Livingston Reporting - page 226

Choosing Between Rigid and Flexible Packaging

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Have you ever taken a really good look into how much the industry of product packaging has changed in the last decade?   Look at the products sitting on your shelves right now.  What do you see?  My guess is that you will see a variety of different packages from paper packets to plastic pouches.  This is a significant change from years past when rigid packaging options were the norm.  A decade ago consumer’s shelves were stacked to the hilt with cans and hard plastic containers. Why the change?

There are a number of reasons that manufacturers choose to switch from rigid packaging to flexible packaging. Just because flexible pouch packaging is a good choice for the competition or one subset within your brand does not mean it meets the needs of all of your products.  There are many benefits of both rigid and flexible packaging.  It is up to you as a manufacturer to determine which option best meets the needs of both the product and consumer’s needs.

One of the main benefits of flexible packaging over rigid packaging options is its durability.  Pouches are far less likely to be damaged upon impact over several options in rigid packaging.   During shipping solid containers such as glass or aluminum are more likely to be damaged during shipping then flexible plastic pouches.

At first this might not sound like it’s a big deal but consider the last time you choose to buy a product in a package that was damaged.  If you do how many times are you likely to ask the retailer to offer the item at a discount?  It is just a simple fact that damaged products are less likely to be purchased than those without.  This is just one reason why manufacturers find flexible packaging desirable.

Another benefit of flexible packaging comes from the materials that are used to create the pouches.  Most flexible packaging is created from a laminated plastic.  The laminated plastic helps to strengthen the barrier characteristic of the package.  The design options with flexible packaging are also fairly unlimited including: laminated sacks, pouches, plastic form fill and seal film, bags and more.  Manufacturers can also choose from a variety of options including: velcro sliders, hooded sliders, top sliders, face zippers, re-sealable zippers and sliders.  The re-sealable nature of flexible packaging is what makes it of utmost attractiveness to most manufactures and consumers alike.

Choosing between rigid and flexible packaging should come down to each individual product within your company line.  What is right for one product may not be for another.

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

, , , , , , , , ,

Connecting With Your Clients Through Labeling

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

One of the most difficult things about being a business owner is finding ways to attract and connect with customers.  Reaching clients is made simpler by using techniques that appeal to their emotions.  One way manufacturers can achieve this is to utilize proper product packaging and custom labeling techniques.  A main aspect in labeling and packaging is color.  It is ideal that designers to correlate colors, fonts, images and materials that work to connect consumers to the product in order to achieve success.  Understanding the psychology of color is crucial in label design.  The guide below will allow you to see how color is used to convey emotion and the manufacturer’s message.

There are many classes that can be taken to help custom label designers understand color psychology.  Color on labeling is utilized to allow products to stand out from the competition when on display.  It is important that a product speak for itself when there is not a company representative speaking on its behalf; a properly designed product label does just that.

Start by examining the ideals of the color graphic wheel when beginning to consider color options to represent your company brand and product lines.  The color wheel is a visual aide that shows how complementary colors create a dramatic contrast and offer the pop element to wow consumers.  This is ideal when it comes to graphic imaging and elements within the content just be careful of using this technique in large quantities as that may overpower the product.  That is the exact opposite of what manufacturers are looking to accomplish.

Looking for a relaxed vibe where the color flows naturally together; consider analogous colors.  Unlike complimentary colors which stand out these colors when used in conjunction of one another blend together and appeal to more subdued feelings.  They work well for the label background to help create a differential between the text and design.

Label designers should seek to follow the rule of threes when choosing a color palette off of the color wheel.  It has been researched that groups of three are perceived in a more positive light.  Jokes are funnier when said in threes, foods are more tasteful in threes and colors are more effective in threes.

In our next installment on the affects of color in labeling we will discuss different colors and textures affect the look and feel of your product label.  It is amazing the difference in customer perception between brown craft paper differs from metallic paper in labeling.

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

, , , , , , , , ,

For Continued Success Evaluate Your Packaging and Labeling Options

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Consumers have begun to recognize how their lives are impacted by product packaging.  They are making buying decisions based on packaging convenience.  It is crucial for continued success and growth that manufacturers take time to evaluate their packaging and options that are available.  It may be time to rebrand to ensure consumers are getting a quality product in the most convenient packaging available on the market today.

One option in packaging that is taking the custom packaging and labeling industry by storm is flexible packaging.  The benefits that arise from flexible packaging are not limited to the consumer alone which is another reason that it has become such a popular option.  Many product markets are switching away from cardboard or cans and transitioning towards bags and pouches to capitalize on their markets.

