How to maintain outdoor furniture

Use of fabric like cushions should be to the minimum as these get faded when exposed even to indirect sunlight and humidity ruins them because of fungus formation Paint chip offs in wrought iron are common. One can clean it and apply a fresh coat of paint once every year to retain the life of the furniture As far as possible use stone artifacts and decor items.

Avoid using wood, papier mache or any copper items as these react with the atmosphere Treat your iron content furniture with anti-rust once just before the monsoon sets in. This will also prevent it from decolourisation Furniture in the garden needs special protection. Scrap off the moss as soon as it is formed to avoid damage Wipe wet surfaces with a dry cloth, carefully protecting the paint Moulded furniture can be easily washed with soap and dried naturally. However, take care not to place heavy weights on them as they may lose their alignment and will eventually break

Take cate of outdoor space, furniture in monsoon

The monsoon is here and most of us tend to spend weekends and holidays staying indoors. It is also the time when most of the outdoor furniture like chairs and tables are stocked away till the weather is again suitable for their use. But it can be a great idea to enjoy the gentle trickling of raindrops while you have your morning coffee. There can be typical areas in the house that can be identified to add that special touch, be it a family gathering at the end of a hectic day or a solitary corner for a single working professional. It could even be an intimate corner for a couple to relish their daily sip of coffee. Sitting indoors, in the comfort of your living room, with a view of the outside, can be a very pleasurable experience, especially when it rains. Or it could be the balcony, terrace, verandah, porch, or garden. Creating spaces
If you have a big verandah of approximately 10x10 feet, there are many ways to use it for creating a special place. A perpendicular wall can be used to keep a bookshelf or a magazine stand, however take care so that the raindrops do not reach it directly or indirectly. A corner can sport a cozy armchair or a rocking chair. Small balconies in apartments can accommodate a few stools to enjoy the view outside. You can provide the terrace or the garden with a temporary overhead shed so as to place a center table with four or six chairs to create a garden restaurant-like effect. This can also be an interesting area to entertain guests. A colourful canopy umbrella overhead with good quality waterproof fabric will complete the pretty picture.
Material
The best material used for outdoor furniture is wrought iron. There are so many different designs and styles available in the market. Choose one to match your environment, that is, if you wish to keep wrought iron chairs and tables in a garden with lots of greenery around use white painted ones and supplement them with a nice fountain and a few stone statues.
If however the area is the verandah or the terrace with not much greenery around you can use black colour or get them painted in cheerful colours like orange, blue, yellow or lavender to generate an inviting atmosphere. You can even add a swing to bring splendour to the place.
In the balcony where the width is a maximum of six feet one can use moulded chairs and tables. These are very light in weight and can be conveniently maneuvered. Invest in good quality ones so that they do not get easily damaged.

Hammock or Porch Swings: Have a Hammock indoor room with a view,

Hammock or porch swings are ideal to relax in. If you live in an independent house with a large garden, there is nothing like it. You can hang it firmly from a strong tree branch, stretch yourself on it and bask in nature. With a hammock you can even relax in comfort inside your four walls. All you have to do is find the most comfortable and suitable spot where you can actually fix your hammock.

If you have a large porch or a veranda, maybe this is the first option that you must consider. Drill in hooks into ceiling beams so that they can securely hold your body weight.

This is the most important step in fixing a hammock. Now hang the hammock or use connecting ropes incase the distance is larger between the two hooks. Your body weight must be evenly supported in the most comfortable way. The entire experience of sleeping in a hammock must be relaxing and not cautious and frightening.

A hammock may be out of place in your study, living room or your bedroom. But if you have a room that faces the swimming pool or garden area, a hammock may blend in here. The room should be sparsely furnished and must be in harmony with nature. Arrange wild flowers on antique side tables to lend this room a rustic look.

Clear all clutter. The room must not be messy, but should rejuvenate you the moment you step in. Add to the rustic look with a couple of candles and a pile of books. Nothing should look strikingly distracting in the room, like a pile of old newspapers tucked away in a corner stand.

If the windows are large transparent glass ones, from which you can smell nature, hear chirping birds and see lush greenery, then fix your hammock here.

Tiles: Interesting facts about tiles

Ensure that any tile you choose is specifically designed for the outdoors. This is important as they are subject to weather changes and severe conditions Ensure that the tiles you choose are slip-resistant Tiles, like slate or terracotta, can be washed with a mild detergent to maintain their appearance Quarry tiles require minimum amount of maintenance but if they are used in a commercial space then they may require a polish In case of any spills, clean immediately with a cleaning solution mixed with hot water. This will prevent stains

Tiles for your porch, numerous options

First impressions are most important. And this is true whether it's of people or of homes. When people walk into your home, the first thing they see is the entrance to your home or the porch area. While we pay a lot of attention to landscaping and doing up the garden, the front porch may sometimes be overlooked. Instead of leaving it plain, why not let it make a statement about yourself and your home?

Options in tiles

One way that you can do up the front porch is by adding attractive tiles to create a warm and welcoming effect. There are different types of tiles you can choose from for the porch area but just be discerning while choosing the type of tile. You will find a host of floor tiles like hard, soft, warm, etc, in numerous sizes and patterns but there are only some that are suitable for the garden and external areas.

Pavers, for instance, are stone, concrete or brick materials/slabs that are used in the construction of patios, sidewalks and driveways. Concrete pavers come with a wide range of finishes, including textured and smooth, while clay pavers come in a limited range of colours. Clay ages well and wears well too. Cobblestone gives a very elegant finish. But for that rustic look, choose crushed stone or gravel, which is also less expensive.

You can even go in for sandstone, terracotta or slate tiles for your porch. Predominantly found in the shape of squares and rectangles, terracotta, which means 'cooked earth', can be used for a variety of purposes, including exterior paving. These tiles are very absorbent.

Typically found in shades of grey, slate is quite durable, while quarry tiles are also suitable for exterior surfaces and the added advantage is that they are grease and waterresistant. Brick tiles have similar features too and are ideal for linking internal and external areas. Though ceramic tiles offer design versatility, durability, water and fire resistance, they may not always be apt as external flooring. Always go in for slip-resistant tiles for outdoor surfaces.

