Photo: shutterstock.com

Let’s face it: Many homes today feature inadequate, poorly positioned, and sometimes plain-old ugly light fixtures. But you don’t have to live with anything you don’t love, especially when so many ceiling-mounted and hanging fixtures can be found on the market. Since new ceiling light fixtures come with mounting hardware, replacing an existing unit is easy—even for the novice do-it-yourselfer.

Step 1. Remove the old fixture
Turn off electricity to the room at the main circuit breaker panel. Double-check that power has been cut by locating and testing the light switch that controls your ceiling fixture. Next, carefully unscrew and remove the canopy of the old fixture. With the junction box visible, remove the wire nuts and separate the supply wiring from the old fixture. Carefully examine the wires for damage, and if none are frayed or broken, leave the wires exposed for the new fixture.

Step 2. Examine the junction box
Having confirmed that your existing junction box is securely fastened to the ceiling joist, make sure it will be sturdy enough to handle the weight of your replacement fixture. If the new fixture weighs substantially more than the old one, it may be necessary to install an accessory mounting strap or support rod. (Either can be installed next to the junction box so that, once installed, the fixture hides the hardware.)

Related: Trending Now: Pendant Lighting

Step 3. If installing a hanging fixture
Most hanging lights have a supporting chain or cable, through which (or next to) the wires should be threaded (or hung). I recommend using the paint tray of your stepladder to prop up the fixture, while you feed its wires up to the junction box. Carefully guide the fixture wires through the canopy, ceiling plate, and hanging bracket of your new fixture. Strip about a half-inch off of the fixture wires and about a half-inch off of the supply wires.

Photo: goodceilinglight.com

Step 4. Connecting the wires
Most new fixtures are color-coded with black and white wire. Twist together the stripped, bare end of the fixture’s black wire with the stripped, bare end of the supply line’s black wire. Secure the connection with a wire nut, then repeat the process with the white wire. Many fixtures also have a bare copper or green-sheathed ground wire, which should be twisted onto the mounting bracket’s copper or green grounding screw. Now carefully tuck the wires into the junction box, put a bulb in the fixture, and turn the circuit breaker on. If the light works, that means your wiring connections have been successful. Before continuing, turn the circuit breaker off again.

Related: 16 Spectacular Light Fixtures to Improve Your Space

Step 5. Securing the fixture
Screw the ceiling plate to the mounting strap or support rod, then put the mounting stem onto the ceiling plate. At this point, make sure that the installation is secure and that the fixture is hanging at the proper height. (If the chain is too long, you can remove links or loop the extra chain around the mounting stem.) Slide the canopy into place so that it covers the mounting hardware; tighten the locknut to hold the canopy in place. Finally, install the correct bulbs, turn the electricity back on, and admire the radiance of your new ceiling light fixture!

For more on lighting, consider:

How To: Devise a Lighting Plan
Bob Vila Radio: Types of Lighting
Choosing the Right Energy-Saving Bulb and Fixture

How To: Replace a Ceiling Light Fixture Home Improvement, Home Remodeling & Home Repair - BobVila.com

1. Bien Hecho

Photo: Water Tower Table from Bien Hecho

The utilitarian yet undeniably suave furniture of John Randall truly embodies the spirit of sustainability in design. His work features salvaged wood procured from all around New York, be it a Brooklyn demolition site or a dumpster at Coney Island. The table top here is of a handsome light cedar, which Randall reclaimed from a water tower in the Fort Greene neighborhood.

2.  Aellon

Photo: Duke Oval Coffee Table from Aellon

Named for the 45-year-old shipwreck whose wood it repurposes, Aellon’s “Grace” line sets a new course for sustainability, with the company upholding high standards both in design and operation. While its furniture honors Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) requirements and supports Trees4Trees, the studio itself observes a number of pro-planet best practices—using low-flow toilets, for example, and seasonally balancing the HVAC system.

3. 4Korners

Photo: Credenza47 by 4Korners

Scott Raffaele’s Credenza47 is an amalgam of wood species: mahogany, ipe, walnut and wenge. All are scraps from previous projects, and the piece is coated with an earth-friendly finish. Naturally.

4. Mark Jupiter

Photo: Storm Coffee Table by Mark Jupiter

Some know Mark Jupiter as a founding member of New World Home, a company that creates energy-efficient modular homes inspired by historical styles. Still others know him as a custom furniture maker, whose pieces are handcrafted from locally reclaimed materials. Though Jupiter’s reputation may precede him, this 500-year-old, storm-felled elm tree-cum-table speaks for itself, no?

