Livingston Reporting - page 273

Winter Proofing Tips For Your Roof

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Winter is here.  Temperatures are plummeting and soon we will begin to see ice and snow everywhere we go.  The Farmer’s Almanac informs us that this winter is going to be chillier than normal.  The bitter cold temperatures can wreak havoc on our roofs not to mention heavy snowfalls or snowfalls that melt and refreeze.  To ensure that your roof is in tip top shape for winter now is the time to inspect and winterize.  A little preparation can go a long way in saving your home from serious damage due to the winter weather.

As always if you feel uncomfortable up on your homes roof don’t chance it.  Roof repair is something all roofing contractors are used to doing.  Call a professional.  Not only do they know exactly what to look for as far as damage that is beginning on your roof, they also have the skill and tools to complete the task at hand without issue.

Winter Proofing Your Roof

  • Your roof needs to be inspected throughout the year.  This is never more important than before the winter season.  Not only should you inspect the roof but check out the shingles and the gutters as well.
  • Gutters should be free of debris to allow water to flow through them with ease.  If there is an issue it is so much simpler to address without piles of snow in the gutters.  If the gutter is clogged with leaves ice dams can occur and ruin shingling.
  • Your roof should be cleared of all fallen debris.  Twigs, leaves and large branches are all detrimental to your roof.  Also, stagnant water can be captured and stored more easily under roof debris.  This is just one reason that it is better to have a clean roof going into the winter season.
  • Check the interior of your home as well.  Check the attic for small brown spots that indicate a leak.  The same would be noticeable on drywall ceilings.  If you spot anything that indicates a leak you must find out where the cause of the issue lies and fix it.  If left untreated severe damage can occur.
  • Look at the sealant around the roofs perimeter as well as around flashing, chimneys and skylights.  Add an extra bead of caulk and sealant around the edges if you suspect any loose or cracking areas.  It never hurts to take the old sealant off and replace it with new if you can tell it is aging.
  • Once winter is in full swing it is a good idea to purchase a solid roof rake.  This one tool can save you a ton of money.  When you see that snow is piling up on the roof you can easily remove the snow around the edges.  This will help to prevent ice dams and prevent heavy snow loads from piling up on your roof.

Roofing contractors are your best source of information when it comes to roof repair and preventative maintenance.  In order to keep your roof in top shape it is important that you take care of it.  Preventing issue before they arise is the key to a well maintained 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

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Simple Roof Maintenance Tips

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

No matter where you live the seasonal climate changes can take a toll on your home.  During the spring you are inundated with storms and wet weather while summer offers us lots of humidity and steamy temperatures. Fall is beautiful with perfect temperatures and then comes winter.  Here in the north winter is full of bizarre weather trends.  You can have one day with a foot of snow, the next brings in an ice storm and the week could end with sunny temperatures.  You can see how these drastic changes in the weather can make it difficult to maintain the integrity of your homes roofing.

It is crucial that you prepare your home ahead of time.  Simple maintenance can help to ensure your home is well prepared for the winter.  It can help ensure that your home and roof are not damaged during the winter season.

Winter weather is often a combination between rain, ice and snow. In order to prevent your homes roof from leaking it is important to make sure that the roof is in tip top shape.  If your roofs condition is good it is far less likely to develop a leak.  As the end of fall approaches take time to inspect your roofs condition.  Grab a ladder and head out onto the roof.  Clear away extra debris and fallen leaves.  Check for cracked and missing shingles.  Inspect your shingles to see if they are rotting or missing large chunks of asphalt and grit.  These old, withered shingles should be replaced.  If you are not comfortable doing this yourself hire a roofing contractor.  They are equipped with the right tools to inspect and repair any damage seen on your homes roof.

Fall and spring are the two seasons in which it is really important to inspect your homes gutters.  Gutters only work as intended if they are clear of debris.  If the gutters empty out close to your home you will need to dig trenches using plastic drains and pea gravel and elongate the area in which the drain.  It is important that the gutters so not empty close to your home as that often leads to leaks within your homes basement through cracks in the foundation.   Gutters must be cleaned out often.  Water must freely flow through them to prevent damage.

