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	<title>DirectBuy Home Improvement Blog &#187; Home Improvement</title>
	<atom:link href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/tag/home-improvement/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
	<link>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog</link>
	<description>The #1 way to buy direct for your home.</description>
	<lastBuildDate>Fri, 20 Nov 2009 16:19:33 +0000</lastBuildDate>
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		<title>Wallpaper a Room in Under a Week</title>
		<link>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-decor/wallpaper-a-room-in-under-a-week/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-decor/wallpaper-a-room-in-under-a-week/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 09 Nov 2009 21:25:57 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Pat, Home Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home Decor]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hang Wallpaper]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Improvement]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Remodeling]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/?p=1203</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Got a drab wall color that you don’t want to re-paint? Or maybe you want to give one of the rooms in your home a new look in under a week. If so, wall paper is the way to go.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-1205" style="margin-left: 8px; margin-right: 8px;" title="wallpaper" src="http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/wallpaper.jpg" alt="wallpaper" width="249" height="373" />Got a drab wall color that you don’t want to re-paint? Or maybe you want to give one of the rooms in your home a new look in under a week. If so, wall paper is the way to go. It’s fairly easy to do but you need to set aside time to completely devote your attention to this so-it-yourself project so you can get it right.</p>
<h3>Here are the main steps involved with wallpapering a room:</h3>
<ol>
<li>Prepare your walls by removing dust and dirt, spackling cracks, and removing old wallpaper if necessary</li>
<li>Choose your starting point to determine where the first strip of wallpaper will go</li>
<li>Cut the wall paper to the proper length to make sure patterns match</li>
<li>Activate adhesive on pre-pasted paper by dipping it into room temperature water</li>
<li>Apply wallpaper paste</li>
<li>Hang the wallpaper starting at the ceiling</li>
<li>Remove excess wallpaper</li>
<li>Smooth the corners of the wallpaper</li>
<li>Apply the next strip of wallpaper while making sure it overlaps the previous strip by at least 1 inch</li>
<li>Repeat steps 1-9</li>
</ol>
<p>The above steps are helpful reminders but make sure you read the instructions that come with your particular wallpaper. Each brand is different and you need to follow their set of guidelines to complete this home remodeling project successfully.</p>
<p>For more design tips and ideas, consult the experts at your local DirectBuy showroom. <a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/ " target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> has a beautiful selection of <a title="home improvement products" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/ " target="_blank">home improvement products</a> at wholesale prices every day. A one-stop shop for all your furnishing, home building and remodeling needs, DirectBuy has virtually everything – including the kitchen sink – for in and around your home.</p>
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		<title>Faux Leather Furniture: Environmentally Friendly or Not?</title>
		<link>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-furnishings/faux-leather-furniture/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-furnishings/faux-leather-furniture/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 06 Nov 2009 19:14:32 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Pat, Home Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home Furnishings]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Faux Leather Furniture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Improvement]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Remodeling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Leatherette]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Naugahyde]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Pleather]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/?p=1195</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Most people love the look of leather furniture  but some can’t afford it and others may choose not to base on their vegetarian or vegan lifestyle. Enter faux leather furniture.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-1197" style="margin-left: 8px; margin-right: 8px;" title="leather couch" src="http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/leather-couch.jpg" alt="leather couch" width="344" height="228" />Most people love the look of <a title="leather furniture" href="http://www.directlivingfurniture.com/leather.aspx" target="_blank">leather furniture</a> but some can’t afford it and others may choose not to base on their vegetarian or vegan lifestyle. Enter faux leather furniture.</p>
<h3>Faux Leather Furniture – Vegan Friendly</h3>
<p>Faux leather furniture is made from other materials besides animal skins so they are extremely vegetarian and vegan friendly. Other names for faux leather furniture include leatherette, pleather, and naugahyde.</p>
<h3>Look for Environmentally Friendly Styles</h3>
<p>While some faux leather styles are not environmentally friendly there are some biodegradable forms of polyurethane leather, you just have to look a little harder and be prepared to spend more money.</p>
<p>For faux leather that best suits your lifestyle, check out <a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/ " target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> where you will find a beautiful selection of faux <a title="leather furniture and accessories" href="http://www.directlivingfurniture.com/" target="_blank">leather furniture and accessories</a> to create a rich, luxurious ambiance in your home. Let the experts at DirectBuy help you choose the furniture and coordinating accessories that fit your lifestyle.</p>
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		<title>Garage Doors Provide Protection for Your Carport Area</title>