Nowadays, many of these pavers and tiles come in a set pattern so they can easily be laid out to form attractive flooring with a design and sometime even a border.
Using a porch

In our tropical weather, a porch can be put to good use throughout the year. Dining outdoors is one of the pleasures of warm weather where the porch can be made an extension of one's home. Think of your porch as an indoor space and choose furniture and floor coverings accordingly. If your porch is enclosed it's all the more better as you can even enjoy open spaces during the rain. Trees around the porch provide plenty of shade. They make the area cozy and give you privacy. So set up some nice wicker or cane chairs and a table, and add aesthetic lights to convert the area from a mere outdoor space to a multi-purpose relaxation space.

What is good office or home furniture?

1. Comfort for the employees, adjustable and ergonomically designed to prevent injury

2. Safety for the users is necessary. Excessively sharp and rough edges, and upholstery being grainy and uncomfortable may be avoided

3. Aesthetics imply the shape and form of the desks and chairs need to be harmonious in design. It is also important to see if the furniture blends well with the colour scheme of the walls, carpeting and any other decor objects

4. You need not sacrifice comfort for beauty; a good design ought to give you both

5. Economy of material too determines 'good' furniture

How to choose office furniture

Your office furniture selection depends on your budget, volume of people visiting and working, floor plan and utility. What kind of furniture is most appropriate for your needs? How can you choose chairs, desks, work stations for maximum benefit? One key idea is: focus on gaining productivity, enhancing your firm's image and good utility within a budget.

Bear in mind ergonomic designs in not only the appearance but the height of the chair, adjustability, height of the desk, storage space, and material of the furniture. Many chairs are 'copies' of ergonomic designs but are so only in appearance and lack the sturdiness and design elements of original ergonomics. You need to ensure you have the right product.
Reception areas

How much seating you provide for your reception depends upon the size of the space and number of your office visitors. If you have an office of say 30-35 people and 12 visitors daily, take an optimum number of say 10 seats with an attractive layout for your reception desk. You can then select appropriate furniture. But what makes it 'appropriate?'

There is no perfect design but a workable and aesthetic one. Seating of wood or aluminium frames with upholstery is an option. Another trick is not to create a reception area which is 'too comfortable' or people will linger too long. Cushioning which is 'too soft' may be avoided. Moderate upholstery avoiding floral patterns is best.

You can design the seating for over three people or even five in one unit incorporating into it a magazine rack and a side table.

Your choice of a reception design concept can be from millions of ideas. For a cool and professional look, use marble, metal and colours such as grey, bright blue and white. If you wish to be trendy, you can provide extruded furniture for seating guests and a neatly bright reception desk with well chosen abstract paintings and suspended ceilings. And focused lighting without dark corners.
Workstations

Your workstation design will lead to happy employees who are comfortable and you may choose either wood or metal frame furniture with storage and filing cabinets. You can design four desks two facing the other two into one module or a whole row of workstations against the wall. The deciding factor is the floor plan and placement for maximising natural light from windows, if any.

Ergonomic furniture is ideal. These are expensive and many 'copies' of these are available which look the same but lack the design curves and adjustments for a firm back support. Such 'copies' may be avoided as they lack quality. Strong chairs with adjustable heights and keyboards which can be manipulated for height are best.

The colours of the furniture should not be loud. Mild hues of blue, brown or black are interesting. If you are making a fashion statement, use purple or violet.

Furniture will need regular cleaning and maintenance, and you should keep it in mind while opting for light colours.

Make your furniture last and retain beauty from an interior designing perspective

Furniture forms an integral part of the decor scheme of your home, but you need to maintain it and take good care of it. Since the rains have just made an entry into the city, this is the best time to get your furniture revamped. To begin with, the widely used wood furniture needs to be nurtured at the least, be it any season. Regular melamine polishing is the solution to the problems faced by wood furniture. It acts as a waterresistant tool during rains.

Humidity too does not fall harsh on wood furniture if it is polished with melamine. One must be careful, if the furniture has a French polish coat. Humidity as well as the rains will spoil it in extreme conditions. Wood and leather furnishings are prone to insects and need to be taken care of.

Talking about stainless steel, one must not worry at all as it is maintenance-free. But a few words of caution; while making or buying steel furniture - make sure that the steel is of 304 grade and not below it. Stainless steel below 304-quality grade is bound to get a rusty look in a few months of purchase. Regular cleaning can keep the dust and rust away.

Those who are fond of wrought iron and brass furniture must treat it with red oxide for a longer life. The joints of tables and chairs need to be painted with red oxide to avoid corrosion.

Artistic cane furniture, which gives a casual and cosy look to the living room and garden, is not to be exposed to rains. Once water catches hold of it, it turns black in colour and develops a fungus. Melamine finishing will keep it protected in other seasons.

A little care and effort towards your furniture will definitely help it last for years together.

Flowers for cheer: art of flower arrangements at home

The association of creative ideas and nature can be expressed through flower arrangements. Nature can be used as an art form to beautify the interior of homes. The riot of colour that a bouquet presents is a visual treat while the all-pervading aroma delights the senses.

Aesthetic appeal

Floral designs can be used to tie the elements of a room into a cohesive unit. The colour, texture and appeal create a harmony with the surrounding decor. The flowers must be chosen to complement the decor and the dominant architectural theme. The common types of arrangements are what dictate the form which may be round, triangular, free form, or shaped like an L or S. Proportion and balance are very important and a general rule is followed of the height of the flowers being one and half times the height of the container.

The arrangement itself consists of the dominant element or main flower, secondary element or smaller flowers, fillers, special elements like vines that can add texture and finally the accent element like a figurine that draws focus to the piece. The flower decor can be classified as centre piece, linear, round, a bouquet, decorative, free, classical, modern or formal.

Placement

Flowers in foyers or entrance lobbies and verandahs welcome the viewer with eye-catching effects. The console table can have a fan shaped creation or a tall vase for effect. An artfully arranged basket is an arresting addition at the entrance. Care should be taken to make tall pieces stable so that they do not topple
with the weight of the flowers. An ethnic touch can be achieved by floating fresh flowers and leaves in an 'urli' in the centre of a portico. If the verandah is partially open, hanging baskets on the periphery can be festooned with fresh flowers and creepers that create the impression of bringing the garden indoors. Living and dining rooms are ideal for brightening up with vivid colours and scents of nature. Living rooms have many surfaces, nooks and corners to place fresh flowers. Centre tables, side tables, corner stands and wall shelves are ideal. In the dining area roses can make a resplendent centre piece for the table. Boat shaped containers also suit a rectangular table as they are linear and have a low profile and do not hinder the placement of crockery and cutlery. Roses, gladioli, lilies, tulips, orchids and chrysanthemums are some popular choices. Delicate varieties and pastel shades also create a relaxed ambience while adding a sophisticated touch to the interiors.

