Japanese Knotweed

How to Give Your Bathroom a Deep Clean in 15-minute Segments

Bathrooms can be a haven of relaxation, however if mildew is growing, counters are overflowing, and hair and dust balls line the floor, the idea of lingering in this room is not appealing. Even if the idea of a clean bathroom is appealing, the idea of a three or four-hour cleaning regiment might not be the motivation needed to complete the bathroom’s spring clean. Instead of trying to complete the cleaning project in one day, spread the chore over several days in 15-minute segments. Daily Bathroom Cleaning Schedule The first day Clean out any drawers, cabinets, or closets in the bathroom area. Usually items are found that are unnecessary, outdated, or no longer used. Throw away or recycle any material, products, or linens that fit one of these categories. The second day Take items off of the countertop and decide what should be kept, thrown out, or recycled. Try to store most items in the drawers, cabinets, or closet in order to eliminate the clutter. If it is too ...

Landscape Ideas to Save Energy

One should be aware that plants properly placed in our landscapes can save both energy and dollars. As you plan your landscape or add to an existing landscape, consider locating plants where they will save energy and money. Windbreaks have long been used on farms to help divert wind and control conditions. Even in the home landscape, a small planting to divert the wind can be beneficial. Evergreen plants placed to the north or northwest of a home to break the prevailing wind can reduce heat loss and fuel consumption. Where adequate space is available, several rows of trees may be used. However, in a limited area only a few are still helpful, although less effective. Where adequate space is available, the ends of a windbreak should extend 50 feet to each side of the area to be protected. A windbreak is effective for eight times its height, so even before the plants become as high as your house they will provide beneficial effects. Pines can be used for windbreaks, but because they ten...

How to Create a Verdigris Faux Finish

Copper takes on a wonderful patina after time, turning its shiny metallic finish into an aged rough surface with years of depth and a plethora of green hues. Learn to create a faux finish verdigris effect and suddenly inexpensive everyday items are transformed into valuable heirlooms, or at least they look like heirlooms. Steps to painting a verigris faux finish Verdigris Faux Finish Preparation Before beginning the verdigris faux finishing process every item will need a little preparation. Cleaning – The item that will receive a verdigris faux finish needs to be cleaned thoroughly to remove any dirt or grease build up. If the object is metal a light sanding with a fine sandpaper may help paint adhere. Primer – A primer isn’t always necessary but it may be if the original item is too dark or a surface that is difficult for paint to adhere to. If the object is plastic then a primer designed for plastic is necessary. Use personal discretion to determine if a primer is called for...

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