MMD Copperbelt province information and Publicity Secretary Yotam Mtayachalo has described former Defence Minister Geoffrey Mwamba as a rare breed in Zambian political arena.

MMD Copperbelt Information and Publicity Secretary Yotam Mtayachalo says the decision taken by Mr. Mwamba to take such a bold decision to resign after differing with the President on principle is a rare one in Zambian politics.

Mr. Mtayachalo notes that most politicians in the country lack such principles as exhibited by Mr Mwamba, as their interest is to protect their bellies.

He also notes Mr Mwambas immerse contribution to the Patriotic Front, adding that his resignation is the beginning of cracks in the ruling party.

And Mr Mtayachalo says Zambians are falling to understand what the President is trying to achieve by battling with the Bemba traditional leadership.

He says there is need to allow traditional leaders to operate independently without political interference.

And the National Restoration party (NAREP) has commended former Defence Minister Geoffrey Mwamba for what it has described as a principled decision over the deadlock surrounding the Chitimululu Chieftaincy.

NAREP National Chairman Joseph Mushalika notes that while the manner of the resignation is regrettable, the move is based on principle after President Sata gave Mr. Mwamba the option to choose between keeping his job or the Chitimukulu designate.

And the Foundation for Democratic Process (FODEP) has observed that the resignation of Defence Minister, Geoffrey Mwamba, speaks volumes that the Bemba speaking people are willing to fight for what is right for them regarding the installation of Henry Sosala as Paramount Chief Chitimukulu.

FODEP Executive Director, MacDonald Chipenzi, says there is need for President Michael Sata to allow the Bemba speaking people to choose their traditional leader and not impose sanctions on them.

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GBM described as a rare breed among Zambian Poloticians

"When over four million home owners swear by a product you can't deny it must be worth their hard earned money. That's what people say about HardiPlank Siding." HardiPlank siding is a revolutionary exterior siding product that is nothing short of a masterstroke in cement fiber technology. Durable, attractive, and relatively easy to [Click Here To Read More...]

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Hardiplank Siding - Pros Cons, Prices, Installation

Thesequestions arepublished by the Vinyl Siding Institute, Inc. (VSI) as a service to the industry. VSI members are manufacturers of vinyl and other polymeric siding and suppliers to the industry. The information provided in thisdocument is offered in good faith and believed to be reliable, but is made without warranty, express or implied, as to merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, or any other matter. VSI does not endorse the proprietary products or processes of any manufacturer. Thisdocument is not intended to provide specific advice, legal or otherwise, on particular products or processes. Readers should consult with their own legal and technical advisors, vinyl siding suppliers, and other appropriate sources (including but not limited to product or package labels, technical bulletins, or sales literature) that contain information about known and reasonably foreseeable health and safety risks of their proprietary products and processes. VSI, its members, and contributors do not assume any responsibility for the users compliance with applicable laws and regulations, nor for any persons relying on the information contained in this document.

Installers should review local building codes and manufacturers literature for variations that may apply to specific products and/or geographic areas.

Q: What are the keys to a good vinyl siding installation job? A: Allowing for Expansion and Contraction Vinyl siding contracts and expands as the outside temperature changes. To avoid structural or aesthetic problems associated with this characteristic, take the following steps:

For more information, refer to page 15 ofthe VSI Vinyl Siding Installation Manual.

Keeping It Straight and Level Keep in mind, siding is only as straight and stable as what lies under it. Below are some issues to address before you start installation:

Q: How do I prepare the structure's walls? A: Your main goal in preparing the walls of the structure is to ensure a flat, even surface. On any project, remember to install code-compliant flashing before starting to apply siding.

New Construction As stated in the VSI Vinyl Siding Installation Manual, before you begin installing vinyl siding in a new construction project:

Residing As stated in the VSI Vinyl Siding Installation Manual, before you begin construction on a residing project:

For more information, refer to page 17 of the VSI Vinyl Siding Installation Manual.

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Installation FAQ - VSI - The Vinyl Siding Institute

home section Interior Design Housekeeping Entertaining Home Improvement Gardening & Plants Landscaping eHow Home & Garden Home Repair & Maintenance Exterior Home Repair How to Install Masonite Lap Siding

Michael Logan

Michael Logan is a writer, editor and web page designer. His professional background includes electrical, computer and test engineering, real estate investment, network engineering and management, programming and remodeling company owner. Logan has been writing professionally since he was first published in "Test & Measurement World" in 1989.

