vernon, Author at Foreveratlast

Ensuring Quality In Your Residential Painting

Steps to Choose the Best Painter for Your House

Colours speak volumes about a person. More so when it’s for your house. Choosing the best colour code for your room or house is as important and painstaking as building the house itself. However, it’s not so tough either. It all starts with finding out the best painter or contractor for residential painting. In this article, we look at the ways in which you can choose the best painter for painting your house

Meet Multiple Contractors

The big hoarding of a smiling painter in your neighbourhood might not necessarily be the best for you. Try to call in at least three reputable contractors and allow them to inspect your house. The more time the contractor spends in moving around the house and briefing you, the better bonding your house will have with the painter. As an added advantage, you might gain some expert knowledge about painting a house and may act as a source of information for your friends and relatives.

Negotiate Early

Trust is important for getting a job done. But when trust overpowers, relationships sour. Often, contractors bid low to earn your trust, and midway to the project increases the turnaround time and cost. As a customer, you must make your expectations clear, and also responsibility in case of an exigency.

Acquaint Yourself with Paint Types

It’s true that an experienced contractor would ideally brief you with the best paint options, but, as a customer, knowing the basics of paint can make you stay one step ahead. Paint can be either latex or oil-based. Latex paint is washable and tends to last longer than oil-based paint. However, oil-based paint gives a brighter visual appeal to wooden textures. Polish or sheen is the next matter of consideration.

Get a Formal Contract Letter

An official contract letter saves you from unnecessary harassment in case anything goes wrong. A contract letter should clearly state the total cost, inclusions and exclusions in the paintwork, and all pertinent details of the contractor, like name, office and residence address, phone numbers, and license number. If possible, get a copy of the contractor’s insurance policy. It would save you from legal trouble in case a neighbour’s property gets damaged, or the painter gets hurt, due to an accident.

Choosing a Painter; Tips to Making The Best Choice!

Choosing a painter can be a real challenge. The right painter can make your home look spectacular, a bad painter can be a complete disaster. Before hiring any painter, I always suggest looking for a referral that you trust. Take the time to speak with friends, family, even your local paint store. While online reviews can be helpful, they can also be misleading, or even fake. Here are 5 important tips you definitely should know about before choosing any painter!

How to they prepare the house before painting begins?

Painters will have different ways of preparing the exterior of a home that they will be painting. Will they be sanding down the house? Do you need paint or can you use a stain? Most importantly, how to you protect those who live there, so that no one will be breathing in the dust from the paint that has been removed? In an older home there might be lead in that dust, I certainly don’t want anyone to be breathing that in. Ask your painters what they do to capture the airborne particles. Painting is primarily about changing the color of your home, but your safety is just as important!

Do they tidy up as they go?

When you are painting the interior, professional painters should be mindful of the fact they are in someone’s home. This applies even if you’ve temporarily vacated it for redecoration. As such, they ought to keep mess to a minimum before, during, and after the paint job. I have found the cleaner they are, the more they care about your home and the better the job is once it’s done!

Do they bill for work they have not done?

You may not have the time to supervise the painters’ comings and goings. This means you need to trust them to get to work and stay for the contracted hours. It is so important to see them at work, and to have a detailed list of the work to be done.

Are the paint cans labeled?

Always look to see if the paint cans are labeled. If the paint pots used are not labeled the painters might be using a different paint brand than what you contracted for. That could mean that the painters are using a cheaper line of paint. That’s fine if that is what you told them to do. But if you paid for premium paint or a specific brand, you’ll want to see it come out of the name brand paint can and onto your walls.

How to Choose A Good Painter

As a homeowner, you will probably repaint your home a few different times in the courser of owning it. So, how do you choose a good painter? Sure, you can ask your friends and neighbors to begin with. But, what if they do have one to recommend? Although many people simply pick a random name out of the phone book, your better of going to a website like SmartGuy.com, which lists thousands of local professionals many with ratings you can verify.

Make a plan. Make sure you know in advance exactly what you want to paint and what color. In order to keep your costs down, you want to do it right the first time. Also, when meeting with various painters, make it clear that you want several coats, as well as the type of paint you want to use. Like most materials, there are better quality paints, and cheaper paints that won’t last as long. Emphasize the need for proper preparation and make sure all of this is in the contract you sign.

Get a few estimates. Seek a written detailed estimate from each of the painting contractors. The estimate should include a summary of labor, material costs, the number of requested coats of primer and paint, the specific brand of materials, and details of the scope of job that is to be painter.

Verify references and past jobs. Get a list of past clients from each painter and call them to see how they did, how long it took them and if they experienced any problems working with the painter. You might want to even ask them for references of a few jobs they did five years earlier to see how they are holding up

Consider reviews. Before hiring the painter, look and see if they have a BBB rating or SmartGuy rating. You can also enter their company name followed by the words “rip off” or “scam” and see if anything comes up. You might also find some information on their company at your state’s Contractors License Reference Site.

Tips to Choose a Professional a Residential Painting Contractor

Many home owners like to spruce-up the look of their home every once in a while. One of the best ways to do this in a cost-effective manner, with the least amount of trouble is to get the interior and exterior walls of your home repainted. While you do this, it’s important you hire the services of a good Residential Painting contractor for the job. If you conduct an online search you will find there are a number of painting company listings.

So how do you pick one that will be able to provide you the kind of services you need? Here are some tips that will help you make the right choice:

Zero-in on the right company- As mentioned earlier, you will find a number of painting companies online. Make sure the professionals you hire handle residential projects. The kind of detailing and rendering required in residential painting jobs is intrinsically different from what is required in commercial projects. And hiring a contractor that has tackled house painting jobs means you get the kind of service you need.

All-round services- The Residential Painting contractor you opt for the job should be able to provide comprehensive services. It means they should meticulously power-wash all the glass doors and windows and these should also be masked while the walls are being painted. Simply put, they should handle every little aspect of interior and exterior painting

Type of paint- Today, the market is flooded with a variety of paint finishes and textures and it’s important that the company be able to provide you different options to choose from. They should also have a colour consultant who would be able to provide advice about which type of paint and colour would look good in your home. This consultation becomes a very important aspect of the job.

Exterior painting tasks- When you hire a Residential Painting contractor to get the indoor spaces of your home painted, you may also want them to paint the exterior walls, as well as features such as boundary walls etc. It’s best to check with the company whether they are able to handle all these jobs. The paint and techniques used in exterior painting is different from that used for indoor areas; and it’s important that the contractor you hire for the job, be able to tackle this expertly too. After all, you don’t want the paint job of the exterior of your home to look like it has been handled in a shoddy manner.

Other factors to take into account

It’s also important that you ask the Residential Painting contractor for references. Any contractor with a good portfolio of work and a strong reputation would be more than happy to provide this. Last but not the least; the services should be cost-effective and fit into your budget as well.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT PAINTING CONTRACTOR

There is something about spring and summer that compels us to start our home projects. Better weather means we get to do the projects we’ve been putting off for months and house painting is definitely one of them. Whether you are staging your house for it to be ready in the market, painting the baby nursery, repainting the walls to hide the nicks and dings that accumulated over the years or simply wanting to get a house revamp without hurting your pockets that much, a painting project should be done by a painting professional to make sure you get the result you are aiming for. How do you get started and how do you choose the right painting contractor for your project?

Based on Yelp, are about 236 painting contractors in Chicago alone. Choosing the right one is perhaps the most important and the most difficult part of any painting job.” Who do I call?”, “What company has the essential expertise that I need to get the job done?” These are the questions that will likely come up in search of THE painting contractor that will help you complete that painting project.

Plan Your Budget

Budget is one of the most predominant factor to consider before exploring your options of painting contractors in the area. What you decide on your budget will be determined by the quality of materials you want to use, the scale of the project as well as the amount of prep work that needs to be done.

Look for Feasible Options

There is no shortage of available resources for prospecting painting contractors. Yelp, Google, Angie’s List are just a few places to start looking for painting companies near your area. Prepare a list of painting companies you may potentially hire. No matter how cliche it is, it is still better to lay down the pros and cons of each company so you will know you are making the best choice. Ask yourself what is the most important factor that you would like to consider when hiring a contractor? Is it the price? The reputation of the company? Maybe even its proximity? Don’t make the common mistake of choosing the first company that shows up on Google search, do your own due diligence on researching different companies first

Ask the right questions

You’ve got your list of potential contractors, it’s time for you to interview them for the job. In this day and age, you can easily get in touch with them, be it by email, phone, or chat. Now, one of the reasons why clients like you end up dissatisfied with their contractor is because the right questions weren’t asked before they hired a contractor

What Makes My Circuit Breakers Keep Tripping

Selecting the Right Circuit Breaker

A circuit breaker, to most design engineers, is thought of as a low-cost commodity component that usually doesn’t get much attention when designing a new piece of equipment or system. In fact, on many occasions I have heard someone say, “It doesn’t matter; I just need a circuit breaker.” Yet a circuit breaker is an extremely important system component, and should not be handled in such a cavalier fashion. They are used to protect valuable equipment or devices from damage or more importantly they are used to prevent a life-threatening system disaster such as fire. It is important to take the time and make sure that the circuit breaker you are selecting is not only the right type for your application but it is also of high quality.

