How To Download And Set Up an FTP Program

There are a number of things about designing and building your own website which cause confusion and uncertainty to those who are new to this activity. FTP, which stands for File Transfer Protocol, is one of those things that always seems to confuse and intimidate people who are new to website design. Part of this confusion is probably because the full name ‘File Transfer Protocol’ seems to shed no light on understanding what it is, what it does, or what it is used for. In this article I shall attempt to shine a light on this mysterious creature and take the reader through the process of downloading and installing a free and popular program to make FTP available to them.

First, to shed some light on the name ‘FTP’, or File Transfer Protocol’: the word ‘Protocol’ is used in it’s usual everyday sense that it is a set of rules or guidelines by which something is done. So, simply put, a File Transfer Protocol is a set of rules or guidelines by which files can be transferred from one computer to another over the internet or a network. This sometimes doesn’t make any sense to people who don’t understand computers because they don’t realize that many different computers use many different codes. If you have a file on one kind of computer and you want to use it on another kind of computer then without a set of guidelines, or a ‘protocol’, to ‘translate’ the file from one computer to another it would not be possible. FTP is a form of code which helps you when you move a file from one computer to another. Think of FTP as a ‘translator’ or ‘interpreter’ working in the United Nations so that all the different countries can talk to each other and settle their differences.

And that’s it: simple isn’t it? Often people don’t believe it is quite as simple as that but it is. There is nothing else to understand about FTP unless you are about to start programming, which you’re not.

The other thing that helps to make FTP appear confusing and complex is the fact that you often use a program to do it: These are called ‘FTP Clients’. FTP Clients manage the ‘translation’ from one computer to another and will allow you to upload files, which is to send files to the server; or download files, which is to get files from the server. They will also allow you to make changes to files on the server. FTP and the FTP Client are essential ingredients of a web designer, or website owner’s toolkit. There are very many different designs of FTP Clients, many are free and many will cost money to buy. Many operating systems have an FTP client integrated within them and browsers such as Firefox have an FTP client which can be installed and used as part of the browser. You will need to have an account with a web host before using an FTP Client, but so long as you do have a web hosting account then you can use an FTP Client to transfer your site and all your files to the web host, and back again.

One of the most popular free FTP Clients is ‘FileZilla’; it is easy to download and use and, if you are using Windows XP, then I can take you through the steps – although I doubt they are very different if you are using another operating system. I am using Firefox 2, and so if you are using any other browser there may be some slight differences, but nothing major:

The simplest way to download Filezilla is to go to the Google search page and type ‘download.com filezilla’ into the search field and the very top result will be for Filezilla at the download.com website. Click on the link and you will see the name of Filezilla with a big blue link below it saying ‘download now’. Click that and a small window will appear with a button saying ‘save file’ – click to save the file and you will download the software automatically. It will take a few seconds to download.

Now look for the new icon on your desktop; it will be called ‘Filezilla set up’ or something similar. Double click the icon. The first thing you will see is a small window asking you to select your language, make sure it says English (or whatever your preferred language is) then click the ‘ok’ button. A license agreement window will appear; click ‘next’. The next page will ask you to ‘choose components’ – ion most cases the defaults are perfectly ok for most installations so I suggest you agree with the selection and click ‘next’. You will now be asked where you want to install the software, in most cases the default location is your program folder, which is fine; if you want to install it elsewhere then type the location in here, otherwise just click ‘next’. You will now be asked to choose a start menu folder, again, the default will be fine, click ‘next’. You will now be asked to decide on some general settings, if you are using a shared computer then select ‘use secure mode’ otherwise leave all settings as they are and click ‘Install’. The software will now be installed onto your computer; this will only take a few seconds and then you will be asked to close the window – click ‘close’.

You will now have a new icon on your desktop, coloured maroon and blue with a big ‘FZ’ on it and called ‘Filezilla’. You can put the original download file into your recycle bin and delete. Double click the new icon to start your FTP Client.

