Author: Creative Programs and Systems - page 302

Care For Your Pool Throughout The Winter

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

Another swimming pool season has ended here in the North.  Most of us have closed are pool and will not think about them again until the Spring when we start to think about opening them again.  One thing that tends to wreak more havoc on swimming pools than little kids and their floaters is the drastic temperature changes that occur throughout the Winter months. Here you will find some things to consider during the Winter to help you stay ahead of the game to create a trouble-free opening and swimming season when we see the sun again.

Your pool motor is the first place we will begin.  During the winter the pool motor does not have to run all day at full power.  The motor cycle can be turned down to anywhere between three to five hours a day throughout the Winter.  The best time to do run the motor is during the early morning hours when temperatures are at their coldest to keep water moving through the pipes. This will help to prevent any standing water left in the pipe from freezing and will also keep pump seals from going bad.  A good time to run the motor is between two and eight in the morning.

If your pool has a salt chlorination generator it is best to remove the cell and replace it will a blank cell.  The cold water will not allow it to produce chlorine.  Once this is done take the cell that was in the generator and thoroughly clean it making sure it is in prime condition to re-install during the next swimming season.  To keep the pool at the correct chlorination throughout the Winter season you can add chlorine via a pool floater.  This will help expand the longevity of the generator as well as it is not trying to produce chlorine throughout the long, cold season.

When you are closing your pool for the Winter season it is the perfect time to change and replace the water in the pool.  The water may still appear clean and clear but still has all of the ingredients to mix together a good batch of residue, algae and bacteria.  It is easier to drain and refill the pool than dumping in lots of expensive chemicals trying to improve the pool water quality.

Cleaning the calcium off pool plaster and pool tile is best done as you are closing the pool for the season as well.  When the pool is drained or partially drained it is easy to access the interior of the pool.  The pool plastering should be cleaned for sure if you are completely draining the pool anyway.  You will be killing two birds with one stone.

Hiring a professional to maintain your pool and the pools plaster is just as important in the winter as in the summer especially if you know you will not make time to do it yourself.  The little bit extra you will pay for professional services will save you a ton of money and headaches come Spring when you start to think about opening the pool again.

 

Pound Pool Plastering

Don’t Forget About Business Insurance before Your Grand Opening

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

Starting your own business comes with a lot of anticipation, responsibility and preparation.  When venturing into a new business there is a lot to look forward to and a lot to consider before opening the doors.  One thing that is often overlooked when starting up a business is insurance.  Business owners become so involved and wrapped up in aspects such as capital, funding, licenses, inventory, employees and everything else that often business insurance takes a back seat.  Insurance is essential to the success of your business, no matter what size your business is.

The risks involved in starting your own business are plentiful.  Without insurance business owners set themselves up for a huge fall should a disaster strike.  Unexpected circumstances surround us every day and therefore your business as well.  With basic general business insurance you at least have the ability to protect yourself and your family should anything happen when you are not prepared.

When looking for small business insurance coverage that meets you specific business needs it is wise to understand exactly what is available and what you need to be adequately covered. There are three basic types of business insurance; general liability insurance, property insurance and workers’ compensation insurance.

General liability insurance for business owners is available to cover people who come into harm’s way in or near your business during working/business hours.  If anything happens to any individual that is in your business general liability insurance helps to cover the expenses that will be incurred and will assist in settlement costs that can range from ongoing medical care, surgery, rehabilitation, home modifications and beyond. When you are speaking about physical or emotional care for someone you are considering a large sum of money.  General liability insurance is there to make sure that this is taken care.

The next type of insurance that is important for business owners to consider is property insurance.  Property insurance is available to protect the business in case of a catastrophic event in regards to the physical location and equipment used for the business.  Insurance that covers the property ensures that there are funds to cover renovations.  Many threats surround the physical location of a business including vandalism, theft, accidents and fires. It is so important that in business owners take time to insure their future stake in the business. Rebuilding a physical location along with equipment and inventory is a large cost that many businesses without insurance cannot recover.