Today, there are many circuit breaker choices to fit virtually any industrial DIN rail application. However, even with so many choices available, selecting the proper circuit breaker can be an easy task

DIN rail circuit breakers are available in different package configurations ranging from a high-density space-saving size of 13mm per pole to 26mm per pole for a high-current type. Over the last few years, the price of a high quality circuit breaker has dropped below $10.00 per pole. This transition has allowed many more DIN rail mount circuit breakers to be used in place of fuses and fuse holders. In addition to being a cost savings, the circuit breaker is much more convenient; when a fuse blows, it has to be replaced by a new one; when a circuit breaker trips, it simply has to be reset.

Supplementary Protection

Supplementary circuit breakers, often referred to as UL1077 circuit breakers, are protectors that are typically used to provide protection to a device. Usually a branch UL489 circuit breaker is already installed up stream of the supplementary circuit breakers to protect the circuit wiring. Most supplementary circuit breakers are available in one, two and three poles with the option of short (B), medium (C) and long (D) trip curves. They typically can handle a minimum rating of 1A and a maximum amp rating of 63A. For convenience and ease of use the circuit breakers selected should have a reliable wire connection and have an on/off indicator to minimize troubleshooting time.

DC Protection

The DC circuit breakers are used in applications to provide protection where direct current or DC voltage is used. DC circuit breakers are available in both UL1077 and UL489 versions. Generally the DC circuit breakers are available in one or two poles with the short (B) or medium (C) trip curves. They are available with current ratings ranging from 1 to 63 Amps.

How to Determine Amperage of Circuit Breaker

Each circuit breaker has a specific rated amperage, or amount of current. When that amperage is exceeded, the circuit breaker shuts down the flow of current in that circuit to prevent damage to the wiring and appliances. Learn how to calculate the actual amperage of devices on the circuit and compare it to the rated amperage, so you can avoid unnecessary power interruptions and fire hazards.

Examine the electric panel. Each circuit breaker should have its amperage marked on the handle. This is the maximum amperage that the circuit can take before the circuit breaker trips

Multiply the amperage by 0.8. For everyday use, it’s a good idea to expose the breaker to a maximum of 80% of the rated amperage. It’s fine to exceed this for short periods of time, but continuous current above this amount could cause enough heat to trip the breaker

Understand double-pole breakers. Some high-voltage devices may be wired to a double-pole circuit breaker — two standard circuit breakers sharing a handle. Do not add together the amperage of the two breakers. Both circuits will be tripped simultaneously by the amperage displayed on one circuit breaker handle

Compare this to the current on the circuit. Now you know how much amperage your wiring and circuit breaker can handle. To find out whether your circuit exceeds this amperage, continue to the next method

Choosing the Right Circuit Breaker

Determine the Circuit Breaker Type

First, you need to determine whether you need a standard breaker, a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI), or an Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI).

Identify the Manufacturer and Brand of the Breaker and Panel

Not all circuit breakers are interchangeable. The panel label will list acceptable breakers, and if not (or if it’s too worn to read), check the other breakers or call in an expert. Older Westinghouse circuit breakers are quite different from modern Siemens circuit breakers, for example.

Check the Electrical Specifications

Next, you will need to find out a range of specs. If you are replacing an old breaker, you’ll find all the info you need on the unit itself

When you’re trying to determine amperage, but you do not have an old circuit breaker for comparison, you can use the wire gauge to guide your decision. You’ll find the gauge printed on the wire that will connect to the new breaker. The lower the gauge, the higher the breaker amperage. For example, a 10-gauge wire will need a 30-amp breaker, while a 14-gauge wire requires a 15-amp unit.

Confirm Any Special Requirements

For developers or contractors, you may need to fulfill certain special requirements for specific codes, localities, or client preferences. For example, you may need to use only new circuit breakers as opposed to reconditioned circuit breakers, you may need high vibration specifications for industrial facilities, or you may need to choose between a manual or automatic reset.

TIPS TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT CIRCUIT BREAKERS FOR YOUR HOME

A home electrical system is fitted with safety features such as circuit breakers, switching devices that are either automatically or manually controlled to protect your power system. If you do not have an electrical circuit breaker you are open to a high risk of electrical shocks, electrocution and electrical fires. Ask your local electrician on The Gold Coast to check your home electrical system to ensure it’s safe.

Main circuit breaker panel

Your electricity supply comes from your utility company and is fed through a meter to determine the amount of power you use and work out your power bill. It then goes to your breaker panel. Your electrician on the Gold Coast will help you chose the right size breaker panel to suit your home and the number of circuits you require.

Choosing the number of breaker switches required

You will need a breaker switch for every circuit of wiring around your home. Normally the different circuits are divided into areas and usage. There would be at least one internal lighting circuit and one external circuit.

Deciding on the amperage capacity of each circuit breaker

Most circuit breaker panels used in homes are rated to take 100 to 150 amps. The individual breaker switches are rated for the maximum amount of amperage they will be expected to handle at one time. Consult your electrician on The Gold Coast to determine the ratings required for each circuit or check each appliance. They will have a panel that gives their capacity and amp usage. It’s important to understand that often when some appliances start, they required much more power than when running. For example fridges, freezers, appliances with motors and even florescent lights use more power when starting to give an initial boost

Consider the types of breaker switches required

Single pole circuit breakers are normally used for lighting with ratings of between 10 to 20 amps. Double pole circuit breakers are used for water heaters and heavy duty appliances.

Selecting the Right Circuit Breaker and Its Type

A circuit breaker operates under fault conditions and isolates the faulty part of the circuit from the rest of it by breaking the circuit. This operation is performed automatically by employing a relay along with the circuit breaker.

It should be noted that circuit breakers may also be manually operated and can also be operated under normal conditions. Hence circuit breakers are also useful switching devices that are used to make or break a circuit in normal conditions.

Working Mechanism:

In a general sense, a circuit breaker consists of two electrodes or contacts that under normal conditions remain in contact with each other allowing current to flow. But in case of a fault, the contacts open or become disconnected hence breaking the circuit and preventing the fault current from passing through

Arc Phenomena:

Whenever a short circuit fault occurs, an extremely high current passes through the contacts of the circuit breakers. When these contacts start to open, the area of contact decreases and the current intensity increases rapidly. This causes the surrounding material to heat up rapidly and ionize. This ionized medium thus acts as a path for current to flow delaying the breaking of the circuit path.

Arc Extinction Methods:

This arc needs to be eliminated for the successful isolation and breaking of the circuit. Therefore, it is a major factor in determining the type and size of the circuit breaker to be used in different applications. For this purpose, we have two methods for arc extinction

Watch Out For Snakes

Home Remedies to Keep Snakes Away

Snakes – scaly, legless creatures that slither into your yard and sometimes even your home. While your first instinct may be to run the other way, there are several benefits to keeping them around. Snakes keep rodent populations under control, with a single snake able to eat 3 to 4 mice at one time. They also eat moles, voles, insects, and even fish.

When Do Snakes Come Out?

Snakes are more commonly encountered when temperatures average between 80 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit; usually during the spring and throughout the summer. They are most active in early morning and late afternoon, as summer temperatures are often too hot for them to be out in during the hottest times of day. Snake activity will pick back up again in late summer and early fall before they go into hibernation or brumation. Brumation is more common in southern states where the climate is warmer and snow is less likely. Snakes don’t actually sleep in brumation but rather their bodies adjust to the lower temperatures, slowing down their metabolism, and making them less active. On warm winter days, brumating snakes will sometimes come out to bask in the sunshine, often surprising unsuspecting people with their presence.

Eliminate Food Supplies

Snakes are often found in areas where rodents are present as this is one of their primary food sources. Snakes are also known to eat frogs, birds, moles, voles, insects, and even fish. If you have a problem with any of these animals, consider getting rid of that pest issue first. Once the source of food has been eliminated, snakes will move on in search of another source of food.

Eliminate Hiding Places

Snakes prefer dark, damp places and are known to live and hide in cracks, crevices, and holes. Eliminating these hiding places can help deter snakes from taking up residence on your property. Carefully inspect the exterior of your home and your property and repair any cracks or holes you find. Repair any damaged gutters, piping, and ventilation ducts. Repair or replace any damaged screens on windows and doors. Snakes will also hide in wood piles and compost heaps. If possible, store firewood in sealed, lockable wood boxes. Try to get rid of any piles of wood chip mulch, straw mulch, leaves, etc. that may be collecting on your property.

Change Up Your Landscaping

If your yard or garden is prone to snakes, consider making changes that will deter these pests from coming in. Garden regularly to remove any snake attractants like debris, holes, and overgrowth. Keep the grass cut short to eliminate hiding places for snakes. Consider installing snake-proof fencing made of steel mesh, plastic sheeting, or catch net. If you do install fencing, make sure it is flush with the ground and angled outward and that it is at least 3 feet high and 4 feet deep. You can also use materials that make it difficult for snakes to slither over like holly leaves, pine cones, egg shells, and gravel. You can also consider planting snake repellent plants that provide a natural deterrent. Some common examples include marigolds, lemongrass, and wormwood.

