Install Paintable Wallpaper On A Ceiling

Hanging wallpaper can be a time-consuming task.

Applying paintable wallpaper can be a somewhat demanding task, but it can add a lot of value to your home and open up decor possibilities. With planning and organization, you can make the process much easier. Paintable wallpaper is installed just like any ordinary wallpaper, and it is perfect for covering problem areas, particularly when it is textured. It offers versatility and design options, as it can be painted with any color or type of paint once it dries. Paintable wallpaper can cover cracks and water stains, while introducing new color to a room.

Instructions

1. Prepare the ceiling by removing any irregularities and filling cracks. Brush away dirt, cobwebs and dust and eliminate paint flakes. Apply spackle to significant cracks and be sure to finish with a smooth and even surface. Small cracks should not be a concern. If there are any ceiling light fixtures, unplug them and remove the shade and bulb.

2. Measure the length of the ceiling with a tape measure, and add 6 inches to the length for overhang.

3. Cut the first wallpaper strip to the length you have determined, using a tape measure and razor or X-Acto knife to cut a straight edge. Cut all the other pieces, making sure to match each strip with the previous pattern to keep the appearance consistent. Keep the pieces in order and number them if necessary.

4. Soak the wallpaper in a tray of water if it is the prepasted type. Follow manufacturer instructions and let it relax for five to 10 minutes prior to application.

5. Mix adhesive according to manufacturer instructions, if you are using non-pasted wallpaper. Lay the first piece down on a table and apply adhesive to one side, using a paint roller. To keep the adhesive moist, fold it into a series of pleats. At each pleat, the adhesive side of the paper should be touching the adjacent section's adhesive side. Some adhesives require a few minutes to set before applying to the wall. Follow the instructions accompanying the adhesive.

6. Apply some adhesive to the edge of the ceiling before applying each piece.

7. Hold the wallpaper in one hand while carefully brushing it into place with a wallpaper brush in your other hand. Make sure to hold the folded wallpaper close to the ceiling to prevent drag. Another person can be a great help in this process.

8. Roll over the seams of the paper with a seam roller so that the edges stick, unless you are working with embossed paper. In this case, dab the seams with a cloth.

9. Paint the paper with a roller once it has completely dried. You can use any standard interior latex or oil-based paint on most paintable wallpaper.

Tags: adhesive side, before applying, manufacturer instructions, Paintable wallpaper, paper with, tape measure

Install A Wood Box Beam

box beams look real

Timbers are a great way to add visual appeal and beauty to any room. Wood Box Beams or False Beams are lighter weight and easier to install. This is fairly easy to do and doesn't take long.

Instructions

1. First measure the room and decide the spacing of the box beam timbers. Remember to take into account all obstacles, lights, vents, etc. Make small pencil marks on the ceiling the width of the inside of the box beam. Measure the length of the beam locations, minus 1/8" and cut the 2x2 lumber. Attach the 2x2 by anchoring them to the drywall or ceiling joists if you can. Make sure you put them on the INSIDE of the lines so the beam will be able to fit over them later. I used a staple gun and screws to attach the strips. Be sure they are secure with no movement.

2. Now cut the box beams to the exact length needed. Remember to figure for any angle or unsquareness. Get the grinder out. Grind the ends of the beams to fit against the drywall perfectly.

3. Carefully lift the beams into place and use a finish nailer to attach the box beam to the 2x2 strips. Be careful not to damage the painted wall. If it doesn't fit perfectly the first time don't force it, do a little more grinding to the false beam as necessary.

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Ideas For Creative Home Ceiling Finishes

Historically, ceilings were elaborately decorated.

Ceilings are often overlooked by home decorating enthusiasts. Builders paint them basic white, and homeowners leave them that way---focusing instead on walls, floors, cabinetry and furnishings. Historically, this was not the case. Grand residences had ceilings decorated with molding, murals, gilt and carving. Palaces, churches and public buildings had all of those, plus elaborate domes of intricate stained glass. While adding a dome might not be feasible, there are plenty of creative ceiling ideas that don't require major construction.

Kaleidoscope Patterns

Mimic the look of those intricate stained-glass domes with paint. Look through a kaleidoscope for endless unique pattern ideas. When you've settled on a pattern, draw the design on paper. Use an overhead projector to enlarge and project the design onto your ceiling. Trace the pattern with a pencil, and then paint. This isn't a quick project, but it's breathtaking once complete. Consider hanging a chandelier from the center point of your design.

Sunbursts

If you have a chandelier hanging in the center of your room, try painting a sunburst that radiates out from it. Use painter's masking tape to mark your lines. Lines can be thick or thin. Let the paint dry between each color, and use new masking tape over previously painted areas to keep your lines straight. Unless you want the room to look like a circus tent---and in a child's room, you might---limit the number of colors you use and avoid high contrast. Analogous colors, colors next to each other on a color wheel, work best if you aren't using neutrals.

Metallic Finishes

Warm up your room with metallic faux finishes that make your ceiling look like copper, gold, bronze or steel. Paint and home-improvement stores sell kits to make the process easier. If your ceiling is coffered, faux-finish the panels inside the molding. Otherwise, paint your ceiling to look like a single expanse of metal.

Murals

Ceiling murals are classic decoration. Historically, they were painted by the most revered artists of their times. Michelangelo's paintings in the Sistine Chapel are some of the most famous. If mimicking old-master style isn't right for your room, consider more contemporary scenes. Use your imagination. If you aren't gifted with artistic talent, hire a professional artist or a gifted university art student to paint your ceiling murals.

Geometric Patterns

Use painter's masking tape to create geometric designs. Paint your base coat, tape off your design, and then paint with your second color. Use crisp rectangles to mimic a coffered ceiling, or use a lattice pattern for something more casual. If you like modern design, try a Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired geometric pattern. Or, copy patterns from Eastern architecture for an exotic touch.

Tags: your ceiling, look like, masking tape, your room, ceiling look

Set Up Studio Monitor Speakers

Speaker placement has an effect on the way you hear your recordings on playback.

Figuring out set up studio monitor speakers is a matter of purchasing good near-field, or close-field, monitors and sizing up the space you will be using for a control room. Near-field monitors are essential for getting a proper mix of your recording because they represent the sound as it really is. They don't color the sound the way stereo speakers tend to do. To find good speakers, look at Internet reviews and test out a pair by playing a well-mixed CD over them. Everything should sound good at high and low volume without any rattles or buzzes.

Instructions

Speaker Placement

1. Set the speakers near the longest wall if your room is a rectangle. Speaker stands are preferable to setting them on the console. Avoid placing them directly against the wall.

2. Cut down on standing waves by avoiding putting the speakers at exactly the halfway point between the floor and ceiling and the front and back wall.

3. Find the most comfortable listening spot to place your chair.

4. Connect the speakers to the amplifier with speaker wires then play music over the speakers to determine the best spot for placement.

Acoustic Treatment

5. Glue about a meter of acoustic foam or use a soundproof blanket or curtains on the side walls to get a sound-dampening effect and get better stereo imaging.

6. Put a square meter of acoustic foam or a soundproof blanket on the wall behind the speakers.

7. Add a square meter of acoustic foam directly above the console if you have a low ceiling.

8. Hang a curtain or carpet a few inches from the wall behind your chair or glue a square meter of acoustic foam to the wall to add a sound-dampening effect.

Tags: acoustic foam, meter acoustic, meter acoustic foam, square meter, square meter acoustic

Take Photos That Sell Houses

Real estate listings with photos are more likely to grab someone's attention than listings without photos. Using photos to sell your house is a great way for potential buyers to view the house and property without having to visit the house in person. The photos are a great marketing tool and can literally sell your house for you if they are taken well.

Instructions

1. Prepare the property for the photo shoot. Mow your lawn and clean up debris. Clean the interior of the house including carpets, windows and walls. Take photos with the furniture still in your house. Potential buyers like to see how a room looks when it has furniture in it.

2. Take pictures of the outside of the house. Make sure you get a wide shot of the house and yard from the front and from the back. Take photos of good selling points such as garages, shops, porches or water features.

