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August, 2019

  1. Home Improvement Projects: Things You Should Consider

    August 31, 2019 by Thomas Herr

    There are plenty of home projects to take care of if you have an understanding of how to complete them. This article has many great tips to help you out with these projects. Read carefully in order to get as much information as you can.

    Decide which room in your home will be the focus of your first renovation project. Keep in mind that remodeling can be tackled room by room to preserve your budget. If you make your plans in advance, you can incorporate significant bargains into the process. Planning your home improvement projects in advance can help you to save more money in the long run.

    TIP! Consider your home and your neighborhood’s character when deciding on updates and improvements. Adding classic Victorian details to your home would look out of place in a neighborhood with Cape Cod homes.

    It is always wise to shop around and look for the best deal when purchasing supplies for your home improvement project. Flooring of any type can cost a lot, especially if you’re looking at hardwood or tile. It’s always best to compare prices from a variety of different outlets. Shop at discount home supply stores and find stores that offer bargains.

    Think about adding insulation to your home. Put weather stripping on the windows and doors. If you can reduce the air flow into the house, you will get more efficiency from your furnace and air conditioning. This lets you keep to any household budget.

    Make sure all bathrooms, the laundry room and the kitchen all have exhaust fans. By venting humidity to the outdoors, you will reduce the chance of problems with mold and mildew. Also, you can halt condensation that can collect inside walls, thus preventing rot.

    TIP! Update your flooring and replace old carpet. Good and reputable flooring companies can do wonders for your floor.

    Stain your basement floors in order to achieve a more attractive basement. Staining a concrete floor is not only stylish, it is cheaper than replacing it. By staining the floor, you improve its durability and cut the time needed to keep it clean. There are many options, so you can go as shiny or as plain as you would like to. This will allow your floors to look great, like they cost more than they really do.

    Chandeliers have a place in even modest homes today. For less than $500, you can get a beautiful lighting piece to enhance your room. Total wattage of 200-400 adds extra sparkle and shine.

    In this article, we have provided some valuable advice to help with your next home improvement project. Doing even a minor home improvement on your own can both make life easier and provide personal satisfaction. Use this information and enjoy the feeling of having accomplished something wonderful for your home.


  2. SBA Celebrates Woman-Owned Veteran Small Businesses

    August 29, 2019 by Thomas Herr

    Woman Business Owners from around the country join U.S. Small Business Administration Administrator Maria Contreras-Sweet for this special Veteran’s Day Google Hangout-On-Air.

    This post is aligned with a network of sites interested with the intersection of small business, the philanthropic sector and government in creating healthy and sustainable communities.

    Find additional information and resources on nonprofit information, educational grants and Civic Engagement programs from around the world.


  3. Need To Freshen Up Your Home? Review These Tips!

    August 29, 2019 by Thomas Herr

    If you are not confident about your actions, home improvement may be overwhelming. If you do not know exactly where to start on your project, take a look at these tips and see if you can find the assistance you need to get them done right.

    A beginner’s tip for home improvement is to think about what you personally want to accomplish. Give a personalized touch to each of your projects that reflect your personality.

    TIP! Even a small home improvement project can mean a big increase in your home’s value. If you want to sell your home, think about doing a few minor projects.

    Store material that you’re using for building between floor joists or ceiling rafters. Pieces of molding that are long, and materials that are larger than that can be placed in this area with minimal effort. Just hammer some furring strips in place across a pair of exposed joists and slide in what you want to store.

    Before you hire anyone to do home improvement work on your house, carefully check their references. Think of this as hiring someone to work for a business. Look closely at their background, and ensure that their past clients have been happy with their work.

    It is important to turn the breaker off when doing any electrical work. Failing to disconnect the power and touching live wires can result in electrocution or death.

    TIP! Applying a new coat of paint to your porch may be needed. It is important that you do not scrimp on quality when purchasing this exterior paint.

    It’s considerate to meet with neighbors if you’re planning any renovations in the future. The noise and debris from construction work may be off-putting for some people. Your neighbors will be significantly less annoyed if they know what to expect and for how long.

    Do not ignore any minor issues with mold and/or rust. Particularly in older homes, these can become a common sight that may cause major damage. It’s much simpler to address the issue when it can be fixed quickly. Waiting until they’re major issues can be time-intensive and costly. Bleach can help with mold. You can usually sand away small patches of rust.

    By utilizing these tips, it is possible to know in advance what to expect during the course of your improvement project. These insights may also help you decide whether you can go it alone, or if your project needs the expertise of an outside party.


  4. SBA 8(a) Business Development Program Webinar

    August 28, 2019 by Thomas Herr

    This video explains how the SBA’s 8(a) Program works, its eligibility requirements, technical assistance available to small disadvantaged businesses through the program and common myths about the program.

    This post is aligned with a network of sites interested with the intersection of small business, the philanthropic sector and government in creating healthy and sustainable communities.

    Find additional information and resources on small business grants and loans, home buyer programs and impact investment programs from around the world.


