Livingston Reporting - page 219

Choosing Between Chain Link and Aluminum Fencing

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

There are many options in fencing.  Two of the most popular options homeowners choose between are aluminum fencing and chain link fencing.  Let’s face the facts here though; one option is clearly more aesthetic then the other.  Chain link fencing is clearly not the more attractive of the two options although it is the most cost effective however both options are practically maintenance free.  Between the two there are a few other differences between chain link fencing and aluminum fencing to consider.

One consideration between the two, chain link and aluminum fencing, is the value that they bring to the property.  Any type of fencing is an investment in your home.   Choosing a style of fencing that best meets your needs along with the style of your home can work to increase the value of your home and therefore offer an increase in equity upon the sale of the home.  This is something homeowners must consider when choosing between fencing materials.

Chain link fencing offers the most cost effective solution for the short term but offers a low aesthetic appeal.  While aluminum fencing is attractive and offers a high visual appeal but tends to be a bit more costly then chain link.  In the long term chain link fencing may end up costing homeowners more with the low visual appeal, maintenance and ability to rust. All of which can end up lowering your overall property value.  Also, many homeowner associations and neighborhoods have restrictions against chain link fences.  Aluminum on the other hand offers numerous decorative styles and colors to choose from.  It is also incredibly sturdy and resistant to changes in climate. Aluminum fencing is an investment in your home that is meant for long haul.

One more reason aluminum fencing outweighs chain link for the best option in fencing is the limitless options in ornamental design and color.  There are also a lot of extra options to help homeowners customize aluminum fences where as chain link options are limited.  If you are looking for an option in fencing that stands out, aluminum is where it is at.  Choose from decorative finials, ornamental scrolls, or add accessorial caps to nearly all aluminum fences none of which is available in chain link fencing.

Fence maintenance is another consideration when considering between aluminum fencing and chain link.  Chain link can and will rust over time unless it is coated in a vinyl protective coat.  Aluminum fencing on the other hand is basically virtually maintenance free and durable.  It comes with a powder-coated finish that makes the fence panels do not require repainting or extra protection against changing climates.

Learn more about aluminum fencing online from numerous online wholesalers of aluminum fencing panels.

iFenceUSA offers the widest variety of maintenance-free, no-rust aluminum fences and gates in the industry! Whether you are a pool contractor, a building contractor, an architect, a landscaping professional, or a “do-it-yourself” homeowner looking for exceptional value and installation advice, you’ll benefit by buying wholesale aluminum fences shipped factory-direct to your home or business anywhere in America from www.iFenceUSA.com!

iFenceUSA

, , , , , , , , ,

The Importance of Labeling In The Consumer Decision Making Process

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Product labeling can be the difference in a consumer’s decision making process.  This is what makes it so important that the manufacturer choose the right style and material for your products label along with a spot on design to represent it.  The ideas below will give you some insight into a successful label design.

Spend Money To Make Money

It is crucial that manufacturers invest in their brands.  A quality label designer is worth their weight in gold.  The product label is the first thing consumers see.  It is what differentiates your product from the competition when sitting side by side on the shelf.    An investment in a solid label design has long lasting affects to your marketing plan.  A brands image begins with its label.

Plan In Conjunction With the Designer

Designers that specialize in creating custom labels often work on an hourly basis therefore manufacturers can save time and money by being prepared.  Create a spreadsheet with categories laid out on what is necessary for the label to contain, what would be nice but isn’t totally necessary and the items that are not important at all.  Make sure to include the following:

  • Brand and product name
  • The weight
  • The ABV (alcohol by volume)
  • Government warnings
  • Logo
  • Nutrition information
  • UPC code

Consider The Overall Label Idea

Think about what you want out of your label.  What style should your label be?  Should you use intense, bright colors in your label?  Should the design be contemporary or traditional?  Will the graphics be minimal or elaborate and full of detail?  Keep the lines of communication open with your label designer; speak with them regarding the overall concept you desire out of your label.  Create an idea board to present to the designer of your product label.  Make sure it includes colors, graphics, font styles and more that relate to the vision that is in mind for your product label.

