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The average salary for a Landscape Architect is $58,111.

How has your pay changed over time for your market? Find out by taking our salary quiz.

A landscape architect designs outdoor spaces for residential, commercial and public use. The landscape architect provides consultations to clients to assess their needs and determine how the desired concept could be carried out. The architect makes sure that the plan is appropriate for human use and the environment. They use AutoCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite and/or other related software to design landscapes for the clients approval; the ability to read and create blueprints is also imporRead more

Landscape Architect Tasks

The top respondents for the job title Landscape Architect are from the companies SWA Group, Norris Design and Olsson Associates. Reported salaries are highest at Stantec where the average pay is $64,715. Other companies that offer high salaries for this role include SWA Group and SmithGroupJJR, earning around $64,000 and $58,000, respectively. Olsson Associates pays the lowest at around $47,917. Norris Design and Kimley - Horn and Associates, Inc also pay on the lower end of the scale, paying $51,690 and $54,306, respectively.

Skills in Design, Project Management and Client Interaction are correlated to pay that is above average. Skills that pay less than market rate include Adobe Photoshop and Autodesk AutoCAD.

An entry-level Landscape Architect with less than 1 year experience can expect to earn an average total compensation (includes tips, bonus, and overtime pay) of $45,479 based on 122 salaries. An early career Landscape Architect with 1-4 years of experience earns an average total compensation of $50,748 based on 819 salaries. A mid-career Landscape Architect with 5-9 years of experience earns an average total compensation of $61,149 based on 682 salaries. An experienced Landscape Architect with 10-19 years of experience earns an average total compensation of $69,153 based on 590 salaries. In their late career (20 years and higher), employees earn an average total compensation of $77,393.

Employees with Landscape Architect in their job title in San Francisco, California earn an average of 17.3% more than the national average. These job titles also find higher than average salaries in New York, New York (15.9% more) and Boston, Massachusetts (9.8% more). The lowest salaries can be found in Dallas, Texas (7.3% less).

This data is based on 2,455 survey responses.

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Landscape Architect Salary | PayScale

Privacy, safety, beauty, and convenience are some of the considerations to keep in mind when landscaping around swimming pools. The best plants to grow near a pool will be those that lend the area a special charm and that don't create a mess.

Plantscan provide beauty and -- in the case of shrubs -- privacy around a swimming pool. They soften the harsh lines of pool equipment and help pools to blend more naturally with the surrounding environment. If you grow plants that are tall enough, they will form privacy screens around the area. But plants must be chosen wisely. Strive for low-maintenance plants. For instance, you do not want large deciduous trees around a swimming pool, as you will end up fishing all ofthose leaves out of the water. Even needle-bearing evergreen trees can be among the messiest trees. A good alternative is a broadleaf evergreen bush such as Hetz Japaneseholly (a type that lacks prickly leaves). Avoid fruit trees: Not only are they messy, but the fruits also attract bees (and stinging bees are not a good match for all of that bare flesh that will be parading around your swimming pool). And as beautiful as flowers are, be aware that they, too, can be bee-magnets, so you are forced to make a decision (it is your call): Is it worth risking a bee sting to have lovely flowers around the pool? Even worse, plants with invasive root systems can damage a pool over the years, so choose the same kinds of plants that you would for planting around a septic tank (another structure susceptible to root damage).

Note that just because a plant appears on the list that follows, that does not mean that you can install it just anywhere near a pool. Most notably, a couple of plants with thorns are included on the list, simply because they are relatively mess-free. But avoid growing thorny plants in areas where you will be walking (for example, spots where you will be entering or exiting from the pool), so that you will not have to worry about getting jabbed by sharp thorns. Instead, grow them on a side of a large pool where human activity is kept at a minimum. They are not suitable for small pools (where space is at a premium).

Growing a mix of foliage plants and flowering plants is smart: That way, when the flowers peter out on one plant, there will still be a plant nearby with great foliage that offers visual interest. If not attracting bees is a priority for you in your pool landscape, then you may wish to stick with foliage plants exclusively. These plants may be good options but check to see whether or not they are cold-hardy enough to grow in your region:

Fencing around swimming pools is a must when small children are present, for the purpose of safety. The right fence design can also offer you privacy. If you do not like the look of a fence, soften it by training vines to grow over it; the vines will enhance privacy, to boot, on types of fences that do not offer a solid barrier. Another safety feature around pools is outdoor lighting.

Patios or pool decks provide not only beauty but safety for swimming pool areas. Climbing out of the water, you can be assured of a slip-resistant surface to land on with a scarred concrete patio. If you opt for a brick patio instead, be sure to keep the surface of the bricks rough (you will have to clean moss off the bricks periodically). For convenience around swimming pools, nothing beats a closed gazebo in which you can change into or out of your clothes and relax in the shade. Outdoor furniture also affords convenience around your swimming pool, as do barbecue equipment and outdoor furnaces. A full outdoor kitchen may also be in your sights if you have a large enough budget.

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Landscaping Around Swimming Pools - The Spruce

A private pool is not only a key part of the beautiful life we are used to seeing in movies, but also an opportunity to swim every day in crystal clear water, have fun with the kids, and, of course, to fully relax and improve your health. Fortunately, nowadays there are pools of many different types. Everyone can find something to suit their needs, in terms of both cost and the characteristics of the pool.