Ikebana
Japanese flower arrangements is a very popular art form. It is a discipline where nature and humanity co-exist in proximity. Leaves, branches, grasses, and blossoms are used to create masterpieces where even creative expression is governed by rules of construction. Every aspect has a meaning such as a flower depicting nature and bamboo epitomising integrity. Fascinating forms result from the colour, shape, lines, and meaningful use of the blossoms. Ikebana uses the rhythm and order of nature, and links indoors and outdoors. It is different from regular flower arrangements due to its asymmetrical form and use of space as an essential component of the composition.

Accessories
A good flower arrangement requires a suitable container, fresh flowers and proper setting. The size of the container should be suitable for the space where it is placed and the materials must be cut in proportion to the size of the container. These holders can be shallow, tall or large and made from bamboo, ceramic, stone, brass, glass, wood etc. Arrangements require proper equipment like sponges, fresh water, steel craft wire, wire cutters, knives and shears, clips, tapes and picks. Baskets are available in metal and bamboo and are ideal for anchoring long stems. Bowls work best for placements on round tables. Glass and ceramic vases are valued for their beauty and ease of handling. Metal containers like brass and pewter can enhance a simple or formal setting. Novelty containers can be made from plaster moulds but are heavy. Their advantage is that they offer varied options in shapes and sizes that adds charm and interest. Terracotta can be used in its natural form or embellished with paints and beads. Trays and boxes are utilised when the height of the arrangement has to be low. Urns give height to the flowers and are impressive add-ons. Finally, foams, sponges and wire frames are widely used as they can be cut and shaped to requirement.

How to keep flowers fresh...

Flowers must be cut early in the morning and stored in warm water

They must be stored at room temperature before arranging

Sharp knife must be used to cut stems at an angle under running water

Stems must be kept clear of foliage and debris so that they can draw up water

Rotting leaves in the water contaminate it and must be cleared

Containers must be placed in a cool spot away from direct sunlight that dries out and wilts the blooms

Water must be changed every other day

Flower stems submerged in a solution of liquid glycerine last long

Sugar cubes may be added to the water to keep flowers fresh

Jade Goody wedding picture, photo, video

Jade Goody in this beautiful wedding picture is seen with her fiancé Jack Tweed and her two young sons Bobby and Freddy.

Before the wedding ceremony began, a plane flew overhead trailing a "Jade loves Jack" banner.

The groom after being shot by paparazzi hiding his face in embarrassment


Jack Tweed (left) and the groom's party leaving for the wedding dressed in women's underwear.


Jade Goody arrived at the wedding venue by helicopter on Saturday night. Though she was feeling exhausted after a tiring proportions for the wedding, the journalists were told she was feeling good "after a decent night's sleep".

The lavish wedding ceremony was being held in the Down Hall country house hotel in Essex. Jade Goody was not feeling well due to the hectic preparations.



Jade Goody who has been undergoing chemotherapy arrive at her house from hospital along with bridesmaids wearing flesh-coloured bathing caps in a show of solidarity with the cancer patient and bride.


Former Big Brother housemate and reality star Jade Goody got married after being told by doctors that she only has few days to live. Here, in this picture, Jade Goody kissing her finance Jack Tweed, a day ahead of the wedding

Staircases: How to make the most of staircases

With some imagination you can use the space around stairs effectively


Efficiency of space is of great importance in today's homes. There are various issues that add to the efficiency of a space. Staircases are one of the space-consuming elements in a design that can be planned to enhance the functionality of a home.

Planning

A staircase design should be planned to offer simple and convenient access. It should be located in a point which is easy to approach from both the lower and upper levels. When creating access to an upper level of a bungalow, try to accommodate the stair in a position where it will not extend into the prime liveable area. For instance, when planning, ensure that you use the areas that offer good views for living spaces and position the staircases along the lesser important area. It is also important to consider how the stair will be used and where they will be located. A broad, low stairs is apt for a welcoming, generous presence. They usually lead to a main room, such as the family room or living room. Wide steps also provide a display area for oversized vases, potted plants, or small statues. Narrow, steep steps usually lead to more private spaces like bedrooms and study areas. Stairs positioned at the rear of a house are generally for family use. Stairs at the back of a home are likely to be less of a centrepiece. They are in general, less formal and detailed than stairs near the entry.

Shape

The key determining factor in deciding the shape of the stair is the extent of available space. A straight stair extends from lower to upper levels in one straight run. Although this is the easiest type of stair to build, it can be difficult to squeeze into a floor plan. Stairs with an L-shape or U-shape stairs are safer and easier to climb; they're often preferred where space allows it. The turning stairs has several variations which are based on the amount of turning that is done during the climb. The four standard types of turning stairs are: quarter-turn, half-turn, three-quarter turn, and one-turn stairs. A spiral stair twists around a center pole in one of two ways. The common spiral stair has a straight center pole with steps radiating out from it; a helix-style spiral has a curving center support that follows the sweeping twist of the stair. Circular stairs take the least space but are also the hardest to climb.

Maximising space

The area beneath the staircase is quite valuable when space is at a premium. There are infinite ideas on how to make the most of this otherwise lost space. We could all use some extra storage space and the space under the stairs could be ideal for a variety of storage needs. Bookcases under the staircase are a good way to use space that would otherwise be wasted. If your stairs is in the front hallway, where unsurprisingly many of the staircase areas are, it could function as a shoe rack. If it's in the bedroom, it could be a cabinet or wardrobe. It could also serve as an efficient toy storage area for your children. For a toy storage area, find baskets, plastic tubs or bins of different sizes and then design shelving of different heights and widths to accommodate them. Ensure that these storage spaces are both attractive and easy to access. It can be simply shelved out and left open, or covered as a complete cupboard.

Besides, you can also consider creating a niche activity space under the stairs. If your stairs faces the living room it could be a music centre or a bar. It can be a small home office, or a small hobby or craft room. If your staircase is located close to the utility areas it could serve as a convenient location for a small laundry room.

A creative use of colour, mirror and light can create the illusion of spaciousness in these imaginative alcoves.

Fuel cell technology for buildings

Using hydrogen to power a building is possible


You would have heard of hydrogen fuel cells powered cars or hybrid cars that give incredible efficiency. Hydrogen fuel is a mixture of petrol and fuel cells. Owners are extremely happy with its efficiency, and virtually negligible noise and smoke pollution.