Choose A Label Style and Material

Think about the options that you have in labeling.   Shrink sleeves to flexible packaging the option you choose will represent your product.  What does the label need to accomplish.  If you are looking for a combination of packaging and labeling in one a flexible pouch is your best options.  If you are looking for a label option that also provides tamper resistance go for shrink sleeve labeling.  If your product is simple and you want your label to reflect that try a cut and stack label.

Take time to review all rough drafts given to you be the designer.  Use these to critic and offer direction to the designer until the desired result is achieved.  Once this is accomplished take the sample design and have it printed on the material you have chosen.  Apply this to the product packaging and physically see what the end result will be.  If you are fully satisfied give the go ahead to the label printing company.  If changes are desired it is crucial to make adjustments now before giving the go-ahead.  This will ensure you are completely satisfied with the results of your dedication to the design of your product label.

At Anchor Printing, we take pride in offering our clients cut & stack labeling, pressure sensitive labels, roll-fed labeling, shrink sleeves as well as flexible packaging options. Contact us today at http://anchorprinting.com for all of your product label design, printing and packaging needs.

Anchor Printing

, , , , , , , , ,

Labeling Plays an Important Role in Marketing

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Your products label and package design plays a number of rolls in product marketing.  Together the elements create a product story and will get consumers to take notice.  The industry has taken the idea of labeling and packaging and combined the two elements thus creating flexible packaging.   Customized flexible packaging helps increase company growth by increasing brand exposure and product sales.

Flexible packaging consists of a pouch or packet style container that is made from a variety of materials to create and all inclusive, resilient package and label in one.  Depending on the manufacturers goals flexible packets can be beneficial to both sales and marketing tactics.  Flexible pouches are frequently used to replace bottles, create a single use variation or even in sample distribution.

Flexible packets are one of the newest additions available to the packaging and labeling community.  They are one of the most technical products that packaging and labeling companies offer to manufacturers.  The label graphics and text are printed directly onto the pouch material.  Flexible packaging materials vary from paper to thick film.  Flexible paper packaging is ideal for solids and powders whereas film packets are better for liquids, gels, and lotions.  Both paper and film will create a reliable seal that protects the packaging contents, reduces spoilage and protects against product tampering.

Flexible packaging is popular within several different product markets including health and beauty, beverages, condiments and more.  One of the main reasons why manufacturers choose flexible packets over other options in packaging and labeling is ease of use and consumer convenience.  Not only can flexible packets are used to package large quantities they are ideal for packaging single-servings for on the go consumers.

Flexible pouches can be used for a number of products in a wide range of industries.  The benefits of this style of packaging and labeling go well beyond the design and function.  They are ideal for the sales and marketing of the products they hold.  Some of the valuable ways in which flexible packaging can be used to benefit brand and product awareness include:

  • Flexible packets can be fastened directly onto other products within the companies brand for sampling. This type of marketing is often used in magazine advertisements, brochures and direct mailings.
  • Flexible packaging is also a perfect way for marketers to distribute samples within store locations, promotional events and trade shows.
  • They are a great option for the distribution of travel sized products.
  • Another genius way marketers use flexible product packaging is to acquire consumer information. Consumers that request a free sample often fill out a consumer card that gives their information to manufactures.

No matter how you incorporate flexible packages in your lineup there are a number of ways it can be done to benefit your business.

At Anchor Printing, we take pride in offering our clients cut & stack labeling, pressure sensitive labels, roll-fed labeling, shrink sleeves as well as flexible packaging options. Contact us today at http://anchorprinting.com for all of your product label design, printing and packaging needs.

Anchor Printing

, , , , , , , , ,

Differentiate Your Product With Shrink Sleeve Labels

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

As manufacturers seek to differentiate their products from their competitors they often look into custom labeling options.  A popular option that allows products to distinguish themselves is by using shrink sleeve labels.  Shrink sleeves are a relatively new option within the labeling industry.  Their popularity stems from several different reasons including durability, security, and its full body design.

Shrink sleeves tend to be a bit more costly than other labeling options however the increase in market share often offsets the additional expense.  Many times the packaging expense decreases when using shrink sleeve wraps because a more generic container can be used.  The shrink sleeve encases the entire container.  Using a basic, less expensive container can help to offset the increase in expenses incurred with shrink sleeves.