Way Snake Repellent

In most cases, snakes and homeowners do not mix well! Here at Priority Pest Services, we have a treatment for keeping snakes away. It is called Snake Away! One might ask, “Does that stuff really work?” The answer is yes, when properly applied by a pest control professional, indeed it does!

Snake away is a repellent product to help repel snakes away from your home. We put it in key locations flower beds or can broadcast throughout your yard or underneath your home. We can also set up a trapping service for snakes using various traps or whatever is deemed to be appropriate for that job. We trap and remove the snakes from the property.

How Does Snake-A-Way Work?

The Snake-A-Way is a granular product that contains ingredients that cause snakes to become unsure of their environment by affecting their nervous systems. Snakes use their tongue to test the air and surfaces around them. Then, they bring the tongue into the mouth and touch it to a special organ in the roof of the mouth that sends signals to the brain giving it information about its surroundings and any prey that may be near.

Snake-A-Way contains an ingredient that interferes with those signals to the snake’s brain, causing it to be uneasy and unsure of its surroundings and thus it goes somewhere else. When properly applied by a professional like those at Priority Pest Services (it does contain ingredients that need care in handling) it will keep the snakes away from your home, shed or yard.

Snakes

It is rare to encounter a snake problem in Trinidad. As shy creatures, if you see one, it is likely that they will simply be passing-by as quickly as possible. They tend to avoid contact with people so will steer clear of you and your pets.

Problems will need to be dealt with using very specific skills. If you have concerns regarding a snake issue, we would urge you to contact your local Zoo for specialist help and advice.

Snake Bites

There are hundreds of species of snakes around the world but only a low percentage of these are venomous. In Trinidad the only venomous native snake is the Adder also known as the Common Viper.

Types of Venomous Snake Bites

The recommended first aid for snake bites will also vary according to species. Treatment for a snake bite is defined according to whether the venom is cytotoxic, haemotoxic or neurotoxic and the wrong treatment will not only be of little or no help but could even be dangerous.

The Venom from Adders and Vipers is Cytotoxic

Generally two puncture marks at the site of the bite.

Bite causes instant pain, immediate swelling, bruising and blistering.

Symptoms include nausea and dizziness.

Immobilise the limb but don’t restrict the blood flow.

SNAKE RELOCATION

Although many snake species in Southern Africa can be harmless and generally avoid people, they may strike when threatened, causing painful bites to humans or animals. To the unsuspecting eye, it can be difficult to tell the difference between a venomous and non-venomous snake – making professional snake relocations the safest option if you find one or more on your property. When snakes in your backyard or on commercial grounds become a real problem, The Pest Control Specialists offers an effective snake relocation service to protect your property.

WHY CHOOSE OUR PROFESSIONAL SNAKE RELOCATION SERVICES?

We use expertly trained snake wranglers with all neccessary adn up-to-date permits to provide snake relocations programmes

Snakes are relocated to protected habitat areas

Snake relocation does not involve the use of any poisons, chemicals and does not harm the animal

All of the snake relacation service providers that we use are registered with the appropriate conservation departments

SAFE AND EFFECTIVE RELOCATIONS

Snake relocations are done in safe and environmentall manner with no harm on the animal

SNAKE AWARENESS TRAINING

Whether you own a private residence or manage a large commercial establishment, we can provide snake awareness training to you, your staff and family to ensure peaceful co-existence with our indigenous South African reptiles

HOW TO DISCOURAGE SNAKES FROM USING YOUR PROPERTY AS HARBOURAGE:

Mow your lawn regularly. Snakes like to hide in tall grass and weeds.

Seal cracks in your property’s foundation, patio or other areas that may invite snakes to seek warmth.

Compost piles offer a great hiding place for snakes as well as rodents and insects. Keep it contained and be sure to turn it regularly.

Remove any piles of debris and trim overgrown vegetation where snakes can hide

Store woodpiles or any other stacked materials off the ground.

Snake trapping

No one expects to see a snake slithering through their property, and chances are any snake inside your home is just as confused! While most snakes in Richmond and Northern Virginia are harmless, they still belong in the outdoors. Especially because one type of poisonous snake, the copperhead, is common in our region, it’s important to call a professional for snake trapping, removal, and exclusion services.

Common snakes in the area

Thankfully, most snakes in Richmond and Northern Virginia are typically harmless or non-poisonous. For the most part, the following types of snakes aren’t aggressive and do not seek to make contact with humans: eastern garter snake, rat snake, ring-necked snake, and northern black racer. The one snake residents need to worry about are copperheads, which are light brown in color and have triangular-shaped heads. If you notice this snake in or near your property, it’s time to call a professional snake removal expert.

Snake exterminator services

Snakes can be unpredictable and tricky to trap and remove. For this reason alone, it’s important to call a professional to help remove or exclude snakes from your property. Ehrlich Pest Control, formerly Connor’s provides exceptional snake trapping, removal, and exclusion services

How snakes get inside

Once inside, snakes are known to hide in small, dark spaces, such as behind appliances or in crawl spaces. Although they prefer to be outdoors, snakes may find themselves inside your home for a number of reasons:

They’ve tracked down rodents in or near your property.

They made their way through a small crack or gap beneath a door.

They were attracted to your shrubbery and tall grass, which provides hiding spots.

They were seeking warmth in colder temperatures.

Trapping & getting rid of snakes

No one wants to deal with a snake inside their property. While mostly harmless, they still strike fear in the heart of many people. Especially with the copperhead snake being so common in our region, it’s always best to contact a professional snake trapping company who can properly trap and remove the snake for you

Why Choose A Holistic Veterinarian

The Best Vet for Your Pet

As a pet owner, developing a trusting relationship with your veterinarian is an integral aspect of your dog or cat’s health. Just as we put a great deal of thought into choosing our own doctor, we want to have a competent and knowledgeable person whom we trust to care for our pets. Whether starting from scratch and adopting a new pet or simply moving to a new city or state, there comes a point when every pet owner has to choose a veterinarian. For some people, finding the perfect vet is as simple as searching the internet for the nearest office. For others, there are more factors to consider: the veterinarian, the support staff, cost of services and the location of the veterinary office, to name a few.

It’s up to you to weigh all the factors and decide which are most important to you. Perhaps you have a cat or dog who does not tolerate long car rides; therefore, finding a veterinary office that is close to home might take precedence. Many owners will be willing to travel a little farther for a veterinarian they like and trust will make good decisions for their pet. The friendliness of the staff and comfort level of the office are also important considerations. While it’s true that most pets don’t love going to see the veterinarian, you want to make sure to give your pet the most pleasant experience possible.

So how do you choose? Word of mouth is probably your best bet. Having a trusted friend or even an acquaintance that already has an established relationship with a veterinarian can go a long way. If you’re new to the area, visit a local dog park or pet store and ask other owners where they take their pets. You could end up with a great recommendation. If you’re moving, don’t feel shy about asking your current veterinary office for suggestions for a new clinic. I have had clients do this, and, quite often, I have old classmates in the area to whom I can refer them. At the very least, I can come up with a referral through another veterinarian friend.

What to Look for in a Veterinary Clinic

An ideal veterinary office should be clean, well-organized and comfortable. Every clinic has their share of hectic days, but, overall, the staff should conduct themselves in a friendly, helpful and professional manner. They should be attentive and willing to answer your questions and/or accommodate your pet’s needs

Evaluating a New Veterinarian

When evaluating a new veterinary clinic for the first time, take your pet in for a wellness exam, if possible. Assessing a new veterinary office can be much more difficult when dealing with the emotional stress of having a sick pet. Make sure to go prepared with your pet’s medical records, including a full history of his or her vaccinations and a summary of any past health issues. Most clinics, breeders or adoption agencies should be able to provide you with your pet’s pertinent history upon request. The more information you supply for your new veterinarian, the better equipped he or she will be to give recommendations regarding the best care for your pet.

Things to Consider When Choosing a Veterinarian

As pet parents, we take great joy in picking out the perfect collar and matching leash, the most comfy bed, and cutest dishes we can find for our pets. It goes without saying, taking the time to choose your pet’s veterinarian is one of the most important things you can do for your pet

What is their philosophy? Does it coincide with mine?

We believe that pets are truly a part of the family dynamic, and that the human animal bond is important. At The Drake Center, we aim to ensure that every human and animal who walks through our doors receives a one-of-a-kind veterinary experience. This unique level of service is based on a dedication to quality patient care called The Drake Center Difference.

How do the veterinarians and staff treat you and your pet? How many doctors are at the practice?

If you’re in the market for a place to take your pets for their medical needs, we encourage you to come in for a “happy visit” and simply meet our amazing staff.

Vet techs and assistants: Do they seem knowledgeable about and sensitive to animals?

We pride ourselves in staffing amazing vet techs, tech assistants, and receptionists. Many have been working at The Drake Center for over 15 years and have a genuine passion for animals. In addition, we strive to make you feel like you are a part of our family from the moment you walk in the door.

Is your veterinary hospital accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA)?

Did you know that only 12% of veterinary practices are accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association? AAHA holds animal hospitals to the highest level of care, requiring they pass a 900 point inspection.

