Fireplaces» Interior Design

Ways To Correctly Install Tiles

Sat, 06 Feb 2010 09:17:40 +0000

It is easy to upgrade the look of a house by installing floor tiles. Floor tiles come in different colors, designs and sizes. Aside from being inexpensive and durable, tiles can also be easily installed. This article will assist you step by step on how to install your floor tiles. You just need diligence and a set time to go about your project.

First off, you need to ready your floor. Do away with current baseboards and coverings. It is important that the floor is absolutely level. Make sure the surface has been cleaned.

If there is a need to stabilize the floor before laying new tiles, then do it. Put in nails in the following: subfloor,sister floor joists and underneath, afterwards put in bridging between joists. Once the floor is stabilized you can utilize glue and galvanized nails to install cement boards. afterwards remove all trash and dirt.

The next thing you should do is to do some layout. Make sure to meticulously appraise the room. Divide the whole area in square feet using strings or chalk line. Shape the tiles to fit as needed. Make sure that you have appraised the tile correctly before cutting. You can rent wet saw or tile cutter on any local rental stores.

Last, but not the least, spread on tile adhesive to your floor. Use a notched trowel to spread the thinset which is a cement like a powder that you can mix. Smear adhesive and then put on the floor tiles after a few minutes. Duplicate steps until the whole floor area is finished. Put tile spacers between the tiles. Ensure all tiles lay flat. For twenty-four hours leave the tiles to harden into the adhesive. Then, remove the tile spaces and mix the grout based on the manufacturer’s directions. Apply grout after removing tile spacers. Rubber float is then used to spread the grout in between tiles. Utilize wet sponge to clean overrun grout on tile surfaces.

After installation, do proper maintenance and cleaning for you r tile to continue looking great. Regular maintenance and cleaning should be observed religiously. Routine cleaning is a must. Regular waxing of tiles will give you a shiny and bright floor.

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Jamb: Antique Chimneypieces UK – Reproduction Fireplaces – Fire Grates – Fire Accessories

admin — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 08:17:34 +0000

Jamb, well-know fireplace dealer supplying quality antique fireplaces and reproduction fireplaces. For a long time we have selling unparalleled collection of reproductions such asmarble chimneypieces and stone chimneypieces, fire grates, antique lighting, garden ornaments, antique furniture and reproduction antique furniture.

All our fireplaces at our fireplace shop are made by good skilled craftsmen who use traditional 18th and 19th century techniques. Our wide range of reproduction himneypieces includes marble chimneypieces, stone chimneypieces, Georgian chimneypieces, Regency chimneypieces and Antique Chimneypieces.

We have wide range of finely carved marble chimneypieces and marble fireplaces which are made with great attention paid to historical detail. The greatest names associated with architectural and chimneypiece designs from the 17th, 18th and 19th Centuries have influenced our collection, including Sir John Soane, Sir James Wyatt and Robert Adam. We also hold excellent stock of stone chimneypieces made by using stone from the oldest English quarries. Several of these quarries were established by the Romans, including Bath, Portland and Ancaster. These rich, natural stones have been carefully caved and worked to produce fine stone fireplaces in our collection. Our collection of stone chimneypieces and stone fireplaces is influenced by the timeless style of designers and architects such as Batty Langley, Inigo Jones, Sir Edwin Lutyens and Sir John Vanbrugh.

We also offer finest stock ofantique chimneypieces which is backbone of our business. In our collection of antique fireplaces, we provide 17th century antique chimneypieces, 18th century antique chimneypieces and 19th century antique chimneypieces. All these antique fireplaces reflects architectural design and workmanship of important figures in the field such as Sir Henry Cheere, John Nash and Sir John Soane.

Then we also stock beautiful fire grates, fire accessories, fire surrounds, fire mantels, fireplace surrounds, fireplace accessories, fireplace grates in brass and silver, antique fireplace mantels and mantelpiece.

Apart from reproduction fireplaces and reproduction chimneypieces, we also supply lanterns, antique lanterns, reproduction lanterns, garden ornaments, antique garden ornaments, antique furniture and reproduction furniture.

We also offer a bespoke service as well as advice to architects, designers and interior decorators. We accept individual orders as well also provide& practical advice from our own expert draughtsman, planners and technicians at reasonable cost or commission. .