Workers’ compensation is the last type of business insurance we will cover.  As the name stats workers compensation, often called workmens’comp, covers and compensates employees that are hurt, injured or disabled in a work related incident.  This insurance is incredibly valuable as it protects business owners from lawsuits if in fact an employee ever sues an employer claiming an illness or job related injury.

Commercial insurance policies should be tailor-made to your business while being affordable and effective.  A quality local insurance agent will understand the needs of businesses from your area along with specific special industry needs you may have.  Whatever you do, when starting a business, don’t forget to look into and purchase business insurance.  It may save your entire livelihood one day.

Cobb Hall

Business Insurance Protects Owners From Disasters Big and Small

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

No matter how successful your business is disaster could strike at any minute and in minutes ruin everything it has taken you years to create.  This is why business insurance, no matter how big or small the company, is so important. Businesses must carry insurance to alleviate the risk involved in unforeseen events.   When cutting costs and shrinking corners in your business expenses make sure you don’t lessen or stop your business insurance.  Sometimes it only takes one event, no matter the size, to completely disable everything you have worked for within your business. Below you will find things to consider when looking into insurance coverage for your small business.

The first thing to consider is insurance that covers acts of God and general business liability.  Acts of God are events that is out of human control such as floods, tornados, hurricanes and storms.  No one can control the outcome of a natural disaster thus why it is so important to have insurance to protect your business from one.  It is incredibly hard to predict a natural disaster in enough time to protect what you have built up from what is about to happen.  Insurance makes it so that you can rebuild and continue running your business once the dust settles.  General liability insurance covers a business owner for accidents.  For instance, if you own a computer repair company and while a client’s computer is in your shop a theft occurs.  Insurance protects you from liability to the client for the missing computer.

Another consideration is the laws regarding business in your state.  Legal requirements for businesses are done at the state level and often have strict rules out the type of insurance that needs to be purchased and how much coverage needs to be obtained.  Check to see about workers compensation, disability insurance and other state requirements.  Using a local in-state insurance agent for your business insurance needs will help to ensure that you are receiving knowledgeable information regarding your states business requirements.

Workers Compensation, property insurance and general liability are all incredibly beneficial types of business insurance coverage however do not help fill in the gap for reimburse lost profits.  The only type of insurance that covers you for reimbursement of lost profits is business interruption insurance.  This insurance keeps you up and running even after a disaster.  Disability insurance can be purchased to keep a steady income coming in shall you be disabled or too ill to run your company.  Likewise, insurance can be purchased for overhead expenses such as supplies and inventory as well if you should become disabled and cannot continue running your business.

Business insurance is purchased to protect your hard work.  When seeking out business insurance it is best to find one agent to purchase insurance from.  This ensures that they have a record of what you have at all times and can evaluate any missing pieces as your business grows and your insurance needs change. Business insurance agents will regularly assess your businesses risks by doing a risk assessment which helps to ensure that as your needs change so does your insurance.

 

Cobb Hall

Purchasing The Perfect Christmas Gift

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

Christmas is right around the corner.  With holidays comes the stress of what to purchase for your significant other.  This stress is felt by so many couples.  Men tend not to think too deeply and therefore purchase something that is insulting or impractical as a gift.  While women tend to think of items that they would want, this is not exactly what a man wants as a gift.  A gift is supposed to be something impractical that one would not purchase for themselves.  You want to get an item that they will adore, something that shows them how much you think of them and what they mean to you.

Here is a guide that will help you shop without purchasing an insulting or impractical gift for your lady.

Appliances

No matter what she says she needs for the kitchen or house in general appliances are a terrible gift idea. Blenders, knives, toasters and mixers are all items that should be bought as a gift to the house not to your significant other.  Items that will be used by both of you are not usually a good bet as a gift to another person, especially when the purchase involves them preparing a meal for you for you or cleaning your joint home.

Cleaning Supplies

This falls in line with the above.  A vacuum, carpet cleaner or window washer is all items that tell your spouse you are unhappy with how clean the house is.  Again, don’t ever bring one of these homes on Christmas, an anniversary or even a hallmark holiday like sweetest day.  They are not meant to be given as a gift to a spouse but rather a gift to your home for both of you to use.  Never tell a woman I bought you something and walk in with a vacuum.  Instead say I bought something that we can both use around the house to make cleaning easier.  Guarantee the results you will see with the second phrase are far better than the first.

