Restaurants Near Grand Central Station New York

Restaurant options for all occassions near the Grand Central Terminal

Grand Central is located between 42nd Street and Park Avenue in the adrenaline-fueled city of New York. The terminal has the largest number of platforms in the world and caters to commuters traveling on the Metro-North Railroad. It is also frequently visited by many tourists simply for its architectural beauty, particularly the astronomical ceiling in the Main Course. Although there are a few dining options within Grand Central, there are also a wide variety of restaurants nearby for both commuters and visitors.

24 Hour Dining at the Plaza Diner

In the city that never sleeps, knowing where to eat at 2 a.m. is crucial and Plaza Diner makes sure hungry diners are left full. The old-school diner with comfy booths, neon lights and a long counter table in the front serves massive-sized comfort food 24 hours a day except on Mondays when they close at midnight. Diners can feast on triple-decker turkey sandwiches to open-faced Reuben to eggplant parmigiana. Typical to diner service, the servers are quick, efficient and enjoyable to watch as they weave through the aisles taking order after order.

Plaza Diner

1066 Second Ave. (near 56th Street)

New York, NY 10022

212-980-8282

http://plazadinernyc.com

Business Lunch at S. Dynasty

Steakhouses are synonymous with New York business lunches, but having lunch and S. Dynasty and truly soaking in the array of cultures in the city may impress the clients more than just meat and potatoes. Overlooking Lexington Avenue on the second floor of the Radisson Hotel is this traditional Chinese restaurant serving cuisine from different regions of China. The restaurant has multiple private rooms perfect for small business lunch meetings. The menu is expansive and familiar but the Chef's Menu is impressive with whole fish, fresh lobster and the traditional Peking duck.

Radisson Hotel

511 Lexington (48th Street)

New York, NY 10017

212-355-1200

http://www.sdynastyny.com

Family-Friendly Dining at John's Pizzeria

Just a 20-minute stroll from Grand Central is John's Pizzeria, a family-friendly restaurant serving New York's traditional dish, the pizza. The spacious, Italian-influenced space with opened second floor balcony serves diners delicious brick-oven, family-style pizza pies with multiple toppings. For the health conscious, John's also serves whole-wheat pies. The menu includes many other Italian fares such as pasta, panninis, sandwiches, entrees and salads.

John's Pizzeria

260 West 44th St. (between 8th Avenue and Broadway)

New York, NY 10036

212-390-7560

http://johnspizzerianyc.com

Romantic Date at GILT

The décor and architectural design exudes romance at GILT but it is the New American, farm fresh menu that seals the deal. Rooms are vast and resemble the Grand Central with its high cavernous ceiling. Dramatic draperies hang from floor to ceiling while the contemporary seating modernizes the restaurant. The restaurant has been awarded the 2009 Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator and recently received a two-star Michelin Award in 2010. Diners may particularly enjoy the decadent Tasting Menu with items like slow-cooked egg, Tandoori spiced black cod and suckling pig or opt for the Grand Seven Course. Both have an option of the house Sommelier's wine pairings.

GILT at the New York Palace Hotel

455 Madison Ave. (between 50th and 51st Street)

New York, NY 10022

212-891-8900

http://www.giltnewyork.com

Tags: Grand Central, John Pizzeria, Plaza Diner, Street York, Radisson Hotel, restaurant serving

Ceiling Fan With Lights Installation

A lighted ceiling fan allows you to replace a standard light fixture.

If you're looking for a way to help make your home more energy-efficient, installing a ceiling fan can help accomplish that. A ceiling fan creates cool breezes in the summer and reduces the amount of time your air-conditioning unit is running. In the winter, the fan can drive the warm air that rises to the ceiling down toward the floor, keeping your house warmer. Some ceiling fan models come with light fixtures attached, which means you can replace an existing light fixture with a lighted ceiling fan, eliminating the need to run more wiring.

Instructions

1. Shut off the power to the existing light fixture at your main electrical box. Turn the light switch on and off to test the circuit.

2. Remove the cover or shade that covers the lightbulb on the fixture, then remove the bulb.

3. Unscrew the nuts or screws that hold the fixture to the ceiling and slowly lower the fixture.

4. Untwist the plastic twist-on wire connectors. Separate the wires on the lighting fixture from the wires leading from your main electrical box.

5. Remove the electrical box from the ceiling. If it's screwed to the ceiling joist, unscrew it. If it's nailed to the joist, pry it off with a pry bar.