3. Capture the style of the kitchen in your photos. Be sure to include appliances and cabinets in these photos.

4. Photograph the main living areas such as the living room, den or family room. Include any special features in the photos, especially ceiling fans, fireplaces and windows.

5. Take photos of each bedroom along with their closets. Open the closet doors for walk in closets to try and capture their size in the photo.

6. Take photos of all the bathrooms. Include all the fixtures and cabinets in the pictures.

Tags: Take photos, your house, sell your, sell your house

Use Kilz White Primer Paint On A Popcorn Ceiling

According to the manufacturer, Kilz original white primer is safe for painting on a variety of surfaces, including painted metal, wallpaper, paneling and masonry. The primer works effectively on dusty surfaces, like plaster and drywall. When painting popcorn ceilings, use the white primer paint and give the ceiling an even coating before applying paint.

Preparing the Surface

Before applying the white primer, you must clean away any dust or debris from the ceiling. If you skip cleaning the ceiling, then you risk moving the dust and debris around the ceiling and creating more bumps and streaks. Dust the ceiling and wash with a mildew cleaner, if you see signs of mildew or tri-sodium phosphate. Rub a soft cloth over the ceiling and let air dry overnight. Use caution when rubbing the ceiling to reduce the risk of pulling off the texture.

Applying the Primer

Kilz recommends working in an area that is cooler than 90 degrees Fahrenheit, but warmer than 35 degrees. Dip a paint stirrer into the primer and give the liquid a quick stir that mixes the primer. Cover the walls and any moldings with masking tape, which keeps the primer from transferring onto those areas. Dip a paintbrush into the primer and work from the outside edges towards the center of the room. Avoid using a paint roller, as the roller might break the popcorn surfaces away from the ceiling or flatten those areas. Wait at least 30 minutes or until the primer completely dries before applying your paint.

Considerations

If you paint your ceiling any color other than white, then consider tinting the white primer. Kilz original white primer takes almost any color tint, which deepens your paint color. For darker shades, including burgundy, red, dark blue and dark green, ask the paint store for a tinted primer. The store adds a small amount of color, which gives the white primer a deeper shade. When you paint the color on your ceiling, it helps darken the paint color and make it look more true to life.

Warning

Do not apply primer to a popcorn ceiling, if the ceiling contains asbestos. Prior to the 1970's, contractors used asbestos for a construction material both inside and outside the house. Painting and priming an asbestos ceiling may result in asbestos spores moving through your house and making you or your family sick. Hire a professional and remove the asbestos texture from the ceiling.

Tags: white primer, from ceiling, paint color, dust debris, into primer, Kilz original

Set Up A Yamaha Surround Sound System

Setting up a Yamaha surround system revolves around YPAO.

Yamaha is one of the few companies that makes the instruments that eventually get played back on one of its audio systems. A maker of home theater gear from inception, Yamaha now makes receivers that set up via an automated process called YPAO (Yamaha Parametric Room Acoustic Optimizer). This system quickens the calibration and equalization process, setting and saving these calibrated settings in memory. Although setting up the speakers in a Yamaha system is not unlike other surround systems, the YPAO setup is integral to getting the best results.

Instructions

1. Determine the wire lengths required for each speaker run from the receiver. Cut these lengths using the wire snips. Cut off a 1/2 inch of insulation from each end of all speaker runs using the wire stripper.

2. Twist up the binding posts on the rear of the Yamaha receiver. Insert the appropriate speaker wire into its respective terminal. Twist down the binding posts until the wires are secure.

3. Unscrew the binding posts on the speakers. Insert the other end of the wires coming from the receiver into the proper speaker. Screw down the posts to secure the wires.

4. Plug in the subwoofer cable from the "SUB" out on the rear panel of the Yamaha receiver. Route this cable to the "LFE" in on the rear of the subwoofer. Plug the sub into AC power, turn it on, then set the volume knob to the center position.

5. Insert the YPAO microphone into the front 3.5 mm jack labeled "MIC." "Press Enter to Start" appears on the display. Place the microphone on a camera tripod at ear level. Thread the YPAO mic onto the male threads on the tripod, with the mic pointing directly at the ceiling.

6. Press "Enter" on the Yamaha remote. Leave the measurement area to prevent causing interference with the microphone. Scroll down using the directional buttons on the receiver's remote until "Measurement" is displayed. Press "Enter" to begin the process.

7. Press "Enter" on the remote when the display reads "Select:Save." The receiver saves the acoustic measurements, and setup is complete.

Tags: Press Enter, binding posts, each speaker, from receiver, using wire, Yamaha receiver

Install A Ceiling Air Vent

Install a Ceiling Air Vent

One of the most common reasons for installing a ceiling vent is to add a vent fan in a bathroom, which is best done at the site of an existing light fixture. The same process applies if you're cutting in a vent to connect to duct work in the attic. Installing a vent in the ceiling is a project most homeowners can accomplish with the right tools and a moderate amount of expertise.

Instructions

1. Turn off the power to the ceiling light fixture. Remove the fixture by unscrewing it and disconnecting the wires from it, leaving just the electrical box in the ceiling. Go into the attic and remove the electrical box by removing the mounting screws that are holding it to the ceiling joist. Make sure you stand on the joists and not on the plaster or drywall of the ceiling. Pull up the electric wires that were connected to the fixture and set them aside.

2. While in the attic, lay your vent fan kit over the hole where the fixture was, with the square vent opening of the fan sitting on the surface of the plaster or drywall used for the ceiling. The vent should cover the hole completely. With your pencil, trace around the edge of the vent opening. Remove the unit and cut the vent hole using your jigsaw.

3. Set the unit back in place, with the vent opening over the hole so it faces down into the bathroom. Secure the unit to the two nearest ceiling joists with screws, using the mounting brackets that came with the kit. Take the end of the exhaust hose from the kit to the nearest flat exterior wall. Use your hole saw to cut a hole through the wall the same diameter as the hose, then mount the hose onto the wall over the hole with the screws that were provided with your kit.

4. Attach the unit to the electrical wires that came from the ceiling fixture according to the instructions with the kit. Generally, you'll be connecting the black and white wires from the circuit to black and white wires from the unit. To connect them, hold the two wires together pointing in the same direction, screw a wire nut over them and wrap the connection with electrician's tape. Take the bare copper grounding wire from the circuit, wrap it around the green grounding screw on the unit and tighten it.

5. Go back into the bathroom. Install the provided vent cover over the vent hole in the ceiling, using the screws in your kit. Turn the power back on.

Tags: over hole, vent opening, wires from, black white, black white wires, ceiling vent, from circuit

Hang A Large Chandelier

Large, heavy chandeliers require extra ceiling support.

Replacing a chandelier is a great way to update the appearance of a dining room. There are many styles, brands, sizes, and prices to choose from, even online. The hard part is deciding which one to purchase. The one thing to consider more than anything is the weight. Any fixture that weighs over 50 lbs. will need a stronger ceiling support.

Instructions

Remove Old Fixture

1. Shut off the circuit breaker or fuse box in the basement or utility room. Turn the wall switch on and off to make sure there's no power. Steady your ladder under the fixture. Remove all light bulbs and decorative fixtures.

2. Loosen the screws that hold the fixture to the electrical box. Lower the fixture to expose the wiring. Remove the wire connectors and test the wires to make sure they are dead. Pull the wires and take down the fixture.

3. Remove the electrical box by taking out the screws. Remove the cable by taking out the screw. Cut the metal hanger in half and remove. Climb into the attic and check that the support braces can support the new fixture.

Install Large Chandelier

4. Turn the brace by hand to the shortest length. Put the brace through the hole and set the feet flat on top of the drywall or plaster ceiling. Tighten the brace by hand until the prongs fit tight against the joists and tighten with an adjustable wrench.

5. Pry one of the knockout plugs off the electrical box. Hold the electrical box to the ceiling. Feed the cable through the connector and secure with the cable connector. Find the U-bolt flange and slip it over the brace. Put the support flange on the ends of the bolt and tighten the nuts on each side.

6. Push the electrical box into the ceiling and align the holes in the top of the box with the ends on the U-bolt. Secure with hex nuts. Tighten the nuts with a nut driver. Remove the fixtures from the chandelier. Shorten the wiring and chain to the height you wish it to hang. Twist the nipple-shaped part into the chain holder and then into the mounting bar.

