Create a bold and stylish look in your Melbourne home with chic lampshades

This year’s hottest interior trend in Melbourne is statement lampshades and lighting pieces. While down lights and concealed lighting has been all the rage for the past five years, a move towards bolder lighting features has been indicative of this season’s new look. Lampshades and lighting features are being used to enhance the look of a room and are the centerpiece of many on-trend designs. You will find bold and bright lighting in living areas, bedrooms and even kitchens. It’s a time when you can be as brave and creative as you want.

Simply changing an old light shade can completely transform a room. It’s important to find a lampshade that creates a balanced look. A good tip is to look for a lampshade that mirrors the width of the lamp base at its widest point. Once you’ve selected the right lampshade, you can begin to rejuvenate other areas of your home. If you are looking for some ideas to bring your home into this year’s style keep reading.

Wall art that makes a statement

In 2014 it’s all about stepping a little left of centre and creating a look that is a little outrageous. Whether it’s a geometrical pattern or a bold floral design, the sky is the limit with the art work. It’s all about choosing something you love and making it a feature of a room. The great thing about art is it is very versatile and can be moved room to room whenever you like.

Go chic with plush carpeting

Another flexible interior addition is plush carpeting. Again, you can use plush carpeting to make a bold statement and be a bit wild. The popular patterns that will be making an appearance in chic homes across Melbourne are tribal patterns, geometric shapes and neon colours. In 2014, pony skin is making it’s mark as a popular upholstery. Either incorporate it into a rug, or even use the material to cover chairs, couches, tables and even cushions. It’s important to take note that you don’t have to choose real pony skin. Try faux-friendly versions for a more ethical material that will make you feel better.

Feel exotic with tribal print

Add some excitement to a plain interior by adding a burst of tribal prints. While you are in good old Melbourne, you can create the feeling of being transported to a faraway exotic land, by simply adding some tribal patterned material. It’s fun and easy to play around with different designs. Whether you want to craft pillows or through the tribal material, the choice is yours.

Play around with DIY

For an easy way to update your bathroom to this year’s colour palette why not try some DIY? It’s cheap and easy to rejuvenate your bathroom with a burst of this year’s hot colours. Why not try painting your bath rub a bold new tone? This will create a fun and exciting new look that screams style. Some designers suggest a pastel yellow or a blue hue, this is totally on trend in 2014.

Being blue will make you happy

The colour of 2014 has to be blue. It doesn’t matter with it’s dark, navy, turquoise, sky blue or peacock, interior designers are going crazy for a blue hue. There’s no need to feel blue, but instead cover your home with it. Whether you want to create a luxurious and regal look to your living room with a navy feature wall, or perhaps try soft furnishings in different blue tones, it’s up to you.

Now that you know how to transform you home to look fabulous, it’s time you started picking out the perfect lampshade. Jump online to see LampshadeHouse’s impressive range of landshades in Melbourne by heading to http://lampshadehouse.com.au/. 

Is it time for an upgrade for your boat?

Owners may choose to upgrade for a number of reasons, including improving safety, minimizing problems and improving resale value. Whatever the reason, there is no doubt that you will be looking for upgrade ideas that are affordable while still looking stylish and in keeping with the look of the rest of your boat. One tip is to look for stylish boat seats materials in Australia that will weather the elements and feel comfortable to use.

The initial wow factor of a brand new boat doesn’t last for long, as age and the sea air takes its toll. The good news is that keeping your boat looking beautiful and well cared for only requires a little bit of effort. You don’t need to replace everything to dramatically improve the look and value of your boat. Just replace what is broken or damaged and what is showing signs of age. There are some certain areas that you can affordable touch up which will have a big influence on the outcome. Seats are one of the few items of a boat that you can very easily remove and install without needing too much expertise. Unfortunately, some seats are vulnerable to rot over time and so can look, smell and feel uncomfortable. A seat upgrade is well worth the investment and will give your prized vessel an instant makeover.

Is your trim looking worn and scratched? Many recreational boats have timber accents that look great when first installed, but can lose their luster and end up looking shabby and tired. Luckily, wood is very easy to spruce up, and it is a job that you can do yourself. A quick sanding should be all you need to smooth out any of those surface marks, and then give it a once over with a good wax or polish finish. If rot is the problem, then it is advisable to rip it out and start again, taking extra care to add an impenetrable finish.

Replacing rusted steel fittings will make your boat safer as well as nicer to look at. This is a symptom of quite serious damage, and it warrants more than just an anti-rust solution. Choose stainless steel replacements that will offer more protection from the elements. Rusted fittings are dangerous, as they are weak and more likely to snap or fail. At sea, this could be disastrous. If you want to upgrade for more energy efficient or cost saving purposes, consider the benefits of LED lighting. These products offer huge advantages, and are an immediate tick in the eyes of a forward thinking buyer.