6. Place a 1/2-inch deep pancake box against the ceiling, centering it over a joist. Trace the outline of the box onto the ceiling. Attach a cable connector to the pancake box. A pancake box is a round, narrow electrical box that can be used when you don't need a full-size electrical box.

7. Cut a hole in the ceiling with a drywall saw, following the tracing. Wear eye protection and cover your mouth with a mask or similar object to avoid breathing in the drywall dust.

8. Slide the electrical cables coming from the ceiling through the knockout hole in the pancake box. The knockout hole is the small, recessed circle on the pancake box that is removed to allow electrical cable to go into the box. You can punch this out with a screwdriver or knockout hole punch. Run them under the cable connector and tighten the screw to keep the wires in place. Place the pancake box into the hole in the ceiling and attach it to the ceiling joist with the provided screws. If there is a bare copper (grounding) wire coming from the main electrical box, wrap it around the grounding screw in the pancake box and tighten the screw. Let the rest of the wires hang down.

9. Cover the hole in the ceiling from the old light fixture. You can either cut a piece of drywall to fit the hole and patch it into place, or you can install a ceiling medallion centered over the pancake box, which will cover the old hole.

10. Place the ceiling plate over the pancake box and pull the wires through the hole in the center of the pancake box. Attach the ceiling plate to the pancake box.

11. Lift the fan motor housing assembly to the ceiling so you can connect the wires. Ideally, you'd have an assistant to hold the housing assembly while you connect the wires, but if you don't, hang the canopy (the metal plate at the top of the assembly that covers the wires) over one side of the ceiling plate.

12. Connect the wires from the fan to the wires from the ceiling. Twist the bare ends of the wires together with the plastic connector caps. Connect the white wires to the white wires and the black wires to the black wires. If you have a grounding wire leading from the electrical box, connect that to the green wire from the fan housing.

13. Lift the canopy into position against the ceiling and screw it into place.

14. Attach the fan blades to the blade irons with the provided screws. The blade irons are the metal pieces that connect the fan blades to the motor housing.

15. Connect the light fixture housing to the wire leading through the fan, following the manufacturer's instructions.

16. Install the lightbulb and shade or cover, whichever is provided with the fan.

17.Restore power to the electrical circuit and test the fan.

Tags: light fixture, ceiling plate, from ceiling, hole ceiling, knockout hole, main electrical

Replace Recessed Light Fixtures

Recessed lighting is a wonderful decor for any room. It adds ambiance and elegance to bedrooms, family rooms, kitchens and living rooms. If you already have recessed lighting fixtures but want or need to replace them, just follow these steps. Within a few hours, you'll be seeing your rooms in a whole new light.

Instructions

1. Turn off power to the light fixture at the breaker panel. Check with a circuit tester to make sure there is no power at the fixture.

2. Remove the bulb and decorative trim. The trim is merely snapped in place and does not require any tools for removal. Use needle-nosed pliers to remove the springs or clips holding the metal casing. Take out the casing.

3. Measure existing light fixture so you can buy the proper sized replacement. Purchase new recessed lighting fixtures at any lighting store or home improvement center.

4. Unscrew cover plate from the electrical connection box that is exposed once you remove the metal casing. Recheck wires with circuit tester to make sure power is off. Remove wire nuts, and disconnect wires.

5. Slide new light fixture into the hole in the ceiling, and push aside so it rests on the ceiling floor. Make electrical connections inside the electrical box by connecting white wires to white wires and black to black.

6. Position light fixture into place, and reattach clips or springs to hold the canister in place. Snap decorative trim into place and screw in bulb. Turn power back on at the circuit panel, and test to assure the light works.

Tags: light fixture, circuit tester, circuit tester make, decorative trim, fixture into

Replace A Chain Pull On A Ceiling Fan

The chain pulls on ceiling fans are easy to replace. Often, the chain included in the package with the fan kit is too short for anyone to reach except basketball players. Besides a desire to lengthen the chain, you also might want to replace the plain design with a more decorative fan pull. The replacement process is the same since the only difference in decorative and plain chain pulls is the piece on the end. Follow these simple steps to change the chain pull on your ceiling fan in less than five minutes.

Instructions

1. Turn the ceiling fan off at the light switch.

2. Follow the chain pull from the bottom until you reach the joining bead.

3. Pull the top bead in bottom half of the chain up from the bottom of the joint bead to the center.

4. Pull the top bead in the bottom half of the chain through the center of the joint bead.

5. Put the last bead in the new chain into the center of the joint bead and slide it down to the bottom until it clicks into place.