7. Feed the chandelier wiring through the nipple. Raise the chandelier and attach the mounting bar to the electric box with screws provided. Wrap the copper ground wire around the ground screw and tighten. Attach the end of the wires to the ground wire. Strip away ½ inch of the protective covering from the wiring. Twist the white wire from chandelier to the white wire on the ceiling cable, and repeat the step with the black wires.

8. Fold the electrical wires and tuck them in the electrical box. Slide the canopy up the chain and push it tight to the ceiling. Check that the wires are tucked away. Push the retainer collar up the chandelier's chain into the holder. Twist the collar to secure the chandelier in place. Install light bulbs and decorative fixtures and restore the power.

Tags: brace hand, bulbs decorative, bulbs decorative fixtures, ceiling support, decorative fixtures

Pick The Size Of A Ceiling Fan

Ceiling fans can cool down a room significantly.

A ceiling fan can be a great investment for your home as it can serve as a very effective supplemental cooling system. Instead of turning on your whole-house air conditioning system when the weather starts to get too warm for comfort, you can turn on your ceiling fans to cool down designated areas of your home. However, not all rooms should feature the same size ceiling fans. The sizes of the blades determine the fan's cooling power, and the right size should be picked based on the dimensions of your room.

Instructions

1. Measure in inches the width and height of the room you plan to put the ceiling fan in.

2. Multiply the width by the height that you measured to get the room's square footage.

3. Choose the size of your ceiling fan based on the room's square footage. The product descriptions for ceiling fans will include the approximate square footage that they can cool. Generally, a 75-square-foot room will need a ceiling fan with at least a 36-inch blade. Up to 144 square feet will need a 36-inch to a 42-inch blade, and up to 225 square feet will require approximately a 44-inch blade. If your room is larger than that, fans with 50-inch to 54-inch blades are available.

4. Look for the type of mount that's right for the size of your room. For most rooms, a standard ceiling fan mount will be sufficient. However, if your ceilings are over 8 feet high, then you should pick a ceiling fan that includes an extended mount to ensure that the fan can adequately cool down your room.

Tags: your room, ceiling fans, cool down, square footage, blade square, blade square feet

Repair A Textured Ceiling & Drywall Seam

Textured ceilings and drywall seams can be tricky. Moisture damage and normal wear and tear can cause these areas to become brittle and tough to work with. The key is properly preparing the area for repair and using the right products to do the job.

Instructions

1. Remove the damaged area, being extremely careful not to go overboard. Popcorn ceilings and any other sprayed-on texture can be a never-ending ordeal if they start to deteriorate in one area and the situation spreads. If you're dealing with one pronounced bubble in the paint, you could wind up re-finishing the whole ceiling if you are not careful. Remove just as much as necessary, and do it carefully with your 5-in-1 putty knife.

Clear a damaged drywall seam of all damaged and degraded texture using both the 5-in-1 knife and a wire brush. Once all your damaged surface area is cleared away, use a dusting brush to clean the target areas.

2. Use the primer sealer on all damaged spots. Brush the bare spots and all around them onto the undamaged texture. The idea is to create a hard seal that will sustain the weight of new textured plaster.

3. Collect some textured plaster on your fat putty knife, and begin applying it to your ceiling and/or seam with the 5-in-1 knife. Try to match the existing surface if you can. If the pattern is simple and not too time consuming to duplicate, integrate a splash of primer/sealer into the texture plaster so it will dry sooner. Start on the outside edges of the damage to any ceiling area, and work toward the inside.

4. Once the plaster is spread and allowed to dry, it is not very likely to match up perfectly with the old surface. You will most likely have to paint over the entire surface of the ceiling or the whole wall where your seam is. Before you do, use primer/sealer on the whole area. For popcorn ceilings where rolling the paint on would just do further damage, use a big brush to gently coat the whole surface, and don't be afraid to chip off small bubbles if you can. Just don't let it turn into a huge project. The primer/sealer will actually go a long way in preventing further damage if you can apply it correctly without ripping down the whole ceiling.

5. To perfectly blend the textured look, use some textured paint over the repair area and across the whole wall or ceiling if necessary. Again if you're worried about the integrity of the surface, use a brush rather than a roller. If the surface is okay to use a roller on, use one with a thick nap designed for texture paint.

Tags: primer sealer, 5-in-1 knife, further damage, paint over, putty knife, some textured, textured plaster

Tell If You Have Asbestos Tiles

Tell If You Have Asbestos Tiles

Asbestos is a dangerous material that has been linked to cancer. Asbestos was banned in the 1970s, but homes built before then can still have asbestos tiles in them. You need to have asbestos professionally tested for and removed, since it is a highly dangerous substance, especially in powder form that can be inhaled into the lungs. If you suspect that your home has asbestos tiles in it, look for these warning signs and then contact a professional testing and removal company to get it out of your home.

Instructions

1. Consider the age of your home. If your home was built between 1900 and 1970 you should have your home tested, as there is a chance that it could contain asbestos tiles. You're most likely to find it in insulation, ceiling tiles and flooring. Homes built between 1930 and 1950 are at the greatest risk of containing asbestos.

2. Look for signs of wear on the tiles. Tiles in good condition carry little risk for asbestos contamination, but if you notice tiles that are cracked and emitting a powdery substance, call a removal professional right away.

3. Consider the size of the tiles and measure them. Asbestos tiles were commonly 9-by-9 inches and if you note that your tiles are that size, you should be wary of their asbestos content.

4. Contact a testing facility to come and take a sample of the material to discern chemically whether or not it is asbestos. Only a test can confirm if a material is truly asbestos. While you can look for warning signs, you can be sure with a lab test.

Tags: your home, asbestos tiles, built between, Have Asbestos Tiles, Tell Have, Tell Have Asbestos

Stop The Air Flow From A Ceiling Air Diffuser

A magnetic vent cover will seal out unwanted air flow.

A ceiling air diffuser will sometimes leak air even when it is closed. A magnetic vent cover will seal around the opening of the air diffuser to stop unwanted air flow. You will save money when you install a magnetic vent cover in a room you do not want to heat. The magnetic vent covers come in different sizes, such as 8 inch-by-15 inch, 5 inch-by-12 inch and 24 inch-by-30 inch. The covers can be cut to fit a custom size air diffuser.

Instructions

1. Measure the length and width of the air diffuser. Purchase the size needed at your local hardware store. If the hardware store does not carry the size you need, get the next size up.

2. Remove the air diffuser from the packaging. If necessary, transfer your measurements onto the magnetic vent cover. Using a straight edge, draw a straight line indicating the desired measurement.

3. Cut the magnetic vent cover, using scissors or a utility knife, on the measured lines. Place the magnetic vent cover over the air diffuser. The magnetic vent cover will seal around the air diffuser.

Tags: magnetic vent, magnetic vent cover, vent cover, cover will, cover will seal, vent cover will, will seal

Mount A Spotlight To A Ceiling

Kitchen spotlights are installed inside the ceiling.

Recessed spotlights in kitchens and other areas update the look of a home, creating aesthetic appeal through the vertical downward direction of the light source. With the fixtures themselves in the ceiling, nothing is hung from the ceiling that might create a cluttered feel. Choosing the position of a spotlight is important, and depends on the area of the kitchen that will be illuminated. Spotlight kits are readily available from most DIY or electrical stores.

Instructions

1. Mark the area on the kitchen ceiling where the spotlight will be installed, using a pencil. Run a stud finder across the ceiling's surface to ensure that no joists run above the marking. Position the spotlight kit's template on the ceiling at the mark, and run a pencil around the template to create a circle on the ceiling. Cut around the pencilled circle with a drywall saw or utility knife. Remove the circular section of ceiling drywall.

2. Run 14/2 electrical cable from a power source-usually an existing light switch unless you are installing a dedicated switch for the spotlight-through the ceiling to the location of the hole, pulling 16 inches of cable through the hole. Do not connect the wire to the power source. This process can be done with a fish wire, or directly if the attic lies above the kitchen. Strip off 8 inches of outer sheathing from the 14/2 cable using a utility knife. Cut off the loose sheathing with the knife. Strip off 3/8 inch of plastic coating from the ends of both the black and white wires, using wire strippers.

