Livingston Reporting - page 292

Obtaining Personal Growth Throughout Your Divorce

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

For most women and men the divorce process is an unpleasant one.  Unfortunately divorce tends to play out in a very dreadful manner that leaves both parties at a loss and filled with heartache and sorrow. It also leaves both parties filled with wonderful opportunities that take time to fully discover.  For most people who end up going through a divorce the reason for the divorce is simple; they were simply incompatible and were not destined to continue with their marriage.  Many divorcees are decent people ready to move on to the next phase in their lives.  The question is how this can be accomplished while allowing the healing process to continue and providing protection to a fragile heart.

First things first don’t think that because many of your friends who have gone through a divorce and are now friends with their exes that this can easily be accomplished in your situation.  Give yourself time. You don’t need to be friends right now.  You need to conduct your relationship as you would a business for right now. You should set boundaries and rules that will allow you to continue to parent your children but that allow you to grow as individuals. If as time goes by a friendship occurs that is fine but don’t assume it needs to happen.

When it comes to preparing you for the actual legal separation find a solid divorce lawyer that has a reputation for settling through the meditation process.  Heading into a divorce considering it a war that will only be won through a deceitful, long battle is not the best option especially when children are involved. Finding a lawyer that works a well in mediation but that also has a winning record when faced with litigation is optimal.  Mediation is especially beneficial to both parties when a working relationship has been proven and similar goals are desired.  Couples that end their marriage through the mediation process often salvage a better working relationship once the divorce is finalized.

Parenting through a divorce is difficult especially in situations where parenting was a major issue of contentment in the marriage.  It is so important to remember that the only thing that matters is your children when dissolving your marriage.  Most parenting plans that work out the best are written in a format that lets the children know the plan is being written for them directly to them.  When developing a plan consider that one day this piece of paper could be shared with them.  You need to work as a team on their behalf to create a parenting plan that moves everyone in the forward direction working as one.

When it comes to parenting, the divorce and many matters that will come up in between filing and finalization it is vital that the two parties learn to agree to disagree.  You are getting a divorce for a specific reason.  There have been obvious disagreements; these may stem from finances, parenting, family issues or something else.  The reason is not important once you have decided to no longer be married to one another.  The issue still remains that you disagree.  Coming to terms with this and learning to let go and agree to disagree will help you move forward in the long run.

Longton DM, a subsidiary of Longton Law Offices is a divorce attorney specializing in Women/Mom’s in divorce.  For experienced representation throughout the divorce process in Michigan you can find more information at http://www.michigandivorcelawyerforwomen.com/afterdivorce.php.

 

Longton Law

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Regaining Inner Power During Divorce

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

When going through a divorce it is hard not to feel powerless and out of your element.  The territory of divorce is usually one that is undiscovered for most couples.  When a divorce has been decided upon it becomes imperative that you understand your rights when it comes to everything from spousal support to child custody to the division of marital assets. Many people will give you advice to follow from filing for divorce to when the divorce is final.  This advice may apply to you or not.  As quick as advice comes in it can often be discarded.  What applies to you will stick.  Below you will find a list of survival tips.  Again, most of this may not apply to your situation but it is important that you hear it and apply what is needed.

Divorce is often fought like a war.  War as we have come to know it is a long, drawn out battle between two different sides.  Conflict arises from two parties and often spreads like wild fire.  When it comes to divorce families take sides and issues come about that were long forgiven while the marriage was intact.  If at all possible try to dissolve your marriage as privately as possible. Keep the information between the two of you as much as possible.  This will alleviate a lot of stress and will keep the possibilities open for an amicable divorce through mediation.  Mediation tends to save both sides time and money by providing a joint agreement without litigation in court.

Before you actually file or think you are going to be served with papers start preparing yourself financially as well as finding a trustworthy source of legal aide. Start meeting with several lawyers to determine whose advice, results and tactics are in line with how you are feeling you would like your divorce proceeding to move forward. This will save you time when you are feeling the most fragile and allow you to be one step ahead alleviating a stressful situation from elevating to a place of no return.

Don’t allow yourself to fall into a trap. Some spouses try to convince you will end up without the means to support yourself let alone keep your children.  Believing this will only allow them to be in a power position over you and your emotions.  Don’t give into this time of emotional abuse.  Through mediation or litigation the house, custody, child and spousal support and assets will be divided.  Your spouse is not in control of this process.  You both will decide, along with the support of your divorce attorney and legal team through mediation or litigation how your joint lives will be separated into two.