Tags: joint bead, bead bottom, bead bottom half, bottom half, bottom half chain

Measure Your Own Suspended Ceiling

A suspended, or dropped, ceiling is a full ceiling that is built beneath the actual ceiling of a building. Many office buildings have suspended ceilings, for example, and place heating and air-conditioning ductwork in the space between the two ceilings. Measure a suspended type of ceiling as you would an actual ceiling, but also measure between the two ceilings if you need to place ductwork or electrical elements there.

Instructions

1. Measure the length of the suspended ceiling. Place a tape measure, yardstick, meter stick or other type of measuring device at one end of the ceiling and measure across to the other side.

2. Measure the width of your suspended ceiling. Place your measuring instrument at the other end of your ceiling and measure across to the other side. You could also measure the ceiling by measuring the walls that connect to it.

3. Find the distance between the suspended ceiling and the actual ceiling above it. This will require you to remove one of the ceiling tiles and may require the use of a ladder. Typically, this distance is about 1 foot, though it could be more or less depending on the type of building (for example, a home versus an office building or retail space). You may need to know this information if you're planning to have ductwork installed.

4. Multiply the length by the width of your suspended ceiling to find its square footage. This is useful if you are planning to replace tiles with those of a different size. Estimate how many ceiling tiles you will need (if your tiles aren't 1 square foot in size) by dividing the width of your ceiling by the width of the tiles. Next, divide the length of your ceiling by the length of the tiles. This will give you an indication of how many rows and columns of tiles you would need to purchase. Tiles placed near the point where your ceiling meets the wall likely will have to be cut to fit. You may also need square footage information if you're painting the ceiling and need to calculate how much paint to buy.

5. Find the square footage of a suspended ceiling that is not rectangular by diving it into smaller shapes and calculating the square footage of those shapes. For example, if your room (and by association, your ceiling) is "L" shaped, you can break that shape down into two rectangles. Measure the length and width of each rectangular portion of the ceiling and multiply those dimensions to find the square footage. Add the square footage calculations for each section together to find the total square footage of your ceiling.

Tags: square footage, your ceiling, actual ceiling, suspended ceiling, width your, across other

What Are The Different Types Of Ceiling Materials

An attractive ceiling can make a big impact on the look and feel of a room.

Choosing a ceiling material means deciding between aesthetic appeal and practical functionality. It is often about balancing the two. Strictly speaking, a ceiling could be made out of almost any type of material, but the types of materials that are most commonly used are those that are cost effective and practical. Each has its pros and cons when it comes to visual appeal and work capacity.

Drywall

Buildings commonly use it for the walls, but ceilings employ drywall material in the form of tiles. Drywall is a material composed of a naturally occurring mineral called gypsum. The benefits of using drywall are that it is water resistant and is resistant to fire. Since drywall resists water so well, it is good practice to use a grid system with drywall ceiling tiles in order to check for any hidden water damage. Its fire resistance retards the spread of fire within a building. Drywall also has cosmetic benefits and comes in a variety of textures.

Lumber

Wood ceiling materials offer another option with a more rustic appeal. Most wooden ceiling materials are made of pine and are a light brown color, but they can also be stained or painted. Often, the wood has tongue and groove patterns that allow the materials to fit tightly next to one another. This creates the illusion that the ceiling finish is more complete throughout the room. It is important to check local codes on ceiling construction before using lumber to construct a ceiling. Some jurisdictions might require that drywall be placed behind the lumber ceiling materials to make the ceiling more fire resistant.

Acoustical Material

Acoustical ceiling materials are a good option if noise reduction is a priority in a house or other building. The acoustical materials absorb sound and are usually composed of a fiberglass and starch blend, but may also consist of other spun mineral fibers. Some acoustical ceiling materials are made of wood fibers, but this type of material is not practical in humid climates. Noise reducing tiles come in a variety of types that offer different sound protection qualities. These differences impact the price of the ceiling materials and should be considered when making a purchase.

Other Kinds of Ceiling Materials

There are many other kinds of materials used for ceilings, each of which presents different benefits. A more cost effective option is to use plastic tiles. Plastic is inexpensive to produce, and therefore inexpensive for the consumer to purchase. Metal, such as tin or copper, are also viable materials to use in a ceiling. One disadvantage of a metal ceiling is that is more difficult to cut. Cork is another option to use for ceilings. It is environmentally friendly and easy to install.