3. Unscrew and remove the cover on the spotlight's junction box, using a screwdriver. Insert the 8 inches of wire from the end of the electrical cable into the access hole in the side of the junction box. Tighten the clamp surrounding the access hole with the screwdriver to keep the wires in place. Hold the end of the spotlight's black wire to the incoming black wire, and screw on a wire nut. Do the same with the spotlight's white and ground wires, attaching them to the corresponding incoming white and ground wires. Replace the cover on the junction box.

4. Push the spotlight body up unto the ceiling hole so it is flush with the ceiling. Push out the four clips on the inside of the spotlight to secure the spotlight in place to the inside of the drywall.

5. Position the circular trim to the bottom of the spotlight so it rests against the ceiling. Pull each of the circular trim's coiled springs and attach them to the corresponding hooks on the inside of the spotlight. Screw a light bulb into the spotlight.

6. Call an electrician to hook up the end of the 14/2 cable to the existing power source, or to install and connect a dedicated switch for the spotlight.

Tags: access hole, area kitchen, black wire, circular trim, dedicated switch, electrical cable, ground wires

Box Ceiling Painting Ideas

One Strategy for Paining a Box Ceiling

A box ceiling, which is commonly referred to as a tray ceiling, is a special architectural feature. An area of the ceiling is recessed beyond the rest of the ceiling plane, typically in a square or rectangle, but sometimes a more decorative, elongated polygon. Box or tray ceilings are often used in dining rooms, foyers and bedrooms to accentuate a special space. Sometimes they highlight a light fixture or contain ornate molding.

There are several strategies to paint a box ceiling, each creating a completely different effect for the space.

Match the Wall Color

One of the more common strategies for painting box ceilings is to follow the simple rule that horizontal surfaces match (ceilings) and vertical surface match (walls). For example, if you painting your walls a forest green, you would paint the vertical plane of the recessed tray that same forest green. The ceiling of the box would be painted to match the rest of the ceiling in the room, which is most likely white. This strategy plays up the color of the wall and serves to outline the opening of the box.

Out of the Box

In the out-of-the-box approach, paint the entire box ceiling a light color or white, while painting the rest of the ceiling in the room a couple of shades darker, and then the wall color even deeper. The room will feel warm and cozy, but the box ceiling will provide visual relief and appear higher. If a light fixture is installed in the box ceiling, the light backdrop will reflect and spread light around the room.

Emphasize the Box

Because the recessed tray is an important architectural feature, some might prefer to paint it a few shades darker than the rest of the ceiling so it appears to recess deeper. Cool colors such as blue, green and gray are the best choices, as they appear to make spaces recede even more. The box ceiling color should complement the wall color. For example, you might choose a cool blue for the interior of the box ceiling and chocolate brown for the walls of the room.

Opportunity for Art

While this option might not work for everyone, within the right space a mural can be the perfect painting solution for a box ceiling. Hire a local artist to paint a historic scene using dramatic colors, or use gold leaf to create exquisite designs. This effect works well in a dining room or a room in which you will be entertaining.

Tags: rest ceiling, architectural feature, ceiling light, ceiling room, forest green, light fixture, recessed tray

Paint Kitchen Ceilings

Painting a kitchen ceiling can revamp the look of the room.

When it comes time to revamp the look of your kitchen, you may be afraid to look up at the old and possibly peeling or cracked paint job on your kitchen ceiling. Painting that area of the kitchen can completely change the look and feel of the room, with darker colors to match the d cor or lighter colors that can really open up the space. Take the time to protect the rest of the room and you'll find that painting the kitchen ceiling is a project well worth the effort.

Instructions

1. Remove everything that you can from the kitchen, including appliances and all moveable furniture. This will ensure that you don't get paint on any of these fixtures.

2. Cover all countertops, as well as the floor, walls and any fixtures that you cannot remove, with plastic sheeting; tape the sheeting in place with painter's tape. This will prevent any drips or spills from ruining the rest of your room.

3. Detach any fixtures from the ceiling, such as ceiling fans or light fixtures. If you cannot detach these, cover them with plastic sheeting and painter's tape as well to keep paint away.

4. Cut in along the joint where the ceiling meets the wall, as well as around any fixtures, with a 2-inch paintbrush dipped in paint. This gets you into corners and against walls where the roller cannot reach.

5. Roll your main body of paint along the ceiling, starting in one corner parallel to the longest wall. Start the roller overlapping the wet edge of the cut-in area by about 1/8 to ¼ inch so that the two areas blend and you don't have a distinct seam between the two.

6. Alternate cutting in and rolling on paint to ensure that you maintain a wet edge between the two sections of paint. This will allow it to blend instead of creating seams between painted areas. Continue until you have covered the entire ceiling, and then let the paint dry overnight.

7. Inspect the painted surface and apply a second coat as necessary to get the appropriate color to cover small imperfections. Use the same procedure, and let the paint dry overnight before removing the coverings.

Tags: kitchen ceiling, This will, ensure that, paint overnight, paint This

The Best Materials For A Bathroom Ceiling

Even with proper ventilation, shower steam exposes bathrooms to more moisture than any other room in the house. Bathrooms require materials that will not leak or hold moisture that damages underlying framing materials. The materials must also repel water so they do not breed mold and mildew. While the ceiling in a shower stall does not get the same exposure as the floor, it is still exposed to water.

Water Resistant Sheet

Water resistant sheet rock is available, and is usually called "greenboard" because of its green hue. While it may be referred to as water-proof, greenboard is not. The material is moisture-resistant. It is a better alternative to cover bathroom walls and ceilings than regular gypsum or sheet rock because of its water resistance. Like regular sheet rock, it should not be used as a sub-straight for tile.

Vapor Barriers

A vapor barrier is critical element in tiled bathrooms. Even thoroughly grouted tiles are not water-proof. Water (and some tiles) will wick water through to the substrate, so a water-proof membrane, or "vapor barrier," must be installed in between the tiles and whatever substrate or "backerboard" is used on shower stall floors, walls and ceilings. Tile ceilings benefit from vapor barriers because they are particularly prone to moisture from condensation.

Waterproof Substrates

Substrates, or "backerboard," for shower and bathroom tiles are not always water-proof. If they have been water-proofed with a vapor barrier, they probably do not need to be. Using water-proof material in addition to using structural backerboard instead of sheetrock gives you extra insurance against structural damage, mold and mildew. Cement board, which is a cement-infused mesh sheet, is a common water-proof substrate. It prevents water damage from condensation when used for tile ceilings in or near shower stalls.

Tiles

Some tiles are porous and not well-suited for bathroom and shower applications. Glazed ceramic tiles have a number of advantages over porous materials. While water may wick through ceramic, it will not permeate ceramic glaze. The ceramic finish is also easy to clean and is an inhospitable environment for mold, mildew and bacteria. This can be particularly helpful on ceilings where droplets of condensation may actually remain longer than beads of water on a wall; Moisture on the walls tends to run down the wall instead of beading up until they evaporate.

Tags: mold mildew, sheet rock, vapor barrier, from condensation, shower stall, walls ceilings

Install A Grundtal Light In An Ikea Cabinet

Ikea sells furniture and home accessories in its stores around the globe. Ikea sells its furniture in knocked-down form, and the purchaser must assemble it. This enables the company to sell its items at lower cost and enables the customer to haul the items home in their own car. Ikea also sells lighting and accessories, such as the Grundtal light fixture. The Grundtal light mounts unobtrusively on Ikea curio cabinets and is perfect for illuminating your items for display.

Instructions

1. Move the cabinet away from the wall so you have easy access to the back side. Remove items from the cabinet to make moving the cabinet less difficult, if desired.

2. Hold the flat plastic light cord receptacle to the back side of the cabinet approximately midway between the top and bottom of the cabinet. Drive in the retaining screws for the receptacle with a Phillips screwdriver.

3. Position the Grundtal light mounting plate to the desired place on top of the cabinet. Secure the plate to the cabinet with the screws provided and drive them in with a Phillips screwdriver.

4. Secure the Grundtal light fixture to the mounting plate with the nuts and bolts included and tighten with a Phillips screwdriver.