Finally, perhaps the most obvious point is to give your boat a good lick of paint. This will cover a multitude of sins. A shiny lacquer will instantly make any buyer more interested. Plus a good paint job first requires that you remove all of those barnacles and mold that has built up over the years which is never a bad thing. Gel coat is the preferred option, which is a resin with a very high pigmentation for that pop of color. It is worth opting for the more expensive, high end brands here, as anything less is still quite vulnerable to fading in the sunlight. The difference between good and bad resin is quite pronounced, with top quality materials lasting for years, while poorer substitutes will turn dull after only a couple of months. If you are going for a dramatic color change, remember that dark colors can pose significant problems with distortion due to the amount of heat that they absorb. For more helpful tips, or to order your new boat seats models in Australia, please contact Marine Tech Industries at http://www.marinetechindustries.com.au/.

How you can inject colour and style with lighting

Use creative lamp shades designs in Melbourne to brighten your interior. The most obvious way in which lamp shades can bring your rooms to life is their versatility of colour. A naked bulb only offers the most pure form of light, and this can be added to with thoughtful use of lamp shades which create a filter for the light to pass through. This has the potential to change the entire feel of a room. Choose a warm orange or pink for a living room, while a cool green or blue could add that relaxing element to a bedroom. For a more complex design, consider combining several complementary lamp shades in the centre of a single room. 

View your lighting as a chance to pick up on the themes of the room that are articulated through furnishings and décor. This includes both the colour palette and the style. For example, a minimalist modern aesthetic might benefit from some bold, oversized lamp shades that make the light the hero of the room. Alternatively, more simple designs that are less attention grabbing would perfectly suit an already heavily decorated space. Choose a rich red to accent cushions or a throw rug of the same hue. The choice of lamp shade is entirely your own, from loud to understated. 

There is no doubt that light has the potential to create a very distinct atmosphere. The intensity of the light has a lot to do with this result, as well as simply the colour and the design. Lamp shades have the added benefit of cutting out a lot of the harshness of pure light. This is especially important if there is plenty of natural light flooding into a room, because you don’t want to be blinded by artificial light when it is not needed. The degree of diffusion of light is dependent on the fabric of the lampshade, and so you can be in control of the final result. 

Lamp shapes can be attached to almost any existing light, making it simple to give your home a style update without having to spend a fortune to replace fittings. Furthermore, it is relatively simple and inexpensive to switch them over if you change your tastes in the future. This means that it is easier to stay on trend, without having to worry about what will go out of fashion and what will remain timeless. While there are some lights out there that look stunning on their own, it is also true that there are bare lights that look less than spectacular. Ugly fittings and wires are not the best look, and lamp shades in some instances are able to cover these small flaws to create a stunning light source. 

The pattern of fabrics available is virtually endless. The options range from subtle and neutral to geometric style statements. A high contrast pattern, such as a black and white zigzag, could even cast an interesting shadow to the room, while softer tones will look pretty without heavily impacting the light. The first thing when choosing a custom lamp shade design is to find the ideal shape that will bring out the best in your room. Square styles can look at home in a structured kitchen and mimic the sharp  lines of cupboards and benches, while round or oval designs are more casual, and look great in bedrooms and lounges. There is no limit to how you can play with your home lighting, other than your own imagination. Discover a leading lamp shades supplier in Melbourne at Lamp Shade House by visiting http://lampshadehouse.com.au/ today.

How to recover from Penguin 3.0

Every business with a website has likely had a frantic meeting with their SEO strategist in the past few days about the recent Penguin update. If you have been penalized, then you will want to ensure the correct SEO strategy in Melbourne in preparation for future updates.

First of all, you will want to double check that you have actually been negatively impacted. All the hype surrounding this long awaited update might fool you into thinking that it will have a significant impact on lots of people. Realistically, only 1% of enquirers will be influenced, but the potential for damage within this single percentage is large. Use a Penguin penalty checker tool which tracks your traffic in line with Penguin roll out dates. Of course, dropped rankings could be a coincidence, but more likely than not is that Google doesn’t agree with some of your SEO tactics. This means that it is time to change.

If you’ve noticed a drop, then the first step is to perform a link audit. Every single link should be checked, and confirmed as abiding by the Google Webmaster Guidelines. Unfortunately, you will probably need to wait at least a few months until the next refresh update for your changes to be recognized. That being said do not put it off. The next update could come at any time, and doing as Google says right away is the right choice to get back on track as soon as the update arrives.

If you were stressing about the update uncovering all of your dirty SEO secrets, and have seemed to come out unscathed, then be weary. Google algorithms are constantly evolving, and you are far from out of the woods. It is quite possible that the next refresh will find those paid links that you tried so desperately to hide. Perform a pre-emptive link audit and any that don’t cut it need to go. For any links that are red flags, your first choice should be removing the link. Only then if you don’t receive a response, or if the webmasters in charge of the site refuse to oblige, then you should look to Google’s disavow tool.