Tags: ceiling materials, another option, ceiling materials, ceiling materials made, cost effective

Diy Rope Light Tray Designs

If you have a room that is a little drab or in need of a little pizzazz, some decorative lighting just might do the trick. You need not spend much money to give the room a little something. With a DIY approach to rope light tray designs, you will discover just the right look for your room.

Start with an Angled Brace

Cut a 45-degree angle into lengths of 2-by-4 inch boards on your table saw. Run the boards through your table saw to cut off one corner, and then flip over the board and do the same with another corner. Cut the board in half, so you will be left with two angled braces. Continue making these braces until you have enough to go around the exterior of the room.

Mount the Braces to the Wall

Decide the height where you wish to mount your angled braces for the DIY rope light tray designs. Use wood nails to secure the angled braces all the way around the room at the height you have chosen. The angled braces will form the tray upon which your rope lights will rest.

Mount Crown Molding to the Angled Braces

Attach the crown molding to the angled braced with finish nails. The bottom of the crown molding should touch the wall and the top, thanks to the angled braces, should be angled away from the wall.

Install the Rope Lighting

Lay the rope lighting on top of the angled braces. Because they will be hidden behind the crown molding, they will only appear as a soft muted light around the top of the room, giving the room an illusion of added height.

Tip

Stain or paint the crown molding to match the rest of the room's decor and molding. Fill any nail holes with wood filler before painting.

Rope Lighting

Since you are working with rope lighting, it is a good idea to consider the various types of rope lighting available. The basic or least-expensive style of rope lighting is incandescent. This can come in different wattages. The downside is that incandescent rope lighting does not last as long as other forms of rope lighting and can run hotter as well. While LED rope lighting is more expensive, it does have the advantage of not only running cooler but requiring less electricity to run. The cost up-front will be balanced out by the savings in the cost of the electricity it will take to power them. The actual installation of the rope lighting should also be considered. For safety sake, installing a dedicated plug in the ceiling near the tray for the rope lighting or in the tray itself not only allows your DIY rope lighting tray designs to conform to code, but allows the house's future owner to remove or install other lighting should he wish.

Tags: angled braces, rope lighting, rope lighting, crown molding, tray designs, around room

Ideas For Tropical Bedroom

Create the relaxing feeling of a tropical retreat in your bedroom.

If you would like to get away, but can't afford to right now, an alternative is to decorate your bedroom as a tropical oasis. This theme can help you feel relaxed and on your own private getaway. With a little paint, fabric and well-chosen accessories, you will be well on your way to creating your tropical bedroom.

Paint and Wall Treatments

Start your room with a fresh coat of paint. Baby blue or turquoise works well in a bedroom tropical theme. Choose a neutral color instead if you will incorporate a lot of bright accessories and you want them to contrast with the wall color. Add beadboard or wainscoting for a beach house feel. A themed border, wallpaper or tapestry quickly sets the tone for your tropical bedroom.

Floors

Tropical bedrooms work well along with natural materials such as hardwood floors. Bamboo is an ideal and natural option. Tile is a practical choice if your room is near the water. For an inexpensive alternative, incorporate bamboo rugs.

Fabric

Place mosquito netting around your bed for an authentic touch. Attach muslin in panels around a four-post bed to make your own version of a tropical cabana. Add sheer curtains over your windows. Use a solid-color print for your bedding.

Bed

Cut plywood in the shape of a large palm tree. Paint it and nail behind your bed for a customized headboard. Another option is to paint stencils of palm leaves on the plywood. You can also add a luxurious touch by attaching bright orange and turquoise padded panels to your headboard. A bright turquoise bed frame works well with the theme.

Other Furniture

Paint small furniture items, such as end tables, an entertainment stand or a dresser in blue or green shades. Distress the pieces by using sand paper or tapping on the pieces with a small hammer. Incorporate strips of bamboo to cover an armoire. Make your own tiki hut for a lounge or small bar in your home.

Accessories

Add accessories to complete the look. Place bamboo place mats in a frame for a textured look. Sea stars become a focal point in a shadow box. A palm leaf ceiling fan provides a functional and aesthetically pleasing feature. Trim a side table with small seashells. Put a small tree in the corner of your room or add large palm leaves to the wall. Bring in an aquarium with colorful fish. Hang beach or island theme pictures or canvas. Tack paper fans and decorative coconuts and pineapples to the wall. Attach bamboo blinds to the windows. Place a tropical-themed lamp on the bedside table. Hang a colorful surfboard on the wall.

Tags: your room, bedroom tropical, large palm, palm leaves, with small

Replace Interior Paneling On A Travel Trailer

You can replace your own interior paneling.