There are several benefits when choosing flexible packaging from a manufacturing stand point.  One of the major advantages over other types of packaging is the efficiency in manufacturing the package itself.  Flexible packaging offers a light weight packaging solution with little waste.  It also decreases the amount of shelf real estate that is needed when displayed.  These two factors in themselves give manufacturers an edge over other packaging options.

Manufactures that have switched to pouch packaging also report a decrease in production and shipping in handling costs.  The lightweight package decreases freight costs.  This is great for companies that are looking to cut costs.  The cost savings seen in flexible packaging are abundant.  Don’t simply focus on the savings seen within the manufacturing process.  Consider the additional costs occurred with other packaging options such as the need for separate custom labeling and more as well.

Another benefit with flexible packaging is its eco-friendly nature.  During all stages of a products lifecycle it is important that it is sustainable.  Flexible packaging maintains this requirement throughout from requiring less water and energy for production to lower fuel consumption in transportation to less package waste in landfills.

Flexible packaging is available in a number of varieties to accommodate a wide range of products.  Growth within the industry is occurring throughout the food and beverage industry and beyond.  Manufacturers looking for greater visual appeal, versatility, convenience, greater shelf impact, increased freshness and more should consider all of the options available when using flexible packaging.

Your products package must keep up with the ever changing demands of consumers.  Give your product a competitive edge by upgrading to flexible packaging where it makes sense in your company’s product line.

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

, , , , , , , , ,

Invest In The Best

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

When it comes to buying aluminum fencing it is essential that you carefully research all of the available options.  Purchasing aluminum fencing is quite an investment, one that is intended to be a permanent presence for decades to come.  In order to assist you in your quest to find the perfect addition in aluminum fencing to your landscape we have created this detailed guide on what to look for.

Affordable Pricing

Aluminum fencing doesn’t have to be extravagantly expensive in order to be a solid investment.  The cost of the fence isn’t everything but it is important to note that not all quotes are created equally.  Sometimes manufacturers quote out the lowest grade fencing available to win a bid only to later mention that the fence that was quoted was of a lower quality than expected.  When comparing fence quotes from various manufactures it is important to take into consideration the quality of the fence being quoted along with all the extras.  A price that seems too good to be true probably is.

Customer Service

While you are exploring online aluminum wholesalers take into account the customer service you receive.  Not only should you be working with customer representatives that are kind and courteous but they should also be experts in all aspects of fencing.  You need a representative that can take you from measuring the yard through to the installation process.  If you need help or questions should arise at anytime throughout the process you will want to know that they are there to assist you.

Warranty

Two things are really important when it comes to the warranty on your aluminum fencing.  Not only is it important that the fence manufacturer offer a warranty it is equally important that they honor it.  Find out what the warranty covers.  If the fence breaks under normal use will they replace it?  How about if the powder coating on the fence starts to chip or peel?  Even worse what does the warranty cover if the fence is damaged during a weather related incident?  A fantastic warranty will save you a lot of heartache if something ends up happening to damage your aluminum fence.

The Basics

Aluminum fencing comes in several different grades that will vary the weight of the fence.  It is important that you purchase the fence grade that goes along with the desired application.  Most manufacturers offer residential, pool grade, commercial and industrial fencing.  Aluminum fencing is known for its ease of installation.  Aluminum fence manufacturers can help customers with installation by providing detailed step by step instructions to follow.  Also, take into consideration the different charges for extras and enhancements to the aesthetics of the already beautiful fence such as puppy pickets, finials and such that enhance visual appeal.

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

, , , , , , , , ,

There Is No Better Option Than Aluminum Fencing

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Aluminum fencing is by far the best type of fencing that your money can buy.  This is especially true for the DIY homeowner looking to install their fencing.  Whether you are looking to enclose a pool, backyard or looking into perimeter fencing for a business there isn’t a better option than aluminum.  Not only does it serve a purpose, it does so while looking classic and adding value to your home.  Aluminum fencing not only increase the homes aesthetics but also its value overall.

There are quite a few misconceptions that surround the purchase and installation of aluminum fencing.  In the following installment we will dispel the top myths surrounding aluminum.

The first misconception that many perpetuate about aluminum fencing is that it is not as strong as steel.  This is absolutely false.  Yes, aluminum fencing is lighter in weight than wrought iron but in no way should you take that to mean that it is any less durable.  When it comes right down to it the weight ratio of aluminum fencing panels is equivalent to the density found in steel.  It is true that steel is stiffer and heavier than aluminum but both materials are equally durable and strong.