Currently, designing the area adjacent to a swimming pool is not very difficult, and it is something that can be afforded by even people with average incomes.To make your pool perfectly unique, it is a good idea to think about pool landscape design.

Also read about design ideas forsmall backyard pools

Thats how the site for a typical swimming pool looks prior to its construction. There is no sign of the landscaping around the pool, as this will be accomplished later.

Before you plan and calculate the costs, you need to determine several parameters and the purpose for which the pool will be used. If for swimming, its size must be at least 20 feet in length. If this is the font after taking bath treatment, the shape and size can be much smaller. Also the design of a sauna with a swimming pool may include a Spa with Jacuzzi, or additional features for relaxation.

You should also consider the type of pool, outdoor or indoor, and how you will plan the land in terms of constructions. How will the pool design fit the shape of the area and the whole house concept in general? Will it be a light or inflatable option or capital construction for many decades inside your house? As you can see, there are a lot issues before determining the design of pool and its finishing.

Even if you have clearly identified what pool you need and where it will be, the construction of the facility will bring about a lot of additional questions. The easiest way is to contact a specialized firm where they will consider all projects, provide assistance on pool landscaping and the features to be included in the area around the pool and garden, and calculate the total cost of components.

Find outhow to build a natural pool DIY

Different materials are used for the construction of the base bowl. Build clay brick walls with a thickness of 10 or construct formwork and pour in concrete around the rebar. Such a pool would be considered as being built from reinforced concrete. For the first two options a project would be required as well as the availability of adjacent space for the installation of pumping stations, equipment for water filtration and purification, sanitary fittings, and water heating elements.

There are demountable pools with the inclusion of plastic or metal parts. The best option for those on a limited budget is a polypropylene leak-proof design that does not require any additional installation of waterproofing. The construction of an indoor home pool should allow for the possibility of drainage. The obvious advantage of an indoor pool is that it can be used throughout the entire calendar year.

The water system can operate by means of a trough for water runoff when the pool is overflowing and a skimmer for when the water level is below the edge of the pool by 4, whereby water is removed through openings in the side walls. There are a lot of pool landscaping ideas based on this principle.

The construction stages of an outdoor pool are:

Every specialist in this field will say that exterior lighting is based on several different principles, and often has a different purpose to interior illumination. The basis of this concerns the position of people in relation to the landscape. Also of importance are, of course, the general rules of decor and the ability to find stylistic architectural solutions.

These are significant moments, since the design of lamps, the lighting line, colors and accenting ultimately depends on them. Historically, the design mainly relied on two different approaches. Fans of the classics adhere to the model based on a floodlight, this being an easy way to show the natural beauty of the water. The second method is a festival of experimental art. Nothing is forbidden, and the more unusual the look of the content, the better. For this approach, it is common for the water to have a red or yellow color, and the contour of the bowl, lit from inside, as if floating in zero gravity And the whole composition can be supplemented by music. The use of lighting in a pool landscape introduces something very special to your pool.

If you are choosing which lamps to position underwater, you should consider some nuances, first the brightness, and second that the power does not exceed 12 watts. Suitable for this purpose are LED and halogen lamps. An additional advantage is their durability, but on the other hand, they are fairly expensive.

At night the pool can be made additionally romantic or just given a beautiful design by using floating lamps. The design contains a built-in battery that requires periodic recharging. A positive factor is the absence of wires. They are most often used in ornamental ponds.

When the wind blows floating lights begin to move. If this hinders you when swimming, they can be fixed to the bottom or weighted down. Constant recharging of an enormous number of lamps may lead to some difficulties. If the sight is sunny and exposed, floating solar cell lights can be used.

Today LED tape is used in many ways, on ceilings, windows and other places. The manufacturers have not stopped and have now developed a pool variant. The permissible depth is limited to 4 ft. Today, they come with well-designed casing and a flexible base made of silicone, soldered to the resistors and LEDs, which are coated with a special sealant. It provides excellent protection from water without any loss of quality lighting. Therefore, experts recommend LEDs for the illumination of swimming pools for an aesthetically pleasing design. LEDs can be monochrome and RGB or full color. It is a rather affordable way to make the landscaping around your pool unique after dark.

When buying lights, it is necessary to pay attention to the Index of Protection, otherwise known by the abbreviation IP. The value must be at least 68. The first digit signifies the level of protection against dust and the ability to withstand shock, while the second digit is the resistance to moisture.

All planned underwater lighting should have a high degree of protection from the water. This applies not only to lamps, but also to the wiring and connections. Otherwise injuries and shocks are virtually unavoidable. To illuminate 120 square feet, a 100W lamp is suitable. If the area is 200 square feet, use a 300W bulb.

Many owners surround their pool with green vegetation. In this case, to give a more vivid lighting effect, it is a good idea to make use of vegetation. The most common technique is to use a backlight at ground level together with other light sources built directly into the ground. The volume and beauty of the crowns of adjacent trees and shrubs may also be emphasized by placing string lights among the thick foliage. This technique has become especially popular over the past few years.