Replacing your travel trailer's paneling is fairly easy, since motorhome walls are built much the same as house walls are.

Instructions

1. Remove your present wall covering in your travel trailer. Note that if it is manufacturer installed, it will be custom wall paneling made for your particular motorhome. Previously remodeled travel trailers may use other materials. Use a crowbar or other pry bar to pull all the paneling off. Remove any remaining staples or nails as well.

2. Inspect the wall interior while your paneling is removed. Seal any visible water leaks, which may appear around windows or doors.

3. Replace any damaged or old foam insulation that lies beneath the wall paneling in your now-exposed stud walls. Use either similar styrofoam insulatio, or even expanding foam insulation, especially around windows. Cut styrofoam to size, spread with adhesive and fit into place. Spray foam into area, alternately, following the product instructions. Avoid over-filling with expanding foam; cut away excess, if needed, after it dries.

4. Measure your wall lengths and purchase new RV interior paneling accordingly. Divide your measurements by panel dimensions to estimate what you will need, buying an extra sheet or two to allow for mistakes.

5. Spread adhesive on the back of each wall paneling then set into place against the wall. Determine where your studs are, noting approximately as you put a panel into place and pressing with your hand to feel the harder areas. Nail paneling into place at the studs to secure further.

6. Measure areas where you cannot use a full sheet of paneling. Mark any objects such as windows or receptacles on the back of your paneling, then use a circular saw to cut to fit. Continue until interior is complete.

Tags: into place, wall paneling, around windows, expanding foam, foam insulation

Rv Interior Cleaning

Cleaning an RV is faster than cleaning a conventional house.

The bad news about living in an RV, even if temporarily, is that the small living quarters are easily soiled from daily activities. The good news is that because RVs are small, cleaning accumulated dirt and grime will take just minutes. Prevention of dirt accumulation through the use of door mats, removing shoes before entering, and practicing tidy habits will go a long way toward keeping your RV interior clean and your sanity intact.

Instructions

Preparing to Clean

1. Pour an environmentally friendly cleanser that won't harm septic systems or the environment, into a spray bottle. You can purchase a biodegradable cleanser or make one using 75 percent water and 25 percent white vinegar. Although you may need a stronger grease-cutting solution for extremely dirty surfaces, this simple solution works fine for most jobs.

2. Gather simple cleaning tools. An old toothbrush can be used to carefully clean screens and corners. A small hand-held vacuum is usually enough to clean a small RV's interior carpets. Use reusable cloths for dirty surfaces, and disposable disinfectant wipes to clean inside the bathroom.

3. Allow at least 20 minutes for thoroughly cleaning the RVs interior if you have been practicing clean habits. For extremely dirty RVs, cleaning may take at least an hour.

Work Your Way Down

4. Begin a thorough cleaning by removing your ceiling vent screens. Hold fans over the kitchen sink, and scrape dirt off with the old toothbrush. Then, spray cleanser onto the fan blades and wipe with a clean towel.

5. Vacuum window screens with a brush attachment, using care to pick up dirt in the window sills. Wipe screens with a clean towel dampened with your cleanser.

6. Spray vinegar and water solution onto windows and wipe with a clean, lint-free cloth. This simple solution is an effective window cleanser and eliminates the need for carrying additional cleaning products.

Dust and Disinfect

7. Wipe down kitchen and living room surfaces, range hood and walls around the cooking area. Cabinet door exteriors should also be cleaned. Don't forget to reach overhead and clean the ceiling directly above the stove. If you have a carpeted ceiling, gently run a lint roller overhead to collect grease without embedding it into the ceiling.

8. Disinfect the refrigerator interior with your vinegar and water solution, using care to wipe around the door seals.

9. Vacuum floors with your hand-held vacuum. Look for stains in the carpet that may get worse over time, and scrub with a general purpose cleaner applied to a brush. Stronger cleansers may be required if stains aren't easily removed.

10. Clean the RV bathroom's toilet and then floor using disposable disinfectant wipes. These are especially handy when dry camping and water reserves are low. Apply a simple solution of baking soda and vinegar to the shower area and sink. Let sit for 10 minutes, then lightly scrub using a brush or rough cleaning towel.

11. Dust inside the bedroom, the cockpit driving area if your RV has one, and anywhere else where dirt might have collected. Dust sensitive electronic equipment with a microfiber towel.

12. Finally, relax, sit back and enjoy your RV that you just cleaned in less than half the time it would have taken you to spruce up a traditional house interior.

