By Michele Lerner January 2 at 7:25 AM

Frustrated first-time buyers may be more successful if they opt to look at newly constructed buildings in the tight Washington real estate market.

Becca Russell-Einhorn and her husband, Waseem Abu Rakia, had been outbid by other buyers for two resale homes, but when their real estate agent suggested that they look at a one-bedroom loft at 2920 Georgia Ave. NW in Columbia Heights, their dream of homeownership became a reality.

We ended up choosing a two-bedroom home because we plan to stay here for five to 10 years at least, Russell-Einhorn said. We feel like we got an amazing deal because we had looked at lots of smaller units in other buildings for the same price, plus we were able to get a corner unit with lots of windows.

Chris Hook, another new resident at 2920 Georgia Ave., had been looking for a home to buy for 18 months and stopped into the building on a whim. I really like the contemporary finishes in the building but also the fact that its a relatively small building without outrageous condo fees, Hook said. Plus the price is great for the size of the units. Ive looked at studios that were priced the same as the one-bedroom homes here. I could live right on U Street for more money and less space, or live here within walking distance of U Street.

Hook is moving from an English basement, so hes particularly excited about the big south-facing windows that fill his new home with natural light.

Attention to detail: Linde Development, which built 2920 Georgia Ave., started in the 1920s constructing townhouses in Logan Circle, says Kurt Rieschick, sales manager with McWilliams Ballard.

About 20 years ago, Art Linde took over Linde Development and has been focusing on apartments and condo development, Rieschick said. He pays a lot of attention to details, and even better, he takes constructive criticism really well. He talks to buyers at every one of his buildings and then makes improvements based on their feedback.

Some of the details Rieschick points to are the sanded-in-place hardwood flooring and pocket doors.

At 2920 Georgia Ave., the floor plans have been designed efficiently so that they seem larger than their square feet. Every unit has at least one floor-to-ceiling window, large closets, a full-size washer and dryer, and hardwood flooring. The baths have porcelain tile flooring, and each kitchen has white quartz countertops, stainless-steel appliances, and European-style cabinets in high-gloss white or Graffiata Planare, a darker wood tone.

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Big windows, attractive details at 2920 Georgia Ave. condominiums

Cleaning is not fun. And as the kitchen and bathroom are potentially the messiest rooms of the house, cleaning them is usually most neededand most dreaded. Luckily, the advent of antimicrobial surfaces and other self-cleaning materials are making these spaces less and less of a hassle to disinfect. Repelling or resisting bacteria, dust, mold, mildew, stains, waterspots or fingerprints, these products are making kitchens and baths easier to keep clean.

In general, toilets with antimicrobial agents in the coating have fewer stains and odors than untreated bowls, said Ann Porter, CKD, of Kitchen Studio of Naples, Inc. in Florida. Faucet aerators enhanced with antimicrobials experience slower growth of bacteria, mold and mildew. Antimicrobial caulks degrade slower and stain less than untreated brands.

Antimicrobial can be a broad term and confusing term, however. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates the use of antimicrobials and the types of claims the manufacturers can make. Typically, antimicrobial products have been made or treated with a chemical substance approved and registered by the EPA to inhibit growth of bacteria, molds and fungus. Although these agents do not keep items entirely clean, they do aid in colorfastness, reduce staining and odors and decrease the breakdown of the material, increasing its durability.

Manufacturers are only permitted to claim that the product itself is protected from such microbes, not that the antimicrobial properties of the treated article will protect people. The EPA is concerned that if consumers do not understand the benefits of antimicrobials in products, they may alter their basic hygiene practices and place themselves and others at risk.

The key point to remember is that products treated with antimicrobial agents are not classified the same as a product intended to destroy bacteria, mold or algae, said Porter. Those products are registered with the EPA as antimicrobial pesticides.

Debate has arisen over whether or not antimicrobial products are safe. The level of risk depends on who you ask, said Porter. Think of the pesticide as a topical antibacterial cleaner. Some people believe anything stronger than vinegar or hydrogen peroxide is harmful. Lysol and chlorine bleach are considered pesticides and are regulated by the EPA. Antibacterial cutting boards, towels, sponges and other goods are regulated by the Consumer Product Safety Commission but the EPA must grant permission for the use of an antimicrobial agent in these products. More studies are underway to assess whether antimicrobial products are potentially harmful.

In the meantime, following is a roundup of some products that promise to ease the pain of keeping a clean kitchen and bathroom.