5. Remove the protective cover from one of the four ports on the receptacle installed earlier. Plug the cord from the Grundtal light fixture into the port until it snaps into place.

6. Install up to three additional Grundtal light fixtures in the same fashion. Plug the power cord from the receptacle into a wall outlet. Push the cabinet back against the wall. Position the foot control switch on the power cord in a convenient location where no one can trip over it.

Tags: Grundtal light, Grundtal light fixture, light fixture, Phillips screwdriver, with Phillips, with Phillips screwdriver, back side

Hang A Bicycle In A Garage On An Shook

Hanging a bicycle in a garage can keep the garage organized, save on space and protect the bike. Follow these steps to hang your bike with an S-hook.

Instructions

1. Decide where you want hang the bike and if you want to hang it vertically or horizontally. You should put it in a corner, especially if you want to park your car in the garage.

2. Find out how much the bike weighs. An S-hook can hold a bicycle vertically or horizontally by the tires. The size of the hook is determined by the weight of the bike. Ask a staff member at the hardware store what the weight specifications are for each size. Make sure the S-hook is wide enough to fit around the tire of the bicycle.

3. Install the hook. Drill a hole smaller than the threads of the hook you are using into the ceiling or wall with a power drill. Use a screwdriver to attach any hardware that the hook came with or just screw in the S-hook.

4. Hang the bicycle from the hook.

Tags: vertically horizontally, want hang

Attach A Gas Water Heater Vent Flange To The Ceiling

Interior vent flanges act as a collar around vent ducts.

Hollow wall coverings, such as drywall, won't securely support a water heater's vent flange fasteners. Common mounting solutions including installing lumber bracing behind the drywall, securing the screws with hollow wall anchors or gluing the flange to the ceiling with a construction adhesive. If your flange provides bracing for the vent duct, you must support it with blocks installed between the ceiling joists. If the flange is only a decorative accessory, you can opt for hollow wall anchors or adhesive. In either case, installing a ceiling-mounted flange requires only common tools and basic construction skills.

Instructions

1. Set the compass or drywall circle cutter's gauge to the radius of the vent flange's opening; the opening's radius is half of its diameter. Place the compass or cutter pin at the center of the opening's desired location.

2. Turn the compass or cutter one full rotation to lay out the flange opening's perimeter. If you used a compass, cut out the circle along the layout line with a drywall saw. If you used circle cutter, score the center of the circle into wedges with a utility knife and knock out the circle with a hammer.

3. Access the attic above the hole. Measure the distance between the joists or trusses that surround the hole. Mark the distance on two pieces of framing lumber and cut the lumber to size with a circular saw. These pieces run between the joists on either side of the hole to provide a fastening surface for the vent flange.

4. Determine the allowable proximity of the lumber to the vent duct. Many vents require a minimum clearance space between the duct and framing materials or insulation. Refer to your water heater manufacturer's instructions to determine clearance dimension. Fasten a lumber block perpendicular between the joists with a framing nail gun, one on each side of the hole, according to the clearance requirements. Measure the distance between sides of the blocks that face the hole.

5. Mark two pieces of lumber at the distance between the blocks and cut the lumber to size with a circular saw. These pieces will run between the previously installed blocks, parallel to the joists, and form the remaining sides of a box that provides fastening surfaces for all four sides of the flange. Fasten the recently cut blocks perpendicular between the existing blocks, one on each side of the hole, according to the clearance requirements. Mark the blocks' position on the ceiling's exposed surface; the blocks' locations are concealed during installation.

6. Slip the vent flange over a piece of vent duct. Mount one end of the duct over the preceding length of duct or the heater's outlet. Push the remaining end of the duct through the hole in the ceiling. Slide the flange up the duct's shaft and flush against the ceiling's surface. Attach a driver bit to the power drill. Align the flange's base square with the marks that represent blocks' locations. Drive screws through the flange's base with the power drill. Apply a screw to each corner and every 3 to 4 inches along the perimeter.

Tags: between joists, distance between, side hole, vent duct, vent flange, according clearance

Use Foam Board On A Ceiling

Foam board is a type of insulation that is used to help conserve energy in a house. You can install it anywhere and it is generally found in between the studs in the wall. Foam board is a good insulator and, depending on the thickness, it can have a high R-value. You can also install it in a ceiling for added insulation anywhere in the house. Installing foam board in a ceiling is similar to installing it anywhere else; any homeowner can accomplish this task.

Instructions

1. Measure the ceiling of the room where the installation will take place to determine the total square footage. Multiply the width by the length to get the square footage.

2. Lay the first sheet of foam board running perpendicular along the ceiling. Insert wood screws through the board and into the studs in the ceiling. Move down to the next stud and insert another screw. Continue all the way around the entire foam board to secure it to the studs.

3. Place a 1x3 furring strip vertically about two feet long directly in the center of the board and screw it into the studs to further secure the board in place. Add two more furring strips in the same manner on either side of the center one and equally spaced. Line up the second piece and install it in the same manner. Continue down the first row until reaching the end.

4. Cut the end piece to size with a utility knife to fit in place. Mark where the cut will need to be made and line up a T-square along the line. Follow the T-square with a utility knife and score the piece. Snap it and cut the other side to break it in two and install it in the same manner.

5. Install the second row just like the previous one was installed and continue with the rest of the rows in the same manner. Inspect the area to make sure no screws are sticking up.

Tags: same manner, foam board, Foam board, install same, install same manner, into studs, square footage

Repair Loosened Ceiling Fan Light Fixtures

Tighten the securing screws to fix a loose ceiling fan light fixture.

Ceiling fans with light fixtures add illumination to a room while moving the air around your home. The constant rotation of the fan blades and motor sometimes causes the fixture to wobble or shake. This is due to the light fixture or the fixture housing becoming loose. Repairing a loosened ceiling fan light fixture requires knowing where the fixture is loose. Fortunately, there are only two places it can be loose, and each involves only a minor adjustment.

Instructions

1. Find the circuit breaker to the ceiling fan in your home's electrical panel, and turn off the breaker.

2. Position a stepladder under the ceiling fan and remove the bulbs and the globes from the fixture. Depending on your fan, the globes either have three thumb screws securing them to the fixture, or you might have a single globe that unscrews from a threaded housing.

3. Shake the ceiling fan light fixture gently with your hand to determine where the fixture is loose. The bottom half of the fixture fits over a housing with three screws. The main housing connects to the ceiling fan shaft with a 3/8-inch nut.

4. Tighten the three screws around the outside of the fixture housing, using a Phillips-head screwdriver, if the fixture moves when shook but the housing doesn't.

5. Loosen the three securing screws if the light fixture housing seems to shake around the shaft that connects it to the ceiling fan. Gently twist the ceiling fan light fixture counterclockwise and lower it from the housing.

6. Hold the light fixture in one hand without causing strain on the fixture's electrical wires. Tighten the nut on the inside center of the housing where the ceiling fan shaft connects, using a nut driver.

7. Push the ceiling fan light fixture around the housing, with the notches on the fixture fitting around the necks of the securing screws. Twist the fixture clockwise to lock the fixture and tighten the securing screws.

8. Reinstall the globes and light bulbs in the ceiling fan light fixture. Turn on the circuit breaker to power the ceiling fan.

Tags: light fixture, ceiling light fixture, ceiling light, securing screws, fixture housing

Install A Remote Control Ceiling Fan In A New Home

Installing a ceiling fan in a new home can be easy.

Installing a remote control ceiling fan in a new home can be somewhat more straightforward than installing it into an older home. In a new home, no existing fixtures need to be removed before you can install your ceiling fan. The chance that the electrical junction box in the ceiling is rated for a ceiling fan is much greater than in an older home, because you have the opportunity to request that your builder install these junction boxes during construction.

Instructions

1. Turn off the breaker at your main electrical panel that supplies electricity to the circuit for your remote control ceiling fan.

2. Assemble your ceiling fan per the manufacturer's instructions. Install the mounting bracket to the ceiling fan junction box. The mounting bracket will install to the junction box with two screws provided with the ceiling fan's mounting hardware.