Consider other forms of directing traffic to your site which don’t directly require Google. Things like blog and forum commenting or guest blogging are useful tools. Just remember to always stick to informative and interesting content; otherwise this effort will be in vain. This limbo between making changes and waiting for the next update might present a great opportunity to focus on your social media presence. Whatever you do, don’t waste this time and think that there is nothing you can do of value.

As an internet user, Penguin 3.0 is certainly beneficial. Just like the updates before it, this latest version is targeting spam content and aims to weed out what no one wants to read to deliver a better search engine experience. The algorithms will continue to be amended and tweaked with the single goal of giving users accurate and informative search engine information that answers their query. Provide this, and it will be difficult to be penalized.

If you wouldn’t know the first place to start in performing a site audit, then there are some competitive professional services that can do the job for you. If they do a good job, it might be worth considering that team as a long term option to reassess your entire strategy. Get in touch with the gurus at Zib Media at http://zibmedia.com.au/ to discuss how you can be on your way to bright SEO future in Melbourne.

How to detail a car engine

Most exterior car detailing work in Melbourne is done primarily to improve the aesthetic appeal of a vehicle, with any improvement to the functioning or condition coming in secondary. Engine detailing, however, has reversed priorities. This area is usually hidden from view under the hood, and so appearance is not a major concern. Of course, serious car fanatics will no doubt compare engines, but that’s another story. Engine detailing is much more commonly performed as it can help to extend the life of your engine and help your car run smoothly. The individual components of the engine will last much longer, and additionally, when something does go wrong, the source will be much simpler to diagnose.

It is fine to perform the task once or twice per year, with occasional checks and touch ups if needed. Like with many DIY projects, an improper detailing job can actually end up doing more harm than good, so make sure that you know what you’re doing before popping the hood.

The first step is that of preparation. Make sure you’re wearing old clothes, as engine grease is not going to come out in the wash. Gather some basic household cleaning supplies and a low pressure water source. If you are completing a DIY job, then a common garden hose on a low setting should do the job. You will also require a specialist degreasing agent as well as cleaning materials, including several rags or microfiber towels, a few sheets of plastic, and various brushes. An old toothbrush might come in handy.

Next, you want to spray your front bumper and fenders with the hose. This wetting will help the next stage in diluting the degreaser and prevent it from causing irreparable damage to your paint finish. Pop the hood, and tightly cover the alternator and battery with your plastic sheet, as these two parts are very sensitive to moisture and should not get wet if you can help it. Garbage bags will do the job. Wet the engine indirectly with the hose, as well as spraying the underside of the hood. Once the engine is sufficiently wet, it is a matter of applying the degreasing agent and allowing it to work its magic for a few minutes before getting to work with the brushes. Scrub all parts of the engine, steering clear of any electrical connectors. In order to get to every little spot, you will need some different sized and shaped brush tools. Use common sense as to how much pressure you apply to which areas, as paint can be quite easily scratched and may require finer brushes.

All this grease is messy work, so grab the hose and thoroughly rinse down anything covered in grease, including yourself. The trick is to not leave any residue behind, as this will get sticky and cause all kinds of problems. It is best to allow the engine to air dry if the weather permits and your have the time. Mop up any excess moisture with a dry towel so that the bay is completely dry. Spray the entire bay with engine dressing or rubber and vinyl protectant. You will want to find an aerosol that evenly coats all surfaces, leaving a glossy shine. Close the hood and turn the engine on for ten minutes or so. Now your at-home engine detailing job is complete. Of course, this level of job will hardly compare to that of trained professional detailers, so if you want a real wow factor then you could visit your local detailer. Get in touch with Unsurpassed Vehicle Image for a premium car detailing service in Melbourne in a league of its own at http://www.uvi.com.au/.

Water features complement the garden

Many modern homes are turning to the classic water feature to add a focal point to their green garden. These pieces can be the perfect finishing touch to any creative landscaping masterpiece in Adelaide, as they can adapt to almost any theme. From a Tuscan hardscape to a serene Japanese garden, a water feature can look stunning.

There are a number of features to choose from, and your decision will depend on what you hope to achieve with the feature, how much room you have to spare, and the theme of the rest of your space. For example, a Zen garden might best benefit from a calming pond or pool, which may even contain gorgeous fish. This is a source of life without being too noisy or distracting. A small trickling stream complete with footbridge may also fit nicely with this setting. More modern, sleek environments tend to opt for a flowing water wall over several levels. These can look stunning in slate or stone, or even metal for a futuristic look and a great reflective appearance. Naturalistic rock waterfalls look beautiful in a more overgrown or jungle like garden. Beware though, these can create quite a lot of noise and so are best in a large garden, away from the house.

