Livingston Reporting - page 131

What Happens to Your Medigap Coverage When You Move to a New State

Medigap plans have become immensely popular in recent years because of numerous added advantages they offer over Original Medicare, Part A and Part B. Many people, across the US, are opting for this coverage so that they more of their healthcare costs that are generally not included in the coverage of their original Medicare insurance.

A general question that many people have related to their Medigap supplement insurance is that what will happen to it if they are moving to another state. If you are looking for an accurate answer to this question, you have landed at the right place.

In case you have purchased a Medigap plan and are planning to move to another state, there is no requirement to buy a new plan. This is due to the fact that Medigap supplement insurance plans are the same across the US, apart from three unusual states. However, people who have enrolled in Medicare Advantage Plans, they may face certain issues as it comes with some limitations. They can only use health care providers that are located within the network of this plan.

If you have relocated to an area that doesn’t fall within in the network of your Medicare select plan, the sole option you have is to buy a new Medigap supplement insurance plan that offers similar, if not the same, benefits you were obtaining from the Medicare select plan. The added advantage here for you will be that you won’t be required to undergo medical underwriting. This will save you from paying extra charges due to your health condition. In worst case scenarios, the insurance company may refuse to offer you a Medigap plan. However, this advantage can only be obtained if you had purchased Medicare Select plan 6 months prior to relocating to a new state.

In the case where you have a Medigap plan and have moved to a new state, you may have to pay a higher or lower premium after relocation. This depends on the Medigap rates in the states you have moved to. If the rates are more expensive, the premium value you pay monthly will increase and vice versa.

There is also a possibility of finding a Medigap policy in the new state you have moved in that is less expensive as compared to the one that you already one. In such a situation, all you have to do is to submit a new application for getting a new Medigap policy.

As stated above, Medigap plans are standardized in most of the states of the US. However, if you are moving to one of these states: Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Massachusetts, you may have to buy a different Medigap policy as these states have individual standardized plans.

To sum it up, if you want to continue obtaining the added advantages of your Medigap plan, do complete research on the state you are moving to regarding the rates and plans offered there and take the decision accordingly.

Learn more about Medigap plans and rates at http://emedigap-plans.com.  Medigap Insurance brokers will help you compare Medigap Insurance rates and plans.  To talk to an expert in Medigap coverage call toll free 888-452-7949!

Medicare Mistakes That Can Cost You

Medicare supplement insurance plans are devised to aid people to pay for their health care expenses. It isn’t wrong to state these policies are blessings to those who are suffering from certain medical ailments. However, for some people, a Medicare supplement plan can actually prove to be costly because of the common mistakes made when selecting a Medigap plan.

Not Choosing the Right Policy

One of the biggest mistake people make when buying Medicare supplement plans is that they choose the wrong policy. Thus, not all of their medical visits are covered. As a result, they still have to pay for them and the plan isn’t as effective for them as they had thought of. Therefore, it is important to thoroughly go through different Medicare supplement insurance plans, know their details, and take the decision accordingly.

Not Signing Up at the Right Time

This is another common mistake made by people that cost them in the long run. Those people who have already received their social security, they are automatically signed up for Medicare. However, for those who haven’t, it is important to sign up at the right time to avoid facing premium penalties.

Not Signing Up for Part D

Some people believe that buying part D Medicare supplement insurance plans is a mere waste of money if they don’t use prescribed drugs. However, this is a mistake that can cost them a fortune. This is because no one can predict the injuries or diseases they may suffer from in the future for which they require the use of prescribed drugs that can burn a hole in their pockets. Therefore, it is advised to sign up for part D so in order to avoid late penalties and get expensive drugs easily in case of emergency.

Not Paying Attention to Annual Notice of Change

All those people who have signed up for Medicare advantage plan or Part D, they receive notice of change in September every year. This notice contains vital information about changes in premiums and coverages. It is important to carefully read this notice of change and compare the premium price and coverage details of the current year with the next year. This will help you to decide whether you need to change your plan or stick to the current one. However, many people tend to ignore this notice of change and end up paying more for their Medicare policy.

There you go! These are some of the common mistakes that the owners of Medicare supplement insurance plans make and end up paying a lot more than they should. It is firmly recommended to avoid making any of these mistakes with regards to your Medicare policies so that you can avail the maximum benefits out of them without disturbing your budget a great deal.

Learn more about Medicare Supplemental Insurance plans, rates and more at http://www.emedicare-supplemental-insurance.com.  Medicare Supplemental Insurance brokers will help you compare Medicare Supplemental Insurance rates and plans.  To talk to an expert in Medicare coverage toll free 877-202-9248 today!

