Author: Creative Programs and Systems - page 309

Adjusting The Home For Loved Ones With Mobility Challenges

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

There are guidelines in place to assist elderly and physically challenged people when it comes to accessing public spaces and the space within their living environment. Guidelines set for by the ADA, otherwise known as The American with Disabilities Act. It is important that caregivers of individuals falling into this category are knowledgeable about current requirements. Contractor’s making handicap construction type upgrades should be certified by the ADA. There are major differences involved in making a home safe, room by room, for those with special needs.

One room in particular that needs special attention is the bathroom. Grab bars need to be installed and professionally anchored into the wall. It is important to note that standard wall anchors might not be enough to hold the weight of an individual day after day. It is important to look to use products that are specifically designed for ADA purposes. Look for fasteners that state “For use in universal design construction”. These products are rated to hold upwards of 600 pound or more. If someone is using the grab bar as they are about to fall the pull, push force will indeed be more than the 200 pound rating of standard anchors.

Floor space is an issue throughout the home. The clear space needed to accommodate a wheelchair user is at least 30″ x 48″. When designing the furniture within a room it is best to keep in mind that wheelchairs need to be able to approach the space forward or parallel for ease of transfer. Also keep in mind the material used for flooring. Carpets with frieze or shag are not good choices for those with mobility issues as well as the use of floor rugs. The carpet or flooring should be smooth and obstacle free. Baskets are used a lot to keep clutter under control but those also can be nuisances when navigating using a walker, wheelchair, cane or crutches.

Kitchens spaces are unavoidable and must be designed around those living in the space that are limited in movement, mobility and other ADA needs. An open kitchen design is obviously the best option for any home that will be used during the aging in place process or for physically challenged individuals. With the new technology that is available this is easier to achieve than ever before. Start by adding extra lighting throughout the kitchen, including under cupboard lighting. This will help illuminate the counter work space when preparing meals.

It is important that everything be within reach as well. This will mean installing fixtures that are easy to manipulate. Avoid knobs that are small or need to be turned. Lazy-Susan shelving and cupboards with multiple sliding shelves are the best option for people with disability. This allows things to be within reach without having to stand on a step stool or stretch to reach. Faucets should be those that do not require turning, single handle faucets are super easy to manipulate for hands that are aching from arthritis or that are losing their mobility.

The biggest thing to remember when upgrading your home to age in place or to accommodate a loved one with limited abilities is to hire someone who is familiar with handicap construction and age in place home modifications. Not all general contractors have experience in the world of universal design and all of the items that need special attention. One thing to learn is that not ever wall anchor is suited for use in ADA renovations. Even if the rating seems high enough for the amount of pressure anticipated to be put on the object consider the force that occurs when falling or bracing one’s self. This is the weight you are anchoring!

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

Aluminum Pool Fencing Bring Backyard Safety To In Ground Pools

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Adding an in ground pool for most families is an exciting adventure however with this addition brings on the fact that you are now in the market for an aluminum pool fence as well. Aluminum fencing is lightweight and practically maintenance free. This is important as the pool that is being installed is anything but maintenance free. Aluminum pool fence is highly resistant to corrosion as well as bringing attractive warranties and benefits beyond the ease of maintenance. Aluminum pool fencing comes in many styles, colors, designs and sizes.

Most aluminum pool fencing companies offer lifetime warranties. They can offer warranties of this magnitude because aluminum pool fences are known for their durability and crack, chip and peel resistant finishes. The aluminum fence is made out of metal that has the color baked into the enamel or is powder coated.

Purchasing aluminum fencing online has never been easier than it is now days. Many companies will have information on local installation companies that will install your fence as well or even offer installation services. Make sure that they are used to installing aluminum fencing and ask questions such as if they will be using concrete footings to set the fence posts. They should be installing the fence per the manufacturer’s recommendations. That is always a good way to weed potential installation companies out if you are on your own to find someone to install the aluminum pool fence.