Many people believe that aluminum fencing will eventually rust.  This is however untrue as well.  The aluminum may oxidize over time but will never rust.  The aluminum is coated with a powder coating that prevents rusting and helps to diminish oxidization.

Homeowners with an even landscape often think that aluminum fencing will not properly rack.  This however is completely untrue; in face aluminum fencing is easily racked and works well on even the steepest of landscapes.  This is especially true now with the changes that have recently taken place in aluminum fence manufacturing.  New technology in aluminum fencing allows the railing to follow along the ground while keeping the pickets vertical.

Some people believe that aluminum fencing doesn’t hold up over time.  This is completely untrue.  In fact many homeowners that have purchased an aluminum fence will purchase it again if they move to a new home.  It is a popular option because the powder coated surface allows the fence to maintain the classic look and appeal from the first day it is installed for the entire time it is in use.  Maintenance is low and the wear and tear over time on aluminum fencing is minimal.  It truly holds up without nearly the maintenance seen in with other fencing materials.

You might think that with all of the benefits listed above that aluminum fence is expensive to purchase and install but that is untrue as well.  Aluminum fencing does cost more than wood or chain link but when you consider the cost savings in installation and maintenance you will see the bargain that aluminum actually is.

Aluminum is a truly classic material that when used in fencing is strong, durable, maintainable and easy to install.  It is available in a number of colors and styles to choose from and can be purchased from the comfort of your own home through online aluminum fence wholesalers.

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 http://www.iFenceUSA.com!

iFenceUSA

, , , , , , , , ,

Preventing Damage To Aluminum Fencing

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

I always get asked what special precautions should be taken to ensure that aluminum fencing withstands high winds and heavy storms.  Although there is no guarantee that your aluminum fence will make it through a hurricane, tornado or other natural disasters there are several steps that can be taken to prevent inclement weather from destroying your aluminum fence.  Let’s face the facts; the only thing holding your fence upright is the pressure of the posts against the soil.

One way to help prevent major damage to aluminum fencing even in the midst of the most horrific of storms is to look at the natural elements within the yard surrounding the fence.  Trim trees and dead branches to keep them from being blown off during strong winds or heavy rain.  Limbs should be trimmed twice a year, at the beginning of summer and the end of fall to help prevent them from falling onto the fencing.  Have all the trees in your yard that are dead or dying removed from the space.  Many times dead trees will completely uproot in the midst of severe weather.  A falling tree or several heavy branches can cause a lot of damage to your fencing panels.

Another way to keep your fence from getting damaged during a storm is to make sure the fence posts are secure.  Take a few minutes and walk around the aluminum fence posts.  Check for loose or unstable fence posts as they have the potential to lift up out of the ground during a relentless storm.

When you know a storm is coming you can prepare your fence by closing and locking the aluminum gate.  If an aluminum gate is left unlocked during severe weather it runs the risk of being ripped off or slamming into the rest of the fence.  Leaving the fence unlatched during inclement weather also could lead the gate to damage the integrity of the fence itself.  The swift pull and push of wind on an aluminum gate will have it going in a million and a half directions.

Another solid piece of advice to keep your aluminum fence and gate from being damaged in a storm is to eliminate all the backyard objects that are free flying.  Take all chairs, tables, sports equipment and such into a secure garage or shed area.  That way if the wind picks up objects won’t randomly be flying through the air causing damage to the fence or home.

If by chance you do experience storm damage to your aluminum fencing don’t fret.  Check out your local online aluminum fence wholesaler who can help find you the correct aluminum fencing replacement parts to fix your homes fence.

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 http://www.iFenceUSA.com!

iFenceUSA

, , , , , , , , ,

Home Improvements and Their Return On Investment

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Every update done to your home has a return on investment at resale that should be considered before tackling it.  Below you will find the average ROI you can expect when contracting popular home renovations.