The Difference Between Parcel Shipping and LTL Shipping

On paper, parcel and less than truckload shipping may seem similar. However, there are plenty of differences between the two. Wondering what these differences are? You will find your answers in this post.

Size of the Package

Also known as LTL trucking, less than truckload shipping generally carries large packages. Hence, if you have a bulky package, LTL shipping is a better option for you out of the two. On the other hand, parcel shipping is preferred by many people for smaller and lightweight packages.

Damage Risk Factor

Another differentiating factor between the two options is the risk of damage. With LTL trucking, the risk is relatively lower since there are limited check-ins as they are bulky. Thus, fewer hands on the packages and ultimately fewer chances of damage. However, it depends on freight trucking specialists who are at the helm of shipping parcels.

Cost-Efficient

Parcel shipping is considered to be more a cost-efficient way to ship goods. The major reason why LTL trucking rates are higher is their bulky size. They end up consuming more space; thus, the more charges are applied by the freight trucking specialists. There is no such issue with parcel shipping; therefore, charges are generally lower.

Easy Tracking

With parcel shipping, there is an added benefit of easy tracking. This is due to the fact that there are different checkpoints through which packages in a parcel shipping method have to go through. Hence, it is easy to locate the parcel when it is in the shipping phase.

Risk of Losing a Parcel

The risk of losing the package is greater in case of parcel shipping. As parcels are less than 150 pounds, they can easily be misplaced or lost. On the other hand, no such issue is associated with LTL shipping. The parcels in LTL shipping, as stated above, are generally bulky. They need assistance to be carried, unlike parcel shipping. Therefore, the chances of losing a package are quite fewer with LTL shipping.

The Shape of the Parcel

If you have packages in a unique shape, it is recommended to go for LTL shipping. The reason behind this recommendation is that LTL carriers generally use forklifts instead of conveyor belts. On conveyor belts, oddly shaped packages are often at the risk of falling off the belt. Hence, they can sustain damages.

Technological Advancement

When it comes to technological advanced, parcel shipping has surged ahead of LTL shipping. It is more automated; the process of carrying goods is more streamlined.

Chances of Delay

Chances of delay are more in case of parcel shipping. This is because packages are initially loaded onto pallets. Then, they are distributed into small trunks. These trunks then reach a delivery van from where they are sent to the recipients.

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.

 

Leave It to The Pros! Why DIY Siding is a Bad Idea

Want to improve the exterior décor of your home? The best option to consider is new exterior siding. It will not only improve the exterior décor but improve the value of your home as well. Moreover, it will also improve the energy efficiency of your home.

Siding that is over forty years old should consider getting it replaced as part of an exterior home improvement plan. It will add freshness to the curb appeal of your home and improve its overall look.

Many people make the mistake of relying on DIY methods instead of leaving it to professionals when it comes to siding. It brings a lot of hassles, chaos, and of course, consumes a lot of time. Hence, it is recommended to leave it to the pros and get the process completed in a professional manner.

Here are some of the reasons why leaving siding to the professional is a better idea than doing it on your own.

Lack of Professionals

A prominent factor that goes in favor of the pros for exterior siding is that they are professionals. Hence, they can employ professional techniques to complete the whole siding project in an efficient manner. On the other hand, opting for DIY methods require so much time, effort, and energy. Despite spending hours or days in completing side project, you may still not get the desired results.

Lack of Expertise and Experience

Hiring professional exterior contractors for a siding project is also recommended since they have the required expertise and experience, which a layman doesn’t have. There is a vast difference in the result of an exterior siding project that is completed by a professional and a layman. This is due to the fact that professionals use their experience, skills, and extensive knowledge optimally to ensure the project is completed in a timely and professional manner.

No Access to Required Tools & Gears

An exterior siding project requires the use of certain tools and gears, which, generally a layman doesn’t have access to. They either have to buy or rent them that can burn a hole in their pockets. On the other hand, if you are relying on exterior contractors, there will be no such issue since the advanced tools and gears will be arranged by the professionals themselves.

Chances of Chaos, Mess, and Hassles

An exterior siding project can create a lot of hassles and chaos if not done properly. Furthermore, there will be a lot of mess left behind that will further add to the hassles. With hiring professionals, the whole process will be completed in a smooth and efficient manner. There will be no hassles, mess, and chaos at all.

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

Fused Disconnect Switch vs Circuit Breakers

For all those people who are looking for major differences between fused disconnect switches and circuit breakers, this post will eradicate all your confusions and help you to make the best choice. Before proceeding further, let’s shed some light on why you need devices such as circuit breaker panels and fused disconnect switches.

