harder given the lack of time before the show but it will start the ball rolling and set the stage for next year.

With that being said- Thank you to NKBA for sponsoring a wonderful event and we are all looking forward to being part of the New KBIS.

Traveling to #BlogTourCGN

2013-01-21T06:00:00.000-05:00

At the moment of writing this, I'm 36,000 feet up in an airplane where the outside temperature is -50 below zero but the images and experiences that we had while in Cologne and Amsterdam are all that fill my thoughts. I've traveled thousands of miles to get there, walked all over those wonderfully old cities and still have 1500 miles to go. Yet the travel is part of the BlogTour experience as well. It's part of the experience.

So how my journey started was on Friday with a flight from Eleuthera to Nassau at 7:00 am landing at 7:30. It's is a trip I've done so many times that it requires very little thought. It's the waiting for the next flight at 3:00pm that's trying. Wandering around, finding internet to use, watching the tourists who are coming from Nassau. They are looking excited, sad or confused. Some are coming and still up tight. Some are leaving and wishing it wasn't over. There's also finding food. Most people do not know that the local workers eat from some great truck vendors just outside their view offering local fresh food that is made right there and at local prices, not tourist prices.

Then off to Florida for the night in Fort Lauderdale. I have to say Fort Lauderdale isn't one of my most favorite stops but a necessary evil and end up being there fairly frequently. It's a place that I really don't or want to spend much time in.

Saturday

Up and off to Newark, NJ to catch the flight to Dusseldorf, Germany. Here we would meet up with other bloggers that would be attendingBlogTour Cologne. Other bloggers were also flying in from other various countries but by morning we would all be there in Cologne.

This is an overnight flight that leaves Newark at 5 pm and arrives in Germany at 6 am. Given that I would be ending one day and starting another, it seemed like a good idea to try and get some sleep yet that was all too elusive. The best I got was a measly half hour and here we were with a new day upon us. Checking thru security, hotel check in and we decided to take a walk to The Dom Cathedral. Kölner Dom

The Dom

The Dom can be seen from all over Cologne and due to the bombing of WWII it was one of the few structures that remained basically untouched. It took over 600 years to build this incredible structure and it has survived so many historic events to this day.

On that Sunday we decided that we would visit it and possibly attend the Mass so off we traipsed thru the light snow and brisk winds to The Dom and when there we decided to attend the Sunday Mass that had a choir and was a full service. Now there is no heat and with all stone saying it was cold is an understatement. Our feet after the walk and now on the cold stone floor were like blocks of ice yet it was so worth it. Attending Mass, listening to the choir, smelling the incense made you steeped in years of history and amazement. What must it have been like for all those of years gone by attending a Sunday Mass here? What about all the generations that were born, saw it progressing, stone by stone and dying without ever seeing it completed?

Having taken over 600 years to build it is indeed something to see and the next time your client complains that you project is taking too long, just tell them the story of the Dom's construction!

We'll be looking further at The Dom as I took so many pictures of the structure, mosaics, stained glass and more that it couldn't possible be covered here.

Later in the afternoon we returned to the hotel Mercure and tried to get a rest but I got a 15 minute catnap and it was off to a dinner event. The trick to travel is to quickly get on the time zone you are going to so thus the lack of sleep till it was night time there.

Two days of travel, 45 minutes of sleep, three countries in three days, walking tours, visiting and attending Mass at the Dom, dinner courtesy of Blanco, drinks after that and we could call it a day!

Tomorrow would be the start of the IMM show with so many new designs and things to see!

Journey to #BlogTourCGN

2013-01-20T16:06:00.002-05:00

Well today is Friday 1/11/13 and my journey starts to BlogTourCGN in Cologne, Germany to attend IMM. So because we live in the Bahamas, my journey is a bit different.
Today I had work that needed to be finished so I was up at 3am so that I could have everything done and be ready to leave for the Governor's Harbour International airport. Sadly it was dark and I know you would get a kick out of seeing this place but I have no photo. This is the North Eleuthera International airport which is a duplicate of Governor's Harbour.

By the way- Harbour is spelled correctly- for here, as everything is based on when the English ruled so Colour, Harbour and other words still have a "u". The Bahamas are now an independent country.