Fuel cell technology is a reality in many countries with fuel cells generating electricity for homes, remote schools, IT infrastructure, and even military installations. These power plants generate power just like the regular power plants in several parts of the world. Governments are supporting research organisations to come up with alternate energy programmes and reduce dependency on oil and conventional fossil fuel. Iceland is converting all their fishing boats and trawlers to fuel cells. It is converting the existing diesel and replacing the conventional fossil fuel completely in the country.

This technology revolutionises power generation. As an alternate source of energy it is available in India. We, however, need to take responsibility for a greener environment. Depletion of oil resources have already driven governments of developed countries to invest in this technology and several of them have borne fruit. It has been commercialised to the maximum extent possible.

Fuel cells generate electricity from an electrochemical reaction in which oxygen (air) and fuel (hydrogen) combine to form water and the resultant heat. They are of many types but all are based on a central design. The electricity produced can power cars and buses to apartment blocks and large campuses.

Advanced fuel cells are stationary units with little or no moving parts producing heat and electricity. They are very efficient and have low emissions, thus favoured by the army. They are ideal for remote areas with unreliable electricity supply. There is huge potential for residential applications. These units could power houses or groups of houses for base loads or pre-determined loads. Natural gas can provide the source of hydrogen fuel. Other sources include solar, wind, and hydro power.

This technology has not gained grounds due to the fact that it was developed by people with significant scientific curiosity but no business skills. However, in the past years, this has changed with aggressive customerdriven companies trying to address this deficiency. In the automobile sector, due to higher legislation of emission standards like in California, manufacturers are to mandatorily supply a fixed percentage of zero emission vehicles. Toyota's Prius can travel between Sydney and Melbourne with less than just a tank-full of petrol whereas the rest is powered by its fuel cells. Similarly, Honda and Daimler Chrysler, among others, are also powering their cars with fuel cells.

Small and large fuel cells can produce heat and electricity. Homes and businesses can save on costs as their requirements from other sources decrease. Organisations dedicated to research and commercialisation can mainly be found in the US, Europe and Japan. Organisations in India, Korea and China are becoming a force to be reckoned with in the near future but many here are not aware of this technology. Fuel cell technology is a very vast subject. Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) has gained a lot of ground. It helps in adaptation of fuel cells in mass transportation. Some of the US-based large manufacturers are specialising in stationary power generation units while others are manufacturing power plants. The same technology is being used in batteries and laptops. Fuel cells have double the efficiency when converting fuel to power as compared to the conventional internal combustion engine.

Ground Water depletion: WARNING

If things go in the right direction the State will soon have an authority that will monitor, regulate, and take stock of the ground water reserves, according to a highly placed source in the Department of Mines and Geology. The source said, "the move comes in the wake of drastically depleting ground water levels and reports of toxic effluents in water samples leading to dangerous and fatal diseases". The official added that the autonomous body would be called Karnataka Ground Water Authority (KGWA) and the bill is pending clearance from the Finance and Law Departments. There wouldn't be any problems because the Government is keen on the bill, say sources. The KGWA will be involved in conservation of the water table, take measures to recharge the ground water, notify areas where water is over exploited (ban pumping of water in those areas), formulate rules governing ground water, issue permission for borewells and wells, and create awareness among people on the issue. The official said that as a first measure the authority would begin registration of borewells and pumps across the State, and added that the bill also states that adopting rainwater harvesting would be made mandatory henceforth. The various corporations, municipalities and other local bodies would be directed to include this in the byelaws governing building plan sanctions.

On the current status of ground water, Dr T N Venugopal, Deputy Director (Ground Water), Department of Mines and Geology said, "groundwater in Karnataka is pathetic as primary porosity is almost absent in most areas since genesis, schist and granite form major rocks formations. Over exploitation of ground water is increasing at geometrical scales in the last few years". Highlighting a research report prepared by the Department, he said, "Karnataka with 234 watersheds (all of them have crossed 70 percent of exploitation) tops the list among all the States in the Deccan Plateau when it came to most exploited ground water tables with Bangalore leading all the towns of the State". Further, he said, an average of 15.3 lakh ham (hectare metres) is the recharge whereas 10.7 lakh ham is drawn from the table with only 30 percent left as balance (see table).

On water table levels in Bangalore, he said, "the city with hundreds of lakes and open spaces in the vicinity contributed a lot as natural water recharge sources till the 60s. People in Basavanagudi and Malleswaram used to have dug wells. Water was available at shallow depths of one to two metres. Later, encroachments because of urbanisation led to disturbance of natural water streams and lakes turning into residential layouts started affecting the table. Today, we have only a handful of lakes and no open spaces. These are the main reasons for the depleting water table".
Accusing some industries of letting concentrated industrial waste into storm water drains, he said, nitrates, fluorides and iron was found in random water samples drawn across the city. It tested well above permissible levels. He warned that if things aren't controlled this may lead to flourosis, skin diseases, blue baby syndrome and other such diseases. He added that domestic effluents also contributed towards ground water contamination.

Moving? How to make moviing house, company, city easy...7 tips

Here are a few tips to help you shift into a new house without much trouble

1. Make a list: Before you pack even one box, plan a simple record-keeping system. Number each box, and make a list of the box contents in a notebook. Be specific in your descriptions.

2. Have enough: Get many more boxes than you think you'll need.

3. Place things together: Insist on keeping things together when you are packing boxes. Keep bookends with books, light bulbs with lamps, extension cords with appliances.

4. Pack ahead: Anything you can pack ahead will save you time on moving day. Box up your shampoo and extra toothpaste, and live out of a travel cosmetic case for the last day or two.

5. Bare essentials: Cut down cooking utensils and food supplies to bare essentials. Wastebaskets can also be packed while you switch to using bags.

6. Safeguard valued items:
Keep important papers with you including birth certificates, school records, utility company numbers, recent bank records, current bills, phone lists, closing papers and so on.

7. Safe packaging: Wrap small home electronics equipment in plenty of foam padding, pack them in a box and load it on top of a soft item, such as a sofa. Pack books flat so that the spines won't break and don't jam them in tightly. Never pack fragile items with books.

Tile care: Maintenance and cleaning of ceramic tiles floor tiles, tips

Cleaning and maintaining tiles will retain their sheen and make them look good for long

If a tile gets chipped, you can use a good epoxy glue product to repair the area. However, if you want a better look then just replace the entire tile.