There are many reasons that manufactures should choose to label with shrink sleeves over other options in labeling.  Studies done about consumer demand have shown an increase in sales of up to twenty percent when using shrink sleeve labels.  Some of the reasons why include:

  • Shrink sleeves can be applied to a variety of packaging containers such as plastic, glass and metal.
  • The material that shrink sleeves are made from is highly resistant to penetration and damage.
  • Even the most uniquely shaped packaging from bottles to containers is flawlessly emphasized.
  • Product safety is achieved through the tamper evident protection seal that shrink sleeve labeling incorporates in its design.
  • Shrink sleeves offer a larger visual area, three hundred and sixty degrees, that allows designers to display more information, art and consumer information.
  • The printing is done on the inside of the shrink sleeve. The design does not easily smear, blur or distort.
  • They offer the ability to use numerous marketing and promotional methods including multi-packs, promotional band labeling, on-pack sample promotions, and cross-merchandising.

It is interesting to see the number of industries that can benefit from using shrink sleeve labels.  From the food and beverage industry to pharmaceuticals and household cleansers, shrink sleeves offer benefits that other labeling options cannot.

  • Food and Beverage: The tamper proof nature of shrink sleeves seals the product and prevents the product from being accidentally opened.
  • Pharmaceutical: Product safety is of the utmost important in the pharmaceutical industry. The packages structural design along with the added security that is provided by shrink sleeve labeling the chance of the product being opened unintentionally is extremely limited.
  • Household Cleaners: Shrink sleeves are one labeling material that can withstand moisture, friction and varying degrees of temperature.

At Anchor Printing, we take pride in offering our clients cut & stack labeling, pressure sensitive labels, roll-fed labeling, shrink sleeves as well as flexible packaging options. Contact us today at http://anchorprinting.com for all of your product label design, printing and packaging needs.

Anchor Printing

, , , , , , , , ,

Refurbished Medical Equipment Is A Solid Choice For Your Budget

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Medical facilities seeking to purchase top brand name equipment should look to suppliers selling and servicing refurbished medical supplies.  Choosing new or refurbished medical equipment for your facility is n undertaking that should be overseen by an expert task force.  Finding a company to supply and service your medical equipment is quite a task.  Refurbished equipment can be as reliable as brand new medical equipment at a fraction of the cost of the original, name brand piece.

When looking into buying new or refurbished equipment there are a few questions that medical facilities should ask medical equipment suppliers when considering a purchase.  The first thing to discuss is the price difference between new and refurbished medical equipment.  It is also crucial to discuss exactly what the facility needs to avoid purchasing equipment that has a number of features that are not needed.   Speak to referrals to make sure that you are purchasing from a reputable company.  Discuss with the supplier the special needs of purchasing refurbished equipment.

There are sometimes when purchasing refurbished equipment is not necessarily that much of a cost savings to your facility.  Items that are stainless steel, step stools and such just don’t save that much over new.  Purchasing these items new will allow for the same or better life span without forgoing cosmetic or operational pitfalls.  Larger items like linear accelerators, tables to perform operations, monitors and such can offer a significant savings when comparing between the cost of new and refurbished medical equipment and supplies.  Some refurbished medical suppliers can save facilities upwards of fifty percent of buying new.

When buying medical equipment that is new facilities often end up paying for features that are not needed.  Some that is completely useless. What is more important when purchasing medical equipment is that it comes equipped with the features you will need and use.  A reputable supplier of refurbished medical equipment and supplies should have distinct knowledge of what your company is in need of and what fits your medical centers needs.

A reputable company that sells refurbished medical equipment will never try to oversell you.  Well established refurbished medical suppliers are around for reasons other than ripping off medical facilities.  Companies that you will want to work with don’t try to oversell you because they have abundance of a certain unit or because of an increased profit margin. They will sell you equipment based on your facilities needs and desires.

Acceletronics delivers the best equipment performance and service reliability from Linear Accelerators and CT Scanners across all major brands and models.  Our qualified oncology equipment specialists provide a quality customer experience across the USA with timely field maintenance.  We sell, repair, refurbish, move and finance oncology medical systems check out more at http://www.acceletronics.com.