After all, ideas for swimming pool landscaping are limited only by your imagination.

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Backyard swimming pool landscaping ideas of design

How much does it cost to install zoned HVAC?

Considering Zoned Comfort Solutions from Mitsubishi Electric for your heating and air conditioning requirements? There are many benefits (comfort, efficiency and health) to zoned heating systems and air conditioning, but you may be curious about the cost of adding an HVAC zone to your existing system or the cost to install a multi-zoned HVAC system in your home.

Zone heating and cooling systems are comprised of an outdoor unit connected by refrigerant piping to one or more indoor units. Indoor units come in a variety of styles, and can be networked together to create multiple zones each controlled separately. A single outdoor unit can create one large zone, eight unique zones, and anything in between.

A zoned HVAC system can consist of ducted or ductless indoor units (or a hybrid of both), It can provide cooling only or efficient and comfortable cooling and heating, even at temperatures well below zero. You may choose a system to condition one room or your entire home. Consequently, Mitsubishi Electrics Zoned Comfort Solutions give homeowners maximum flexibility in designing a super-efficient system that can meet nearly any comfort need.

Scheduling a consultation with a local Diamond Contractor is the best way to get an accurate quote on a single, two zone, three zone and up HVAC system cost. In fact, to be eligible for Mitsubishi Electric's industry-leading 12 year warranty, your HVAC system must be installed by one of our more than 3,500 certified HVAC Diamond Contractors.

Because our Zoned Comfort Solutions are customizable based on your heating and cooling needs, and you have so many options to choose from, pricing can vary extensively. For instance, are you considering a two-zone ductless HVAC system cost, or the cost of a single-zone ducted system? Are you adding an HVAC zone to a home that already has one so you can further customize temperatures in individual spaces? Our certified Diamond Contractors can help advise on ducted vs. ductless systems, how many zones you may need based on how you use your home and your current HVAC system, and provide an estimated cost of installing/adding HVAC zones.

While there are seemingly countless options for your homes new HVAC system, it is possible to get a sense of how much HVAC zoning costs. Final costs will be determined by your contractors evaluation, but we can outline contributing factors and cost ranges to get you started. Your costs will vary and may be higher or lower than the estimates provided below.

A. New equipment.Each Zoned Comfort Solution includes an outdoor unit, indoor unit(s), controls and parts including the refrigerant line-set, wiring and electrical accessories. Conditioning one room or zone comes at a significantly different price than heating and cooling an entire home with eight or more zones. Generally, new HVAC zoning equipment can range in cost from under $3,000 for a one-room cooling option up to $15,000 or more for multiple zone heating and cooling systems.

B. Installation Labor.This is what you pay your HVAC contractor to install the system (and remove your old system, if necessary). Contractors' labor prices vary widely, but you can expect the cost to install zoned HVAC to be roughly the same as your equipment cost but may vary depending on your geographic location and the complexity of your installation.

C.Possibleadditional costs.

1. Electrical. You may need to hire a licensed electrician to install a new 240V outlet, which generally costs $200 to $1,000, but varies based on geographic location and the nature of the work being performed. The price will increase if your homes electrical panel requires a new 240V circuit. To avoid surprises, secure an estimate before purchasing a new system.

2. Equipment pad or stand. Creating an even surface underneath the outdoor unit for proper drainage generally costs $50 to $300. Alternatively, units can be mounted on brackets. Ask your contractor about the best solution for your new system

3. Ductless or ducted?When choosing ducted indoor units, it's difficult to generalize the cost. Some homeowners might be installing ductwork for the first time while others may be repurposing existing ductwork, which adds a level of complexity and potentially 75 percent to the labor cost. Its best to communicate directly with an HVAC professional who is familiar with your home for advice and estimates regarding ductwork.

4. There are many controller options from which to choose with Zoned Comfort Solutions. What you select will affect the cost. Wall-mounted air conditioning and heating units come standard with a handheld wireless controller; or you may choose our popular kumo cloud APP-based thermostat that allows you to program and control each zone from anywhere in the country from your smartphone, or our wireless wall-mounted thermostat that works just like other controllers in your home. For these options, factor in $200 to $300 per controller per zone.

D. Any additional equipment needed for unique situations. Some homes need a little extra something; this is often true for older homes, high-performance homes, and homes in cold weather regions where the ambient temperature regularly drops below minus 13 degrees Fahrenheit. These homes often require specialized designs and/or equipment, all of which impacts the cost of the HVAC system. Our Hyper-Heating INVERTER technology is developed to provide comfortable indoor temperatures in extreme cold-climate conditions (as low as minus 13 degrees Fahrenheit) while saving energy and money, so in many climates you will not need additional heating equipment.

Mitsubishi Electric's zone heating and cooling systems are flexible, efficient solutions that can be configured to your specific budget and comfort needs. Start by finding a qualified HVAC contractor in your area. Mitsubishi Electric Diamond Contractors are licensed HVAC contractors with specific training and experience installing Mitsubishi Electric products. HVAC systems designed and installed by a Diamond Contractor are also covered by our 12-year parts and compressor limited warranty.

When you meet with your contractor, discuss:

How many zones you need.

