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Beautiful Lighting Tips 101 - A Crash Course in Lighting Des

Posted in Uncategorized by admin on the February 28th, 2009

Many people cannot immediately identify why they may like or dislike a particular room or interior. Proper lighting and illumination is the single most critical factor in designing a pleasing interior environment. A successful lighting design is pleasing to the eye, focuses attention on key room features and eliminates shadows and “hot spots”. There are several lighting applications that can be used to meet specific lighting needs or to achieve a desired special effect.

GENERAL or AMBIENT LIGHTING refers to an even overall level of light provided to make a room or space comfortable and safe for its intended use. Recessed lighting is very popular as a general lighting source. Recessed lighting may be in the form of 3″ to 8″ diameter “can” type fixtures consisting of a “trim” and a “housing.” Recessed “trims” are the visible portion of the recessed light fixture and are available in hundreds of styles and colors to control the spread of light, reflect the light and/or match a particular decor or theme. The “housing” is the actual enclosure that is installed into the attic and connected to the power system. Different housings are available for new construction and remodel construction where attic access is difficult. Where recessed lighting may be in contact with building insulation, an “IC” rated housing is required to prevent a potential fire hazard. In may office environments, general lighting is provided in the form of luminous fluorescent ceiling panels.

TASK LIGHTING typically refers to the higher level of light provided on work areas such as kitchen islands, countertops and desks. Additional light is directed to these areas using recessed, track or pendant fixtures. Concealed under-cabinet lighting is also frequently used by lighting designers to provide task illumination without seeing the source (fixture). Fixtures with either low or line-voltage halogen or xenon bulbs provide a whiter, warmer light than fluorescent under-cabinet lighting. 5 watt xenon or halogen lamps spaced 6 inches apart are suitable for most task lighting purposes where the fixture is within 24″ of the work surface. Whether recessed, track or under-cabinet style, low voltage halogen or xenon lighting fixtures are smaller than line voltage lighting but require a transformer to change the voltage from 120 volt to 12 volt. The transformer is included inside many low voltage fixtures but is also sometimes separate depending on the particular fixture and style.

ACCENT LIGHTING. To be effective, accent lighting should be approximately four times the level of ambient (background) light in an area. Focusing light on an “accented object” or “area” draws attention to a picture, vase or other focal point. Here again. Halogen lighting type fixtures provide a whiter, brighter appearance than standard incandescent or fluorescent type fixtures. The selected fixture should be directional, either a swivel or gimbal type fixture to aim the light exactly where it is needed. Adjustable surface mount fixtures, track fixtures and even recessed style fixtures are available with “aimability” in mind. For a dramatic museum-type effect, some fixtures can include a focusing lens for pinpoint accuracy. The “Lighting Illumination” PDF attached to this file is a good guide for estimating the illumination or brightness of various bulb types and wattages.

WALL WASHING is a type of Accent Lighting that creates an area of uniform illumination that may desirable for a series of photos or artwork. Wall Washing reduces the texture of the wall surface. Often the reflected light can create ambient light in the remainder of the room that is pleasing and restful. WALL GRAZING is opposite from Wall Washing in that it creates a dramatic highlight and shadow effect on surfaces such as draperies, stone or brick. Ceiling light fixtures for Wall Grazing are placed closer to the wall than Wall Washing in order to highlight the three-dimensional effect.

DISPLAY LIGHTING consists of small low voltage lighting fixtures to illuminate cabinets displaying keepsakes, ornaments, dinnerware etc. Many under-cabinet fixtures (as described above) are suitable for display lighting. Small space xenon fixtures used on a “Mini” or “Linear” track have unparalleled design flexibility. Tiny fixtures may be spaced anywhere along the track making it possible to create an even distribution or highlight task areas. Lamp choices from 3W to 20W allow illumination levels from a subtle glow to a brilliantly lit area. A “Light Baffle” often serves as a holder for the track and as a visual shield, concealing the halogen or xenon bulbs. An innovative use of the baffle is as a rigid support, such as spanning the edge.