[1] Silestone Countertops With its built-in antimicrobial product protection, Silestone quartz countertops are a clean surfacing option in the kitchen and bath. Antimicrobial product protection inhibits the growth of microbes, such as odor-causing bacteria, mold and mildew. While antimicrobial product protection does not protect users from food-borne illness and is not a substitute for normal cleaning practices, it does result in countertops that are easier to clean and stay clean. In addition to being a safer surface for areas where food preparation takes place, Silestone has received certifications from the National Sanitation Foundation and the GREENGUARD Environmental Institute for protecting the quality of indoor air because it has low-to-no emission (off gassing) of toxic chemicals. For more information, visit http://www.SilestoneUSA.com.[2] Nano-tec-USAs NanoBionics Architectural Products NanoBionics treatments can make various surfaces in a kitchen or bath virtually self-cleaning. Nanotec-USA has products for treating stainless steel, marble, granite, composite countertops, most solid surfacing countertops, ceramics (including painted ceramic-coated appliances), glass, grout and plastic found in many bath and shower set-ups. The compankys NanoBionic treatments work by anchoring specially engineered Bionic nanoparticles directly with the molecules of the treated surface to create a permanent protective nanoscopic mesh, similar to the skin of a shark. These tiny new structures provide water- and dirt-repellent features as seen in nature. The treated surfaces will be easy to clean or, in many cases, self-cleaning. For more information, visit http://www.Nanotec-USA.com. [Editors Note: No photo available.]