To use the FTP Client to transfer files between your computer and your web host you will first have to set it up. After double clicking to start up the FTP Client, click on the ‘File’ menu and select ‘Site Manager’. A new window will appear, find the button which says ‘new site’ and click it. A folder will appear in the main area of the window, type the name of your site into the new folder which appears.

Get your login details for your web host, because you’ll need them now. Under ‘Host’ type in the FTP address of your website; this will be a website address beginning with ‘ftp’ in a format such as: ftp.siteforge.net or else it will be a number series in a format such as: 88.88.888.88 – either will do. If the boxes below are greyed out then your site manager is set to anonymous login. To input your login details deselect ‘anonymous’ and select ‘normal’ for Logon and input your username and password for accessing your web host. You can now click ‘connect’ and your FTP Client will connect to your web host and you can upload or download files for your site.

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How To Buy Ballroom Dance Shoes

Buying the right Latin shoes can be tricky. There are so many different types to choose from and different shoes for different levels. There are a few guidelines that will help any one who is interested in buying dancing shoes. Buying the right shoe makes a huge difference in how you dance. It is amazing what the right shoe can do for you. Here are a few steps to help in purchasing Latin shoes.

1. If you are a beginning dancer buy a shoe that has a lot of support. NEVER buy shoes with a heel higher than two inches. This changes where your center is and unless you are skilled this will ruin your center and balance.
2. Don’t buy an expensive pair at first. When you are learning, it doesn’t really matter what brand of shoe you have.
3. When fitting for ballroom shoes make sure they are a little snug. They stretch out and you want your big toe to be at the very edge of the shoe or slightly over.
4. When you improve and are ready for the skinnier/higher heal the type of shoe you get is very important.
5. It is important to get a shoe that is more flexible because you are doing more difficult steps.

Here are some brands that I feel are high quality shoes that look great.
Supadance is one of the top brands. They are based out of England are a little more expensive. There are local vendors but it is cheaper to buy directly from them and pay the shipping costs. These shoes are very flexible but they wear out very fast so expect to buy them often.

International Shoes is another great brand. Their shoes are a little stiffer than Supadance but they last longer. They have more support as well. Ray Rose shoes are great. They are the most flexible of all the brands and they have a great feel and support. This is my favorite brand. There are many other brands but those are the top three that I have tried.

HOW TO BUY STANDARD SHOES

Buying standard shoes is different than buying Latin shoes. Latin shoes have an open toe and standard shoes are closed toe. This is very important in how you dance each dance. You can’t have the same shoes for both styles. There aren’t as many tips for standard shoes as there are for Latin shoes because you don’t need as much flexibility as with Latin.

There are a few things to be aware of how ever.

1. When purchasing standard shoes always get them so the fit tight. They will stretch out.
2. They now offer shoes with buckles. These are great because the shoes in the past could fall off. I recommend this type of shoe.
3. Get shoes with the flare heal. This adds balance and it looks more professional.
4. Never buy and open toe shoe. Standard shoes have to be closed toe.
5. The brand that I loved the most was Supadance. I tried other brands but they didn’t come close in the way they look and feel. I would only buy Supadance standard shoes.

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How to Set Stepping Stones

Stepping stones can make a perfect path through a backyard or garden. They can also take the place of unattractive concrete sidewalks and add a decorative element to a yard. Here’s how to set stepping stones.

Determine Your Stepping Stone Location

Your first task is to determine where the stepping stones should be located. Look for worn areas of your yard or pathways that you’ve already worn into the ground. Also consider stepping stones in boggy areas of the yard.

Measure

To measure the placement of the stepping stones, walk the pathway normally. Stepping stones should be set at the distance of a natural step, so drop a pebble, spray a bit of paint or use another means of marking the ground when you take a step. Then count up the number of stones you need.

Purchase Your Stepping Stones

Purchase stepping stones that suit your outdoor space and budget. Decorative stepping stones are beautiful and make a fun path, but basic concrete stepping stones may be easier on the budget.