Cracks in tiling can also occur because of the cracked concrete flooring below the tiles. So in case you find tiles cracking, then check for cracks on the concrete floor below and get it fixed before you replace the tiles
Many tiles tend to stain easily. Wipe the stains immediately. Then clean with a mild detergent or floor washing liquid

Avoid using steel wool pads and harsh cleaning products on ceramic tiles. This will cause them to lose their lustre

Only glazed tiles are resistant to oils and acids. Take care with other types of tiles, as they will get stained easily

Tiles in the bathroom will have a build up of hard water stains, oils and soap. Use a commercial cleaner or a solution of equal parts of water and white vinegar to clean them
In case there are stains in the shower or bathroom, use chlorine bleach or hydrogen peroxide. Or else, apply a powder or liquid containing a bleaching agent, and leave it for four to six hours before scrubbing and rinsing thoroughly

Do not combine household bleaches and ammonia to apply on tiles as it will damage them

Marble tends to get stained and scratched very easily so extra care has to be taken. Oil should never be used on it as it will discolour the stone

Wooden floors: More natural & asethetic wood flooring

Afew summers ago, Ankit Verma holidayed with his family in Kashmir. The chalet style hotel that they stayed in at Pahalgam had a wood floor. Ankit was charmed. When he recently bought his own apartment, he was determined to install wood floors in all the rooms. A few years ago, his wish would have remained a pipedream. No more. A large number of firms are nowadays offering laminated wooden floors that are both affordable and tough. Many people are installing them in their homes now.

To elaborate, two types of wooden floors are available in the market - real or hard wood floors, and laminate floors. Hardwood floors are expensive. Their cost could range from Rs 350-700 per sqft, putting them beyond the budget of all but the very rich. At Rs 700 per sqft, for instance, installing a real wood floor in a 12x12 feet room would cost you about Rs 1 lakh. Real wood floors are also difficult to maintain. They damage easily - drop hot tea, or a stub of cigarette, and you ruin the plank, though some recent brands claim to be more resistant to damage.

Laminate floors (so called because they are made up of a thin, transparent upper crust that is resistant to wear and tear, and of high density fibreboard inside), on the other hand, cost less - Rs 80-260 per sqft. In addition, they are not ruined easily. It is this category that has caught on.

Wooden floors offer several advantages. One, they are aesthetically pleasing. Look at the wood and steel decor of some coffee shops or retail boutiques, and you will know. Two, they are easy to install. Your entire home can be done within 24 to 48 hours, unlike marble, stone, tiles etc., which take a lot of time. Three, laminate wooden floors are tougher, so much so that manufacturers today offer warranties ranging from 10 to 50 years.

Easy to dismantle

If you move out of one home, you can dismantle your floor and take it with you. No adhesive or nail is used these days to install the planks. Instead they come with a tongue and groove mechanism that makes them both easy to fit, and easy to dismantle. In the West, in fact, wooden floors are a DIY (do it yourself) product.
Steps in purchase
decision

First, decide where the floor will be installed - in a heavy or light traffic area. Then determine your budget. These two decisions will narrow down your range of choices considerably. Next decide the shade: do you prefer a dark or a light shade? Darker shades make the room look cosy. They are, for instance, suited for the home entertainment zone. But they also shrink the space visually. Dark floors combined with steel furniture impart a Scandinavian look to your interiors.

Lighter shades go well with smaller spaces. They also create a neat effect. Many retail outlets use them. The market for wooden floors is growing at above 40 percent annually. But given the low penetration of this product, the marketers have barely scratched the surface. With builders too installing wooden floors in their premium range apartments nowadays, expect more wood beneath your feet in future.

Mind your step…

Here are some precautions you need to take while installing wooden flooring
Make sure you don't install residential grade flooring in a commercial setup where the floor needs to be tougher

Ensure that the company you're buying from has the service backup to be able to carry out repair work in case your floor gets damaged Water on your wood flooring is like the proverbial kiss death, specially if it stagnates for a while. But laminate floors can withstand the occasional spill

Home house budget: Get more out of your budget

If your budget is tight, concentrate on artistic touches for that special look.

When the budget is tight, doing up a living room is a challenge. A little imagination can do wonders. The idea is to spend less on the fixed elements and more on artistic alternatives. If you have a budget of Rs 50,000, paint the walls with any emulsion, which would cost between Rs 6 to Rs 14 per sqft. Wallpapers come in a range of Rs 20 to Rs 40 per sqft, and thus do not fit in this budget. Cheaper wallpapers are not of very good quality and are hence not advisable.

If the basic flooring is of a decent quality then it need not be ripped off. Most of the flooring is covered by furniture. Therefore, the uncovered floor can be covered with dhurries or carpets. They need not be expensive; sometimes one can get a good deal at some exhibitions or expos.

The trick on cutting cost on furniture is to stick with the bare necessities. Choose very few furniture pieces. Custom-made furniture is preferable. Do not compromise on quality or you may end up spending much more than planned before you know it. Reduce the size of your TV unit, as it will cut cost. Instead of sofas one can also go for low divans or other informal seating. This creates a warm atmosphere.

Instead of using fluorescent lights, lamps with interesting shades can be used in the living room. Now-adays lamps made of different materials like bamboo, paper and acrylic are available, in a wide range of designs and prices. If you use enough of them, the lamps can provide the right amount of brightness. Placing them near artifacts can also enhance the beauty of the space.

Upholstery is available in a wide range of fabrics, colours, designs and prices. You can also stay well within your budget by recycling materials that you already have in the house, and using it for decorative purposes.

How to create illusion of more space wth colors and decors

You can create the illusion of more space with colours and decor


Do you feel your home is cramped and claustrophobic though there's enough space? Though a room is big enough, you may still feel it's cluttered. You may wonder how people living in tiny houses make great living spaces of their homes. Well, it's all in the effective use of design elements.
Extending personal

space

In everyday life, the concept of personal space plays a vital role in social interaction. Personal space is the area around a person's body into which others may not come. But this 'bubble' varies from person to person - while for some the bubble may mean two feet, for others it could be four feet. Similarly, this concept can be extended to space within one's living environs. Though it doesn't translate into not allowing people into one's home, it does affect one's perception of space within the home. R Harsh's home looks quite empty to any person but to him it's got the basic necessities and he vehemently says he's not adding any more furniture. "I have always lived on my own and every few years I move cities because of the nature of my job. I have basic furniture and I definitely am not looking at sprucing up my home. I love having empty space around the home - it gives me freedom of movement and a feeling of being free."