Contact us online or by visiting ourreproduction fireplace shop located in Pimlico, London, UK. One of biggest well-known unique reproductionChimneypieceshopproviding marble fireplaces, stone fireplaces, regency fireplaces,Georgian fireplace and antique fireplaces.

website :- http://www.jamblimited.com

By: Rini Brown

About the Author:

Rini Brown

Fireplaces – Gateways to the Soul

admin — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 23:23:36 +0000

Fireplaces feature in cosy Christmas cards depicting idyllic family scenes; fireplaces tap into childhood memories. The magic and impact a real fire has on a room is undeniable. Whether it’s a gas or real fire, a fireplace offers a central hub in a room to sit, talk, or reflect. The connection to fire is deep in our DNA. Fire was crucial to how we evolved – where we cooked, kept warm and where we gathered to tell stories. It’s no wonder many people consider their fireplaces to be gateways to the soul.

Fireplaces – A Sense of Home

Fireplaces are the central defining point of a room. It’s no wonder that interior designers can feel so passionate about the kind of fireplaces they choose – whether it’s a replica of traditional designs or a modern contemporary classic, the fireplace dictates the mood of a home. Hand-carved marble or limestone ooze a natural, exquisite quality, ensuring the fireplace will endure generations to come. The pleasure in a real fire lies in the flicker and scent of burning coal or wood, the cracking and glowing on a cold winter’s night. Those who love a real fire long for fireplaces in their homes. And after the trend to board-up fireplaces, now thousands of people are embracing the joy of real fires and opening up their chimneys. Whether it’s a fireplace in the living room as a focus for the family, or romantic fireplaces in the bedroom, there’s no doubt a fireplace adds charm and character, turning any house into a home.

Fireplaces Tap into Psychological Needs

If our fireplaces are gateways to the soul, psychologists say our homes are windows to the mind. Open plan living may look stylish, but sacrificing doors can impact on those who value privacy, or who have a need to slam doors to diffuse a moment of anger. Having curtain-less windows has a similar impact. Our love of fireplaces, as a cosy spot of seclusion, taps into an instinct anthropologists say is ‘primal’.

Fireplaces: The Fundamentals of Home

The move to think of houses as assets and investments, rather than homes, means many properties are no longer designed with our psychological need for a sense of ‘home’. But more homeowners are realising the importance of fireplaces, warm curtains and traditional homes. Homes have always been about providing shelter, safety, privacy, and a fireplace for warmth and cooking. Johnny Grey, a researcher into how our psychological needs are met in housing told the Guardian newspaper: “People may ask what neuroscience has to do with house design, but we have an emotional connection – linked to the brain – of what it is to ‘feel at home’. When we are happy, a certain endorphin is released, so we need to design homes in order to release that neurotransmitter.”

Grey added that fireplaces make us ‘ridiculously happy’ – our fireplaces symbolise warmth, sociability and food – the fundamentals of home.

By: Mike MJ Johnson

About the Author:

Mike Johnson, managing director of Aztec Fireplaces Limited – trading as English Fireplaces – is an experienced businessman and entrepreneur. He bought English Fireplaces in December 2006 determined to establish a high quality service focussed competitor to the brand leaders in the fireplace industry.

English Fireplaces, Unit 6, The Brows Industrial Estate, Liss, Hampshire, GU33 6JG
Telephone: 01730 890218 English Fireplaces

Fireplaces – Important Considerations for Louis Style French Fireplaces

admin — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 07:38:37 +0000

There are few better ways to introduce a sense of grandeur into a room than with well designed and carefully chosen Louis style French Fireplaces. Louis Style French fireplaces are visually striking and expertly crafted.

Louis style French fireplaces are imposing and striking installations that really do bring a room to life and it is possible to completely rejuvenate the look and feel of a room with carefully chosen Louis style French fireplace. There are a number of key elements to take into consideration when it comes to choosing fireplaces and with so many fantastic designs, styles and materials on the market, it really is possible to find a fireplace that meets all your needs in terms of look and functionality.

Obviously, when choosing a Louis style French fireplace, the most crucial decisive factor is that of personal preference and your choice should reflect your own tastes and dovetail successfully with the style of home in which you live. For example, if you live in a period Victorian property, your choice of fireplace should be of a design and style which takes this into account. Fireplaces are crafted in many different materials but one of the most popular is unquestionably that of Louis style French fireplaces.