  5. From Idea to Business – SCORE Success Story

    August 27, 2019 by Thomas Herr

    Learn how with the assistance of a SCORE mentor, this woman turned her wall art idea into a viable business.

    This post is aligned with a network of sites interested with the intersection of small business, the philanthropic sector and government in creating healthy and sustainable communities.

    Find additional information and resources on nonprofit information, educational grants and Civic Engagement programs from around the world.


  6. Tips For A Successful Home Improvemnet Project

    August 27, 2019 by Thomas Herr

    Renovation projects are very popular with homeowners. For some, it is a matter of expanding to accommodate a growing family or changing needs; for others, it is a need for cosmetic updates or in preparation for a sale. There are always improvements to be made on a home. This article offers many tips and techniques to make your home improvement projects a breeze.

    The amount of money that you are going to get as a return of the investment must be compared to how much you value the personal touches you are considering adding to your home. When your changes are very personal, others may not appreciate them.

    TIP! Switch out your air filters often. It is healthy for the inside of your home and will get more life from your furnace and AC unit.

    When you’re doing any kind of home improvement, make sure you’re taking notes on what surrounds you and stick to improvements that are smart. For instance, having an uncovered deck in Arizona or a sun room that has no ventilation in Michigan would be nonsensical renovations that will have potential buyers questioning your house upkeep decisions. Do things to a home that need to be done, but don’t do anything extra that the climate won’t allow.

    For a cheaper tile job for your floor, use vinyl instead of stone or ceramic tile. Vinyl is a strong substance that can stand up to water and can be easily installed thanks to adhesive backing. The vinyl tiles can be bought as a single sheet or as a tile set.

    If you are not able to get a designer, you can do it yourself. Try some websites, books and magazines for some help. That magazine layout might actually be your total inspiration for your home. In addition, these resources can inform you on how to perform cheaper renovation projects.

    TIP! Get great looking drywall with a simple sponge! Instead of sanding out your drywall’s seams, take a sponge to them. Once you’re used to it, you can smooth out drywall seams with a damp sponge just as well as you could sanding.

    If you are thinking about replacing a lock, you should know that you can either replace the cylinder or the whole assembly. The part of the lock called the cylinder is a piece that does the locking action. Just replace the cylinder if your only goal is to make sure your old, lost key won’t work in the door anymore. If you want the door to look better or want added security, just go ahead and replace the whole unit.

    When thinking about projects that can improve your home, do not overlook the landscaping. This is the one of first things people notice about your home, and you don’t want it to look shabby. Keep up your yard work. Add flowers and shrubs. This will greatly enhance your home’s look.

    As you can probably see, home improvements are popular projects because people always want to increase their home’s value. There’s always work to do around the house. With the advice you have learned here, you are sure to find some help, regardless of your skill level.


  7. Grants From The Department of Labor

    August 26, 2019 by Thomas Herr

    The Department of Labor was primarily created to nurture, promote and develop the welfare of job seekers, wage earners, and retirees of the United States of America, as well as to improve the country’s working conditions, advance employment opportunities and ensure work-related rights and benefits.

    This post is part of a network of sites interested with the intersection of small business, the philanthropic sector and government in creating healthy and sustainable communities.

    Find additional information and resources on small business grants and loans, home buyer programs and Community Foundation programs from around the world.


  8. What You Need To Know About Grants.Gov

    August 25, 2019 by Thomas Herr

    Grants.gov features over 1,000 grant programs from 26 different federal grant-making agencies in the United States. Most of the grants that are found on Grants.gov are mainly for organizations and institutions, only a few of them are for individuals.

    This post is part of a network of sites interested with the intersection of small business, the philanthropic sector and government in creating healthy and sustainable communities.

    Find additional information and resources on small business grants and loans, home buyer programs and Community Foundation programs from around the world.


  9. Wonderful Advice On Your Next Amazing Home Improvement Project

    August 25, 2019 by Thomas Herr

    The design of improving your home is more extending that putting in a new floor. You must plan, research and execute if you want to enhance the beauty of your home. You can use the following tips to learn more about home improvement techniques in order to make your home the best it can be. This will help you to save money, and build the house of your dreams.

    Build an original additional to your home for some class or sophistication. Think of dedicated rooms for uncommon purposes, such as a classy billiard parlor (instead of a mere game room) or a well-appointed wine cellar. Future home buyers and guests will be impressed by your improvements.

    TIP! Use a porch light with a motion sensor to cut down on your electric bill. You can still turn the light on manually when you need to, and most models also let you fine tune the sensitivity.

    Put old things in shoe boxes for extra storage space. Use fabric or wallpaper to cover the boxes and create an appealing design. You can add a lot of pizazz to your room and storage!

    When doing home improvements, consider your surroundings and just improve items that make sense. Things like adding a sun roof in Seattle would make nearly no sense. Do things to a home that need to be done, but don’t do anything extra that the climate won’t allow.

    Ceramic tiles can really lose luster over time. They can even look grungy. You can improve its look with a safe solution of vinegar and water. Fill a bucket with this solution and start mopping your floors. This will eliminate the dirt and grime, making the floors look shiny and new.

