Livingston Reporting - page 270

Roofing Contractors Busy With Winter Roof Replacement and Repair

The winter season is upon the entire northern area and boy has it with vengeance.  The northern states may be getting hit hard but the entire country is being affected by the hold.  This article affects everyone that is being hit with the winter snow and colder than normal temperatures.  It is crucial that we remember that we alone are not being affected but our homes as well.  Most homes are already in need of normal home repairs and maintenance that accumulates in winter; top that with the winter cold, snow, rain and ice and you will find yourself with spring time home repairs to accomplish.

Examine Your Shingle Roof

You may not know what to look for when it comes to damage that has occurred on your shingle roof throughout the winter but a professional roofing contractor will.  Many local roofing contractors will come out to your home and offer you a no obligation free quote on roofing repairs for winter damage and will inform you if you need a new roof all together.  Expert roof contractors can see the tell-tale signs that a roof is in need of repair from the ground but will also have the necessary skills to get up on a ladder and onto the roof to perform repairs from the most basic to complex issues such as replacing whole shingles.

Check Out Gutters and Downspouts

Your gutters and downspouts should be clear of debris and allow the water to flow freely.  The repairs to downspouts and gutters are expensive.  This is why it is crucial that they are maintained and that they are cleaned out on a regular basis.  If they are left full of debris and working improperly the damage from clogs can be quite extensive.

Restore Concrete Sidewalks and Driveways

The winter time often makes the small, unnoticeable cracks of summer large noticeable safety hazards of spring.  As a home owner you are responsible for maintaining the sidewalks, walkways and concrete driveway surfaces.  Home improvement stores sell premixed concrete for repairs of just this nature.  You may find that after you repair the concrete, depending on the size of the original crack, that it is necessary to reseal the entire surface.  If you take the time to fill in the cracks while they are still relatively small you can save yourself the expense and hassle of relaying new concrete later on.  Basic maintenance prevents bigger issues in the future.

Re-Establish the Seals on Windows and Door Walls

The seals on your windows and doors have been through a lot with the large difference in temperature changes and could be in serious need of repair before turning the air on to avoid the summertime heat.  Many homeowners have already taken the time in the fall to make sure the seal is secure on the homes windows and doors to ensure proper heating in the winter.  The same process should be followed in the spring.  Caulk and re-seal doors, sills and windows that appear to be functioning below their capabilities.

These are just a few tips to prevent major issues from arising.  Smaller, general repairs and maintenance done to keep up on your house are far more cost effective and save homeowners time then major home renovations and remodels once repairs become impossible.  Small repairs and regular maintenance bring your home back to its original state without too much work for homeowners.

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.

Understanding Circuit Breaker Voltage

Circuit breakers are an electrical device that is used to automatically break a path that has become overloaded. They are used to prevent major fires or electrical disasters to your home or business as a safety precaution. In order to decide what breaker is the perfect choice for your needs you will need to consider the voltage that you will be using, the point at which you wish the circuit to trip and the overload protection needed.

The most common type of breaker that is used is a low voltage breaker which is ideal for residential use. There are several different types of breakers, low voltage are just the most common. Low voltage circuit breakers are easy to install because using them only requires the installation of one general breaker panel.

There are other types of circuit breakers including miniature circuit breakers, molded case circuit breakers, medium voltage circuit breakers and high voltage breakers. Depending on your need, commercial or residential, will depend on which type of breaker will be best for you.

Miniature circuit breakers are the lowest voltage breaker that is available. They are known to carry electricity of only 100 amps. Miniature circuit breakers are capable of holding electrical charges of no more than 1,000 amps.

Molded case circuit breakers are the ideal breaker for 1,000 amps of electricity. They safely disconnect when that goes beyond ten times the capacity. They are often called magnetic circuit breakers. They are called this because they use electromagnetic power solenoid’s to break the circuit when the flow exceeds capacity.