After a long 7 mile drive to our airport it's off to Nassau, which is an easy flight of 20 minutes. Now for the fun part. I got here at 8:00 am and my flight to Florida isn't until 3pm. So to say the least, I have time to kill and can't even check in until 12:00pm.

First stop Dunkin Doughnuts for another coffee and then for breakfast. Now not generally know to tourists, there is a section on the outskirts of the airport where the locals eat. There's a few stands and a food truck that makes the best food for breakfast. Most tourist would hesitate to go here but having been in and out of this airport for so long, I know it's no problem and great food! Omelet cheese and the works on a bun= $4.00 and it's way better than eating at Wendy's inside.

There will be more of the journey on Monday but then we'll start to take a look at what we saw and learned while on #BlogTour Cologne in Germany and Amsterdam!

Event wish list for 2013 Updates

2013-01-19T18:00:00.000-05:00

Well 2012 is coming to a close and what a year it has been. As the last month of December starts I started to think about events that I would love to go to in 2013 and made this list. There's a few contests that I've entered too and I have my fingers crossed on those also!

Now you may wonder why I made this list and it's quite simple. I would love to attend these events but I need sponsors. Attending events such as these gives me a wealth of new information that I can write about and let others know what I saw and what I learned through the blog and my social media channels and soon to be new website.

I know that some may consider this taboo or begging to go to these events but I consider it good sense as it's a win/win situation for Companies, Readers and Myself.

Companies get the exposure from someone that will relate what was seen and learned.

Readers get to experience and learn about something that they couldn't attend.

I gain new knowledge, new material to write about and you know I will be spreading that to as many as I can.

So if you are interested in sponsoring me to attend one of these events or even one I haven't put on the list- Let's talk!

~~IMM January 14-20 Cologne, Germany~~ Yea- off to Germany with #BlogTourCGN

International Builders show Jan 22-24 Las Vegas

IDS13 Jan 24-27 Toronto, CA

Surfaces Jan 29-31 Las Vegas

Cervisama Febuary 5-8 Valencia, Spain

~~Brizo Fasion Week NYC- Feb 6-8~~ Another great event that I'll be attending!

Architectural Home Show New York March 21-24

KBIS April 19-21 New Orleans

Coverings April 29- May 2 Atlanta

Dwell on Design Los Angeles June 21-23

Design East Boston 9/30-10/3

The Remodeling Show Chicago, Il October 16-18

Underlined is just added

I'd love to hear from you and here's how we can start the conversation:
toddvendituoli@gmail.com

I should also mention that I think my list isn't complete so I'd love to hear any suggestions that you have too.

Just a #BlogTourCGN teaser

2013-01-19T10:52:00.002-05:00

I can't possibly tell you what a great experience it was to be part of BlogTourCGN. Actually I can and will! However now I"m still on the last leg of my journey home and sitting in the Nassau airport, so this is just a few pictures to share.

There will be so many more to come!

How true windows bring beauty and the value to your home

2013-01-19T06:00:00.000-05:00

Properly designed windows will make the house more comfortable for people to stay and also make the house stand out from the rest. The windows of your home can also have a significant impact on the beauty and value to the house. These are two good reasons to select windows that are designed to suit your tastes and needs. The Windows of your home should also be suitable to the climate conditions prevailing near your home. Below are some of the tips to select windows which can bring beauty and value to your home:

Use Glass and Grid Wisely

You can enhance the appeal of your home by selecting from a variety of glass and grid options to your windows. Many manufacturers are now offering a variety of glass options which range from tempered, obscured, to tinted for good energy efficiency,better privacy, and sound dampening. Select the right type of glass for your windows which can enhance the beauty as well as fulfill your other requirements. Good window grids can also enhance both the exterior and interior look of your home.

Think Outside the Box

Search and find a unique window design that can complement your home and lifestyle. If you desire simplicity, double-hung windows can be right for you. If your house has bigger walls on a particular side, then big sized picture windows can make a room look bright and give spectacular outdoor views. Some traditional window models like bay windows are again gaining popularity very fast. Thinking outside the box will lead to selecting window designs which look contemporary and unique.