Other maintenance tips to keep your home running efficiently throughout the winter season is to check for cracks in the weather stripping around the doors and windows of your home.  Repairing even the smallest cracks will improve the homes efficiency.  This helps keep your homes heating and cooling systems functioning properly as well.

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

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Five Tips When Designing Your Products Label

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Your products label should be designed in a manner that is appealing and draws consumers in.  Your label should entice people to buy the products within your product line.  There aren’t a whole lot of ground rules when it comes to designing a perfect product label.  There are a few ground rules to consider following in order to guarantee that your product label is visually appealing.

Attractive Graphics

The graphics on your label are an incredibly important part of the overall design of the label.  Attractive graphics aren’t something that come easily.  A graphic designer should be employed to design the graphics on your label.  An impressive graphic will help to grab the attention of potential customer faster than any number of words that grace a products label.

Color Choices

Choosing the colors for your products label are super important to the growth of your brand.  The colors on your label will lead consumers to gravitate towards your product line as it continues to grow.  The colors on the label will evoke consumer’s feelings.  It is important that the colors you choose invoke the feelings you desire customers to feel about your product.  The colors on your label should accentuate the products packaging and create visual appeal.

Choosing Fonts

The font on your product is as important to the overall label design as is the color and graphic choices.  Choose a font outside the normal range of fonts.  Consider a font outside the realm of Windows font choices.  Fonts that are new, artistic and ground breaking will outweigh the frequently used fonts your competition uses.  The font should be easy to read, appealing and eye catching.  It is also important that you don’t use too many fonts on the label.  Limit the number of different fonts you use when designing your new product label.

Enticing Vocabulary

Remember that a first impression takes only a seconds.  The text on your label should influence your audience to buy the product.  Use words that are meant to grab attention; short catchy descriptions about your product work well to entice buyers.

Product/Contact Information

Your label not only needs to contain information about your product but also information on how to contact your company.  This information should be added to the label in a manner that does not detract from the graphics, colors or visual appeal.  The information needs to be located on the label where it is easy to spot, easy to read and does not detract from the labels message.

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

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Marketing Success With Shrink Sleeve Labeling

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Product labeling is a significant aspect that helps impact a products success or failure.  In order to be sure of your products success it is crucial that you implore materials that will get the job done.  If your product is going to succeed it is crucial you maximize your chances of success and that starts with the choosing shrink sleeves for your products labeling.

Although there are a variety of materials to choose from when considering product labeling it is important, in order to succeed that you choose the label that offers your product the most benefits.  Shrink sleeve labeling offers more benefits over other labeling options and fits every budget.

In order to understand how shrink sleeve labeling can benefit your company and products it is beneficial to understand what advantages exist when you choose to use shrink sleeves in labeling.

Labels made from shrink sleeves are created from affordable materials.  You can manufacture shrink sleeves for a variety of products.  Shrink sleeves are incredibly versatile and can be designed to work with even odd shaped products.  So as a manufacture if you are looking for an affordable option in labeling and have a product that is uniquely shaped, look no further; shrink sleeve labeling is your best option.

If you are looking for a labeling option that offers a large visual impact you will find that when using shrink sleeves.  No matter what size or shape your product is packaged in, shrink sleeves offer an appealing label.  Shrink sleeves have been known to be a leader in labeling, often preferred by consumers over traditional labeling alternatives.

Once recent concern has been the footprint left behind with the use of shrink sleeves. It is crucial to understand that shrink sleeves can now be produced without causing harm to the environment.  Shrink sleeves are produced using biodegradable materials that do not harm the natural environment.  As a product manufacture it is important to understand that you can get results without leaving behind a giant black mark.

There are a number of options when it comes to choosing a material to create your products label out of.  Look at the advantageous offered and choose the right option for your product and company.  Labeling is one of the most basic components in product development.  When picking a label material you should look at the benefits it offers, the rewards it offers and the overall cost.  Shrink sleeve labeling offers a wide variety of benefits as well as being a financially conscience way in which to label your product.