Water features can create a movement that is unlike most other elements of the garden. This helps the space to feel alive and vibrant. Furthermore, just as it is for humans, water is the source of life for many animals. You might find that a water feature in the garden attracts a number of critters who need a drink. The wildlife that a water feature could bring to the garden is invaluable, and injects an atmosphere like no other. The sound of bird calls will blend seamlessly with the trickling sound of water. Of course, the greenery in your garden also needs a steady water supply, and you might find that a water feature draws some of the plant life towards it. If you opt for water without movement, such as a pond, just remember that in summer this will be a breeding ground for insects and mosquitoes.

Because of its reflective nature, running water in the garden can make the most of natural and artificial light. Position it in a place that has the best access to the light, and then the rest of the space can be lit also. You can play with different artificial lighting options placed at the bottom of the feature and facing upward. This has the potential to look truly spectacular. Set the mood to romantic, dramatic or serene with the right lighting choices. Water can also make the garden look much bigger.

A fountain can be a very symbolic installation. The energetic propelling of water is uplifting, and also calming. In many cultures, water can be the embodiment of fortune and prosperity, so installing a fountain is a good luck symbol. Even without this purpose in mind, a water feature is a great way to introduce other textures into your garden, both with the water itself and the structure. A diversity of plants is also possible, as some interesting looking plants grow very well in water. If you have poor soil quality elsewhere or trouble growing more than a couple of sturdy species, this might be the solution.

Overall, water features are very simple to maintain. A quick clean out every now and then will prevent the build-up of unsightly algae. This process is also important to keep the system running smoothly, and preventing any blockages in the pipes. To learn more about how a gorgeous water feature can perfect your personalized landscaping approach in Adelaide, just contact Thompson Landscaping at http://thompsonlandscapingadelaide.com.au/.

How to fix a small chip in your security door

A dent in your security door is likely to have arisen from a failed attempt at a break in. Take a moment to be thankful that you had the forethought to install this mechanism in the first place. If anything, this should reaffirm the need for durable security doors designs in Melbourne to protect your family. The situation could have potentially resulted in much worse than a dented door.

A chip is no immediate problem, but in the long term it will decrease the strength of your door. Therefore it is wise to get it fixed as soon as possible. Another strong jolt in the same area and an intruder could barge right in.Besides, a strong knock to the steel or aluminum frame which has caused this dent is also likely to have removed some paint. An exposed metal surface will quickly corrode in the elements and this can weaken the structure as a whole. Of course, this is not to mention that a chip in your otherwise new looking door will look ugly and detract from the appearance of your home.

Repairing a security door can be tricky for a number of reasons. First of all, there are multiple components and multiple materials used. Is the problem confined to the steel frame or is there damage to the screen? If the problem is a cut or penetration of the metal mesh, then there is really no substitute for a professional replacing it. All a burglar needs is a small hole to gain entry into your house.

Timber doors can be patched up and sanded easily enough, but the often criss-cross design of security doors makes it difficult to perform an unnoticeable repair. If you want to get your door looking like new again, then you will probably need to call in an expert. If, however, you simply want to patch it up and ensure that it remains safe, then you can easily do this job yourself. Finally, the job is quite a considerable one for what may be a very small scratch or scuff.

First of all, you will need an abrasive that will smooth out the surface and remove all the peeling flecks of paint that no doubt surround the area. Next, use a metal cleaner to thoroughly wipe the entire door down, and after this also apply mineral spirits. After this, apply a metal primer. There are a number of options to choose from, and if your scratch has been there for some time then you may wish to use one particularly for rusted metal. Finally, an oil based enamel top coat will keep the surface in peak condition for as long as possible.

Alternatively, if there are issues with other parts of your security door such as the hinges or the lock, then these are also areas that require a timely repair. When two or more elements of your door are not up to scratch, it is worthwhile either calling for a professional service to complete all the jobs at once, or to buy a new door. If the mesh is intact but the grille is dented, then you can get just this single element replaced at a fraction of the cost.

Time is of the essence when it comes to door repair and once again feeling safe in your own home. If you want to get the job done efficiently and without any hassle, then all you have to do is simply contact Dial a Door at http://www.dialadoor.com.au/ to chat about their quick security doors repair in Melbourne.

Why you should choose a professional window cleaner

There is little doubt that a professional window cleaning job in Adelaide would yield better results than a DIY attempt. But did you know that there are more benefits to getting a professional clean every now and then?

Firstly, a professional cleaner will have access to all the right equipment and chemical cleaning products. This might not seem like a big deal, but if you have special types of glass, like stained glass or lead lighting, then using the standard products might not be good enough. Store bought products will likely contain ammonia which is not suitable for all types of windows. They could actually damage the glass and leave it looking lackluster. This mistake will be a costly one, because it is often unrepairable.