Acceletronics

, , , , , , , ,

Choosing A Reliable Company To Purchase New and Refurbished Medical Equipment From

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Medical facilities that are looking to buy new or refurbished medical equipment are presented with a task that seems quite overwhelming.  To find quality equipment and supplies for your medical practice or hospital it is important to find a reliable company to work with.  A company that will supply new and refurbished equipment while linking with a superior maintenance and repair support center is something all medical facilities look for.

Consider the following questions prior to selecting a company to work with in purchasing new and refurbished medical equipment and supplies.

  • When purchasing equipment and supplies from your company what is the price difference between buying new and refurbished medical equipment?
  • Are there features on the equipment that are not needed that we are paying additional for?
  • How long has your company been doing business with medical facilities? Do you have recent referrals that we can speak with that have bought new and refurbished medical equipment?  What do you offer to your clients that make you a more reputable supplier than other companies in the industry?
  • What is the process that is followed to refurbish medical equipment?

At times it will be a more realistic to buy new medical equipment over refurbished.  Sometimes the price difference will not be enough of a difference to merit purchasing refurbished equipment over new.  Some products like step stools, bed pans and stainless steel supplies don’t save enough in the long run for it to be necessary to consider buying refurbished.  Purchasing these items new will guarantee the cosmetic and operational functions without affecting longevity.

Other times, when purchasing larger pieces of equipment such as operating tables, stretchers, patient monitors and such the savings may be quite significant in purchasing refurbished over new.  The savings have been known to be upwards of fifty percent.  When looking at the overall expense of larger medical equipment like linear accelerators and ct scanners the savings can be quite substantial.

Be wary of purchasing refurbished equipment is paying for features that your facility does not need.  If your facility has a policy against treating patients with a body weight over five hundred pounds then a surgical table rated for a thousand pounds would be useless.  A quality supplier will understand what you need and will not try to sell you a product that does not fit that need.  Suppliers of medical equipment, new and refurbished, are in the business to build relationships not to rip clients off by selling them equipment with features that are unneeded.

Acceletronics delivers the best equipment performance and service reliability from Linear Accelerators and CT Scanners across all major brands and models.  Our qualified oncology equipment specialists provide a quality customer experience across the USA with timely field maintenance.  We sell, repair, refurbish, move and finance oncology medical systems check out more at http://www.acceletronics.com.

Acceletronics

, , , , , , , ,

You Don’t Have To Compromise When Choosing Medical Equipment

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

In order to run a competent medical facility such as a hospital, diagnostic health center or pharmacy you must not only have a solid team of professionals but also top notch medical equipment.  Without the right equipment and staff in position to operate them it is likely that your facility will be bypassed by patients looking for top quality care.

When medical facilities are looking to choose equipment they should never compromise.   A professional team should be established to check into the right parameters and purchase the top equipment and devices that can be purchased within their budget.  Often times a way that this can be done without breaking the facilities budget is with the purchase of refurbished medical equipment.  The choices available within the market should be examined thoroughly.

The difference between life and death can come down to the equipment that a facility chooses to purchase.  Purchasing a quality piece of equipment is something that facilities should never ignore.  The best product is one that often is backed by a top brand name.  Often times the price tag which comes with these top brand name products will break the facilities budget for medical equipment.  What is important is that facilities seek to get the best quality equipment at the best price even if it means purchasing refurbished medical equipment.

It is important to know the supplier in which you are purchasing medical equipment from.  Without a doubt, you should know that you are getting the best equipment at the best price.  Ask the supplier for referrals of clients that are currently using them to supply their equipment.  If you are interested in doing business with the supplier it is important to ensure that they take care of their existing customer base while building upon their business.  The more positive referrals you are given the more likely you are to be convinced that you are making the right decision when it comes to who will supply your medical equipment now and in the future.

The cost of medical equipment will always be a factor in the decision making process.  Suppliers should offer competitive pricing for the quality of equipment being purchased.  The value if your dollar should be equivalent to the value of the equipment you are receiving.  Never compromise on the quality of the medical equipment you purchase, it is crucial in the treatment of your patients and the quality of their care.

