Livingston Reporting - page 127

Available Options in Pool Plaster

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

If you are one of the people that has managed to install a swimming pool in your backyard, you are living the dream of thousands upon thousands of people everywhere.  After all, who doesn’t love jumping into the water of a pool on a hot and sunny day?

While your pool may currently be in excellent shape, there will be a day when you need to do some pool renovations, especially with the pool plastering.  There are many options available to you when it comes to the pool plaster that can be installed during a pool renovation and you can choose the one that fits your needs the best.

Here are your available options in pool plaster:

Classic White

Classic white pool plaster is basically a mixture of cement, water, and white marble aggregate, and it is going to be your cheapest pool plastering option.  That cheaper price though is due to the fact that this pool plastering will deteriorate quicker from all the chemicals and means that you will need to have it replaced again sooner than later.

Include a Silicone Shield

You may want to have a silicone shield added to your pool plaster, as it creates a barrier between your pool plaster and the chemicals that you use.  That will make your pool plastering more durable and extend the time in between replacements.

Colored Quartz

Any concrete plaster mix can have colored ceramic coated sand added to it, and this colored quartz will not only increase the life expectancy of your pool, but make it look even nicer as well.  This option is more expensive than the classic white option as well as the option with the silicone shield, but the length of time in between pool plastering replacements can make the higher price tag worthwhile.

Pebbled

A pebbled pool plaster has had little pieces of round polished aggregates added to the plaster mix, and since those little pieces of aggregate is available in numerous colors, your color choices are greatly increased with this option.  This is one of the most durable pool plasters available on the market, and if you choose to have this pool plastering completed, it should be quite some time before you need to have it replaced.

No one really enjoys having pool renovations completed on their pool, because it means that it cannot be in use during that time.  However, once your new pool plastering has been put in place, you will be so happy with how your pool looks as you are swimming in it or simply sitting next to it.

Learn more about Pound Pool Plastering and their numerous pool plastering options including: pool resurfacing, plaster surfacing, commercial pool plaster, residential pool plaster, plastering swimming pools, tiling swimming pools, coping swimming pools, and more at www.pound-pool-plastering.com.  To contact our pool plastering specialists call 248.476.4544 today.

Pound Pool Plastering

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Balancing Different Types of Trucking Services with Shippers Needs

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All trucking companies work differently, but at the end of the day, they should all have one goal in mind.  That goal should be fulfilling the needs of the shippers that use their services.  Some shippers may only need to send small packages, while others need the assistance of freight shipping services to get their hauls from one end of the country to the other.

Those completely different needs of shippers require all trucking companies to create a balance between their types of trucking services, so that they always have what their customers want and need.  Of course, that balancing act is never an easy process, but trucking companies can create ways to make it work.

Since shippers like to know when their packages are being picked up and delivered, one of the best things that trucking companies can do is create a schedule that works for practically everyone.  By having specific drop-off and pick-up times and understanding what types of packages are going in and out every day, trucking companies will have an easier time balancing their trucking services.

Most trucking companies love to plan ahead, and create contingency plans as well, so that they are prepared for the unexpected.  That way, a broken-down truck, a late driver, or an additional package will not derail every aspect of the plan.  Instead, trucking companies can simply switch to a back-up plan that is already in place and keep everything on time and running smoothly.

After a while, trucking companies have an idea of the volume that they are dealing with every day and what types of packages that volume is broken down into.  Of course, that volume will change throughout the course of the year, with the holiday season being busier than say the month of February, but successful trucking companies will know their volume for every season.

By knowing the predicted volume, trucking companies can plan on which trucks they need in what areas when.  That will alleviate any issues of not having the trucking service that is needed, because that trucking service is halfway across another state.  Instead, trucking companies will always be prepared to move any type of package to where it needs to go in a timely manner, which will keep all their shippers happy.

Successful trucking companies will also work closely with the shippers that utilize their services, so that they can be informed of an upcoming shipping need that is out of the ordinary.  That will ensure that the trucking company will have the services in place in time and the shipper will not need to wait to send their items out.  Balance is key for almost anything nowadays, but never more so than in the world of trucking companies, where every minute counts.