Fireplaces – Making the Right Choice

Choosing fireplaces isn’t something that should be taken lightly because fireplaces last for many years and it is important to get the decision right first time. When it comes to picking Louis style French fireplace it helps to know what you are looking for and some of the main considerations include:

Design – Of course, you will need to choose a design that suits your needs and fits in well with the overall surroundings in which the fireplace is to be installed. You will find plenty of choice of designs when it comes to Louis style French fireplaces and you are sure to find a fireplace that you are happy with.

Materials – As mentioned, fireplaces come in a multitude of different materials and can be crafted from stone, metal or any material which is fire resistant. Louis style French fireplaces are generally crafted from stone and look great in many different types of home.

Size – The size of Louis style French fireplaces should be reflected by the size of the room in which it is installed. There is nothing worse than putting a highly intricate and large fireplace in a small room that simply cannot accommodate it effectively. Speaking to experts providers of fireplaces is the best way to establish what is the best type of fireplace for your needs.

By: Mike MJ Johnson

About the Author:

English Fireplaces, Unit 6, The Brows Industrial Estate, Liss, Hampshire, GU33 6JG
Telephone: 01730 890218 English Fireplaces

Fireplaces – the Focus of Your Room

admin — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 22:16:09 +0000

For many people, fireplaces provide the ultimate focus to a room. Whether your fire is a working “real” fire, or has been replaced by gas or electricity, the fire surround, hearth and mantelpiece are still central features. Fireplaces may have moved from being important because they were the only source of heat in a room to having a more cosmetic function, but that doesn’t mean you can’t give your room some real appeal by choosing a beautiful fireplace.

Fireplaces – Your Style

Of course, we all have different ideas of what constitutes a beautiful fireplace, and consequently, there’s a huge choice of fireplaces in the market. The fireplace you choose will depend on your budget, the size of your room and your taste. Fortunately, you can find just about anything you want when you know where to look, and if you can’t find something that’s exactly what you’d like, why not get a fireplace made to order?

Fireplaces – Ornate to Minimalist

After a period where people stripped their homes of period features, many homeowners are now renovating their homes, restoring original items wherever possible and re-instating elements that may have been removed. Fireplaces that reflect the period of the property are highly desirable, and it’s perfectly possible to have a period-style fireplace and a contemporary décor. The sort of fireplaces you’re looking for will depend on the type of home you have – and the look you want to achieve. Whether you prefer stone, wood or marble, there are plenty of fireplaces to choose from, and plenty of advice available. The most important thing is that you choose one or more fireplaces for your home that really fit into the space you have. The width, height and depth of your fireplace is important to achieving the right look, which is why it’s always worth talking to experts in fireplaces for help and advice. Don’t forget that you also need to consider the style of hearth, basket or grate when you’re choosing fireplaces so that you achieve a consistent look and one that will become a real focus for your room.

Where to look for fireplaces?

If you’re thinking of buying one or more fireplaces for your home, look for a specialist fireplace supplier who has the experience to help you make the right choices without pushing you into a purchase or selling you something you don’t want.

By: Mike MJ Johnson

About the Author:

English Fireplaces, Unit 6, The Brows Industrial Estate, Liss, Hampshire, GU33 6JG
Telephone: 01730 890218 English Fireplaces

Fireplaces – the Art of Reflection

admin — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 17:48:31 +0000

Fireplaces during the long winter months provide a function beyond the practicality of providing warmth; staring into the flickering flames offers a rare chance to reflect and think. In today’s world, we are used to filling our rooms with noise and distraction. We don’t give ourselves the chance to sit and quietly reflect: fireplaces provide the right environment to do just that.

Fireplaces – Fight the Winter Blues

Increasingly, people are suffering from seasonal affective disorder (SAD) as the winter months last longer and longer. The dark, cold days can impact heavily on your mood as the days get shorter. Fireplaces are a great way to counteract SAD. Fireplaces make us feel cosy, comfortable and instinctively at peace. A fireplace, good friends and good food are enough to turn your home into a haven of comfort and pleasure during the long winter months. Warm and inviting fireplaces can transform a room into a welcoming retreat, to battle the worst of the winter chills. Fireplaces literally light up a room.

