10 ways to childproof your home

11 Mar 2014

For many young couples, the prospect of starting a family is what prompts their first home purchase, but if you’re about to bring home a new baby, you need to make sure the property will provide a safe and loving environment. 

Install safety gates at the top and bottom of all stairways and keep them properly closed at all times.

This is according to Berry Everitt, MD of the Chas Everitt International property group, who has some advice on how to create a child-friendly home. Get tips... 

1. Install safety gates at the top and bottom of all stairways and keep them properly closed at all times.
 
2. Install plastic safety guardsin all unused plug points to keep out curious little fingers, and put snap locks on all ground-level cupboard doors.
 
3. Make sure any nappy or cleaning buckets havelockable lids, and install snap locks on toilet lids too. Small children are top heavy and can easily drown in little water.
 
4. If you have a pool, it’s best to have both a fence with a locked and alarmed gate and a safety net. Small children should also not be allowed to play in a paddling pool without supervision, and the pool should be emptied immediately after use. 
 
5. Make sure all bookcases and storage cabinets are firmly fixed to the wall with brackets so that they do not fall over if used as standing aids by a child learning to walk.
 
6. Make sure deck or balcony railings are close enough together so that a child can’t squeeze between them. If they are not, plastic mesh at least one metre high should be firmly fixed to the vertical railings and the floor.
 
7. Store medicines and chemical cleanersin closed, preferably locked cupboards, well out of reach of any furniture children can climb on.
 
8. In the kitchen, be careful not to let pot and pan handles project over the edge of the stove, and never leave a chair or stool near the stove.
 
9. If you have glass sliding doors, place bright stickers or decorative decals low down on the glass so that children can easily see when they’re closed.
 
10. And finally, keep children out of tool sheds and garages, and keep your car locked even when parked in the driveway.

DIY designer outdoor furniture

Forget my last feature for DIY outdoor furniture, this is definitely one garden suite that I want to build. The outdoor patio suite probably costs a small fortune but is a simple DIY project that anyone could tackle. I would probably use Meranti for the construction, but you could just as easily use any reclaimed timber you manage to get your hands on.

Seen on Architectural Digest, this patio set is shown in one of Cindy Crawford's holiday homes. Take a close look at the design and you will immediately see that this is most definitely a DIY do-able project for even a beginner!

While your could use PAR and laminated pine for this project, my personal opinion is that this design deserves something a bit better than pine. An affordable and far better timber than pine is meranti. This semi-hardwood is far better suited to the design of this outdoor patio set and is stronger than pine, and because you can buy wider planks, it actually works out only slightly more expensive and will last far longer.

If the budget allows, you might even consider looking at using teak for this project.

I based the measurements for the diagrams below on the range of meranti planks available from Esstee Timbers. If you plan on making this project for yourself, get in touch with your local timber merchant to see what sizes they supply.

SEAT BACK

SEAT BASE

SEAT ARM

SEAT ARM PANEL

To join the individual panels together you could use your preferred joining technique, which can include pocketholes, dowels or biscuits.

Do use exterior wood glue when making any furniture that will go outdoors.

Seal or varnish the piece after assembly to ensure protection from the elements. Plascon Woodcare has a range of preservative and sealers that can be used on any wood.

If you do make this project, feel free to share with us. We might just be able to organise a tool hamper for the best project.

- See more at: http://www.home-dzine.co.za/diy/diy-designer-patio.htm#sthash.Tb954DRr.dpuf

Trendy world map wallpaper décor

12 Nov 2013

Map wallpaper creates an instant effect by drawing attention to the impressive visual.

We know that wallpaper has made a big comeback in recent years as a result of digital print technology, but one trend that is popping up all over the world is decorating a space with wall maps.
Wallpapered.com says while there has always been plenty of choice when it comes to wallpaper, in the last couple of years a new trend of adorning your interiors in murals has emerged. World map imagery in particular has quickly become iconic in the field of interior design.
Informative yet beautiful, stylish world maps can be used as a feature wall or even as a method of keeping track of the places one has visited.
Map wallpaper covering a full wall creates an instant effect by drawing attention to the impressive visual. The world map mural is also an ideal choice for a child’s playroom or bedroom.
The cartography design is an educational and inspirational tool for children of all ages as well as for geography enthusiasts.

Applying wallpaper to walls is a quick and easy way to dress up a wall, as long as the walls are smooth.

Add impact to a plain wall. Applying the wallpaper to your walls is a quick and easy way of dressing up a room, as long as the walls are smooth.
Alternatively, you can use world map wallpaper on stairs, tabletops and to decorate the back of your closet or bookcase. You will find all the supplies you need to apply wallpaper at your local Builders Warehouse.
The information contained in this article is supplied by London-based Wallpapered.com. Wallpapered.com specialise in digitally printing custom wallpaper. They have a collection of World Map Wallpaper designs that are beautiful and comprehensive. They have a large range of modern and antique maps styles to satisfy any interior space.
Article courtesy of www.home-dzine.co.za. 