COVE LIGHTING gives a room a more open appearance by illuminating the perimeter of the room where the walls meet the ceiling. A large crown mold or soffit is built around the perimeter of the room providing a concealed space for a continuous halogen or xenon track lighting. Cove lighting looks best with a smooth, even wash of light. Fixtures should be placed at least 4″ from the wall with 6″ to 9″ being ideal to minimize scalloping. The ceiling height above the lamps should be not more than twice the distance from the wall. The lamp spacing and wattage will depend on distance and brightness level desired. For a medium light level, a good starting point is with 5-watt lamps spaced 6″ on center, with a track spaced 6″ from the wall and 10″ from the ceiling. From this reference point you can design the light level up or down as desired. A room with a dark ceiling, or a brightly lit room may need a higher light level.

Lighting that is thoughtfully considered can make a world of difference and will be an improvement that lasts for many years. Many home improvement stores include sample displays of the various lighting systems and fixtures mentioned above. As with most appliances and electronics, there is a wide variety in the quality of lighting fixtures available. Be sure your purchase is from reputable well known company with fixtures that are either UL or ETC listed. There are numerous online retailers that offer name brand fixtures delivered to your door at very competitive prices.

About the Author

Brian Starr owns a company that is in charge of WAC Lighting products, including transformers and dimmers.

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Purchase Cheap West End Musical Tickets on the Web

Posted in Regional Stuff by admin on the February 28th, 2009

Short weekend breaks always seem like such a superb idea - to leave behind habits & habitats, experiencing something new; perhaps listen to something different. Although, without a purpose, weekends away can on occasion fall somewhat short, a case of tramping around a huge city, regularly darting into shops & examining statues. This may possibly be fine if you are comfortable to go with the flow, whereas if you enjoy being occupied & ‘doing’ something then theatre breaks can be a fabulous option.

Although you could continually go to Australia, why would you need to? As there is lots of talent and enjoyment much more nearer to you in London. Famously, London boasts a large collection of fabulous theatres, most of which are bunched together in London’s West End - a place in which everyday life appears to become a little more rosy & all things turns out right eventually; or at least if not, you can get misplaced in moving moments & feel a little bit of a better human being. Buy cheap theatre tickets from the Leister Square Box Office.

Although for luxurious, merry amusement throughout a London theatre break the majority of people see musical plays. These can be anything from the heart-wrenching misfortune for instance Les Misérables to the rollerblading pleasure that is undeniably Starlight Express. But supporters of rock & roll, doo-wap and men and girls in tight leather will only be interested in one selection - Grease. Taking the UK by storm in the nineteen seventies, this musical has never ever ceased to make an impact on audiences, transferring with consummate ease to the big screen. Featuring a dishy John Travolta & a truly thin Olivia Newton-John, the motion picture went on to be listed for an Oscar.

A great number of people will have time in their heart saved for Grease, no matter what age you are, or indeed what gender. Its one of those great motion pictures that is enjoyed by numerous age groups; equally the London musical is appealing for both young and old. The ease & liveliness of Rydell High is infectious, the late nineteen fifties costumes are desirably retro, & the music songs are so infectious that you’ll be singing in your seats.

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How to Find University Bursaries for Southpaws

Posted in Education Online, Misc Infos, Tutors Lair by admin on the February 27th, 2009

It is far from easy to get a scholarship these days. College scholarships differ from the regular student loan in that they are a grant for education, and therefore, repayment is not necessary. When looking for methods to finance your higher education, suss out afew of of the more special alternatives, such as funding specifically for left-handed students.

Please check out our extensive web site for scholarships and grants for twins facts.