Next, they will be motivated to do it because you are paying them, rather than beginning the job yourself and realizing a couple of windows in that it is all too hard. Cleaning windows is some seriously demanding work, and something that will take a whole day easily. Setting aside a few hours for a quick clean is simply not possible. If you are not in the right mindset, then you will get sloppy and might end up leaving giant streaks that look worse than the original dirty window.

Professional window cleaners are also experienced in this area and will be able to draw upon years of experience, which is a lot compared to your quick Google search. This experience and knowledge will not only mean that they can complete the job much quicker and to a higher standard, but also that they will be in a better position to spot any more general issues with your windows. Problems other than dirt might be that they are rotted, the wood is splintering, or that they are termite infested or rusted. A trained eye will spot this immediately and be able to tell you, so that you can quickly get to work fixing the problem before it gets really bad. If your cleaners do by any chance find an infestation that is dangerous, such as a bee hive or wasp nest, then they will be trained to deal with it safely, whereas you might hurt yourself.

Professionals will also know from this experience all of the things to avoid. For example, thy will know that cleaning in direct sunlight is inadvisable, as the water dries too quickly and leaves a streaky finish. If you didn’t know this, you can imagine that the process would be frustrating and also time consuming.

A professional clean will also importantly extend the lifespan of your windows. Not only will problems be caught while they are still small, but the wood or metal frames as well as the glass pane will be conditioned and cleaned to remain in top form for as long as possible. Dirt attracts moisture, and so the more dirt, the more easily your windows will deteriorate.

A window cleaning expert can help you diagnose some of those stubborn window problems that you might be grappling with. For example, low scratching might immediately point to the dog, whereas mysterious black spots that are difficult to remove might be due to your mulch in the garden. Believe it or not, certain mulches can release spores that project through the air and latch on to a nearby surface, which might just so happen to be your window.

For more handy tips like these that will help you, or to organize a visit from a leading window cleaning business in Adelaide, just contact City Clean at http://citywindowcleaning.com.au/.

Say goodbye to a dripping tap without the need of a plumber in Adelaide

There is nothing more frustrating than having to call out a Plumber in Adelaide to fix a leaking tap. While the annoying noise of a dripping tap can drive you crazy at night, going nuts and ringing an emergency plumber is highly costly and not the answer. Rather than wasting money on a hiring a professional plumber to solve the simple job, you can do it yourself. However, be sure to do it quickly, as a leaking tap can end up wasting a lot of water. Almost 20,000 liters of water can be washed right down the drain and be wasted with a year of a dripping tap. To ensure you fix your dripping tap, follow the steps below: 

What you’ll need:

When preparing to fix your dripping tap you will need a few tools and different materials. In terms of tools, you will have to pull out of your tool kit a screwdriver and either a wrench or spanner. You will also require a jumper valve, washers, o-ring, cloth and if necessary a resenting kit. In terms of selecting the right washer, most homes use 12mm washers.

It is important before carrying out the procedure to first consult your council or water authority. They will be able to advise you of any legal requirements of regulations you need to follow. Additionally, whilst performing the job ensure you keep children away from any materials and tools to avoid injury.

Washers

The dripping tap could be a result of one or more of the three washers that make up the tap. It may be either the body washer, the jumper valve or the o-ring that needs to be replaced. You will be able to tell by looking at the washers, which one is causing you trouble, as the offending washer will be very worn. It is very important to ensure you replace the worn washer with the right size. If you are unsure, the professionals at your hardware shop will be able to help advise you on the correct washer. Just simply take the worn washers with you and they will point you in the right direction.

Steps to replace the washer

Step 1:

The first step is to turn the water main off in your home. If you are unsure where your water main is, for homes they are normally located either in the front yard or out of the street. For those who live in an apartment or townhouse, you will find mains taps within the laundry or bathroom.

Step 2:

When the water main is off, drain any remaining water by opening the tap. Any leftover water will run out.

Step 3:

Ensure you tap parts fall down into the drain by placing the plug in the basin. That way you won’t have to worry about parts disappearing down into the drain!

Step 4:

Use a screwdriver to remove the tap’s cover. This can be achieved by exposing the screw, which is usually found underneath the hot or cold sign on a tap. Once you’ve located the screw, undo it and take off the handle.

Step 5:

In the instance where the tap is covered with a metal cover, either utilize a wrench or even unscrew it by hand. Protect the chrome from getting scratched by covering with a cloth.

Step 6:

Unscrew the tap bonnet using either a wrench of a spanner. Remove the headgear repeatedly, which should reveal all three washers.

Step 7:

You will notice that the jumper valve will simply fall out. Be sure to replace all three washers and then refit the spindle and bonnet. Be carefully not to over tighten the must when you are refitting everything.