[3] Miele Chef Microwave with Clean Touch Steel Mieles Chef Series microwave oven features Clean Touch Steel technology, a specially treated steel that virtually eliminates fingerprints and scratches while letting the natural stainless steel shine through. The oven also wipes clean with a damp cloth, reducing the need for special polishes or potentially toxic chemicals in the home. The complete Miele oven collection comprises convection, speed, steam and microwave ovens. Matching lift doors with Clean Touch Steel are also offered to hide small appliances such as mixers and toasters. For more information, visit http://www.MieleUSA.com.[4] Blancos Silgranit II Sink Blancos Silgranit II sink, now available in a warm biscotti color, is made of a patented formula of 80 percent granite and 20 percent acrylic resin. This combination is stronger than granite alone and is completely nonporous and scratch- and stain-resistant. Silgranit II is resistant to temperatures over 536 degrees Fahrenheit and stands up to acid, chips and impact from dropped plates, pots and more. It also defies the effects of hard water deposits and wipes or rinses clean. Extremely hygienic and safe for preparing food, its indelible colors will never fade. Featuring the look and feel of natural stone, Silgranit II comes in six colors and 21 shapes, including double bowl, super single bowl, bar and prep sink styles. For more information, visit http://www.BlancoAmerica.com.[5] Top Knobs Top Knobs unique sealed finish gives its product an even look that will never age or show wear. The oils from ones hands can change the color of a finish over time, causing heavily used knobs and pulls to look different from others in a kitchen or bath as their finish is rubbed off. A proprietary sealed finish protects the light patina and natural distressed look so every knob maintains its color and finishand is backed by a lifetime warranty. One of Top Knobs latest collections is the Aspen Collection, which is handcrafted from art-grade bronze ingots, with 180 elements ranging from $8 to over $200 per piece. For more information, visit http://www.TopKnobsUSA.com.[6] DuPont Corian Solid Surfaces Low-maintenance DuPont Corian solid surfaces are nonporous, do not require sealing andwith proper, easy cleaningdo not promote the growth of mold, mildew or bacteria. Corian solid surfaces can also be renewedstains and scratches can be easily removed to restore it to its original appearance. They can be used for numerous applications throughout the home, including countertops, backsplashes, vanity tops, interior wall surfaces and tub and shower surrounds. Designing coved backsplashes and integrated sinks with Corian makes for seamless surfaces in the kitchen and bath, eliminating hard-to-clean joints. The material is available in more than 100 colors, including tranquil (shown). For more information, visit http://www.Countertops.DuPont.com.[7] LG Induction Cooktop LGs cooktops with induction technology deliver efficient cooking times and fast speed-to-boil performance that are not only more energy efficient, but also offer a cleaner, safer cooking environment. Because only the pan is heated and not the ceramic cooktop surface, spillovers do not cook or burn onto the cooktops. With just a quick glance of the centralized Intuitive SmoothTouch Controls, users can see which heating elements are activated and easily wipe off spills or spots on the cooktop that are not in direct contact with pans while the cooktop is in use. For more information, visit http://www.LG.com/us/appliances. [8] Whirlpool Resource Saver Double Oven Range Whirlpools Resource Saver Double Oven Range fits in the same cutout space as a regular-sized range and provides the benefits of a double oven without the built-in cost. In addition, the double oven is equipped with an eco-friendly SteamClean option, which spot cleans either oven in 20 minutes and is recommended for cleaning light spills on the bottom of the oven cavity. Simply pour 1 1/2 cup of water into the bottom of the oven cavity, close the oven door and push the SteamClean button. At the end of the cycle, wipe the bottom of the oven, easily removing oven soils. When used routinely, it reduces the need for frequent self-clean cycle use, which can create a strong odor. In addition, the ranges eco-friendly Schott Ceran cooktop minimizes cleanup with a smooth glass surface that withstands intense heat without cracking or chipping. http://www.Whirlpool.com.[9] Kohler Flipside Showerhead In addition to four distinct showering sprays in one, Kohlers four-sided Flipside Showerhead features a MasterClean sprayface. This type of faucet sprayface has silicone nozzles that withstand mineral buildup and can be cleaned simply by rubbing the sprayface with your fingers. For more information, visit http://www.kohler.com.[10] Sterling Plumbings Shower Doors Sterling has developed CleanCoat technology, a factory-installed special surface treatment that prevents dirt and water minerals from collecting on surfaces. Included on all Sterling Frameless shower doors, CleanCoat prevents droplets from streaking and keeps the glass doors looking cleaner longer. The companys door tracks also take the sweat out of cleaning. Traditional shower doors run on a W-shaped track with grooves and channels that tend to collect water and soap scum buildup, making them difficult to keep clean. By contrast, Sterling bypass shower doorsboth framed and framelessfeature smooth or semi-smooth tracks that are devoid of these crevices, therefore reducing buildup and debris. In addition, the doors offer maximum access to the bottom tracks, making the latter easy to wipe clean. For more information, visit http://www.SterlingPlumbing.com.[11] Sherwin-Williams Duration Home Interior Acrylic Latex Paint Duration Home Interior Acrylic Latex Paint from Sherwin-Williams is ideal for high-activity and high-moisture areas like the kitchen and bath. The washable latex coating allows most stains to wipe clean with water, and its antimicrobial formula resists mildew growth. Available in a variety of finishes and colors, the paint is also low in VOCs and odors for better indoor air quality. For more information, visit http://www.Sherwin-Williams.com.[12] Native Trails Copper Sinks The natural ability of copper to reduce the risk of spreading bacteria makes sinks and tubs, like those handcrafted of recycled copper by Native Trails, perfect for helping to disinfect a kitchen or bath. Scientific evidence now shows that copper kills 99 percent of bacteria, including super bugs like MRSA, within two hours of contact. Research also has shown that H1N1, commonly referred to as the swine flu virus, likewise does not survive on copper. Based on a review of the studies and its own independent lab tests, the EPA earlier this year announced that copper has antimicrobial properties, capable of killing bacteria as well as viruses. For more information, visit http://www.NativeTrails.net.[13] American Standards EverClean Systems and Surfaces American Standard offers the EverClean surface on sinks, toilets and toilet seats, as well as the EverClean system in its whirlpool and airbath systems. EverClean is a silver-based, permanent surface that inhibits the growth of stain and odor-causing bacteria, mold and mildew. On the toilets and sinks, it makes the surface super-smooth, repelling dirt and toiletries from accumulating, so the products stay cleaner longer, even after years of use. The EverClean finish comes standard with the Champion 4 series, Cadet 3 series and FloWise toilets. The EverClean whirlpool system is unique to American Standard whirlpools and airbaths. It is molded directly into the water circulation components to inhibit the growth of mold and mildew on the pipes. For more information, visit http://www.AmericanStandard-US.com.[14] Deltas Addison Kitchen Faucet Deltas Addison kitchen faucet has several features that make life easier on the cleaning front. If hands are dirty, Touch2O Technology lets you turn the water on with a tap of the wrist or elbow anywhere on the spout or handle. The Touch-Clean system features spray holes made of soft rubber, allowing the user to easily wipe away mineral buildup with a wipe of the finger. The Addison also features DIAMOND Seal Technology, which uses InnoFlex waterways as well as the DIAMOND valve. This lead-free waterway system ensures that water entering the faucet does not come in contact with metal contaminants. It also provides protection from leaks and drips by reducing the number of potential leak points and is easier to install. Harnessing the durability of diamonds, the leak-free valve lasts up to 10 times longer than the industry standard. For more information, visit http://www.DeltaFaucet.com.

