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	<title>Progressive Home Remodeling Guides</title>
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	<link>http://www.progressive-remodeling.com</link>
	<description>DIY Articles on home remodeling and guides to hiring repairmen.</description>
	<lastBuildDate>Thu, 06 Oct 2011 06:14:34 +0000</lastBuildDate>
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		<title>How to Clean the Chimney of a Fireplace with Artificial Logs</title>
		<link>http://www.progressive-remodeling.com/articles/how-to-clean-the-chimney-of-a-fireplace-with-artificial-logs</link>
		<comments>http://www.progressive-remodeling.com/articles/how-to-clean-the-chimney-of-a-fireplace-with-artificial-logs#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 06 Oct 2011 06:10:08 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>RemodelMan</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Cleaning]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.progressive-remodeling.com/?p=24</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[It is extremely important for your home’s safety to clean your fireplace regularly to prevent fires. Artificial logs burn hotter than other types of wood because they are made with wood chips. Because artificial logs burn hotter, they can also &#8230; <a href="http://www.progressive-remodeling.com/articles/how-to-clean-the-chimney-of-a-fireplace-with-artificial-logs">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>It is extremely important for your home’s safety to clean your fireplace regularly to prevent fires. Artificial logs burn hotter than other types of wood because they are made with wood chips. Because artificial logs burn hotter, they can also create a greater fire risk than wood or gas fires.<span id="more-24"></span></p>
<p>To clean a fireplace that uses artificial logs you should first cover all furniture in the room. You may want to tape down the furniture covers so the covers do not move. Put on goggles and gloves before cleaning the fireplace because the fireplace will be very dusty and that dust could be harmful to your health. Use a bucket, small broom and shovel to remove ashes from the fireplace. Measure the inside of the chimney to determine what size chimney brush to use. Move the chimney brush up and down the chimney. Use a flashlight to look up the chimney to make sure it is clean.</p>
<p><img class="alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-25" title="Creosote Remover" src="http://www.progressive-remodeling.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Creosote-Remover-150x150.jpg" alt="creosote remover" width="150" height="150" />After you finish using the chimney brush, remove all soot and dust in the chimney place and the surrounding area. Lastly, you should consider using a creosote remover to slow creosote buildup in the chimney. You should clean your fireplace on a consistent basis and have the fireplace inspected yearly.</p>
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		<title>Ceilings &#8211; Stucco vs Drywall Ceilings</title>
		<link>http://www.progressive-remodeling.com/articles/ceilings-stucco-vs-drywall-ceilings</link>
		<comments>http://www.progressive-remodeling.com/articles/ceilings-stucco-vs-drywall-ceilings#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 06 Oct 2011 06:07:36 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>RemodelMan</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Remodeling]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.progressive-remodeling.com/?p=22</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Choosing between a stucco or drywall ceiling is an important decision that you should research carefully. There are pros and cons to both types of ceilings. To decide which material to pick, consider what your top priorities are and match &#8230; <a href="http://www.progressive-remodeling.com/articles/ceilings-stucco-vs-drywall-ceilings">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Choosing between a stucco or drywall ceiling is an important decision that you should research carefully. There are pros and cons to both types of ceilings. To decide which material to pick, consider what your top priorities are and match them to the material that best meets those qualities.<br />
<span id="more-22"></span><br />
Stucco ceilings are commonly referred to as popcorn ceilings. Stucco is easier to install and is less expensive than drywall. The texture of the stucco helps to reduce noise so stucco ceilings can be ideal in multiple unit complexes. Popcorn ceilings were first installed in homes in the 1930s and some people feel that stucco has a dated look. Popcorn ceilings are also more difficult to clean than drywall.</p>
<p>Drywall is made from <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gypsum">gypsum</a> and is light gray in color. There are different types of drywall so you should consider what room the drywall will be in when you purchase it. Drywall does not have the same dated look as stucco and can be painted easily to match the colors in any room. Drywall can be more difficult and time consuming to install than stucco so you may want to consider hiring a professional.</p>
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		<title>Carpenters- What Tools Can be Found In a Carpenter’s Pouch</title>
		<link>http://www.progressive-remodeling.com/articles/carpenters-what-tools-can-be-found-in-a-carpenter%e2%80%99s-pouch</link>