		<link>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-remodeling/garage-doors-add-security/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-remodeling/garage-doors-add-security/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 29 Jun 2009 19:47:55 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Pat, Home Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home Remodeling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Improvement]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wholesale Home Remodeling]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/?p=883</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Garage doors come in hundreds of different designs and styles.  The most popular types are eigher wood, steel, or a composite material. No matter which style or type you choose, new garage doors will  composed of one of three materials: wood, steel, or composite.  Regardless of the material chosen, any of them can add elegance and value to your home. ]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Need a little extra storage space or do you want to enclose your carport area?  Install a garage door for increased privacy and security of your automobile and other stored belongings.</p>
<p>Garage doors come in hundreds of designs and styles.  Most doors are composed of one of three materials: wood, steel, or composite.  Regardless of the material chosen, any of them can add elegance and value to your home.  Additionally, some garage doors qualify for energy tax credit due to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.</p>
<p>Doors can be automatic or self-operating.  Increase the value of your home while also providing additional security for items in your garage by installing beautiful garage doors.</p>
<p>For all of your home remodeling needs, <a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> offers a wide range of <a title="brand-name home improvement products" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">brand-name home improvement products</a> to help you get the job done right and result in the look and efficiency you want &#8211; all at savings of up to 50% off retail prices.</p>
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		<title>Versatile Glass Tile Is A Beautiful Choice For Your Home</title>
		<link>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/tile/versatile-glass-tile/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/tile/versatile-glass-tile/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 06 May 2009 14:49:02 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Pat, Home Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Tile]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Improvement]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wholesale Tile]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/?p=746</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[For a busy family, glass tile is a wonderful choice of materials to give your home a completely updated look while minimizing cleaning and maintenance time.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Whether you choose glass tile for your kitchen backsplash, shower wall, or flooring, this choice will make an impressive difference in any room. Glass tile will work in almost any area of your home for a fresh, updated look.</p>
<p>Since glass doesn’t absorb liquids it is a great choice for backsplashes and walls as a layer of protection.  Durable and easy to clean, you can usually clean up any spill or splatter with a mild soap and a dampened cloth.  Use a clean, dry cloth to dry the area thoroughly.</p>
<p>For a busy family, glass tile is a wonderful choice of materials to give your home a completely updated look while minimizing cleaning and maintenance time.</p>
<p>For all your home remodeling needs, whether <a title="kitchen" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/" target="_blank">kitchen</a>, <a title="bath" href="http://www.directbathroomremodeling.com/default.aspx" target="_blank">bath</a> or any other area of your home, <a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> has top-quality products to help you create the perfect atmosphere for you and your family – all at wholesale prices to save you money.</p>
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		<title>Simple Changes Bring a Summertime Feeling To Any Room</title>
		<link>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-furnishings/simple-changes-for-summer-time/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-furnishings/simple-changes-for-summer-time/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 05 May 2009 18:50:33 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Pat, Home Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home Furnishings]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Furniture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Accessories]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Improvement]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/?p=743</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Summer time is near and it’s time to lighten up your home for the warmer months. You don’t have to spend a fortune to do this. Here are a few simple ideas.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Summer time is near and it’s time to lighten up your home for the warmer months. You don’t have to spend a fortune to do this. Here are a few simple ideas.</p>
<p>Take down the heavy winter curtains and hang simple panels with a lighter texture – the linen look for summer will brighten up your rooms in various summer shades from white to wheat and they will go with any color scheme.</p>
<p>Change out the throw pillows on your sofa. Choose a brighter hue for summer time. You can stay within the same family, but choose cooler fabrics for summer. Make your sofa look inviting for a summer afternoon nap.</p>
<p>If you have hardwood floors, consider taking out your current heavy rug and throw around a few lightweight area rugs. The feeling of cool wood floors underneath your feet feels great in the summer time.</p>
<p>Whatever you need to decorate or redecorate your home, <a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> has you covered with <a title="brand name products for every room" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/home-furnishings.aspx" target="_blank">brand name products for every room</a> – all at prices that will save you up to 50% off retail.</p>
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		<title>Turn A Bulkhead Into An Architectural Accent</title>