    TIP! Home improvement tasks can be ‘improved’ by the use of the correct tools. Jobs can be done more easily and, more importantly, done correctly with the right tools.

    You can organize your carport or garage by using clear plastic storage containers. Label all plastic organizers for stacking. This tactic won’t cost you a lot and will protect your things from insects.

    Create a visually pleasing bookcase with the use of some wallpaper. First, choose a design that you like. For a creative look, apply the wallpaper you have picked out on the inside of your bookshelf. Not only will this bring an old bookcase back to life, it will be a signature piece in your room.

    Everyone can enjoy making home improvements. When you are new, give yourself time to learn the necessary skills. Proceeding carefully and following the instructions, you will be able to finish impressive projects that you at first thought were beyond you.


  10. SBA – Small Business Investment Companies

    August 24, 2019 by Thomas Herr

    The Small Business Administration has inititiated the Small Business Investment Companies program to help in developing privately owned and managed investment companies which will be licensed and regulated by the Small Business Administration to provide equity capital, long term loans, and advisory services to small business requiring such services.

    This post is aligned with a network of sites interested with the intersection of small business, the philanthropic sector and government in creating healthy and sustainable communities.

    Find additional information and resources on small business grants and loans, home buyer programs and impact investment programs from around the world.


  11. Improving Your Home: Useful Tips To Live By

    August 23, 2019 by Thomas Herr

    Have you ever decided against home improvement thanks to hearing about bad experiences from family and friends? If these people did a bit of research, they would not have faced any problems. You can pick up a lot of solid home improvement advice by reading the tips presented here.

    You can add storage to your rooms by simply recycling old shoe boxes. Use fabric or old wallpaper to cover the boxes. This is an excellent way to add storage and drama to any room.

    TIP! Weather stripping installed around doors and windows can make your home energy efficient. Weather stripping allows your cooling and heating unit to operate more efficiently by locking in cool and hot air.

    If you’re using a contractor, have a signed contract in place before work begins. If you are undertaking an expensive home improvement project, it might be worth it to spend about $150 to have a lawyer review your home improvement contract before signing it. Look over things like the amount, completion dates, and anything else that you want to have confirmed.

    Construction adhesive can help eliminate a squeaking floor. Even if you have to work out of the basement or crawl under the house, it will be worth the while. With a caulking gun, place a line of construction glue along the sides of each floor joist, allowing the glue to secure each adjoining subfloor plank to your joists.

    You can make decorative pillows easily. Trendy shirts, pants, and other old clothes can be made into decorative pillowcases. This can add personality and lighten the mood in a young teenager’s private space.

    TIP! New furniture is expensive. Check garage sales and local thrift shops for attractive and interesting finds in furnishings.

    If you’re taking on a home improvement task yourself, make sure you use high quality supplies and tools. The start up costs will be higher, but in the end, you will save more money this way. Better quality products survive wear and tear and last longer. Most tools are expensive; therefore, it is best to ensure high-quality tools to avoid replacement costs.

    Install peepholes on your doors. Before you open up your front door, you should ask who it is. Installing a peephole is affordable and can be done quickly. You just need a drill and an hour or so out of your day. The security this improvement offers is well worth it.

    There are new dangers to keep an eye out for when doing home improvement. Try to refrain from purchasing drywall that comes from the country of China. Since 2005, a great deal of the drywall used in the U.S. building industry has been sourced from China. Most of this drywall hasn’t undergone a rigorous quality assurance process. Some of it even exudes harmful gases capable of corroding wires that reside in walls.

    Landscaping Project

    Before starting any major landscaping project, make certain the new style will complement everything about your house. Integrating the look of the exterior of your home with the new landscaping project will ensure a pleasant result that you will be happy to live with over time.

    As stated in the beginning of this article, many home improvement disasters can be prevented by doing you research on home repairs before even beginning the process. Since reading this article, you can make any home repair successfully if you use the included advice.


  12. HUBZone Certification Program Webinar

    August 22, 2019 by Thomas Herr

    This video explains the basics of the HUBZone certification program for small business federal contractors.

    HUBZone certification allows certain small businesses to compete for set-aside contracts aimed at spurring investment in low median income or high unemployment areas.

    This post is part of a network of sites interested with the intersection of small business, the philanthropic sector and government in creating healthy and sustainable communities.

    For more information on small business grant and home ownership programs visit TopGovernmentGrants.com.


  13. Small Business Administration Loan Guarantees Program

    August 21, 2019 by Thomas Herr

    The Small Business Administration has established the Loan Guarantees Program wherein they aim to be able to provide guaranteed loans to small business establishments which are not capable of acquiring financing from a private credit marketplace but greatly manifests the ability to repay funds in a timely manner.

    This post is aligned with a network of sites interested with the intersection of small business, the philanthropic sector and government in creating healthy and sustainable communities.

    Find additional information and resources on small business grants and loans, home buyer programs and impact investment programs from around the world.


  14. Grants From The Department of Justice

    August 21, 2019 by Thomas Herr

    The DOJ was initially established to ensure the enforcement of the law and administration of justice, which is equivalent to the justice or interior ministries of other countries all over the world.