Another important factor to consider is the care you will receive after the sale.  The after sales support and service received is of the utmost importance when choosing the right supplier to purchase your medical equipment from.  Complex medical equipment must be serviced properly to increase its longevity.  It is crucial that when choosing a supplier to purchase medical equipment that your medical facility take the above into consideration to ensure the best possible results for your facility.

Acceletronics delivers the best equipment performance and service reliability from Linear Accelerators and CT Scanners across all major brands and models.  Our qualified oncology equipment specialists provide a quality customer experience across the USA with timely field maintenance.  We sell, repair, refurbish, move and finance oncology medical systems check out more at http://www.acceletronics.com.

Acceletronics

, , , , , , , ,

Popular Roofing For Homes In The North

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

A popular material to use in roofing here in the north is asphalt shingles.  In this installment on roofing our contractors will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using composite shingles for your new or replacement roof.

Two types of shingles are available on the market, organic and fiberglass.  Fiberglass shingles are created with a bottom layer mat that is created out of glass fiber.  The mat is then coated with a mixture containing asphalt and mineral fillers to create a waterproof barrier. Fiberglass is more widely used because they offer excellent protection against fire.  Organic shingles on the other hand use a mat created from recycled paper, covered with asphalt and a top layer of bonding salt and ceramic granules implanted on the top.  Organic shingles are incredibly durable however highly flammable.

Shingles have many advantages over other materials used in roofing.  Shingle roofing is incredibly affordable.  It is comparatively inexpensive upfront and is the most affordable option in the short term.  When properly installed a shingle roof can offer a solid level of protection against a wide range of climates for at least twelve to fifteen years.

Even though shingle roofing is inexpensive does not mean that it lacks in variety.  The most common and cost effective is the three tab shingle followed by architectural and premium.  No matter what style your home is there is a shingle roofing option to complement and enhance the exterior.  Another benefit is the vast number of colors and patterns to choose from.  Shingle roofs can be used to create an alluring custom look that can greatly enhance the overall appeal of your home’s exterior.

Professional roof contractors appreciate the next benefit, ease of installation and repair.  Asphalt shingles are light weight and can be easily installed without requiring any added structural supports, special tools or without any major prep.

This isn’t to say that asphalt shingles are without fault.  Some disadvantages of having roofing contractors install asphalt roofing are:

  • If the roof needs to be installed and temperatures fall below freezing shingles are more apt to be damaged.
  • Asphalt damage can occur without proper attic ventilation.
  • Extreme heat causes cracking and color loss in shingles.
  • Bi-yearly maintenance and regular repairs are essential to ensure shingle roofing keeps its integrity.
  • Asphalt shingles, for the most part, are not environmentally friendly.

Overall however shingle roofing is the most preferred material by roofing contractors to install on home in areas where the climate varies substantially between seasons.

Home Pro Roofing contractors offer a variety of roofing services throughout Brighton, East Lansing, Ann Arbor, Fenton and Commerce Township, including installation of shingle roofs, metal roofing and roof repairs.  You will find them at http://www.homeproroofingmi.com today.

 

 

Home Pro Roofing MI

, , , , , , , ,

The Benefits of Metal Roofing Over Other Roofing Options

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Residential roofing contractors are encouraging more and more homeowners to consider metal roofing over other options in roofing such as asphalt shingles, clay tiles, slate, wood shingles and more.  Why you ask?

Advantages of Metal Roofing

  • Durability – A metal roof can last upwards of forty to fifty years whereas homeowners can only get about twelve to fifteen years out of asphalt shingles. Metal roofing lasts. It maintains its integrity in aspects of both strength and appearance.
  • Eco-Friendly – Metal roofing is the king of recycled roofing materials. At least twenty five percent of the contents in metal roofing come from recycled materials.   Metal roofing itself is one hundred percent recyclable when it is time for your homes roof to be replaced.
  • Impact Resistance – Roofing needs to protect homes from damage that can occur due to weather. Metal roofing does just that.  In climates where the weather doesn’t only change between seasons, but also from day to day, can benefit from metal roofing.
  • Fire Resistant – Metal roofing has a higher fireproof rating than any other material in roofing. Let’s face it metal is near impossible to set on fire.
  • Energy Conservation – Reflective materials such as metal aid homeowners in helping to keep their homes interior cool when the air is running throughout the summer. Metal roofing will help you save on air conditioning bills.
  • Steep Pitch –Metal roofing is ideal for all pitches and slopes that can be found on homes. From the steepest roof to the flattest roof metal roofing is ideal.  During the winter months snow easily glides off.