		<link>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-remodeling/architectural-accent/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-remodeling/architectural-accent/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 01 Apr 2009 20:03:22 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Pat, Home Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home Remodeling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Improvement]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Remodeling Products]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/?p=644</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Bulkheads are large rectangular spaces normally found around cabinets, frame headers, or in basements. Often unsightly, they can be remodeled as a room accent and used for additional storage.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The word bulkhead might bring to mind something in boats for most people, but these are also found in the home and can be turned into great architectural accent areas in your home design.  Bulkheads are large rectangular spaces normally found around cabinets, frame headers, or in basements.</p>
<p>Bulkheads originally were spaces utilized to hide pipes or wiring.  Removing these bulkheads might not be feasible or possible in your home design, so why not turn them into an accent piece or additional storage area?  Cover them with beautiful wood or paneling, fabric, or wallpaper to make a striking statement in the room.</p>
<p>For additional storage, consider installing doors to the bulkhead as long as the space doesn’t contain wiring, pipes, or heating/air vents.  Before ripping out the bulkhead, consider integrating it into your new design.</p>
<p>For a wide range of helpful home improvement and <a title="home remodeling products" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">home remodeling products</a> at manufacturer-direct prices, see what <a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> has to offer.</p>
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		<title>Fireplace Furnishings</title>
		<link>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-furnishings/fireplace-furnishings/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-furnishings/fireplace-furnishings/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 02 Mar 2009 21:58:19 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Pat, Home Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home Furnishings]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fireplace Furnishings]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Improvement]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/?p=542</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Purchasing high-quality fire tools and screens can make caring for the fire much easier and safer.  Screens are available in many designs including sliding metal, glass doors, or full surround coverings.  Tool sets are normally offered in the same design and finish as screens. ]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Nothing feels better in the winter than the warmth and beauty emitted from a fireplace.  Whether it is a gas or wood burning fireplace, the heat emitted can be a great way to warm you up on those chilly days and nights.  It is important to have the necessary accessories so you can further beautify the fireplace and provide a protective barrier as well.</p>
<p>Purchasing high-quality fire tools and screens can make caring for the fire much easier and safer.  Screens are available in many designs including sliding metal, glass doors, or full surround coverings.  Tool sets are normally offered in the same design and finish as screens.</p>
<p>Purchase sturdy and well constructed tool sets to further ensure longevity of the tools and your safety.  Mantels are available in many styles and provide a stunning addition to your fireplace.  Increase your enjoyment of a roaring fire by purchasing high quality and beautiful fireplace accessories.</p>
<p><a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> has a wide selection of beautiful, <a title="top-quality home furnishings" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/home-furnishings.aspx" target="_blank">top-quality home furnishings</a> to help you create the look you want in your living room and throughout your home. Brand-name products of all kinds are available at prices up to 50% off retail.</p>
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		<title>Smart Home Building, Part III</title>
		<link>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-building/building-smart/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-building/building-smart/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 18 Nov 2008 20:37:55 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Pat, Home Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home Building]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Building]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Improvement]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Remodeling]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/?p=255</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Two of the most important things you can do when building or remodeling is to employ a reputable contractor and to get a comprehensive estimate in writing. Home building is a big step, make sure you take the steps to protect your finances and end up with a job well done.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-264" style="margin-left: 8px; margin-right: 8px;" title="gdb_41" src="http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/gdb_41.jpg" alt="" width="176" height="176" />Employ a Reputable Contractor</strong></p>
<p>The most critical factor in home building is the hiring of a reputable, home building contractor. There are many building contractors you can hire, but before you contract with any of them, make sure to carry out a thorough background check on the one you intend to award your home building project to.</p>
<p>A qualified, building contractor will be in a position to demonstrate their skills, and even provide you with solid, pictorial evidence and documents of successful home building projects handled by them earlier.</p>
<p><strong>Get a Comprehensive Estimate</strong></p>
<p>This is a very important aspect for your budget planning. Once you’ve decided on the building contracting company, get them to furnish you with a comprehensive, estimate that covers every little nitty-gritty, detail involved in building your new home.</p>
<p>In the event that you specify a particular type of material or item that you desire, (e.g., wood flooring, special lighting, or paint), ensure that these are included in the final written contract. Remember to also negotiate and include a ‘change order’ clause in the contract, as changes are not only inevitable, but occur frequently during home building and can involve sudden, extra costs.</p>