A medium voltage breaker has a capacity of between 1,000 and 72,000 amps before they break. The performance is relative to which brand and model you choose. You will often see these breakers used in larger buildings and businesses. You will find them in cabinets indoors and switchboxes which are enclosed. There are three breaker sub types within the medium voltage breaker category: SF6, air and sub-type breakers.

High voltage circuit breakers are those that are capable of holding more than 72,500 volts of electricity. These breakers are usually found outdoors with high voltage power lines. These circuits are controlled with a solenoid switch that activates the arc-chamber when too much electricity flows through.

When considering a breaker it is important to consider the voltage as well as the trip point. The trip point when the breaker will trip should be set at a point comfortable that it prevents your wiring from overheating. When your breaker is overloaded you want to be sure it trips and electricity current is no longer flowing. This is crucial to prevent major electrical accidents and fire from overloaded circuits.

J&P Electrical is a full service electrical equipment company. At J&P, we supply contractors, end users and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned and obsolete electrical equipment. Contact us today at https://jpelectricalcompany.com for all of your bus plug, circuit breaker, switchboard, fuses, disconnects and more.

Spring Home Improvements

When the winter season is upon us most of us are already in full swing thinking about spring.  We are looking forward to brighter days where the sun is full when we can begin all of the home improvement projects we have been meaning to get to.  Consider the projects you are seeing that need to get accomplished and create a spring check list.  Then in the spring create to do lists for each project to help you get on your way without the intimidation the checklist as a whole.New

Start with your homes roof.  Shingle and metal roofs here in the north really take a beating throughout the winter months.  When spring arrives it is important to hire a roofing contractor to inspect the roof.  They will evaluate the issues that arise during the winter season.  This doesn’t necessarily mean the roof needs to be replaced in full however could determine minor roof repairs that are needed to maintain the function of your shingle roof.

Roofing contractors look for blistering.  This can be a result of poor workmanship or inadequate roofing ventilation.  Shingles may need to be replaced because they are cracking and brittle or the shingles could curl in extreme weather.  All of this needs to be evaluated by a professional.  Roof repairs and general maintenance will lead to your roofs longevity.

Your homes deck may need maintenance after a rough winter.  If it has been a few years since you have done maintenance on your deck consider applying a fresh coat of stain and sealer.  This will help to maintain your deck and prevent the need for replacing decking boards later.  In order to properly care for your deck you may need to hire a general contractor to assist you.  They will pressure wash the deck, removing all of the built up dirt and then scrape off any stain that is chipping or pealing that does not come up with power washing.  Decking is then sanded down, a primer is applied if needed and a new coat of stain seals the deck.  It is then ready for spring, summer and fall celebrations and barbeques.

Another spring tip is to check the plumbing within your kitchen and bathroom.  This does not mean you need to do a complete kitchen remodel or bathroom renovation but check the plumbing including faucets, drains, hoses, toilets and any unusual smells that have crept up over the winter.  Smells could mean that a leak has occurred and gone unnoticed.  It is important that the plumbing in your home is mold free, leak free, thoroughly cleaned, inspected and updated on an as needed basis.

The spring is the perfect time for home renovations.  Doing updates in the spring leaves time open and available for all the fun that summer weekends provide.  Checklists in the winter and maintenance in the spring leave for adventures in the summer and fall.

Jason Foldenauer Construction, out of Howell and Brighton Michigan, offers a variety of home renovations to clients ranging from bathroom and kitchen remodeling to home additions and storage sheds.  Contact http://www.jfcremodeling.com today for your entire home renovating needs.

Preparations For Your Next Camping Expedition

Camping is all about exploring nature as well as reconnecting with yourself, your friends and your family. Although there are many people that thrive while camping there are plenty of others who get concerned with the idea of camping in the heart of the woods at night. The best way to calm any fears associated with camping is to be prepared for the adventure.  Read on to better equip yourself for your next camping expedition.

One fear many new campers have is that they will not enough food for the number of days and nights they will be surviving in the great outdoors.  It is important to stock up and pack accordingly when it comes to food.  This will ease your stress and make the experience a lot simpler.  Prepare meals that can be warmed up over the campfire.  Preparing as many meals as you can at home ahead of time helps with meal time.  Storing your meals in plastic bags and freezing them ahead of time will also help to keep the meals unspoiled.