With all the benefits of metal roofing it is hard to imagine that all homeowners living where the climate changes don’t install metal roofs.  However, there are some drawbacks to purchasing metal roofing over other traditional materials available in roofing.

Drawbacks of Metal Roofing

  • Cost – One major disadvantage of metal roofing is the cost. Up-front metal roofing is tremendously expensive in comparison to composite asphalt shingles.  Metal is a long lasting, heavy duty roofing solution however the initial investment could end up lasting longer than most homeowner’s desire.
  • Noise – Many homeowners enjoy the pit-pat of rain on metal roofing but consider hearing it day after day. It is true that the peaceful sound or rain or hail can get a bit tiring after awhile especially for homeowners with sensitivity to sound.

When deciding between metal roofing and other options consider the above while also taking a long hard look at the exterior of your home.   Metal roofing enhances the exterior of almost all homes but perhaps to you aesthetically it just isn’t what you are looking for.  Only you as the homeowners will truly know if a metal roof is ideal for your home.

Home Pro Roofing contractors offer a variety of roofing services throughout Brighton, East Lansing, Ann Arbor, Fenton and Commerce Township, including installation of shingle roofs, metal roofing and roof repairs.  You will find them at http://www.homeproroofingmi.com today.

Home Pro Roofing MI

, , , , , , , ,

Tips When Hiring A Handyman

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Many of us are not handy when it comes to even the smallest home improvement project.  This is why it is important to have a professional handyman on speed dial at all times.  In order to get the most out of hiring a handyman consider the advice below.

Get organized and maintain an ongoing list of work that needs to be accomplished.  This will allow you to maximize the work that is done when the handyman is at your home.  When it comes to the repairs and work needed on your home be upfront with your expectations.  Handyman services vary between companies and therefore it is important to make sure what you need is something that can be accomplished using the individual you have contracted.  If your request is not within the services that they offer they will be more than happy to refer you to someone who can handle your request.

When hiring a handyman look no further than friends and family for referrals.  Most handymen businesses are grown based on word of mouth alone.  If the person you are looking to hire can’t provide at least three local references then pass on them.  Any good handyman will have a large handful of regular clients that use their services on an ongoing basis.

As with any contractor working within your home or business it is crucial that they are not only licensed and insured but also bonded.  If they are injured on your property while performing work for you it is important that they have insurance otherwise you will be fully liable.

Before you allow a handyman to perform any work within your home make sure you get a signed, written estimate that includes both the cost of labor and materials.  Reputablehandyman will be able to estimate jobs within ten percent.  Make it clear to potential handyman that you are looking to hire that you understand this fact and aren’t interested in any low ball estimates.

You have to be one hundred percent comfortable with this individual as they will be working in your home close to your family.  It is pertinent that you are not only comfortable with their work and pricing but also their demeanor.

Establish a detailed schedule of when work is to be accomplished.  It should include when work is to start, an estimate on finishing with check in points throughout the project.  This schedule should be agreed upon between both parties to avoid any miscommunication in what is to be done.

Finally ask about guarantees on materials and craftsmanship.  If the handyman you are looking to hire does not offer any type of satisfaction guarantee then avoid hiring them.  You should get in writing a statement of from the handyman ensuring that they will take care of quality issues and workmanship failures for a specific amount of time, free of extra charge.

 

The Home Doctor, based in Livingston County including Brighton and Howell Michigan, offers a variety of home renovations to clients ranging from bathroom remodeling to age in place home modifications.  Contact http://glenmillerthehomedoctor.com/ today all of your home renovating needs.

Glen Miller The Home Doctor