<p>It’s important to understand, that in home building, a dollar saved, is a dollar gained. And every extra dollar you save will not only add up to a lot of money, but will come handy when you wish to add all those little extras and accents to your new home.</p>
<p>Let <a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> help you create a comfortable, efficient home environment with <a title="top-quality home improvement products" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/home-remodeling.aspx" target="_blank">top-quality home improvement products</a> from leading manufacturers and their authorized suppliers at manufacturer-direct wholesale prices.</p>
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		<title>Home Improvement Ideas, Part III</title>
		<link>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-improvement/landsaping-for-home-improvement/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-improvement/landsaping-for-home-improvement/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 05 Nov 2008 17:42:58 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Pat, Home Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home Improvement]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Garden Decor]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Remodeling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Outdoor Improvements]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/?p=239</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When making home improvements, don't neglect your outdoor areas. Curb appeal is important, not just when selling your home, but to make yourself a proud homeowner. Landscaping and outdoor improvements give your home aesthetic appeal and increase the value too.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Have you thought about landscaping?</strong><br />
Many people focus completely on the indoor areas when updating their homes and making home improvement plans. But don&#8217;t forget the value of curb appeal. Landscaping and <a title="outdoor improvements" href="http://www.directoutdoorliving.com/" target="_blank">outdoor improvements</a> can add aesthetic value to your home.</p>
<p>You don&#8217;t have to go overboard; simple landscaping of the outdoor areas of your home can make a big impact. You can start by adding a few extra flowering plants, replacing your old planters with colorful blooms, and adding a few tasteful garden décor items.</p>
<p>Home improvement will indeed build equity for your home and has the potential to give you a substantial profit if you decide to sell your home later. Most of all, paying attention to a few details and making sensible improvements to the areas that need it most will certainly pay off in the long run &#8211; and not only that,  your home will proudly reflect your personality, taste … and exclusive sense of style.</p>
<p>When you&#8217;re ready to start your home improvement project, <a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> can help you save money. With a wide range of <a title="home remodeling products" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/home-remodeling.aspx" target="_blank">home remodeling products </a>for every room in your home and outdoors, you can create the home you&#8217;ve always wanted.</p>
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		<title>Home Improvement Ideas, Part I</title>
		<link>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-remodeling/home-improvement/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-remodeling/home-improvement/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 03 Nov 2008 15:37:28 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Pat, Home Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home Remodeling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Improvement]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Remodeling]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/?p=231</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Home improvement can definitely be a big investment, but owning a home is the best investment you can make for the long term. Where to begin is the big question when considering upgrading your home. DirectBuy can help you save on quality home improvement products to help you achieve your goals.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Add Comfort, Equity and Value to Your Home</strong><br />
Home improvement can cost thousands of dollars, but in the long term, it is money well spent. If you furnish your home with quality furnishings, maintain it well, and improve it sensibly, your home won’t be just an investment … it will be a great, equity builder, and an asset, too.</p>
<p>Take a good close look at your current home … do some areas really need improvement? If they do, you’ll need to take another look at your financial resources and work on a budget, or seek a home improvement loan. Either way, here’s some advice to consider.</p>
<p><strong>Do you have the funds?</strong><br />
Home improvement can cost a lot of money, depending on the scope, size and number of areas in your home that need improvement. However, if you don’t have the financial resources, you can apply for a home improvement loan to cover the costs involved. This will be helpful to carry out any major, home improvement work in your home, give it a fresh, new look, and in the process, give it added, equity value.</p>
<p><strong>Where are improvements needed?</strong><br />
Perhaps, the first factors to consider, and which matter most, are the structural aspects, and the condition of various systems installed in your home. For example, if the heating system is faulty, the roof leaks in places, or the countertop in the kitchen is cracked, it will be imperative to fix these first.</p>
<p>Even if your main purpose of home improvement is to make your home more comfortable and appealing, rather than merely to give it more equity and value, structural damage of malfunctioning, systems must be repaired immediately.</p>
<p><a title="DirectBuy " href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy </a>carries a wide range of <a title="home improvement products " href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">home improvement products </a>to help you improve your home and give it not only the updated look you want, but the added value that comes with remodeling. You’ll find top-quality products at manufacturer-direct prices.</p>
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		<title>Tips To Avoid Stress When Remodeling Your Home</title>