How To Pick The Best Vet

I once got in a fight with a veterinarian while my dog, Sereno, lay in agony on an exam table. He had “bloated”—his stomach had twisted and filled with air. It was a deadly problem I’d seen many times as a vet tech, and I knew that if we didn’t release some of the air with a stomach tube or get him into surgery pronto, he was going to die.

I was on vacation in rural West Virginia and had just driven 45 miles at top speed looking for a vet. This was the first clinic I saw: tiny, with a broken screen door and a hand-painted sign that said veterinarian. Sereno looked like he’d swallowed a beach ball, and when I tapped his stomach, it made the telltale pinging sound of a bloated dog. But the vet suggested a blood test to rule out kidney failure. I asked her to take an X-ray. She did—I saw what looked like unequivocal bloat on the film, but she wasn’t sure.

That’s when I lost it. I’d helped pump countless dogs’ stomachs as a tech—it’s tricky and takes more than one person, but at that point I was desperate. “Can I just have a stomach tube?” I snapped. “I’ll do it myself.”

First, I asked myself, What do all good vets I know have in common? They didn’t stop learning after vet school—they did internships and took continuing education classes. Most work at clinics accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). So I searched online for AAHA hospitals. I visited each clinic’s website to look at its vets’ educational backgrounds: Multiple internships got bonus points; so did residencies. I also looked for the abbreviation ABVP after the vets’ names, because it means they did extra work to be certified by the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners. That narrowed my list of clinics from 170 to 3. Only then did I check what is often people’s first criterion: location.

I made appointments with each clinic, starting with the closest one. I planned to try all three. But then I walked into the first clinic and told the vet—as I always do—that I’m a pain because I’m a former vet tech who asks a lot of questions. He laughed, then spent 45 minutes examining my dogs and talking with me. He referred me to a board-certified dermatologist for my young dog’s allergies and mentioned a new treatment he wanted to try for a problem my older dog’s had for years. I went home and canceled my other appointments.

Choosing a vet

How do vet practices work?

Some veterinary practices operate with just one veterinary surgeon and one member of staff. Others may have 15 of more vets with a similar number of nursing and support staff.

Practices may operate on more than one site – the main practice being supported by 3 or more branch surgeries. The branch surgeries may have limited on-site facilities and equipment, but they allow you to see a vet without having to travel long distances.

Facilities do vary between practices. Some may have extensive equipment and facilities on-site, while others contract some services out to specialist firms or labs. Similarly, veterinary surgeons may refer unusual or complicated cases to veterinary surgeons who specialise in a particular species or discipline.

What is 24-hour cover?

Whatever the size of the premises, veterinary surgeons have to make sure that 24-hour emergency cover is available for their clients every day of the week.

They can do this in several ways; a practice may provide this themselves, or some practices get together locally to provide this service, which may mean that you have to travel to a different practice in a emergency

How to Choose a Good Vet

Veterinary care is mandatory in your pet’s life. Whether it’s a cat, a dog, a parrot, rabbit, or an iguana. From the moment a new family member of any species arrives home, we should give them all the conditions they need to live happily beside us. Periodic visits to the vet are one of the key points of any animal’s health.

Each species requires specific care that can include de-worming, vaccinations or only periodic visits as preventative measures to ensure that all is well. Many carers only take their pet to the vet when the animal becomes sick. Don’t make this mistake. Even before adopting an animal you should look for a veterinarian

Legalization of the clinic

This is undoubtedly point number 1. Unfortunately, there are many ‘fake vets”and clinics that are not legalized. The role of Justice is to detect these cases of fraud but all carers should be aware and conscious that these cases exist and may be closer than you think.

Only a veterinary doctor that has had the required training and practice needed can perform medical acts with animals. Don’t take your dog to be vaccinated by the worker of the Pet shop, nor to your neighbor to get “cheap shots”. Cheap ends up being expensive and your animal’s health is priceless!

Location

The question of the location of the clinic or veterinary hospital is relative. Ideally, a clinic near your home is the most indicated to avoid the stress of travelling with the animal and the time it takes to get to the clinic in case of emergency. However, driving a few extra miles may be worth it to receive better services. You will always have to assess the pros and cons.

The Best Advice On Truck Tires Chains

What Unbalanced Tires Can Do To Your Car

There’s a reason tire shops insist on balancing the tires when you put a new set on your car – unbalanced tires are not safe to drive and they cause many problems with the tires and your vehicle. These include:

Too much vibration. Driving a car involves a certain amount of vibration, especially on poorly maintained roads. However, when all four tires are properly balanced, it minimizes the amount of vibration, making the drive smooth and the steering easy. When your tires get out of balance, the vibration increases throughout the vehicle. If the tires are old and worn out, with very little tread remaining, the vibration will get even worse. In addition to producing an uncomfortable ride, the vibration can make it harder to steer and control the car, causing it to be unsafe to drive at high speeds and in wet road conditions.

Uneven tread wear. One advantage of having balanced tires is the tread wears down evenly (as long as you keep them properly inflated) so that all four tires are in the same condition. This extends the life of your tires and produces a smoother, safer ride. When tires get out of balance, it can cause certain areas of the tire to wear down quicker than they should. The vibration from the lack of balance combined with uneven tread wear makes it harder to steer properly, and can increase the risk of sudden blowouts. Tires that are out of balance can even cause extra wear on the tire sidewalls, which also increases the risk of having a sudden blowout or the tire coming apart at high speeds.

Long-term damage to your car. It’s bad enough that unbalanced tires can wear out quicker and make it unsafe to drive. To make it worse, they can also cause damage to other parts of your vehicle. For example, driving with tires that aren’t properly balanced puts undue stress on your shocks, bearings, and wheel assembly. This causes these important parts to wear out sooner than expected or even fail while driving. Balancing your tires allows them to spin without any interference, resulting in a smoother, safer ride that prevents excess wear and tear on wheel assembly components.

Increased fuel costs. Driving on tires out of balance can also damage your bank account by causing your engine to use more gas. The faster you drive, the more out-of-balance tires will affect driving performance, further decreasing your fuel efficiency. Under-inflated tires will also reduce fuel efficiency. So if your tires are properly inflated but your gas mileage is declining, it’s a good idea to take your car to the tire shop to see if the tires are out of balance.

Fortunately, balancing tires doesn’t involve a complex process. Technicians look for damage and foreign materials in the tire and wheel assemblies. Then they properly seat the wheels on the hubs, and tighten the lug nuts. Tire stores usually charge a balancing fee when you purchase a new set of tires. But, thereafter, many will rebalance them for free. It also helps to rotate your tires every six months, as this will enhance balanced handling and enable the tread to wear evenly.

UNDERSTANDING TIRE PRESSURE AND LOAD LIMITS

Tire inflation pressure is the level of air in the tire that provides it with load-carrying capacity and affects the overall performance of the vehicle. The tire inflation pressure is a number that indicates the amount of air pressure– measured in pounds per square inch (psi)–a tire requires to be properly inflated. (You will also find this number on the vehicle information placard expressed in kilopascals (kPa), which is the metric measure used internationally.)

Manufacturers of passenger vehicles and light trucks determine this number based on the vehicle’s design load limit, that is, the greatest amount of weight a vehicle can safely carry and the vehicle’s tire size.The proper tire pressure for your vehicle is referred to as the “recommended cold inflation pressure.” (As you will read below, it is difficult to obtain the recommended tire pressure if your tires are not cold.)

Because tires are designed to be used on more than one type of vehicle, tire manufacturers list the “maximum permissible inflation pressure” on the tire sidewall. This number is the greatest amount of air pressure that should ever be put in the tire under normal driving conditions.

Avoiding a Blowout

Double check tire pressure early and often. When it comes to blown tires, prevention is the best survival strategy. The vast majority of blowouts are caused by improper tire pressure. In the United States, cars sold after 2007 are required to be equipped with an electronic tire pressure monitoring system that alerts you when your air pressure fluctuates above or below safe levels. If you have an older car, you’ll have to do the monitoring yourself.

Check your tire pressure before any long trips (find out your vehicle’s recommended tire pressure with this helpful online tire pressure tool). This is especially important in the summer, when the temperature of the pavement can rise to 140 degrees and cause your tire pressure to rise to bursting levels. If your tires feel “off” or you have a tire pressure warning light on, head to your local Firestone Complete Auto Care location to take advantage of a total tire checkup and repair service. Having your tires examined at the first sign of trouble is the best way to avoid a blowout altogether.

Don’t drive on old, worn tires. If the tread on your tires is worn down or if there are any cracks in the rubber, you could be doing some serious damage to your ride and your rims. Driving on worn tires in the heat of summer is asking for trouble, plain and simple. If checking your tires isn’t something you think you’ll do often, (because hey, we’re all busy) you may want to choose a set of tires that does the work for you. Some tires, like DriveGuard tires, are uniquely engineered with a high tech cooling system that evenly distributes heat to help maintain safe tire pressure and prevent a blowout, even in extreme conditions.

Symptoms of a Bad Alignment

We rely on our vehicles to get us from place to place every day, and safety should be all drivers’ number one priority. That’s why it is important to pay close attention to your car and be careful not to ignore even the slightest hiccup or malfunction that occurs while driving. Let’s take a look at the warning signs to look out for that could mean your wheel alignment is bad.