Candles, Lotions and Bath Stuff

Let’s face it, purchasing a candle, lotion or items for the bath basically screams I put zero thought into this gift.  These are everyday items that she will purchase for herself and your home.  This is a cop-out gift.  It tells her you could think of nothing else and were in a last minute bind so you copped out.

Cheap Perfume

Never is it okay to go into a convenience store to purchase your significant other perfume.  If you are not purchasing perfume from a boutique or department store then it most likely does not need to be purchased.  Women love to smell good which cheap fragrances do not.  A reputable perfume will start at around fifty dollars for a few ounces.  A great way to figure out a scent that you both enjoy is to take her to the mall one day and pass by the perfume counter and test out a few fragrances.  She will never suspect a thing but may get a few ideas of what you like as well.

Fake Diamonds and Cheap Jewelry

Diamonds and jewelry given as a gift should always be the real thing.  Women can spot a fake a mile away.  Anything fake is best not given as a gift. This is a huge hint men.  Don’t pass off handbags, jewelry or gemstones as the real thing it will come back to bite you.  Holidays are the perfect time to give a gift that you have invested time and money into when it comes to jewelry.  Charm bracelets, watches and necklaces are always a favorite for women. Consider her taste in metal and stones and purchase something from a reputable jeweler that she won’t be able to put down on Christmas morning.  Jewelry that has special meaning to the two of you will be a sure favorite for years to come.

Consider yourself armed with knowledge now and head on out to find the perfect gift for your spouse this holiday season!  A little thought, a lot of romance and sensitivity equals one well played gift and one lucky gift receiver (and giver).

DaRoche Jewelers

Home Improvements that Improve Home Value

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

There are so many reasons to want to bring new life to your home and so many different ways to achieve it.  Homeowners must love their new remodel or home upgrade however; they should also remember that in the end it is also important to think about the long term.  This includes the quality of the improvement, the value it gives to the equity in the home’s value and if the upgrade is universal and will pleasing to many different buyers in the future.

Kitchen renovations give the best return on investment when you do decide to sell your home.  Simple kitchen upgrades are easy enough for home owners to do on their own while others should be left to a professional contractor.  Simply refinishing cabinets, replacing laminate counter tops, steel sinks, faucets and hardware can do a lot to update a kitchen with very little investment to a homeowner.  If looking for something more than this such as moving appliances and restructuring cabinets call in a professional kitchen remodeler.  It will save you money, time and sanity and frankly the money will be recouped in the end but the time and sanity those are things you can’t get back.

The exterior of your home is also an area that can bring a large return on your investment.  Not only will you improve the curb appeal of your home but also the homes’ equity.  New siding and trim is one of the only renovations that will not cause much turmoil to your families routine as well which is rare when thinking about home improvements.

The bathroom is another area that can also increase the value of your home.  Some major renovations in a bathroom are flooring, ceramic tiling, new fixtures and faucets and an upgrade in cabinets and vanities.  Major renovations that include the layout of the space should be really considered as that often adds expense that is not recouped in the end.

Another major exterior investment that helps increase the curb appeal as well as the home’s value is a deck or patio area installation.  A deck home addition adds an extra functional space for entertaining and play.  A deck can be made as cozy as the interior of your home with the latest inventions for outdoor entertaining such as screens to alleviate the presence of bugs or outdoor heaters that keep the chill at bay.

All home additions are worth the expense, stress and time spent if it is something that will improve the quality of your life and enhance the space in which you live.  Some also will help increase the value of your home as well while others are strictly done for the benefit of the homeowner while they are living within the space.  Basement renovations are hard to recoup.  You will see an increase in your home value but it may not be nearly what you spent on the renovations itself.  Doing too many renovations of this nature within your home can leave you upside down when it comes time to sell the home if you have renovated on the equity of your home.  Consider this before jumping head first into any major room renovation.