The thing about divorce that makes giving concrete advice difficult is that no two divorces like any two marriages.  Marriage and divorce are made of a complex combination of pieces that don’t always apply to every situation.  Weeding through the advice that applies to you will create an individualized guide to help you move forward in any given situation including your divorce.  Take the advice that applies and apply it; disregard anything and everything that doesn’t apply as not to create any resentment that isn’t needed.

Longton DM, a subsidiary of Longton Law Offices is a divorceattorney specializing in Women/Mom’s in divorce.  For experienced representation throughout the divorce process in Michigan you can find more information at http://www.michigandivorcelawyerforwomen.com/afterdivorce.php.

Longton Law

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The Next Steps In Preparations For Lasik Eye Surgery

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

When it comes to Lasik eye vision correction surgery you will want to make sure that you follow the pre-surgery and post-surgical instructions you are given closely. Each part of the procedure starting with the initial consultation to the final consult is an important step in optimal vision.  Not following directions or giving full disclosure to your surgeon on your medical history could put you at risk for complications that are unnecessary.  When Lasik is performed correctly and patient directions are followed the risks associated with the procedure are decreased tenfold.

The day before the surgery is as equally important as the day or the days following the surgery. You must arrange to be driven to and from the office as well as to and from your follow up appointment.  You will want to make sure this is arrangement is confirmed the day before the operation is set to take place.  Often times Lasik patients will be given medicine that helps them relax before the appointment.  This medicine will make it impossible for you to drive yourself.  After your surgery your vision will be blurry and it is important to keep the strain off your eyes.  This is why a driver is so important the Lasik procedure. A support person is also important after your surgery.

The day of surgery your eye surgeon will give you a list of requirements in order to prepare for the surgery.  It is important that they day of your surgery you do not apply any facial or body creams, lotions, make-up or perfumes.  Each and every one of these products has an associated risk of infection.  Most eye surgeons will ask that you scrub your eyelashes and surrounding area for a substantial amount of time before the surgery to remove any foreign debris and left over residue that can often be found on the lashes.

More often that now Lasik is performed in the office as an outpatient surgery.  On average the procedure is relatively fast that takes under an hour to perform.  You will be asked to sit in a reclining chair in an exam room that contains a laser system to perform the operations. Numbing drops will be placed in your eyes, the area will be cleaned once again and your eyelids will be held open with a speculum. A slit will be cut into the cornea and the laser surgery will be performed.  This part of the procedure will be different based on the level of vision correction needed as well as the individual patient.

After the surgery is finished a shield is placed over the eye for protection.  It is super important that you don’t rub or put any pressure on you eye.  The shield will protect the eye while you sleep and will keep the eye from accidentally being hit or poked until the flap is healed. You will need to abstain from eye make-up, creams, sports, swimming and other activities that are strenuous or breed bacteria.  You will also want to where the eye shield at night for a month after the procedure.  A follow up visit with the eye surgeon will be scheduled within the first twenty four hours after surgery.  They will direct you with detailed instructions on the do’s and don’ts after Lasik.  Follow them and the healing process should be easy and free of complications.

Rohr Eye & Laser Center offers the most advanced technology in eye surgery available to suit your lifestyle.  To see what the leader in laser vision correction and cataract surgery has to offer you can find more information at http://www.michiganlasik.com/lasik.php.

 

Rohr Eye & Laser Center

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Preparations For Lasik Eye Surgery

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

With any surgery it is important to understand exactly what you should expect throughout the entire process from start to finish.  Every surgery, no matter how routine to the doctor and staff performing it is unique to you.  Each experience will be just a little bit different based on the perspective of the patient and the difficulty of operating on them.  The same is true with Lasik eye surgery as well.  The information below should be used as a basic guide.  Your experience will be different based on you as a patient, the degree of your specific eye situation and your eye surgeon.

Before Surgery

When you begin to contemplate Lasik eye surgery your first step will be to step up an initial consultation with a Lasik provider.  This evaluation will allow your surgeon to determine if you are a good candidate for the surgery or if it is best that you continue your current course of vision correction.  If you wear contacts you will want to stop wearing them before you meet with the surgeon.  When you call to set up the consultation they will ask you a series of questions and give you thorough instructions to prepare for you first visit.