Creating 'space' at home

There are numerous ways in which you can create a feeling of spaciousness within the home. One popular idea of course is the use of mirrors around the home. Large mirrors give the feeling of expanded spaces and double the visual width of the room. The use of long, wide mirrors is quite apt for places like hallways, entrances, dining rooms, living rooms, home gyms and bathrooms. Adding a nice frame or design along the edge of the mirror gives it an elegant, artistic touch.

In case you are building a house, have fewer walls as this will also create more space in the home. Architect and interior designer Mary Paul suggests the use of glass to create an illusion of space. She says, "instead of walls between rooms you can have glass partitions. You can go for a pebbled partition, that is having pebbles between two sheets of glass, and use that instead of a wall. Or you can go in for a low wall or ledge and have creeper plants over it." Use French doors and windows, making sure that there are plenty of windows. More windows not only mean more light but it also adds a feeling of space to the home.

Mary also suggests the use of pastel colours in home decor as another option open to you saying, "lighter shades make spaces look bigger." Colours are quite eye-catching in interiors and they make any room warm and cozy. You can make a small apartment look spacious by using the same colour but in different juxtapositions. Cooler shades like blue, green and lavender will make objects appear farther away. For instance, complement blues with golden neutrals and pink, yellow or red accessories, or with white. Thus, opt for bold blocks of cool colour. And instead of leaving your ceiling white, you can add colour to give it depth. Follow a similar theme with upholstery and furnishings too.

The use of lights also contributes to how your home looks. There are a variety of lights one finds but some of them can be used effectively for creating space. While uplighters are used to define an area, downlighters bathe walls with light thereby making a room look bigger. Reflective lighting is a directional source and bounces or reflects off a wall or ceiling.

At the end of a day you should look forward to coming back home. So take some time out to create that space which you wouldn't want to trade for anything in the world.
Create more storage space…

No matter how much space we have, we still seem to lack storage space. Here are a few ideas to create storage space and not clutter your home
If you have a bay window or an alcove, make a window seat with a flip lid so that you can store things in the space below

If you have a home office, then create a single wall unit that will accommodate everything from your PC to fax. This will not clutter the room and give you more space to keep things

The area under the stairs is very useful for storage of items like linen and towels
Buy box beds, especially for children, so that you can store their toys and other items easily Choose space-saving appliances such as wall-mounted phones

Tenant eviction: landlords need to have solid grounds to evict or regain possession

Amajor concern of landlords while renting out property is that of getting the property back as and when needed. The system has many loopholes which are used by tenants in case of disputes to avoid eviction. In order to prevent exploitation of tenants, various States in India have passed Rent Control Acts. These Acts have substantially added to the rights and obligations of landlords and tenants.

These Acts seek to:

Control the amount charged as rent

Lay down the rights and obligations of landlords and tenants

List out the reasons for which a landlord can ask a tenant to leave, i.e. the grounds for eviction

In the Rent Control Act of each State, the grounds for eviction are provided. In some Acts it is mentioned as 'bonafide requirement'. In some it is 'reasonable requirement', while in others, 'need', 'genuine need' or 'requires reasonably and in good faith' have been included.

The meaning of all these terms is virtually the same. The point has been well-debated at various levels. There are many judgements made on the matter. Now, almost every High Court has considered it in various cases and laid down some general principles.

These include:
A landlord is the best judge of his requirements. He has complete freedom in the matter

He should live or prescribe for himself a standard of his living
Need of the landlord should be genuine and honest, conceived in good faith A landlord's desire for possession, however honest it might be, has inevitably a subjective element in it. For that desire to become a 'requirement' in the eyes of the law, it must have the objective element of a 'need'. It must also be such that the Court considers it reasonable, and therefore eligible to be granted
'Reasonable requirement' implies that there is an element of need as opposed to a mere desire or wish. The distinction between desire and need should be kept in mind, but not so as to make even a genuine need as nothing but a desire
These points clearly show that the move to evacuate a tenant should not be arbitrary. It needs to be substantiated by some solid grounds - genuine need or requirement of the landlord, or some other circumstances that necessitate the landlord regaining possession of his property. The desire to repossess the property must be backed by a genuine need so that it becomes a requirement in the eyes of the law. The landlord must act in good faith rather that having mala fide intentions. Further, it is the landlord who is the best judge of his needs and requirements, and the way he wants to live.

Fixed & Floating rates: How to choose fixed & floating rates

Though not much change is expected in the near future, new borrowers would do well by going in for fixed rates.

The recent hike in interest rates of housing loans has again set borrowers (and prospective) borrowers thinking about which option to go in for. The decision to go in for the fixed interest rate option, the floating interest option, or to take the middle path is not easy to make. It has to be taken on the face of uncertainties. The costs of an error are high and so is the potential to err. One wrong judgement will entail a longterm liability and the gamble may not pay off. It is all the more important because the quantum of borrowing is large and the time period for repayment long.

As is common knowledge, in case of a fixed rate of interest, the rate of interest is decided before hand, at the time of taking the loan. The rate remains the same during the tenure of the loan irrespective of the market rates of interest. In case the interest rates goes up, the borrower still pays on the agreed lower rates of interest. In case the interest rates go down, the borrower loses as he has to pay a higher interest as compared to the market rates.

On the other hand, in case of floating rate loans, the rate of interest is linked to the market rate or a benchmark rate. For example, the prime lending rate of the bank. The rate of interest varies directly with the market rates. In case the interest rates go down, the cost of borrowing for the borrower also goes down. In case the rate of interest goes up, the cost of borrowing for the borrower also goes up. Thus, the borrower floats along with the market rates of interest and has to constantly monitor the market movement of interest rates.

In case of semi-fixed loan or semi-floating loans, one can get a flavour of both fixed as well as floating rates. A portion of the loan is treated as fixed and the balance is treated as variable or alternatively, for the first few years, the interest rate is fixed and after that period the interest rate is floating.

The change - increase or decrease - in interest rates can be passed on to the borrower either as change in amount of equated monthly instalments (EMIs) or through change in the number of instalments to be paid. Usually, the EMIs are not disturbed and the amount is adjusted through the number of instalments payable.

While taking a decision, a borrower faces a dilemma. Which option to go in for - fixed or floating rate? A risk is involved in both the cases and the borrower needs to take a conscious decision after analysing certain factors.

A retail borrower should objectively analyse the general trend in movement of interest rates. In case all interest rates have been going up over a period of time (which has been the case recently), then the general expectation is that interest rates on housing loans would also go up, and vice versa. The main factor is the time period over which the trend would continue.