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

Installing a New Shingle Roof in Winter

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

There are so many myths and opinions on how the winter and the cold temperatures that it brings with it affect roofing.  As with summer, there are days when it is too hot or roofing.  The same applies to winter, some days it will just be too cold to lay shingles.  If you hire a contractor that understands roofing and follows the procedures needed to install a roof in the winter there should not be any issues with the roof at all. In this article we will look at the advantages and disadvantages that come into play when installing a new roof in the winter.

The first thing roofing contractors get asked about is the temperature and the adhesive on the shingles.  Sunlight, whether during the heat of summer or the chill of winter will help allow the shingles to adhere to the roof.  If a roof contractor ever recommends using roofing cement on your roof run the other way.  Never let anyone use roofing cement on your roof.

Another belief is that shingles installed in the winter will blow off easier because they are not properly sealed.  This too is not the case.  Shingles tend to blow off of a roof because they are not properly fastened.  When a nailing gun is used the roofer needs to make sure at all times that the nails are not blowing through the shingles.  When this occurs, winter or summer, the shingles will blow off.  They key is to hire a roofing contractor that is consensus of how much pressure is being blown out with the use of his pneumatic nail gun.  During the winter it is also best practice to fasten the shingles by hand to guarantee the shingle is held down and doesn’t split from the cold.

There are advantages that come with installing a new roof in the winter.  In the cold shingles are a lot less likely to be scuffed or marred up from the roofers moving about on the freshly laid shingles.  The shingles are more solid and rugged when the tar has not left the gravel loose.

The winter is considered the off season for most roofing companies especially those in the Northeast. With this said winter is the perfect time for those homeowners that do not have time to wait for a roofing contractors schedule to open up because most likely it already is.  In the summer you are really at the beck and call of the roofer.  With so many roofs that need to be done roofers tend to have tighter schedules and skeleton crews. However in the winter your roof could be removed, repaired and re-roofed all in the same day with the larger crew and availability of the roofing contractor.

Another thing to consider is that in the winter shingle lines are being discounted because they are being discontinued.  This can lead to major savings for you as a homeowner.  Assist your contractor in finding the best deal on quality shingles for your home.  It may save you hundreds of dollars having discontinued shingles shipped to you for your new roof.

The jury is still out of course as people that believe winter roofing is not as viable as summer roofing will most likely not be swayed.  The good and the bad comes along with any home improvement project and living in a climate with four seasons presents a challenge when it comes to having a rood installed.

 

Home Pro Roofing MI

Aging In Place With Home Improvements

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

Ages in place remodeling needs are increasing as seniors are demanding to stay independent and in their own homes longer than ever before. With advances in home remodeling, contractors are able to upgrade homes to fit the special needs of the aging population thus making living alone possible. Success in remodeling for aging in place depends on several things including choosing improvements that work with the homes original structure and a certified contractor to complete the remodeling process.

The first step in senior home improvements should start at the homes entrances and exits. Handicap ramps and increased doorway width are an important place to begin. A wheelchair accessible entrance is beneficial for those confined to wheelchairs, walkers and the use of a cane. Stairs are an incredible burden when it comes to the aging body and a handicap ramp, installed properly whether aluminum or wood will ease the burden of accessing the home.

The next room within the home that needs to be looked at is the bathroom. Over fifty percent of accidents happen in the bathroom mostly from falls. A bathroom is easily modified with proper installation from a certified contractor. Installing grab bars by the toilet and within the shower are a must for home improvements for seniors. The use of special fixtures and door pulls are especially helpful when it comes to the lack in strength in aging hands. You can also increase the height of the toilet to help ease getting on and off as well.

The kitchen is another area prone to senior accidents. When remodeling a kitchen for aging in place fixtures are important as well as accessibility. Keeping items within reach to avoid seniors climbing is important. One way that this can be accomplished is using sliding platforms within cupboards. This allows items to be stacked lower. Keep all appliances and everyday items within reach, increase the lighting within the space and simplify.

In the bedroom space it is important to have abundant lighting that is easy to get to. A light should be within arms reach from the bed so that when waking in the middle of the night to use the restroom they are not maneuvering about in the dark. Organize closet space so that clothing is within reach without having to over stretch or climb. This will be a reoccurring theme, lighting, ease of reach and maneuverability.