4 TV room hygiene and care tips

03 Oct 2013

Thursday nights is TV time for some people and it’s really the only time they walk away from the PC and take a break. This made me think about how much we spend in front of the TV, especially when it’s a sports weekend or soapie time.

As the seasons change, so does the angle of light entering the room. Daytime viewing can be a mission if the sun is shining on the TV or reflecting through a window. Stop the glare by fitting shades or blinds that can be opened/closed or angled to deflect natural light entering the room and spoiling your viewing time.

Here are few tips to make your viewing better and more enjoyable…
1. Don't let greasy fingerprints spoil your view
Switch off the TV before you do any cleaning. Use a lint free or microfibre cloth to clean your TV screen and avoid anything that might scratch the glass, such as paper towels. You don't need to apply cleaners to the screen, just use the cloth and wipe the screen from left to right, starting at the top and working your way down in a single wipe. This will clean up any greasy marks and remove dust.
2. Dust up the speakers
Most people would simply wipe with a damp cloth or furniture polish but this pushes the dust inside the grilles - rather use a soft makeup brush to lightly brush over speaker grilles to remove dust and then wipe with a lint-free or microfibre cloth.
And don't forget to clean circulation grilles and vents at the back or side of the TV. These vents help to keep the inner workings of your TV cool, so prevent dust from blocking them up.
3. Detox the remote
Baby wipes are ideal for cleaning a TV remote and for wiping off last night's TV dinner. Plus, a regular cleaning with baby wipes will keep your TV remote germ-free. Switch off the TV before you clean or you will be surfing through channels and changing your settings before you know it.
If you have a PVR you will know how handy the rewind/fast forward/pause button is and how you can easily get into a panic when it gets stuck. Chances are the button is all gunked up and you can easily open up the remote to clean out any gunge. Do take care when opening and make sure you put everything back properly.
4. Take the glare out of TV
As the seasons change, so does the angle of light entering the room. Daytime viewing can be a mission if the sun is shining on the TV or reflecting through a window.
Stop the glare by fitting shades or blinds that can be opened/closed or angled to deflect natural light entering the room and spoiling your viewing time.
If you're not prepared to fork out for window treatments, try angling the TV or moving it to a new spot. - Janice Anderssen
Article courtesy of www.homedzine.co.za

Dressing table with silver leaf finish

When you discover a secondhand find that is still is good condition, you can do almost anything with it. You can restore it, paint it, or you can add silver leaf and transform a plain dressing table into a gorgeous piece of modern furniture.

That's just what Virginia did at livelovediy - and it turned out awesome.

Here's how the table looks after being covered with silver leaf and with the addition of a glass top... absolutely stunning.

All you need for this project is some silver leaf, size (glue), a foam sponge pad and a paintbrush.

You will find silver leaf at craft and hobby stores, or get in touch with Brasch to find your nearest supplier.

GOOD TO KNOW

Put down a dropcloth or newspaper before you start - gilding can be messy!

To cover furniture in any kind of leaf you first need to apply size (glue) over the surface.

Work in sections and apply size to the surface and allow to dry until clear, or for approximately 20 to 30 minutes.

Gently lift a sheet of silver leaf and place over the size.

Brush with a soft paintbrush.

To cut down on the amount of silver leaf used for this project, Virginia spray the legs with Rust-Oleum metallic finish.

You can use Rust-Oleum Universal - titanium silver to achieve a similar effect.

To finish off the table and for added protection, a glass top is added to the dressing table.

You can have 5mm glass cut to size at your local Builders Warehouse.

- See more at: http://www.home-dzine.co.za/bedroom/bedroom-silver-leaf-dresser.htm#sthash.h68EDCaP.dpuf

Paint your new home before moving in

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Paint your new home before moving in

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09 Sep 2013

You have bought your first property, but now you want to turn your new house into your new home by adding some personal touches. The best way to do this in a relatively cost effective and easy way is by giving the home a new coat of paint.

Not having to move furniture around or cover it up will save a lot of time when painting.