Your Steering Wheel Vibrates

If your steering wheel constantly vibrates when you are driving, this is a common sign that your vehicle needs an alignment. Driving on uneven terrain or over a pothole can easily cause misalignment. Steering wheel vibration, however, can be the cause of a number of vehicle issues besides misalignment, so it’s best to visit an auto repair shop when you notice this symptom.

Your Car Drifts to the Side

If you’re ever on a straight road with little or no traffic and you take your hands off the steering wheel even for just a moment, the car should continue along the road and guide itself straight. If the car swerves to one side or the other when you lift your hands off of the wheel, a bad wheel alignment could certainly be the cause.

Your Steering Wheel Feels Off Balance

When you’re driving straight, your steering wheel should be perfectly centered. If you notice that your have to turn the wheel slightly to one side or the other in order to drive in a perfectly straight line, it’s very likely that your wheels need realigned. Your car’s emblem on the steering wheel should always be centered when you are driving straight – if it’s not, it’s time to take your vehicle in to the local auto repair shop.

Your Tire Wear is Uneven

Giving your tires a visual inspection every once in a while is good practice if you want to be a safe driver. The tread should be the same on all tires, front and back. If you notice tread on one or two tires is worn down more than others, an alignment may be necessary. To check tire tread, take a coin, like a nickel or quarter, and visually measure to what point on the coin the tread goes up to. A properly aligned vehicle will have all 4 tires with the same amount or depth of tread.

What to do if You Experience a Blowout on the Highway

If your tire blows out on the highway when you’re traveling at high speeds, there are important tips to keep in mind so you know what to do when your tire blows out. When your tire blows out on the highway, here is what you need to do:

Grip steering wheel firmly and do not slam on brakes.
Let your car slow down gradually by taking your foot off the gas pedal.
Let your car roll toward the berm or an exit. Do Not Stop in Traffic.
Brake lightly once off the road until you come to a stop.
Turn on your emergency flashers.
Stand a safe distance from your vehicle while waiting for help to arrive.

It can be a scary and gut-wrenching situation when you’re cruising down the highway and experience a tire blowout. Use these tips to learn what to do when your tire blows out, and how to avoid a flat tire through proper maintenance.

Payroll Service Outsourcing

Hiring a Payroll Services Vendor – Does it Make Sense For Your Business?

Outsourcing specific commercial tasks can enable you to free up resources and energy to focus on your core competencies. Payroll is an important function and in all likelihood it makes sense to outsource payroll administration rather than hire resources in-house and dedicate them solely to the function.

Payroll companies help you to organize your payroll, adhere to policies and procedures, and get employees paid on time. To stay on top of your tax obligations is the main reason for your business to consider using a payroll provider. You can locate accupaysystems that can do excellent payroll processing at very affordable rate.

Payroll administration permits attention to detail and even the smallest indiscretion can attract heavy penalties from the tax authority of your country. In the US, the IRS has a history of levying heavy fines on small businesses for even the smallest transgression.

Recently released statistics show that one out of every three small businesses is penalized in some way for not complying with tax laws.

If your company is large enough, you may choose to conduct payroll functions in-house but be prepared to hire at least a couple of workers dedicated to this function. You will also have to allocate resources to continuously train your payroll staff in use of accounting software and to keep up with the frequently shifting state and federal tax laws. Also if you are a growing company that is continuously adding new employees, teams and locations, managing payroll is going to be quite a challenge.

How Payroll Systems Work

A payroll service is an outside company that specializes in every aspect of the payroll process. The first such service in the United States, Automated Payrolls, was founded in 1949 and relied on primitive technology like electro-mechanical calculators and something called the Comptometer bookkeeping machine . Automated Payrolls grew to become Automated Data Processing (ADP), one of the largest business outsourcing services in the world.

A basic payroll service will collect wage and hour information from the employer and use that information to calculate gross wages, subtract all pertinent withholdings and deductions, print checks, make direct deposits and prepare all employment tax filings. The service will also mail out W-2 and 1099 forms and resolve any inquiries from the IRS or other government agency.

Some payroll services offer more comprehensive help. They can take over some of the responsibilities typically handled internally by human resources, like administrating a company’s retirement accounts and benefits programs. They can file new employee forms with the state and help comply with any court-ordered wage garnishment programs. Some payroll services even offer a free phone help line for any questions related to human resources or payroll.

The Internet has made payroll services even more convenient. In the past, an employer had to call the payroll service with information about wages and hours for the upcoming paychecks. Now the employer is provided with a Web-based payroll account that he can update 24/7. All he has to do is log on to the system, punch in the hours for the pay period and the data is updated in real time. Payroll services keep record of all payroll information and make all of this data available online through reports, payment histories and other features.

Pay-as-you-go payroll prices

A pay-as-you-go payroll service model is the perfect solution for any business that encounters huge peaks and troughs in the size of their labour force, affording all the benefits of a fully managed service without the need to tie yourself into a long-term contract.

Obviously this means that you will have to pay towards the upper end of the fully managed service scale with no discounts for more substantial numbers, as your provider will be seeking some kind of recompense for the absence of security that comes from guaranteed income. However, the flexibility provided by a pay-as-you-go model can be essential as staff and come and go.

If you own a construction business, for example, and need to expand your workforce by a third for a set number of months while a particular project is completed, this is a way of ensuring that you and your staff are legally covered in terms of payment throughout the duration of the work.

An alternative use of the pay-as-you-go model of payroll management is to cover a permanent in-house staff member who is unable to perform the task for a set period of time – a fixed recovery time from a bout of ill-health, for example, or maternity leave.

Your employees will still expect to be paid in a timely and accurate fashion during this period, and HMRC are not renowned for their patience and sympathy in dealing with financial inaccuracies caused by unforeseen personal circumstances.

How to process payroll with a payroll service:

Just like with the DIY option above, you need to have all your employees complete a Form W-4 and find or register for Employer Identification Numbers.

From there:

Step 1: Choose a full-service payroll provider. If you’re not sure how to do payroll yourself, use payroll software that reduces the risk of errors or fines. Many payroll processing services, like Square Payroll, handle your payroll taxes, filings, new hire reporting for you, and allow you to complete payroll online. Sign up takes minutes — so you can quickly start doing your own payroll the same day you sign up.

Step 2: Add your employees. You need to set up your employees before you process their payroll. Adding employees you’re paying for the first time is generally quicker; if you’re switching to a new payroll provider, then you also need to add your current employees’ year-to-date payroll information. Either way, you generally need to enter employee names, addresses, Social Security numbers, and tax withholding information. If you’re using Square Payroll and would like to pay employees using direct deposit, you can just enter your employees’ names and email addresses so they can enter their personal information themselves.

Step 3: Track hours worked and import them. The U.S. Department of Labor requires employers to keep track of wage records such as timecards for up to two years. Certain states may have longer retention requirements; be sure to check the specific requirements in your state. You can track time using your Square Point of Sale and import the timecards to payroll.

Step 4: Process your first payroll run. Click Send and you’re done!

Step 5: Keep track of your tax payments and filings. The IRS requires tax forms to be kept for three years. Certain states may have longer retention requirements; be sure to check the specific requirements in your state. With Square Payroll, you can find copies of your tax filings in your dashboard.

The Pros of Outsourced Payroll

“If you have one employee, get a payroll service” is advice financial expert Rhonda Abrams gave readers of “Inc.” magazine in 2010. As much as outsourcing this necessary aspect of running a business is tempting, it comes with risks. Before handing over the responsibility for the paychecks to an outside service, weigh the pros and cons

Pro: It’s a Time Saver

Outsourcing payroll saves a business time it would otherwise spend calculating pay and deductions and remitting checks to employees and taxation authorities. The printing costs of pay stubs might also be reduced. Some payroll companies offer a clock in/out function for employees, so you also save time calculating how many hours are owed each pay period. A company also provides services such as direct deposit and online pay stubs to further ease the payroll burden.

Pro: It Calculates Taxes Accurately

Small business owners know the deductions involved with employee payroll can be complicated, state and federal taxes among them. A payroll company often is better equipped to calculate these deductions accurately and consistently. The company also ensures taxes are paid on time. The IRS frequently penalizes business owners for errors in payroll-related taxes; one out of three is affected, according to “Inc.” magazine. The fines levied can cost more than the amount of the error.

Advice On Tile Flooring Choices For Your Next Home Remodel

THE BUYER’S GUIDE TO SELECTING THE BEST TILES FOR YOUR HOME

Why choose tiles?

Tiles are one of the most popular flooring solutions used these days. In addition to being strong and durable, they also give your home a classy look. Easy to maintain and clean, they come in a wide variety of colours and designs that easily blend in with the décor of your house.

Ceramic tiles

are available in glazed (polished) and unglazed varieties. Glazed ceramic tiles are either plain or decorated and are used on floors and walls.

Cement/concrete tiles

are extremely durable and strong, making them perfect for driveways and exterior floors. Since they don’t have a smooth finish they offer a good grip even when wet

Terracotta tiles

are made from natural clay. They are extremely durable and water resistant. They are glazed for variation in colour and extra durability. They are suitable for floors and walls and, although they are generally preferred in the living room, they are also used for the roof.