Place the Stepping Stones

Dig a shallow hole slightly wider than the stone and not quite as deep. Layer the bottom of the hole with sand about ¼ of an inch thick. For tougher soils, such as clay, consider using additional sand. Place the stone into the hole and stand on it to set it in place. Wiggle around a bit and bounce to ensure it is firmly set. When it is completely set, pack the dirt back around the stone to set it in place. Complete the procedure with the remaining stones to create an entire stepping stone path.

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How to Build a Garden Path

A well-designed garden path not only leads you through your garden, but keeps your feet dry and protects your plants from being damaged. Ideally, a path invites you into the garden, leading you under beautiful branches and around trickling fountains, and even over garden bridges. By following a few easy steps, you can build a garden path that does all of this and even more.

Plan Your Route

Whether your path is intended to lead from the driveway through the garden to the front door, or from the patio to a secluded bench, the first step is to plan your route. If your path is prone to heavy traffic and is more utilitarian than superfluous, a straight and wide path that gets the traveler where they want to go is best. This doesn’t mean your path will be boring.

Plant interesting foliage along the path and add garden ornaments to keep the path attractive. A secondary path that might branch off of the main path can be narrower, since it is not expecting the heavy traffic flow, and might twist and turn a bit more. Instead of twisting and turning at random, make your curves seem practical—bending the path around an existing tree or placing a boulder in the nook of the curve.

Choose a Material

When choosing a material, it is important to consider again the purpose of your path, as well as your budget. You can use materials from sand or mulch, which can be free, to relatively expensive cut stone or pavers. Keep safety in mind. For primary paths, use a surface material that will be safe whether it is wet or dry, and will not slip or become uneven. Also, consider the style of your house. The material you use for your path should blend in or complement the style of the existing house and other structures.

Install the Path

The exact method of installation will depend on the type of material you chose. Regardless of the material, however, you will need to ensure good drainage so you are not creating a swamp or bog instead of a path. Additionally, you’ll probably use a base and some edging to ensure a level path. Once you have your path, you’ll love to use it and you will take great pride in knowing you created it.

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How To Clean Leather

One of the first fabrics that man fashioned to wear or use, leather has been a popular material from its beginnings. Leather is a beautiful, longwearing, breathable, natural fabric that has multiple uses, i.e., clothing, shoes, furniture, luggage, and vehicle interiors. This valuable fabric is an investment that will last for years if it is treated with care. Owners want to know how to correctly clean leather products because leather can be quickly ruined if handled incorrectly.

Leather hides can be categorized as belonging to several types, depending on the process to preserve the hides. The piece of leather can be smooth, suede, dyed in a variety of ways, coated, or tanned naturally. The dye used to color the fabric can be of different types that demand different handling. A product that works beautifully on one type of leather can permanently stain a different type. It is important to read any manufacturer’s instructions to understand what type of finish was used to create the item.

There are general rules for how to clean leather, however. These rules apply to how to clean car upholstery, belts, purses, jackets or other clothing, as well as furniture, luggage, and leather shoes. All leather needs an environment that is not too wet, not too dry, not too hot, or not too cold. Any extremes in the atmosphere can cause irreparable harm to the hides.

Let’s start off by identifying two types of leather. There is finished leather and there is unfinished leather. It is very good to know what type of leather you have so that you may treat it properly. Finished leather consists of the finer leather on coats or purses. Luggage and leather furniture is usually finished as well.

On the other hand, you have unfinished leather items as well. Unfinished leather consists of work gloves, garden gloves, boots that you use for work, biker bandannas, horse saddles, any type of saddle, basketballs and footballs.

Let’s start with cleaning finished leather. To clean finished leather, you must get a lightly dampened cloth with a dab of moisturizing bath soap (dove) on the cloth. Rub the leather in a circular motion and make sure that there is not too much water on the cloth. You don’t want to stain the leather more because of an access of water. After wiping the leather until the stain is gone, you can then take another dampened cloth to wipe off any soap residue. Remember, DO NOT us water to wipe the leather clean. After cleaning the leather with the second dampened cloth, you can now wipe it clean with a dry cloth and hang the leather product to air dry. It’s a good idea to apply a leather conditioner to the leather once it is dry.