Going by the present scenario, inflation rates may see an upward movement consequent to the global price rise of crude oil. An increase in inflation will have an impact on interest rates as well. Simultaneously, the adequate liquidity in the system will tend to prevent a drastic increase in interest rates. So forces on both sides would tend to have an impact on interest rates. However, the floating interest rate borrower need not panic. Interest rates won't touch alarming heights as they did in the past. Some corrections will definitely take place, and we are already witnessing them by way of increase in interest rates by some banks. For new borrowers, they may do well to lock in at the fixed rates so as to insulate themselves against the vagaries of changes in interest rates.

Flooring: how to Choose wood laminated flooring, myths of flooring

The floor is the base for a beautiful home and should be chosen after much deliberation on functionality and aesthetics

Flooring is a background to your furniture - it can make or break your decor. So, next time when you decide to re-work your house, consider the kind of flooring to use. The most expensive flooring may not give you a value satisfaction if the job is not done right. So, before you plunge into the wide variety of flooring material available in the market, be sure you know your exact requirement.

These are some points that need to be considered before you choose your flooring material:

The flooring material should give the effect of beauty, spaciousness, cleanliness, and should reflect light. Light floors give a feeling of large space whereas dark floors make the room look small

Flooring should reflect light. The effect of natural light, and artificial light and shadow should be considered

Even expensive floorings start to look dull over a period of time, so the flooring material should be easy to clean, low on maintenance, should not be stained easily and should be washable whenever needed

Flooring material should not require frequent polishing, painting, or bleaching
It should be durable and longlasting. It should not chip and flake easily
It should be accident-proof

Flooring material should not be too bright, heat-conserving, or noise reverberating
It should be chosen taking into consideration the space available, the density of traffic and the actual user. For example, in a children's bedroom one should not go for delicate or expensive flooring as they are susceptible to wear and tear
The selection of flooring material should never be done in isolation without considering the theme or style to be incorporated. Flooring materials are more varied than ever before, offering a combination of fashion and function. But all those attractive new options might leave you feeling a little confused about what best suits your needs.

So weigh your options well, work out the economics and go ahead.

Some myths about flooring

Lavish floors make for poor interiors Expensive flooring gives a richer look Cheaper flooring can never give a rich look

Facts

Over design can kill the overall beauty of the floor It is skill and visualisation that gives inexpensive materials a unique look in combination with other aspects like walls, lighting, colour scheme and furniture

How Cofee table enhance the decor and ambiance

The artifacts to be used on the coffee table can be in a variety of materials. Whatever is used should complement the surrounding decor and enhance the ambiance. A very popular choice is glass in its various forms like crystal, cut glass, coloured glass and stained glass. Since tabletops are often made of glass, these decor objects match the base on which they are placed. Metals such as brass, bronze, pewter and copper are often added for an ethnic look. Pieces with carving, etching, filigree work and embossing against a backdrop of silks and period furniture have a special old world charm. Stone and wood can be used to fashion many exquisite objects like statues, boxes, bowls, paperweights, picture frames etc that can beautify a space. Very often the tabletop is made from stained or etched glass or a carved wooden panel with intricate inlay work. At such times crowding the area with too many decor items distracts from the beauty of both the table and the pieces themselves.

Cofee Table: How to choose coffee table with care

Choose Coffee Table carefully

Since the coffee table is usually situated in the center of the living room it attracts immediate attention while entering a home. Just as a bare table can be monotonous, an overly crowded one can be too busy and unappealing.

Some basic factors to avoid confusion and preserve aesthetic appeal:

Dimension: The dimension of the table, room and overall volume of the space dictates the size of the artifacts that will suit the coffee table. Oversize statues are an example of not adhering to proportion between the items that form the ambience in a room.

Colour: This is a two dimensional tool that creates a suitable statement in a space. The decor items on the coffee table can be either of muted hues if meant to blend with the theme or in sharp contrast if focus is required. Too many colours on the surface will be distracting. Sometimes the colour of a decor piece like a figurine can match those running through the soft furnishings like drapes, carpets, upholstery and wall hangings, and tie the design theme together.

Weight: Some ceramic, stone and metal pieces can be very heavy. Adequate support is required to ensure that a fragile tabletop does not crack, splinter or break resulting in the loss of the table and probably expensive artifacts.

Location: Just as heavy items should be placed carefully, fragile pieces must be located in a safe place. They should not be in an area on the table where a careless nudge can dislodge it. Also, breakable items need to be out of reach of children who can be injured in any accidental damage.

Ambience: Some items add a formal air while others create a casual atmosphere. Modern decor pieces may look awkward in an ethnic interior while heavy cut glass will not complement bamboo furniture. Finally, even a single judiciously chosen piece can beautify a coffee table instead of a jumble of knick-knacks.

Partnership deeds: 11 lethal tips you CAN NOT MISS

Sometimes, entrepreneurs join together to put up or acquire property as a business venture. The rent accrued out of it or profits from selling projects are shared by the partners. A partnership works well when an individual does not have all it takes to manage a property business. A partner will fill in the void and help in better management.

However, it is important to ensure a proper and comprehensive partnership deed is made so that the property business runs smoothly. Partners getting together either to market real estate or earn from renting out their projects should incorporate relevant clauses in their deed.

1. Basic elements: The name and place of the project should be mutually decided between the partners of the firm. The nature of projects and the duration of venture should also be mentioned here.

2. Funding: The money contributed towards the capital of the project is always equated to the ratio of money brought in by each individual. However, if money is pumped in as and when required by the partners they are entitled to carry an interest on their capital or principle amount.

3. Profits and losses: The profits and losses of the project are always arrived at after debiting all expenses, remuneration for the partners and the interest on capital paid by the partners. It is shared or borne by the partners in the manner in which they have agreed.

4. Management: It is always advisable to have a managing partner to the project to look after the dayto-day activities. The other partners can assist the managing partner and also they will have equal power to enter into a contract, employ and terminate staff, acquire and dispose properties and represent the project.

5. Bank accounts: The partners can open accounts in any bank on behalf of the project. The partners should operate the account jointly or severally with power to draw, endorse, negotiate bills and discount cheques.

6. Borrowing: The active partner should consult the other partners before borrowing on behalf of the firm. Any borrowing made otherwise will not be liable on the project and will constitute liability on the partner who makes the borrowing. A proper book of accounts should be maintained. It should be maintained at the place of project and should be open for inspection to all the partners.

7. Mutual rights and obligations: Usually, there should be no bar for partners who want to carry on any other similar businesses either individually or by entering into other partnerships. However, the partners can include a clause that could restrict a partner in doing this.