Purchasing aluminum pool fencing online allows you as the consumer to get the closest price to what you would pay ordering directly from the fencing manufacturer. Most aluminum pool fence manufactures do not allow for direct residential purchase. The last thing you want to do is over pay for the pool fence so be sure when ordering that your quotes all include all of the necessary pieces needed for a complete fence. Some online suppliers that have super low quotes are not including the recommended line, end or corner posts. Be sure the quote is all inclusive and the price you are getting includes all of the materials you as a homeowner would need to install the fence on your own if so desired.

Pool safety regulations vary from state to state but one recommendation to keep your pool a safe and fun place to gather is to install a gate with an automatic locking system. This will allow the pool area to be entered only if an adult is there that knows how to access the gates lock. Often time’s homeowners will use an electronic entry access system if installing a new fence. This is an extra safety precaution for inground pools. An automatic locking system alleviates issues involved in walking away and forgetting to put the lock into place. Many accidental drowning occur because of children entering the pool area without an adult. Think about the times when someone runs into grab a drink and leaves the kids in the backyard to play. Those are times when normal locks get forgotten. When the safety of children is in question it is far better to be safe than sorry.

Forever-Fence, SAC Fence

The Intrigue of Black Diamonds

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

When people think of diamonds they usually visualize a crystal clear, sparkling diamond. Many people have in their minds that diamonds are supposed to be solitaires and never think about other cuts of diamonds let alone consider the different colors available for them. Black diamonds are a beautiful option for nontraditional engagement rings or jewelry in general.

Black diamonds are enhanced diamonds that have been treated with radiation to make their color come out black in appearance. When viewed under normal lights the diamonds appear black however when observed under fiber-optic light the interior of the stone is visible where you will actually see the stone is a very dark green. That dark green color is only seen in diamonds where radiation has been used to enhance the coloring.

Natural black diamond, which are less common are not treated and the black coloring comes from graphite inclusions. Usually natural black diamonds are opaque in color and remain very fragile and difficult for jewelers to work with. They are super delicate and polishing and finishing the diamond can be tricky.

When looking for black diamond pieces to add to your collection you should consider enhanced black diamond’s over “natural” black diamonds. The piece will stand up to the test of time and is still considered a genuine diamond to the world of jewelers. Black diamond’s that are set with contrasting clear “white” diamonds are absolutely stunning and classic. Black diamonds are becoming super popular. It is a gemstone that is rich in color and presence.

Black diamonds in custom pieces is becoming more common as well. Pearls and diamonds will always remain classic choices and will preserve through the ages. Black diamond’s added to classic pieces update jewelry from collections that have been passed through the ages. The combinations of white or black pearls with black diamonds are some of my favorite combinations. Pair this with white gold and I find it hard to go wrong. Jewelry pieces of this combination are absolutely stunning.

When selecting a piece of jewelry for you or for someone else as a gift the main thing to think about is the person themselves. Some people never wear dark pieces and are only attracted to colorful gemstones. For them black diamond’s might not appeal or need to be consider for an occasion piece. This way the receiver of the present will not feel the pressure that can come with pieces of jewelry. The last thing you want as the giver of a gift is for the person to dread wearing or using your gift. An occasion piece will prevent this from happening. Consider a cross in black diamond’s or a brooch if for the most part the receivers preference would not usually include something as dark as a black diamond.

DaRoche Jewelers

An Explanation Into Backyard Fencing

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

The backyard of the home is often the refuge to many of us. It is the place we entertain our children, a place our pets roam and most importantly a place of privacy where we retreat after a long week at work. We live in a world surrounded by subdivisions and homes built so close together that you can hear your neighbor blow their nose. This is why a fence for the backyard is so significant to home ownership today. Choosing a fence is not an easy task with the multitude of options available. The options are endless, from designing a fence of your own out of wood, prefabricated fencing panels and decorative aluminum fence.