Mosaic tiles

are small tiles made from porcelain, natural stone, glass or ceramic. They come in glazed or unglazed versions and are a great way to add colour to your room without making it look fuzzy. They are generally installed in kitchens and bathrooms.

tips for selecting tiles

If you would like to make an informed decision when it comes to selecting tiles for your space, here are a few tips to help you.

With the plethora of options available in the market, it’s a challenge to choose the right tile for the right space. Popular tile brands in the market include Somany Ceramics, Kajaria Tiles, Nitco, Johnson Tiles, and Asian Granito. Each of these has thousands of options in various categories for both wall and floor tiles. There are vitrified tiles, ceramic tiles, porcelain tiles, cement tiles, quartz, stone and even glass tiles available, making decision making a huge challenge

Down to the basics

The first step is deciding what kind of tile you need. For flooring, Vitrified tiles are the best bet since they are durable and can withstand heavy traffic. For walls, you can choose either ceramic or porcelain tiles as they are non-porous or do not absorb stains. For outdoors it’s best to opt for either matt finish or anti-skid tiles to avoid slips.

Size-it-up

Tiles these days are available in a wide range of sizes. Some popular sizes for floors include 300×600 mm, 600×600 mm, 610×610 mm and 800×800 mm, while wall tiles generally come in sizes of 250x350mm, 300x450mm, and 300x600mm. According to experts, large format tiles lend a more spacious look to space. However, it is advised to match tiles to room size. If the room is small, and you use large size tiles on the floor, then the room will look even smaller. For such a room, it is recommended to go for medium format size tiles like 250×350 mm. Also, it’s a good idea to opt for the size that entails a minimal amount of cutting and wastage. Example: If you have a room that is 6×5 ft, then pick a tile that is a multiple of the size of the room

Choose the right finish

With digital printing, it is now possible to recreate any pattern on a tile. However, the pattern and design should not be the only deciding factor. It’s important to identify the right finish as well. Glossy tiles look great on walls, while stone finish tiles are ideal for exteriors. For bedrooms, wood finishes are recommended since they lend a warm feel while for bathroom and kitchen walls one can experiment with metallics and mosaics in combination with plain tiles. For living rooms, natural finishes and designs are recommended while for restaurants its advised to look for anti-skid, high resistance vitrified tiles with a pattern or a design that suits the déco

The right colour

For flooring, it is usually advisable to opt for light colours to create an intimate look indoors. For outdoors one can experiment with darker colours. Light colours make the room look more spacious and airy while dark colours are easier to maintain.

FIND YOUR PERFECT TILE

With so many choices, finding the perfect tile may seem overwhelming. Your best resource are the professional interior designers at our Premier Dealers and showrooms. (And consultations are free!) But to get started, we have gathered basic information to help narrow the options.

SELECTING FLOOR TILE

Explore the different types of tile, variety of applications, and detailed information needed to make your best floor tile choice.

SELECTING WALL TILE

From large scale to mosaic and all the different options, delve into expert advice for selecting the ideal wall tile.

RESIDENTIAL SPACES

There are a few things you should be aware of before selecting tile for your home. For instance, as a rule, glazed floor tiles shouldn’t be used where water, oil or grease is consistently present. This may cause increased risk for slippage. Daltile also does not recommend glazed floor tiles on home exterior applications unless tiles are sufficiently protected from direct weather or are a textured tile

COMMERCIAL SPACES

Commercial spaces come with a slew of construction requirements. Selecting tile that meets these requirements is easy at Daltile. We test our tile for DCOF, breaking strength, and more, and we provide the results to you so you can make the best decisions. We always meet, and often exceed, ASTM standards but we encourage customers to have tile independently tested to determine if the product meets specific requirements.

All About Tile Flooring: Choosing the Best Type

Stain-Resistant Porcelain

“Porcelain is always a more popular choice than natural stone for the kitchen because it’s impervious to spills,” says James Brooks, owner of Floor Coverings International. When it comes to color and style, James considers the cabinets and countertops. “Look for a neutral tile without high shade variation to tie everything in the room together.” And to be safe, pick a grout color a shade or two darker than you think you want — it will hide inevitable stains better.

Durable Slate-Look Porcelain

“A laundry room or mudroom is going to get knocked around, so you want something strong,” says Joseph Jovinelli, VP at FLOORMAX. But homeowners also want to keep things casual or rustic in there, too. The solution is slate-look porcelain, which, he says “looks almost indistinguishable” from natural stone, but is impervious to moisture. Given the vibration of the washing machine and dryer, Joseph says that extra care and attention need to be given to preparation and installation.

Small Mosaic Tiles

A small room means using small tile, says Joseph, who points to mosaics as the hot trend in bathrooms right now. Tiles of one inch and smaller are much easier to install in a small room compared to a large one, even coming as they do on 12″ x 12″ sheets. In addition to their spectacular appearance, mosaics are a practical choice in moisture-prone baths because smaller tiles mean more grout lines and traction.

Vinyl Tile

The additional weight of tile flooring can become a structural issue in some areas of the home, explains Joseph, but that is definitely not the case in the basement, which has the most stable subsurface of the entire structure. That gives a homeowner the freedom to choose large, heavy tiles that may not work elsewhere.

Oversized Travertine Tile

While not common in bedrooms on a top floor due to load, noise and instability of subfloor, tile is a popular choice for ranch-style homes in the hot Southwest, says James. “Throughout the Southwest, you see really beautiful travertine or natural stone flooring throughout the house, including the bedrooms,” he says. “Natural stone has a cooler feel under foot.” And in climates that experience some seasonal chill, stone works great with radiant heating because it maintains and distributes the heat better than wood.

Choosing the Right Tile

Not all tiles are created equal. Well, they’re basically the same, but there are many small differences to consider when deciding the application intended.

Tiles are a combination of clay, minerals and solvents that are shaped and sized and then heated to very high temperatures. At this point, the tile can just stay as is and is considered finished. It’s unglazed and without decoration. Without the glaze, the tile is very porous and, though attractive in a rustic way, it wouldn’t be wise to use it at this stage in areas where spillage might be common, like the kitchen.

Glazing adds a non-porous element that’s usually impermeable and therefore good for all areas, including kitchens and baths, foyers and countertops. A good idea is to take this one step further and seal the grout around the tile so that it’s also waterproof.

Besides being beautiful, ceramic tile is a desirable surface. Let me count the ways: It’s strong, colorfast, and flame-resistant, it doesn’t conduct heat or electricity, it’s hygienic, it won’t absorb odors or emit hazardous chemicals, it won’t swell or contract in extreme temperatures, and it’s easy to clean

Where do these tiles come from? All around the world. Is tile from Spain better than tile from France? No, the only real differences are in design and perhaps shape.

Opting For A Corner Kitchen Sink

How do you choose the right sink?

The sink together with the tap is the most used area in the kitchen. That is why the choice should be made with thought to match your personal needs. Stala has a wide selection of sinks and worktops to offer alternatives for all tastes and purposes. But which things should be paid attention to when designig a kitchen?

Do you handle large plates and kitchen equipment and prefer to wash dishes by hand?

“If you often wash dishes by hand and handle large dishes and kitchen utensils, it is going to affect the size of the bowl and even the number of bowls you need. For others, a small sink will be sufficient, while others might need a maxi-sized sink to even fit whole baking trays”, Peltonen describes.

At the summer cottage or when dishwashing by hand it is convenient to have two bowls, while those who cook a lot can appreciate a one and a half bowl sink. If you like to bake or cook with meat and fish, a kitchen worktop with plenty of hygienic stainless steel working surface is a convenient and safe choice. A worktop can be chosen with a raised edge profile, which keeps water on the counter instead of flowing onto the floor.

What to consider while choosing a counter top material and sink?

When you have identified your kitchen needs and habits, it is sensible to also consider the other countertop material for the kitchen. With sinks, our materials stainless steel and quartz composite are both durable and long-lasting choices for a kitchen. Your own taste is best to be used with the choice of these two.

If you choose a laminate or wood countertop material, a sink with a tap area would be the best choice, since mounting the tap straight onto wood or laminate can create risk with moisture. It is also worthwhile to have at least some stainless steel drainage area or working surface next to the bowl, since wood is not the best material to withstand splatters of water and setting wet dishes on.

Kitchen Sinks: How to Choose the Best Style for Your Needs

However, with so many styles to choose from, are homeowners choosing style over function? How can you determine which type of kitchen sink is best for your needs? Freshome asked experts from Kohler, Moen, Delta and Franke Kitchen Systems for tips on understanding the function of various kitchen sink styles.

The aesthetic appeal of the kitchen sink

“With the evolving role of the kitchen leading to tasks beyond traditional cooking and cleaning, people are often selecting more secondary sinks,” explains Peggy Gallagher, Senior Product Manager at Delta. When choosing the right sink, Gallagher tells Freshome that there are several factors to consider, but she believes style is the main driver.

“The sink is the workhorse of the kitchen,” according to Chris Nealon, Product Manager of Disposals and Sinks at Moen. “From making morning coffee to scrubbing dishes at night, not to mention all of the hand washing, cup filling and cleaning that goes on in between, the faucet and sink area see a lot of traffic every day.” With so much going on, Nealon tells Freshome that it’s important to find a kitchen sink that fits homeowners’ needs while still providing an appealing aesthetic.