Electrical circuits in residential and commercial establishments are designed to carry a certain amount of current. Due to any reason, if more current passes through them, it can lead to dire circumstances where sensitive appliances and equipment can be destroyed. In some situations, this overflow of current through electrical circuits can also result in a fire that can prove to be extremely fatal for the inmates of the building.

In order to prevent such a situation from happening, different devises such are used that serve the purpose of protecting overcurrent in wires. These devices, in a current overflow situation, disconnect or open the circuit. This helps in preventing the fire from erupting. Thus, there are fewer chances of any damage to be caused to appliances and equipment installed in the building. Devices such as circuit breaker and fused disconnect switch also work in case of short-circuit situations.

Now that you are aware of the basic function of both these devices; let’s now have a look at major differences between them.

Fused Disconnect Switch

A fused disconnect switch, as the name suggests, is a combination of a fuse and switch. The fuse shuts the circuit off and switch disconnects it in case of an issue. Switches are designed to be shut the power off manually. On the other hand, fuse works in the opposite way. They are made up of a small filament that melt down in case of a current overflow. A fuse’s current rating is preset. Thus, when the current exceeds the rating of the fuse for a longer period of time it melts automatically. As a result, the circuit is disconnected.

A point to note here is that when a fuse disconnects the circuit, it can be used again. Power can only be restored if the fuse is replaced by a new one.

Circuit Breaker

With circuit breaker, there is no issue of getting a new fuse every time it turns the power off due to the overflow of current or short-circuit. Thus, it is often considered a better option for many appliances. Circuit breaker panels can also be turned off in a manual way as they also serve the functions of a switch. This feature makes them handy if you want to do get some electrical work done in the building.

A circuit breaker disconnects the circuit automatically with the help of an electromagnet it features when it detects overflow of current or a short-circuit. After the problems have been fixed, it only needs to be turned back on for restoring power.

A Final Word

To sum it up, both these devices can help a great deal to eliminate issues caused by the overflow of current or short-circuit. As stated above, a circuit breaker disconnects the circuit both automatically and manually and a fused disconnect switch offers the same purpose. The difference lies in their design and functionality. Thus, when selecting them, take into consideration the electrical requirements of your premises for taking the best decision.

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.

 

Most Popular Bathroom and Kitchen Remodeling Trends of 2018

More and more people are looking to stay in their current homes longer and not having to go through the hassle of selling their home and buying a new one in order to get something new that they don’t currently have. This makes contractors and interior designers really happy because it gives them more opportunities to help people figure out how to breathe new life into their old house.

It seems every year there are new trends and new ideas in the remodeling world and two of the more popular spaces in the home to remodel is the kitchen and bathrooms. This article will be looking into new trends for 2018 in order to help give you some ideas for your own home.

The Top 5 Trends in the Bathroom and Kitchen in 2018

 

For the Bathroom

Smaller, more efficient size – Smaller sometimes is better and in the case of today’s bathrooms smaller has become better. Fitting more into a small space is definitely the in thing.

 

High tech toilet – Features like heated seats, automatic opener/closers, air drying and even some with built-in automatic deodorizers.

 

The revival of the brass and gold fixtures – The use of gray tones in bathrooms now are beckoning to the return of the brass or gold tone fixtures to add a much less chrome look.

 

New style vanity lighting – Lighting in today’s bathroom is much more a much more integral part of the bathroom designs. There are much more options in lighting with pendants and lighting bars to go along with the sconces.

 

Underfloor heating – In the colder climates, having the floor warmed under your feet in the winter adds that extra touch of luxury.

 

For the Kitchen

 

The smart kitchen – Smart kitchens today have gone beyond the smart appliances to include motion sensing faucets and lighting that can be controlled by your smartphone. We are almost to the point of the nearly automated kitchen.

 

Cabinet colors – White cabinets are still number one for cabinet colors with a light gray a distant second. However, when there is an island there should be darker colors to contrast all of the white or light grays.

 

New textures and material – The trend has been reducing the number of upper cabinets to give the kitchen a more open look and feel. Having open shelving where storage is needed and more textures to the backsplash for the necessary focal points.

 

Quartz countertops – Quartz countertops are still all the rage since there is such a wide range of colors you can choose, and they look fabulous all the time.

 

In cabinet storage systems – With kitchens almost never having enough room or a pantry is not always an option, in cabinet storage is a simple solution that would work in almost all situations.

 

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.

Securing Your Homes Perimeter with Aluminum Fencing

As a property owner, it is important to select the right fence for your property to ensure that you are meeting the needs of your home and family. The purpose of the fence installation also matters and needs to be taken into consideration when you making the final decision. Fencing can be used to simply mark and post the boundaries of your entire property all the way around, as a safety device around swimming pools, or even protection from intruders.