Left-Handed Scholarships: - A southpaw bursary may seem a little bit different, however look at these facts: Bill Gates is left handed, as is President Obama. Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Jimi Hendrix not to mention J.F. Kennedy Jr were left-handed as well. An estimated 11% of the population are left-handed. Frequently believed to be more talented artistically and more intelligent, left-handers have often suffered from discrimination in the past. Discrimination is not an issue any longer and left handers are no longer believed to be odd, and may even have some things in common with the famous people identified above. Should you be left-handed and researching grants specifically for lefthanded students, many grants for left handed students are accessible which you may be able to receive. The Beckley Scholarship for 1000 USD is available at Juniata College stuated in Huntington, PA. Granted to scholars going to Juniata College and it was set up in the late 1970’s, this particular school fund has aided over forty scholars through school. Whilst searching for scholarships, be mindful that many of them have requirements and limitations. In some cases particular grades may be needed or particular financial guidelines must be satisfied. Apply for the maximum amount of scholarships achievable to give you a greater probabilty of financing a college education with as little college debt upon graduation as is feasible. Clubs, hobby related groups and also community organizations can be a source of scholarships. Scholarships for left handed students aren’t a isolated case; financial help is accessible in many different instances such as to the children of veterans or if you have a disability. Researching college scholarships can take some time, but the rewards may potentially be sizable. When utilized with student loans, they can significantly cut back the student debt established by a college degree. Be really thorough and research each opportunity. These funding is not the only choice — be creative! Try for everything you may possibly qualify for, keeping your academic debt to a an absolute minimum, and you’ll be looking at a better career outlook when you eventually finish school.

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Betting Hall Card-Playing: Gaming

Posted in Betting House, Gamblers Lair, University of Leisure by admin on the February 27th, 2009

On the assumption you haven’t familiarized yourself with gaming hall games of chance, read on —

In the name of clarity, a casino is a structure that features wagering. Here, clients will have fun by challenging coin-operated machines or trying out different wagers. Casino games routinely have mathematically determined percentages constituting them which ensure the gambling organization maintains the upper hand versus the customers.

Frequently gambling saloon games can goad you into being obsessed very swiftly. Let’s reflect on the good old slot machine, a cash operated gadget with three cylinders that gyrate once an arm on the side is operated. The machine customarily pays up corresponding with a given series of logos observable on the front panel of the gadget. Unfortunately, gambling saloon pastimes allow the glamor of control, thus tricking the bettor — the victim can make alternatives, but they cannot hope to really match up the player’s overall handicap. That is induced by the gambling saloongambling house never repaying the entire wager as expected. This systematic policy is recurrently found in well known casino games such as Texas hold’em poker, dice games, roulette or blackjack.

Blind Poker is undoubtedly an incredibly fashionable casino pastime. The gambling aficionados, holding fully covered cards, place their stakes in a principal pot which is finally bestowed onto the winning gamer carrying the winning set of cards. (And yes, the coolest bluff can win too…)

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Comparable to five-card stud poker, blackjack is likewise a very fashionable casino pastime. A considerable amount of its repute is grounded in its peculiar mix of luck and craft and choice making, and a praxis called “card counting”. The aforementioned is an approach in which players may dramatically force the probabilities of the card game to lend them an advantage both by betting & tactical opetations in agreement with the cards deployed.

Craps is a very popular game where punters bet money on the roll of a couple of dice. Gamesters must bet on the result of 1 spin, or on a series of rolls on 2 dice. In contrast to blackjack, there’s absolutely no possible long term winning tactics players can cash in on to bend the odds.

Roulette is a crowd pulling game of luck in the course of which a croupier rotates a roulette wheel accomodating thirty seven (classical roulette) or exactly thirty-eight (American or Vegas roulette) uniquely tagged pockets in which the rolling pellet will finally come to settle, which establishes the final winning number Assuming that a punter has put money on a particular number which actually is successful, in other words they’ve got a lucky hand, the set benefit is going to be 35 to 1, the original pledge proper is returned. Hence in totality the original wager is multiplied by a factor of thirty six.