Another area in which evokes a bit of fear is the experience of sleeping in a tent.  Sleeping bags are exceptionally comfortable and can be purchased in a variety of weights to ensure no matter what weather you are camping in that you remain warm.  A camping pad can be brought along if the idea of sleeping on the floor is too much for you.

Many people enjoy exploring nature when camping.  With this in mind it is important that you have with you the right navigational tools.  A GPS is not always the best option especially when you are in the middle of the dense woods.  Take a compass with you on all of your hikes.  If you happen to become turned around you will easy be able to navigate in the direction of your campsite with the use of a compass.

Don’t over pack when it comes to survival tools.  A basic survival knife can not only fulfill the duties needed in the kitchen but can be used to gather kindling, cut up fish, or whatever else you may find yourself needing a multi-purpose tool.  There are several top brand name knife manufacturers.  Look for a knife that has both a serrated and straight edge to provide you the most use on your adventure.  One that folds into itself is often better for carrying with you in your camping supplies.

multi-tool pocket knife can be useful as well.  Carrying a multi-tool pocket knife is a smart idea because not only does it fit in your pocket it also provides useful tools such as silverware, tweezers, nail files, pliers, nail clippers and more.   You never know when a splinter will become embedded into your skin and a multi-tool pocket knife can help.  Some smaller pocket knives with multiple tools on them have flashlights as well.  Extra light is always useful especially when camping.

Prepare yourself with a positive attitude and as much or as little camping gear as needed to make your trip not only memorable but also enjoyable.  This article gives you some ideas on what you may want to bring with you.  Remember that besides the necessities of bug spray, food and sleeping bags some entertainment around the campfire is always nice.  A small compact deck of cards can always help with that!

KnifeMule.com is an online retailer specializing in a variety of specialty knives including top brands such as Zero Tolerance, Boker Tree Knives, W.R. Case Knives and more.  For more information or to purchase a variety of knives online find us at https://www.knifemule.com.

Mortgage Solutions Every Type Of Mortgage Need

Seeking out a mortgage can be an incredibly confusing task. It is not so much difficult but more overwhelming. The most solid piece of advice that can be given to people looking to refinance or to obtain a mortgage is to look around and get a variety of quotes from a number of different companies. Not only are you looking for the best terms and rates within your mortgage you are looking for a broker that provides you with exceptional customer service.

When you are shopping around for a mortgage and company to work with you will understandably find yourself in a difficult position. In order to sort through all of the information that is being handed to you it will be important to be organized. As a mortgage seeker you will want to scrutinize all of the details and ask questions about the variety of mortgage quotes you have been given. Compare the mortgage quotes you have been given along with the service you have been provided. This will help you narrow the field down substantially. A low rate is not everything and can be deceiving in mortgages. Be sure to thoroughly review and compare each option.

Mortgage seekers should use the information below as a base guideline when shopping for a new home loan, refinancing and other options in mortgages.

1) Don’t necessarily take the first mortgage quote you are given. It is important to review the details, ask questions and even negotiate to ensure that you are getting the best mortgage for your current situation.

2) Shop around for a variety of mortgages with several mortgage companies. The broker you deal with should also be handpicked. If you are dealing with a broker that you find difficult to deal with and find their explanations hard to understand ask for someone new to assist you.

3) Low sounding interest rates draw you in but don’t let them deceive you. There is a catch to everything from low mortgage rates to low monthly payments on car loans. Somewhere you will be picking up the expense.

4) Check on redemption penalties or early pay off penalties. You will want to find a mortgage without any penalties for refinancing with another company or for paying your mortgage off before it is due. This will be hidden well in the small print and not something that will be publicized. In order to not cheat yourself ask about these fees upfront.

5) Never pay for a quote for your mortgage. New mortgage quotes, refinances, reversed mortgage quotes and home loans quotes should all come free of charge.