Step 7:

Next, be sure to re-assemble the tap. Once this is done, close it and then go to the water main and turn the water back on.

Step 8:

Test to make sure the leaking has stopped.

In the instance where the leaking does not cease, be sure to call a professional Plumber Adelaide. The team at Best Plumbing offer a variety of different plumbing skills, which you can find out more about at www.bestplumbing.com.au.

The basics of horse rations

Learn the basics about preferred horse feed rations for the best performance. A balanced diet for your animal combines forages, concentrates and where necessary, supplements.

Forages are an essential part of the diet of any horse. Also known as roughage, this material is organic in nature, and includes legumes, grasses and hay. Horse nutritionists regularly recommend that at least 50% of the diet by weight be made up of forages, as this is high in fiber and high in nutrients. Unfortunately, where the material is disadvantaged is that it does not contain the necessary energy for many horses. Grain is a concentrate which offers a much richer energy source, and so this makes up the remainder of the diet. However, certain horses will require much more energy than others, and so the ratio is likely to change. For example, horses that are in a stage of growth will require much more energy than those that have matured, and likewise horses who are racing or working hard will have higher demands. The ratio of concentrate to forage can vary widely, but the forage ration should never dip below 1% of the horse's daily diet by weight.
Legumes are a form of forage that provide more energy than grasses. Clover and alfalfa are some common choices that owners use to boost the energy percentages while still offering essential minerals and nutrients including calcium and proteins for muscle growth and repair. All horses will react slightly differently, and some owners report that alfalfa in particular offers too much energy too quickly, resulting in 'fizz', or undesirable spirited behavior. Hay is a dried mixture of both legumes and grasses. In order to provide your horse with the optimum nutrition, all of these organic elements need to be of high quality and fresh. Straw or chaff is a final roughage choice, however should be used in conjunction with other elements, as in itself it has little nutritional value.

Concentrates can be whole or crushed. Oats, corn, barley and wheat are the grains of choice for horses, with the former two being the most popular. Oats are used for their fiber while corn is great for digestible energy. There are pellets available that have the advantage of combining grains in a predictable and proven combination, however they can be expensive over long periods of time. COB is the acronym assigned to a mixture which incorporates the common three grains of corn, oats and barley. For owners who do not consider themselves expert in the nutrition of horses, or who don't have access to professional nutrition advice, a premixed concentrate is a wise choice. Changing your horse's diet overnight can have massive repercussions, so make sure that your nutrition source is sustainable, or if you do need to alter proportions, then you do it gradually.

If grain and forages are of the highest quality, then they will be adequate in providing your Horse Supplies with the nutrients, fiber and energy that they need. However, in many instances additional supplements are required to boost any areas that are lacking. For example, many climates or soil conditions will not be ideal for growing grasses, and as such the nutritional quality will be substantially lower. What's more, horses who work more than usual or who are stressed for some other reason will also be likely candidates for supplements.

For optimum nutrition, the best ration should be available in conjunction with a constant supply of fresh water. At any time when you require advice or would like to purchase premium horse feed ingredients, simply visit Southern Cross Feeds at http://southerncrossfeeds.com.au/.

Maintaining your horse's hooves

Find the ultimate horse supplies tips to keep your horse's feet looking healthy and feeling comfortable. Horses are on their feet for long periods at a time. However, contrary to popular belief they are able to doze standing up but can quite comfortably sleep lying down. Even with some rest, their hooves are in constant contact with the ground.

Begin handling your horse's hooves at an early age so that your foal is comfortable with you. It is no secret that a spooked animal will kick out, which is frightening and can cause injury. If the first time you touch their legs and hooves in when they are a yearling, then you could increase the risk of harm, not to mention stressing your horse.

Next, a very simple tip is to check your animal's hooves before each ride. If a stone has happened to become wedged in, the weight of carrying a rider could cause pain and distress, particularly if you plan on jumping or galloping. It is also advisable to check the hooves following a ride, and before you put them into the stable. Take extra care to be gentle while still removing all debris, as any injuries to the hooves will be serious to fix. Always keep in mind what is normal for your horse. Any irregularities in temperature or pulse should be investigated immediately.

There are four big signs to watch out for every time you go to pick out your horse's feet. A dark ooze that later becomes cheesy in texture is a symptom of thrush, a bacterial infection. The infection is attributed to standing for long periods of time in manure or other unsanitary conditions. It sounds very serious, and if left untreated it can cause lameness. But the good news is that in the short terms this is easily treatable if diagnosed early. Lining stalls with shavings rather than straw is a good tip to minimize the risk of thrush, especially for those naturally prone to it. The next common problem is a puncture, where your horse's hoof has trodden on a foreign object which has become embedded. If the object is still there, then leave it untouched and call for a veterinarian immediately so that xrays can be carried out. If it has penetrated a major artery, removal could cause severe bleeding, as well as an abscess. Throbbing as well as heat is the main symptom of this condition, and is incredibly serious. An untreated abscess can cause scarring of the hooves and even be fatal in some cases.