To clean unfinished leather, you will follow the same steps stated above. However, you must use “Saddle soap” instead of moisturizing soap.

Remember when removing spots from leather, always test any cleaning method on an out-of-the-way spot first.

One tip for removing spots from leather is to dip a cotton swab into rubbing alcohol and rub the spot. This can work for removing ink spots (figure B) as well. If this doesn’t work, you can use non-oily cuticle remover. (Note: That is "cuticle" remover, not nail-polish remover.) Leave it on overnight and wipe it off with a damp cloth.

To remove normal spots from leather, use the following Royal homemade recipe:

1 part lemon juice
1 part cream of tartar

Simply work the paste into the spot with a soft cloth, and if soils remain after working it in, let it sit for a few hours. Come back and apply a little more paste, work it in and wipe clean.

Instructions for more targeted stains

Grass Stain:

1. Mix 1 cup of water with moisturizing soap.

2. Moisten a cloth with the mixture.

3. Apply cloth with a circular motion on the stained area

4. Wipe clean with another cloth dampened by water only

5. Let air dry

Mildew stain:

1. Mix 1 cup rubbing alcohol with 1 cup water.

2. Moisten a cloth with the mixture and wipe the affected area.

3. Let air dry.

Ink stain:

1. Spray the affected area with hair spray.

2. Then wipe it off with a clean cloth.

3. If a leather garment has been soaked in water, let it air dry

slowly and naturally.

4. Keep it away from heat sources.

5. Once it is dry, restore its softness with a leather conditioner.

6. If leather shoes have been soaked, insert shoe trees to restore their shape and let them air dry.

Grease stains:

1. These can be removed by blotting the excess grease with a clean cloth.

2. Second, sprinkle talcum powder or cornstarch on the affected area.

3. Let the item sit for at least 4 hours before wiping off the powder.

Blood and urine spills:

These can be removed by blotting off excess moisture with a clean, damp cloth. Let the item dry slowly away from heat.

Gum that has become stuck to the leather:

1. You can remove it by rubbing a plastic bag full of ice cubes over it to harden the gum. The gum will then be easy to pull off.

2. If there is any residual, heat the area with a hair dryer and rub off the gum with a clean cloth.

Salt stain:

1. Make a solution of 3 parts vinegar to 1 part water.

2. Moisten a cloth with the vinegar solution and dab it on the affected area.

We have outlined how to properly take care of your leather possessions in this article. Leather is a delicate item and can last forever if taken care of properly. We understand that some stains might entail more than just a cleaning. Do not hesitate to hire professional leather cleaner to help you. Remember to ask that professional for a guarantee that your leather will come back that way that you would like it. They need to be legit. They need to return your article back with the same color that the item was in the beginning. If they cannot help with these simple items, then you might need to get a second opinion.

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How To Clean a Mattress

Let’s be honest. Most people are never going to see your mattress much less a stain that is on your mattress. But, as they say "cleanliness is next to godliness" and it’s been proven by scientists most illnesses start in your bedding.

The purpose of this article is to help you clean your mattress using either commercial products or things you probably have in your kitchen. We will teach you the ins and outs of cleaning stains from urine to mold, smoke odors to kool-aid!

There are a few solutions out there that can be of assistance, and a variety of products that can be used as mattress cleaners that will do the trick. Some highly recommended products include Natures Miracle, Bane-Clene which is great for allergies, and a well recommended mattress cleaner used by the hotel industry called ProKlean, which seems to work very well. If you do not have any of these, we will show you how to use around the house items that will help clean as well.

A good quality upholstery shampoo usually does the job, and you can get them just about anywhere. REMEMBER, the quicker you treat the affected surface, the easier it will be to remove the odor and stain. So, if you happen to have upholstery shampoo in your home, try that first.