6) You should know that even though you get a quote from a lender that does not obligate you to sign up for a mortgage with that firm. A quote is free from obligation and therefore none should be felt.

7) You should feel free to share with each of the brokers and mortgage companies that you are shopping around for the best rates and terms. This will automatically make them bring their best offer to the table knowing that there is competition in the mix.

For more information or to find a mortgage lender in your area look online today. There are a number of local brokers that represent a variety of mortgage companies from all across the country.

Cross Country Mortgage in Brighton, Michigan provide mortgage services for clients including new home loans, refinancing, reversed mortgages, new purchase home mortgages and home equity loans to the entire Livingston County area including Brighton, Howell and Livingston County. Cross Country Mortgage Brighton, Michigan athttp://brightoncrosscountry.com/

The Importance Of Product Packaging and Labeling In Marketing

Marketing your product is essential to allow your brand flourish.  The steps you take within your marketing plan from packaging and labeling to the placement and product itself.  When it comes to identifying your product it is crucial that the products packaging and labeling is not only informational but also one in which draws attention to your target clientele.  If you fail to show interest in the design of your product label or packaging you will decrease your product visibility therefore hindering your sales.

Packaging

Packaging plays a vital role in marketing your product: containment, protection, promotion, usefulness and environmental impact.  It is fairly obvious why the containment and protection of your product is important to the marketing plan.  Without a product that is usable at the time when people purchase it you have nothing.  The package is also such a huge part of the promotion of your product.

A package that stands out lends itself to greater visibility. Develop a package that is useful.  When you can use and reuse the container the product comes in without having to transfer it to another package to keep it fresh the product becomes even more marketable.  Convenience and ease of use is something all consumers are looking for.  The final factor, environmental impact, is important to ensure that the package facilitates recycling and reduces the effect it has on the environment.

Labeling

Your label is what delivers your sales message from the shelf.  Not only is the design important but also the label material you choose; it must work well with the package you choose.  When it comes to your products label there are several techniques and materials to choose from: cut & stack labels, pressure sensitive, roll-fed labeling, shrink sleeves and flexible packaging.

Your label must fit the product package while providing an eye catching design and valuable product information.  The label design should promote good will within your target market.  Show your customers that your company and the product they are about to buy fit their values and beliefs.  For example, employ terms that promote a healthy lifestyle and images of smiling active kids and adults when selling food products that you want to sell to promote fitness and healthy living.

Don’t forget that the label must contain certain criteria like a UPC code.  Make sure that information does not take up valuable design space on the front of the label.  The front of your label should only include the information and design that is going to sell your product.  If the nutritional information sells your product than put it on the front of the design otherwise it should be placed on the back of the label.  The front of the label should be attractive and provide information that will make your target market gravitate toward it instead of the competition.

Your label should include a notable logo and recognizable design.  Bright colors and the shape of your products package will all come into play.  Incorporate this mixture into your marketing mix and you can guarantee a product that stands above the competition.

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 label design, printing and packaging needs.

Winter Is the Perfect Time To Plan For Your New Aluminum Fence

Winter is the perfect time of year to start planning for your aluminum fence.  Taking time to plan for the purchase now will ensure that you are settled on the details and your order is complete to be shipped at a later time of your choosing.  Working with an online aluminum fence supplier that offers full service throughout the planning, design, ordering and installation process; thus saving you time and money while ensuring a successful project.  Don’t gamble with shopping carts when you can work with companies that provide expert customer service while still enabling you to order online.

One of the most important things you can do is familiarize yourself with the variety of aluminum fence panels and options that are available.  This will help to ensure that your expectations are obtainable. Aluminum fencing comes in a several different grades.  You can choose from residential, pool, commercial and industrial grade fence panels.  The styles of aluminum fence available also vary a great deal.  It is nice to understand, before you are ready to order, the options available and what upgrades are available with each style.

When you have come to a basic understanding of the style and grade of fencing you are looking for the next step is to begin laying out the area that is to be fenced in.  This requires taking time to measure the space and to plan for gate entrance and exits.  You need to look at the existing landscape as well.   It is crucial that you accommodate landscape features that are permanent.  Make a simple drawing of the area; include measurements and details of the space.  This will not only be useful for you but to the fence expert that will assist you.