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.

Anchor Printing

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Tips To Help Design An Appealing Product Label

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

In business when you create a new product one of the most important things to consider is the products packaging and label.  An appealing product label works wonders to help boost sales of your product. The package and label are the first things to draw consumers to your product.  The label is what creates the desire of the shopper; will they purchase your product or pass in favor of another more alluring product.

Visual appeal is the guiding force in marketing.  Consumers are lured in by a products visual appeal.  Your products label is the main attraction that will draw consumers in. With that in mind you must find a way to package and label your product in a tempting manner.  The label should be clear, concise and should grab the attention of a wide range of consumers. Creating a label is not difficult; creating a label that effectively markets your product is the challenging part.

When designing your products label there are a few things that can hinder the appeal if not considered carefully.  It is important to remember that too many colors can clutter the label and instead of drawing attention to your product it can turn customers off.  A classic label that can retain its appeal over time is what you are looking when designing your products label.

Different colors entice different feeling and emotions.  In label design it is important to understand what emotions are conjured when using a combination of colors.  Use appropriate colors to entice the emotions you are looking for with your product.  Brighter colors such as oranges and yellows elicit energy while blues and greens bring on feeling of calm and serenity.  Consider what impression you wish you leave on consumers when thinking about the colors to use in your new label design.

It is also important that after a design has been solidified that you ask the label printing company for a sample before ordering.  The color process that is shown on the screen when designing your label does not always come through after printing especially with the number of materials that labels can be printed on.  Shrink sleeve labeling, cut and stack labels, pressure sensitive and roll fed labels will all print color differently.  When contemplating a label you need to be one hundred percent sure about the decision as the label is what will be representing your brand and new product.

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

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Aluminum Fencing – Beneficial To Do It Yourself Homeowners

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Aluminum fence has proven time and time again to be superior over other types of residential fencing.  Not only does aluminum fence offer unparalleled security, it is aesthetically pleasing.  In recent years the installation of fences and gates made from aluminum has grown exponentially.  There are many benefits that are provided with aluminum fencing that is not available from other types of fencing materials.  Below is an in-depth comparison to help you see why your new fence should be aluminum.

Wooden fences tend to be fairly inexpensive making them attractive to many homeowners.  There are several issues that arise when purchasing wooden fence.  One issue is the upkeep and maintenance is incredibly rigorous.   To keep your wooden fence appealing to the eye you must power wash and stain the fence with weatherproof stain at least every two years.  If you do not keep up on a regular maintenance schedule the wood tends to rot out and the fence needs to be replaced.  The difference in aluminum is that it is basically maintenance free.  Aluminum does not require additional painting, stain removal or washing to keep it beautiful.  If some algae were to appear you may need to spray the fence, but a power spray is the most maintenance that is required to maintain aluminum fencing.

Another benefit that is unique to aluminum fencing is the trouble free installation process.  When you receive aluminum fence panels you will notice not only their durability but also their flexibility.  They are easily placed within the ground and secured together.  When your fence arrives, it will come with a do it yourself installation manual that walks you through the process of digging holes to the correct depth to placing the last piece in place. Homeowners see a substantial savings in installation costs.

With the strength of aluminum fencing it is important to realize you are able to add decorative elements to the fence without compromising its integrity.  Some homeowners choose to add lights, others add flower boxes and on some commercial fences, signs hang.  It is good to know that the fence is durable and will withstand the wear and tear a family unit will put on the fence.

If you are looking for fencing to secure your yard or pool check into aluminum fencing options that meet your need and specifications.  Many online fencing companies work with homeowners looking to design, order and install their own aluminum 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!

iFenceUSA

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Maintenance Free Fencing

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Maintenance free fences seem like quite the oxymoron however when it comes to designing, purchasing and installing aluminum fencing that is what you get. Aluminum fence panels have so many benefits over other traditional styles of fence. In this article we will address many of the questions people ask before they purchase aluminum fencing panels such cost, sturdiness, styles and more.