Include seniors in the changes around their home. This will make them less resentful of the age in place remodeling and make adjusting to the lifestyle of one that is aging less difficult. Help by removing throw rugs and increase lighting throughout the home. Increase fire safety by providing fire alarms with increased volume and flashing lights along with fire extinguishers throughout the home. Remove obstacles and create areas within the home where things can be stored.

When remodeling for aging in place creating a safe, usable space that still feels like home is the most important aspect of the entire project. Find a contractor that listens and offers several different design ideas that fit with creating a safe space to grow old in.

 

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Pool Plaster

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

Owning a pool is a wonderful luxury but also requires a good amount of effort to maintain the pools finish, plumbing and everyday care.  One important aspect of pool maintenance is the finish of the pool be it white plaster or something more specialized like Hydrazzo, Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Traditional White Plaster, Quartz Aggregate and Pebble Surface plasters.  When researching plaster finishes for your pool you will come to realize that white is the most affordable therefore the most common finish for commercial and residential inground pools.

Plaster is the most common material and the least expensive finish for inground pools. It is likely that if your home has an inground pool or if you are installing one that the shell of the pool is made out of concrete, or as known in the pool industry a material called gunite.  The pool plaster is laid over the gunite shell and smoothed to perfection.

Pricing on different types of plaster finishes can vary a great deal depending on the color, style of the plaster chosen and the region in which you are from. When looking at companies to finish or refinish your pool make sure to check references and ensure that you are looking at what each company offers and their references.  Some companies will take shortcuts that can make the plaster job cheaper however will reduce the length of time the finish will hold up costing you more in the long run.

Below is a brief overview on the different options in plaster finishes you can choose from for your pool finish.

White Pool Plastering:  As mentioned above, this is the most affordable and most common plaster finish.  It is created using a combination of marble aggregate, water and cement.  White plaster is often used in commercial pools as it is standard code.  The one disadvantage of white plaster over other options is that is tends to be softer and therefore lasts only about five to seven years before the first signs of erosion are seen.  Keeping the chemistry of your pools water will increase the longevity of your white plaster finish.

Colored Pool Plaster: The difference between white plaster and colored plaster is, you guessed it, the color.  A dye is mixed in with the aggregate, water and cement to create a tint.  This is one way to add interest to the finish while keeping the costs reasonable.  The one disadvantage is that overtime the coloring will start to fade.

Crushed Quartz Additives In Plaster: Diamond Brite and Hydrazzo are brands that add luster and shine to the pools plaster finish along with increasing the life time of the finish.  Using quartz additives can increase the life of the finish for up to twenty years.  Just be careful as the quartz adds a slip resistant surface which is durable but can be rough on feet.

As with every purchase around your home you need to weight the benefits, cost and time you will be living in the house. If you intend to stay in your home, therefore utilizing the pool for a long period of time it is a safe bet to go with a quartz finish as it will save you the hassle of finishing the pool every five to seven years!

 

Pound Pool Plastering

Minimizing The Impact Of Divorce On Children

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

Divorce is not easy; this is the understatement of the year!  All people in a family are affected by a divorce.  Spouses, children, in-laws, everyone is affected to some degree.  For children the divorce of their parents is often a very traumatic experience no matter how smooth the transition and no matter how old children are.  It is hard for children to understand and come to terms with the fact that the two people they love are now going to be divorce.

Children often feel at fault or to blame when their parents separate.  Often, this makes little sense to adults however children find a way to associate everything back to them and see fault.  Kids going through a parents’ divorce struggle to find ways to prevent the divorce.  The “what ifs” and “if I did this” keep running through children’s minds.

As parents we are struggling with the impending divorce as well.  We worry about our finances, about becoming single again and about the next step.  It is often hard to remember that you aren’t the only person worried about all of this.  Children are notorious worriers about things that they have little to no control over.  As parent’s going through a divorce it is our job to alleviate and manage the burden felt by our children as we sort out the bigger issues.

The first crucial moment for children is when their parents sit down to tell them that they are indeed going to get a divorce.  Breaking this news is heartbreaking as well as difficult.  Don’t ever break the news of an impending divorce, to children, in the heat of the moment.  It should be a time when you come together as a family to properly explain what is happening and why.  The better prepared you are for this step the less misunderstandings and worry there will be for your children.