Lower Energy Bills All Year Long

Select the right type of windows which will also lead to good savings on your energy bills. The latest technological advances make it easy to keep your home comfortable and energy efficient. If you live in in places with warm temperatures, using materials like vinyl and fiberglass in your windows will better insulate your home. Combining these windows made with these materials with multi-paned (double or triple) energy efficient glass and the right spacer system will help in easily controlling and regulating the temperature in your home. Use windows which are properly qualified by ENERGY STAR as they can help reduce your energy bills by as much as 15%. Before buying any windows make sure that they selected for your region and exceed the ENERGY STAR requirements.

Choose Glazing Carefully

Select the right glazing option for your windows. Glazing is most generally based on the aesthetics and thermal performance. But, many other factors come into picture too. If your house is situated in an industrial area or is proximate to an airport, you may choose an acoustic glass that will lower noise pollution. Obscure glass which is patterned attractively can help improving your privacy. Factory glazing is the generally recommended option as it will guarantee the performance of windows.

Following the above tips when installing your windows can help in bringing a spectacular and majestic look and add great value to your house.

About The Author: Kelly is a blogger by profession. She loves writing travelling and reading books. She contributes to World Financial Group. Check here for more on World Financial Group

Hello from #BlogTourCGN

2013-01-14T12:12:00.001-05:00

Hello everyone and my apologies for not having a new post but being in Germany at the IMM show with BlogTour Cologne has been wonderful. We're seeing so many new and beautiful so, fear not when I get back there will be many posts about my finds, what was seen and more but for now here's a few shots in Cologne, Germany and the gang of BlogTour Cologne.

Stay tuned as there's much more to come!

Hansgrohe/Axor- A #BlogTourCGN sponsor

2013-01-11T04:40:00.000-05:00

I'd like to take a few moments to look at this German company- Hansgrohe They are truly an outstanding company that produces innovations continually since 1901. In many respects I could do a whole piece on their company, innovations and use of top quality German engineering. These are all achievements to be proud of but I thought the saying if a picture is worth a thousand words...

So take a moment and look thru the below photos from the Axor line.

New heights of water-based pleasure:

Bathroom visions since 1901 – all thanks to our passion for water,
our love of innovation and perfection
and our responsibility to the environment and society.

Starck Shower Collection

Starck Organic

Massaud

Starck X

Montreux

Bouroullec

By just looking through this small sampling, I think you get an idea of the products and quality that Hansgrohe represents and this is just from the Axor line.

Hansgrohe is also fully committed to all avenues of social media and that is another aspect that pleases me greatly as I personally feel that social media adds a value addition to any company's marketing program.

Here again is a policy that just makes sense and adds value to their company and products. Actually it wouldn't make sense for a company in the Black Forest of Germany to do anything else would it? It's a part of their natural thinking.

For Hansgrohe, climate protection, sustainability and a sense of responsibility mean:

Water-saving and energy-saving products which stand the test of time
Environmentally-friendly sites and manufacturing technologies
Global environmental protection projects and education for the sustainable management of water resources
Social responsibility

As a further note, Hansgrohe is also a sponsor of BlogTour Cologne, of which I will be attending the IMM trade show. While in Germany, I am also hoping to meet with them and learn more about their company and products first hand. I will then be able to tell you more about this great company and what might be on the horizon from them. So stayed tuned for more updates!

Miele- A #BlogTourCGN sponsor

2013-01-10T06:00:00.000-05:00

If you are not familiar with Miele, they are not a new company but a German manufacturer that has been around since 1899. Just the length of time should tell you a bit about them. Companies that produce quality products continue, those that don't fade away. It's a simple concept and if you look at the meaning of "Immer Besser" below it's a statement that has served them well.

"Anything else is a compromise."

Here's a listing of some of their products. Were you aware of the depth of the Miele product line? It is truly impressive and of course if you visit the page you will get an even deeper look into the various lines- http://www.mieleusa.com/products/

Refrigeration
Refrigerators
Freezers
Refrigerator-Freezers
Wine Storage

Cooking Products
Ovens
Warming Drawers
Steam Ovens
Speed Ovens
Lift Doors
Combisets
Ventilation Hoods
Cooktops
Coffee Systems
Whole Bean
Nespresso
Optional Drawers

Dishwashers
Dishwashers Laundry Care
Washing Machines
Tumble Dryers
Rotary Irons

Vacuum Cleaners
Uprights
Canisters
Sticks

Coffee anyone?