Adrian Goslett, CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa, says not only is it a fun and exciting project for new homeowners, but is also gives the home an updated, refreshed look.
He says just by adding a fresh coat of paint, the home will immediately seem cleaner, more welcoming and more like yours. He says according to home décor experts, the best time to paint the interior of a home is before moving in for a number of reasons.
Reduces the effort
It is far easier and less physically challenging to paint the inside of a home when there is no furniture in the way. Goslett says having an empty room will help you move around more freely and place a step-ladder in and around the home with far less effort.
He says painting after the furniture has been moved in will mean manoeuvring heavy objects around to get to hard to reach places.
Saves time
Not having to move furniture around or cover it up will save a lot of time when painting. There will also be a lot of time saved from not having to take down any art or pictures from the wall.
Saves money
Goslett says if the new homeowner is painting the home themselves there won’t be much money saved, however, if they have hired a professional painting contractor or some workers to do the job it can possibly save them in costs.
“The painters will be able to move from one room to the next far faster, which will save money if they have been contracted on a daily rate. Less time spent on the labour will essentially mean less money spent on labour costs.”
Protects your furniture
It is simple, if there is no furniture in the home, it can’t get ruined. Goslett says regardless of how careful the new homeowner or a painting contractor is when painting, there is always the chance that paint could spill or paint specks could find their way onto the furniture or into electrical appliances.
He says that could be a rather expensive fix depending on where the paint lands.
Decorating the home
This is particularly true if the homeowner has not yet bought any décor items for their new home. Having a specific colour palette to work from will make the process of decorating a room far easier, says Goslett.
He advises that if you are unsure when choosing paint colours, you should test several shades of the colour selections on the wall in a section of your new home. The painted area should be allowed to dry for 24 hours before viewing it, he says.
“View the colour swatches in the morning, noon and evening, as the colours will appear to be different tones depending on the time of day. This will give you the chance to compare the shades to see which one is best for you.”
Goslett says purchasing a new home is an exciting time and painting your home is a great way to express your individuality and ensure that your home reflects your sense of style and personality.

Need advice on painting floors?

Need advice on painting floors?

Need to give your home a makeover? Paint is still one of the easiest and most affordable ways to instantly update a room - no matter what surface you paint. And paint is not just for walls. With proper preparation and the right paint you can paint just about any surface in and around the home.

Get started

There are a few tips you should know beforehand, and these will ensure a professional paint job on a wide range of surfaces. Let's look at a few basics...

• Always follow the instructions. Short-cuts normally end up in mess-ups, so take the time to read and follow the manufacturer's guidelines for each product.

• Prep surfaces as required. All surfaces will need a thorough clean - or sanding - before painting. If you're not sure what is required, check the package instructions or browse through our articles on Home-Dzine. Polycell Sugar Soapis an all-round product for cleaning prior to painting.

• Work in a well-ventilated area and wear safety glasses and dust mask when required.

• Clean any areas of mould or mildew before painting.

• While primer may not be essential for all painting projects, where recommended use a primer. A primer improves the bonding of paint to surface and extends the life and durability of any painted finish.

Paint ceramic tile

Ceramic wall tile can be painted over. Many readers ask if they can paint floor tiles and unfortunately the answer is, no. Floor tiles are subjected to everyday traffic, and because ceramic tiles are non-porous and unable to absorb the primer or paint, the painted layer will soon wear away.

Plascon Tile & Melamine Primer
Plascon Velvaglo
Foam roller (or roller with extremely low pile)
Small paintbrush for corners and around fittings
Masking tape - to mask off areas not to be painted
Polycell brush cleaner

1. After cleaning, give tiles a light sanding with 120/150-grit sandpaper and then wipe clean. Let the surface dry.
   
2. Apply Plascon Tile Primer to the tile surface and allow to dry before lightly sanding with 220-grit sandpaper.
   
3. Apply a second coat of Plascon Tiler Primer and again, let this dry and lightly sand before applying Plascon Velvaglo as the top coat.

If you don't want to paint over the grout, apply self-adhesive tape over the grouted areas. Automotive tape is thin enough to easily cut into strips and place over grout lines while you paint. Remove the tape when the paint is dry to touch but not completely cured (after about an hour).

Paint laminate floors

Scuffs and scratches on laminate floors can be covered up to a degree, but if you are looking for a completely new look without replacing floors, then painting a laminate floor is an option.

Preparation is the key to a lasting paint finish on laminate floors and you will need to spend a fair amount of time on prep before you start painting. It's also a good idea to choose a small inconspicuous spot to try out before you paint the entire floor, as not all laminate floors are the same.

Plascon Wall & All
Foam roller (or roller with extremely low pile)
Extension pole
Small paintbrush for corners and around fittings
Masking tape - to mask off areas not to be painted
Orbital sander plus 180-grit sanding pads

1. Sand the entire floor (or tester spot) with 180-grit sanding pads to degloss the finish. Most laminate floors have a layer of plastic coating over the top that protects the wood grain image below - you don't want to completely remove the plastic, just remove the glossy finish so that paint has something to bond to.
   