    Ever since it’s establishment, the Department of Justice has been running programs and activities that could potentially improve the law enforcement system in the United States.

    This post is aligned with a network of sites interested with the intersection of small business, the philanthropic sector and government in creating healthy and sustainable communities.

    Find additional information and resources on nonprofit information, educational grants and Civic Engagement programs from around the world.


  15. Planning A Home Improvement Project? Read This Advice

    August 21, 2019 by Thomas Herr

    You must know what you’re doing before starting any home improvement projects. Keep reading for important things to keep in mind when undertaking any home repairs. People of all experience levels can benefit from this information.

    Replace your air conditioning filter from time to time. When it clogs, your unit will not be energy efficient. You may also be using way more electricity than necessary. Be sure and replace your filter about once every month.

    TIP! Apply striping to the walls prior to doing a paneling installation. Regardless of how much care and caution you use when putting up paneling, old walls have a tendency to peek through.

    When completing a home improvement project, the tools you use can be the difference between success and disaster. This will help make sure the job is done right. You should also make sure to read the instructions on using the tool correctly for the best results on your project.

    Hardwood Floors

    Prior to investing in hardwood floors, ask a professional first about the floors you already have in your home. Often, there are beautiful hardwood floors hidden under layers of old linoleum and carpet. You are going to get nicer floors while spending much less.

    TIP! Make nail holes along the rim of the paint can! This will prevent paint from filling the channels of the metal paint cans, and as a result they will not spill when you replace the cover. With a nail, put several holes in paint can’s perimeter, in the bottom of that channel, to avoid a problem.

    If your work takes place anywhere near a gas line, such as a fireplace, dryer or the kitchen, turn the gas off before getting into your project. Caution is the best guide for these projects. There are dangers involved when working with gas, and you don’t want to cause a fire or injury.

    The quality of a great door cannot be underestimated. It will be the very first and very last thing guest will view. You can lose tons of heat through uninsulated, poorly fitting doors. Security is also an issue for doors with old or inferior frames and locks.

    New fixtures such as handles and knobs for your cabinets can brighten up any kitchen. They can quickly update a tired outdated look, are quick to install, and inexpensive to purchase. Clean your cabinets once you’ve removed the old knobs since it will be easier to do without them in the way. Once they’re clean, add your new knobs.

    TIP! If your wall has small holes from hanging pictures or paintings, use paint and spackle to make the walls look new. Buy the spackle at your local home improvement shop.

    If you are beginning a renovation in your kitchen or bathroom, make sure to shut off the water supply to those rooms before beginning work on any plumbing or fixtures. While this should be obvious, too many homeowners forget to turn the water supply off. As a result, they end up with floods and rooms that require further renovating to repair water damage.

    Extra Bricks

    Buying extra bricks can be a great idea so that you’ll be able to match them in the future if necessary. When you are going to be adding to brick work, it can be hard to match the color. The style of bricks changes frequently. By purchasing extra bricks, you will ensure that you can match the bricks in the future.

    TIP! When doing home improvement projects, you must have the proper tools. Using proper tools makes it easy to do the job right the first time without unnecessary effort.

    As previously mentioned, you must know what you’re doing. The article’s information is helpful for both people who know some things about home repairs and those who know nothing. Apply this advice as you determine which projects to tackle.


  16. Small Business Development Centers – An Introduction

    August 19, 2019 by Thomas Herr

    Small Business Development Centers are partnerships between universities and the Small Business Administration, to provide management and technical assistance to businesses on a very large scale.

    This post is aligned with a network of sites interested with the intersection of small business, the philanthropic sector and government in creating healthy and sustainable communities.

    Find additional information and resources on nonprofit information, educational grants and Civic Engagement programs from around the world.


  17. Small Business Grants – Support for Veterans

    August 19, 2019 by Thomas Herr

    The SBA is dedicated to lend a hand to the service people in America and directly links with the Patriot Express Loan for veterans who desire to initiate their own business and want to start commercial activities. The SBA also plays a role in encouraging growth and job creation during the process, which is an indispensable part to support economic prosperity.

    This post is aligned with a network of sites interested with the intersection of small business, the philanthropic sector and government in creating healthy and sustainable communities.

    Find additional information and resources on nonprofit information, educational grants and Civic Engagement programs from around the world.


  18. How To Plan A Fabulous Home Improvement Project

    August 19, 2019 by Thomas Herr

    Increasing the value of your home can be done easily by doing home improvements. Here are some great ways to boost the value of the home by remodeling. The following article offers some simple solutions that won’t cost a bundle and will help you maximize your home’s worth.

    Buying a microwave built for over-the-range installation can free up a little valuable counter-top real estate in your kitchen. You can find these type of microwave ovens in a variety of prices. Many of them have special features like convection cooking. They are great for making all types of foods. This can change the way you cook forever.

    TIP! Keep an eye out for deals on carpet installation offered by national chains. In order to increase sales of carpeting, they often include very low cost installation packages for their customers.