I can’t think of anything worse than buying a new pillow top mattress, and then finding out that your dog has just urinated on it! You always have the option to call a professional mattress cleaner, but sometimes the situation can be a little embarrassing, not to mention fairly costly. It’s always better just to do our own dirty work when we can.  The best way to clean your mattress is to keep it clean> by using a mattress protector. A mattress protector is waterproof, dust mite proof and allergen proof and will provide you a healthy, clean sleeping environment. There are varieties of mattress covers that add softness or are waterproof to protect a mattress, but a full mattress cover is waterproof, is free or allergens and protects against dust mites. The mattress cover provides a clean, sleeping environment. A Mattress Firm Sleep Expert can show you the line of mattress protectors that are carried by the store.

How to clean a mattress:

For stains of an unknown nature:

1. Spray a citrus based cleaning product on the soiled area.
2. Let it stand for approximately five minutes to penetrate the stain.
3. Always use an absorbent cloth to blot the stained area.
4. Press down firmly without rubbing for 30 seconds.
5. Repeat this blotting process until the area is dry and odor free.

*As an alternative, you can use a mild dish detergent for spot cleaning. Blot the stain with the detergent and wipe it clean with a damp sponge.

How to clean urine stains and odors

Accidents happen and are sometimes really embarrassing. Urine can saturate absorbent materials such as mattresses well beyond the surface area. If the urine has been deeply absorbed by the mattress, it may take a little more time to clean than usual. Remember, if you do not act quickly, the urine can create ideal conditions for bacteria and mold growth and the related unpleasant odors.

Here are the steps to clean urine and odor from your mattress:

1. First! Blot up as much of the urine as possible with an absorbent cloth.
2. Then spray a product like PAWS – Pet Accident Washup Solution or Bio-OX Citrus Concentrate or any other brand that mentions urine odor removal on its label on the soiled area.
3. Follow up with the blotting and drying techniques indicated above.

Another great stain remover is vinegar.

1. Saturate the stain with vinegar and blot until no more of the urine can be removed.
2. Cover the area with baking soda to neutralize the odor, leaving it on overnight.
3. In the morning, vacuum the powder off.

How to remove Cigarette odor

While smoking in bed is a high risk for starting a fire, many people still like to light one up while getting ready to hit the sack.  Smoke has a great way of working in the fibers and cloth of the mattress, and they can create an unpleasant odor if not treated correctly.

1. Working in sections, use the citrus cleaner technique specified above.
2. Repeat the cleaning and blotting process in each section of the mattress until the whole thing is dry and odor free.

Another great option is Baking Soda!

1. Sprinkle the whole top of the mattress with baking soda.
2. Leave it there overnight to absorb and neutralize the odors.
3. In the morning, vacuum the powder off.

How to remove mold and mildew stains and odors

Mold and mildew can be a difficult stain to clean, especially if they have penetrated deep inside the mattress< .

1. Use the same citrus cleaner techniques indicated above.
2. Since mold and mildew are caused by moisture, it might be beneficial to run a dehumidifier, heater or air conditioner in the room periodically to take the dampness out of the air.

One more way to clean mold and mildew

1. Take the mattress outside on a sunny day.
2. Sweep off all visible mold and mildew.
3. Vacuum the mattress with a heavy duty vacuum cleaner.
4. Allow the sun to shine on the mattress for several hours. This will dry and freshen it.

How to remove Kool-Aid stains from mattresses

We don’t know of a kid that doesn’t love Kool-aid!  To answer all of your inquiries about how to clean Kool-aid, here it is.

1. First off, we need to realize that kook-aid is a liquid, and a mattress will soak up any type of liquids. It is good to note that it is impossible to remove the entire liquid spill from inside the mattress.
2. The dyes in Kool-Aid generally leave a permanent stain, but you can try to remove the surface stain.
3. You must blot up as much of the liquid as possible with an absorbent white cloth. Use the citrus cleaner techniques shown above.