[15] Bemis Toilet Seat Bemis Manufacturing Co.s redesign of its popular plastic toilet seat is now available in a premium version that incorporates the EasyClean & Change system and DuraGuard, an antimicrobial agent integrated into the seat. The EasyClean & Change system allows the seat to be lifted off with a simple twist of the hinge cap for easy cleaning (or replacement) while the mounting bolts stay in place. By inhibiting the growth of bacteria that cause stain and odors on seats, DuraGuard not only promotes better hygiene but also delivers a cleaner, fresher feeling. For more information, visit http://www.BemisMfg.com.

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Easy-to-Clean Products

Traditional family room photo by david hugh bragdon

Sun staff photos can be ordered by visiting our SmugMug site.

Decorating styles have certainly changed with time. In the days when only a few interior styles were recognized, you could surely pin down a style that suited your taste. Traditional, modern or contemporary were your choices. Today when the question is asked, "what's your style," the answer may still be traditional or contemporary but most often it's "I don't know."

In today's world of ever-changing styles it's easy to be confused. Having a decorating identity crisis is normal. Style terms such as shabby chic or rustic modern, coastal and industrial could confuse anyone. These are newer more recent styles that have emerged in the design world in the last 10 to 15 years.

Traditional style today describes a more dressed-down look, more casual.

Sun staff photos can be ordered by visiting our SmugMug site.

Shabby chic is one style that has overtaken the decor world when decorating on a budget. This style was made popular by decorator Rachel Ashwell at a time in her life when she was starting over and wanted to create a comfortable home for her and her children; that meant decorating on a budget. Flea market finds of repurposed furnishings, painted tables, pictures and lamps all add charm to a room's look.

Rustic modern is a style that may turn historic designers over in their graves. A popular style mostly found in kitchen design, it's a combination of modern style paired with rustic furnishings. Salvage wood is used in cabinets or installed on an island base. Modern accessories, fine lines, mid-century furnishings such as bar stools with iron legs, combine to help create this look. Lighting with a contemporary feel and clean sparse walls would describe this decorating style.

Coastal style is easy-breezy. Whites, off whites, soft blues and greens make up this style, along with neutral slipcovers, and textured area rugs of sisal or seagrass. Add some painted or driftwood tables and completing this look is an easy one.

Industrial is a style prominent for city dwellers and loft lovers. It's found more often in old mill buildings transformed into loft living spaces. Exposed beams, high wood ceilings with wood floors and brick walls add warmth to these unique spaces. Iron support columns and vintage mill artifacts are a feature that can be found in most of these transformed buildings.

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Defining the terms of home decor can help you choose what suits you

EVANSTON, Ill. - An 1890s Tudor mansion with an interior decorator for an owner isn't the first place you'd picture a Ms. Pac-Man arcade game blinking in the living room and kids whizzing through the oak-paneled foyer on skateboards.

"We have a very casual lifestyle, and we have a lot of kids here constantly," Jodi Morton said. "It's organized chaos, and I kind of like it that way."

To just about anyone, the Space Invaders arcade game (next to Ms. Pac-Man) and the drum kit (next to the grand piano) would be an improvement over what preceded them: Pigeons roosting in the fireplace and mice scampering throughout the dark interior.

"The house was in very sad disrepair when we bought it," Morton said. "There were no electrical outlets and the entire first floor was covered by pea-green shag carpeting. Millions of animals were residing in the house because it had been vacant for over a year and a half. It would have been a tear-down if it wasn't in a historic preservation district."

Her husband, David Morton, co-owner of DMK Restaurants, saw past the water damage on the first floor and the fire damage on the second, where the four bedrooms had been fitted with locks for boarders at some point.

He admired the lead glass windows, the open vistas from dining room to foyer to living room, and the second-floor library with beamed ceiling, a hallmark of architect Ernest Mayo, who designed many homes in Evanston, Ill., north of Chicago.

For years, the Mortons had been designing their own restaurant interiors and buying and fixing up homes, a hobby that launched their business, 2to5design.

This edifice presented unprecedented challenges.

They bought it anyway.

Selling their north suburban Northfield home, they moved into an Evanston hotel with their three children, ages 9 months to 5 years. They spent the next six months there while crews stripped out asbestos, brought the wiring up to code, laid new wood floors and made the 8,000-square-foot house partially habitable.

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Reviving a Tudor, their way

ASHLAND, Ore. (AP) Squint as you walk by a decomposing Douglas fir structure on a residential street in Ashland and you'll see patches of peeling paint, called Southern Pacific yellow, peeking out through glassless windows. Stop. There's more to the story.

Barricaded behind weather-beaten boards and, until recently, shrouded by towering cottonwood trees and 10-foot-tall blackberry bushes is the city's first train depot. This significant piece of the state's past has been missing for a half century.