8. Retirement/death: The death of any individual will not affect the project. However, the legal heir will take the place of the partner. In case of retirement, his accounts should be settled within a stipulated period of time of retirement.

9. Dissolution: On dissolution of the project, the outgoings of the firm should be discharged first. The capital contributed by the partners should be refunded next. Then, the partners, in proportion to their capital ratio, should share the residue.

10. Arbitration: It is better to always have an arbitration clause in case of any dispute in matters of partnership or the project. It should be referred to and settled under the provisions of the Arbitration Act. The award of the arbitrator is final and binding.

11. Registration: It is always better to add a clause which states that the Indian Partnership Act of 1932 is applicable wherever necessary. The partnership deed should be adequately stamped and all partners concerned, in the presence of two witnesses, should sign the deed.

The deed should be registered under the Indian Partnership Act of 1932 on Form No 5 and submitted to the Registrar of Firms.

Coffee table & pebbles, shells, decorative lamps, floating candles

A very common tabletop item is the ashtray. Though it has a functional role, its design often makes it attractive enough to become the adornment of the table. Statues in various materials create interest. Groups of three or more figurines can be used to formulate a theme in one corner. A low profile fresh or dry flower arrangement gives the room ambiance and fragrance. Multi-coloured pebbles, shells, decorative lamps, embroidered table runners, floating candles and flowers in containers, decorative pottery, musical timepieces etc are some of the variety of pieces that can be displayed on a table top.

Formal interiors can also use porcelain or silver tea sets as decor pieces, to be used when required. Since the sets are beautiful in their embellishments it adds to the aesthetics of the area. Delicate items are often arranged at a lower level where they can be viewed through the glass tabletop, which also acts as a protective layer on top.

Coffee tables and artifacts

Choose artifacts that blend with the rest of the ambience for your coffee table

Most living room seating configurations have a coffee table in the center. This item of furniture forms the focal point of the space. Its design and fabrication material dictates its appeal. Apart from its utilitarian properties the look and visual appeal of a center table can be enhanced with the use of decorative artifacts.

Workplace design: Flexibility is the key to productivity

A workplace should be designed to offer maximum flexibility.


The design of a workplace has changed significantly in recent times in response to changing work practices. Hence, flexibility is one of the key elements that must be incorporated into the design of offices. To elaborate, today a certain space in the office may have to be closed and private one day, and open and collaborative the next. Says architect Brij Agarwal, "the old debate regarding the merits and demerits of open vis-a-vis closed office has become irrelevant. The real issue is to enable change - from an open environment to a private one and back to open."

These days work has become more knowledge-intensive, collaborative and immediate. After years of focusing on cutting the cost of space and making it as efficient as possible, there is not much flab left to cut. Now, savvy facility directors are focusing instead on creating a highperformance workplace that will boost employee productivity. They are shifting their focus from the space people occupy to the nature of the work they do, and how the workplace environment can support their work most effectively.

Nowadays, thanks to technology and the high level of connectivity it makes possible, work is no longer so place-dependent. Hence, designing today's workplace is not just about installing cubes and partitions; it is also about putting in place an appropriate combination of space, protocols, technology and tools that allow for 365/24/7 connectivity and enhance employee productivity.

Developer Sanjiv Gupta says, "to be successful, corporate real estate and facility management need to be conversant with key aspects of the employees' work and how the workplace can support it. They need to understand what, where, how, when and with whom work gets done." AEZ Carnival Country's Project Director Sanjay Kakkar says, "adaptable workspaces are most essential for companies likely to face uncertainty due to hiring or downsizing, which are driven by market shifts. These are typically organisations dealing with fast-evolving technologies, which are struggling to keep up with a fast changing environment. Their workplace must adapt to change as quickly as other aspects of their business."

Today, six integrated performance systems must function well to ensure high productivity:

Air quality: The air quality system addresses the health, safety and comfort related concerns of employees by providing filtration, ventilation and humidity control.

Thermal comfort: Thermal control systems must provide individualised control to employees, allowing them to respond to their constantly changing need for more heating or more cooling. A system where the control is handed over to employees works much better than a complaint-driven system.

Connectivity: Connectivity for voice, data and power systems poses one of the biggest challenges in creating an adaptable workplace. Embedded technologies inhibit flexibility and reliability, and lead to the all-too-familiar instances of abandoned cabling, excessively core-drilled floors, and outdated infrastructure. To be adaptable, the facility must provide both wireless and wired connectivity. There must be provision for access to infrastructure in such a manner that ongoing operations aren't disturbed.

Lighting: In an adaptable workplace, lighting must adjust for individual and group tasks. Standard lighting systems may reduce the initial cost but don't provide adequate flexibility. Adaptable lighting, again, requires distribution of controls. The design should also take advantage of natural lighting in order to maximise energy efficiency.

Interior spaces: Increasingly manufactured components are being installed in office interiors that allow for maximum adaptability. The increased integration of previously isolated systems will, in future, provide even greater adaptability.

Building shell: In addition to an adaptable interior, the impact of the building shell must also be taken into consideration. The shell should be designed such that it projects the right image of the enterprise housed within.

Remember that technology, and the new patterns of work it makes possible, always race ahead of actual practice. Thus, acceptance for tele-work, team clusters, virtual work strategies and other approaches will take time. In the final analysis, the design of the workplace must be dictated by business objectives. As Nirmita Mehrotra, Assistant Professor of Architecture, says "you can measure the additional value generated by your workplace by measuring employee output. If you can increase and sustain output, it means you are getting a positive return on your investments on the workplace."

Fuel Cell Technology: Advantages, Disadvantages, pros n cons

Pros & cons…
This technology has its share of merits and demerits: Advantages
Eliminates pollution - almost negligible Hydrogen generated from water electrolysis completely eliminates green house gases Can be produced anywhere if there is water and electricity Installation of small stationery fuel cells lead to a more stabilised and reliable power grids Higher efficiency than gas or diesel engines Silent as compared to noisy diesel engines Low heat transmission make them ideal for military applications Operating time is much longer than conventional batteries Maintenance is negligible since there are considerably lesser moving parts Disadvantages
Fueling the cells is a problem today since there is no established production, transportation, and distribution system. Storing hydrogen is difficult Some fuel cells are extremely expensive
Bigger than conventional batteries
Reforming hydrocarbons to produce hydrogen is technically-challenging and not absolutely eco-friendly Most units are handmade today
Technology is at its nascent stage and a full suite of products are still not available