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Aluminium Conservatories

Posted in Uncategorized by admin on the February 27th, 2009

The conservatory is a popular addition to homes around the world and in particular in colder climates. Conservatories began their existence in the 1700s as Dutch farmers looked to find ways of protecting their plants during the colder winter months. These early greenhouse structures evolved not only into the common garden greenhouse but also the conservatories we see today. The original concept in all probability did not have in mind the idea of creating a transitional space between the dwelling and the out of doors. Of course the initial idea behind those who created the first versions of conservatories was to provide a means to prolong the life of plants during the chill of the northern European winter months.

Today the equivalent commercial greenhouses are typically made of aluminium, whilst the manufacture of aluminium has been slow to progress. However, in recent years as technology has progressed, aluminium conservatories have become a serious rival to the PVCu conservatories so popular since the 1970s. The New Generation Aluminium conservatory has a strong slim frame which lends itself perfectly to the sleek lines and rectangular design of Edwardian conservatories.

The modern aluminium can compete against the major strengths of its PVCu rival and indeed the finishes are so advanced these days the timber conservatories are also threatened. A major consideration is security and this is one area that aluminium comes out on top over PVCu. Aluminium frames do not need the large expansion gaps that PVCu frames have and which can be a weak point vulnerable to a would be intruder.

In the main, aluminium conservatories are versatile, strong and durable as an extension to the home. The increasing popularity has meant that in recent years it is much easier to find a capable supplier and builder that can readily construct a versatile and durable aluminium conservatory. By working with the most reliable people in the task of designing and building an aluminium conservatory, it is possible to create a spectacular addition to the home that will solidly stand the test of time. Although it could be argued that a conservatories looks it best when made of timber, there can be no doubt that the aluminium version is preferable to the PVCu conservatories that became so popular towards the end of the twentieth century.

About the Author

Garry John has contributed to several home improvement sites including conservatories and blinds.

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Add some splash to your garden with a fountain

Posted in Uncategorized by admin on the February 26th, 2009

One great way to add character to a garden is to add a fountain. Fountains, also called water features and water elements, can add elegance, a sense of peace or a feeling of fun to nearly any landscape design. The sound of flowing or trickling water is comforting and relaxing for most people, so it helps make the environment inviting. In addition, practitioners of feng shui often suggest fountains for enhancing energy flow.

When selecting a fountain, it is important to consider the personality of the space you want to decorate, as well as the effect you would like to create. Fountains are available in a myriad of sizes, materials and designs so the possibilities are limitless. Some fountains are built into the landscape, while others are self-contained and can be placed nearly anywhere.

The centerpiece fountain
A centerpiece fountain is usually most appropriate for a large outdoor space. Consider using a centerpiece fountain as a focal point for your garden design. Often centerpiece fountains are sculptures consider them as works of art and choose a fountain that you will enjoy and that makes you feel good to view. Usually centerpiece fountains are made of stone, cement or resin.

A large fountain can be used in a smaller place such as a patio garden, but only if the primary use of the space is not impeded by the fountain’s placement. For example, if children play in the space or groups of adults gather for drinks and barbecue, a fountain in the center is probably a bad idea. However if the patio is used for reading, tiny gatherings, or just observing the sunset, a fountain may be the perfect accent.

Waterfalls
While small waterfalls can be self-contained units, most waterfalls are integrated into the landscape. Waterfalls are ideal for a landscape that has a hill or slope. In some waterfalls, the water flows in a stream downhill. In others it falls from one plateau to another lower one. As the water lands, it has a lovely spray and satisfying sound. Often waterfalls have a pool at the base the pool may be used for fish such as koi, or decorative water plants. Usually, waterfalls use a plastic liner for the base along with natural elements for the sides of the waterfall.