3. Identify the wiring inside the ceiling fan junction box and on the ceiling fan remote receiver. The wires inside of the junction box consist of a black, a white and a bare copper wire that supply electrical power to your ceiling fan. The ceiling fan remote receiver has two sets of wires attached to it, one set for the power supply side of the remote receiver and one set for the ceiling fan side. The set for the power supply side consists of a black and white wire, and the set for the ceiling fan side consists of a black, white and a wire labeled for the light kit.

4. Connect the remote receiver to the power supply wires. Twist an orange wire nut clockwise onto the black wire from the junction box and the black wire from the power supply side of the receiver, connecting them together. Twist an orange wire nut onto the white wire from the junction box and the white wire from the power supply side of the remote in the same manner.

5. Connect the bare copper wire to the green ground screw on the ceiling fan mounting breaker and tighten the screw.

6. Connect the ceiling fan to the remote receiver. Your ceiling fan wiring consists of a black, white and a wire labeled for the light kit. Connect the black wire from the ceiling fan to the black wire on the ceiling fan side of the remote by twisting an orange wire nut onto both wires. Connect the white wires from the fan and remote receiver as well as the wires labeled light kit from the fan and receiver together by twisting orange wire nuts onto both sets of wires.

7. Push all wires and the ceiling fan remote control receiver into the ceiling fan junction box. Mount the ceiling fan to the mounting bracket with the screw provided with the ceiling fan mounting hardware.

8. Turn on the breaker at your main electrical panel that supplies electricity to the circuit for your remote control ceiling fan.

Tags: remote receiver, power supply, white wire, wire from, black white, black wire, ceiling mounting

Paint Suspended Ceiling Tiles

Suspended ceilings can have a number of advantages over regular ceilings. Also known as drop ceilings, these coverings hang from the actual roof structure by a set of metallic grids. This space between the structure and the ceiling tiles allows for acoustical changes (including partial soundproofing from noise from above) and fire resistance, among other advantages. Painting these tiles may change these fire and sound characteristics, but can also allow you to customize your tiles to fit the style and design of your room.

Instructions

1. Remove the ceiling tiles from the grid. Lay them flat on a drop cloth or other protective covering to stop paint from ruining floors.

2. Clean surface dust and dirt from the suspended ceiling tiles with a soft brush vacuum cleaner attachment. Do not paint before cleaning, as the dust and dirt will get stuck in the paint and ruin the look of your ceiling tiles.

3. Ventilate the area well by opening windows and doors, or using vans to circulate fresh air into the area. Paint fumes can be harmful if inhaled over long periods of time, and circulating air will also speed up the drying process.

4. Thin your paint product with paint thinner per the product's instructions. If you decide to use a paint sprayer, the paint may need to be thinned even further for use in the sprayer. Follow all instructions; thin only as instructed, as paint that is too thin will require more coats and will not adhere to the tiles as well.

5. Wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from paint spray or splatter. Fill your spray gun with paint, or pour the paint into a rolling pan.

6. Paint the tiles. If you use a paint roller, use one with a ¼-inch nap; this small nap means that the surface is smoother and it will apply the paint in smoother layers. If using a paint spray, spray perpendicular to the surface and use smooth, back-and-forth motions for an even coating.

7. Allow the first coat of paint to dry for 24 hours, and then inspect the work. If necessary, apply another coat of paint. Allow the paint to dry for at least 24 hours before reinstalling the tiles.

Tags: ceiling tiles, ceiling tiles, coat paint, dust dirt, paint spray, with paint

Shorten A Cord On A Pendant Light

Shorten the cord on your pendant so you can walk beneath it.

Pendant lights are traditionally used in the dining room over the dining table. If the pendant light is hung correctly, it should rest approximately 3 feet above the table. A problem arises when you choose to use your dining room for another purpose and the pendant light becomes a hazard in the room. You can shorten the cord on your pendant light, allowing you to walk beneath it without bumping your head.

Instructions

1. Turn off the power to your pendant light by turning off the breaker that supplies the electricity to the circuit at the main electrical panel.

2. Remove the nut attached to the screw collar loop that holds the canopy to the ceiling. The canopy covers the electrical box and the wiring for the pendant light fixture. The screw collar loop attaches to the first link in the chain at the ceiling and has threads on the exterior where the nut attaches. Removing the canopy exposes the wiring in the ceiling.

3. Test to verify that the power has been disconnected to your pendant light. Use a two-prong electrical tester and touch one prong to the black wire inside the wire connector and the other prong to any metal on the electrical box. If your power has been disconnected correctly the light on your tester will not light up.

4. Disconnect the wires inside the electrical box. Before you disconnect the wires, use a piece of black electrical tape to label the lamp wire connected to the black wire inside the electrical box. Remove the wire connectors from the black wire and the white wire inside the electrical box, disconnecting the pendant. The screw collar loop will be threaded onto a nipple held to the electrical box on the fixture crossbar. Turn the screw collar loop counterclockwise, removing it from the threaded nipple and releasing the pendant from the ceiling. The fixture cross bar is a flat piece of metal that is attached to the electrical box and holds the threaded nipple.

5. Open the link on the chain that is attached to the screw collar loop. Use pliers and wrap the link in soft cloth as to not damage the finish on the chain. Remove enough links from the chain to shorten the pendant to the desired length. Open a link on the chain to remove the access chain and close that link around the screw collar loop.

6. Pull the lamp cord through the top of the screw collar to remove the access cord in the chain. Note which side of the lamp cord you labeled with black tape. Remove the excess cord using wire cutter/strippers and strip a 1/2 inch of insulation off of each lamp wire.

7. Thread the lamp cord through the nipple in the electrical box and screw the screw collar onto the nipple. Twist an orange wire connector onto the black wire and the wire you labeled with black electrical tape, connecting them together. Twist an additional orange wire connector onto the white wire and the remaining lamp wire. Slide the canopy up over the nipple and against the ceiling and tighten the nut onto the screw collar loop.

8. Turn the power back on to the lighting circuit by turning on the breaker at the main electrical panel.

Tags: screw collar, collar loop, screw collar loop, pendant light, black wire

Troubleshoot And Oil An Outdoor Harbor Breeze Ceiling Fan

You'll need a ladder to oil the ceiling fan.

Maintaining your outdoor Harbor Breeze ceiling fan with oil enables it to operate smoothly for many years. Oiling the fan ensures that the blades rotate smoothly and quickly without making obnoxious squeaking noises. This type of ceiling fan is sold by Lowe's and is known for its durability, reasonable price and attractive style. Although ceiling fans are a common feature inside many homes, using them on a patio, porch or other outdoor area is also an option.

Instructions

Oiling the Fan

1. Cover the area underneath the ceiling fan with newspapers. Lay an old sheet or a drop cloth over any nearby patio or porch furniture. This prevents any oil splatters once you turn the fan back on.

2. Position a ladder underneath the ceiling fan and climb up on it so you can see the top of the motor.

3. Brush off any dust from the ceiling fan with a feather duster or soft cloth -- including both sides of the blades -- before attempting to add oil.

4. Look on top of the fan motor for the oil hole opening. This is near the area where the down rod connects to the fan.

5. Insert a narrow-tipped funnel into the opening then pour in lightweight motor oil. One or 2 ounces of oil should be sufficient unless the fan has had little or no maintenance over the years.

6. Turn the ceiling fan on "Low" for a few minutes to allow the oil to lubricate the motor. Remove the newspapers and other coverings after three to five minutes.

Troubleshooting the Fan

7. Tighten the screws on the light fixture and other parts of your Harbor Breeze ceiling fan with a screwdriver. Parts may come loose over time and cause a humming or buzzing sound, along with slower operation.

8. Push the bottom section of the ceiling fan gently with your finger if wobbling prevents the fan from running smoothly. The fan should return immediately to the correct position. If it continues to wobble, inspect the ball at the top of the down rod for correct alignment in the mounting bracket. Tighten the screws if it is not directly in the center of the bracket where the notch is located. This prevents the fan from wobbling an unusual amount while operating.

9. Check the wall switch to ensure it is "On." Even if family members normally never use the switch, they may forget and turn it off. This is often the cause of a fan that does not come on when you pull the chain.