Chain Link Fence

There isn’t a yard out there with a home built in the seventies and eighties that has not seen a chain link fence. It was the most affordable option which also made it the most popular. Now it seems that chain link fence has become used in more industrial settings than backyards. It is incredibly durable, easy to install and comes in a variety of heights. The drawbacks of chain link fencing actually only come from the ascetic make up of the fence. It only comes in gray unless you get the vinyl coated chain link fence which comes in black, green and white. A chain link fence will last you for many years and is easily maintainable.

Wooden Fence

Wooden fences are beautiful. They add a charm to any home. Wooden fence can be purchased in sections either as picket fencing, which is a short type of fence, or privacy fencing, which is usually a fence that is over five feet in height. Wooden picket fences are not great for keeping animals or children in the backyard. This type of fence is used more for decoration than for purpose. However, wooden fence sections can be purchased called privacy fence which stand taller to keep the backyard private as the name suggests. Drawbacks of wooden fencing materials come from the maintenance and longevity of the wood material. Naturally you will need to treat and maintain a wooden fence to protect it from the elements. The sun, rain and snow all cause threats to wooden fencing material not to mention insects.

Decorative Aluminum Fence

Decorative aluminum fencing is perfect for any backyard or driveway area. Aluminum fencing and gates can be installed for use with electronic gate openers. This is not only super convenient in keeping your home protected but also alleviates having to exit the car to open or close the gate. With access controlled gates you will find two options, both styles playing off the beauty of the aluminum fence, a slide gate opener or a swing gate opener. Aluminum fence is the option most chosen by homeowners for safety with in-ground pools. It is extremely stylish, keeps critters and children safe while adult supervision is not around and is virtually maintenance free. Aluminum pool fence tends to be a bit more expensive than other types of fencing materials but homeowners must look at the time and money spent on replacement fencing, maintenance and the decorative nature in itself when deciding on fencing.

There are several other type of fencing material out there such as vinyl fencing as well as split rail and fencing that is owner designed. Obviously the decision about fencing will come down to the look you are attracted to, the budget you want to stick with and the maintenance work you want to put into it for years to come. I love decorative aluminum fencing however my yard is surrounded by split rail fence as this material best went with the look of the river we have in our backyard.

SAC Fence

Help Assure Your Home Is Secure With A Home Alarm System

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Statistics clearly show that most home burglaries come from amateur thieves. Home security systems will detour these amateurs as well as making your home a more difficult target for professional thieves. Simple changes to your home help to protect your family paired with a professional installed home alarm your home will become less of a target.

Tips For Your Homes Security

The first tip I have for all home owners is to hire a professional alarm company to come in and help you develop a master plan for security for your family. Some homes and areas will require more detailed programming and home monitoring systems while some will get by just fine with an access entry controlled home alarm system and basic home safety upgrades.

When deciding what your home needs for protection it is a good idea to do a bit of role playing. Try to break into your own home. This will help you discover any areas of weakness in your current security plan. If you can find a way into your home when you lock yourself out of the house it is safe to say that your home will be an easy target for most burglars.

This seems like a super simple, no brainer tip however one that many homeowners don’t follow. Lock up your home even if you will only be gone for a short period of time. Thieves look for homes with ease of access. If a burglar can walk in and out without any deterrents your home will be a target for thieves.

When you move into a new home make sure you change all the entry and exit door handles and locks. It is impossible to predict if all of the homes keys have been retrieved from the previous owner so it is best to start fresh.

A professional installation company will install the homes alarm system concealing wires and monitoring systems. This is super important as professional thieves know what to look for and snip in improperly installed security systems.

Make sure your home always looks like people are home and that it is occupied. When you are on vacation use timers to turn on lights and radios to make it look as though the home is filled with life.

If your alarm has been having frequent false alarms get it fixed immediately a notify neighbors so that they don’t become desensitized to your system. If your alarm goes off periodically neighbors will tend to ignore it. This is not effective when it come to home security.