Aluminum fence panels are offered in four different grades; one of the four grades is sure to meet not only your budget but also you needs. Homeowners often feel that because aluminum fencing is so aesthetically pleasing it is not going to be affordable. This is untrue. When you look into the maintenance required on other types of fencing the extra initial expense of aluminum fence is far outweighed. Think about the maintenance that is required of wooden fences. They require yearly power washing and weatherproof staining. This expense, on top of the time required to provide the upkeep outweighs any extra outlay when first purchasing your new fence. It is also good to know that aluminum fencing increasing the overall value of your home as well.

Questions arise about aluminum fencing sturdiness as well. Homeowners want to know if the fence they are about to purchase is going to withstand. It is important that the grade you choose matches the purpose that your family will be using the fence for. A residential grade aluminum fence will support up to two hundred pounds on it without causing damage. Residential grade aluminum fence is perfect for containment around a yard or pool. If you are looking for something for security situations check into commercial or industrial grade fencing.

Homeowners that prefer to do household maintenance and repairs themselves often want to know if they will be able to install aluminum fencing on their own. With aluminum fence panels the answer is YES! Most any homeowner, given the right basic tools, can easily install aluminum fencing. The fence panels come pre-assembled and the posts are punched out so that each piece fits together like a puzzle.

Reputable online aluminum fence retailers offer design services that take into consideration the layout and dimensions of your landscaping. From their customer service representatives can put together a detailed proposal and instruction packet to help simplify the installation process even more.

Aluminum fencing comes in a variety of colors and styles to meet the wants and needs of all homeowners. It is also simple to repair aluminum fencing if it ever does become damaged. It is simple to see from the vast benefits derived from aluminum fencing why it continues to be one of the most popular fencing options.

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!

iFenceUSA

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The Advantages Of Aluminum Fencing

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Homeowners install backyard fences for a variety of reasons.  Homes that have in-ground pools install pool fencing to prevention children and pets from entering the pool area without adult supervision.  A pool fence helps prevent accidental drowning.  Some homeowners choose to install a fence not to only keep people from entering their yard but also to keep people in.  Fencing is often installed to keep children and pets contained within a space as well.  The good thing to know is whatever your reason for installing a fence it will help to increase the value of your real estate as well as enhance the appearance of your home and yard.

With all these reason to install a fence the only question left is what type and style will you choose?  Aluminum fencing has become a popular option because of the many advantages it has over other materials available in fencing. Aluminum fence comes in four different grades, from residential to industrial fencing.  Although black aluminum fencing is the most popular option when choosing aluminum it is important to note that it is available in a variety of colors and styles.  Installing an aluminum fence will make you feel safe, secure and confident.

Aluminum Fencing Advantages

  • Warranty: If you are looking for a quality fence with a lifetime warranty look no further than aluminum.  A lifetime warranty against cracking, peeling and chipping along with workmanship defects is offered by aluminum fence manufacturers.
  • Colors:  There are multiple color and style options available in aluminum fencing.  The color options are available in each of the different grades of fencing that are sold as well.
  • Economical: With no maintenance requirements and long lifetime expectancies aluminum fence is highly economical.  The initial outlay on aluminum is more expensive than other options in fencing but knowing there is no maintenance or replacement costs in your future makes it less expensive over time.
  • Meets B.O.C.A. Standards: If you have installed a backyard in-ground pool rest assured that your aluminum fence meets the required safety standards set forth by the B.O.C.A.
  • Easy Installation: Aluminum fencing is one of the easiest materials to install for do-it-yourself homeowners.  Residential fence is made of durable, lightweight material.  Each panel is pre-assembled, with posts punched and gates welded into place.  The only real issue when installing aluminum fencing is digging the holes for the posts and that is something that has to be done no material what fencing material you choose.

You can easily see why aluminum fencing is such a popular option amongst residential, commercial and industrial users.  Shop online to find a fence distributor that will help you select a complimentary aluminum fence for your needs.

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!

iFenceUSA

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Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Transformers

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

 

It is important to properly install electrical components of all varieties.  This is especially crucial with the installation of transformers. Below you will find some important tips on properly installing a transformer.