Masonite lap siding is an inexpensive alternative to wood siding. It looks similar to wood siding, but it costs less and comes in widths up to 12 inches. Often referred to as hardboard siding, Masonite has received a poor reputation in recent years for lack of durability. However, with proper installation and maintenance, Masonite lap siding will last 10 years or more. Following the manufacturer's recommendations will result in house siding that won't rot or deteriorate in two or three years.

Set up the paint sprayer according to the manufacturer's instructions. Fill the sprayer with primer paint.

Prime the back side of the lap siding with two even coats of primer. Add an additional coat of primer to the front of the lap siding. Coat evenly and do not allow heavy buildups. Cover all the edges. Allow the primer to dry completely between coats. Give the 1x2 and 1x3 lumber a coat of primer at the same time.

Apply two coats of paint with the sprayer, covering the front, back and edges of the siding. Allow the paint to dry completely between coats. Paint the 1x2 and 1x3 lumber with one coat of paint.

Use the laser level to mark a line around the house. The line should be located one siding width up from the lowest level of the installed siding. Snap a chalk line on the marks on each side of the house.

Measure and cut a piece of 1x2 to fit the corner of the house from the chalk line to the eave. With the piece flush to the corner, nail it in place with galvanized finish nails. Complete this step for all the corners of the house.

On the opposite side of the corner, cut and fit a piece of 1x3 to match the 1x2 already in place. Hold it flush with the outer edge of the 1x2 and nail in place with galvanized finish nails. Complete this step for all the corners of the house.

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How to Install Masonite Lap Siding | eHow

Houston, TX (PRWEB) December 20, 2013

Each home is different, from the paint job all the way to the architecture itself. When homeowners need to install new windows or replace older ones, they want to find a window that suits the aesthetic of their home. Home Exterior Systems has announced new custom options so that new windows may be installed in homes of every style. Different architectural styles, shapes, designs, glass, energy efficiency features, and safety features are being offered as options for custom windows to fit individual homes. These custom window installation options can all be tailored to fit a variety of different budgets.

As different homeowners will have different concerns and thus different needs, Home Exterior Systems offers a variety of glass options for custom windows. These glass options provide different qualities, including sound control and noise dampening, increased security and protection from harsh weather, and increased energy efficiency.

There are many new options being offered to increase energy efficiency in a home with the custom windows for Home Exterior Systems. For example, there is an Argon gas fill available, such as in the Triple Pane 366 glass, to act as an insulation. Windows with insulating properties help keep the inside of a home warmer in the winter months and cooler in the summer months. The Prosolar Soft Coat Low E Glass is now offered to increase thermal energy efficiency and to provide protection against ultraviolet penetration. The overlapping and interlocking meeting rail offered by Home Exterior Systems is offered to provide an extra tight seal around the windows to keep conditioned air from seeping out of the home and outside air from flowing into it.

The custom windows offered by Home Exterior Systems provides new safety and security features. Laminated glass, such as the WhisperGlass, is offered to protect the window from harsh weather and to prevent potential home intruders from being able to break the glass to gain entry. Strong dual cam locks are offered to keep burglars out of a home by allowing the homeowners to control whether the windows can be opened.

About Home Exterior Systems is an owner-operated company that seeks to give its customers "a brand new house at the same old address." It provides many home improvement services, including the installation of new windows and doors, Hardie board house siding, roofing, decks, patios, gutters, and patios. It also provides a power washing service. Home Exterior Systems can be contacted by phone at 281-542-9577.

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Home Exterior Systems Announces New Custom Windows Options

home section Interior Design Housekeeping Entertaining Home Improvement Gardening & Plants Landscaping eHow Home & Garden Building & Remodeling Building Materials & Supplies Shiplap Siding Installation

Alexander Callos

Alexander Callos began writing in 2005 for "The Lantern" at The Ohio State University and has written for various websites, including Bleacher Report, Top Ten Real Estate Deals and Columbus Sports. He has published articles for CBS Sports, SI.com and other websites. He graduated in 2007 from The Ohio State University with a bachelor's degree in public affairs journalism.

Shiplap siding is a type of wood siding that can be installed either horizontally or vertically. It is installed just like any other type of siding on the side of a house. This type of siding will give the house a more natural wood look. It can be installed directly on top of the vapor barrier underneath. Shiplap siding is available in various widths ranging from four inches to ten inches.