		<link>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-remodeling/tips-to-avoid-stress-when-remodeling/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-remodeling/tips-to-avoid-stress-when-remodeling/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 22 Oct 2008 19:42:55 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Pat, Home Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home Remodeling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Improvement]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Remodeling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wholesale Remodeling Products]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/?p=200</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[A major home remodeling project can be stressful. A few helpful tips such as making a solid plan, determining your budget and others can help you avoid some of the stressful issues.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Homeowners choose to remodel their homes for various reasons. Some remodel or update in preparation for selling; others choose to update their homes for personal enjoyment and additional convenience. Regardless of your reason, remodeling will have an immediate impact on the value of your home.</p>
<p>Remodeling while living in your home can be a bit stressful as the process interrupts your normal living conditions.</p>
<p><strong>Here are a few tips to help you simplify the <a title="home remodeling " href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">home remodeling </a>process:</strong></p>
<p><strong>Identify Your Primary Purpose for Remodeling</strong><br />
When remodeling to sell, the experts will tell you that the kitchen makes the biggest impact. So make a plan to start there.</p>
<p><strong>Start with a Good Solid Plan</strong><br />
Before you begin, analyze your personal needs and put your remodeling projects in a priority list. You can save time and frustration by choosing to do the most needed projects first.</p>
<p><strong>Prepare a Realistic Budget</strong><br />
Once you’ve determined where you will begin the remodeling process, set a budget that you can work with and commit to sticking to it.</p>
<p><strong>Determine Your Style</strong><br />
If you’re remodeling for person reasons, choose the style, colors and design best suited for your family. If remodeling to sell, stick with neutral colors and simplicity. Let the new owners add their own personal touch with the style that suits them.</p>
<p><a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> can help you remodel your home.  You can rely on expert advice from product their specialists and count on great savings with manufacturer-direct prices on all your home renovating and furnishing needs.</p>
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		<title>Choose Earth-Friendly Products for Your Home</title>
		<link>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-remodeling/earth-friendly-home-improvement-products/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/home-remodeling/earth-friendly-home-improvement-products/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 19 Sep 2008 16:14:51 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Pat, Home Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Home Remodeling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cork]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Eco-friendly Home Improvement Products]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Improvement]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Linoleum]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Natural Fiber Carpet]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Recycled Glass]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Remodeling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wood]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/?p=95</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Do your part to protect the environment. Shop for earth-friendly products like natural fiber carpet, cork, recycled glass and wood from sustainably managed forests. DirectBuy carries a wide variety of home improvement products for your home at manufacturer-direct prices.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/09/hw_04.jpg"><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-97" title="hw_04" src="http://www.directhomediscount.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/09/hw_04.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="153" /></a>While everyone is talking about “going green” and saving the environment, it’s not always easy to know what to look for when shopping for earth-friendly products for your home.</p>
<p>In addition to recycling, choosing paper over plastic, and reducing our usage of electricity, gas, and water there are home products and furnishings we can choose that are also more environmentally friendly.</p>
<p><strong>Natural Fiber Carpet</strong><br />
When purchasing new <a title="carpet" href="http://www.directdiscountcarpet.com/" target="_blank">carpet</a>, remember natural fibers. Great options in natural fiber include sisal and jute. Be sure to look for natural fiber backing and make sure no chemical treatment or toxic adhesives were used in the production process.</p>
<p><strong>Wood from Sustainably Managed Forests</strong><br />
We all know that replenishing our sources of wood is a lengthy process, so if you’re concerned with the environment you can choose <a title="wood flooring and furnishings" href="http://www.directdiscounthardwood.com/" target="_blank">wood flooring and furnishings</a> made from lumber derived from sustainably managed forests. This way you’ll know that high standards and practices are followed for responsible forestry practices.</p>
<p><strong>Recycled</strong> <strong>Glass</strong><br />
Many products in all kinds of styles and colors are available today that are made from at least 75% recycled glass.</p>
<p><strong>Cork</strong><br />
Why is cork an earth-friendly option? Mainly because the cork is obtained from the bark of the cork oak tree. The process does not harm the tree itself and is usually stripped no more frequently than every nine years.</p>
<p><strong>Linoleum</strong><br />
You may be surprised to know that linoleum is one of the greenest products on the market today. It’s non toxic and made from natural, renewable resources.  Look for 100% biodegradable linoleum products that have no gas emissions.</p>
<p>When you’re ready to <a title="build, remodel, or refurnish your home" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/home-remodeling.aspx" target="_blank">build, remodel, or refurnish your home</a>, keep <a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> in mind if you’re looking for great selection, great prices, and top quality. Manufacturer-direct prices help you get what you need without draining your bank account.</p>
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