2. Wipe clean to remove all traces of dust.
   
3. Apply the paint directly onto the sanded floor using a foam roller. Pushing an extension pole into the handle of the foam roller makes painting easier and puts less strain on your back.
   
4. Let the paint dry overnight before applying a second coat.
   

Note: As with laminate floors, once painted the finish is not waterproof and this technique is not recommended for areas where there is high traffic. This technique doesn't offer a permanent solution, but rather one that can be used until you can afford to replace flooring.

Paint melamine

Melamine and laminate finishes are predominant in most homes and used for built-in cupboards and cabinets. Over time the finish yellows with age and can easily be painted over for a fresh, new look.

Plascon Tile & MelaminePrimer
Plascon Velvaglo (gloss) or Kitchens & Bathrooms paint (matt)
Foam roller (or roller with extremely low pile)
Small paintbrush for corners and around fittings
Masking tape - to mask off areas not to be painted
Polycell brush cleaner

1. After cleaning, give melamine a light sanding with 180-grit sandpaper and then wipe clean.
   
2. Apply Plascon Melamine Primer to the surface and allow to dry for the specified time.
   
3. Apply Plascon Velvaglo or Plascon Kitchen & Bathroom paint as the top coat.

Note: Plascon Velvalgo offers a glossy finish that is easy to keep clean while Plascon Kitchens & Bathrooms paint has a matt finish that is not as washable.

Paint a hardwood floor

Once sanded, hardwood floors can be painted, whitewashed or limed as desired. As with all surfaces to be painted, the key to a lasting finish is in the preparation.

Plascon Wall & All or Plascon Velvaglo - click here for liming and whitewashing
Foam roller (or roller with extremely low pile)
Small paintbrush for corners and around fittings
Masking tape - to mask off areas not to be painted

1. A previously varnished, sealed, waxed or painted floor should be sanded with 80-, 120-and 240-grit sanding pads to remove the existing finish. Click here for tips on sanding a hardwood floor.
   
2. Make sure the entire floor is completely dust free before painting.
   
3. Apply Plascon Wood Primer before painting with Velvaglo to ensure proper adhesion.
   
4. Apply Plascon Wall & All or Plascon Velvaglo as the top coat. Follow the instructions on the can for application and drying times.

Note: If using Plascon Velvaglo the surface can easily be cleaned with an ever-so-slightly damp mop. This technique is not recommended for areas where there is high traffic.

Paint vinyl floors

Where vinyl flooring is still in good condition, rather than rip out and replace, you can paint a vinyl floor. Once painted, you can add a stencil or pattern to your vinyl floor.

Plascon Tile & MelaminePrimer
Plascon Velvaglo
Foam roller (or roller with extremely low pile)
Small paintbrush for corners and around fittings
Masking tape - to mask off areas not to be painted
Polycell brush cleaner

1. A thorough cleaning is required to remove all traces of grease and wax polish.Plascon RemovAll Degreaser is recommended for floors that have been regularly polished.
   
2. Lightly sand the surface of vinyl floors with 240-grit sandpaper and then wipe clean.
   
3. Apply Plascon Tile & Melamine Primer to the surface and allow to dry for the specified time.
   
4. Apply Plascon Velvaglo as the top coat; re-coat and allow to dry as per the instructions.

Note: Experts advise against painting cushioned-sheet flooring, as furniture and heels will dent the surface and crack the paint. Add Plascon Grip Additive where a non-slip finish is required.

Paint a concrete floor

Many homeowners are making the decision to leave out conventional floor coverings and opt for the convenience of a painted concrete floor. You can paint a concrete floor as long as the existing surface is in good condition, or a screed has been applied. This technique is not recommended for wood-screeded or rough, raw concrete floors.

Plascon RemovALL High Strength Degreaser
Plascon RemovALL Rust Remover and Concrete Etcher
Plascon Floor Paint
Polycell brush cleaner
Polycell Masonry Patching Plaster or Polycell Rockset

1. The concrete finish must be in good condition for painting, and you will need to give it a good clean before painting. Any cracks can be repaired with Polycell Masonry Patching Plaster or Polycell Rockset - both of which need time to dry before being painted over. Scrub the floor with Plascon RemovALL High Strength Degreaser and then rRinse with clean water and allow to dry.
   
2. Apply Plascon RemovALL Rust Remover and Concrete Etcher to ensure a longer lasting finish. Follow the instructions and allow to dry.
   
3. Apply paint with a foam roller for a brush-stroke-free finish.

Note: Add Plascon Grip Additive where a non-slip finish is required. Although not recommended by Plascon, you can also use Plascon Polvin tinted in your choice of colour to paint as a top coat for interior floors; follow this with two coats of polyurethane sealer.

Janice Anderssen