Measure the length and width of each side of the house where the shiplap siding will be installed. Multiply the width by the length of each side and add all of the sides together to get the total square footage.

Inspect the side of the house to make sure there is no damage to the plywood sheathing. If there is damage, the pieces may need to be replaced before installation of the siding begins. Check for gaps between the plywood and cracks on the surface that go all the way through the sheathing.

Roll out the plastic vapor barrier beginning at any corner of the house you choose. Staple the vapor barrier to the sheathing every 12 inches and continue rolling it out until reaching the end of the first side. Cut it with scissors and repeat the process along the bottom of all the other sides of the house.

Set the next layer of vapor barrier directly above the first and continue installing it until every side of the house is covered with the plastic sheeting. Lay the first piece of shiplap siding horizontally across the bottom of the first side of the house. Insert a nail directly into the center edge of the siding with a hammer. Move three inches down and insert another nail. Continue inserting nails every three inches down the siding.

Set the second piece next to the first and leave a gap of 1/8 inch for expansion. Install the second piece in the same manner and continue until reaching the edge of the first wall. Cut the piece to fit with a circular saw if necessary and continue around the house until the bottom row is installed.

Set the first piece of the second layer directly above the first layer, leaving a gap of 1/8 inch for expansion and continue installing the siding until the entire house has been covered.

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Shiplap Siding Installation | eHow - eHow | How to Videos ...

Houston, TX (PRWEB) December 17, 2013

There are several materials that are commonly used on the exteriors of homes throughout the local area, and siding is one of those materials. However, there are several different types and styles of siding that homeowners can choose from. These materials may range in terms of their appearance, price, maintenance requirements and overall durability. For those who are looking for the best siding material available for their home, Hardieplank is the clear solution. Texas Home Pro has been working hard to provide its clients with quality siding installation services for years, and it has recently announced new Hardieplank services to benefit its customers in the Houston area.

Hardieplank siding is a highly affordable and very durable type of siding that is often preferred by many homeowners. In fact, it has already been installed on over 5.5 million homes across the United States. It is known for durability because it can resist common problems with other types of siding such as chipping, peeling, cracking, bowing and fading. In addition, it is known for its decorative appeal. There are several styles available for homeowners to choose from. In addition, Hardieplank siding is available in numerous colors that include Arctic White, Parkside Pine, Cobble Stone, Navajo Beige, Sandstone Beige, Soft Green and others. This gives homeowners who want to improve the condition of their home while enhancing its decorative appeal plenty of options.

Texas Home Pro is known for providing quality installation of Hardieplank siding, but the company also offers an extensive selection of other services. In fact, Texas Home Pro is a full-service company that can assist with all aspects of exterior home maintenance. Its wide range of services include services for roofs, windows and gutters as well. Some homeowners may only be interested in upgrading their siding, but others may be interested in completing an extensive renovation of the exterior of their home. Texas Home Pro offers the services necessary to complete all exterior home projects as a benefit to its valued customers.

Homeowners who have been thinking about replacing their siding or about completing other exterior home improvement projects can contact Texas Home Pro for more information. A representative from the company can meet with homeowners in person to discuss project ideas and to answer questions about material options. This initial meeting is a great first step for homeowners to take, and it is a step toward achieving the desired results for the exterior of the home.

About Texas Home Pro is a trusted and reputable leader in home exterior services, and it offers an extensive range of services to meet the unique needs of local homeowners. For example, it can assist with siding, roofing, gutters and windows projects. Homeowners who are interested in learning more about the services provided by Texas Home Pro can request an appointment with a representative. The company can be reached at 832-220-4630.

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Texas Home Pro Announces New Hardieplank Services

A new dry cleaner is setting up shop in a vacant Westwood building on Broadway.

An application for the dry cleaner to move into the single-story building, formerly an auto supply shop, was approved by the Westwood Zoning Board on Dec. 2.

The project site is situated at 711 Broadway, on the east side of the street between Lake and Harold streets. According to documents filed in borough hall by the applicant, this area is in close proximity to the Pascack Brook and has a history of flooding incidents.

The building will be renovated in accordance with officials' goal to revitalize this area of the municipality. "The Master Plan discusses revitalization for this part of town..." noted Zoning Board Chairman William Martin. "We take that into consideration when we review applications for this area."