The use of a deadbolt on your outside entry doors will also deter many burglars as they are difficult to unlatch easily.

It is so important to feel safe and protected while inside your home. A simple home security system can give most homeowners that feeling. The nice thing about alarm systems is that they can be as simple or as complex as homeowners wish. Whether you are looking at alarming only the doors or a more complex system monitoring windows, doors, door walls, fire and sound waves hiring a professional alarm company to install your home security system will give you piece of mind whether you are home or away.

All Star Alarm

Shopping Online For Necklaces

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Shopping for jewelry and making a decision on what piece to where with what outfits is tricky for many of us. Necklaces are the hardest piece to buy in my own opinion. The length of the necklace is what makes the choice even more difficult. There are some basic guidelines to use when necklace shopping, especially when you are looking for jewelry online or as a gift for someone. Standard necklace chains are sixteen to twenty inches in length. For most people this length of chain will sit between the base of the throat and collarbone area. Personal taste can help determine what length to buy as well.

Tips To Help You Choose The Perfect Length Necklace

1) Most often the perfect size necklace for individuals will be right at or slightly above the collarbone. This can be found by measuring around the individual’s neck and adding between two and four inches for the perfect placement. When wearing a necklace with a pendant four inches is most appropriate. However, two inches is better for necklaces that are more artsy.

2) When choosing a choker style necklace you will most likely be purchasing a sixteen inch necklace. If you would like the choker to be tight, an exact fit there are two option; you can purchase a necklace that is adjustable with extra links or measure around the neck and have the choker made to fit.

3) If you are looking for a necklace for a child it is best to look for a jewelry store that sells options smaller than sixteen inches. A fourteen inch necklace is the perfect size for the little ladies in your life.

4) Costume necklaces are incredibly popular with women now-a-days. Costume jewelry allows the purchaser to buy several pieces to mix and match with the occasion and the outfit. Longer necklaces work well with tops with high necks as well as v-necks while shorter necklaces enhance formal attire. A classic look is a sixteen or eighteen inch string of pearls with an elegant little black dress. Match the necklace to the outfit, occasion and personal preference.

5) Where should a necklace fall for men? When thinking about purchasing a necklace for a man it should fall right at the collarbone. I see many men wearing necklaces with meaningful pendants and medallions and along with seeking the right style necklace the perfect length usually measures around eighteen to twenty inches.

Jewelry shopping online has become a more popular option recently. When purchasing a necklace online be sure that if you order something and are disappointed with the fit that it can be returned or exchanged for a different size or style. It can be difficult to visualize the pendant and length of the necklace on an individual when ordering online. Online jewelry purchases can be significantly less expensive. Diamond jewelry, including diamond pendants for your new necklace are significantly cheaper online. Online jewelers are also willing to give buyers a deal for purchasing more than one item at a time. Hint!

DaRoche Jewelers

Spring Time Roof Maintenance

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Taking care of your home is super important as everyone knows. Often times there are things we miss or deem unimportant. One of the items we often take for granted is our homes roof. The fact is that for most of us the roof is out of site out of mind. The reality however is that the roof is one of the most important pieces of the homes architecture and structural components. In theory your roof should be inspected at least once a year by a qualified roofing professional or at least someone with experience that knows what to look for as far as roofing wear.

Roof Inspection Tips For Spring Roofing Maintenance

1) In the fall and spring it is important that you ensure your gutters are clean and free of debris. Debris comes in the form of pine needles, tree leaves and roofing granules. In order for the gutters to work properly and to ensure the water flows freely the gutter and downspouts need to be clean and clear.

2) Spring is the perfect time to have roofs that are older, ten years and above, you will want to inspect the roof during an intense wind/storm. With shingle roofs you will want to look for individual shingles lifting. This would be a good indicator of that the roofs adhesive properties are no longer working as they should. If the adhesive is no longer working your roof becomes prone to exposure that leads to leaks and shingles that blow off.