 

Benefits of Choosing Aluminum Fencing 

 

When it comes to selecting the best material for perimeter fencing for your property it is extremely important that you take into considerations such as maintenance, durability, cost, and so on.  There are a number of benefits of choosing aluminum fencing over other types of fencing including:

 

  • Provides a high level of security around the full perimeter of your property
  • It can be customized to fit into a wide range of situations
  • High–quality aluminum material that is durable and rust proof
  • Comes in a number of colors to fit in with any exterior décor
  • A suitable, less costly, substitute for wrought iron
  • Less expensive than other types of ornamental fencing

 

Top 6 Reasons to select an Aluminum

 

#1 Aluminum fencing is highly durable: Durability is the best aspect of aluminum as a fencing material since it does not react at all with the environment. Unlike steel or wrought iron, it will never show signs of rust, corrosion. It will always keep its great looks no matter the exposure to the elements.

 

#2 Aluminum is highly cost-effective: When compared to other materials like; wrought iron or steel. Aluminum alloy is much cheaper of a material, to begin with you should focus on getting the highest quality that you can afford. You will also save money over the life of the fence in lower maintenance costs.

 

#3 Much easier to repair than other materials: Since it is not quite as strong as steel or wrought iron there will come a time that you will need to replace sections of the aluminum fencing. It is however much easier to repair sections of the aluminum fence than most any other type of materials.

 

#4 A lot less maintenance required: Since aluminum does not rust or corrode you will not have to be constantly clean it up or even repainting it. This is far different from that of steel or wrought iron that requires quite a bit more maintenance and upkeep to keep them looking good.

 

#5 Aluminum fencing is highly customizable: Aluminum fencing comes in a wide range of heights and it can be installed on a number of different grades. It also comes in a rainbow of different colors and the finish looks great and it maintains its great look much longer. Aluminum can also be molded in a number of decorative shapes as well.

 

#6 Aluminum fencing is versatile: Along with looking great, it can be used in a wide range of places like around your backyard pool. It can be used on stairs and balconies to safety purposes.

 

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.

 

 

Thinking About Replacing Your Roof? Consider These Few Upgrades

Replacing your roof is a big decision that takes careful consideration. The whole process can not only prove to be a daunting one but can also disturb your home remodeling budget greatly. Furthermore, it can also disturb your normal routine activities because of the construction work going on in your home. Therefore, before you opt for the idea of re-roofing or replacing your roof, consult local roofing contractors and consider these few upgrades that can not only improve the curb appeal of your home but also enhance its value. Have a look at these roof upgrade ideas:

Overlaying

This upgrade method has a lot of perks. It is less costly and requires less labor. Instead of stripping off the roofing material altogether, a layer of shingle is installed on the existing one to give the roof a new and improved look. Since the old roof is not completely stripped off; thus, it doesn’t take a longer duration if you are opting for overlaying. Furthermore, all other costs and expenses related to constructing a new roof are eliminated. This factor makes it a cost-efficient method.

For the best overlaying results, you need to rely on a reputed local shingle roofing company that excels in providing roof overlaying services.

Go for a Different Shaped Shingling

When reroofing, it is advised to go for different shaped shingles rather than opting for the traditional ones. It will give your home a distinct look and add value to it. For a different look, you can opt for zigzags or diamond shape. You can also take help of your local roofing contractors in this matter.

Reflective Shingles

Whether you are going for overlaying or tearing off, make sure you are going for reflective shingles. Not only they are aesthetically pleasing but energy-efficient as well. Since they reflect the sunlight, it doesn’t enter your home, as a result, your home can stay cooler during the hot summer days. There will be a reduced dependency on cooling systems, which will help to bring the electricity bills down. A prominent feature of reflective shingles is that they are now available in an array of materials and colors; thus, you can have an array of choice to select the best ones for your roof.

Make Sure the Roof is Ventilated

Last but not the least, it is important to make sure that your new roof is ventilated. It will help to keep your home cooler. A ventilated roof is particularly helpful for homes that have an attic. In case the roof is not ventilated, attics will heat up.

There are different ways to make a roof ventilated. Contact your local roofing contractors and they will be able to suggest the best possible ways after a thorough inspection of the roof.

Learn more about Home Pro Roofing and their vast line of custom roofing options installed by professional roofing contractors including: asphalt shingle roofing, metal roofing, roof repair, and new roof installation at www.homeproroofingmi.com.  Our roofing contractors offer services throughout Michigan including: Kalamazoo, Brighton, Lansing, and the surrounding areas.