Learn more about Matrix Transportation and the transportation services they offer including: dedicated truckloads, JIT truckloads, less than truckload (LTL), same day expedited FTL and LTL, full truckload, warehousing, cross-docking, and trailer rentals at www.matrixtransportation.com  To contact one of our trucking experts call toll free 888.896.2405 today.

Matrix Transportation

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Understanding Cataracts and How They Affect Your Vision

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There are several illnesses that creep up on us as we age, cataracts being one of them.  There are misconceptions surrounding cataracts and their treatment.  In this installment on laser vision correction surgery we will investigate cataracts and what can be done to treat them.

When the lens inside of your eye begins to cloud that is known as a cataract.  This can cause a loss in vision that is unable to be corrected with contact lens, glasses, or normal corneal refractive surgeries like LASIK.  This may sound frightening however, modern surgery for cataracts can often restore vision and ease dependency on eyeglasses.

Most often cataracts are associated with the aging process.  Recent studies have shown that upwards of 68% of Americans over 80 years old have been affected by cataracts.  This statistic is expected to continue to grow especially as the population continues to age.  Thankfully, surgery for cataracts is one of the safest, most effective laser vision correction surgeries available.

When surgery for cataracts is performed, the cloudy lens is removed and then replaced with a lens that is artificial, known as intraocular, to restore clear vision. The surgery is an outpatient surgery that is often performed at an eye care center and does not require an overnight stay.  Cataract procedures involve a high-frequency ultrasound device that is used to break up a cloudy lens into small pieces, which are removed with suction.

This procedure is known as phaco and can be performed with tinier incisions than previous techniques.  This helps to promote healing and reduce complications.  When the fragments are completely removed the eye surgeon inserts a clear lens putting it securely behind the iris and pupil in the same location that your natural lens had sat.   Once the cataract is removed and the IOL is inserted and the procedure is completed with your incision being closed. A protective shield is placed over your eye to keep it safe while recovery occurs.

If you suspect your vision is starting to turn gray and cloudy, get into have an eye exam sooner than later.  Cataracts that are caught early are more receptive to treatment which can lead to better outcomes.  Each patient will recover at their own pace however in most cases you will see an improvement in your vision.  Some patients report a glare or halo around bright lights which often disappear within a month.  This is a very rare complication.

If you are looking to reduce or even get rid of your eye glasses and/or contacts let us at Rohr Eye & Laser Center help you! We offer several types of LASIK eye surgery including PRK, AK, CK, Cataracts surgery and more. We perform all these eye laser treatments with state-of-the-art equipment. We are a leader in laser vision correction, and our goal is to help you achieve superior vision. Contact us today or view our website http://www.michiganlasik.com/ to schedule an appointment.

Michigan Lasik

Preventing Roof Damage from Heat and Humidity

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Your homes roof is under constant attach from several fronts.  If you are not careful you can end up with costly repairs that could have been avoided.  You may be surprised to know that wind and hail, normal weather elements that we associate with roof damage are not the biggest threats to your homes roof.  In fact, the two factors that can do far more extensive damage are heat and humidity.

It is wise to hire a roofing contractor to perform a yearly inspection on your homes roof.  This will help homeowners catch potential dangers in the homes attic and rafters before it becomes overwhelming and costly to repair.  Roofing contractors are experienced in seeking out damage that is caused from excessive heat and moisture build up.  If they find you are dealing with potential roof damage they can remedy the situation before you as a homeowner ends up with a costly repair.

Hidden Damage Caused by Heat

While roof vents are installed to help prevent damage caused by the buildup of excessive heat if the vents do not work properly you could end up with the rafters, decking material, and roof joists damage caused by expansion due to the heat. The sun can also cause damage to the flashing whether it is made or metal or plastic, this could lead to moisture getting in. The heat can also cause the shingles on your house to shrink and this could lead to the nails to pop and this will allow more moisture to get.