3) If your home is located in high moisture are you will want to keep moss from your roofing. This can be achieved using a moss killer product specially designed for roofs and sweeping the moss off. You can also try wetting the roof and sweep it off for smaller amounts of moss. Be careful that you are not scrubbing off the shingle roofing granules.

4) Never use a pressure washer on your homes roof. With asphalt shingles a pressure washer will remove the granules which in turn lose the shingles built in sunscreen. Asphalt shingles exposed to UV rays will allow the roof to age faster and your shingles to be brittle. The same is true if you power washer cedar shake roofs. It will lose the water repellant on top of the shingle causing you to have to reseal the entire roof.

It is important that you use caution when inspecting your roof. Professional roofing contractors have the equipment to ensure their safety while doing work on or inspecting the homes roof. Execute the same type of caution when doing roof repairs if you have decided not to pay a professional contractor to come in and do the repairs. The best reason I can give you to hire a professional is that they know exactly what they are looking for and can spot minor issues with your roof before they become major roofing issues. This can save you time and money in the long run. If your roofs lifetime is extended even a few extra years with general maintenance it is worth the little bit of outlay once a year to keep the roof maintained.

Home Pro Roofing MI

Turning Any Home Accessible With Handicap Construction

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

When it comes to aging in place the best plan is to make a plan of action as the day will sneak up on you before you even realize it. Aging happens to us without even letting us have a clue that it is happening. My parents who I still considered incredibly young at sixty five however there are things around the house that I already see becoming increasingly difficult for them to do. My dad of course is still taking on all of the challenges without asking for a bit of help however the day is coming all too soon when he will have no choice.

Each room of the house has its challenges when it comes to aging in place. The same is true when faced with handicap construction for people with special needs. When it comes to kitchen remodels it is important to adjust many aspects within the environment.

One item that is easy to manipulate are the cabinets. Base cabinets can be fitted with roll-out trays making the items easier to reach. Remember as we age bending becomes a bit more difficult. Corner cupboards can be enhanced using a lazy-susan. This accessory allows everything within the space to be glided on a spinning platform which makes the items in the back easier to reach with the rotation of the tray. Also replace cabinet knobs with easy pulls. Aging hands are often arthritic and some pulls can be especially difficult to put your hand around.

Consider replacing the kitchen faucet as well. Knob fashion faucets make it difficult to turn the water on and off. A single levered faucet works well for individuals that have lost hand strength or are simply becoming affected by the ailments that come with the aging process.

The next element to consider is when it comes to the stovetop and oven. The best option, if it is within your budget is to replace gas and electric stovetop areas with induction stovetops. An induction stovetop uses magnetic energy and will only heat the area below and right next to the pot. This reduces the likelihood of injury from burns related to hot stovetops. Not to mention the benefit of less energy used.

Kitchen lighting should illuminate the countertops. This can be done by adding under-wall cabinet lighting. If the work surface is brighter it is easier for elder eyes to work when it comes to slicing vegetables and working on the counter.

The last thing within the kitchen to think about is the flooring. It is necessary to ensure that the flooring is not slippery or filled with throw rugs. If you find the floor surface to be a bit slippery you can use a anti-slip treatment on the floor to help.

Each room in the home with has different handicap construction/age in place needs that need to be met as the aging process begins. The goal is to define issues as they arise and create solutions before they become problems.

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

Keeping Your Online Business Up To Date By Redesigning Your Website

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

It is so exciting to take your business online. It is hard to be unbiased when it comes to looking at the design of your online business. When evaluating your website you need to step back and ask yourself two vital questions; How long has your current site been online and How long has it been since it was last updated? It might actually throw you back a little to realize the amount of time it has been since you updated the information, design and possibly layout of your website.