The project proposed a variance for insufficient parking, among others, but with the plot of land already zoned for retail, the dry cleaners did not require a use variance.

The project will include the installation of plate glass windows and the existing horizontal siding will be removed and stucco will be added as an exterior finish. The applicant is also addressing handicap accessibility issues.

First proposed nearly a year ago, with two uses, a dry cleaner and nail salon, the tenant with hopes of opening the salon dropped from the application after realizing there would not be enough parking spaces for even the salon's employees.

Email: spear@northjersey.com

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Westwood Zoning Board approves application for a dry cleaner

home section Interior Design Housekeeping Entertaining Home Improvement Gardening & Plants Landscaping eHow Home & Garden Home Repair & Maintenance Exterior Home Repair Tips for Cement Board Siding Installation

Michael Logan

Michael Logan is a writer, editor and web page designer. His professional background includes electrical, computer and test engineering, real estate investment, network engineering and management, programming and remodeling company owner. Logan has been writing professionally since he was first published in "Test & Measurement World" in 1989.

The introduction of fiber cement board siding brought a new, durable and long lasting siding product to market. Fiber cement board siding has a 30- to 50-year warranty if properly installed. Some products require painting, others do not. The installation techniques are similar to, but not the same as, those for regular wood lap siding products. In addition, each manufacturer has its own set of instructions for installation.

Enclose the house entirely in a building code approved house wrap that is impermeable to moisture. Snap chalk lines around the house to show the bottom of the first course on each side.

The siding must be nailed to the building's wall studs. Snap chalk lines marking the center of each stud, rather than trying to find them by measuring later.

Install the trim pieces around windows and doors, at the corners and along the eaves. Check the manufacturer's instruction sheet for the type and size fastener to use, as well as the method for seating the nails.

The preferred method is scoring with a carbide scoring knife and snapping the siding along the score line. Measure, mark and use a square to guide the scoring knife. Position the score line at the edge of the cutting table and snap the plank at the score line.

For some cuts, using a circular saw cannot be avoided, as when ripping a plank to fit. Use only a blade supplied by the manufacturer and in a saw with a vacuum and HEPA filter attached. Never cut cement board indoors with a saw. Always wear a dust mask and safety glasses, and position your cutting station downwind of other workers.

Manual, electric or pneumatic shears may also be used and are preferred over using a circular saw. This method generates fewer hazardous dust particles than cutting with a saw.

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Tips for Cement Board Siding Installation | eHow

Mediation on siding lawsuit fails to bear fruit, attorney says

Burlingame homeowners are preparing to take a construction defect lawsuit to trial, after the parties failed to come to terms through a mediation process.

Thats according to Front Range attorney Chris Rhody, who is representing the Burlingame Ranch Phase I Condominium Association, which filed the lawsuit in Pitkin County District Court in April 2012.

The suit alleges that siding and trim on the exterior of the multi-family buildings was improperly manufactured and installed when the 84-unit affordable housing project was built seven years ago. Homeowners fear that faulty materials and installation of the siding could result in long-term problems to their condos.

The suit names as defendants Shaw Construction, the general contractor; Certainteed Corp., the siding manufacturer; the city of Aspen, which backed the project financially and oversaw its completion; and the Aspen-Pitkin County Housing Authority, which manages the sale of the units.

After a mediation session held in Denver in May, it was agreed that the homeowners should come up with an estimate for what the repairs would cost, Rhody said. They spent the following months getting input from forensic engineers on the extent of the problem, and then took that information to contractors, who provided bids on the repair work, he said. The homeowners selected a bid and presented Shaw with a settlement demand in early November, including legal costs and fees for experts who worked on the project. The company responded with a counteroffer the homeowners deemed too low, Rhody said.

I can tell you it was a big difference, Rhody said, of the disparity between the HOAs settlement demand and Shaws counteroffer. He would not discuss the specific numbers being debated.

Shaw had made a similar offer right around the time the lawsuit was filed, Rhody said.

An attorney representing Shaw, as well as a project manager for the company, declined comment.

Rhody said the homeowners are now going through the legal process to move toward a trial. The first priority is to have a trial date set, and then begin the discovery phase. He wouldnt speculate when a trial date might be set.

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Burlingame lawsuit likely headed to trial