  • Minor Bathroom Updates Average ROI 102% – Renovations to a bathroom that do not include redoing electrical or plumbing range around eleven thousand dollars. This includes replacing the tub, tile surround, flooring, toilet, sink, vanity and fixtures.   If the tub is going to be too difficult to replace consider updating the tub by re-glazing the surface.  Fresh glaze allows a tub to appear brand new.  A fresh coat of paint and updated shower curtain or doors really add to the any bathroom renovation.
  • Updated, Simplified Landscaping Average ROI 100% – Hiring a landscape designer really pays off when it comes to landscaping. For the most part it is safe plan three quarters of your budget for materials and one quarter on the design and installation.  Check around your neighborhood to determine what is appealing to the exterior of homes that are similar to yours.  A bit of color can really enhance the landscape.  For a grand impact choose one color and vary the heights of the landscape plants.   Don’t allow the landscape to become overgrown.  Keep it charming and simple.  Walkways and water features are other attractive features that add interest and visual appeal.
  • Minor Kitchen Renovations Average ROI 98.5% -Most kitchens can be completely renovated without changing the floor plan of the space. To maximize your renovation dollars re-face cabinets and drawers, change out the sink and fixtures, cabinet hardware, flooring and countertops.  Additional lighting will add substantially to the kitchen.   The overall value of your home before the minor renovation will also determine the materials you should use.  For homes over three hundred thousand dollars can be updated with higher valued materials like granite, glass and stone.  Consider your flooring choice as well depending once again on the value of the home.
  • Exterior Improvements Average ROI 95.5% – The curb appeal of your home really sells itself. Updates to the siding can really change the appearance of your home while helping to lower maintenance.  Wood siding requires real maintenance whereas vinyl siding only really requires a spring power washing every other year.  Another renovation that contractors suggest when updating your home’s exterior is the addition of a new entry door.  Fresh paint to exterior columns can really freshen up the space as well.  Add some seating and lighting to really add to the return on investment of your exterior renovation.

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

, , , , , , , , , ,

Handyman Renovations Under $500

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

There are so many things that can be done to increase the appeal of a home without breaking the bank.  Below are seven of the best home improvements that local handymen can be hired out for less than five hundred dollars.

The first improvement that is always suggested by contractors has to do with increasing the curb appeal of your home.  For less than five hundred dollars homeowners can hire a handyman for the day to do just that.  Increasing curb appeal is going to involve different tasks for every home however the following improvements should be considered when seeking to increase your homes curb appeal:

  • Exterior Pressure Washing
  • Wash Exterior Windows and Screens
  • Repair Broken Concrete Sidewalks and Steps
  • Update The Mailbox
  • Edge The Lawn
  • Trim Bushes
  • Pull Weeds
  • Freshen Up Mulch

Another inexpensive home improvement that makes a big difference comes with the entryway of your home.  For less than five hundred dollars you can replace the front door, add some color to the entry, update light fixtures and add an entry door rug.  Contractors all say that the little enhancements to the home’s exterior appearance do a lot to add to the attraction of your property.  A well kept exterior translates into a home that is taken care of.

If you have five hundred dollars for home renovations another huge renovation that can be done that does a lot to increase the homes overall presences is repairing and painting the interior walls.  Handymen are often called in to freshen up interior paint.  A fresh coat on the walls and trim can really transform a room.  Don’t forget the ceiling!

Just like a new necklace can transform an old outfit lighting can change up a room.  A little pizzazz can be added throughout your home my switching up the style of lighting fixtures that are installed.  For less than five hundred dollars you should be able to budget for lighting upgrades and fresh light bulbs to almost every room in your home.  Larger fixtures such as ones you would find in a kitchen or foyer will take up the majority of the budget.  For these pieces consider looking for ideas outside the normal.  Online sites offer a great deal of large scaled budget lighting options that can be fairly inexpensive to reproduce.

No matter what home renovation that you choose there is a lot that can be done by hiring a professional handyman for the day.  For less than five hundred dollars it is possible to hire a local handyman once a year to add a different perspective to a space that needs some wow factor added.

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

, , , , , , , , , ,

Options In Pool Plastering

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

The options in pool plaster have long moved past the days of white plaster.  Company’s offer pool plastering services today still offer good old fashion white plaster, color additives and colored aggregates that add visual appeal, increased strength and increased client satisfaction. The combination of plaster options is endless; each offering a unique perspective and appeal that is as distinct as the landscape surrounding the pool.

A pools plaster can last for many years meaning that most homeowners will not have to concern themselves with plaster options too frequently.  Eventually the corrosive chemicals and water begin to deteriorate the pools plaster surface.  Thus making the surface rough and staining more difficult to remove.  This is when homeowners know it is time to upgrade the plaster on the pools surface.

The pools plaster is the waterproof coating that is added on top of the gunite shell.  The plaster is intended to slowly wear.  In most cases the plaster is not replaced to retain the pools structural integrity or retain waterproofing but instead to enhance the pools appearance.   Stained, rough, pitted plaster surfacing is the reason most residential and commercial pool owners choose to resurface a pools plaster.