One more method:

1. To remove as much liquid from the mattress as possible, cover it with a thick cloth and weigh the cloth down with a heavy book or brick.
2. After the hour is up, spray the stain with vinegar again and blot it with a clean cloth to lift the color.
3. Repeat the process until the stain is completely removed or no further reductions of stain color occur.

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How to Sod a Lawn

If you’ve recently moved into a new home or have decided to build up your backyard, the fasted way to get grass into the yard is to sod your lawn. Sodding is simply taking large rectangles of cut grass complete with about an inch of dirt, and placing them onto the ground. Sodding requires a bit of preparation and can also be backbreaking labor if you’re not used to being outside moving heavy items, so sod your lawn on a day when you’re ready to break a serious sweat.

Prepare the Lawn

Before you sod, you need to prepare your lawn by raking and removing all stones and rubble. If your lawn is not smooth, a tiller can help to break up the soil so that you can flatten your yard prior to sodding. Then, once you have a level surface free of obstacles, you should prepare the earth by fertilizing it and waiting a week.

After a week’s wait, till the yard again and fertilize. At this point, you can order your sod online or arrange delivery through a local vendor. You might buy rolls of sod, or squares of sod. Either will work for your project. Immediately prior to the sod’s arrival, you should water your yard to provide moist dirt. You want the dirt moist, but not muddy. So watering a day before laying sod is the perfect time. This will also let you check for any drainage issues you can correct before laying sod.

Lay Sod

Once your lawn is prepared and your sod has arrived, it’s time to plant your lawn. Begin along a straight line and arrange the sod in careful rows. You should press each piece of sod firmly against its neighbor to minimize spacing. Create long rows of sod careful to stagger the joints. You don’t want all the seams running alongside each other both vertically and horizontally.

A carpet knife or utility knife will allow you to cut the sod to fit in the odd shaped portions of your yard to give you a perfect fit. As you lay the sod, avoid walking on it. Work from the outside corner in.

Final Steps

The final step to finish your new sod is to roll over it with a lawn roller. This helps the roots to get established more quickly in the yard. A lawn roller can often be rented, much like a tiller, from a local hardware store. Continue to avoid walking on the lawn if possible until roots become established.

Water the sod daily for the first week and water it deeply. Then, unless it is very hot, begin to water every other day and then every three days until you’re watering only as frequently as necessary. This helps the roots to grow deeply into the soil to reach moisture. Do not cut the lawn until 3-4 weeks after the sod was laid.

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How to Choose a Doormat

A doormat has a very ignoble but important job. You may not pay it much attention, but doormats are stepped on by everyone who enters your house, and it is usually the first and last thing they see as they come and go. Choose a doormat that will make a good lasting impression, but one that will do its job well and will hold up for a long time.

Make a Plan

While hopefully you don’t lose sleep over this decision, keep a few considerations in mind when choosing what doormat to purchase. Before you shop, determine the purpose of your doormat. Is this a primarily functional doormat, intended to remove dirt and debris from feet and shoes before these filthy intruders find their way onto your floor? Or is it purely decorative, bringing color to a room or hiding an unsightly stain on the carpet underneath? Will it be indoors or outdoors? Once you have answered these important questions, you will have a better idea of what doormat you desire.

Choose a Style

After answering the questions previously mentioned, you will be on your way to determining the style of your doormat. An outdoor doormat needs to be particularly durable, built to withstand the elements. Since these doormats are usually more functional decorative, choose one with a thick rubber bottom to resist moving around in the wind and foot traffic. They should also have an abrasive surface with some kind of “scraper” top to remove mud, dirt, or sand from soles of shoes. Thankfully you don’t have to abandon all style. There are plenty of functional doormats that don’t sacrifice fashion.