Hidden Damage Caused by Excessive Moisture

Moisture that can penetrate your roof and getting into the attic space can end up doing a surprising amount of damage to your home. Unless you are someone who goes up into the attic frequently, it may be quite some time before you are able to discover the problem. There are two major issues that can be caused by excessive moisture: mold and condensation.

Mold Damage

When moisture gets into your attic space from under your roof the damage could remain hidden for many years. The excessive moisture can easily cause mold to begin growing on the all the wood and sheetrock where ever it can get in. Depending on how long it takes to find the damage it could end up causing extensive damage to your home before you have any idea.

Excessive Condensation

Damage caused by condensation is generally is thought to come from bathroom vents that have allowed the warm, moist air to get into the attic area. It can also come from leaking dryer venting system that allows the warm air to also enter the attic. If you have noticed any mold growth you would want to eliminate the mold and then add additional insulation.

Learn more about Kearns Brothers, a full-service home improvement contractor servicing all Southeast Michigan’s construction needs by visiting their website at www.kearnsbrothers.com or contact a remodeling expert at 888.355.6700.

Kearns Brothers

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Questions You Need to Ask Before A Bathroom Remodel

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Any renovation around your home, inside or out, should be strategically planned.  Once you are done with a remodel there is no turning back, you can’t change it once it’s complete.  Home improvements, once completed, are yours to enjoy (or hate) for years to come.  We encourage clients to meet with our licensed contractor and designer to discuss their project in detail to discuss the renovation.  Once you have expressed your interests to our contractors and designers they can help to create a space that you will thoroughly enjoy.  Before you commit it is important to take some time to mull over the design to ensure it is going to be perfect.

Here are a few questions to consider as you plan your bathroom remodel:

  • Should your bathroom be practical and useful or lush and lavish?

This is the first thing our licensed contractor and designer will want to know when you meet with them to discuss design options.  A bathroom isn’t a space that most clients plan on spending hours on end in however, they want a space that is simple, attractive, and functional.  However, some homeowners are remodeling their bathroom to create a space that they can retreat away from the stresses that are found in everyday situations.

  • Are you looking to create a larger space or are you planning on utilizing the existing space?

Most often the bathrooms of your home are some of the smallest spaces within the home as they weren’t necessarily the priority that bathrooms, kitchens, closets, and such were given in new construction.   It is vital when planning and budgeting to decide if you need a larger space or are fine within the space you have.  It will be important for our designers to look at the architecture of your home, along with the floor plan to determine if the space can be expanded or if they will need to create a design based the space provided.

  • Would you like a shower, a bathtub, or a combination?

Lounging in a bathtub has become something many homeowners have given up.  Maybe they don’t have the time or desire.  Whatever the case may be, leaving out a tub can make room in the budget for extras elsewhere, like a shower with multiple shower heads. If you do decide you would like the combination of a bathtub and shower our designers will plan a space accordingly to ensure your comfort and maximize relaxation.

  • How much storage will you need?

The storage within a small space such as a bathroom is of utmost importance.  The amount of storage that you need will depend on what you choose to store in the space.  Are you storing just the basics like toiletries and towels or do you need to have room to keep other daily use necessities such as a hair dryer, makeup, and such.

JFC Remodeling, out of Howell, Michigan, offers a variety of construction services for the home including: kitchen and bath remodeling, flooring renovations, and home remodeling.  You can find out more information at http://www.jfcremodeling.com or by reaching out to our home renovation specialists at 810.923.1123.

Jason Foldenauer Construction

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Understanding Your Business’s Breaker Panel

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Technology has been growing faster and faster in recent years, and your business seems to need to use it all to keep up with your competition.  All those computers and other technological devices that are helping your business grow are taking up more power and space in your business’s breaker panel, which can lead to trouble after a while.