Shod horses will need to be checked very regularly, as any number of issues can arise with shoes. The nails may have been incorrectly place in the first place, or the show itself could have sprung or shifted. In fact, even an untrained owner can learn to remove a show themselves with the help of a farrier's instruction. Finally, trim your hooves regularly to make sure you animal is as comfortable as possible. They grow about a quarter of an inch every month, meaning that after not long the shoe will no longer fit if they are not clipped. Diet and exercise can keep your horse in great shape with a silky mane and with strong and healthy hooves. Just like humans need calcium for strong nails and teeth, horses also need an individualized nutritional plan to ensure they are on the top of their game. Without regular exercise, hooves also run at increased risk of becoming weak and brittle. A biotin supplement added to your horse's ration over the course of a year would not go astray. Some people report no difference while others cite this as the answer to all of their hoof dilemmas. Visit Southern Cross Feeds at http://southerncrossfeeds.com.au for expert horse supplies and Horse Feed knowledge.

How plumbing has changed over the centuries

We can trace the origins of plumbing right back to the Ancient Greeks and the Ancient Romans. Both these two civilizations made significant advances in how we use water to remove waste and clean ourselves. It is because of this primitive work that we are now able to receive immediate emergency plumber assistance in Melbourne today.

The island of Crete was the site of one of the big discoveries, which was a flushing toilet. The Minoan Palace of Knossos, created in 1700 BC, housed the first such device which held a small reservoir of water which then washed waste away into a complex pipe system that was laid under the palace floors during construction. This device showed incredible innovation, but sadly was buried in the ruins of the city for many years. The closest anyone else came to this invention was in England in the 16^th century when Sir John Harrington was credited with something very similar in design to the ancient version. And then, it was a further 200 years before the modern flushing toilet was developed by Alexander Cumming. So we have Greece to thank for basic sanitation, and Rome to thank for a dedication to personal hygiene.

The Greeks are also the ones who are able to boast the mastery of distinguishing hot and cold water. Despite this impressive luxury, the toughened Spartans believed that a hot shower or bath was not manly. Instead, their preferred rinse consisted of a slave pouring a bucket of cold water over them, in an instant refreshment. It is this mindset that prevented the widespread use of early hot water systems in Greece. The Romans however, had a different idea, and made the most of steaming baths. For the Ancient Romans, bathing was an act of socializing as well as getting clean. The impressive public baths that the city is renowned for now lie in ruins, although even this hint of the former structure is enough to leave most onlookers in awe.

These baths required massive amounts of water, and so the problem of water transportation was one of the big issues that needed solving. The magnificent Roman aqueduct was formed and built throughout the city. These structures were meticulously measured so that they slanted only several degrees over vast distances. The Romans understood the property of water to seek the lowest point, and so used this gravity to their advantage. Unfortunately, they were yet to appreciate the scientific concepts of germs and stagnant water, which is why the baths were a place of disease spreading.

In many other cultures, this lack of understanding about the dangers of human waste would be highly detrimental. London's rivers were soon putrid and foul, as ware was simply flushed straight into these waterways. Early plumbing relied on lead and wood, meaning that the 1666 Great Fire of London counted much of the plumbing in its list of casualties. The word plumbing comes from the Latin term 'plumus' meaning lead. While the very first pipes were made of wood and clay, the Romans soon discovered the benefits of using metal, particularly lead, to craft their water systems.

While today's domestic plumbing industry is focused on completing the job efficiently, in the beginnings of plumbing, the focus was about invention. Today, we are able to enjoy highly developed systems which are only posible thanks to these early innovations. We have so much more knowledge about sanitation and disease that many of the early problems have been able to be overcome. Unfortunately, even with this knowledge and technology, plumbing issues can still occur, and the best course of action is to find a solution as quickly as possible. Get in touch with a respected emergency plumber specialist in Melbourne, Block Drains Melbourne from Chadoak at http://chadoak.com.au.

Strange things could be lurking in your pipes

Even the most experienced emergency plumber professional in Melbourne is still surprised at some of the things that they find in household plumbing systems. It is not known why so many people seem to view their toilet as a trash can. Instead of simply walking ot the bin under the sink or the outdoor garbage bin, many people think it is just easier to flush something away in their bathroom. Perhaps it is that they want to get rid of something secretly. Unfortunately for them, the toilet plan of attack is ill thought out, as more often than not the foreign object will cause a blockage, which will need to be fixed by a plumber. Your secret flushing will be secret no longer. As such, plumbers are privy to some hilarious finds, and some that are just plain bizarre. Cigarettes that people think they are secretly disposing of is a common culprit. The dead goldfish is another popular find, although these little guys rarely cause much of a problem.

