Workshop Essentials – What Every DIYer Needs

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Sometimes people get to the extent of hiring services that they can actually perform at their own workshops. The problem is often the inability to trust that you can do what other people have done or are doing. The tools you set up in your workshop will largely depend on a number of things such as your specialty area, your level of experience and probably your interests. The following are some of the most essential tools for DIYers.

Hammers

This is a very important tool to have in your workshop. Hammers come in different styles depending on their use. They also come in different weights based on the specific job that they are intended for. Some of the commonly used hammers include standard nailing hammers and the tack hammers. However, there are customized hammers that incorporate a section that holds nails for easier hammering.

Measuring Tapes

Measuring tapes also come in different lengths ranging from 12, 18, 25 or even 33 feet. It is important to note that the longer your tape the easier it will be to use. If you are a serious builder or craftsman you will probably go for a 33-foot tape.

Besides, you will also realize that some tapes measures are indicated using eights of an inch which even makes calculation simpler. Apart from the 33-foot tape, there are also special measuring tapes that come in 100 feet length and more. We also have a speed square which is used in marking and measuring angles in construction. Lastly, we have levels that also come in different lengths and sizes.

Screwdrivers

There is no workshop or toolbox that can miss both flat-head and Philips head screwdrivers. All the screwdrivers come in different sizes. Nonetheless, you can have other varieties of screwdrivers such as Torx and hex head. This will also depend on the time of work that you are usually engaged in your workshop. The best thing to have is a six-in-one handy household that comprises a screwdriver together with other interchangeable attachments.

Wrenches

This is also one of the most essential tools for DIYers. An adjustable wrench is very vital not only in your workshop but also in the house. It can help you to tighten or loosen furniture or other appliances that can easily be assembled and dismantled. Open-end wrenches are available in different sizes on an increasing basis. On the other hand, Box wrenches come in only in one size and are closed in both sides.

Saws

The following are the most common saws used in workshops. It is important that you have a variety of them in your workshop.

• Compass saw

• Large and small cross-cut saw

• Keyhole saw

• Coping saw

Cutting tools

As a DIYer, you must not to forget to include hand-tool for cutting sheet metals as well as other similar materials in your workshop. They include the following:-

• Utility knife

• Scissors

• Flat-cutting aviation snips

• Straight-cutting aviation snips

• Right-cutting aviation snips and

• Left-cutting aviation snips

In general, it is important to equip your workshop with all the necessary equipment in order to make your work easier. In case you are not familiar with how some tools are used, you can use the manual or ask for help from an expert.

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Why Open Concept Home Design is So Hot Right Now

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To begin, an open concept is a house that has common spaces; is a house that has no walls or partial walls between them. Basically an open concept allows a larger traffic flow and offers a sense of openness from one room to another.

Examples of open concepts are a kitchen and dining room that share a common space. Or, another example is a dining room/living room area. They both occupy one area. To visually divide the rooms you might see a short set of stairs, two different paint colors or a handrail.

There are a variety of benefits of open concept rooms; however, the most desired aspect of open concept rooms is minimal walls that separate spaces. In other words, you can visually see all rooms without the division of walls.

Open concepts create areas that are warm, inviting, wonderful for entertaining and comfortable. Another benefit is that you can enjoy more natural light in open concept rooms. If you add large windows or large glass doors that lead outside, you add more depth and light into the rooms.

Keep in mind; an open concept brings people together. This kind of setup fosters family togetherness. It is important to note; open concept areas also provide you, the homeowner, various ways to customize your home. For example, you can expand your living room if you want to. Or, you can arrange the furniture and design the lighting to show individuality to the rooms, giving the look of different rooms without the division of walls.

Most importantly, if you have children or elderly parents living in your home, you want them to be safe. Keep in mind; an open concept gives you clear vision throughout the rooms, making it easier to watch little ones or those who struggle with movement.

Also, with an open concept you can improve the energy efficiency of your home. In most cases, you will see a difference in your energy bills. The reason for this is because an open concept is easier to heat and cool. This makes it more energy efficient.

Most importantly, there are pros and cons to open concept living. One pro is that it works well when entertaining and you can keep a close eye on children and seniors.

As with most living conditions, there are cons with open concept such as if there is a mess, your entire home will look and feel messy.

There is little you can do to hide messes when they can be seen from almost every angle. In addition, too many colors in an open concept can make it look uneven and small. By using the same color scheme, an open space flows evenly and well.

To conclude, an open concept is when a house that has common spaces has no walls or partial walls between them. Basically an open concept allows a larger traffic flow and offers a sense of openness from one room to another. Visit your local home improvement store and find out more!

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Designing a Room To Entertain Your Guests

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It’s the time of the year that corresponds to a number of holidays and you would like to design a special room to entertain your guests. Of course, it is important to provide a warm and inviting entertainment area for your guests. However, there is much more involved. There are several factors that are involved with designing a room to entertain your guests through the year. Certainly, a theme is important. Also, a comfortable room, sitting areas, lighting, furniture, food, music, guests are required to really get the entertainment mood started.

Clear The Mess

Remember, the idea is to provide a very welcoming and comfortable entertainment area. Therefore, it is a good idea to get rid of all the clutter in the room. Items like kids toys, shoes, pet chews, books, magazines are all clutter. Give the room a thorough cleaning a few days before the party. Also, call in the professionals to clean your rugs and drapes, for a really fresh look.

Provide The Right Mood Light

It’s vital to get the party mood started right by providing the entertainment area with just the right quality of light. If the lighting is too dark or too light, it will place the guest in an uncomfortable situation. Get started by providing just the right amount of light for guest to see each other and the room comfortably. Certainly, you don’t want guests in a dark room, bumping into each other or the furniture. Place lamps around the room at various heights along with dim mood lights on the ceiling or in corners.

Seating Is Important

The best designed entertainment rooms provide seating that makes it easy for the guests to have a conversation with other guests without straining or turning their seats in awkward positions. Take the time to rearrange the furniture to make it easier for people to talk or move around the room comfortably. Move chairs or seating around to provide several conversation areas. If the party is very casual, toss a few over-sized decorative pillows on the floor for guests to relax and talk.

Party Decorations

A lot of people assume that they will have to spend a great deal of money on party decorations. The key to decorating success is keeping it simple and basic. Remember, less is always more appealing. Simply add a bouquet of fresh flowers to a main centerpiece or table in the room. Select a bouquet with a delightful fragrance. Add scented candles in different heights that are placed in gold or silver candle holders about the room. Those additions give the entertainment room a light, breezy, and party atmosphere.

Mini Bar

Of course, food and drinks are very important. Set up a mini bar with snacks in the corner of the room. The bar setup does not have to be fancy. Simply a place to mix drinks for the guest. A small corner table or mini bar is appropriate for a casual situation.

Designing a room to entertain your guests is a simple process. Just make sure that a comfortable space is provided along with the right lighting, seating, decorations, and food. Use the ideas provided here to design a room to fit your party mood casual to formal.

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