Where indoor and outdoor units might be placed.

Whether you need cooling only or heating and cooling.

If you're replacing or supplementing an existing system.

If you prefer ductless or ducted options (or a mix) and any special considerations for example if you're interested in a unit with an i-see Sensor that detects temperature variations and controls the airflow.

Your HVAC contractor will also let you know what to expect during the installation process.

Sounds pretty good, right? Soon youll have your estimated cost, and after that a future filled with personalized comfort and energy savings.

Click here to REQUEST A CONSULTATION from an HVAC Contractor in your area.

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HVAC Zoning System Cost: Install Zone Heating and Cooling

AC Installation CostAverage$5,476Typical Range$3,755 and $7,252Low End - High End$1,800 to $10,500Central Air Conditioner PricesOn average, expect to pay between $1,500 and $4,000 for a central air conditioner. However, the price varies greatly depending on your needs. And installation costs can make the price soar quickly. To get an accurate idea of what you'll spend, determine the size of the unit you'll need. Then, look at different brands. Various manufacturers produce cooling units, and there are pros and cons to each. So, consult with a professional about what you need and ask about additional features that may benefit your home. Here are some manufacturers and their average costs (in alphabetical order):

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The size of your home helps determine the type of air conditioning system you will need.

Window air conditioners cost less than central units, averaging $300. These systems generally suffice to keep a room cool on warm spring and summer days. They can bring added comfort for a reasonable price but are less powerful than a central air conditioner. If you have a bigger home with multiple rooms, you will probably need to have a larger system installed. Central air can cool several rooms at once, while window AC units usually only cover one or two rooms at a time.

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Cost of Central Air for a 1,200 Square Foot House

The cost to install central air in a 1,200 square foot home sits between $3,000 and $4,000. Of course, this price varies based on the SEER rating of the unit, and whether or not the home requires ductwork installation or repair.

The larger your house, the more cooling power you'll need. However, bigger isn't better in every scenario. If the system is too large it will cycle on and off all the time, wasting energy and emitting a loud, disruptive sound. On the other hand, if the system is too small, it will run constantly and cool your house inefficiently.

Cooling professionals use a variety of computations to analyze the characteristics of your home air conditioner and determine how much air it will lose. Factoring in environmental considerations like geography and solar rays, professionals can decide which system will best cool your home. Many refer to load calculating as the Manual J methodology.

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The manufacturer's warranty covers the equipment and parts in the machine. There is also the contractor's warranty, which covers the labor for AC repairs and additional work such as encasing the air conditioner in protective metal, wiring it to the home and so on.

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An air conditioning system's SEER is especially important if you live in a climate that changes temperature dramatically. The SEER is determined by the cooling output during the winter divided by its electric input during the winter. The higher the rating, the more efficient it will be. In January of 2006, the U.S. put standards in place for cooling units which are still in effect today. They must have a minimum SEER of 13. So, if you live in a home with a system installed before the new standards went into effect, consider having it replaced. SEER 13 units increase home efficiency by 30 percent.

An EER certifies the cooling efficiency of HVAC units. It's calculated by the rate of the cooling in British thermal units (Btus) per hour and divided by the rate of energy input in watts at a specific temperature. The calculation goes as BtuH/WATT at dry bulb (db) versus wet bulb (wb) temperatures. The optimal rating for a cooling unit is about 80db/67wb inside and 95db/75wb outside.

Depending on the project, it can take 1 to 5 or more days for a pro to install central air conditioning. AC replacements take more time, as do projects with extensive ductwork repairs or installations. This extra time can range anywhere from an additional day to another week!

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Excerpt from:
2019 Central Air Conditioner Costs | Cost to Install New ...

How much does it cost to install a fountain?

Installing a water fountain on your property can greatly add to its beauty, as well as value. You can install a water fountain as a stand-alone feature, or as a decorative addition to a pool or pond.

Several factors can influence the price you pay: size, materials,the type of fountain you choose, power needs,and labor. This guide looks at the average cost of installing afountain, which averages $1,080 for a medium concrete tier fountain with a pump.

The size of fountain you choose can have a big effect on your total price. The average fountain cost by size is listed below. Measurements are based on the widest points of the fountain body:

There are many fountain materials to choose from, and they each influence cost. Homeowners commonly choose materials that are durable enough to withstand outdoor exposure, and relatively inexpensive. These materials include resin & fiberglass1, as well as concrete. However, there are a wide range of other materials that have their own aesthetics.

For instance, marble and copper may be more expensive than most other materials, but they each have a unique appearance that can add great visual appeal. Below, weve listed the most common types of materials used for fountains, along with their average prices:

Shallow basin on a raised platform

that allows wild birds to bathe.

May not need pump3 depending

on design.

Simple spouts that open to basins,

or shallow square basins.

Typically hangs on the wall

and has an ornate design.

Multiple levels of basins that

spill into one another.

Disappearing

/ Pondless

No pools, the basin is filled with rocks

and water is immediately absorbed

for re-flow

Set on the ground against a wall,

usually has a pool

A framed sheet of glass upon which

the water flows

Store-bought fountains are usually far cheaper than their custom-made counterparts. But having your fountain custom built can allow you to make unique design choices, and create a fountain that is perfectly suited to your planned location. Custom pricing is highly variable, and depends on your choices of size, materials, style, and specific design elements. Count on paying at least $1,000+ for even small fountains that are custom-made.