Tags: ceiling with, Harbor Breeze, Breeze ceiling, Breeze ceiling with, Harbor Breeze ceiling, patio porch

Stop A Ceiling Water Leak

Ceiling leaks can be addressed by repairing the problem source.

When a ceiling leaks, two possible causes are an overflowing air conditioner drip pan or a leak in the roof. In the former instance, simply draining the air conditioner's drip pan will stop the leak. However, ceiling leaks that are a result of a hole or crack in the roof above require more attention. While a bit time consuming, repairing the source of the leak as well as the ceiling can be done by willing homeowners.

Instructions

Stop the Ceiling Leak

1. Heat a small amount of tar in a metal bucket on a portable electric burner to make it spreadable.

2. Put a claw hammer, a mop, roof felt, roofing nails, utility knife and shingles into another bucket.

3. Place a ladder against the roof and climb to the roof with the bucket of supplies. Retrieve the bucket containing the heated tar and bring it onto the roof.

4. Go to the source of the leak and pull up the old shingles with the claw hammer. Examine the felt underneath the shingles. If it is torn, pull it up using the claw hammer as well.

5. Spread the heated tar with the mop to fill in the leak. Press roof felt over the tar. Secure the felt with roofing nails and the hammer and cut off any excess with a utility knife.

6. Spread more tar over the felt and fasten a shingle to the roof using the hammer and roofing nails to finish patching the leak.

Repair the Ceiling

7. Place a ladder under the water-stained area and cut out the damaged portion of with a drywall saw, making an even, square-shaped cut.

8. Measure the size of the square with a tape measure and cut a piece of drywall equal to that size.

9. Fit the patch into the ceiling and fasten it to the roof trusses with drywall screws, using a screw gun.

10. Tape the joints around the square with drywall tape and spread joint compound over the tape using a putty knife.

11. Sand the joint compound once dry with fine-grit sandpaper and prime the patch with interior primer and a paint roller. Apply a coat of ceiling paint to conceal the patch and finish.

Tags: claw hammer, roofing nails, with drywall, conditioner drip, joint compound, Place ladder, roof felt

Clean Dusty Ceiling Fans

Frequently clean dusty ceiling fans.

While using ceiling fans to circulate air is cost and energy efficient, homeowners must be prepared to deal with dust. Accumulated dust particles on fan blades scatter around rooms, causing people with allergies to suffer. Dusty and dirty blades also eventually wobble, make loud sounds and damage the fan's motor. While people rarely see these layers of dust, weekly cleaning keeps the air dust-free and allows ceiling fans to last longer. Fortunately, basic supplies are effective at cleaning dusty ceiling fans.

Instructions

1. Turn off the ceiling fan. Place a stepladder on the floor under the fan, unless you can easily reach the blades.

2. Put on eye goggles to prevent getting dust particles in your eyes. Dampen a microfiber cloth with water.

3. Wipe both sides of each blade slowly with the damp cloth to remove the heavy layer of dust. Rinse the microfiber cloth with water after you clean each blade.

4. Remove any additional dust by wiping both sides of the blades with a feather duster. Open the motor housing compartment, according to the ceiling fan manufacturer's directions in your owner's manual.

5. Spray compressed air into the motor housing compartment to get dust out of the motor. Close the motor housing compartment, according to the manufacturer's directions in your owner's manual.

Paint A Porch Ceiling Blue

Painting a porch ceiling blue is a matter of good preparation and proper painting technique.

There is no decorating rule that says that all ceilings must be painted white, including porch ceilings. While painting a porch ceiling in a dark midnight blue can have an effect on light reflection (reducing reflected glare or darkening the porch in general), a sky blue can create a lovely atmosphere. Good surface preparation will pay off with a professional-looking paint job.

Instructions

1. Clear the porch and the ceiling area. Remove all porch furniture and take down any hanging swings or planters. Remove any covers on ceiling-mounted porch lights.

2. Clean the ceiling. Use a mop with a cotton head, dipped into a bucket of warm, sudsy water. Rinse the ceiling thoroughly after "soaping" it. A power sprayer, set on "wide" angle, produces the best result, but you can also use a common garden hose with sprayer attachment. Remove standing water from the porch floor with a broom or wet-vacuum. Let the ceiling dry thoroughly.

3. Spread drop cloths on the porch floor and over any railings and banisters. Canvas drop cloths are generally better than thin plastic drop cloths since they stay put, especially on a windy day.

4. Scrape off any remaining loose paint from the ceiling using a paint scraper or a stiff metal spackle knife. Use a ladder to reach the ceiling comfortably. Be sure to wear protective eyewear throughout most of this project. You will be looking up most of the time while prepping and painting, so you will want to keep flecks of paint (old and new) out of your eyes.

5. Mask the walls along the ceiling lines using a high quality painters tape. Mask around the porch light fixture base as well. If your porch light is a chandelier, "bag" the chandelier with a loose covering of clear plastic.

6. Prime the ceiling. "Cut in" the borders where the porch ceiling meets the wall, and around any light fixture, with a 2- to 3-inch wide sash brush. Fill in the rest of the ceiling with primer using a roller applicator and an extension handle. Let the primer dry overnight. Clean out your sash brush but dispose of the used roller cover.

7. Apply the first coat of blue paint. Cut in the borders of the ceiling and around any light fixture with the sash brush and paint in the rest of the ceiling with the roller. Let this first coat dry thoroughly. Place your brush and paint roller in the roller tray and cover the tray with a plastic garbage bag. This will keep the brush and roller head wet while waiting for the first coat of paint to dry, even if the "wait" is overnight.

8. Apply a second coat of the blue paint, starting with the "cut in" work again and then filling in the rest of the porch ceiling. If the shade of blue paint is very dark, you may need to apply a third coat to achieve good coverage. Let dry overnight. Clean your brushes and paint roller frame: dispose of the used roller cover.

9. Remove all the masking tape and uncover the light fixture. Roll up the drop cloths and reinstall furnishings.

10. Save any leftover paint for future touch ups by pouring it into a suitable container. Label the container "Porch Ceiling," plus the name of the paint manufacturer, the name of the color and the date.

Tags: porch ceiling, drop cloths, light fixture, blue paint, ceiling with

Build Floor To Ceiling Bookcases

If you have a lot of books, you know that they can end up all over the house if you don't have adequate space to organize them. A floor to ceiling bookcase can offer ample room for book storage, while taking up very little space in the room. Building a simple floor to ceiling bookcase for your home may seem like a daunting task, but a floor to ceiling bookcase is actually a straightforward construction project.

Instructions

1. Measure the distance between the floor and the ceiling. Cut two boards the length of that distance. These boards will be the sides of your bookcase.

2. Measure and cut two boards the width that you would like the bookcase to be. These boards will be the top and bottom of your bookcase.

3. Attach the top and bottom boards to the side boards with 2-inch nails. Use nails spaced every one or two inches. This creates the frame of your bookcase.

4. Cut and attach the shelves. You can place them at equal distances apart. Wherever you place your shelves, it's a good idea to measure down from the top of the bookcase and mark an equal distance on each side to ensure your shelf will be straight. Attach the shelves to the bookcase by hammering several 2-inch nails through each side of the bookshelf and into the edges of each shelf.

5. Paint or stain the bookcase. Use a drop cloth and ventilate the room well if painting inside. Or the bookcase can be left as is for a more natural look.

Tags: floor ceiling, ceiling bookcase, floor ceiling bookcase, your bookcase, 2-inch nails, boards will, each side

Stop A Buzzing Ceiling Fan

Although a ceiling fan is an excellent energy saver that can both cool and heat a room, it is bothersome when the fan produces an annoying buzzing noise. This is particularly true when you are trying to fall asleep, or just enjoying some peace and quiet. Ceiling fans can make a buzzing noise for a variety of reasons, so finding the source and stopping the noise may require some trial and error.

Instructions

Methods

1. Check for electrical problems. A dimmer switch can cause a fan to buzz. Most ceiling fans are not made to work with a dimmer switch. Install the proper electric switch to stop the buzzing noise. You can also rig the fan to operate with its pull chains, as opposed to a wall switch.