    One way you can improve your home is by installing solar panels. The high initial investment will be offset by years of lower electric bills. This helps save money on your power bill because a majority of the energy comes from what you have stored. This is a great, natural method for providing power to your home.

    Write a list of things you might need before going to the store. This will make it less likely that you’ll have to return to the store for something you forgot to get.

    When your home has a nice view, it is generally worth more than a similar house without a view. If you pay more for the view from your home, keep in mind that this may be to your individual taste only. But, because beauty is often in the eye of the beholder, the impact of your house’s view on its value may vary from potential buyer to buyer.

    TIP! Instead of choosing a pre-made coffee table, choose something unique. An old chest or piece of luggage used as a coffee table can double as storage space.

    Have a decent lighting fixture installed in all of the commonly accessed room; the new view can create a huge impact on how you view the walls and furniture. A bright room feels warm and inviting. Choosing to install an extra light fixture can add extra brightness to a given space. Increasing the light in darker rooms will do wonders to improve the look of your entire house.

    In conclusion, you can increase your home’s value and prevent loss of money by using this advice. Then as the time to sell approaches, you can be confident knowing that your home looks great and stands out among all the others in the area, making it much easier to sell quickly.


  19. SCORE Services to Small Business – An Introduction

    August 18, 2019 by Thomas Herr

    In an excerpt from a 2010 interview the SCORE CEO discusses its counseling and workshops offerings to small businesses.

    This post is aligned with a network of sites interested with the intersection of small business, the philanthropic sector and government in creating healthy and sustainable communities.

    Find additional information and resources on small business grants and loans, home buyer programs and impact investment programs from around the world.


  20. Getting Started On Home Improvements – Useful Advice To Know In Advance

    August 16, 2019 by Thomas Herr

    There are quite a few reasons why people put money into improving their home. It could be a small project or a huge one. There are several factors you need to consider when planning a home improvement project. This article can help you manage your home improvement projects more efficiently.

    Increase your home’s energy efficiency by adding weather stripping to your doors and windows. This fix is very inexpensive, and it goes a long way in helping seal both cold and hot air out of your home. You will quickly notice the reduction in drafts felt on chilly days.

    TIP! As you plan a home renovation, think about the difference in value between something you personally like and something that will appeal to potential future buyers. Highly customized projects may not be a potential buyer’s taste and may even detract from your home’s value.

    If you have a squeaky floor, try using some construction glue. And it takes quite a bit of sweaty work in the crawl space or the basement; however, the end result justifies the means. Secure each subfloor plank to joists with a thin line of glue; use a caulking gun for added precision.

    When doing any home improvement project, it is important to use the correct tools. Using proper tools makes it easy to do the job right the first time without unnecessary effort. Knowing how to use those tools is just as important as having the right tools.

    Adding a second bathroom to your home can significantly increase the worth of your house. All things considered, two bathrooms come in very handy for occupants, particularly if there is one upstairs and one downstairs. It is very likely that multiple household members will need access to the bathroom simultaneously.

    TIP! If you want your ceiling to look like it is higher, you can use these two very easy tricks. Try painting stripes on the wall or you can just add a taller floor lamp.

    Safety has to be first. There is always an element of danger when working with power tools so make sure you are fully aware of what you are doing. Search for an online tutorial to learn how to use these tools.

    Before you attempt to make a major repair, get professional advice. A professional can give you information that could save you hundreds or thousands fixing an improper repair job. You can make a huge mistake if you don’t talk with a professional.

    The lighting inside a room makes a big difference in how it looks. The brighter the room the more welcoming. Adding a secondary light fixture will help brighten up a room. Just changing the lighting in a room can give it a fresh new look and open it up.

    TIP! New floors can update your home. Good and reputable flooring companies can do wonders for your floor.

    You can spend a lot of time and money on home improvements. If you know both the disadvantages and advantages of home improvement projects, then you can save yourself much money. You can make your home improvement project a real investment and avoid lots of potential problems by applying the tips shared here.


  21. Ohio Heroes Program for Home Buyers

    August 14, 2019 by Thomas Herr

    One of the most popular programs of the Ohio Housing Finance Agency is the Ohio Heroes Program which is exclusively intended for the active military, active reservists, veterans, firefighters, emergency medical technicians, paramedics, and several other groups with critical professions.

    This post is part of a network of sites interested with the intersection of small business, the philanthropic sector and government in creating healthy and sustainable communities.

    Find additional information and resources on small business grants and loans, home buyer programs and Community Foundation programs from around the world.


  22. Introduction to the Small Business Administration

    August 13, 2019 by Thomas Herr

    If you’re looking for a way to help your business grow, now would be a good time to understand how the government can help you with your small business needs.

    This post is part of a network of sites interested with the intersection of small business, the philanthropic sector and government in creating healthy and sustainable communities.

    Find additional information and resources on small business grants and loans, home buyer programs and Community Foundation programs from around the world.


  23. Getting The Most From Your Next Home Improvement Project

    August 12, 2019 by Thomas Herr

    For those with mechanical skills, home improvement is more than an enjoyable pastime. Repairing projects or fixing your house can have a lot of benefits beyond just looking nicer. They will also increase your home’s value. This article provides some tips on how to maximize your next improvement project.