Now as a devoted lover of all that is coffee, a Miele coffee system would be just a dream come true.

"One of the most notable statements made about this system is just how easy it is to operate. Simply choose from one of four options on the angled LCD display (espresso, coffee, hot water, or steam) and the coffee system will intuitively guide you to creating your desired beverage.!"

I don't believe that anything else needs to be said!

Take a look at their refrigerator/freezer options.

With so many features such as the Clear view lighting system, things never are hidden in the dark.

This is a feature that I'm sure we'll be seeing much more of in the future but Miele is already there.

WiFi? That's not new.

"Miele's RemoteVisionTM Wi-Fi technology creates a 'virtual link' between your appliance and our monitoring center.

If a fault occurs, Miele's client service center will be immediately notified and contact you, shortly thereafter, to gain access to your home in order to fix the problem."

This is the type of forward thinking that makes Miele a great company with great products. A company that withstands the rigors of time has to produce quality products and services but they also have to be thinking to the future.

Wine Storage

I can already hear you asking. Does it have "Remote Vision with WiFi?" The answer would be, of course. Have an expensive collection of wines and worried that the door was left open or the unit was off all weekend while you were away? No need to worry again.

Modern, sleek and efficient dishwashers that will enhance any kitchen while saving you energy

I would also like to thank Miele for being a sponsor of BlogTour Cologne of which I am honored to be attending and viewing some wonderful products with a great group of people!

For more info about Miele and their product line:

http://www.mieleusa.com/

Blanco, #BlogTourCGn and LivingKitchen

2013-01-09T06:00:00.000-05:00

In less than a week I'll be in Germany courtesy of Modenus' #BlogtourCGN and also thanks to one of the sponsors- Blanco. If you have followed this blog for a bit you know that Blanco also sponsored an event that Andie Day and I did in Boston this fall called #InStyleTour so I am no stranger to the people and products. All of which are top notch in every respect.

Now just in case you aren't familiar with Blanco, I'll give you a few of their products to see below and I'm sure you'll see why I'm such a fan.

The Culina faucet that was such a hit at InStyleTour and raffled to one lucky winner.

Maybe you've seen and admired the Cerana sink and didn't know it was from Blanco.

Matched together. It's something that I would surely want.

Maybe you have a smaller space but really want something that has it all in a smaller package?

The Chrystalline sink may be just what you need providing you with a beautiful sink and a top that creates more counter space when not in use as a sink. You can still have great style in a small space without having to make sacrifices.

The same sink in black and in the closed postion!

Now here is my personal favorite kitchen faucet.

The Meridian Semi Professional faucet. To me this just says- I love to prepare great food!

Now one of the things that I'm really excited about is going to see the LivingKitchen while at IMM in Cologne. Here I'm sure we'll be seeing some great new products from Europe and the photos and information will be incredible. I've also heard that Blanco is going to be showing some new products too so I'm really looking forward to that also.

The only thing that makes me a bit nervous about the whole trip is potentially missing something. There will be so much to take in, I wonder if it will be possible to do within the timeframe. I plan on soaking in and taking as many photos as is humanly possible!

How Colour Psychology Can Help You Build a Better Bathroom

2013-01-08T06:00:00.000-05:00

Colour is an important element when designing a bathroom. As colour psychology suggests, the colours you choose for your own bathroom can have an effect on emotional well-being and even people’s behavior.

Once you understand the different colours and the reactions they can elicit, you can pick the most appropriate colors. Of course, you should also consider your personal connections to specific colours. For example, blue can be calming but maybe you find it boring.

The Best Colours to Use in Bathrooms

These are the best colours for building or redesigning your bathroom:

Choose Blue. Calming, healing, soothing and relaxing are words associated with the colour blue. Blue also represents the element of water, which can give a bathroom a more oceanic feel. Another option is aqua, a shade of blue that helps a person release his negativity and anger.

