Remove Ugly Wallpaper with Ease

(MS) -- Looking for a weekend home improvement project? Removing old tired wallpaper in the hallway, bathroom, or other room of your home is a project that will give you dramatic results with little effort.

Wallpaper removal is easy if you follow a few simple steps and use products available at your local home center, paint retailer or hardware store. Here's how:

Step #1: Score the wallpaper. Most wallpaper has a washable, waterproof surface. Try peeling the top layer away by hand. If it won't peel away easily, you need to score the wallpaper first to ensure that wallpaper stripper solution is able to reach and loosen the glue underneath. PaperTiger Wallpaper Scoring Tool is designed to perforate the wallpaper without damaging the wall for fast and easy scoring. The more holes you make, the faster and easier the paper will come off the walls.

Step #2: Apply a wallpaper stripper like DIF Wallpaper Stripper. Available in a liquid concentrate, gel or fast-acting liquid, it is safe, non-toxic and easy to use. Apply to one wall at a time, starting at the top and working your way down. DIF is formulated to penetrate and breakdown wallpaper paste quickly. In 20 minutes or less, the wallpaper will be ready to be removed.

Step #3: Remove the loose wallpaper. Use a PaperScraper tool to get the wallpaper off the wall without hard work or surface damage. If any glue remains, simply reapply the stripper to the area, wait 15-20 minutes, remove it with PaperScraper or a sponge and rinse with clean water. Before you know it you'll have clear, wallpaper free walls ready for repainting and redecorating!

For more information about removing or hanging wallpaper, or for more helpful home improvement tips, visit www.zinsser.com.

CAPTION: Remove old wallpaper to give an old, tired room a new look.

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Kitchen design Transform your kitchen with new countertops

(MS) -- In these tough economic times many Americans are choosing to forego their massive kitchen remodeling plans in favor of more cost-effective solutions. Experts agree that by simply installing new countertops your kitchen can take on a whole new look and feel.

According to Mark Hanna, President of Montreal-based Leeza Distribution Inc., one of North America's leading distributors of premium countertops such as HanStone Fine Quartz Surfaces and Durcon's Elements epoxy surfaces, sometimes a facelift may be more prudent than a complete makeover.

"I've seen where just replacing the countertops in a kitchen made a major difference and gave an impression of a brand new space," he explained. "It's because your countertops are the most visible source of color in the kitchen. If your cabinets are white or wood, then what immediately catches your eye is the surface you use the most -- your countertop.

Today's latest designs in countertops can take a moderate looking kitchen and turn it into a trendy designer space. You will be amazed at the selection of countertop colors, textures and finishes available. The primary goal, Hanna recommends, is to find a durable, stain-resistant and easy-to-clean surface that will also bring style, elegance and beauty to your kitchen.

The two most popular countertop materials which meet the criteria for both practicality and elegance are quartz surfaces and the emerging epoxy surfaces by Durcon Inc.

"We offer the two hottest products in the market today but taste has a lot to do with your choice," said Hanna. "If you have an affinity for stone, which provides visual impact and dominance in a kitchen, than HanStone is for you. Whereas if a stylishly sleek, yet extraordinarily tough and functional surface is your goal, then Elements would be the ideal choice."

Both surface materials meet the highest standards for hygiene and cleanliness in the industry (certified NSF 51) thanks to their nonporous properties. Also of great importance, both are accredited with Greenguard environmental certification for low emitting products.

In fact, Elements countertops were originally created to withstand extreme conditions found in industrial and laboratory environments. Elements is a proprietary blend of epoxy resin and fine quartz formed through a unique manufacturing process that creates an incredibly smooth and durable surface. It features a contemporary stone look that is silky smooth, timeless and clean, making it an ideal countertop surface for today's ultra-modern decors, which feature clean lines, sleek appliances and a darker color palette.

With countertops it's still all about color and with Elements surfaces you can choose from seven attractive colors or customize your own countertop colors to harmonize with your decor. More information on epoxy and quartz surfaces is available at leezadistribution.com.