5. Bower

Photo: Polaris Light from Bower

Despite being newcomers to the scene, Bower introduced its new Polaris Lamp to much excitement. Made from solid pieces of scrap wood, these geodesic fixtures are embedded with magnets that ingeniously allow for the lights to be moved around easily, depending on mood or the activity at hand. Only a couple of days ago, the Polaris beat out 33 competitors to win the Editor’s Choice Awards over at the sustainable design hub Inhabitat. Congratulations, Bower!

For more on furniture, consider:

Bob Vila Radio: Buying Furniture
Make a Statement with Your Mirror
5 Seating Picks from the International Contemporary Furniture Fair

5 Incredible Examples of Sustainable Furniture Design from BKLYN Designs 2013 Home Improvement, Home Remodeling & Home Repair - BobVila.com

Shaw's Sneak Away Polyester Carpeting

Whether you’re remodeling the whole house or freshening up only a few rooms, new floor coverings can revive spaces that have seen better days. Usually, more expensive carpeting retains its color and pile for a longer period of time than cheaper offerings.

Composition. Remember that carpeting is usually made of nylon, Olefin, polyester or acrylic fibers adhered to a mesh backing. If yours must withstand the demands of children, pets, and frequent family gatherings, nylon can’t be beat for durability. It’s know for colorfastness, stain-resistance, and a high level of resilience against everyday wear and tear.

Detail of Shaw's Sneak Away Polyester Carpeting

Density. Generally, the denser the pile yarn the longer the carpeting will keep its tight, thick appearance. With carpeting that has a loose pile, the fibers are likely to separate and relax over time, causing the floor covering to lose its plushness and color vibrancy.

Cleaning. If you plan to install carpeting in a high-traffic room, save yourself headaches by choosing an easy-to-clean product. Since it stands up to soil and stains, nylon is a popular choice, though in bathrooms and other similarly moist areas of the home, mildew-resistant Olefin may be the superior choice.

Healthy Home. Interested in creating an eco-friendly environment at home? Be wary of the fact that traditional carpeting is known to off-gas a mix of latex, polypropylene, polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride and other chemicals. Opt instead for carpeting composed of non-toxic, natural materials, such as wool, cotton, or even seagrass.

For more on interior design, consider:

12 Daring Doormats
How To: Clean an Area Rug
Bob Vila Radio: Recycling Carpet

How To: Choose Carpeting Home Improvement, Home Remodeling & Home Repair - BobVila.com

Photo: theblindguysaz.com

mp3_link

Listen to BOB VILA ON CORDLESS BLINDS or read the text below:

Cordless blinds and shades do cost more than other varieties, but they have some real advantages. They’re not only safer for pets and kids than corded ones, but they’re also sleek and smart, and available in a wide range of styles.

There are cordless options to suit any budget or style requirement, from low-end aluminum slats through premium wood blinds. And in addition to the ubiquitous cellular shade, you’ll now find cordless versions of top-down, bottom-up cellulars, which can be operated from either end. Even roman shades, in a variety of fabrics, can be found cord-free.

They’re easy to operate: just push or pull on the bottom rail to activate the concealed mechanism that raises and lowers the blind.

So when you’re looking for window coverings, consider going cordless. The higher price buys you not only beauty and convenience, but peace of mind.

Bob Vila Radio is a newly launched daily radio spot carried on more than 75 stations around the country (and growing). You can get your daily dose here, by listening to—or reading—Bob’s 60-second home improvement radio tip of the day.

For more on windows, consider:

Ordering Custom Window Treatments Online
Helpful Hints for Cleaning Window Blinds
Top Tips for Installing Window Treatments

Bob Vila Radio: Cordless Blinds Home Improvement, Home Remodeling & Home Repair - BobVila.com

Photo: window-blinds.net

Window blinds are an extremely popular decorating option. But for blinds to look their best, they require regular care and maintenance, and some very definite “dos and don’ts” govern their cleaning.

Sure, some cleaning methods can be used on all types of blinds, but there are in fact different ways to clean blinds depending on their construction. Following are some general cleaning tips as well as techniques for cleaning blinds of made of various materials:

General Cleaning

• Regular dusting with a microfiber duster, feather duster, or soft cloth is a benefit to all blinds. For best results, make sure the blinds are fully extended and that all of the slats are closed and facing the same way. Dust lightly, moving in the same direction as the slats, then turn 90 degrees and dust again. Tilt the slats in the opposite direction, then repeat.