Go for Green. Calming, balancing and healing are properties associated with green. It can bring a sense of vitality and freshness into a bathroom, but it’s also important to consider that people don’t look good surrounded by certain shades of green. You want to look in the mirror and like what you see — and colour can alter your perception.

When in White. This colour represents clarity, innocence, cleanliness, openness and purity — all good things for a bathroom. One reason bathroom fixtures are often white is because it also makes cleaning easier.

The above colours are not the only ones that can be used in bathrooms, but they prove a good place to start.

Tips for Choosing Colour in Bathrooms
The following are five pieces of advice for selecting the best hues for your loo.

Peach to beige tones are appropriate bathroom colours. Which means you might want to paint the walls behind any mirrors a colour in this range.
If you want to use bold colours in a bathroom, do so with accessories and accents, as opposed to paint colour.
Cool colours give the illusion of additional space to a bathroom.
If you can’t paint the walls, consider painting the ceiling to provide some visual interest.
If you choose any dark colours, make sure the room gets plenty of natural light.

Colour Choice Is Important

Now that you understand the importance of colour choice, you probably will give the colour you choose to paint your bathroom some careful thought. Consider the impact this colour might have on you and those who will regularly use the bathroom. What emotions do you want your bathrooms to evoke?

Image from Flickr’s Creative Commons

About the Author: James Powell is a DIY blogger who uses items from www.bathroomsandbasins.com in his bathroom renovations. He finds they have a selection of the best bathroom suites UK or elsewhere.

DuVerre Hardware - #BlogTourCGN sponsor

2013-01-07T06:00:00.000-05:00

Well Christmas came early this year as I was chosen to attend #BlogTour Cologne and when I was back in the US I received a package with a custom made key ring.

How exciting was this? A key ring in the shape of a "T" for Todd of course. Actually its not a custom made key chain for Todd but we can pretend, right?

In fact it's from the Polar collection that DuVerre offers and is made into a key chain.

Now if you are not familiar with DuVerre and their offering I would urge you to take a closer look at their hardware as they offer some stunning pieces. They offer a varied assortment with finishes for every kitchen.

"Our precision die cast hardware is manufactured entirely from recycled aluminum and is an environmentally friendly choice for professional and consumer alike. Du Verre Hardware is compatible with LEED objectives.

Du Verre Hardware is finished by hand, small variations in the final color may occur. These variations add warmth and beauty to each piece and are not considered a defect. Please keep that in mind when making your selection."

I really like the part of using Recycled aluminum so that's an added plus in my book.

I would also like to thank the DuVerre Company for being a sponsor of #BlogTourCGN (Cologne) and having me be part of this great group and get to partake in a remarkable trade show- IMM which is in Cologne Germany.

Please take a moment and look through the DuVerre website and I'm sure you will be thrilled to see what their designers have to offer and how they could be used in your home.

http://www.duverre.com/

Sunday Funday photos and video

2013-01-06T06:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Sunday everyone and as a New Year starts, it's much like a new sunrise. Everything is fresh to start anew!

Sunrise from Cupid's Cay

The Moon was out at the same time as the sun was rising!

Early morning fisherman on Cupid's Cay

Uninhabited cay off of Cupid's Cay

Saturday night on Cupid's Cay can be lively. This was last night!

I hope you're having a great Sunday!!!!

Plugs, phones and staying connected- #BlogTourCGN

2013-01-04T06:00:00.000-05:00

In about a week's time I'll be headed to Germany for #BlogTourCGN in Cologne. Excited doesn't even come close but there were many things that had to be thought of beforehand. One of the things is electrical use. I have no idea if the hotel or places that we will be at will have adapters so I purchased a set that will work all over the world for my equipment.

In this set there is the adapter that I will need for Germany as they use a two prong plug. Electrical needs done!

Worldwide adapter kit

The next thing I needed was a way to make my IPhone 5 which is unlocked work on the Germany network. This is similar to here in the Bahamas except the Iphone 5 uses a Nano Sim card. So what I did was buy a standard size sim card that works here, put it in the cutter and viola I have a BTC sim card that's a nano that works on my phone using their network. This is what I'll also do in Germany. Buy a Sim card on a German network, get a plan for a week and install it in my phone. (Check to see with your carrier if your phone is locked or unlocked or you could always use their international plan but beware of the costs!)
I will then have service to use that won't be on an international rate! Phone, internet, Twitter.... Done!

