Lanterns Light The Way To A Better Exterior

Finding the right set of exterior lights isn't always easy. There is such a huge selection to choose from on aesthetics alone. Some of the more popular varieties in recent years come in brass or copper, but even if you select a material there's a long way to go before selecting the style.

I won't even get into selecting the style, but there are definitely some general guidelines to follow when it comes to where you put your lanterns, particularly if they're next to an entryway. These guidelines come from the folks at Light Innovations:

If you plan to place a lantern on only one side of the door it should measure one-third the height of the door. The center of the bulb should rest 66″ above the threshold of the door.

If you plan to use two lanterns they should each measure approximately one-fourth the height of the door. The center of the bulb should rest 66″ above the threshold of the door.

Another huge question to ask is whether you'll go with a gas or electric lantern. Obviously, there's going to be a cost differential and it's good to know which is more expensive in your area before making that decision. Some would argue there is a difference in lighting quality as well, and that's something that should certainly be looked into in your decision making process. 

Regardless of where you go in this decision process, making a good choice can lend an elegant charm to your exterior and possibly increase the value of your home. So do your research and speak to a professional to make sure you do the right thing.

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Tips for your Swimming Pool or Spa

Following are few tips that will be very helpful when using the swimming pool or spa. Your water will be cleaner and save you some money. Use Brand Name Products from Sun, GLB, Guardex, Leisure Time to keep your pool clean. For your convenience I've attached informational links and links to purchase some of the items mentioned (from Swimtown, my personal favorite place to shop - great prices and they have real people that answer the phone!)

• Water Testing    Always check for water balance and ph of the water. Maintain proper level. Buy brand name products like Sun, GLB, and Guradex to keep your water balanced. Shop for test strips.
• Automatic Cleaners    Make sure your automatic cleaners are working and all the debris are getting removed. Check all the hose and working of skimmers. There are a lot of great pool cleaners out there from manufacturers like Polaris and Aquabot.
• Sanitizers    All the sanitizing equipement should be in proper working conditions. Make sure your sanitizers are working
• Oils & Soaps    When in using pool do not use soap or cleaning products like Formula 409, shampoo etc. It will be helpful if your body does not have skin lotions this can be done by having a pre-bath or cleaning your hands, legs and face before entering the pool.
• Plastic Caps    Use Plastic Caps. They tend to keep hair spray and hair products from getting into the pool.
• Scumballs    Scumballs are good oil removing agent. Scumball products drastically reduce the amount of oils that actually get sucked into the filter. Squeeze the Scumball after each pool uss and replace them when they start to detriorate. You can also use Enzyme based oil removers sold by Sun and GLB brand chemicals. The break down the oil into smaller particles and keep water crystal clean and fresh for long period of  2 - 3 months.
• Pool Filters    Your filter (purchase here - http://www.swimtownpools.com/pool-filters-s/173.htm) should always be in proper working condition. Make sure all the inlet and outlet valves are functioning properly. Check for the Filter Pressure. Keep filter catridges, Sand or D.E. Grids handy to change them. Recommend changing the elements every 1 - 2 years or as per the use of pool.
• Bromine/ Chlorine Tablets    Use Floating feeders to keep your water always in good condition by using Bromine or Chlorine Tablets. Make sure of dissolve rate and add them as needed. Shop for these here.

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