Tags: simple solution, with clean, with your, clean towel, dirty surfaces

Hang A Pot Rack From A Vaulted Ceiling

Pot rack hanging from ceiling above window

Overhead pot racks are a good way to store pots and pans if your kitchen cabinet space is limited. These racks work particularly well in kitchens with tall or vaulted ceilings, since they allow these often unused spaces to be utilized. Mounting a pot rack to a ceiling does require a little bit of investigation: You will need to mount the support hooks into ceiling joists so that the weight of the items on the rack do not pull the hooks out of the ceiling.

Instructions

1. Measure the size of the pot rack at its mounting point locations. Cut out a piece of cardboard to this size with the mounting point locations clearly marked.

2. Place a tall ladder under the area where you want to mount the pot rack. Position the cardboard flat against the ceiling and mark the mounting position locations in pencil. Move a stud finder around or near the locations of each mark and draw a small X where each ceiling joist is found.

3. Adjust the location of the pot rack by moving the cardboard so that the mounting positions are over the ceiling joists. Mark your corrected location.

4. Screw heavy-duty screw eyes into the ceiling joists at the mounting position locations. Turn the screw eyes until they are fully seated in the joist and tight to the ceiling.

5. Attach a lockable link to each screw eye. This link has a screw closure that allows you to attach the link to both the screw eye and chain before closing the link.

6. Hang the pot rack by attaching the chains to the lockable link. Use a level on the top of the pot rack to adjust the level of the rack. Once the rack is level, screw the locks closed on the links and clip off any extra chain.

Tags: ceiling joists, into ceiling, into ceiling joists, level rack, lockable link, mounting point

Build An Armstrong Ceiling

Using Armstrong ceiling tiles to cover an unsightly ceiling is a practical way to fix the problem. Installation is simple for a do-it-yourselfer with moderate skills. With the wide variety of Armstrong ceiling tiles available on the market today, you don't have to settle for plain white tiles. Many textures and colors are available to suit any decor. You need at least 3 inches of clearance between the ceiling joists and the ceiling tile frame so you can slip the tiles into the frame.

Instructions

1. Locate the joists in the ceiling with a stud finder. Mark the center of each joist with a chalk line. Most joists are 16 inches on center. If the joists are exposed, skip this step.

2. Measure the length of one of the ceiling tiles in feet. Measure the room perpendicular to the joists in feet. Divide the room's measurement by the length of the tile. If there is a remainder, divide that amount by 2. This amount is the width of the border panels. By putting two narrow rows on the outside of the room, the ceiling has a balanced look.

3. Calculate the width of a ceiling tile in feet. Measure the room parallel to the ceiling joists. Divide that amount by the tile's width. If there's a remainder, divide it by 2 to find the size of the two outer rows for this portion of the ceiling.

4. Make a level line around the perimeter of the room at the height where you plan to install the ceiling with a laser or carpenter's level. Mark the line with chalk.

5. Set perimeter molding so the bottom of the molding rest on the line you marked on the wall. Attach perimeter molding to the wall studs with nails. Take care not to damage the molding as you drive the nails into position.

6. Snap a chalk line perpendicular to the ceiling joists, following the measurements you determined in Step 2. This is where you will hang the main runners for the suspended ceiling.

7. Attach wire fasteners to the ceiling joists every 4 feet along the chalk lines you snapped perpendicular to the joists. Insert hanger wire into the eye of each wire fastener and twist the wire three times around itself to secure it in place.

8. Stretch three or four strings across the room perpendicular to the ceiling joists from the perimeter molding. Keep the string taut as you secure it. The string is your guideline for the ceiling's height as you install the main runners.

9. Set a piece of main runner onto the perimeter molding and use the chalk line on the joists as your guide. Insert a hanger wire into the hole in the main runner to suspend the runner from the ceiling. Twist the wire onto itself three times to secure it in place. Continue to work your way across the room, securing wires at 4-foot intervals. Keep the main runners aligned with your string guide. Add another piece of main runner, as necessary, by sliding the two pieces together and securing their locking system. Cut any excess off the main runner on the opposite side of the room with a pair of tin snips.

10. Place the remaining main runners in place by following the joist markings. Set any ends you cut into the perimeter molding.

11. Measure the distance for the first cross tee, according to your calculations from Step 3. Hook the cross tee into position on the main runners. Complete that row in a similar manner by crossing main runners at right angles. Set the next row of cross tees at the width of the ceiling tiles. Continue placing all of the cross tees into the main runners.