An indoor mat can also be functional, but usually steps up in style, as well. Coordinate the color of your mat with the colors of your home. Whether your rug is braided, woven, fringed, or frayed, choose a rug that reflects your personal taste. Don’t forget, however, that form follows function, and this is something that will be stepped on innumerable times. Inevitably, it will get filthy and require cleaning. Don’t choose a rug that will not withstand a tough cleaning regularly.

Purchase a Doormat

Now that you have a plan and style in mind, go find the doormat that best suits you. The store you go to will be influenced by the type of rug you want. Hardware or garden stores will have a better selection of outdoor doormats, while a linens store may provide a wider range of indoor or decorative rugs. Find one that fits your needs and fits your budget, then take it home and throw it on the floor and step on it! Enjoy!

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How to Obtain a Building Permit

When beginning a construction project, you must obtain a building permit before any concrete is poured or any nail is driven. Building without one can result in heavy fines and will actually cause you to lose time on your project. Take the time to do it right and it will pay off in the long run.

Plan Ahead

Getting approval for construction and obtaining a building permit can take time, particularly if there are complications along the way. Be sure you start the application process early and leave yourself plenty of time before the planned start date of the construction project. This way you can be sure you have the necessary permit and will not cause any delay in the project.

Obtain Architecture Plan

If you are building new construction, obtain several copies of the architect’s plan for submission to the municipal building department. Be sure you have the architect’s seal of approval on the plans. For additions or major modifications, you must go through similar steps and get an architect’s approved copy of the plan.

Complete the Application

Contact the permit group of your local municipal building department to get a copy of an application for a building permit. Fill out the main section of the application, supplying all requested information. Ask your plumber, electrician, and any other contractors to fill out relevant parts of the application as well. Check with the permit office for any additional paperwork, such as septic design plans, that may be required. Turn in the completed application with the required number of architectural plans and a survey of the land to be developed. Be sure to include the necessary payment for the application fee.

Wait for Approval

The approval process can take anywhere from three to six weeks, or longer if there are complications. As you wait for approval on your building permit, make sure you have your construction loan in order and any special supplies have been ordered for your project. After receiving your building loan, typically a building inspector will periodically come out to the site to ensure you are in compliance with approved plans and codes.

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How to Build a Fountain

Nothing is more satisfying than sitting out on your patio on a beautiful day listening to the water trickling in the fountain you built yourself. Fountains are not only beautiful to look at, but they are very appealing to listen to as well. While the idea of building your own may be daunting at first, you need not be intimidated. By following a few easy steps, you will be well on your way to building a beautiful fountain to adorn your backyard.

Choose a Location

Find a place in your yard where a fountain would be visible but not intrusive. To keep your fountain clean and free of debris, choose a place out of the reach of low hanging branching or trees that drop a lot of leaves. Look for as level a spot as you can find.

Choose a Style

The style of fountain you choose will affect how easy or difficult it is to build. The easiest fountain to construct is a simple one—a fountain with a single decorative urn or pot. The more complicated your design, the harder it will be to construct. Find a waterproof container that matches your style and is a suitable size for your fountain. If latex has not been mixed into the concrete of your pot, invest in a sealer to coat your container or freezing will gradually chip the pot. Apply the sealer according to manufacturer directions.

Gather Your Materials

Before you build, gather your materials. You’ll need the main component of your fountain—a large pot or urn. In addition, find some silicone sealant, an electrical cord, a shovel, a drill, and a pump. There are several options to choose from for the pump. Choose the one that matches the type of fountain you want, whether the water is gurgling and bubbling at the surface or shooting up into the air. Be sure you have everything together before you begin.

Put It Together

Drill a hole in the bottom of your pot for the electrical cord to run through. Place the pump in the pot, and be sure to test it before permanently installing it. Run the electrical cord through the hole in the bottom of the pot and use the silicone sealant to seal the hole. Dig a trench from the fountain to the electrical outlet, but be very careful when working with the wiring, and keep the electrical cord in mind when working or digging in the yard. Once you have your fountain assembled, you can enjoy it for years to come.

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