It is common to have a website designed, online and functioning without paying any attention to it for years. Will it work for growing your online business or reputation? The answer is simple, NO! In order for you online presence to grow, as well as your business, you must keep up with your website. This includes keeping up with the information throughout the site and ensure that it is relevant and up-to-date.

If you current site has an outdated look it is time to update it. A full redesign should be considered as much of the information is probably just as outdated as the design. Think about it this way, when you are looking to purchase a home and the kitchen has not been update since the 80’s what is your initial reaction? I am sure most of you simply pass on the home. The thought being that if the homeowner did not take time to keep up on the design and updates of the house what else has not been kept up on. The same is true of your website design.

The next item I will bring to your attention is more subjective and according to taste. People just enjoy different things. Some people prefer plastic bracelets some prefer gold however the perception is that plastic is cheap and gold in not. The same bias holds true for your website. If your site is done by a professional web designer you should expect a complete different outcome then if you attempt it on your own or higher a high school web designer. The more professional it looks the better the perception from your potential clients.

Another thing to think about when it comes to your site is upkeep. I know I have mentioned this more than once. It is so important that when visitors come to your site they see recent blog posts along with new products, services or even just fresh information.

When it comes to your website and the design a great way to attract customers is to have your contact information visible at first glance. There is nothing more hated than outdated contact information listed that is difficult to locate on the site. A lot of website redesigns include a fresh Logo presence along with strong contact information.

Your website is to the online world as a display window is to a store front. It is how the world will see your product and your company. Keeping up to date on your website will let prospective clients know that you are serious about your business and its longevity thus proving to them that you are in it for the long haul and that they should be as well.

Creative Programs and Systems

Advice From A Professional On Selling Your Home

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Selling your home in today’s market takes a bit of seduction. There are so many homes on the market ranging from short sales, foreclosures to family homes and multi-level homes what will set your home apart from all the rest. What will make your home sell? There are hundreds of tricks sellers use to entice buyers however some work better than others at getting you top dollar. Below you will find ideas and tips on selling your home.

1) Never go it alone. Always hire a real estate professional to assist you in selling your home. An established realtor will know all the correct methods to pursue in marketing your home. Local real estate professionals will have a feel for what is going on with local home buyers and what they are looking for. This will help you target your home to those buyers.

An example of this comes into play when talking about move in condition or a fixer up. Every home has maintenance that can be done, upgrades to enhance and improve the home. If buyers however are looking to make these enhancements on their own, save yourself the time and money. Don’t fix up a home and drop money into it if buyers would rather have a few thousand off the homes initial price verse move in ready. A local realtor will know what buyers in your area are looking for.

2) One tip that has recently become outdated is the theory that the smell of baked goods and candles will help attract buyers. The truth is that when it comes to the smell of smoke, pets or stale cooking the best option is to thoroughly clean the home and not cover up the smells. Buyers are wise to this trick.

The best option is to “spring” clean your home. Every surface should be cleaned. If a pet has ruined the carpet and the scent is saturated it might be beyond cleaning. Scrub the walls, tile, grout and air vents. Furnace filters and water filters can be changed to ensure the water and air in the home is fresh and rid of dust and “old” smell.

3) Looking at homes that are currently being built you will notice many are spacious and open aired. If your home is older you will want to bring in all the natural light you can to make the home look new and fresh. Another top tip is to make the space appear open. This can come from clearing extra furniture from the room. Get rid of the clutter and simplify each room.

The sale of your home is a tedious process. You will be required to keep the house up at all times as showings happen when the time is right for the buyer not necessarily the seller. Your home does not have to be “maid-perfect” for showings. It is okay to show signs of life, signs that the home is lived in and taken care of. Having beds made and rooms picked up in a pinch is just fine. However, if you are having an open house where many buyers and agents will be touring the home take time to clean, dust and freshen up the work you did when beginning to process of selling your home. “Spring” cleaning the home at the start of the home selling process will make each and every showing a little bit easier on you, the seller.

Susan Doyle Real Estate