A fountain needs a 110V outlet to hook up to; if you dont have one nearby you may need to install a new line. This can cost several hundred dollars. You will need at least one pump3 to run your fountain. They cost $60-$400.

Fountain & waterfall companies, pond builders, and some pool builders provide fountain installation services. Plumbing and electrical setup is typically included. This labor cost usually amounts to $40-$65 per hour. Fountain installation usually takes 1 full working day ($320-$520). Some landscaping companies that specialize in adding water features may be able to do the installation as well and they charge $45-$75 per hour ($360-$600).

You may be able to DIY your fountain installation. If you DIY, you may still need to hire a plumber to set up the pump3 and piping ($45-$65 per hour), and an electrician to connect the power supply ($65-$85 per hour).

If the land you want to put your fountain on is too high or uneven, you may need to have excavation or regrading work done. This can add costs. Excavation typically costs $225-$420 per cubic yard (100 sq. ft. of soil). The amount of excavation work you may need completely depends on the desired location of your fountain: its size, its terrain, and the surrounding land. Consider the largest basin diameter of your fountain when you determine the size of cleared space youll need for your fountain. Regrading costs anywhere from $0.047 to $2.28 per sq. ft.

Roman-style fountains are classical in design, usually featuring ornamental carvings and deep basins that the water flows into from small spouts. They can be either freestanding or wall fountains. Average prices are $400-$700+.

Solar fountains usually cost more than standard fountains, but they can save you a lot on energy costs. They also help you save money on electrical installation, which is very minimal compared to that needed for other fountains. Tier fountains and bird baths are the most common types to be pre-made solar ($250+). You can also outfit other fountains with solar panel & pump3 kits ($50-$250). A high-end solar fountain pump3 can provide power 24/7 ($100+).

Fountain bubblers are relatively small fountains that bubble up small amounts of water, rather than having basins and moderate flows. Their focus is usually less on the water and more on the fountain designs.They typically cost $400-$600.

Normally youd regularly refill your fountain garden hose, but you can also use an auto-fill device ($100). This will automatically keep your fountain full. This is useful if you have a hard time remembering to manually refill your fountain - having the water level get too low can damage the pump3. Youll need access to a nearby water line for an auto-fill installation. Expect installation to take at least 1 hour.

Heavy fountains and fountain materials may require extra laborers to handle the delivery. You should expect to pay at least 1 hours wage to each extra laborer needed for the transport and delivery of your fountain ($40-$75 per hour).

Wildlife are often attracted to the sound of flowing water. When your fountain is running, you may notice a greater number of insects and animals in your yard. The most common animals to see are birds and dragonflies.

Routine maintenance will keep your fountain running well. Change the water every month, and clean the fountain every 2-3 months. Cleaning involves scrubbing off algae from the basins, gently scrubbing the pump3, and adding algae-preventing chemicals to the water ($15 per bottle).

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Cost to Install a Fountain - Estimates and Prices at Fixr

The quiet trickle of a water fountain can add a sense of tranquility to your home. Whether used indoors or out, they offer visual interest as well as a soothing sound you can enjoy any time of day.

Choose Your StyleFind the right fountain to suit your space. Formal tiered fountains have a classic look, while Asian-inspired designs offer a Zen feel thats perfect for modern homes. Pottery-style options have an earthy, Mediterranean vibe. The natural look of stone fountains is fairly neutral but fits especially well in rustic spaces.

Upgrade an Outdoor OasisWeather-resistant outdoor options add tranquility to your porch, patio or garden. Some models come with a long power cord so its easy to plug in and enjoy. You could choose an energy-friendly solar water fountain to keep costs low. A submersible pump creates a flow that keeps your water fresh so insects dont breed. Who knows? This new retreat may also attract songbirds ready to bathe.

Enhance Your Indoor DecorA wall-hung waterfall fountain brings movement to a bland room without sacrificing floor space. Optional LED lights could cast an ambient glow from a shady corner or become the focal point of an entire room. Do you have space or budget limits? A tabletop water fountain is a wallet-friendly way to inspire calm.

For a special touch, let bright blossoms float in the water basin as a fun and fancy party prop. Watch this video to learn how to make your own terra cotta fountain from scratch.

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Fountains - Outdoor Decor - The Home Depot

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Central air conditioning techniques dispose of this condensation with pipes connected to your own home's sewage system. You should also make sure the electrical system is what you want, not what they want to sell you. As in an on-site house, the more electrical shops, the higher, and make sure you get a service higher than a hundred amps. Greater than a 3rd of manufactured homebuyers report plumbing problems, so that you wish to ensure you get excessive-quality fixtures, even when it costs a little bit extra. If you want extra data, you must test it out. Just as essential, be sure you take a look at the options of the home you buy. Check the place the heating and cooling outlets are and get those appropriate in your space.