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From chemistry labs to kitchens Ultra-durable epoxy countertops the latest trend

(MS) -- You probably remember them from the chemistry labs in high school. You know the smooth black countertops that were indestructible. Flames, acid, solvents, and chemicals were no match for these ultra-durable surfaces. Made of flame- and stain-resistant epoxy resin, these countertops are still the top choice in today's laboratories, hotels, hospitals and now ... homes?
The latest trend to watch out for in countertops is epoxy surfaces for their unmatched durability, cleanliness and aesthetic qualities.

Durcon Inc., the leading U.S. manufacturer of epoxy resin countertops and sinks for the last 35 years, officially launched an exciting new product, Elements by Durcon to the residential market last fall. Stone fabricators, dealers and architects from across North America agree that the product's unique qualities and highly durable characteristics set it apart from other stone products currently available.

Molded from a proprietary blend of epoxy and fine quartz, the countertops are monolithic in nature, homogenous in consistency and solid through and through. There are no laminates to bubble and crack and no porosity to allow liquid penetration. Its unique manufacturing process produces a countertop that is sleek, durable and dependable.

"Elements is ideal for the discerning customer who desires a unique product for kitchen countertops, vanities, fireplace surrounds, and commercial applications," explained Mark Hanna, President of Montreal-based Leeza Distribution Inc., one of North America's leading distributors of premium countertops such as Durcon's Elements epoxy surfaces.

"Quartz is one of the hardest minerals found in nature and epoxy resin is inherently heat- and chemical-resistant. Elements provides the best of both materials in an entirely new residential surface option," he added.

Elements is an incredibly safe and durable countertop surface ideal for kitchens as it is certified NSF 51 for food preparation areas, naturally anti-fungal and anti-bacterial, a low VOC material, stain resistant, and boasts the highest heat resistance rating available.

"Elements is stylishly sleek with a distinctly silky feel that works beautifully with any decor," Hanna added. "From Old World to ultra-modern it provides a look that is very unique, timeless and clean."

As for colors, Elements surfaces come in seven attractive options or you can customize your own countertop colors to complement your decor. "This is a truly unique feature in the industry where you can actually select your own customized color," he added. More information on epoxy resin surfaces is available at leezadistribution.com.

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Bathroom Mold and Mildew Solutions

(MS) -- Want to give your bathroom a new look without dishing out loads of cash? While you're deciding on your decor and selecting a paint color, why not think about preventing one of the most common bathroom problems -- mold & mildew growth.

Cleaning can remove mold & mildew, but the trick to controlling it is to prevent it before it starts. Follow these steps from the mold & mildew prevention experts at Zinsser:

* Keep airflow constant. The combination of hot showers in small spaces creates an ideal environment for the growth of mold & mildew. Consider installing an exhaust fan or ceiling fan to improve ventilation in your bathroom. They can increase airflow and significantly slow the growth of mold & mildew. What if installing a fan isn't in your budget? Leaving your bathroom window slightly open when you shower can also help airflow.

* Eliminate moisture. Stagnant water produces moisture in the air and creates an ideal environment for the growth of mold & mildew. Limit excessive moisture by using a dehumidifier and by wiping down shower walls after each use.

* Clean infected areas. Treat bathroom surfaces with JOMAX(R) Mold Killer and Deodorizer. It's a ready-to-use cleaner and deodorizer that kills mold, while cleaning, disinfecting, and preventing the future growth of mold, mildew and bacteria. Plus, it eliminates tough odors, too!

* Use mold & mildew-proof paint. Apply two coats of Perma-White(R) Mold & Mildew-Proof* Interior Paint. This low-odor, durable, water-base paint is guaranteed to prevent the growth of mold & mildew on the paint film for 5 years. Plus, Perma-White is available in a beautiful white finish that can be tinted to any off-white, pastel or medium color you desire.

By using these steps -- and following a regular cleaning schedule -- you will enjoy a mold & mildew-free bathroom for years to come! For more prevention tips, visit www.zinsser.com.