When you meet with the surgeon for the first time you will be asked a series of questions.  This is the time to speak up about your past and present medical conditions medication that you are taking and any previous surgeries.  An eye exam will be performed and you will be told whether you are a good match for Lasik eye surgery or not.  Remember not everyone who wants Lasik will be able to have the procedure done.  For some vision issues Lasik vision correction surgery is not the best option for optimal results.

Once it has been determined that you are a good candidate for eye surgery the doctor and their staff will go over the details involved with the procedure.  The risks, benefits and alternatives to Lasik will be discussed as well as what to expect before, during and after the surgery and the aftercare that will be needed.  This is also the time you will want to discuss in detail any questions or concerns that you make have.

At this point most eye surgeons will explain that the surgery is something that really needs to be thought about and will give you time to think about how you are going to proceed.  You will not be pressured to make a definite decision that day.  You may find that after a few days of going through the material and having your initial questions answered that you have more concerns that need to be talked about.  This is why it is important not to feel pressured to make a decision right away.

Once you decide to have the Lasik eye surgery performed a date will be scheduled and for your procedure.  Be sure that you understand all the directions that the doctor and his staff has given you. Make sure that you follow orders with detailed precision this will help allow for a successful outcome to your procedure.

Our next installment will go into details about the day of the surgery, the surgery and after care.

Rohr Eye & Laser Center offers the most advanced technology in eye surgery available to suit your lifestyle.  To see what the leader in laser vision correction and cataract surgery has to offer you can find more information at http://www.michiganlasik.com/lasik.php.

 

Rohr Eye & Laser Center

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Eliminate The Risk In Online Jewelry Purchases

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

When buying anything online you may feel you are putting yourself at risk; this is especially true when it comes to online jewelry purchases. Jewelry purchases can be made with very little risk online with the following crucial pieces in place.

When looking to make a jewelry purchase online first check to make sure the site you are buying from offers a secure checkout.  Look for a SSL encryption or certificate upon checking out.  If you can’t find one or are unsure you can call to speak with the company.  A reputable company will have a quality website with employees available to take your phone calls and answer questions about their products as well as their website check out process. A professional and reputable online jeweler will have a specialized shopping cart in place with proper identification so that buyers know they are secure when checking out.

What is the online reputation of the jeweler?  Do a thorough review on the Internet into the company as well as with the Better Business Bureau.  Check any and all reviews.  Another good tip is to look at the about us section on the company’s website.  Many local, small town jewelers are expanding to the web.  These jewelers can offer you lower prices, superior quality but don’t have the money to advertise with glitz and glamour.  This does not make them less reputable than big box companies, if anything you may receive better service because they have a smaller number of clients to make happy.

Find out about the companies return policy and warranties offered.  The price of the piece should not be a concern at all when it comes to the companies warranty and return policy.  If a return needs to be processed are you limited to store credit or will you get a complete and full return of the purchase price?  Is there a restocking fee? Stones and jewelry settings should come with at least a five year warranty.  A solid product warranty, in my opinion, equals a solid company to purchase online from.

If you are looking into purchasing gemstones or diamonds you will want to find out as much information about the piece as possible.  You should have information such as the cut, color, clarity and carat weight as well as who they use to grade their stones.  Check to make sure that the stones are procured through legal sources.  If this is not clearly stated on the site you may want to call and check with the company.  It is important that you are not buying stones that are illegally being sold.  You also want to make sure the person grading the quality of the gemstone or diamond is reputable.

Purchasing jewelry online might take a bit more time and research than going to a big box store.  The benefit is in the cost savings and convenience that is gotten from purchasing jewelry online.  If you find an online company that you are drawn to but still feel uneasy about purchasing online call them.  Many online jewelers have local store fronts and would be just as happy to deal with you via phone, email and if the chance arises in person.

DaRoche Jewelers is on online jewelry company with a local feel.  You will find a variety of options in jewelry, including custom diamond solitaire engagement rings, online at http://www.darochejewelers.com/.