Remodeling for a More Accessible Home For Seniors

As people age, there always seems to be more and more limitation that makes it difficult for them to be able to do the simple things that they once took for granted. Whether it not being able to climb the stairs like you used to, to be able to stand for long periods of time or even reach items in the kitchen like you used to. All of these things could happen over time or change due to a medical issue that makes it difficult to do the things that you use to do with relative ease.

 

These days more and more families are taking in their senior parents rather than see them have to live out their senior years in a home. While some medical reasons may make that necessary, most people would rather make it where their parents can either stay in their own home longer or simply move into their home.

 

To be able to do this there are often things that can be done to remodel their home or your home in order to make life a bit better for them. Some things are quite easy and other things will require a bit of remodeling and that usually means hiring a contractor and could cost a pretty penny. Below is a short list of some of the things that we came up with. Remember, not all of these will apply to your unique situation.

 

10 Things to consider when remodeling for a senior person

 

Pay attention to the specific needs of your senior parent or loved one – Always remember that you are doing this for your loved one and you need to include them in any changes to be sure they fit with them. One size remodeling truly does not fit all.

 

Be sure you have a complete plan of what you want to do – Be sure to formulate a plan and put it in writing so that you have something to follow when you go to put your plan into action.

 

If you have any doubts bring in a professional to evaluate the home – While you may be able to come up with some good ideas, you may want to have a professional come in and evaluate the home and make some recommendation.

 

Remove any obstruction in all access points – A very simple change that virtually anyone can make is to remove any and all obstructions at points of entry in a room. When you have difficulty walking even a bump in the carpeting can cause an obstruction.

 

Talk to all of the professional caregivers of your parents to get ideas – Another great resource for you to consider is to talk to all of the people who provide care for them to get some ideas on how to make their home life better.

 

Get a professional contractor – When the time comes that you need to do any type of structural changes to your home you should bring in a professional contractor for advice and help.

 

No-step entry is the first best step – Like the obstructions at all access points into/out of a room, a no-step entry point into and out of the home is a must. This will more than likely require you to hire a professional.

 

Consider pocket doors versus swinging doors – Turning door knobs and twisting handles on doors can be difficult for seniors, if it is possible you should consider replacing all of them in the home.

 

Electric stair lifts – Having a two-story home climbing stairs for many seniors is not only a chore but at times it can be potentially extremely dangerous. If you can afford it look into the electric stair lifts, it will give all of you peace of mind.

 

Reconfiguring the home – If climbing stairs are completely out of the question then you should immediately look into reconfiguring the lower level to have everything on one that level for them.

 

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.

 

Twists on Wedding Guest Books

A wedding is one of those occasions that is both steeped in tradition but still has a sense of uniqueness for the couple who are celebrating their vows with their family and friends. There is much planning that goes into preparing for the monumental day for the couple and part of preparation is something that will help them remember that day far into the future.

 

One of those items is the guestbook, this is where all people who attend the wedding ceremony sign in and create a permanent record of all of the people who witnessed the big occasion. Most guest books are as the name would imply, a book with a fancy cover and pages for the guests to sign their name. However, if you are looking for a unique way to remember that special day and want to find a unique idea for a different type of guest “book”, that is not really a book.

 

10 Unique alternatives to the traditional guest book

 

The Wedding Tree – This unique framed tree with numerous leaves that are ready for each guest to sign on when they arrive at the wedding location.

 

The Custom Design – You can add unique pictures of you and your spouse to be on each page as a way to change up the traditional guest book.

 

The Bucket List – The Bucket List is a unique way that you can get your guest to sign in and leave a special note that they see fit.

 

The Puzzle Pieces – This really unique idea can be an especially good choice as it can be taken out every year and looked at to bring back memories of the special day.

 

The Fingerprint Tree – The fingerprint tree or flower depending on your preference, is an interesting way for your guests to leave their mark on your special day.

 

Love Notes – Love Notes is a very unique idea that you and your guests might really enjoy that it is interactive. You encourage your guests to leave a special note about you, your spouse or the both of you.

 

Photo Booth – The Photo Booth is a really popular thing these days for parties and you can work this is in as guest book by having your guests have their picture taken and sign the picture and drop it a box.

 

The Big Letter – The Big Letter is one of the most iconic weddings gives and you can turn one of these into a guest book and have all of your guests sign a different part of the letter.

 

Calendar Reminder – This is one of the more unique ideas, in that you have your guests sign in on their birthday.

 

Beautiful Board – For the DIYer in you, this beautiful board idea is about as unique as you can get. Decorate a nice plank of wood and have your leave a note or just simply sign in.

 

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!