CAPTION: Give your bathroom a fresh, clean look by keeping mold and mildew out.

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Landscape Fabric is Tough on Weeds, Easy on Environment

This article gives few reasons to justify why gardeners should use landscape fabric in the lawn and garden.

(MS) -- To use or not to use? That is the question many gardeners ask about landscape fabric.

Gardeners who install landscape fabric properly know it goes a long way toward minimizing maintenance. Most landscapes benefit from the use of landscape fabric. The barrier prevents sunlight from reaching weeds and keeps them from germinating while holding soil moisture in the ground and reducing surface evaporation. In the long run this saves gardeners time and money.

WeedBlock(R) Landscape Fabric was introduced to the lawn and garden industry back in 1983 for that very purpose. The manufacturer wanted gardeners to have more time to enjoy their gardens instead of spending much of their outdoor time pulling weeds. Over the years, WeedBlock has often been used as a cost-effective, chemical-free method for long-term weed control.

This year, the well-known landscape fabric brand has gone green. And everyone knows the "in" color for 2009 is definitely green: eco-friendly green.

The product line now includes three eco-friendly options that offer the same performance as traditional landscape fabrics and help gardeners reduce their ecological footprint.

Gardeners will find the eco-friendly WeedBlock landscape fabrics in local lawn and garden centers and at chain retailers. More information on the fabrics is available online at www.easygardener.com or by calling (800) 327-9462.

WeedBlock(R) Recycled(TM) keeps plastic bottles from piling up in landfills and puts them to use in the yard. The fabric is made from 100 percent recycled plastic bottles. When used as a stabilizing liner beneath hard surfaces like brick and concrete, it will help put a stop to the shifting and settling that happens over time.

OMRI-listed WeedBlock(R) Biodegradable Mulch is a thick, absorbent paper. It is non-toxic and pH neutral meaning there is never a need for disposal. It can be tilled back into the soil at the end of the growing season and is ideal for vegetable gardens. As the paper decomposes, the organic residue releases minerals that help build up nutrient levels and the extra matter improves soil structure thus aiding in erosion prevention.

Creative gardeners have found other uses for the heavy-duty product. It is an eco-friendly alternative to plastic drop cloths and an economic solution for protecting furniture and flooring during home decorating projects. The paper can also be used to protect floors and carpets from soiled shoes.

WeedBlock(R) Natural is the world's first weed control fabric made with annually renewable resources. The fabric is made with Ingeo(R) fiber, which is derived from starch-based vegetables like corn. This fabric does a great job controlling weeds in permanent planting areas such as shrubbery beds and rock gardens.

Eco-friendly landscape fabrics makes "going green" a cinch. This season, be one of the first to showcase the latest "in" color and make your lawn's low-maintenance summer style the envy of the neighborhood.

CAPTION: Go green -- WeedBlock Natural landscape fabric is made from annually renewable resources.

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How to Remove Bugs from Your Home

Just as people seem to come out of dormancy when the temperature rises, so do all of the bugs that share our indoor and outdoor spaces.

How many times have you been sitting watching television at night and noticed something long-legged nestled high where the ceiling and walls meet? What about the times you've ventured into the basement, turned on the light and seen something scurry quickly across the floor?

Many of the insects people encounter are relatively harmless and are more than content to stay out of individuals' ways. That doesn't negate the fact that there are plenty of people who are extremely skittish when it comes to bugs --especially when they are inside the house. Therefore they seek out any and all ways to rid bugs from the premises. Here are some methods to consider.

Call an exterminator: If bugs are a major issue, the choice is available to call in a professional exterminator. He or she will assess the insect problem and make a recommendation for a type of treatment. While many insect repellants have become much safer over the years, the potent products the exterminator uses may not be the best idea for houses where there are young children or pets, or you may have to stay out of the house for a few hours. The exterminator will be able to better inform you of the risks/benefits to treatment.

Self-applied products: If bugs are a minor nuisance, spot treatments with over-the-counter insect sprays, powders, etc. could be sufficient to keep bugs at bay. Target the areas where you often see bugs, and also treat areas to prevent access to other rooms, such as around doorways or by room thresholds.