If you are installing a transformer outdoors it is important that you take precautions to keep the public safe as well as the transformer safe from outdoor elements.  When picking a location for the transformer take into consideration a location that minimizes the ability of the transformer to become damaged from human and natural elements. Keep the transformer away from hazards that might fall on top of it or run into it.  Minimize the risk by location the transformer in a safe environment.

Depending on the location of the outdoor transformer will depend on how the enclosure should be built.  The building should be secure so that small fingers, hands and objects cannot get inserted in but that allow for proper ventilation.

If you have an extremely heavy transformer be sure that the ground on which it sit is firm.  The area needs to support the unit without any shifting.  Soil rich in clay should be avoided.  It is recommended that the soil be sturdy enough to avoid any shifting or sinking of the transformer unit.

Indoor transformers have further considerations to keep in mind.  If you have a heavy transformer the area needs to be located in a structurally sound space.  You must ensure the structure has the integrity to withstand the weight of the transformer over a long period of time.  Support beams and columns best support heavy weight well.

To keep the unit from overheating the proper ventilation is required.  Never install a transformer up against the wall.  The transformer will perform best if as much air as possible is allowed to surround the exterior of the unit.  The goal is for the unit to remain the same temperature as the air that surrounds it.

The unit will be noisy.  Be sure it is placed in an area with sound-absorbent materials on the wall.  A location without too many people within the area would work well.

For both dry-type and liquid-filled transformers water and humidity can create problems for the unit.  A location that is free of humidity and water are important for the wellbeing of the transformer.  It should also be an area free of containments. Keep the space in a pollutant free environment as well.  The location should also be easily accessed.

As you can see when it comes to the location of the transformer it is crucial.  Without a perfect location, proper maintenance and adequate care your transformer will have unexpected performance issues.  This can cost a lot to repair as well as cause major delays.  This can all be avoided simply by locating the unit in a place that takes into the special location requirements necessary for transformer units.

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.

J & P Electrical Company

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Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Electrical Disconnects

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

There is so much to learn about the vast array of electrical components that are used in our everyday lives.  One of the systems that is critical in electrical circuits is the disconnect switch.  A disconnect switch is used to interrupt the power running to an electrical circuit or group of circuits.  Disconnects provide safety in a wide variety of settings in which they are used.  In commercial and residential applications disconnects are used to de-energize the circuit in order for it to be worked on safely.  In order to be one hundred percent effective it must be installed and maintained properly.  It also requires that safety procedures are followed and proper education is provided for those in charge of operating it.

In commercial use, disconnects are used for power distribution.  Disconnect manages the distribution of power throughout the plant.  If one area of the planet needs more electricity, disconnects allow the flow of electricity to be switched.  This enables one area to have use of more electricity than another area.  If a section of the plant needs maintenance, disconnects allow power to be shut down in that section and remain on in other areas.  Disconnects are used for safety as well.  If the power is needed to be shut down in the entire plant all at once disconnects are locked out.  This also saves them from accidentally being turned on before the area is secure and ready.

Lockout systems are important because they prevent the system from being turned on without being ready.  There are different times in which disconnects are used.  One is in need of maintenance and one is in need of emergency.  The lockout is so important in that reintroducing power or electricity into the circuit before the system is ready can be incredibly dangerous.  In residential uses a lockout could be something as simple as a piece of tape holding the switch in the off position.  For safety it is important that the person that turns disconnects off is the one to restart it.  This leaves one person in charge of the electricity which provides an extra level of safety to the situation.

Although in residential uses disconnects are often manually controlled as in an on and off switch commercial uses may choose to operate disconnects with a key.  This way it helps to confirm that the user is meaning to deactivate the switch.  In some systems once the power is disconnected the system needs to completely restart once the switch is connected again.

There are many different disconnects available for sale for a number of different residential and commercial uses.  Make sure when you purchase disconnects that you choose one that is rated for the application you will be using it for.  Choosing disconnects that are over powered or under powered poses a safety risk.  It is best to purchase exactly what you need to meet your requirements.

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.

J & P Electrical Company

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