All air conditioners (regardless of whether or not you take about a central system, a window unit, or a portable unit) take the new air out and substitute it with cool air. When folks consider home air conditioners, the very first thing that normally comes into their minds are central air conditioning units or window models. Just considering off hand of sure situations like 'empty nesters' that live in massive centrally air conditioned homes, it simply doesn't make financial sense to keep all of these unused rooms totally air conditioned throughout the summer time. The clubhouses and craft rooms resemble summer camps for those fifty five and older. Granted, the value of such a house is determined by whether or not you put it on your own land or in a "trailer park".

How is park model mobile dwelling dwelling a fun lifestyle? How about residing in a park mannequin cell house? Cheap dwelling in retirement can be each enjoyable and frugal. Have you ever considered lifestyles which can be cheaper but in addition fun? It may be loads of fun to be frugal. 150/month lot rental, embrace that in "what can I afford to pay each month". You are able to do it year round or be seasonal. Consumer Reports has an online brochure that may also help anybody contemplating buying a manufactured home on their web site. With housing prices being what they are, first-time homebuyers could not be able to afford a conventional residence of the identical quality that they'll get in a manufactured home. It isn't like you must exit and buy a steel storage shed or construct an extension on your property. It does not have to be like that in any respect.

In a case like this, a portable air conditioning unit would make perfect sense. Portable unit will include collapsible duct tubing (ala your clothes dryer) to channel the new air elsewhere, sometimes out of a window. Windows items will drip out the again end that's hanging outside of your window. Make it possible for the window and flooring choices are acceptable. Do not surrender on retirement until you discover all the choices. The current economic mess is causing all of us to rethink our plans for the longer term, especially those retired or serious about retirement. With portable models, there may be nowhere to dispose of the condensation, so that most common solution is that they come equipped with a container or tub the place the condensation is stored till you manually empty it. You want to contemplate the place you will most definitely be utilizing your unit and ensure you have got entry to an exhaust location and that the exhaust answer provided will work for you.

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If its been a while since your last air duct cleaning, youre probably tempted to make that call and get someone in your home to sanitize those ducts that promise to deliver cool air throughout your home this spring and summer.

But before you do, youve got to arm yourself with some knowledge to avoid falling prey to an air duct cleaning scam!

RELATED: Best and worst home insurance companies

We consulted an expert to learn about the warning signs and caveats you need to know

Heres a classic upsell from carpet cleaners: They get in your home to work on your carpets and then offer to clean your air ducts, too, for a rock-bottom price.

Dont take the bait!

This is maybe one of the biggest scams carpet cleaning companies that say they can clean your air ducts for $49.99, then they remove and vacuum your registers, stick their vacuums into the duct at the register, then re-attach your registers, Dave Baker of WSBs Home Fix-It Show tells Clark.com.

A thorough duct cleaning shouldnt be treated as add-on service to a carpet cleaning. Expect to pay several hundred dollars up to somewhere in the neighborhood of $500 and be ready for the job to take at least two to four hours to complete.

If you want to find reputable companies for duct cleaning, check with the industry organization National Air Duct Cleaners Association.

Baker recommends an immediate duct cleaning when you move into a newly built home.

Theres lots of construction debris. Saw dust, dry wall scraps [and even] Doritos bags can end up in the duct work of a newly built home, he says.

After that, Baker says a duct cleaning should be done every 7-10 years unless you have someone in the house with breathing problems.

If thats the case, then Baker advises a different route. You should get your HVAC provider out to your house to upgrade your furnace filtration situation. That is money better spent than on a yearly or every two year duct cleaning scam.

A quality duct cleaning isnt, in my opinion, complete without your HVAC system cleaned at the same time, Baker says.

But heres the thing: Duct cleaners arent legally allowed to touch your HVAC unless they have a current HVAC license.

The company must provide you with the license number upon request. If they cant or wont, thats not a good sign.

While were on the topic of HVACs and dust, most HVAC maintenance plans include regular changes of the furnace filter. But changing the filter between visits yourself usually every three months will help keep your system running at peak efficiency and cut down on dust.

Not sure how to change your HVAC furnace filter? The first thing to do is remove the existing filter from your furnace and make a note of the size that will be printed on the sides of the filter. It will be something like 14x25x1 or something similar. Remember to put the filter back when youre done.

Next, head to the store or look online for a replacement filter. You can get a good one for anywhere from $5 to $20 at a big-box store like Walmart or Target or at the home improvement stores such as Home Depot or Lowes. Your local supermarket may even carry filters in limited sizes, but the prices will often be higher here than at other places.

If youre noticing a lot of dust or other allergens in your home, it may well be worth it to pay the few extra bucks to get a filter with a higherMinimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating. MERV ratings are on a scale from 1 to 16 for most residential uses.

Once youve got your new filter, youre ready to take out the old one and put in the new one. Weve got a DIY video here to guide you through the simple process.

A quality duct cleaning company will and should clean your dryer vents too, Baker says. They are also ducts!

Heres how this one works: A company calls you and says that they will be in your neighborhood next week and can clean your ducts for $25 or some other outlandishly low price.

Baker isnt buying it. This has so many issues with it just on the surface you cant even get a pizza delivered to your house for $25 for one thing that it screams SCAM!