Try greener approaches: There are products on the market today that attempt to control insects in a way that is safer to the environment and the residents of a home. Substances like diatomaceous earth, boric acid, pyrethrin, and others may be safer for use if you're concerned about chemical applications. Many of these items serve as a descicant, drying out an insect to extinguish it. Others repel insects with a smell or taste.

For those who are against harming the insects at all, but simply do not want them inside of the house, consider any number of bug vacuums. These devices safely suck up insects (the telescoping nozzles ensure you don't have to be too close) and store them inside. The insect can be safely released outdoors afterward. These items go by the name of Bug Vacuum, Super Bug Vacuum, BugZooka, Insect Vacuum, and more.

Make household changes:Many insects prefer a certain temperature or condition to thrive. Changing that condition could cause the bug to vacate the premises. If you discover a particular insect likes the damp areas of your basement (such as house centipedes or silverfish), invest in a dehumidifier to dry out that area. Some bugs, even roaches, come inside and hide in cardboard boxes. Others feed upon paper products. Take some time to do spring cleaning and rid storage areas of these items -- switching to plastic sealed containers. Go around and seal window and door openings. Insects can venture inside by way of the smallest crevices. While you can't hermetically seal your entire home, you can limit the number of bugs that get inside.

Household pet: Some cats like to stalk and kill insects, so you may have an effective exterminator on your hands and not even know it. There have also been instances where homeowners or store owners have allowed a gecko or chameleon to run free to keep indoor populations in check. But you should weigh your squeamishness about having a lizard versus insects.

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Elements epoxy countertops: The hot new trend Versatile surface rivals the durability of quartz, granite

(MS) -- For the past few years, quartz has been the fastest growing category of premium countertops because it provides the best balance of beauty, durability and style.
Designers, builders and architects are working with and specifying quartz more and more because of its unique appeal in combining depth and color consistency -- assuring the desired look is always achieved.

"Quartz countertops have the deep beautiful colors of granite without the problems and high-maintenance of porous stone," explained Mark Hanna, President of Montreal-based Leeza Distribution Inc., one of North America's leading distributors of HanStone Fine Quartz Surfaces and Durcon's Elements epoxy surfaces.

Quartz countertops, such as the industry's top rated HanStone surfaces, offer a sophisticated elegance and timeless beauty. They are stronger than granite and because they're nonporous, they require no resealing, are highly resistant to scratches, stains, and bacteria growth and come in 36 dramatic colors and patterns.

While popular brands of premium quartz surfaces, such as HanStone, are here to stay, this lasting quartz appeal has not escaped the radar of the industry leaders. As a result, there is now a new ultra-durable, sleek, stone-like surface available with an aesthetic quality and durability that rivals quartz and natural stone called Elements by Durcon Inc.

Elements countertops were originally created to withstand the harshest industrial and laboratory environments with a proprietary blend of epoxy resin and fine quartz formed through a unique manufacturing process, which creates an incredibly smooth and durable countertop surface.

"Elements is a truly unique surface unlike any other option available today," said Hanna. "Quartz is one of the hardest minerals found in nature and epoxy resin is inherently heat- and chemical-resistant. Elements provides the best of both materials in an entirely new surface option."

Ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, backsplashes, fireplace surrounds and commercial applications the countertops are monolithic in nature, homogenous in consistency and solid through and through. There are no laminates to bubble and crack and no porosity to allow liquid penetration. As a result, the countertops never require sealing, are anti-bacterial and anti-fugal, have earned NSF 51 certification for food preparation, are low VOC emitting, and offer the highest heat resistance of any material on the market.

Made in the U.S., elements features a contemporary look that is silky smooth, timeless and clean, making it the countertop surface of choice for any design style be it traditional elegance or contemporary minimalist. Available in seven basic colors or in customized colors of your choice its versatility is its strongest attribute. More information on epoxy and quartz surfaces is available at leezadistribution.com.

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