It was built in 1884. Charles Crocker, one of the Big Four of the Central Pacific Railroad, stood by Ashland's train depot three years later as he drove a symbolic golden spike into the last section of tracks circumnavigating the U.S, finally linking Oregon to California, and transforming Oregon's economy.

Fast forward to the landmark today: Inch by inch, a congregation of volunteers is unearthing the Queen Anne-style building and piecing together the curious story of how the decommissioned train depot was moved stealthily in the 1960s from the rail yard to this nondescript lot about three miles away.

The structure's survival remained a secret until this summer, when the property was sold by representatives of the third generation of the family that lived inside it. As word of the discovery slowly reaches city officials and historians, the reaction is the same: Who knew?

"I rode by this house for years," says Amy Gunter, a city employee who serves on the Ashland Historic Commission, "and never had a clue what was behind the walls."

The long-lost train depot was "hiding in plain sight," says historian Victoria Law, who operated the Ashland Railroad Museum and maintains an archive of railroad memorabilia.

Finding the gabled depot was a surprise, but it's not uncommon for homeowners to stumble upon vintage architectural elements hidden in their houses, especially during renovations.

Just as classic car collectors speak in hushed tones about "garage finds" long-forgotten gems camouflaged by dust or tarps there could be a bonanza of Victorian hardware, Arts & Crafts tile, vintage light fixtures and other valuables holed up in your home.

A number of Pioneer Era houses are "buried" inside later additions, says Peggy Moretti, executive director of the preservation group Restore Oregon.

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Old house surprise: Missing Ashland depot

Laminate Flooring Installation Timelapse

By: Scott Weber

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Laminate Flooring Installation Timelapse - Video

Laguna Beach Flooring Installation Contractor
Laguna Beach Flooring Installation Contractor is just a phone call away at 949-716-6611 or by visiting http://californiaflooringservice.com Laguna Beach Floo...

By: Jason Ramsay

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Laguna Beach Flooring Installation Contractor - Video

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) With a wide variety of colors and finishes, wood tiles are giving real wood floors a run for their money.

The high definition that the manufacturers have been printing on these tiles give the grain a natural look. And then, like I said, the feel. You can feel the grain in it so it seems real, said flooring expert Cory Steenbergen.

So real, even savvy homeowners are usually fooled.

When they look at them, they actually dont believe that theyre actual tiles, said Steenbergen.

In addition to their realistic look, you dont have to worry about the wear and tear that frustrates many homeowners with solid hardwood flooring.

This is way more durable, said Steenbergen. You will never have fading, scratches, chips, nicks, the fading of the finish, doesnt need to be sealed. Its super easy to clean. Theres no warpage, so you dont have to worry about water being on it.

Wood-look tile is one of the latest trends these days for anywhere you might have a chance in getting water in your home, said Angie Hicks of Angies List. So, your kitchen, your bathroom, laundry room, even your basement.

While these tile planks are slightly more expensive than your typical tiles, flooring experts say theyre a smart investment.

They can range from $2 to $5 more than your 1212 porcelain, but the quality that you get from them and the longevity of the tile, you cant beat it and its going to give a nice warm, modern look to a remodel, said Steenbergen.

The downside? Tiles may help keep your home cooler in the summer, but they may not be so comfortable in the winter if you live in a cold climate. Installation also needs to be perfect. Angies List says flaws will show.

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Angies List: Wood Tile Vs. Real Wood Floors

1983 Mercedes-Benz 240D - part 133: carpet installation
In this video, I begin installing the carpeting in my 1983 Mercedes-Benz 240D. check out my blog: http://mercedesdieselguy.blogspot.com.

By: MercedesDieselGuy

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1983 Mercedes-Benz 240D - part 133: carpet installation - Video

January 2, 2015 Updated Jan 2, 2015 at 1:31 PM CST

Duluth, MN (NNCNOW.com) --- With the New Year finally here and resolutions being made left and right, consider conserving energy to cut down on your utility bill.

Many assume there is little, if nothing, they can do to significantly reduce their energy use and increase the efficiency of their homes.

There are multiple ways people can significantly reduce their energy use and increase the efficiency of their homes.

The Minnesota Department of Commerce strongly recommends having an advanced home energy assessment, or home energy audit, before embarking on home energy improvements or remodeling.

An assessment of how your house is functioning can help decide what needs fixing, upgrading or replacing.

Energy audits will vary by price and the level of detail and types of tests provided. The most comprehensive energy assessment would include the following:

A review of energy bills to help assess home performance and identify opportunities for savings.

A blowerdoor test to determine air leakage.

Infrared scans of walls, attic, and foundation to assess insulation levels and locate sources of air leaks.

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Energy saving tips