The home fix-it expert has received these calls himself and heres what he discovered after trying to set up an appointment:

I pressed the lady [on the phone] the last time [they called] and told her I was interested. I agreed to set up an appointment, [then] asked for a number to call and after much back and forth she gave me [a bogus] 555 number. We never did hook up.

Companies that put a mold test kit in your house and hope the test results will prove that you need your ducts cleaned are likely just scaring you.

If youre told you have a mold problem by a duct-cleaning company, Baker recommends buying your own test kit at a home improvement store to independently verify what theyre saying.

But there is an additional caveat here.

Every decent mold test kit will detect mold in every house every time because there is mold in the air everywhere, unless you live in a hospital. So you cant just go by the findings of a store-bought mold test to determine if your house has a serious mold problem, Baker notes.

Mold isnt the only reason to clean your duct work though. [Ducts] do get dirty over time and can lead to having more dust in your home. Dust is just a fact of life, as everything emits dust.

RELATED: Warning: Do not buy these 3 carbon monoxide alarms

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What you don't know about air duct cleaning can hurt you ...

It may be too cold for the playground, but there are plenty of spots in NJ where kids can climb and slide all winter long. From giant mazes to wall-to-wall trampolines, check out these great places for indoor play.

Fun Force

551 Main Ave., Wallington

973-777-0767; funforcenj.com

An afternoon spent racing around a roller rink, battling it out in laser tag and flying through the air in a bounce house is just what your restless brood needs. Theres also Gaga Ball, where players duke it out in an inflatable ring, plus plenty of arcade games. Fri: 411 pm,Sat: 111 pm, Sun: 17 pm.

The Big Playhouse

316 Kinderkamack Rd., Westwood

855-343-7529;thebigplayhouse.info

This out-of-the-ordinary, tech-free playground for kids six and under is all about make-believe. Kids can play chef at Caf Main, nurse animals back to health at Doctors at Main, and get their hands dirty at a pretend construction site. TuesSun: times vary.

Play Your Way

Mill Race Shopping Center

72 Hamburg Tpke., Riverdale

862-248-0410;playyourwaynj.com

This mega activity center and playground helps adventurers 16 years old improve their agility on the climbers, balance beam and in a sensory playhouse, while older kids can brave it out on a mini rock wall and an obstacle course. Tues: 11 am and WedSun: 9 am.

Elite Climbing

67 Old Kings Hwy., Maple Shade

856-273-1370; eliteclimbing.com

Your mini adrenaline junkie can spend the day zooming down the zipline, scaling up rock walls and running in races at this top-notch climbing center. No previous experience is required, so its a great intro to the sport. MonFri: 4 pm and SatSun: 12 pm.

Fun Time Junction

400 Fairfield Rd., Fairfield

973-882-9777;funtimejunction.net

Perfect for preschoolers, kids can climb around a huge jungle gym, get messy in a craft corner and take a spin on a ton of ride-on character vehicles. Theres also laser tag and plenty of carnival games for those a little older. TuesSun until 6 pm.

Pole Position Raceway

99 Caven Point Rd., Jersey City

201-333-7223;polepositionraceway.com

If your kid has a need for speed, hell love mastering the art of racing in the super popular Arrive & Drive program, where kids show up alone or in small groups and get to compete ingo-kart races that teach control, speed and endurance. There are also Junior Races for littles 4858"that teach new speedsters how to drive safely around the arena. Open MonThursat 1210 pm, Friday 12 pmmidnight, Saturday10 ammidnight and Sunday 10 am10 pm.

Wild At Play

125 River Dr., Jersey City

201-333-4244; wildatplay.com

This 2,300-square-foot jungle gym actually changes with the seasons. Its a tropical island in the summer and Olafs winter wonderland in the winter, so kids (ages 3 months12 years old) wont ever get tired of the action. Our favorite part? The STEM-focused play area, where kids can take a break from the mayhem and squeeze in some outside-the-classroom learning with educational toys, books and real, live animals. MonFri: 10 am1 pm, 36 pm,Sat: 9 am12 pm.

Jungle Gym'n Bounce

12 Minneakoning Road 104B, Flemington

908-236-7555; junglegymbounce.com

Kids big and little take their pick between dozens of gigantic inflatables (yes, that means slides, bounce houses and obstacle courses!) before sneaking in a round of laser tag or bazooka ball. FYI: There's open bounce sessions every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, so it's a great way to keep your squad entertained on a rainy day.

The Jumping Jungle

10 Alvin Ct., East Brunswick

732-613-5867;jumpingjungle.com

Kids 2 and up can climb and slide on eight inflatables, play laser tag, go head-to-head in the arcade and see if they can survive the storm simulator. And no sitting on the sidelines for Mom and Dad! Adults get in on the action in the kids vs. adults laser tag games. Times and days vary.