From your drawing the process of determining the needed fencing materials will be simplified.   From your drawing and measurements you can determine how many fence panels, end posts, transition posts, line posts and corner posts you will need.  You need to consider the width of the gates you want to install as well.  This is where the project tends to become overwhelming for beginners.  When you work with an online company that offers a full service approach you will be able to fax or email them your drawing.  They will then be able to better assist you in preparing to order your new aluminum fence.

Planning for your new fence is takes as much preparation, if not more, than the installation process.  If you take the time now to thoroughly plan and order the

The Growing Popularity Of Flexible Packaging

The packaging industry is one that is constantly evolving.  One of the biggest areas of growth is within flexible packaging.   Everyday major developments are happening with the materials, the manufacturing techniques and applications of flexible packages.  Check around the next time you are at the grocery store.  Can you spot the many uses of flexible packaging materials?  From frozen food to the deli counter, flexible packaging is becoming the most efficient, cost effective way to package.

When it comes to advances in packaging consider the last time you have seen a development in glass, aluminum or hard plastics.  The last time I remember a change in aluminum cans is with the development of pull tabs to avoid having to use a can opener.  With hard plastics the industry is always trying to create new ways to use more recyclable products and thinner shells.  The evolution of flexible packaging is seeing changes every day.  It isn’t just about the materials used to create the package but the functionality and cost effectiveness of using flexible packaging no matter what industry your product line falls into.

Flexible packaging is the result of using one or more layers of plastic film as the main material to package your product.  Simple flexible packaging is the result of using one layer of flexible film where as more advanced products may need several layers may be laminated together resulting in a co-extruded film. The number of layers needed for your products package will depend on a number of factors.  Consider the structural strength, resistant to tearing and air tight qualities the package needs to be to keep the air out and the flavors in when looking at the number of layers your package will need to be.

Flexible packaging is a preferred method by graphic designers as well.  When creating a product label on a flexible package the benefits are endless.  Label designers have a three hundred and sixty degree space to design and add additional product information.  This leaves them with endless design possibilities.  Print layers can be added directly to the flexible package when it is created.  This helps to save money. The package and label are created as one. In other traditional forms of packaging, such as glass and aluminum, the label is created separately and therefore needs an entire separate process to be added to the package.

The applications in which flexible packages are being designed are changing greatly every day.  It used to be that flexible packaging was used in combination with twist ties and zip lock fasteners.  Look around at different applications of flexible packaging the next time you are out and about.  You can find flexible pouches that have spouts to eat directly from, laundry detergent with on and off spouts and even easy to pour paint that is able to be resealed air tight.  Flexible packaging is taking over the product packaging industry.  It won’t be long until we see all of our favorite products in easy to use, less expensive flexible packages.

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 label design, printing and packaging needs.

The Benefits of Aluminum in Fencing

When looking to install a fence at your home there are many option to choose from. Out of the options that area available, aluminum fencing continues to be one of the most popular. The benefits of aluminum fences are overwhelming when customers are looking at the advantages and disadvantages of different materials available in fencing. Below you will find a number of reasons on choosing aluminum fence over other types of fencing.