Fireplaces – The Advantages of Idleness

And a comfortable armchair in front of a fireplace is the perfect way to encourage the art of doing nothing. Tom Hodgkinson is an advocate of idleness – he has written a book on the art of being idle. Fireplaces are one way of introducing reflection into your life. Reflection and inner stillness can help us sift through our thoughts and troubles, think through life’s challenges, daydream, relax and generally create a sense of calm and clarity. And if you follow Hodgkinson’s advice, the perfect way to achieve a state of idleness is to go for a walk, followed by a comfortable chair by the fireplace. Walking, Hodgkinson says, creates harmony. We walk through our troubles alone, or generate the time and space for good conversations in company. After a long walk on a winter’s day, sitting by our fireplaces with a glass of wine or hot chocolate in hand is the perfect end to a day of reflection. And by shunning the fast-paced demands of modern life, Hodgkinson believes, is a powerful act of defiance against our over-worked culture.

Fireplaces give your mind space to ponder – watching the flames flicker induce reflection and thought. Whether you are pondering poetry, remembering a loved one, or just letting your thoughts drift, fireplaces can be good for the mind, body and soul.

By: Mike MJ Johnson

About the Author:

English Fireplaces, Unit 6, The Brows Industrial Estate, Liss, Hampshire, GU33 6JG
Telephone: 01730 890218 English Fireplaces

Is a Gas Ventless Fireplace Legal in Your City

admin — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 20:37:24 +0000

A gas ventless fireplace is an excellent alternative heat source, even though they are somewhat controversial. They are quite popular because they do not use a chimney, flue or any sort of external venting ducts. One of the benefits of not having all those extras is that they are less expensive to install. These fireplaces obviously do not use wood for fuel; they use propane or natural gas.

Before purchasing a gas ventless fireplace, determine what your exact needs are and where you want it installed. You will need a gas line running to the fireplace installed as well. Most people do not install them as a primary heat source; usually they are installed as a secondary source in a colder room. Each particular fireplace has a rating that indicates how much energy they consume and how much heat they provide. The heat is measured in BTU’s; this will also indicate how big or small the room should be for the fireplace to work, as it should. For example, you do not install a high performance unit in a small room.

A gas ventless fireplace vents out into the room. Therefore, it is important to be in a room large enough to support it. Regardless of whether it uses gas or wood a fire requires oxygen to create a flame. If it were completely ventless, it would automatically extinguish itself. Even though they have built in safety features, these types of fireplaces are banned in some states. The possibility that they can build up carbon monoxide and deplete oxygen levels is a major health concern. Before you purchase one of these fireplaces, you must consult your local laws to determine whether they are allowed or not.

Another concern associated with a gas ventless fireplace is that these appliances increase the humidity in the room. This can lead to mold or mildew forming in areas of the room.

In conclusion, make sure you are allowed by law to install a gas ventless fireplace before you purchase one. If you are able to get one installed, make sure you follow all the safety precautions associated with these units.

By: David Karlson

About the Author:

We provide information on all things related to fireplaces such as a fireplace heat exchanger, ventless fireplaces and fireplace rugs along with many other items concerning your fireplace.

Georgian Fireplaces – The Focal Point Of A Room

admin — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 00:42:56 +0000

Even to this day, the fireplace in a home can have an impact on someone when they walk into the room. It is no wonder then, that people are still intrigued by the 18th century styling of the Georgian era.

In any home, it is often the fireplace that is the focal point of a room, and there is no style more iconic and distinctive than the Georgian style.

Georgian fireplaces have always been in fashion; an elegant and classical architectural mould that never dates. As many look to buy period property which retains the original Georgian features, it is no surprise that this style still causes a stir amongst antique lovers. Typically made from wood and / or marble with sleek lines and intricate carving, Georgian fireplaces epitomise all that was rich, stylish and classic of the Georgian era.

Georgian Fireplaces – The Original and Best

As the focal point of the room still to this day, the humble fireplace is much more than just a decorative feature. It is to be admired, to be used to keep warm and even when the rest of the house could be stripped bare, the original fireplace will remain because it is such a stunning attribute to any home that people want to keep.

Georgian Fireplaces – The Neo Classical Style

As many people look to buy reproduction antique fireplaces, there are many different variations to choose from, and it all depends on what style of fireplace is right for your home. Many fireplaces have drawn inspiration from the Neo-Classical style, which is something that architect of the time Robert Adam introduced into the UK. The Neo-Classical style fireplaces have a very Greek influence and are typical of the Georgian era when tastes were changing and people wanted their homes, and indeed their furniture, to be much grander. With large, chunky columns as integral features of the fireplace surround, these Georgian fireplaces were created with stunning attention to detail. This really was the focal point of the room in the 18th century house, which was, traditionally, the dining room.