Sim card cutter

To me a good camera is a necessity. Phones take fine pictures but when you really want to take great quality photos a good camera is needed for close up and distance shots.

Camera with extra lenses

Now I plan on taking many, many pictures so I already have an 8GB card but for a minimal cost I bought this 32GB card. I hate relying on only one card as things happen and then you're left searching. Camera storage- Done!

SD Card for my camera

I also bought a 64 GB Flash drive so that I can backup what I get from the trip on this from my computer. This way while I'm going I'll have the computer and the flash drive as double back up's.

64 GB Flash Drive

I know it seems like a lot of redundancy and all but I have full expectations of making this a great trip and I want to try and insure that everything that can be done and accounted for is. Oh yea I'm bringing clothes too along with my laptop and an Ipad.

Can you think of anythings else that I've forgotten?

Back to Eleuthera

2013-01-03T11:22:00.001-05:00

Well after a wonderful time visiting family in New England over the holidays we're back in Eleuthera. I have to admit it was just in time as the temperatures there were going into the negatives numbers.

The view today in Eleuthera.

The view in Maine.

Both were beautiful but right now I'm happier with the Eleuthera setting.

So yesterday was the usual travel day and it passed as always and today I finished making my travel arrangements for #BlogTourCologne. It's going to be a busy month and include travel in four countries with various climates and various clothing. But I'm soooo looking forward to it and only a week away!

Quick home fixes anyone can do

2013-01-02T06:00:00.000-05:00

There are home repair projects that people can do, and there are home repair projects that people should not do. Remember that drywall you attempted to install yourself?

But, too often is the line between what can be done as a DIY project and what needs to outsourced to a professional blurred by misunderstanding of the situation. Too often do we get lazy and spend way too much money to have someone else do work we could have easily done ourselves.

No worries, though. I’m here to un-blur that line. Fear not, you can do these projects and save a pretty penny.

1) Drywall pops

Drywall pops are pretty common in new homes, but they can certainly happen in any home. A drywall pop is a nail that has moved from under the surface of the drywall and popped through the finish. So on we go to the repair:

Materials you’ll need – Paint scraper, hammer or screwdriver (depending on whether the pop is a nail or screw), joint compound, sander.

Step 1 – Using your paint scraper, chip away the bit of material that is no longer flush with the wall.

Step 2 – Using your hammer or screwdriver, drive the hammer or screw back into the wall.

Step 3 – Apply your joint compound to the area.

Step 4 – When dry, sand the area carefully until flush.

2) The Phantom Flush

Have you ever been at work all day and come home to a running toilet? Makes you think, eh? A client recently told me that they thought someone had been in their house because the toilet was acting as if it had just been flushed. This is called the phantom flush and it is actually fairly easy to remedy.

Materials you’ll need – Bucket, new flapper (the flapper is the piece in the tank attached to a chain. It sits just above the flapper seat).

Step 1 – Turn off the water supply to the toilet using the shut-off valve. This is located behind the toilet on the wall near the base of the wall.

Step 2 – Using your bucket, drain the toilet bowl and tank.

Step 3 – Check the flapper seat and clean it, if necessary.

Step 4 – Check and replace the flapper if there is any sign of wear and tear.

3) Reattaching wallpaper

Wallpaper is always pesky. It’s also one of the most common problems that people just replace before trying to fix. Reattaching wallpaper that is coming off the wall is pretty easy to fix. This problem is most prevalent in bathrooms because of humidity that accumulates in the room from showers, toilets, and hot sink water.

Materials you’ll need: Border adhesive or white glue, damp sponge, caulk.

Step 1: Carefully peel back lifted section and apply your border adhesive or white glue to the wall directly beneath the wallpaper.

Step 2: Use a damp sponge to smooth the wallpaper back into place. (NOTE: This sponge should not be wet, just damp. Also, using some type of water softener to dampen the sponge will ensure the longevity of your work)

Step 3: Once the area has dried completely, apply caulk to the seam between the wallpaper and the wall (should be at the base).