    During the summer, you need to utilize lots of fans. Ceiling fans can be particularly great at cooling down a room because they improve a room’s circulation. Using floor fans and ceiling fans will also help to lessen the energy you utilize, as you won’t need to run the air conditioner as hard. This will help you to save money.

    TIP! Lampshades with simple designs give no life to the room. Using acrylic paint and stencils, you can add great designs to your lampshades.

    Use common sense when deciding what home improvement projects are right for you. Examples of nonsensical improvements include non-insulated sun rooms in Michigan, and uncovered decks in Arizona; basically anything that causes potential buyers to think about whether you have made other odd choices while maintaining the house. Build what you want to, but try not to go beyond what will be useful in your climate.

    Solar panel additions can be a great home improvement project. The initial outlay can be a little expensive, but over the long term this could be a very worthwhile investment. This reduces your utility bills thanks to stored energy. This all-natural solution for energy in your home is amazing.

    Even a beginner can and should tackle the repair of a leaky faucet. If you can repair and fix these quickly, you can conserve water and not waste money. This project can save you a bit of money off your next water bill.

    TIP! Organize your garage by buying some clear plastic boxes and arranging items according to type and how often you use them. Even though the bins are transparent, it’s important to properly label them, too.

    The next time you complete a project around the home, dedicate one specific space for debris and waste. Removing the materials can be costly, so planning ahead is a great way to realize substantial savings and keep the project moving.

    Use your old luggage rack to make a unique side table. Use glass from a frame to adhere your rack effectively. Use this new side table to display a lamp and a stack of books.

    When planning home improvement projects, don’t forget about your front porch. It is what is first seen by someone visiting your home. It will set the initial impression they have for your home. Keep this area clutter-free and enhance its look with flowers or patio furniture. These things add value to a house.

    TIP! Before investing in new hardwood floors, bring in a professional to inspect the current flooring in your home. Sometimes, people find that they have hardwood under their linoleum or carpet that just needs to be refinished.

    The tips you read here are just a small sample of what can be done to improve a person’s home. Continue to explore all of the creative and interesting improvements you can make to your home. Your home improvement project will be more successful if you do your homework first. Before you tackle your next project, learn all you can.


  24. Grants From The National Science Foundation

    August 12, 2019 by Thomas Herr

    The National Science Foundation provides financial assistance to more than 2,000 colleges, universities, K-12 school systems, businesses, informal science organizations and other research organizations throughout the United States.

    This post is part of a network of sites interested with the intersection of small business, the philanthropic sector and government in creating healthy and sustainable communities.

    Find additional information and resources on small business grants and loans, home buyer programs and Community Foundation programs from around the world.


  25. More On Home Improvement Than You Can Find Anywhere Else!

    August 10, 2019 by Thomas Herr

    When it comes to adding value to your home, home improvement is key. What’s more, a certain amount of home improvement is necessary simply to meet your home’s maintenance needs. There are many projects you can take on in order to enhance your home and its surroundings. Some will be harder than others. Read the following tips for excellent tips.

    It is very crucial to replace the air filters. It is not only healthier for your family, it will make your heater and air conditioner last longer. Most of the time these units have issues because the filters need to be replaced.

    TIP! Look out for carpet sales at big carpet outlets. Many places will offer free basic installation or discounted installation at certain times of the year.

    You can make your ceilings appear higher by following two simple tips. You could paint vertical stripes on a wall or just put a big floor lamp in the room. You’ll notice your eye moves upwards. This can even make your room appear bigger and more spacious than it really is.

    Ensure you dust all of your home once a week. Dust bunnies can start creeping up after a few days, and that encourages allergens to interfere with your life. Proper dusting will make your house cleaner, fresher and repel pests such as spiders and insects.

    To minimize the “peek-through” of walls behind paneling, paint stripes on the walls prior to putting up paneling. Regardless of your skill, it seems inevitable that some of the old wall will show through. To cut down on that, measure where the panels are going to meet. Paint strips of the wall with a paint color that will better match the color of the paneling.

    TIP! If you want to find a simple and easy way to improve your home, visit a paint store and buy some paint. It makes for an amazing visual change.

    When you are doing improvements, keep these things in mind. Define for yourself why you chose this project and what it will do to improve your overall quality of life. Above all, ensure that you are fully committed to the project in terms of your time, work and money.


  26. Make Money With Home Improvement Efforts

    August 8, 2019 by Thomas Herr

    Sometimes, the home improvements that need doing can seem too overwhelming for some people to handle. However, if you can keep an open mind, home improvement can be simple. As the following article will show you, there are many ways to make home improvement projects less expensive, less stressful, and less difficult.

    Be certain your air conditioner’s filters is kept clean. If the filter gets clogged up, the air conditioning unit will have to work harder to cool your house, using up more energy. Additionally, it may cause the AC to run for extended and unnecessary periods of time. You need to change the filter once a month.