		<comments>http://www.progressive-remodeling.com/articles/carpenters-what-tools-can-be-found-in-a-carpenter%e2%80%99s-pouch#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 06 Oct 2011 06:03:44 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>RemodelMan</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Carpenters]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.progressive-remodeling.com/?p=19</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The mysterious carpenter’s pouch contains tools needed to install cabinet, install locks or complete a variety of other tasks around the house. While you can fill a carpenter’s pouch with a variety of helpful tools, there are several tools every &#8230; <a href="http://www.progressive-remodeling.com/articles/carpenters-what-tools-can-be-found-in-a-carpenter%e2%80%99s-pouch">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-20" title="Carpenters Pouch" src="http://www.progressive-remodeling.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/carpenters-pouch-300x300.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="300" />The mysterious carpenter’s pouch contains tools needed to install cabinet, install locks or complete a variety of other tasks around the house. While you can fill a carpenter’s pouch with a variety of helpful tools, there are several tools every carpenter’s pouch would be incomplete without.</p>
<p>A hammer is a carpenter’s pouch must have. Most carpenter’s prefer to use a framing hammer instead of a claw or curving hammer. A carpenter’s pouch should also contain a tape measure. Look for a tape measure that is sturdy and has a lock function. While a carpenter’s is hammering and measuring, he or she will also need a small, wooden pencil. <span id="more-19"></span>There should also be a torpedo level in any carpenter’s pouch. A torpedo level can be used to determine the true level of things like a wall stud.</p>
<p>Be sure to purchase quality tools when you are putting together a carpenter’s pouch. Buy tools from brands you trust and feel free to ask a sales associate for advice if you are unsure which tools to purchase.</p>
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		<title>Blinds- How to Clean Your Window Blinds</title>
		<link>http://www.progressive-remodeling.com/articles/blinds-how-to-clean-your-window-blinds</link>
		<comments>http://www.progressive-remodeling.com/articles/blinds-how-to-clean-your-window-blinds#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 06 Oct 2011 05:59:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>RemodelMan</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Cleaning]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.progressive-remodeling.com/?p=15</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Window blinds are a prime area for dust and dirt blind up. Blinds that are not cleaned regularly are not only unattractive, but could also cause health problems for people with allergies. Cleaning window blinds is not a chore that &#8230; <a href="http://www.progressive-remodeling.com/articles/blinds-how-to-clean-your-window-blinds">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Window blinds are a prime area for dust and dirt blind up. Blinds that are not cleaned regularly are not only unattractive, but could also cause health problems for people with allergies. Cleaning window blinds is not a chore that is included in most people’s list of favorite things to do, but luckily with these tips you should be able to clean blinds faster and more easily.<span id="more-15"></span></p>
<p>Your first step to clean the blinds should be to dust the blinds with a long, feather duster. Brush each blind gently with the duster to remove all dust. You can purchase a long feather duster at most home goods stores. If you do not have a feather duster then a soft rag will suffice.</p>
<p>Next, use a towel that is slightly damp or antibacterial wipes to clean buildup off of the blinds. If you have wood blinds, use a wood polisher on them. Apply the wood polisher to a towel and gently rub the towel in between each blind. To make this step easier, you can wrap the towel or antibacterial wipes around the feather duster to get in between each blind.</p>
<p>If you have metal blinds, you have to be careful not to bend them. It may be easier to remove metal blinds and rinse them with a hose. Metal blinds are the only type of blinds that can be cleaned with a hose so be sure to avoid doing this with any other type of blinds.</p>
<p>Lastly, a great way to help prevent dust buildup is to use dryer sheets on the blinds. Rub the dryer sheet using light to medium pressure on each side of the blinds.</p>
<p>It is ideal to clean blinds weekly. It is also preferable to deep clean the blinds in between regular cleanings. You should deep clean blinds approximately every three to six months to keep them looking clean and new.</p>
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		<title>Infrared Barbecue Grills &#8211; How Do They Work?</title>
		<link>http://www.progressive-remodeling.com/articles/infrared-barbecue-grills-how-do-they-work</link>