Kitchen sink styles

“Large, single-bowl designs are convenient for washing oversize cookware, while dual-bowl sinks allow for quick wash-ups and offer multi-tasking functionality for the home chef,” Nealon says.

“Regarding design, undermount sinks offer an appealing aesthetic, make cleanup a breeze and are the ideal complement to popular natural stone and solid surface countertops,” Nealon explains. “The exposed front wall of farmhouse sinks complements traditional kitchens well, whereas drop-in sinks offer added convenience with a quick and easy installation process,” he says.

Choosing a Kitchen Sink: Things You Need to Know

Do you know the hidden benefits (and pitfalls) of choosing a single bowl or a double bowl? Do you know your farmhouse from your under-mount (or the difference between the two)? Or which finish has the final say in quality? We got to the bottom of the bowl to give you everything you need to know on sinks.

The trifecta of style: There are three main bowl styles: farmhouse, top-mount, and under-mount.

Farmhouse bowls: While great for accommodating large dishware and minimizing splashing, these are heavier and may require a special base cabinet for installation.

Top-mount bowls: These are characterized by the “drop-in” rim that holds the sink in place on the countertop. The rim makes this type of sink easy to install, but also makes it easier for dirt to accumulate.

Under-mount sinks: They look more sleek and modern, but often take double the installation time compared with top-mount sinks.

How to Choose a Kitchen Sink

Few of us today find ourselves chained to our kitchen sinks, washing up the dishes (thanks to our dishwashers), and yet the sink still plays a vital role within the modern-day kitchen. Thinking about how you use a sink on a daily basis – and perhaps how sinks in previous homes have met or failed to meet your needs – is a good place to start when thinking about buying new. But the aesthetic a sink brings to the kitchen interior scheme is also a priority — the sink is after all a feature in its own right.

Size and bowl configuration are among the first considerations.

If a sink is used very sparingly for tasks such as washing up, a single bowl (or ‘1.0’) may suffice. Single bowls are a good option for utility and/or boot rooms, and for kitchens short on surface space.

Many homeowners opt for 1.5 bowls and even two, which provide greater flexibility when it comes to tasks such as tipping away excess drinks whilst washing up, or for peeling vegetables.

Fitting the sink

Do look at a product’s ‘minimum cabinet size’ whilst specifying too. “Most sinks will fit within a 600mm cabinet, but it’s always worth checking as some sinks may require a larger cabinet size, even as large as 1,000mm,” says Rangemaster’s Paul Scarborough. This is particularly key when retrofitting a new sink where the units and worktop will remain.

Tap holes

Bear in mind that some inset models may come complete with one or more pre-drilled holes to accommodate a tap — ideal if you don’t have clearance or wall space behind to mount a tap, but far from perfect when the circular hole won’t accommodate your new square tap

Undercoating

Look to see if your chosen model comes with an undercoating, which is applied to a sink’s underside. “A good undercoat provides great sound insulation and will therefore prevent your sink from making too much noise when washing bulky items such as pots and pans. It can also prevent condensation build-up on the base of the sink,” explains Luke Shipway of Caple.

How to Choose the Right Stainless-Steel Kitchen Sink

Stainless steel scores plenty of brownie points for being an exceptional material for kitchen sinks. There are many different sink styles and materials available today and stainless steel is by far the most popular and common. If stainless steel is your material of choice for your new kitchen sink, then there are a few things you will need to consider that will help to narrow down your choices in shape, size and style

What is stainless steel?

Stainless steel is an alloy (or mix) of steel, chromium and nickel. Two details to look out for when selecting a good quality stainless-steel sink are the grade and the gauge of the stainless steel. The higher the percentage of chromium and nickel elements, the better the grade of stainless steel.

Why choose stainless steel?

Stainless steel is the most common choice for kitchen sinks and with good reason. It’s a very durable material, which is easy to clean and requires very little upkeep.

Type: Top-mount sink

When you are choosing a stainless-steel sink for your new kitchen, the two most common installation options that you will be offered are under-mount and top-mount.

A top-mount sink, also referred to as an inset sink, is the more cost-effective option, both in terms of retail cost and the cost associated with installation. The outer rim of the sink sits on top of the bench, such as the one pictured here. These sinks usually have a stainless-steel drainer board attached, although you can choose to have one without.

Home Electrical Safety Inspection For Homes And Small Businesses

Electrical Safety Inspection: The Ultimate Guide to Passing

Due to the fact that electricity is such a constant part of our daily lives, it’s easy to take it for granted. It feels comparable to the sun shining over our heads or the moon coming out at night. Many tend to adopt the same attitude towards electricity as they do towards the sun and moon: “It’ll take care of itself”. After all who ever heard of a sun technician?

But having that sort of attitude to electricity can be dangerous, even fatal. Every year, thousands of people are fatally injured and suffer damage worth billions because of a lack of electrical safety knowledge. According to Electrical Safety Foundation International, electrical outlets and receptacles alone account for more than 5,300 home fires, over 100 injuries and at least 40 deaths every single year.

What’s the point of an electrical safety inspection anyway?

Having an electrical safety inspection done on your home might seem like a bother but try not to see it that way! Ensuring that the electrical safety inspection is conducted periodically and properly is extremely vital for your family and property.

Protect your property

Electrical surges are a common phenomenon in much of the United States. They can not only ruin your appliances but also create short circuits in your house, leading to fire that can cause severe property damage.

Someone could get hurt

Electrical wiring does not last forever. Due to wear and tear, it deteriorates along with its associated accessories. This deterioration can lead to nasty experiences such as electric shock or fire

Top Tips for Home Buyers

Make sure you know what you can afford – Speak to the bank first. It’s easy to get carried away looking for that dream property but make sure you can afford it first by getting an ‘Agreement in Principle’ from your bank

Check out the neighbourhood – Make sure you investigate where you are buying thoroughly, you can find out crime levels to school results simply by punching in the postcode but nothing beats visiting the neighbourhood on foot to get a feel for the area

Budget, budget, budget – there are lots of additional costs a first time buyer might not be aware of such as legal fees, stamp duty, surveys and other technical reports such as an Electrical Installation Condition Report. Don’t get tripped up by not being prepared

Don’t be fooled by staging – Cleverly placed mirrors, strategic lighting, manicured gardens and fresh paint are all ways sellers are able to make their home seem more appealing

The devil is in the detail – When viewing a property, make sure you check for any obvious issues such as damp, mould or cracks in the walls but don’t overlook potential hidden dangers like old or faulty wiring which can be dangerous and expensive to repair. Download Electrical Safety First’s ‘Home electrical safety check’ app to help you identify any visible electrical issues

Professional Electrical Safety Inspections Done Right

To avoid electrical related accidents, it’s always best to undergo electrical safety inspections. You don’t want to risk the lives of your loved ones, nor do you want to risk losing all of your possessions and valuables to an electrical fire. Everything can have an impact on your home’s electrical circuit including age, usage, and the installation of newer electrical devices. When buying, selling, or even just for your peace of mind, it’s important to have an electrical safety inspection done.

There are a few important things that you need to keep in mind when it comes to your household and electricity usage. In order to protect your family and loved ones it is in your best interest to know and understand your homes electrical panel. You need to know which fuse or switch on your panel controls the corresponding light or outlet. If you have any doubt with regards to your homes safety, have a licensed professional come to your home to conduct the necessary and relevant checks.

The National Electrical Code (NEC) is the standard code that all licensed electricians must adhere to in order to meet state and local regulations with regards to electrical safety standards. Remember, each state has its own specific rules and regulations regarding electrical codes. You need an electrician who is licensed to work in your specific state. It is illegal for any person to do an electrical installation if they are not state licensed. Licensed electricians need a minimum of 14 hours approved continuing education to ensure that they understand all code regulations and are up to date on any changes that may have occurred.

General Electrical Safety Checklist:

Are all light fixtures working and have diffusers been installed?

Are the cords in good condition without signs of deterioration, bends, or wear and tear?

Are extension cords being used in place of permanent wiring?

Are all appliances grounded?

Check the wiring methods and ensure that they are suitable for the current use.

Ensure that all conductors of a circuit are grouped together.

Check for wet and damp locations and the suitability of boxes and fittings in that area.

Check wiring and bending space in cabinets and boxes.

Ensure that any switches in wet or damp locations are properly installed in weatherproof enclosures.

Ensure that the household is compliant with branch-circuit voltage limitations.

Check what grounding electrodes are present on the premises.

WHY REGULAR ELECTRICAL SAFETY INSPECTIONS ARE ESSENTIAL

Electricity is one of the biggest conveniences of the modern times. And when your lights, electrical appliances, and other gadgets are all working well, it is easy to assume that the underlying electrical work is in perfect condition. Even when something goes wrong, there is always a quick and easy fix, like replacing a bulb or a broken component in an appliance.

What Does An Electrical Home Inspection Entail?

Electrical home inspections involve the meticulous assessment of your entire electrical system to ensure that all electrical systems, cables, and components – including your home’s wiring and electrical appliances – satisfy the legal safety standards.