    A great tip for home improvement is to personalize any project you undertake. Including your own personal touch can make any project special.

    Aluminum tape is a great way to patch cracks along your roof. Place the sticky part of the tape on a surface that is clear of debris. This creates a waterproof barrier over these cracks.

    Prior to beginning any customizations on your home, find the style that you truly like. Knowing what your style of decor truly is will have a big impact on all of the details you select. If you don’t, you may find that you change styles mid-project without realizing it. Fixing mistakes is always more costly than doing things correctly the first time.

    TIP! If you are considering major remodeling, engage a professional to design the work or draw up the plans. Plans created on your own or through friends may be pretty, but not functional with your current home.

    When planning to make changes to the exterior of your home, you should make considerations for the overall look and feel of the neighborhood and surrounding homes. Make sure your home coordinates well with the others on the block. Remodeling that goes with your neighborhood will help you sell your home.

    Under no circumstances should you permit a contractor to start work on your house if there is no agreed upon and signed contract. If you have the time and the funds available, have the contract legally reviewed. You want to ensure that all terms are clearly defined in the contact, such as warranty facts, specifics of the work expected, cost and project dates.

    Floor Joists

    TIP! Use a porch light with motion sensors to illuminate your yard while saving costs on your electric bill. These types of lights can be manually turned on and the sensitivity can also be adjusted.

    Building materials can easily be stored between floor joists or ceiling rafters. You can easily store two by fours or pieces of molding in these spaces. Nail some furring strips to two exposed rafters or floor joists, and place the material in there.

    As you have now learned from this article, home improvement projects do not always have to involve stress and anxiety. As you make these improvements, you need to keep an open mind. This article is manufactured to provide you with the tips to make your home the most improved. By using these tips, you can update your home quickly!


  27. Use These Solid Instructions To Maximize The Value Of Your Home

    August 6, 2019 by Thomas Herr

    By acquiring the right knowledge and tools, you can tackle any home improvement projects that you can dream up. The information below is loaded with great tips and ideas on how you can get the most out of any home improvement project. Carefully study the information in this article to turn your home improvement dreams into a reality.

    Wet Sponge

    TIP! Have you tried everything to fix your squeaky door? If so, then you might need another door hinge. Your local hardware store will carry what you need.

    Use a wet sponge on your drywall installation. Instead of sanding out your drywall’s seams, take a sponge to them. Using a wet sponge can do as good of a job as sanding can. Sponging can be better because it doesn’t make the area as dusty while you do it.

    Before starting a job, decide what you will do beforehand. Developing a plan is a very important part of finishing your project on time and under budget. If you make changes during the project, you can increase the price and the time. The contractors you hire will be much more satisfied if you have a plan before starting construction and you don’t deviate from that plan.

    Remember to always keep safety foremost in your mind as you complete home improvement projects. There is a level of risk in any project that you work on, so make sure to read the instructions on power tools and ask for help from store associates if you need it. You can turn to online tutorials, if need be, for further information.

    TIP! If your wall has small holes from hanging pictures or paintings, use paint and spackle to make the walls look new. Spackle can be purchased at your local home-improvement store.

    If you seal any openings and cracks in your home, you will be able to keep vermin out and heat and cool in. Apply caulk around windows and base boards. Once the caulk is dry, bugs have a much more difficult time getting inside, and the air doesn’t escape as easy.

    Always check references if want to hire anyone to help with your home improvement projects. It’s just like hiring for a company. Check into their background to find out whether others have enjoyed their work.

    If you are in need of a screen for your window, consider making your own. A simple frame kit can be customized to fit any sized window, and all you have to do is attach a screen to it. Some windows may require a particular screen, but an external screen can be added to nearly any window with the use of adapters.

    TIP! If you’re purchasing new furniture, it’s best to avoid pieces that have busy upholstery. Your whole home gets decorated around that busy pattern.

    Because you are now armed with some excellent home renovation tips in the above article, you should now start gathering all the tools that you’ll need in order to begin. If you see that it’s getting tough during some parts of your home improvement project, go back over the information you read here to see if there was anything you may have forgotten about that can help you successfully complete the project.


  28. Bolster The Aesthetic Beauty Of Your Home With These Tips

    August 4, 2019 by Thomas Herr

    Home improvement projects are all around your house and aren’t limited to new floors or fresh paint. If you really want to improve the look and value of your home, you have to carefully plan your home improvement projects. The tips in this article will help you to develop exceptional home improvement abilities. It is a great way to save money and get your dream home built.

    Keep your AC unit running great by cleaning your filter. If it isn’t clean, it will use more energy to clean the house. The unit might also end up running much longer than it ought to. Change out your filters monthly to avoid buildup.

    TIP! Add elegance to your home with a unique addition. For example, a wall-to-wall library or wine cellar.

    Roofs can get little leaks in them at any time, so using some 3 inch aluminum tape can help you to patch them up quickly and very effectively. Separate its paper backing and place the sticky tape on a clean surface. The aluminum provides a long-lasting, waterproof seal that will surely hold up for years with any type of small hole or crack.