Tabletop fountains
Small fountains suitable for a tabletop or pedestal stand are also popular for gardens. Tabletop fountains are ideal for a small space to which you want to add a decorative accent and lovely sound without spending a lot of money. They are easy to maintain and move, so if you are unsure of the ideal location for your fountain, this may be your best bet. If you are looking to get the most fashionable type of fountain, then mist fountains may be just what you are looking for. They give off a light mist, that not only is a great humidifier, but looks more beautiful than just a trickle of water does. Tabletop fountains are also great for indoor atriums and make great gifts for those who love gardens. The smallest tabletop fountains have footprints of only a few inches, others are up to a couple feet across. Tabletop fountains can be made of stone, metal, resin or plastic.

Wall fountains
If you are tight on space, wall fountains may be ideal for your purposes. Wall-mounted units are usually fairly small and can be hung from a fence or wall. These water features come in varying styles to look like artwork, natural elements or other structures.

About the Author

Johann Erickson is the owner of Online Discount Mart and TV Products 4 Less. Please include an active link to our site if you’d like to reprint this article.

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The Computer of the Future Will be Your Mobile Phone

Posted in Better Hardware by admin on the February 25th, 2009

These days, many devices are “converging”. There is nothing new about it. Everyone will tell you that in a few years time, you will be able to buy a mobile phone that is also an FM radio, digital camera, PDA, MP3 player, universal remote control, USB drive, clock, have untold wireless connectivity protocols, and computer (with web browser, email & other general computer abilities).

Many experts would hesitate to include the “computer” in the above list. They mention many technical difficulties, such as: screen resolution, keyboard, pointing device (mouse), processor speed, heat dissipation & battery life.

I argue that Similar arguments can be made about laptop/notebook PCs. Take a look at many offices today, & you will see many laptops being used as a normal desktop computer. People will connect external mice, keyboards & monitors & then you hardly notice you are using a laptop.

Now, you are also seeing many wireless keyboards & mice… All that is missing are wireless monitors. The reason that there are no wireless monitors is most likely because there are no wireless protocols that can handle the sheer volume of information that is sent to monitors.

Once wireless monitors become feasible, the paradigm shift to using your mobile phone as you PC is very easy to make.

In fact, your mobile phone will truly embody the meaning of the word “PERSONAL computer”: you take it with you wherever you go. While using the built-in screen will give you limited PC functionality, as soon as you walk into your office or home, place the phone near the wireless screen/keyboard/mouse, and press the “synchronise” button on these devices, and they will automatically become extensions of your phone.

You can surf the internet, read emails, & play games using your phone as the computer, except a hi-resolution screen & a full keyboard & mouse will make it much easier to do what you want.

As far as I can see, the major piece in the puzzle that is missing, is the ability to connect a mobile to a monitor (regardless of whether the monitor is “wireless”)

All the building blocks for this scenario are almost in place, so the next few years should be quite interesting.

Computer Aid : We can help you.

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Behold Today’s Information On Brit Awards And Also Identify How You Can Look Super With London’s Fashion Week

Posted in News Resources by admin on the February 25th, 2009

This month is host to many different types of events; the most celebrated of the 2 are at absolutely different ends of the spectrum, The Capitals 2009 Fashion Week and The Brit Awards 2009

Both of these events are immensely famous and have turned into somewhat of institution & regular annual occasion.

The cities Fashion Week takes place in New York, Milan and Paris, the most chic and cherished urban capital cities in the world. The original Fashion Week was in NYC, in 1943 and was merely proposed to attract attention away from Paris fashion rage during World War 2 when fashion trends insiders were not able to voyage to France to observe the Paris Fashion shows. The long expected outstanding Fashion Week normally takes place in Feb, it is just in simple terms an opportunity for creative designers both well known names like Heidi Klein and also up & coming less experienced designers to strut their own brand new collections on the runway. This presently gives fashion & store buyers a chance to take notice of what’s positively to be in demand this coming season. Fashion Week begins with NYC, Fashion Week followed quickly by the capitals Fashion Week, Milan Fashion Week and then at last French Fashion Week. Not long till the 2009 Brits see interviews and vidoes here t5m.