12. Tilt and insert a ceiling tile into one of the center openings on the ceiling grid. Set the tile into position. Repeat for three adjacent tiles in the center openings. If the grid is slightly off-center, shake it slightly until all four of the tiles settle into their slots.

13. Place all of the remaining ceiling tiles. Cut tiles along the outer perimeter to fit with a utility knife.

Tags: main runners, ceiling joists, ceiling tiles, perimeter molding, main runner

Make Beaded Chain Ceiling Fan Pulls

Decorate the chain pull of your ceiling fan.

While ceiling fan pull chains serve mostly to turn on and adjust the speed of a ceiling fan or the lights in the fan, ceiling fan pulls also allow you an opportunity to add an extra touch of personality and decor to your home. A simple and tasteful way to make your fan pull decorative is to make a custom beaded chain fan pull for your ceiling fan.

Instructions

1. Attach a ball chain connector to each end of your ball chain. If your ceiling fan's ball chain already has a connector on its pull, you need only one connector.

2. Twist the very end of your 15-gauge wire stock into a circle about the same size as one of the balls on the ball chain. Slip it into the connector in the open middle and slide it into the slit on the end, just as you would with a ball on the chain.

3. Bend the remaining section of wire into a shape or even a letter, with the pliers. Make the shape wider than the opening of the beads you are using. This decorative wire piece serves not only as an ornament for your pull, but also as a stopper to keep beads from slipping off.

4. Slide beads onto the other end of the chain in any order you like. Fill the entire chain with beads or place only a few beads for a splash of color. Leave at least four balls on the end that are not covered in beads so that you can easily connect the pull to your ceiling fan.

5. Connect your ball chain with the pull on your ceiling fan by using the ball chain connector on your strand or on the existing pull.

Tags: ball chain, your ceiling, pull your, pull your ceiling, ball chain connector, chain connector

Decorate A Home With Stained Wooden Ceilings

Wood ceilings can give a room a warm, organic look when balanced out properly. No matter what style a home is, stained wood ceilings complement different colors and accents around a room. If you have a room with wooden ceilings and you aren't sure what to do with it, there are plenty of solutions that you can do that bring out your personality in the space. While some may not find wood ceilings warm and inviting, they can be elegant and appealing when you balance out the material around the room.

Instructions

1. Choose a wall paint that complements the wood tones. Stained ceilings are often darker rather than lighter, so opt for a warm, inviting paint shades like pale red, yellow, mint or taupe.

2. Balance out the space by using flooring materials that are opposite of your wood ceiling. For dark ceilings, go with a lighter wood or carpeting. Choose a warm, natural stone to complement the organic ceiling. If your ceiling is light, go with a medium wood floor or neutral carpet.

3. Pick furniture for the room that balances out the ceiling. For dark wood ceilings, white or cream sofas or chairs keep the room looking open and spacious. With lighter ceilings, choose furniture in a darker, yet neutral, palette to keep the space from looking washed out. Earth tones pair well with wood since they are all natural colors.

4. Lighten up the space by keeping window treatments airy. Choose a light cotton or linen curtain to cover windows. The light fabric will offer privacy, but still allow natural light to warm up the room and brighten wood-stained ceilings.

Tags: wood ceilings, around room, ceiling dark, warm inviting

Pick The Best Kitchen Light Fixture

Lighting in the kitchen depends largely on individual taste.

Your kitchen is likely one of the most used and occupied spaces in your entire home. In addition, many activities take place in your kitchen, such as chopping, peeling, mixing, baking, boiling and general meal preparation. These activities take concentration, but they also require adequate lighting. The best light fixtures for your kitchen should be a mix of form and function, meaning they should look nice and illuminate key areas.

Instructions

1. Figure out which type of light fixture you want to achieve direct lighting, which is responsible for lighting up the majority of the kitchen. The options are multiple recessed lights or several light fixtures installed in a row. A ceiling fan in the center of the kitchen can also include light fixtures that provide direct light.

2. Check out the light fixtures in person. Unless you're using recessed lighting, the light fixtures you choose will need to match the d cor of your kitchen. For example, a wooden ceiling fan with bronze fixtures would look better with a more traditional style kitchen rather than a modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances.

3. Hide some light fixtures to achieve a look of indirect light. Indirect light is more decorative, rather than functional, and will give your kitchen a warm glow. These light fixtures can be concealed underneath your cabinets, on top of cabinets or within soffits, suggests the website Ask the Builder.