All licensed electricians operate under a National Code when assessing your residence, and are required to provide you with a detailed and prioritised list of areas that need immediate attention, as well as recommendations for improvements and upgrades.

Performing Electrical Inspections

For an electrical inspection to be truly helpful, it should only be performed by a licensed electrician with the skills and competency to perform electrical safety checks. You need a residential electrician who has been trained on common issues to look for in residential properties, and how to correct any problems they find.

Finding The Right Electrical Contractor

Electrical inspections are vital for the safety of your home, office, or building. Worn, naked wires and messy wiring create all kinds of hazardous situations that range from deadly electrocutions to destructive fires. Keep in mind that poorly maintained wiring and electrical components can lead to life-threatening problems.

Home Electrical Safety Tips

You power your home with energy, but do you know electrical safety? The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that 31,000 home electrical fires occur every year, and with over 180 cases involving electrocution or electricity-related incidents that could have been avoided, home electrical safety is too important to ignore. At Constellation, we care about the safety of our customers, and by following these electrical safety tips you can protect your home and your family

What causes electrical fires in homes?

The National Fire Protection Association notes that faulty or damaged wiring and related electrical equipment cause 69 percent of electrical fires, followed by lamps, light fixtures, cords, plugs, transformers and other power supplies. When looking for potential fire hazards in your home, always be sure to consult with a professional.

Check that you’re using the correct wattage in all your fixtures and appliances.

Using the right bulbs can prevent electrical problems, so check all lamps, fixtures and appliances to ensure you’re using the correct wattage. If a light fixture has no wattage listed, use 60-watt bulbs or less. For unmarked ceiling fixtures, choose 25-watt bulbs.

Watch out for overloaded outlets to protect your home.

Overloading an electrical outlet is a common cause of electrical problems. Check all outlets to ensure they are cool to the touch, have protective faceplates and are in proper working order

Replace or repair damaged electrical cords to keep your home safe.

Damaged power cords are a serious residential electrical safety risk, and they are capable of causing both fires and electrocution. All power and extension cords should be checked regularly for signs of fraying and cracking, and they should then be repaired or replaced as needed. Power cords should not be stapled into place or run under rugs and furniture. Cords under rugs pose a tripping hazard and can overheat, while furniture can crush cord insulation and damage wires.

Hire World Class Residential Cleaning Services

Criteria for Choosing the Perfect Home Cleaning Service for You!

Although it seems like a simple decision to make, there are, in fact, some very important factors to consider when choosing a maid service. This is because there are a lot of cleaning companies out there that care more about making a fast buck and less about providing a satisfactory service. Therefore, the home cleaning service you choose to hire must be one that you can trust wholeheartedly; depend on whenever, wherever; and provide quality service for your home and family.

Certified Cleaners

Unless the cleaning company you’re looking at works with certified cleaners, perhaps hiring them isn’t the best idea. You need to know that your home is in the right hands which means, certification in the cleaning industry and with the company is a must. This also ensures that the maids have been background checked and are worthy of working in the home cleaning business.

References

The reassurance of having past customers of a cleaning service vouch for the company plays a huge role in one’s decision to hire them. From online customer reviews, to written recommendations; ask the cleaning company in question for references before you decide to hire them.

Insurance

Insurance is extremely important when hiring a maid service because it protects your family and home against injury and damage to your property. Therefore, if a cleaning company does not carry insurance, it’s advised that you do not consider hiring them. Having insured and bonded cleaners in your home gives you the peace of mind that your family and home are not at risk in any way.

Experience

Find out when the company was established and how long their cleaners have been working in the house cleaning industry to ensure that you are not leaving your home in inexperienced hands. The amount of training a cleaning staff has received also matters when looking to find a cleaning service that is 100% efficient and knowledgeable in going about home cleaning in a safe and timely manner. Ask for proof of their experience via certificates or cross-checks with past employers to be fully convinced of their abilities and work ethic.

Tips on How to Choose the Best House Cleaning Service

If you’re looking to get your home cleaned, it’s important to know exactly what you need done. If there are any off-limits rooms or specific areas that you’d like more focus on. Once you know what you want, you can make a list of requirements which should help when you’re choosing a cleaning service.

Eliminate any companies that are not insured

When choosing a house cleaning service, it’s important to make sure that the company you choose is fully insured. Should any accidents or thefts occur whilst the service is there, the insurance will cover it. If you choose a cleaner without insurance, all the responsibility will be yours.

Don’t just consider the cheaper option

If a cleaning service is offering to clean for you at an incredibly cheap price, it may be too good to be true. Find out what kind of service you’ll actually be getting. They’ll most likely be taking some kind of short cut or may have a bad reputation.

Are they using environmentally friendly chemicals?

Looking after the environment as well as your family should be your main priority. If you have pets or children with allergies, knowing what kind of chemicals are used is essential.

Choose a cleaning service that provides a guarantee

Any cleaning service that takes pride in their work will ensure you’re satisfied and will make sure that any issues you have are reviewed and taken care of promptly

Secrets to Hiring a House Cleaning Service!

I started a cleaning service company here in my home town of Toronto back in 2006, it’s called Clean My Space – who would have thought!? Over the years, I’ve learned a lot about this industry and I wanted to answer a question that I get asked a lot: How do I know which cleaning company to hire?

Whether you want to hire a cleaning service to help you with a one-off task, an annual spring clean, or something on a more regular basis, there are a few things you need to inquire about before you make a decision

Get Referrals From Family & Friends

Start by asking friends and family who they use – referrals give you an inside look at what a company is all about – not just what they say on their website (let’s be honest, a company can write anything). Companies can make themselves sound amazing, credible and experienced, but a referral from a friend or family can paint a different picture and carries more weight.

Take Online Reviews With a Grain of Salt

Happy people don’t tend to write as many reviews as unhappy people who feel compelled to shower the world with their terrible experiences. Remember, oftentimes, those reviews are people using it as an opportunity to vent, blow a story out of proportion, or try to damage the reputation of the company. If a company has ALL terrible reviews, that’s definitely a red flag, but if they have mostly good reviews and a few bad ones, that’s pretty average. No one is perfect.

Bonding, Insurance & Worker’s Compensation

Does the company have the ability to cover the costs of any damage done to your home, any theft, or if an injury occurs on your property? If they don’t have this coverage, you could be on the hook for money, items stolen, property damaged, or an injured worker. A company should be willing to tell you if they have this coverage and provide copies of their policies at your request.

How to Hire a House Cleaning Service

Cleaning your house can be a time-consuming process that may be difficult to fit into your schedule. If your financial situation allows you to hire a cleaning service, this option can save you time and leave you with a sparkling home. There are likely several cleaning services in your area. Choosing and hiring the right one requires you to be aware of your own needs and to do some research on various services’ reputations and specialities.

Decide what you want cleaned. You may only choose to have the service tackle particularly tough spots in your home, such as the kitchen and main bathroom. Some families will want the house cleaned from top to bottom. You’ll also need to decide whether you expect services that may go beyond standard cleanings, such as wiping down the baseboards or washing the windows

Estimate how long it will take to clean your house. Most cleaning services will ask you how big your house is, how many bedrooms and bathrooms it contains, and what kind of routine cleaning you usually do. One bedroom and one bathroom usually takes about two and a half hours to clean, and kitchens take another 1-2 hours. If you haven’t cleaned in a while, these numbers may go up. Preparing this information for the service will help you both decide what you can afford

Decide how often you want your service to clean. Depending on your family’s needs, you may only need the service to come once or twice a month. If you have a bigger budget and a busier schedule, you might opt for more frequent visits. You can also create an alternating weekly schedule that directs the cleaners to clean different rooms every other time they visit

Buy your own cleaning supplies if you have a preference. Because they’re more expensive, most cleaners will not clean with natural cleaning solutions. If you don’t want chemical cleaners used in your home, or if you have special cleaners you prefer, you’ll likely need to provide these to the service

Things to Look For When Choosing a Maid Service

Taking the decision on whether to hire a professional maid service can be a tough one. On one hand, there is the fear of having your privacy invaded by strangers and having them handle the things you hold dear. On the other hand, you could be someone with no time in your hand to clean your own house and need a person to rely on to save you the time and the the resulting tiredness afterwards.

Choose a Highly Referred Service

Choosing a cleaning service can very well be compared to choosing a doctor. You need to look for the most trusted and reputable ones and keep going through them until you find the one that suits you the best.

Conduct a Telephone Interview

Most cleaning services have a policy of going through your home first to see the extent of cleaning they need to provide before they come up with an amount for the service and decide on the dates. Before it even gets to that, it is better to ask questions over the phone to save both of you any wastage of time. This way, you can also keep sketchy services from taking a look inside your house.

Individual or Service?

Hiring an individual has both its pros and cons. For an individual, they can provide more attention to details and you can personalize their service more to your needs. However, if they fall ill, you won’t have anyone to back them up on a day when you need them. The insurance you have for an individual also doesn’t always cut it. If something happens in your home, you might have no way of getting full compensation

Take a walk through your home with the representative

If after the telephone interview, you have narrowed down the list of house cleaning services you prefer the most, it’s time to let them have a look inside your house. When they are coming for a visit, don’t bother cleaning up your house more than you usually would.