There are many additives that can be used to enhance your pool.  Basic white pool plaster is a combination of cement and marble dust.  This combination is often referred to as marcite.  When mixed together with water and binding additives it is sprayed on a prepped surface and smoothed to perfection.

Color additives can be added to the plaster to produce different results.  Popular color choices are hues of grey and blue.  Colored quartzite chips can be added to plaster to create visual attraction and more durability.  These colored quartzite chips are used to hide imperfections and be more resistant to the deterioration from chemicals.  Pozzolans are added to plaster but go undetected visually.  This additive locks up calcium hydroxide and prevents its reaction to other chemicals.   This allows for the plaster to remain smoother and last longer.  One last additive we will talk about is silicone shielding.  This is used to reduce staining by basically waterproofing the plaster.

Exposed aggregates such as pebbletec and beadcrete are used to create a bumpy texture and slip resistance nature to the surface.  Both products add a visual appeal that cannot be reproduced with regular plaster.  Pool owners looking to enhance the landscape of the pool can do so using either of these products.

There are so many choices beyond white pool plaster.  Be sure to check with your local pool plastering company to find an option that works to enhance your pool environment.

Pound Pool Plastering repairs commercial and residential gunite swimming pools including coping, tile and plaster repairs. For more information or to request a quote, visit us at http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

Pound Pool Plastering

, , , , , , , , , ,

Painting Verse Plaster In Pool Re-Surfacing

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

In-ground pool owners hit the jackpot this summer.  Temperatures have been some of the hottest we have had in years along with record high humidity levels and low amounts of rain.  This summer backyard pools have been put to good use.  Have you started to notice that condition of the pools surface starting to look a bit dull and lifeless?  Are you considering a facelift to the interior surface of your pool before the start of the next summer swimming season?

There are a number of options to consider in pool plastering options.  Some consider painting the pool in order to give the surface a fresh appearance.  Back in the day, painting the pools surface was an annual rite of passage in opening the pool.  Then pool plaster was introduced and pool owners came to appreciate the longevity and durability that comes along with this option.  What now?  Do you go old school and paint the interior surface of the pool or do you follow the modern trend of plastering when faced with preparations for the next swimming season?

Paint verse Plaster – Who Wins?

Endurance Factor

Painting a pools interior surface will only keep it looking updated and fresh looking for one season.  Plaster is definitely the better option when looking at the endurance factor.  Pool plaster, when professionally installed can last anywhere between fifteen to twenty years.  Where as a painted finish at best can make it through two full seasons before it needs to be done again.  Professional pool plastering when done properly is a far superior in endurance over painting.

Durability Factor

Paints that are specifically designed for use in spas, pools and outdoor fountains are durable given the beating taken from chemicals and climate changes.  The problem exists in durability when it comes to the thickness of the surface.  Painted surfaces are not nearly as thick as plaster surfaces, making them less durable overall.  A plaster pool is about a half an inch thick and therefore can handle more of the everyday beatings that an in-ground recreational pool takes.  If you are surfacing a fountain that will not be abused daily by cleaning equipment and tiny humans then painting it may be just fine.

Preparation

Both applications require some degree of preparation to be done before they can be applied.  The pool must be completely dried and prepped for the new surface to be applied.  Painting a pool requires far less prep than plaster however plaster is usually done professionally therefore requiring know amount of prep work to be completed by the homeowner.

Apply and Finish

Once a pool has been prepped for painting the process is fairly simple.  The pool paint is mixed and applied to the surface.  Two coats are required and can be done within four to six hours of one another.  The pool should not be refilled with water until the surface is completely dry which can take anywhere between two to five days depending on the weather.  Pool plaster on the other hand is quite difficult to apply and is best left to the professionals.  A professional plastering company will apply the plaster mixture using a thick hose.  It will then be smoothed out evenly.  This process usually can be done in one day and the water can start to be added to the pool.

It’s fairly easy to see why individuals choose plaster over painting when it comes to resurfacing their pools.  In the end it may cost a bit more but saves a whole lot of time given that plaster has a longer life span and will most likely not need to be done more than once over the time that you own the pool.

Pound Pool Plastering repairs commercial and residential gunite swimming pools including coping, tile and plaster repairs. For more information or to request a quote, visit us at http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

Pound Pool Plastering

, , , , , , , , , ,