Think you’re up to it? I do, so go a do it.

Diane Kuehl is a home improvement professional and owner of DIY Mother. She lives in Springfield, Illinois with her husband and two kids.

Happy New Year

2013-01-01T06:00:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year!!

Happy New Year and Welcome 2013

2012-12-31T06:33:00.000-05:00

It seems that as the years pass and I grow older, the time passes at a quicker pace too. Days quickly becomes weeks and weeks turn into months that just seem to have started and ended in a blink of an eye. Yet 2012 was a good year and I have much to be grateful for.

The family is doing well and the kids are all progressing in their own lives and directions. As parents, having them make their own choices and directions has always been important to us.

Business for us has been redirected and has shown us some great potential. In 2013, I believe that we will see an incredible growth in our path of social media and marketing and with a new website- HomeCentrl to be launched, I'm expecting some big things.

Sadly construction has ended but when one door shuts, another opens. Actually I'm a believer in making the doors open and not waiting or relying on fate to totally direct my path.

We're starting the new year with a trip courtesy of Modenus to Germany to see the IMM trade show and LivingKitchen with an incredible group of people. There's also a few other shows that I may be attending so I have my fingers crossed but it's looking like a great start to the year as I cross shows off my want to attend list-

We hosted some wonderful events in Boston with some great people and Blanco as well as Tile of Spain. I'm looking to expanding those in 2013 too.

So 2012 wasn't bad but I'm expecting 2013 to be a fabulous one and I'm wishing you all a Happy New Year and hoping that you are granted all that you desire and need in 2013!

Happy New Year!!!!

Sunday Funday photos

2012-12-30T06:00:00.000-05:00

As you may know, Sid and I are back in New England for the holidays and as much as I was hoping to miss a snow storm, we got a biggie. After so many years of winter, I like to look at it but not necessarily be immersed in it any longer.

The first snow of 2012 in Maine at my parent's house.

Driving through the White Mountains in snow squalls.

Winter scene in Vermont

Ice flowing off the side of a mountain.

This is by Lake Willoughby and as the ice gets thicker and harder you will see many ice climbers tackling this section . It's not something I've ever been interested in but many seem to relish the challenge.

Burke Mountain ski area. It had been covered in clouds all day which meant it was snowy over there so when I glimpsed a break, I was able to get this shot.

He's got his coat on and having a meal to keep warm.

A cornfield and distant winter views. I must admit I have gotten used to sunny skies daily and the gray of winter makes me want to settle in for a nap.

Lake Willoughby in winter. The ice is just starting to form as this is a deep lake at over 400' in spots so it takes a bit for the water to totally cool down enough to freeze.

Lake Willoughby and the mountain shoreline.

The Mountain View Inn, East Burke, Vermont

A boat house by Lake Willoughby that has seen better days.

Almost all secondary roads in Vermont are gravel so when winter comes they look just like this and really aren't for the inexperienced winter driver. Having driven these roads for years I find the slipping, sliding along and going sideways, just a normal thing.

So wherever or whatever you're doing today, I hope you're enjoying the last Sunday of 2012!

The Making of a Modern Home

2012-12-28T06:10:00.002-05:00

A look at possibilities - some I can see and some seem a bit far fetched.

Modern Home Infographic

The 10 most popular posts of 2012

2012-12-27T06:00:00.000-05:00

Well 2012 is just about over so I thought I would do a recap of the 10 most popular posts this year according to the number of views by you.

1. Window Trim Styles

2. Bermuda roofs

3. Building a home

4. Managing costs in a kitchen remodel

5. Creating storage space under stairs

6. Home designing-Stylish wood furniture

7. Kitchen storage space

8. The staircase

9. Family flooring myths dispelled

10. Making the most out of your tiny kitchen space

I would also like to take this time to thank you all for making 2012 such a great year for the BuildingBlox and I hope you enjoy the changes that you will be seeing in 2013 with the addition of our new website-
HomeCentrl

May 2013 bring you all great personal and professional success!

