How To Build a Fireplace

My Dad and I have differing ideas about the proper way to build a fire in the fireplace. (He forgot to open the flue last time, so I think I should prevail on that issue alone.) Just curious what the general concensius is on this subject.

first i put down crumpled up paper – newspaper works best, and i use about 6 pieces. then i put cardboard. then small sticks or starter wood, if i have any. then a bit bigger sticks, then a couple of medium sized pieces of wood that will catch more easily (softwood like pine, not dense wood if i have a choice). then, light the newspaper and stand back and watch!
we heated our home with wood fires for many years, so we HAD to learn to start a fire right the first time.

When asked about Caribbean architecture, many tourists might think of small, colorful houses and grass huts. In Curacao, however, the architecture is inextricably linked to the colonial past. Despite the sparkling Caribbean Sea and dry climate, much of Curacao resembles the great Dutch city of Amsterdam more than the picture book version of the region. Under control of the Netherlands since the 17th century, Curacao was constructed as a home away from home for colonizers. Throughout the years, the pervasive Dutch architecture adopted many Caribbean traits. The additions of such things as porches, verandas and bright exterior colors created the spectacular sites on view for todays visitors. Though many call the island Holland in miniature, you will be greeted by a world that is uniquely Curacao. Go to architects for more information.

Curacao was originally discovered by the Spanish expedition of Amerigo Vespucci and Alonso de Ojeda in 1499. After gaining control of the island and ousting the native Arawak population, the Spanish ruled the island for over a century. However, in 1634, the Dutch invaded Curacao and quickly turned the island into a Caribbean version of Holland. Under the rule of Pieter Stuyvesant, the Dutch fought off invasion attempts by the British and French with the help of several forts along the coastline. Though many of these forts remain today some of which have been converted into resorts and restaurants the true architectural allure of Curacao came from everyday life.

The capital city of Willemstad dates to the Dutch invasion of 1634 and the outlines of its fortifying walls can still be seen. Following the signing of a peace treaty with Spain, the Dutch began constructing numerous houses and businesses throughout the island. The focus of Curacao and its Dutch rulers quickly turned from defense and fortification to the rapidly expanding trade market. By the early 18th century, nearly 200 homes and business had been constructed within the walls of Willemstad, each in the quaint Dutch style of the era.

In Willemstad, the best example of the Holland in miniature” concept is the district known as Otrobanda. Constructed upon a winding grid of alleyways and narrow streets, this neighborhood most closely resembles the archetypal 17th century Dutch town. As the city developed throughout the centuries, Otrobanda eventually became the islands cultural hotbed in the early 20th century. In fact, most of Curacao most recognized politicians, artists and musicians grew up in this truly unique part of the capital city. Today, Otrobanda continues to display both strong ethnic and cultural diversity a trait seen inside local businesses and amongst the residents that stroll the maze-like streets. Refer to achitechure for further information.

Within the capital city, it is also recommended to walk through the areas known as Punda also referred to as old Willemstad and known for its imposing fort and Pietermaai a neighborhood just outside of central Willemstad know for its colonial mansions. Perhaps the most interesting fact about Punda is that the first buildings constructed here were, in fact, perfect replicas of the homes and businesses that border the canals of Amsterdam. Today, Punda features architecture from several different eras of European design with each building painstakingly preserved. The neighborhood of Pietermaai dates to the early 18th century and marked the first residential expansion beyond the walls of Willemstad. Many of these stately European homes have since been converted into businesses, while others remain in their original state.

If you venture outside of Willemstad to the arid landscape of the islands interior, you will most likely spot a number of plantation homes and Dutch windmills. Like many of the structures in Willemstad, most of the plantations date to the 18th century. While many plantation homes and their surrounding buildings have been reduced to rubble, some of the estates have been preserved as museums. If you are interested in how these people lived during colonial times, visit the Sorghum Stalk House Museum.

Many of the islands most popular tours visit the most interesting architectural sites and several museums in Willemstad document the unique history of this Caribbean treasure. Even if you aren’t usually moved by architecture, it will be hard to avoid the charm of Curacao. Go to architects for further information.

Zoning laws may affect the value of your real estate investment. There are three main zoning area, and these are residential, commercial, and industrial. Residential zoning applies to residences and multi family dwellings, commercial zoning usually applies to businesses, and industrial zoning normally applies to manufacturing shops and plants. Zoning laws will vary from area to area and city to city, so make sure that you know the zoning restrictions on any real estate before you invest. For more information visit property developments

The purpose of zoning laws is to specify what types of dwellings or businesses may reside in a certain area. Obviously you would not want to see an adult entertainment club next to an elementary school, or a manufacturing plant in the middle of a residential area. Zoning laws group areas of the town or city into specific areas for each type of land use. Zoning laws may change, and a real estate investment that is zoned commercial or residential today may be rezoned for another use in the future.

If you invest in real estate that is rental property, your tenants may cause zoning problems. Tenants who run a business from their home may unknowingly violate zoning laws, so it is very important to have a clause in your lease agreement stating what can and can not be done on your rental premises. Most home based businesses are not a problem, but if the tenant has customers coming to the property, there may be complaints about noise or traffic which can cause problems. Go to Commercial Property for further information.

Another way that zoning laws may affect your real estate investment is when zoning is changed from one class to another. If the zoning is changed from residential to another class this can mean a higher property value, which means more value for your investment.. If the class is changed to residential then the property value may drop, causing you to lose money on your investment. Sometimes there is a conditional zoning requirement. One case may be where a residence has existed on a property for years. If the zoning laws change the area from residential to commercial, the city can not force the owner to sell or tear down the residence. But if the home is destroyed in a natural disaster or fire it can not be rebuilt, and only commercial buildings can be built on the land.

It is very important for a real estate investor to know the zoning requirements of any property before they invest. Find out what these laws are and any proposed changes. This can save you a lot of money and aggravation. Make sure that your lease agreement states what activities are allowed and not allowed on the rental premises. Find out what the other properties in the same area as the possible investment are zoned. By being aware of the zoning laws and requirements you will avoid some costly and time consuming mistakes. Refer to Residential Property for more information.