These are you children together and it is important for both parents to remember this.  Children are incredibly impressionable and no matter what the reason is for the divorce all children see is how much they love both of you.  They will have a hard time seeing why the two of you no longer love one another.  It is so crucial that as a family unit, time is taken to explain this.  Also take the worry and anxiousness out of the situation by explaining in detail the next step, where will everyone be living, what is happening and when it will happen.

The issue of child custody and child support will arise throughout the process, this is inevitable.  Don’t burden your children with this.  Work to come to a consensus with your partner and if this is not possible the judge in the case will make arrangements based on the information provided to make sure your children are as affected as minimally as possible in the given situation.

Although through the divorce you may have ill-will towards your partner this is not anything that should be expressed in front of your children.  They are your children together and they love you both equally.  Children are not a pawn and should not be used as one. To do so is irresponsible and harmful to them.  Nothing good comes from putting your children in the middle of any argument you are having.

As always be clear with your children.  No matter how old they are there is a way to convey information about the situation in an age appropriate manner.  As parents this is your obligation to them.  Your children will thank you as they grow for making the process less burdensome on them.  They will see the world and will appreciate the manner in which you proceeded to handle the difficulties of divorce when you are honest in your communication with them.

Longton Law

Preparations Needed Before Filing For Divorce

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

Beginning the divorce process is one of the hardest decisions in life.  It comes with much stress, anticipation and uncertainty.  Some of the things that may be going through your mind are about finances, living arrangements and the future.

In this article we will work to help you get a grasp of the uncertainty that comes with filing for a divorce in Michigan and offer tips to ensure a successful transition.

How will I survive financially without my spouse’s income?

The first step is to determine how many expenses that you will have on your own.  Look at your housing expensive (rent and utilities), vehicle, insurance, credit cards and money for living expenses.   It is not wise to include spousal support or child support arrangements until this has been set in stone.  Be prepared to do it on your own.

Next determine what special assistance you may be entitled to.  Look into local, state and federal assistance and changes in your status that will assist you.  For instance locally you may be able to receive a reduction in your Council Tax bill as a single adult household.  State assistance may be given in child care credits and federal assistance in the form of tax credits and programs such as bridge card assistance.

You will want to contact your bank and inform them that a divorce is imminent and open up an account in only your name that you alone have access to.  Make sure that you place money that is yours into an account that cannot be touched by your spouse.  You will need your own funds no matter how confident you are in the beginning that things will be smooth and everyone will agree on divorce settlements things change in the heat of the moment.  The most congenial people can turn bitter fast within divorce proceedings.

Where we I live during the divorce proceedings and after?

Contact a real estate professional immediately if you believe that neither you nor your spouse will be in the market to stay within the marital home.  This enables the home to be put on the market and hopefully sold during the divorce.  From here you will determine what is owed on the home and what the value of the home is.  This will help both parties estimate how much they will be able to afford in a new home as well as how much money they can expect from the sale of the marital home.

If you will be staying in the home you will need to make arrangements to get a mortgage in your own name.  Many times this can be achieved with a property adjustment order.  This allows one spouse to remain in the home, with the children, until a later agreed upon date.  This is achieved with a Financial Consent Order and is a way in which both couples are required to contribute to the homes mortgage payment.

What will I do now? What does the future hold for me?

You will need to determine where your income will come from.  Will you work full-time, part-time and how does this affect child care?  If you are not already in the job market you will want to sharpen your skills with schooling or training right away to ensure that you will be able to support yourself and your family.  You will be relying on a single income make sure you are in a career that can sustain your lifestyle.  It may be time to re-discover a passion that will supplement your income as well.  Often times side hobbies start to turn into an additional source of income when living through a divorce.  Consider selling your paintings, getting into part time photography or even selling up cycled furniture.  Whatever your hobbies are before the divorce can often supplement your income substantially.

Divorce is never easy on anyone.  Being prepared is one way to decrease the amount of anxiety you will feel when making the first steps towards divorce.

Longton Law