Eco-Friendly, Money Saving Options for Heating Your Household Water

2012-12-26T06:00:00.000-05:00

Green, cost-effective heating alternatives for the winter months ahead

However, there are home heating alternatives that are eco-friendly and not financially straining on your bank account. The following home heating options take a green approach to energy usageómeaning they consume less energy as you turn up the heat; thus their kinder on the environment. Plus, these options steer away from non-renewable, carbon-based fuels like oil and natural gas, which dole out harmful C02 emissions (gas) can prove dangerous if located near a water source (oil).
So if you want to do your part for the environment and save some cash this hard, cold winter, look to the following alternative home heating options.
1. Try a wood burning stove
A wood burning stove is one of the most eco-friendly home heating options that you can choose. A wood stove puts out enough heat to warm your entire homestead, and it will also save you a decent amount of cash when it comes to on utility costs as well. Why? Because new wood stoves burn biomass fuel, which is constructed of a mix of recycled paper, pellets, or corn husks. And it burns totally clean with zero harmful emissions. Plus, you donít have to go outside in your long underwear to chop and gather wood at all hours of the night. Biomass fuel pellets donít require a lot of storage space. Better yet, a wood stove really gives you full control of your home heatingófor instance, you can light it in the morning before work to heat the upstairs bedrooms and cut the fire while youíre at work and asleep to save on biomass and burning when you donít require warmth, which really cuts down on waste.

2. Heat your home with Geothermal
I learned about geothermal residential heating when I needed a replacement water heater last year. I started exploring alternative and more eco-friendly options for home heating and water heating that would cut my monthly utility bills and my monthly energy consumption. The great thing about geothermal systems is that they use very little energyóin fact the only energy required is a small amount used to run the systemís pump as it takes heat directly from the Earthís core, which ranges within the 60-degrees Fahrenheit mark. Geothermal systems work by pushing cold water through pipes into the earthís core. The water circulates from your home to the earth and when it returns to your tap itís hot! Yes, Geothermal heating can costs upwards of $15,000 to install, however, itís a short term expense for long term savings when you consider that the system will virtually eradicate monthly water and electricity bills from your local utility.

3. Reconsider electric heat
You probably read that twice considering that heating with electricity can be really outrageously pricy! However, when you consider strategically placed space heaters, youíre suddenly looking at a heat source that you can control and only use when you absolutely need to. For instance, you can wisely manage your use of electricity when you use energy efficient space heaters in specific rooms that you use often, and turn them on (i.e., a half an hour before bedtime in your bedroom and upstairs bathroom). I have electric heating at the cottage and purposefully set my space heaters to automatically shut off overnight to save on utility costs.

About The Author
Tina Jacobs is a registered nurse, DIY maven who has written and blogger for DIY Mother as well as numerous print and online publications ranging in topics from education to health and from home renovations to interior decorating. Tina is a proud Georgetown University graduate, and is currently expanding her writing portfolio while she waits to take her NCLEX nursing exam.

Merry Christmas

2012-12-24T06:18:00.002-05:00

Tomorrow is Christmas and we just wanted to wish you the very best from our family to yours. May it be a day to spend and cherish with family and friends enjoying their company and conversations.

May Santa bring all the things that you truly need and desire!

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all!

Sunday Funday- Buoy Ball Bocce

2012-12-23T06:00:00.000-05:00

Last week we played a new game. Well actually the game isn't new by any means but how it was played was. Buoy Ball Bocce!
(This was going to be posted earlier but the tragedy in Connecticut put this on the back burner and as we approach Christmas please keep all those affected in your thoughts and prayers.)

Metal Buoy Balls found through beach walks. The softball is the jack that you want to get closest to.

The jack is thrown and then each perso gets a turn trying to get their buoy closet to the jack.

Bocce field where we played.

The bocce field is a field on the edge of the beach facing the Atlantic Ocean.

Seeing who got the closest to the jack and who gets the point. One point for the person that gets closest and the game goes to 21.

There were some close calls and we did accurate measures - by foot- to see who the winner was.

This was as close to the edge as we went. No one wanted to go down the 30' bank to have to retrieve the Buoy Bocce Ball.

So with a bit of inventiveness and a free Sunday afternoon, Buoy Ball Bocce was concieved!