The British Phonographic Industry is also known as The Brits are the annual pop music awards ceremony. The awards happened in 1977 & took place in the Royal Albert Hall. The awards was first transmitted on BBC One it is now shown on ITV 3. The Brit Awards are viewed by & hundreds of folk annually and are put out live every year. 2009’s Brit Awards are also as always promised to be brilliant & with acts such as Kings of Leon, Duffy and Girls Aloud performing your bound to be in for a fantastic night, it wont stop there though. This years 2009 Brit Awards Presenters are the amusing BBC’s Gavin & Stacey’s, James Corden and Mathew Horne and the amazing Kylie Minogue so you are gauranteed to be in for a laugh too.

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My Phone Has Walkie Talkie - So Does Mine.

Posted in Better Hardware by admin on the February 25th, 2009

Nextel used to be “How Business Got Done”. It also used to be the only carrier to offer an exclusive PTT (Push to Talk) feature, which was a phone with a built-in walkie talkie that worked on its cellular network. With Cingular Wireless becoming one of the last carriers to get into the Push to Talk arena, the last major differentiating factor to the consumer that once separated wireless carriers is disappearing. Wireless carriers on the front end are becoming more homogeneous and it is increasingly difficult to tell which carrier offers what unique service. It used to be that Nextel was known for “walkie talkie”, Sprint was the first to introduce the coolest data enabled phones, Cingular had all the “free phones” and a technically challenged cellular network and T-Mobile being the only GSM (Global System for Mobility) carrier offered an international phone. The former AT&T Wireless was the first wireless carrier to come out with the Digital One Rate, a national calling plan with roaming included. It is now trying to “Raise the Bar’ with its recent acquisition by Cingular Wireless. Nextel is ‘How Business Gets Done’ was bought by Sprint ‘Free and Clear’. Verizon wants to know if you can hear them now, as after a very long run in first place, they are now the #2 wireless carrier in the market place behind Cingular Wireless. But given that the service is only as good as the network by the 3rd quarter of 2006 you may see them Verizon reclaim their spot as the #1 Wireless Provider in the U.S. And currently rounding out the bottom of the list it seems that T-Mobile is constantly giving more in order to ‘Get More’ market share.

With the recent mergers and buyouts, we all know that bigger does not always mean better. A case in point is demonstrated in what it is like dealing with the ‘New’ Cingular Wireless after their merger with AT&T Wireless. While carriers are beginning to appear homogenous on the front end, their back end protocols and practices are still as complex as ever before. A once confused customer care, is now even more confused, having to manage different technologies, carrier specific programs, rate plan names, management styles and other idiosyncrasies of each wireless carrier. Each Carrier had slightly different ways of doing the same procedures, multiply this by hundreds of departments and this becomes a mess for both customers and dealers alike to navigate through. Take for example the process of verifying an account via calling into customer care. Cingular now does this is in the most bureaucratic and arcane way.

All of this reflects their completely consumer driven back end customer relationship management systems. They purchased AT&T Wireless for all their corporate accounts but have yet to adopt procedures for dealing with corporate customers. If you cannot exactly identify the account name as it reads on the account, then you cannot do anything on the account even if you wanted to pay a past due bill. Essentially your phones would have to be turned off for non-payment before they would be open to accepting payment without proper account name verification. Naturally this would allow them to collect their past due amount, plus the late fees, plus the reactivation fee per phone. They say that they verify accounts this way for security reasons and for protection of the account holder and given the amount of fraud that exists in the wireless industry, it is both understandable and good practice. However, the problem is not with the message but with the messenger. They do not offer another solution to verify the account which in most cases can be easily implemented, as the customer care reps already have email access in place, they could easily send over a confirmation email or if need be change of responsibility form to a master email address at the corporation, the former point of contact. Or if the company did not use email, they could mail or fax a form to the business address on file. For business customers a simple required task before the customer care rep can do anything further on the account can be quite a nightmare especially in the major corporate and government sectors where account administrators turn over frequently and many accounts exist in organizations all with slightly different names, an acronym, a sub-account and in the worse case scenario, the carrier itself may have abbreviated the name if it exceeded the amount of characters allowed in the field when they originally set up the account.