Fun Time America

269 State Hwy. 35 N., Eatontown

732-460-0700;funtimeamerica.com

Have they gotten too old for baby rides? The newest attraction here, Grand Theft Laser Blast, puts a big kid spin on ordinary laser tag with bubble machines and special effects. Theres also the Viper Simulator, a virtual reality ride that sends passengers into 360-degree barrel rolls and a 22-foot-high rock climbing wall for kids 10 and up.MonFri: 12 pm and SatSun: 10 am.

iPlay America

110 Schanck Rd., Freehold

732-577-8200; iplayamerica.com

This gigantic space features a go-kart raceway (kids 10 and up can drive by themselves), a 6,500-square-foot outer-space-themed laser tag arena and a slew of classic boardwalk games. Who can say no to a few rounds of balloon darts and Whack-A-Mole? Dont miss iPlay After Dark on Friday nights from 7 pmmidnight, where teens get full access to unlimited rides, go-karts and laser tag, plus live music and a light show. MonFri: times vary.

House of Bounce

5100 Belmar Blvd., Wall

732-919-0999;houseofbounce.com

Looking to burn up some energy on an extra yucky winter afternoon? This 10,000-square-foot spot is packed with huge inflatables, climbers, and obstacle courses, and even has a gym where she can shoot hoops. MonSun: timesvary.

JerZJump

51 Stout Ln.,Monmouth Junction

732-438-5867; jerzjump.com

We love the just-for-toddlers room here where jumpers 3 and under can play without getting knocked around by the big kids. Theres also a 15-foot-tall jungle gym, a handful of gigantic slides and huge bounce houses for the older set.FriSun: 12 pm.

Junglerrific

600 Rike Dr., Millstone Twp.

732-577-1118;junglerrrificpartygym.com

Little climbers ages 28 can fly through the air on the trampolines, tumble on squishy inflatables and scale the highest heights on the indoor jungle gym. Big kids wont want to miss the zipline, which ends with a free fall into a giant foam sponge pit. MonFri: times vary.

The Funplex

182 Rte. 10 W., East Hanover

973-428-1166;funplexeasthanover.com

Kids take their pick from bumper cars, go-karts, laser tag and a 4-D motion theater in this 100,000-foot, everything-under-the-sun facility. Theres also MagicQuest (a gigantic, scavenger hunt game) and Wiggles and Giggles, a separate area perfect for toddlers.MonFri: 12 pm and SatSun: 10 am.

Bounce About

1 South Main St., Toms River

732-608-7108; bounceaboutlasertag.com

This brand new, underwater-themedspace is equipped with a two-story laser tag arena, basketball and volleyball courts, an indoor playground and inflatable slides for the younger set. Infants get to check outLou's Little Joey's, a soft play area for babies with an interactive discovery wall, merry go round and tug boat.

Kidnetic

2 Changebridge Rd., Montville

973-331-9001; kidneticnj.com

The three-level play structure is the biggest attraction at this fun zone designed specifically for 1-7-year-olds. Theres also a smaller toddler playground just for little hands, a ball pit and an area covered in mats of all colors and sizes. Big kids can test their skills on the rock wall and the zipline. MonFri: 9:30 am5:30 pm, Sun: 9 am11:30 am.

Billy Beez USA

Palisades Center

West Nyack

845-915-4709; billybeez.com

Get lost in Billys Rainforest, a 26,000-square-foot space that boasts dozens of safari-themed slides, bouncy trampolines and obstacle courses. Theres also a pint-sized sports court with basketball hoops, soccer nets and a Rainbow Wave Slide for races. Times vary.

Bounce! Trampoline Sports

612 Corporate Way,Valley Cottage

845-268-4000;bouncevalleycottage.com

Kids pick from two different dodgeball courts here (separated by age), practice their slam dunk on the basketball court or launch themselves into the sky on one of the trampolines. Plus, the big-kid-free Bounce Jr. Zone for the 5-and-under crowd, its own trampoline court, a foam pit and mini bounce castle. Days and times vary.

Laser Zone

Bridgewater Sports Arena

1425 Frontier Rd., Bridgewater

732-627-0006; bsaarena.com

Tons of fog and blacklight madness take modern-day capture-the-flag over the top. Adventurers five and up can play real-life Ghostbusters by hiding in the mazes nooks and crannies. Times vary.

Branchburg Sports Complex

47 Readington Rd., Branchburg

908-203-1600;branchburgsportscomplex.com

Bigger is betterespecially when it comes to play spaces. And this complex is hugeevery day, kids ages 312 explore the 82 different features (bridges, slides and tunnels) in the spots multi-level PlayMaze. And while the kids are having the time of their lives, parents can keep a watchful eye from the enclosed viewing section. Dont forget to bring the older crowdtheyll love the three indoor turf fields, four batting cages and 9,000-square-foot fantasy-themed laser tag arena. WedSun: times vary.

Laser One

Wantage Plaza Shopping Center

205 Rte. 23, Wantage

973-702-0500; laser1.us

Take his game of hide-and-seek up a notch in this 6,000-square-foot space with fog and crazy light displays. Players pick from themes like Infection, where one person starts out as patient zero and works to contaminate all of the others. Take a break between rounds with Highway 66 Bowling (a small version of the real thing), putt nine holes of mini-golf or compete in tons of arcade games (kids four and up). Mon, Thurs, Fri: 3:30 pm, SatSun: 11 am.

Kidz Village

131 South 31st St., Kenilworth

908-445-7220

The rest is here:
Best Indoor Play Places in New Jersey - NJ Family