2. Check the fan's different speeds. One speed may produce less of a buzzing noise than another. Ceiling fans often buzz at a lower speed. Run the fan at a higher speed, and then lower it. This may stop the buzzing.

3. Many ceiling fans have a light fixture. Check to see if one of the covers for a light bulb is loose. Check to make sure none of the light covers are clicking against the light bulb when fan is running. Adjust cover so it's no longer in contact with the bulb.

4. Loose screws can cause a buzzing sound. Tighten the screws that attach the blades to the motor. Tighten any other screws, including the screws that attach the fan to the ceiling.

5. Run the fan for 24 hours. Fans that have not been in operation over an extended period of time can produce a buzzing sound that indicates the motor bearings need lubrication. Most fans lubricate themselves while running. Lubricate fans that do require maintenance with a light machine oil.

Tags: buzzing noise, buzzing sound, ceiling fans, Ceiling fans, dimmer switch, light bulb

Open A Round Flush Mounted Ceiling Light

You must remove the glass part of a flush mounted light to replace the bulb.

Flush mounted ceiling lights are mounted directly on the ceiling. There is no space between the ceiling and the light, as opposed to chandeliers or pendant types. In contrast to recessed lighting, flush mounted lights do not have any components above the ceiling itself. Flush mounted ceiling lights are often round and may have globes or be opened or closed styles. Since the bulbs in flush mounted lights must be changed just like any other type of light, it is important to know open them, except for the open styles which are easily accessed.

Instructions

Globe Style Flush Mounted

1. Locate one or more flat-headed screws on the metal collar of the ceiling light. The collar will be the round part into which the globe is inserted.

2. Place one hand on the bottom of the globe and support it at all times. It will become loose and you do not want it to fall.

3. Turn at least one of the screws on the collar counter-clockwise to loosen it. The part of the screw inside the collar protrudes into a recessed rim in the part of the globe inside the collar. Unscrewing the screw takes it out of the rim and you should be able to remove the globe without completely removing the screw. If there is more than one screw, you may have to loosen more than one of them to open the light.

Closed Style Flush Mounted

4. Locate the ornamental finial in the middle of the bottom of the flush mounted ceiling light.

5. Hold the glass part of the light with one hand. It will become unattached from the light and you must prevent it from falling.

6. Turn the finial counter-clockwise to loosen it. When it is completely loose, carefully lower your other hand that is supporting the glass part to open the light. You will have to completely detach the finial, so be careful not to drop it.

Tags: ceiling light, glass part, ceiling lights, counter-clockwise loosen, flush mounted, Flush Mounted

Rebalance A Ceiling Fan

A wobbling ceiling fan may fall if the swing is too violent.

A ceiling fan needs to be properly balanced to prevent performance problems. A fan that is not evenly balanced across all of its blades may wobble back and forth on the ceiling. If the wobble becomes pronounced, the mounting rod may bend or break or the motor may fail. If general troubleshooting such as cleaning the blades and tightening down the screws holding the fan blades in pace does not solve your wobbling issue,you will need to rebalance the fan.

Instructions

1. Mark each blade of the fan with a piece of masking tape. Number each piece. The numbered pieces will help you keep track of which blades you have already balanced.

2. Bring one blade towards you and extend the measuring tape vertically. Measure the distance between the far edge of the fan and the ceiling. Measure each fan blade and see if any are higher or lower. Try bending the bracket holding the fan blade gently to move the blade to the right place. Run the fan to see if this has solved the issue.

3. Place the clip from a fan balancing kit, available from many hardware stores, on the blade you believe is wobbling. The clip slides on the end of the blade. Turn on the fan and observe. Move the clip closer to the motor if the fan continues to wobble. Continue moving the clip until the blades move smoothly.

4. Remove the clip from the blade and add a weight, included with your fan balancing kit, to the offending blade in its place. Secure the weight with a piece of tape. Test the unit. If the weight solves the problem, remove the adhesive back of the weight and place it on the top of the blade.

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Find Out If A Ceiling Electrical Box Is Suited For A Light Fixture

If you are looking for a great spot to mount a light fixture, you may notice an electrical box on the ceiling that would be a convenient spot to mount the light fixture. Depending on the electrical box's previous use, it may or may not be suitable for mounting a light fixture to it. Light fixtures can have some weight to them, and if the box isn't properly secured in the ceiling, the electrical box could pull right out of the ceiling when the light is mounted to it. However, it is easy to find out if a ceiling electrical box is suited for a light fixture.

Instructions

Instructions

1. Plug in a light fixture to the ceiling electrical box. Look for a wall switch in the room and see if the switch turns the light fixture on and off. If no switch controls the box, either you'll need to rewire the box to a switch or you'll have a light that's always on.

2. Turn off the power to the electrical box by turning the appropriate breaker off in the circuit breaker panel.

3. Climb into the attic and remove all the insulation away from the electrical box. The electrical box either needs to be screwed directly into a ceiling joist or needs a metal bracing that spans two ceiling joists. If it's just sitting in the drywall, a light cannot hang from it.

4. Remove the drywall around the box if you can't get into an attic or there isn't an attic space above the electrical box. Look to see if the box is screwed directly into a ceiling joist or has a metal brace that spans two ceiling joists.

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Build Overhead Plywood Shelves In The Garage

Overhead shelving in the garage not only provides handy storage space, but it will free up valuable floor space as well. Garage shelving typically needs to be sturdier than other shelving to accommodate the range of items that may be stored on it, from machinery to power tools and gardening equipment. Plywood is an ideal, sturdy and economical material to use for building garage shelves.

Instructions

1. Measure down from the ceiling to the desired height of the overhead shelves. Mark a level line across the wall at this height, the length you want the shelves to be; they can extend across the whole wall if desired.

2. Locate the garage studs in the wall along the line and mark their position, using a stud finder.

3. Cut lengths of 1-by-2-inch lumber long enough to cover the whole wall line. These will be shelf cleats, or supports. Cut lengths of 1-by-2-inch lumber to 6 inches long, as many as there are stud points along the line. These are the mounting anchors for the shelf brackets.

4. Cut shelves out of plywood, no more than around 14 inches wide. Trim the ends of the shelves to 45-degree angles, so that when they are installed in the garage, the ends will mate and create a stable overhead shelf.

5. Paint all the lumber and plywood for the shelves and leave to dry. Painting before installation is much easier, and less messy than painting the shelves once they have been installed.

6. Position the cleats on the wall line and secure them in place with two drywall screws driven through the cleats into each of the stud points. Place a bracket anchor perpendicular to the cleats at each stud point and secure them with drywall screws driven through each corner of the anchor.

7. Place a bracket on each stud point, with the top of the bracket level with the top of the cleat and the one arm extending down over the bracket anchor. Secure the bracket with drywall screws through the screw holes in the bracket arm.

8. Place the plywood shelves over the top of the brackets and cleats, mating the angled ends to make continuous shelving on the wall. Secure the shelves to the cleats with 1 1/4-inch screws driven every 5 to 6 inches through the top of the shelf into the cleat, to the horizontal bracket arm as well.

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Which Way To Turn The Wand On Mini Blinds To Reflect The Light Rounded Or Flat

Adjust your blinds to reflect light.

Twisting the wand on your mini blinds will rotate the blind slats to either let in the light or to reflect it. Using this feature will help you save money on your electricity bill. Reflecting the light during the day will keep your home cool during the summer and letting the light in during the day in the winter will help warm your home. The light on the opposite side of the blind will be reflected differently if the blinds have rounded slats or flat slats. Flat blinds will reflect the light directly off of the blinds while curved blinds will either concentrate the light if the blind is concave or splay the light if the blind is convex.

Instructions

Reflecting Light with Curved and Flat Blinds

1. Lower the blinds by gently pulling on the cord and letting it go.

2. Twist the wand counterclockwise when the sun is low in the sky. This will adjust the slats so that they are angled down and will better reflect the light.

3. Twist the wand clockwise when the light begins to get through the slats. This is generally in the middle of the day when the sun is high is the sky. This will adjust the slats so that they are angled up so that they will reflect the light from the sun better.

4. Twist the blinds back counterclockwise to reflect the light once you notice that it is going through the blinds. This will be in the end of the day when the sun begins to set and is low in the sky.

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