    Just because a room is lacking in square footage doesn’t mean it has to seem cramped or confined. Get more light into the room! Make sure to keep your windows clean and your blinds open. Rooms appear much larger and more open with good natural lighting. Try to use colors that are pale and reduce any mess in the rooms. Follow these steps and your little room will seem much bigger.

    Do not forget that you need to have proper ventalation in your bathroom. Hot water and humidity can cause dangerous mold to grow. Painting your walls repeatedly will not get rid of mold. The correct answer is to prevent the problem from starting. Try getting a new window in your bathroom or improving the ventilation of this room so that your bathroom is less humid.

    TIP! Rather than replacing your kitchen cabinets, what about refinishing them? Repaint the cabinet base and replace the doors and fixtures to get an updated new look. This is an inexpensive task that can be done in a weekend, and it will give your home a fresh, new feel.

    Nobody should ever even consider hiring a contractor for home improvement jobs who is not licensed by a certified board or body. States require certification for both contractors and sub-contractors. The certification doesn’t guarantee satisfaction, but they are an added assurance. Also, contractors who do not have the necessary licenses probably also do not have sufficient insurance coverage.

    If you are going to be making improvements using bricks, buy extra bricks. When you are going to be adding to brick work, it can be hard to match the color. Brick styles are always changing. Storing a surplus amount of original bricks will pay off in the future.

    Paint the walls for an updated room or house look. The overall look of any room can change with a new coat of paint. Painting is fairly inexpensive compared to the value it adds to your home. Complement the decor of the home with light colors and neutral shades.

    TIP! You can decrease energy costs and still have a well-lit exterior by switching out your always-on lighting system for one that is motion-activated. It is still possible to turn the light on manually, and the sensitivity is adjustable.

    Anyone can take on some home improvement projects. If you’re inexperienced, start slow and then you will eventually become faster and more skilled at it. If you are serious and determined, then pay close attention to what you are doing and you should feel proud of all that you accomplish.


  29. SBA Resources for Women-Owned Businesses

    August 4, 2019 by Thomas Herr

    The Small Business Administration has a variety of offerings to assist woman entrepreneurs start and grow and their business endeavors. This latest video provides an in introduction to how the SBA can help you.

    This post is aligned with a network of sites interested with the intersection of small business, the philanthropic sector and government in creating healthy and sustainable communities.

    Find additional information and resources on small business grants and loans, home buyer programs and impact investment programs from around the world.


  30. Got The Home Owner Blues? Jazz Up Your Home With These Home Improvement Suggestions!

    August 2, 2019 by Thomas Herr

    If you are unsure of how to make home improvements, this is the place for you. This article is filled with helpful tips you can use to plan efficient home improvement projects. Follow the information presented here to make meaningful, successful improvements to your home.

    A crazy addition will add some pizazz to your house. Consider installing built-in shelving in your library or a wine cellar inside your basement. These impressive additions will not only please you, but they will substantially increase the value of your home.

    TIP! Consider using light colored tile or shingles if you are redoing your roof. Light colors reflect sunlight, as opposed to dark colors which absorb them.

    Never let a contractor start work without having a signed contract. If it’s possible, have a lawyer review the contract. Start and end dates, work to be done and warranty information must be stated in the contract.

    Consider using radiant heat tiles when redoing any tile floors. These tiles give heat by using electricity and can be very breathtaking. These can even be a do-it-yourself project, providing you are able to read and follow directions. Its a good upgrade to your project regardless of whether or not you have a contractor. You’ll thank yourself the first time you step inside your bathroom on a cold winter day.

    Ask family and friends for help with your home improvement project. If you do not ask before the project begins, you may find it difficult to get the help that you need. You may also have trouble finishing your project on time, adding extra stress to your work.

    TIP! You have to replace filters when necessary. It will keep the air in your home healthier, and it’s good for your air conditioning system.

    An easy way to protect walls and floors from marks, and to protect your young children while you’re at it, is to pad furniture with sharp edges. There are prefabricated corner covers available for purchase; however, foam tape can also achieve the desired effect. As well, loose wiring should always be secured or put out of reach of curious children to prevent electrical or strangling accidents.

    A homeowner should always hire a licensed contractor to do any home improvement work. All states require for general and sub-contractors to have a type of certification. These certifications don’t vouch for how skilled the contractor is. They are, however, required legally. More importantly, a person who doesn’t have a proper license probably doesn’t have the right insurance, and they can be risky to do any work with.

    Building Materials

    TIP! Do not allow contractors to start the work prior to signing a contract. If you have the time and the funds available, have the contract legally reviewed.

    Try to make room in your budget for natural building materials. Genuine building materials such as stone, wood or ceramic are nearly always superior to the synthetic versions. They are not only visually pleasing, they also provide durability that can’t be beat. You may have to shell out more money at the inception, but natural materials will save you money over time, because they don’t need to be replaced as often.

    Now that you’ve finished reading this article, odds are you have more ideas about what you can do that will improve your property. Now that this knowledge is something you know, you can start to create strategies on how you can make your home look better. Once done, you’ll be ready to tackle any project.