• For heavier dust, use the small brush attachment of a vacuum cleaner to go over the blinds, working in the direction of the slats. When using the vacuum, make sure that the suction is on its lightest setting to avoid twisting or warping the slats.

Related: 10 Stained Glass Windows We Love

Photo: alanandheatherdavis.wordpress.com

• Blinds will need a more thorough cleaning once or twice a year. Take a microfiber cloth, terry towel, clean sock or cotton gloves and gently rub each slat from end to end, making sure to clean top and bottom. To remove heavier dirt and stains, you can lightly moisten the cleaning cloth with plain water or with a mixture of 25% white vinegar and 75% water.

• Specialized dusting tools are available; most feature “fingers” that enable simultaneous cleaning of multiple slats. These dusters (also known as “trickets”) are typically constructed of microfiber, soft cloth, or sponges, and they are found in many hardware stores and home improvement chains.

Metal and Vinyl Blinds

• These types of blinds can be cleaned with warm, soapy water; liquid dish soap works well. Remove the entire blind from the mounting hardware and place it in a bathtub or similar vessel (a kiddy pool in the yard, perhaps).

• Use a soft brush, sponge, or soft mop to go over both sides of the slats with warm, soapy water before rinsing thoroughly. A hand-held shower attachment or spray nozzle on the hose is ideal for rinsing. Make sure to rinse away all of the soap suds to avoid spotting.

• Dry the blinds with towels and re-hang. Make sure the blinds are open so that air can circulate between the slats.

• After drying, wipe each slat with a fabric softener sheet to help repel dust.

• For exceptionally dirty blinds, especially those in kitchens, use a degreaser, such as Fantastik, Simple Green, or 409.

Photo: customhomeandremodeling.net

Wood Blinds

• Most wood blinds are treated with a special finish to repel dirt and stains. Wood blinds can be cleaned with a good quality furniture polish and a soft cloth or clean sock. Spray the furniture polish on the cloth and wipe each slat individually. Avoid touching the cords.

• For heavier cleaning, you can use plain water, but be careful not to saturate the wood. Wipe excess water immediately to prevent spotting, discoloration, or warping.

Fabric Blinds

• Fabric blinds can be tricky to clean. For regular dust and dirt, use a vacuum cleaner, compressed air sprayer, or hair dryer.

• For heavier dust, wipe each slat gently with a dry sponge.

• If there are stains on the fabric, you can try sponging on warm water or mild liquid soap. Blot, don’t rub, because rubbing can damage the fabric. (Always test any cleaning product in an inconspicuous area before proceeding.)

• Extremely soiled fabric blinds may need professional cleaning.

A few things to watch out for when cleaning blinds:

• Be careful not to press too hard on metal blinds to avoid bending or damaging the slats.
• Don’t let water pool on blinds—this can cause spotting.
• Avoid using furniture oil on blinds; it can leave streaks and actually attract dust.
• Protect blinds when cleaning windows by spraying the glass cleaner onto a cloth rather than onto the glass.
• Never use abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals on blinds, because these products can scratch, discolor, or warp the slats.
• Do not use alcohol, baby wipes, or alkaline cleansers, as these contain harsh compounds that can stain or destroy the finish on the blinds.

Remember, regular dusting is key—taking a proactive approach to cleaning blinds will keep your window fashions looking fabulous!

For more on cleaning, consider:

How To: Clean an Area Rug
Top Tips for Cleaning Grout Lines
Cleaning Green: Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products for Your Home

Helpful Hints for Cleaning Window Blinds Home Improvement, Home Remodeling & Home Repair - BobVila.com

Photo: theexperthousepainter.com

How strong is your relationship with your spouse? Do you want to test it? Spend a weekend stripping wallpaper together! Just kidding: Whether you’re working solo or with help from a partner, it’s not so hard to remove wallpaper. As with so many do-it-yourself projects, preparation, patience, and perseverance will be a few of the most valuable tools you can bring to the job.