That means that your breaker panel eventually may not be large enough to handle everything and you may find that your company will go in the dark every so often.  There are a few signs that you should look out for to see if it is time to replace your business’s breaker panel.  One of the most noticeable things that you will see are flickering lights.  While you may think that your light bulbs just need to be changed, the fact is that you may need a new breaker panel installed instead.

Another sign may be that your panel switches keep tripping and shutting things down.  This may not be a big deal the first time that it happens, but after a while, it can affect the productivity of your work.  You should also be able to read what each panel switch is connected to, and if you can’t then it can be difficult to know which panel switches to flip when you need to cut the power to something in your office.

Strange buzzing noises or popping sounds are never a good sign either, and anything like that can quickly cause an electrical fire to start.  You may want to try to ignore many of these signs, in hopes that you can just get by to save money, but we recommend getting these things fixed immediately.

Here at we offer for sale an abundance of reconditioned electrical surplus options.  All our reconditioned breaker panels meet the strictest safety requirements, and if it weren’t for the lower cost, you would have no idea that these units were reconditioned when you look at them.

We can find a new breaker panel that will fit your current and future needs in our reconditioned electrical surplus and install it quickly, so that your business does not experience too much downtime.  Since these breaker panels are ready to go, all we need to do is hook them up and attach everything before turning them on.  This is much cheaper than rewiring and the many other options that some other electrical companies offer.

We know that your time is valuable to your business, and we have found that using reconditioned electrical surplus items can save you that time as well as a lot of money.

Learn more about J & P Electrical Company and their vast line of new, surplus, and refurbished industrial electrical components including: circuit breakers, bus ducts, bus plugs, disconnects, fuses, panel switches, tap boxes, and transformers at www.jpelectricalcompany.com.  To contact one of our product reconditioning specialists, call 877.844.5514 today.

J & P Electrical Company

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Deciding Which Style of Ornamental Aluminum Fencing Compliments Your Home

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Many people seem to think that they can choose any type of fencing for their yard and it will instantly match their home and improve their curb appeal.  However, that is not always the case, because some housing styles look better with specific fencing options over others.  That means that you will need to do a little research before purchasing the fencing that you have had your heart set on for years, because it won’t do you any good to purchase your dream fencing to only have it decrease the value of your home.

Aluminum fences are available in many different styles and colors, so that material is going to be your best option when you are shopping for a fence.  A few of the different styles that aluminum fencing is available in include two or three rails, arches, pickets, finials, and even flat tops.  A lightweight style can provide amazing curb appeal, but you may prefer the conventional wrought iron designs that will allow you to place the picket points wherever you want.

Many homeowners prefer pickets that are placed in a uniform order, but that doesn’t mean that you need to do the same type of installation on your property.  Instead, your aluminum fencing can have staggered pickets or even smooth surrounded pickets.

If you do not like the idea of pickets sticking upright, we recommend choosing an aluminum fencing that has a top rail over the pickets.  That top rail will keep everyone safe while also keeping your aluminum fence looking streamlined and beautiful.  You may also want to consider adding accessories like ball caps, scrolls, or even finials to your aluminum fencing to add a unique feature that will make it stand out from the rest of the fencing in your neighborhood.

Many aluminum fences that are installed are black however, that doesn’t mean you cannot choose to install aluminum fencing in a color.  Of course, you will want to make sure that those colors will match the current style of your home.

The best part of aluminum fencing is that once you choose your preferred style and color, you can also choose the height that will meet your needs.  A shorter fence can be used around your property if desired, while a taller fence always works better around swimming pools.

You will want to look at many different types of aluminum fences before choosing the one that you want to install around your home, as your first choice is not always your best option.

iFenceUSA is an online manufacturer and distributor of wholesale aluminum fencing. With over 18 styles of aluminum fence panels and gates to choose from, we have aluminum fences that will meet your wants and need.  Choose from custom aluminum fencing options including: Commercial Grade Aluminum Fencing, Residential Grade Aluminum Fencing, Pool Grade Aluminum Fencing, and Industrial Aluminum Fencing all at https://ifenceusa.com/.  For more information contact one of our aluminum fence experts toll free 800.762.2907 or via email at info@ifenceusa.com.

iFenceUSA

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Using Smart Technology in Age in Place Renovations

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You do not need to be old or in poor health before you begin doing a little age in place remodeling, and in fact, you are quite intelligent if you choose to do it prior to the time you will need it.  While you have plenty of options available to you for age in place remodeling, one stands out more than the rest.  That option is using smart technology, and most of it will make your life super easy, both now and in the future.