Georgian Fireplaces – The Palladian Style

The Palladian style is very reminiscent of the era. Italian architect Andrea Palladio inspired an architectural movement that resulted in buildings in 18th century England being dominated by his quality designs. Today, there are select reproduction Palladian style fireplaces available that look great in fine country houses and grand homes.

Georgian Fireplaces – Still Iconic

To this day, people in the UK are still fascinated and intrigued by the iconic 18th century and reproduction Georgian fireplaces are highly sought after by those looking to add a little bit of class to their home. Georgian fireplaces really are the focal point of any room.

By: Mike MJ Johnson

About the Author:

English Fireplaces, Unit 6, The Brows Industrial Estate, Liss, Hampshire, GU33 6JG
Telephone: 01730 890218 English Fireplaces

Fireplaces and Accessories

admin — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 07:07:13 +0000

Fireplaces look great with the addition of the right accessories.

Fireplaces are becoming increasingly popular as people return their homes to their former glory. Period properties are common in the UK and each period has its own style of fireplace. Using this style, you can add accessories that are designed to make fireplaces the heart of your room and of your home.

Fireplaces – working and ornamental

Whilst a working fireplace is the dream of many homeowners, it isn’t always possible, so fireplaces can often simply be ornamental. Whichever it is in your home, think about both the fireplaces and the accessories you need in order to get the look you require. When you’re choosing fireplaces, you need to consider:

Fire baskets – fireplaces look bare without a fire basket, and whether you have an electric, gas or solid fuel fire, you’ll want a fire basket that complements your design themes. For ornamental fireplaces, fire baskets can be filled with wood, candles or even flowers to create a centrepiece.

Fireplace tools – working fireplaces require maintenance, and you’ll need tools in order to keep your fire burning and to clean it out once it’s died down. You can easily find tool sets for fireplaces that will match the style of your surround, and which are practical as well as decorative.

Fireguards – fireplaces are attractive, but can be dangerous, especially for young children. Fireguards can both look decorative and serve a useful purpose – shielding the heat from curious hands and faces. There are many different types of fireguard on the market, so finding one that fits in with your fireplace design should be straightforward.

Mirrors – classic fireplaces often have mirrors hanging over the top of them. This helps to make your room feel better and is also a great addition to the centrepiece of your room. Try to find a mirror that fits with the style of your fireplace and your room. You can mix periods if you’re clever, creating a real focal point.

By: Mike MJ Johnson

About the Author:

English Fireplaces, Unit 6, The Brows Industrial Estate, Liss, Hampshire, GU33 6JG
Telephone: 01730 890218 English Fireplaces

Fireplaces – your starting point

admin — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 01:47:11 +0000

Use fireplaces as the starting point for redecoration.

If you’re planning on redecorating a room, you need to think about the fireplaces before anything else. It’s very difficult to insert a fireplace into a room that’s already been completed. Far better to decide on your fireplace first and then match your décor to it.

Fireplaces – the importance

You’ll already know that fireplaces are often the key point in any room. Large or small, a room is defined by the fireplace or fireplaces within it. From the way the furniture is organised to the mirrors, paintings and other objects you choose for the room, fireplaces are vitally important. Get the look of your fireplace wrong, and you could spoil the finished effect:

Proportion – fireplaces need to be in proportion to the room they are in. Look at pictures and talk to the experts to find out what size of fireplace will work best in the room you’re redecorating. Don’t be tempted to make the fireplace too big, as it can crowd everything out, but do make sure that it doesn’t get lost in the rest of your design because you’ve gone for something too minimalist. Design – if you want your fireplaces to reflect the period of your home, you’ll need to do a little research. Find out what sort of materials best reflect that period, and what sort of designs or patterns were used. This will help you to find the right kind of fireplace or to come up with a design so that you can have one made to order. Grates – fireplaces aren’t just about the surround, or mantelpiece. They’re also about the style and size of grate and fire basket. Again, take the time to discover what styles suit your home, and then look at grates and baskets at the same time that you’re looking for your surround. You’ll be able to see what works together and what doesn’t.

Once you know the design, size and materials of your fireplace, you’ll be able to plan the rest of your room. You might choose wallpaper or curtains that reflects the design or your surround, or you might choose light fittings that work with the decoration on the fire basket. Bringing all these influences together will help you to design a room that looks and feels like home.

By: Mike MJ Johnson

About the Author:

English Fireplaces, Unit 6, The Brows Industrial Estate, Liss, Hampshire, GU33 6JG
Telephone: 01730 890218 English Fireplaces