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT
Scoring tool
Wallpaper stripper
Garden sprayer or squirt bottle
Paint scraper/ putty knife
Scrubbing pad
Water
Optional: Electric steamer

DIRECTIONS
If you have strippable wallpaper, then you should be able to peel up a corner and remove big swaths. Not so fortunate? The following steps will help you remove wallpaper from virtually any surface:

1. Chill Out. Take a deep breath. This is going to be okay.

Scoring Tool. Photo: Sunset

2. Prepare the Wall. Roll your scoring tool over the entire wall in a random pattern, making small holes or slits in the wallpaper. This will allow your wallpaper stripper to seep in and soften the glue.

3. Apply Stripper. Mix your wallpaper stripper with warm water per instructions on the label, then spray this solution over the entire wall. Allow several minutes of soaking time.

4. Scrape. Begin removing the wallpaper with a paint scraper or putty knife. Note that a smaller blade is likely to work better in corners and close to doors or window frames, while a larger blade will be more efficient to use on uninterrupted wall expanses.

5. Repeat. Repeat steps #3 and #4 as necessary. You will get there! Promise.

6. Bring Out the Big Guns. Frustrated by an especially stubborn area? Try using an electric steamer to soften the glue further.

7. Scrub. With the wallpaper removed, work your way over the entire area with warm water and a scrub pad in take off any residual glue. If you plan to paint or apply another finish, allow the wall to dry thoroughly beforehand.

With any luck, the above process won’t consume your full weekend, and couples counseling won’t be necessary in its aftermath!

For more on decor, consider:

Make a Statement with Your Mirror
Ordering Custom Window Treatments Online
20 “Why Didn’t I Think of That” Ways to Decorate with Rope

How To: Strip Wallpaper Home Improvement, Home Remodeling & Home Repair - BobVila.com

Photo: yaleappliance.com

mp3_link

Listen to BOB VILA ON TYPES OF LIGHTING or read the text below:

The first type of lighting is called ambient lighting–that’s the general light in a room, and it often comes from an overhead fixture or recessed lights. Ambient light shouldn’t be too bright, since it can make a room seem cold or industrial.

Add extra light, as well as warmth and drama, by using what’s called accent lighting. Accent lighting includes lamps, wall sconces, or lights designed to highlight a particular object, such as a painting. Don’t overdo it on accent lighting, as too much of it can make a room feel chaotic.

The third kind of lighting is task lighting. As the name suggests, it’s light designed to help you with specific tasks – these include reading lamps by a chair, undercabinet lights to illuminate your kitchen counters, or a pendant light directly over a table.

Bob Vila Radio is a newly launched daily radio spot carried on more than 75 stations around the country (and growing). You can get your daily dose here, by listening to—or reading—Bob’s 60-second home improvement radio tip of the day.

For more on lighting, consider:

Pendant Lighting 101
Trending Now: Pendant Lighting
Bob Vila Radio: Lighting in Layers

Bob Vila Radio: Types of Lighting Home Improvement, Home Remodeling & Home Repair - BobVila.com

Photo: blindsforslidingdoors.com

When we moved out of the city and into our new home, we increased our window inventory more than three-fold. The windows we have are big and beautiful, but complicating matters is the fact they are custom sizes.

The thought of having a professional come to measure, order, and install window treatments made our wallets run for cover. Don’t get me wrong. Measuring and installation services are very well worth the money you pay, especially if you have a lot of windows. But if you don’t have a lot of money to spare, this is a job you can do yourself so long as you prepare properly and pay attention to detail.

Related: Know Your Window Styles: 10 Popular Designs

There are a wide selection of vendors who will make window treatments to order for you. You can measure yourself (with their online or over-the-phone guidance) and order through their catalogs or websites. Once your window treatments arrive, here are some top tips for getting those beautiful new shades or drapes up and looking gorgeous:

1. Have Your Tools and Hardware Ready
You will most likely need most or all of the following: a drill, screwdriver, anchors, level, measuring tape, and a ladder or step stool. (Optional is a friend for extra hands and moral support.) Have everything at your side, so you won’t get distracted in the middle of the installation process. It’s not rocket science, but it’s best to keep your concentration.

2. Read the Instructions
Open your box of window treatments carefully (do not use a razor blade or utility knife to avoid damaging them) and lay everything out to make sure you have all the pieces you need. It’s so exciting, you’ll want to dive right in, but resist the temptation and first things first, read through all of the installation instructions. They are generally not very long, and sometimes the order in which you do things makes a big difference.