In Japan in 2009, tens of thousands worth of glimmering gold was pulled from a sewer system. This even occurred during a bad recession, and so it is unknown whether the goods were stolen and therefore carried some sort of burden on the previous owner, or whether they thought that flushing such a bounty would be a way of storing it safely. Other items are more accidental, such as iPhones, keys and even underwear have been reported. Jewellery can also be a particularly expensive loss. A word to the wise: empty your pockets before entering the bathroom! Or if something does fall, don't flush the toilet. This will compound your predicament, with a damaged item and a blocked toilet.

The toilet isn't the only entrance point, and sometimes things just find their way into pipes from an outdoor drain or pipe outlet. This means that plumbers called to a house can sometimes get a bit of a shock when they are greeted with a pair of eyes. A moist pipe outlet would look like the perfect nesting place or burrow for a number of animals, which is why pipes become a not so rare place to find animals, both living and those who have gotten stuck and died. In Scotland, a live badger was found struggling inside a pipe. They thought the job was just a routine drain cleaning, but instead they made a new friend. He was able to be rescued, unharmed. In some cases, the toilet is actually the exit point. It is the stuff of nightmares, but snakes have been known to survive in the pipes and surface in domestic toilet bowls. This is not just urban legend. Everything from rattle snakes to seven foot boa constrictors have been encountered in the bathroom. It is enough to make you double check under the rim for the rest of your life. While boas might give you a nasty shock, they are not immediately dangerous if you slam the lid quickly, as they squeeze their prey. The rattle snake and other venimous varieties are the ones to look out for and worry about, especially as they are likely to be just as shocked as you and would understandably get a bit defensive.

Perhaps the most impressive find was in Laberta, Canada. A storm sewer which was encountered during construction for a housing development was the resting place of a dinosaur fossil. Experts believe that the find belonged to a Hypacrosaurus. There is no doubt that the life of an elite emergency plumber specialist in Melbourne, Roof Leaks Melbourne can be an exciting and strange one, and for all of your problems you can call Chadoak or visit http://chadoak.com.au.

To pebble or to pave, that is the question

Both pebbles and paving can be highly functional and allow plenty of creative freedom when it comes to their design. So how can you decide between the two? Both creative pebbling and artistic paving layouts in Adelaide can have their benefits as well as their pitfalls, and the best option depends on a number of individual factors.

Pebbles are not the first thought for many home owners looking to add a new style to their property, as they are not as popular and common as pavers. But this uniqueness is something that attracts many. While paving follows a distinct pattern, the use of pebbles is far from uniform. No two gardens will ever look the same. Smaller stones are a great way to mix up a space that is otherwise too uniform, with straight edges, metals and too many hard surfaces. Pebbles of course look more natural than perfect square pavers, and therefore look more at home beside a pond or in a green garden. They can look reminiscent of a relaxing beach or flowing stream. In fact, smaller stones can even help your greenery to thrive. In some cases, gardeners use pebbles as an alternative to mulch in an effort to capture water and trickle it through to nearby soil and plants. For garden paths, the most popular type of gravel is pea gravel, and this is a highly cost effective option.

Unfortunately, a major drawback for both pebbles and gravel is that they can be a pain to walk on if you enjoy exploring your garden barefoot. Their size also means that they can get caught in everything, from toes to car tyres. And finally, while paver can be swept, there is no way of cleaning your gravel or pebble area. This means that any thing from critters to just lots of dirt and dust could be lurking. This is barely a problem for most people, after all the gravel is outside and outside there is bound ot be dust. However for people with asthma or severe dust allergies, the extra irritants can cause a problem when stirred. Paver are smooth, fuss free and easy to walk on. They will not thin out in the high traffic areas as gravel has a tendency to do. While they are often the most expensive option, many home owners agree that the investment is well worth the safety and ease of use for many years in the future.

Larger, smooth pebbles should only be used for more aesthetic purposes, as they are significantly less stable than both gravel and paver. If they are intended for a pathway, they will need to be quite flat an also secured in place with some sort of filler. Pebbles are considerably more expensive than gravel depending on the type that you choose. Considering that you will need to be very selective about the shape of your pebbles for a safe path, this could be quite a costly exercise. While rolling a wheelbarrow is easiest on paving, it is not overly difficult across gravel. The real difficulty only comes when trying to man oeuvre it across a pebbled surface that is very uneven.

If you are finding it difficult to isolate one clear decision, then perhaps you might want to consider a landscaping design that unites the two. There are plenty of examples to get inspiration from, with a popular choice being a foundation of pebbles upon which stone paver stepping stones are positioned. For more tips about choosing the ultimate paving solution in Adelaide, and Fencing Adelaide  for your unique situation, please contact Thompson Landscaping Adelaide at http://thompsonlandscapingadelaide.com.au.