Here are 5 types of smart technology that you should include in your age in place renovations:

  • Personal Assistance Devices

There are a couple different personal assistance devices available on the market, and you can choose whether you prefer Google’s Home, Amazon’s Alexa, or one of the others.  This device can remind you to take your medications, that your doctor’s appointment is coming up, or even to call your doctor.  You can even ask these devices a question that you do not know the answer to and it will give you the answer.

  • Smart Lights

You will not need to worry about walking around in the dark as you search for a light switch after you include smart lights in your age in place remodeling plan.  Smart lights can be turned on and off from an app on a smartphone or tablet and they can keep you from falling unnecessarily.

  • Video Doorbells

Older people are often targets for criminals and other unsavory people, but you can install a video doorbell during an age in place remodel to prevent a disaster from happening.  You can see who is on your front step, as well as carry on a conversation with them, all without opening the door or moving from where you are.

  • CookStop Devices

Leaving a stove on can be quite dangerous for anyone, which is why the CookStop devices were created.  You can install the CookStop and it will automatically turn your stove off after it has been on for a predetermined amount of time.  You can adjust the settings to meet your needs, and an alarm will always alert you right before it turns the stove off, so that you can turn it back on if necessary.

  • Keyless Door Locks

Fumbling with keys can be a thing of the past once you install a keyless door lock during your age in place remodel.  You can purchase one that needs to be opened via an app on your smartphone or you can choose one that you push the buttons and enter a code to get the lock to flip open.

All this smart technology will be of great assistance to you and it can all be installed during an age in place remodeling project.  You could wait to do an age in place remodel, but then you wouldn’t be able to use all this wonderful technology now.

Learn more about licensed and insured general contractor Glen Miller the Home Doctor and the variety of home improvement services he offers clients including: home maintenance plans, handyman services, kitchen remodels, bathroom renovations, handicap ramp installations, age in place modifications, basements transformations, and hardwood flooring installation and refinishing at www.glenmillerthehomedoctor.com.  To contact Glen Miller the Home Doctor call 734.255.9793 for a free estimate.

 

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

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The Struggles of Planning a Summer Wedding

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Summer weddings are every bride’s dream until they realize that there are many things that can and will go wrong on their big day.  Unfortunately, not everything that can go wrong can be controlled, which means that summer brides need to be prepared to go with the flow and accept each unexpected event that comes their way.  Thankfully, a wedding consultant can help the bride and groom through the entire planning process, which should make things go a little smoother on the big day.

Almost every bride that wants a summer wedding also wants their ceremony and reception to be outside.  And who wouldn’t?  After all, bright blue skies, a couple of white puffy clouds, the glow of the sun, and birds chirping in the backyard all sound like each summer bride would have an idyllic day!

However, on the day of a summer wedding, many brides may face dark, threatening clouds that want to open and send rain pouring down any second, or such brutal winds that either no one can hear the wedding vows, or everyone is getting blown away.  The weather obviously can be controlled but our reaction to it can be and will of course set the tone for the rest of the event.

The first thing that a wedding planner will have couples do for their summer wedding is send out save the date cards.  After all, summer is a busy time full of vacations, summer camps, and more, and there is nothing worse than planning a wedding that no one can attend.

Couples will want to plan their ceremony for a later time in the day, so that they do not need to deal with the intense heat of the midday hours.  The only problem with that is everything after the ceremony ends up starting later and not every guest enjoys staying out till midnight as they are waiting for the wedding cake to be cut.  A wedding consultant can be quite helpful in these situations, because they can keep things moving in an orderly fashion.