4. Use track lighting in areas where tasks require more light. Task lights are brighter and light up a space effectively. Areas that would benefit from task lighting include the oven, center island or kitchen sink.

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Repair Joints In A Drywall Ceiling

As your house shifts and settles, cracks can appear along the joints where the drywall sheets meet. In addition, roofs constructed with manufactured trusses often expand and contract, resulting in cracks along drywall joints. Repairing the joint on a flat ceiling is a simple process you can take on yourself if you're handy around the house.

Instructions

1. Hold the straight edge just outside the damaged joint on each side and make a shallow cut into the ceiling, about 1/8" deep and as long as the damaged area. Cut as straight as possible, making a strip with the joint in the middle.

2. Peel the old tape and dry mud out of the strip, taking care not to peel away adjacent areas of the ceiling. Your joint is now ready for taping.

3. Cut a piece of drywall tape approximately 1" shorter than the length of your joint. The tape reinforces the new joint, but cutting it short ensures that there will be no telltale end pieces sticking out.

4. Spread prepared drywall mud into the open seam, making sure to press it deeply into the crack using the drywall knife.

5. Position the drywall tape on top of the wet mud, smoothing it from the center outwards, towards each end, carefully, removing any bubbles but not applying so much force that the tape slides along the mud.

6. Smooth the tape and the drywall with large continuous arm movements, pulling the wide blade along the seam and removing excess mud. This is a very important step because any excess mud left on the ceiling creates additional sanding time later.

7. Allow the first coat of drywall mud to dry totally before applying a very thin second and third coat of mud. The drying time for drywall mud varies by brand with some varieties, called hot mud, drying within an hour. Regular drywall mud, however, needs a few hours in a dry climate to dry entirely. It's important to allow it to dry totally before applying subsequent coats.

8. Sand any rough spots on your dried joint and you're ready to paint your repaired portion of the ceiling.

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Make A Toy Train Track Suspended From A Ceiling

No room for a model railroad? The answer may be over your head.

Many toy train collectors and model railroad enthusiasts lack the space needed in a basement or garage to build a permanent layout for running their trains. Even a compact, portable model train table may require more room than is available in the average-sized house or condominium, forcing many would-be modelers to relegate their prized collections to static display cases. For a creative solution to get the trains off the shelves and running on the track, just look up to the ceiling.

Make A Thomas The Tank Engine Halloween Costume At Home

Thomas the Train is from the popular TV show.

Bring Thomas the Tank Engine to life with a homemade Halloween costume featuring this blue train. Most young children are familiar with the television series that showcases Thomas the Tank Engine, and boys especially enjoy the model train from the TV show. Make your Thomas fan a train costume he will wear for play time for years past the trick-or-treating holiday. Find items to use in your recycling bin to make this costume at home. Use a Thomas toy train out of your child's toy box for a model as you recreate this character.

Instructions

1. Draw the outline of the side image of the train on one sheet of poster board, using the photo of Thomas the Train as a guide. Cut out the image, trace the train on the other sheet of poster board and cut out the second side. Lay the images on a flat surface so one side is pointed in the opposite direction of the other, as if the train had been flattened from the front end and the sides extended to the right and left. You want to have the exterior panels facing you to paint them.

2. Follow the guide in the photo and draw the details on each side of the train. Include a yellow number one and three wheels on both panels of the train. Paint the main portion of the train blue on the poster board cut-outs, as well as the front and back panels of the cardboard box. Paint the cylinder piece used for the stovepipe black. Paint the plate gray and add facial details including eyes, a nose and mouth in a cheerful expression.

3. Cut the flaps from the box bottom, and cut through the center of the flaps in the top of the box to make a place for your child to stand up in the costume. Glue the side panels to the sides of the box with the hot glue gun. Use the hot glue to attach the face plate on the front end of the box. Add hot glue to the stovepipe and attach to the top of the box on the panel closest to the end with the train's face.

4. Place the costume over your child and determine where the shoulder straps will rest. Glue the straps to the inside of the top of the box in the front and back of your child, so the costume sits on both shoulders.

Tags: your child, poster board, Tank Engine, Thomas Tank, Thomas Tank Engine

Drop Ceilings

About Drop Ceilings

Drop ceilings are also known as dropped ceilings, false ceilings or suspended ceilings. They were originally created to hide the floor and fixtures above a room and to provide acoustic control. Drop ceilings are installed at a height lower than the actual ceiling in a room. They are popular for their ease of installation, modification and versatility.