		<comments>http://www.progressive-remodeling.com/articles/infrared-barbecue-grills-how-do-they-work#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 06 Oct 2011 05:58:03 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>RemodelMan</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Barbecue Grills]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.progressive-remodeling.com/?p=13</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Infrared barbecue grills claim to cook food in half the time it takes an ordinary grill, which leaves many curious about how these grills accomplish that feat. Infrared grills have to heat up to 700 degrees Fahrenheit in around seven &#8230; <a href="http://www.progressive-remodeling.com/articles/infrared-barbecue-grills-how-do-they-work">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Infrared barbecue grills claim to cook food in half the time it takes an ordinary grill, which leaves many curious about how these grills accomplish that feat. Infrared grills have to heat up to 700 degrees Fahrenheit in around seven minutes in order to grill foods at such a fast pace. Meat cooks on infrared grills in about one minute per side and the heat is said to not dry out meat.<span id="more-13"></span></p>
<p>In order to reaches temperatures this high, infrared burners focus the grill fame onto a ceramic tile. The tile contains thousands of microscopic holes that convert heat into infrared energy. Standard grills do not contain these ceramic tiles and are therefore incapable of producing heat that is as hot and consistent as infrared grills.</p>
<p>Despite its advantages, infrared grills have received negative attention because they can be extremely powerful. Fish and vegetables are much harder to cook on infrared because they do not stand up well to high temperatures. To resolve this issue, some infrared grill manufacturers installed special burners to cook fish and vegetables. Since infrared grills cook at a significantly hotter temperature it is also easier to make mistakes when using these grills. It will likely take time and even a few failed attempts before someone is adept at using an infrared grill.</p>
<p>Until now, infrared grills have been extremely expensive. TEC, the company who released this technology, obtained a patent to prevent other companies from following suit. This patent has now expired and other companies are quickly getting into the infrared market.</p>
<p>If you are interested in purchasing an infrared grill some good brands to consider include Alfesco and Altima. TEC’s infrared grill also obtains high marks and has a loyal consumer base. The majority of these grills range in price from 1,500 to 5,000, but you may be able to find quality models below that price range.</p>
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		<title>Canopies &#8211; The Best Way to Clean Canvas Awnings</title>
		<link>http://www.progressive-remodeling.com/articles/canopies-the-best-way-to-clean-canvas-awnings</link>
		<comments>http://www.progressive-remodeling.com/articles/canopies-the-best-way-to-clean-canvas-awnings#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 06 Oct 2011 05:43:12 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>RemodelMan</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Cleaning]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.progressive-remodeling.com/?p=11</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Canvas awnings canvases can be both functional and decorative. A canvas awning can be the first thing someone sees when they enter your home or business so it is important that the canvas awning makes a good impression. Unfortunately, canvases &#8230; <a href="http://www.progressive-remodeling.com/articles/canopies-the-best-way-to-clean-canvas-awnings">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Canvas awnings canvases can be both functional and decorative. A canvas awning can be the first thing someone sees when they enter your home or business so it is important that the canvas awning makes a good impression. Unfortunately, canvases awnings often collect water. The water buildup can cause <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mildew">mildew</a> to grow in the canvas awning if it is not cleaned regularly. Mildew buildup can quickly make a canvas awning look dirty and unattractive. The mildew can also create a health hazard so it is extremely important to prevent mildew buildup.<span id="more-11"></span></p>
<p>To clean the canvas awning, make a mixture of half warm water and half dishwashing liquid in a large bucket. Climb onto a ladder until you are at the height of the awning and brush off any loose debris. Use a brush with soft fibers to gently scrub the awning. It is helpful to use a large brush to complete this step as awnings are typically large. Make sure you clean under the awning to get both sides of it. Finally, use a water hose to rinse away the soap mixture. It is helpful to apply a waterproofing canvas fabric sealant on the awning after you clean it.</p>
<p>Another method to clean canvas awnings is to put powdered laundry detergent into a pressure washer. Keep the pressure at the lowest possible setting and be extremely cautious when you use it. Canvas awnings can often tear easily so you do not want to apply too much pressure.</p>
<p>If you are uncomfortable cleaning the canvas awning on your own, seek help from a professional company. Search local databases and ask trusted friends and relatives for suggested businesses to work with. Sales associates at a local hardware store might also be good resources for helping you find a company that cleans canvases awning.</p>
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		<title>Architects &#8211; What Does an Architect Do?</title>
		<link>http://www.progressive-remodeling.com/articles/architects-what-does-an-architect-do</link>