Photo: Levolor

3. Measure Twice, Drill Once
Employ your measuring tape and level here. And definitely use a ladder or step stool for assistance. There is no need to strain—you want to see everything clearly. Make sure your shade or treatment is centered with the window or window frame. Most brackets and hardware from online vendors come with pre-drilled holes. Use those when measuring, and before drilling, mark the holes with a pencil.

4. Use Proper Anchors
If you are not drilling into a stud, then get the appropriate type of anchor for your wall type, rated for the weight of your window treatments. You may be tugging and pulling on these treatments several times a day, so you want to make sure the fasteners can handle the stress.

5. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help  
The customer service staff at the vendor can help you if you have questions. They have talked people through all of this before. Do not hesitate to reach out for their expertise!

If you have the time and fortitude to spare on a weekend to install window treatments yourself, you can save a boatload of money. And you’ll have the grand satisfaction and rewarding confidence that comes from knowing you are a totally capable DIYer. Once you’ve mastered hanging window treatments, you can move on to hanging cabinets! The sky’s the limit.

For more on decor, consider:

Say Yes to Salvaged Wood
5 Reasons to Love Subway Tile
20 “Why Didn’t I Think of That” Ways to Decorate with Rope

Top Tips for Installing Window Treatments Home Improvement, Home Remodeling & Home Repair - BobVila.com

Photo: theflooringdesigncenter.com

For many of us, area rugs are a significant investment in decor. They warm up and add color to our rooms. They provide soft places for game playing, movie watching, and slumber partying.

But in order for rugs to last for years, they need to be maintained. And a big part of that maintenance is regular cleaning. Sure, you can send out a rug to be cleaned off-site by professionals—but it ain’t cheap. If you’re willing to put in some time and energy, however, it’s eminently possible to do a good job of cleaning your own rugs at home.

As an added benefit, you’ll have peace of mind knowing exactly what types of cleaners are being used on your rugs—knowledge that’s increasingly important to many, especially those with young children or chemical sensitivities.

Related: Cleaning Green: Eco-Friendly Home Cleaning Products

TOOLS AND MATERIALS
Vacuum
Rubber gloves (optional)
Rug shampoo or mild dish detergent
Bucket
Sponge
Soft-bristled brush
Squeegee
Water—lots and lots of water (i.e., get your hose out!)

DIRECTIONS

Photo: carpetencyclopedia.com

1. Prepare the Rug. First, thoroughly vacuum the rug on both sides to remove any loose dirt.

2. Test for Colorfastness. Follow the mixing instructions on a store-bought rug cleaner/shampoo, or add a couple of capfuls of mild dish detergent to a bucket of warm water. Do not use hot water, as it may shrink fibers or fade color. Test the solution on a small corner of the rug to make sure it doesn’t make the colors run. If it doesn’t, proceed to the next step.

Photo: carpetcleaninglosangeles.net

3. Wash. Using a sponge or brush, work a lather of shampoo or detergent deep into the rug. Allow the solution to sit on the rug and work for several minutes before rinsing.

4. Rinse. Thoroughly rinse the rug with a garden hose, making sure the water is clear of soap suds before you finish.

5. Remove Excess Water. Squeeze as much water out of the rug as you can with your squeegee, being careful to work only in the direction of the rug’s nap.

6. Dry. Lay the rug flat to dry. Once the top side is dry, flip it over so the bottom can dry as well.

7. Loosen Fibers. Use a vacuum or soft-bristled brush to loosen up the fibers of the rug, as they may have compacted during the washing/drying process. Return your rug to the room and enjoy!

It’s important to wash rugs only when they’re dirty. To test whether or not your rug needs to be cleaned, pick up a corner of the rug and let it flop down onto the floor. If a little cloud of dust floats up, a cleaning is in order. Also, wash rugs when they are visibly dingy or have a noticeable odor.

With regular maintenance and cleaning, your rugs will serve your family and home for many years, playing host to scores of game tourneys, TV marathons, and fireside snuggles.

For more on carpets and rugs, consider:

How To: Choose an Area Rug
Bob Vila Radio: Recycling Carpet
Installing Wall-to-Wall Carpeting (VIDEO)

How To: Clean an Area Rug Home Improvement, Home Remodeling & Home Repair - BobVila.com

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And last, but certainly not least…

45. The Red Room in the White House.

Photo: whitehousemuseum.org

45 Ravishing Red Rooms Home Improvement, Home Remodeling & Home Repair - BobVila.com