The food that is served during a wedding can be an issue for summer weddings as well, because it needs to be kept at proper temperatures.  Cold foods can be almost impossible to keep cold unless they are set inside buckets of ice, and while hot foods can easily stay warm, it doesn’t take too long before those foods have bacteria growing in them either.  A wedding planner can be helpful at this point of the day, because they can make sure that the food is being kept at the proper temperatures, so that no one ends up getting ill afterwards.

Since not every guest is going to love the heat of the summer, couples are going to want to be prepared with ways to keep their guests cool and comfortable from the beginning of the ceremony until the end of the reception.  A wedding consultant can bring portable air conditioners to be used inside tents, while fans can be used near where the guests sit for the ceremony.  Ice-cold water should be available in more than one location, and a wedding planner will want to make sure that they order twice the amount that they think that everyone will go through or they will take a chance of running out.

It can be interesting trying to plan a summer wedding, but wedding consultants have planned so many that they know all the issues that can pop up at any given time.  The experience that wedding planners bring to each wedding will ensure that a couple never needs to be too stressed out over anything that may or may not happen on their big day.

Event Planning DC provides full event planning, partial event planning, month-of (day-of) event coordination, event styling/design and decorating services throughout DC, Maryland, and Virginia, with access to local and national vendors who may provide additional services suitable for your event and budget.  We pride ourselves on providing only the highest quality event coordination, giving you and your guests the perfect day, no matter what the occasion including exclusive corporate and non-profit events, weddings, Bar & Bat Mitzvahs, community events and milestone celebrations.  Contact the professionals at Event Planning DC http://www.eventplanningdc.com today!

 

 

Event Planning DC

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The Purpose of Bankruptcy

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No one ever really wants to file for bankruptcy, but there are times when it can be unavoidable for many.  People will want to file for bankruptcy if they have quite a bit of debt and no way to possibly pay it off during their lifetime.

The main purpose of bankruptcy is to give everyone a fresh start in life without a mountain of debt hanging over their head, while also allowing their creditors to collect at least some of the money that is owed to them.  After paying their creditors the amount that the bankruptcy courts tell them to, they will no longer be responsible for any of their remaining debt to those creditors.

There are six different types of bankruptcy filing options, although, only two of them are meant for regular people.  Chapter 7 bankruptcy will find people liquidating everything that they own to pay off their debts, while Chapter 13 will allow a person to keep their home as they are repaying all their creditors.  However, both options will allow everyone to keep most of their property and assets in the end if they qualify for certain exemptions.

The other four bankruptcy options include Chapter 9, Chapter 11, Chapter 12, and Chapter 15.  Chapter 9 can only be filed by a municipality and basically requests a reorganization process for that area.  Chapter 11 is usually used by commercial organizations as they try to reorganize their assets to pay off debts.

Chapter 12 is the bankruptcy code that farmers and fishermen need to file under if their business is not going well due to circumstances out of their control.  Through this process, a bankruptcy lawyer can help them create a plan to get out of debt within three years, unless the court allows for a longer time frame.

Chapter 15 is for cross-border cases, where the creditor and debtor live in different countries.

Everyone is encouraged to hire a bankruptcy lawyer to assist them through the entire bankruptcy process, so that they can file for the proper chapter of bankruptcy.  After all, the entire bankruptcy system is quite complex and there are many legal terms and phrases that people may not know or understand.  It can be quite easy for a person to get lost in the process, which is why the guidance of a bankruptcy lawyer is always a good option.

Anyone that chooses to not hire a bankruptcy lawyer may find themselves worse than they were before, especially if they need to pay their creditors more than they should in a shorter amount of time.  The goal of bankruptcy is to get out of debt and move on with life, not continue to feel stuck for a longer period of time.

Bohikian Law Group specializes in chapter 7 and chapter 13 bankruptcies in Michigan. Contact us today to find a bankruptcy attorney that will help you in debt relief at http://www.bohikianlaw.com/ today.

Bohikian Law

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