		<comments>http://www.progressive-remodeling.com/articles/architects-what-does-an-architect-do#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 06 Oct 2011 05:40:52 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>RemodelMan</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Architects]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.progressive-remodeling.com/?p=9</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Architects create building plans that are used when constructing a building. Architects will typically make models of the buildings they plan to build out of cardboard or plastic. Architects create the designs for any type of building including homes, skyscrapers &#8230; <a href="http://www.progressive-remodeling.com/articles/architects-what-does-an-architect-do">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Architects create building plans that are used when constructing a building. Architects will typically make models of the buildings they plan to build out of cardboard or plastic. Architects create the designs for any type of building including homes, skyscrapers and hospitals. To carry out the building plan, architects work closely with construction crews.<span id="more-9"></span></p>
<p>Architects are experts at making sure a building is functional. For example, the design for a hospital will be much different than the design for a shopping mall. Architects ensure these buildings have enough space for what it will be used for and that the building is organized in a way that will optimize the space.</p>
<p>Good architects will also ensure that the building they create is safe and will be able to stand up to extreme weather conditions and fires. Architects have to consider how individuals in the building will exit it in case of an emergency and how to design buildings that might be susceptible to fires or flooding.</p>
<p>Architecture is also considered an art form much like painting or drawing. Architects send lots of their time deciding how to make the building look as visually appealing as possible while still maintaining its functionality.</p>
<p>To find an architect in your area, check local databases or ask people you know for recommendations. You should also insist to speak with the actual architect who will be working on your project so you can get to know that person. When you first meet the architect, be sure to ask about their experience, the estimated turnaround time for the project and the price range. You may want to consider asking the architect for references from former clients. Ask to see <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blueprint">blueprints</a> or other examples of the architects work to ensure that person is a good fit for your project.</p>
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		<title>Appliances &#8211; How to Purchase Safe Appliances</title>
		<link>http://www.progressive-remodeling.com/articles/appliances-how-to-purchase-safe-appliances</link>
		<comments>http://www.progressive-remodeling.com/articles/appliances-how-to-purchase-safe-appliances#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 06 Oct 2011 05:35:51 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>RemodelMan</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Appliances]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Safety]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://progressive-remodeling.com/?p=7</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When you purchase appliances you should be prepared to differentiate between which appliances are the safest. It is easy to become tempted to buy appliances solely based on price, but safety should also be a top priority. Appliances are often &#8230; <a href="http://www.progressive-remodeling.com/articles/appliances-how-to-purchase-safe-appliances">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>When you purchase appliances you should be prepared to differentiate between which appliances are the safest. It is easy to become tempted to buy appliances solely based on price, but safety should also be a top priority. Appliances are often at work when we are in other rooms or out of the house so it is extremely important to only use safe appliances in your home.<span id="more-7"></span></p>
<p>There are several companies that issue safety certifications to help you make quick decisions about which appliances are the safest, Underwriters Laboratories (UL) issues one of the most trusted safety certifications for appliances and other home electronics. Check package labels to look for safety certifications.</p>
<p>You should also buy products from a trusted brand that has a good track record. Pay close attention to labels and make sure the brand is not a knock off of a popular brand. Keep up with product recalls and information in the news about popular brands to ensure there are no issues with that brand.</p>
<p>Sales associates at local hardware stores can also provide reliable advice about which brands have the best track records for safety. Ask the sales associate if any other customers have complained about the product or if they are aware of any safety issues with the product.</p>
<p>Appliance safety does not stop after you purchase an appliance. Be sure to read the user manual carefully to make sure you always use the appliance in a safe manner. Pay close attention to warning signs that the appliance is becoming unsafe. These signs might include problems with the electrical cord or an abnormal smell coming from the appliance when it is in use.</p>
<p>If you are concerned that an appliance is becoming unsafe, replace it as soon as possible. The expense of purchasing a new, safer appliance will outweigh any negative consequences of using an unsafe appliance.</p>
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