Former AT&T Wireless customers are dealing with the brunt of this, as their account verification system was different & better, offering alternative ways to validate the account such as with an account number, the correct billing address and the last 4 digits of a social security or tax id number. The combination of the carrier specific protocols, lack of training on every level, their use of the same confusing billing format (usually written by programmers and not by telecomm specialists and actual end users) and consumers becoming more sophisticated buyers is making the wireless market more complex as opposed to more less so.

Until carriers in general realize that increasing market share and gaining customer loyalty also should mean a new easy to read bill, a proactive (not reactive) customer care team and knowledgeable and hands-on sales representative, the customer experience in dealing with their cellular company is going to continue to deteriorate. Thanks for holding, how may I help you?

Shonika is the Owner of Group Interactive, Inc, a wireless resource management company. Group Interactive helps companies, prime contractors and government agencies to centralize, better manage and properly deploy their wireless resources (cell phones, Blackberry’s and cell phone bills). sproctor@groupinteractive.net, http://www.groupinteractive.net

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Importance of the Sauna Bench

Posted in Uncategorized by admin on the February 23rd, 2009

When deciding on what kind of sauna bench to use, you essentially have two main choices - either standard benches that a manufacturer always has in stock or a specialty or customized set of benches to suit your particular needs and tastes. Either way, there are plenty of options to choose from once you’ve nailed down a particular type.

If you go the standard route, you still have a few options. First, you can decide on either a single- or double-bench layout. Single layouts mean one bench surrounding the inside perimeter of the compartment. A double layout means one elevated bench around the inner perimeter and one set right below it. It almost looks like two stairs and allows you to have twice the bathers in the same room.

A standard sauna bench will usually be made from thin slats of wood in order to decrease the amount of moisture that collects on top, while preventing warping and discoloration. Another advantage of thin pieces of wood on sauna benches is that you get more moisture circulating through the cabin. Of course, if you have one of the popular infrared saunas, this will not matter because there is no humidity involved.

But no matter if you are using a traditional or infrared cabin, you should look for a sauna bench that uses vertical grains for maximum strength. They should also be fastened from the bottom, to avoid leaving metal exposed. Exposed metal from screws or nails can heat up in the sauna and potentially burn people. Making sure the benches are fastened from the bottom also makes them look more uniform and attractive to the eye.

If you choose to customize a sauna bench, the sky is nearly the limit on what you can do. You do not need to have the traditional flat variety - today’s sauna benches come in all kinds of shapes, sizes and even contours. You can go with a set that looks similar to park benches, or even contoured ones that look almost like the adjustable beds you see on television. Throne-shaped saunas as a novelty are built into some cabins, while others are made to look like beds so that the bathers can recline and maximize the relaxation benefits.

Infrared cabins are the all the rage, and the sauna bench possibilities are endless. Because infrareds use no steam, a larger selection of woods, colors and finishes can be used to enhance the appearance and even the comfort level inside the cabin. You can get a great looking unit with unique sauna benches at a great price using an infrared cabin.

Once you choose a wood and decide on a custom or standard sauna bench all that is left is to decide on size, location and a heater. When thinking of buying or building a sauna, the benches almost seem like an afterthought, but they should be foremost in your mind. The more thought you put into your sauna benches the more pleased you will be with the eventual result.

David Bloom is a health enthusiast and contributor to many fitness sites. He is the author of Sauna Benches, a blog dedicated to residential saunas and sauna equipment and accessories.

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