  • Aluminum fencing gives owners the look of wrought iron but without the rust that is usually associated with it. If you are looking for a fencing material that does not require a ton of time or money to maintain than look no further than aluminum fence panels. Aluminum does not require a lot of time or money to maintain. The maintenance on an aluminum fence is as simple as a light washing every once in a while. There is no rust to scrape, no paint to touch up and never requires scrubbing to remove algae and mildew.
  • When it comes to options in fencing aluminum offers many choices. You can find aluminum fencing in grades best for residential use, pool use, light commercial use and heavy industrial use. Not only can you choose what grade you would like the number of styles and option you can blend together leave endless options for your homes new aluminum fence.
  • Aluminum is a corrosion-resistant material. Products made from aluminum do not corrode easily. When you install your new aluminum fence you will find that it is most likely offered with a powder-coat finish. This not only increases the beauty of the fence but also helps to protect the surface.
  • Installing aluminum fencing is trouble-free in comparison to other types of fencing materials. If you are a traditional do it yourself homeowner, installing aluminum fencing is a snap. Save the money on installation and follow the step by step instructions offered when installing aluminum fencing on your own.
  • If your aluminum fence happens to be damaged, which is unlikely given the durability of the materials used it is easy to repair. Repairs are easy on minor damage. If the damage to the fence is major, if a tree has fallen and demolished a section of fence an entire aluminum fence panel is easy to install without much disruption to the other parts of the fence.
  • When it comes to the weight of fencing, aluminum is a light weight material that is widely used in residential, commercial and industrial use. It is not only light weight but incredibly durable as well.
  • Aluminum fencing is affordable and most companies offer a lifetime warranty along with your purchase. What other materials in fencing offer a lifetime warranty?

When it comes to options available in fencing there are a number of choices available. Aluminum is a material that is not only maintenance free but is available in several grades and color choices as well as being offered with a lifetime warranty. Not only is aluminum fencing easily installed it is also simple to design and install. Online you will find a number of companies that offer aluminum fence for sale; be sure to find a company that is full service and offers experts to speak with when designing, ordering and installing your homes new fence.

iFence USA 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!

Computer Repair Questions Answered

Has your computer been acting strange lately? Whether it is running slow or having trouble loading email it is quite possible you have something deeper going on inside of your computer. When your computer stops working properly it is time to get it in for professional computer repair. The longer you wait, the worse the problem may get or the deeper a virus can become embedded. When selecting a computer repair company it is significant to find out what types of repairs they offer and whether they charge an hourly rate or flat service fee for computer services.

When it comes to computer repair the sooner you get help after having a problem the better. If your computer has become infected with a virus it is possible that it can further damage the internal components if not dealt with immediately. Don’t panic when something goes wrong with your computer. The worst thing you can do when a problem arises is to run tasks, update programs or delete files. What you need to do is instantly shut the computer system down and bring it in for immediate repair.

Below we will answer computer repair questions relating strictly to computer viruses.

What should a computer user do if they suspect that a virus has infected their computer?

As mentioned earlier it is important to shut the computer down and take it in for a professional computer virus removal. After the virus has been removed completely from the system you must install up to date antivirus software. With antivirus protection the computer system is less likely to become infected again. Antivirus protection doesn’t eliminate the possibility of viruses but helps to cut down on the likelihood your computer will become infected. Free antivirus protection is often as equally protective as the paid versions as long as it is frequently updated. Updates on antivirus protection are important to prevent new virus strands from infecting your computer.

What should computer users do to avoid getting a virus?

Not only should computer users install antivirus protection they should be careful about what they open and download. Use a trusted internet browser such as Google Chrome or Firefox. These browsers are well known, popular and trusted in the internet community. When opening emails and downloading attachments be sure you know what you are downloading. Even if you know the sender the attachment could be infected. Hackers are known to get into the email systems and send out infected emails. You are more likely to open something when the email address is from someone you know. Also be careful when downloading tool bars and other tools meant to help your user experience.

What should a computer user do if their computer is getting slow?

Just like your car needs a regular tune up so does your computer. Computers are likely to become bogged down with programs that have been downloaded and installed that are actually not necessary to your user experience. A computer tune up will erase programs that are not in use. If the system is to overloaded and deleting files is not helping speed up the computer it may be necessary that your computer repair specialist do a complete operating system reload. With this the computer will be returned to exactly how it came straight out of the box. You will need to reload any software you use back on to the computer as well as the information on the back up that is needed by the user.

Computers Plus Service, in Brighton Michigan, provides a wide range of valuable services for residential computer repair as well as a variety of commercial computer services to the entire Livingston County area including Howell, Brighton and the surrounding areas. You can find out more about the services offered by CPS at http://www.cpsmi.com.