DaRoche Jewelers

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Basic Lessons In Caring For Jewelry

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Properly caring for jewelry is something that many people struggle with.  When it comes to wearing, cleaning, repairing, storing and shipping jewelry these tips will benefit your pieces no matter how much or how little they cost; the value of jewelry is the value your heart places on it.

The Basics In Wearing Jewelry

When it comes to wearing your favorite pieces of jewelry take care when performing everyday tasks.  When you are performing manual tasks such as cleaning the house or changing the oil in your car wearing your jewelry leads to exposure to harsh chemical s and physical damage.  It is better to remove your jewelry before many everyday physically demanding tasks.  It is also important that when applying makeup and playing sports that you safely store your jewelry.  Makeup, perfume and lotions can damage the appearance of jewelry.  In sports your pieces could become damage or even cause damage to your or another player.  It is best to avoid wearing jewelry when participating in sports.

Correctly Cleaning Jewelry Pieces

For the longest time cleaning jewelry meant I would wear it into the shower.  This is the exact opposite of cleaning your jewelry.  Soap and chemicals in shampoos can harm jewelry.  When cleaning jewelry it is found that a homemade cleaning solution or one purchased from your jeweler are the best options.  Be careful not to soak the pieces for too long and be gentle when cleaning settings and stones.  Using a polishing cloth can be helpful as well as they prevent film build up and are free of loose strings and threads that accompany many towels.  Another tip is to always rise the piece in warm water.  Hot water can cause certain types of metal to tarnish. When cleaning each piece check for any damage that has occurred.  A detailed inspection can prevent the loss of a treasured heirloom.

Reputable Jewelry Repair

You should be confident in the jewelry check in procedure upon dropping off your piece for repair.  Make sure they document each piece with a detailed description and that they do an inspection of gemstones and diamonds.  The same documents should be matched up with the documentation you have when picking the pieces up after repair.  Ask friends and neighbors for a referral based on previous jewelry repairs they were happy with.  When you meet with the jeweler that will be repairing your piece determine if it will be sent out or if the piece is repaired in house.  In house jewelry repair is always the safest option.

Storing Jewelry For Safe Keeping

Storing your jewelry when you are not wearing it is as important as any step in the process of owning and caring or jewelry.  Keep your pieces in a secure, organized location.  To prevent jewelry from tarnishing you can place anti tarnish strips in your jewelry box that will help collect any extra moisture and oxidants to help to prevent a build up from occurring.  It is also advisable that all jewelry that is being stored be inventoried in detail with pictures and documentation.  This is helpful if your jewelry is ever stolen.  It will be simple to see what pieces are missing based on your documentation.

Shipping Jewelry Safely

When you are shipping jewelry it is essential to use more than one box.  Never ship jewelry in only the box it comes in.  A piece should be secured in a jewelry holder and placed in an otter padded shipping box.  Padding should be added to prevent the inside box from moving at all.  All jewelry shipped should be documented properly and insured.  All boxes that contain jewelry should be secured well with tape.  The receiver should always have to sign for the package.  Never allow a shipper to leave boxes without it being signed off on.  If possible eliminate any wording on the box that refers to what the contents are inside the box.  All labels referring to jewelry should be removed prior to shipping.

The tips above will help you in the future when it comes to all the faucets involved in protecting your jewelry pieces.

DaRoche Jewelers is on online jewelry company with a local feel.  You will find a variety of options in jewelry, including custom diamond solitaire engagement rings, online at http://www.darochejewelers.com/.

DaRoche Jewelers

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Exploring The Advantages and Disadvantage Of Familiar Pool Types

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

When it comes to owning a pool, maintenance is key to the pool’s longevity.  One are that will require maintenance with your pool is the surface.  There are four main types of inground pool surfaces.  Before you install an inground pool it is best to know the advantages and disadvantages of the materials available.   Making an educated decision will prevent guesswork when it comes to the care of the pools surface.

Gunite Plaster Pools

A concrete, or gunite pool, is sprayed in concrete over a hole created for the pool.  After this initial process is complete plaster is applied using a trowel over the concrete to smooth out the pools final surface.  A deck surrounding a gunite plaster pool can vary along with the flow of the backyard.  A gunite pool can be placed virtually anywhere.

Advantages

  • Can Be Any Shape or Size
  • Custom Designed
  • Designed to Fit Landscape
  • Steps and Benches are Easily Added
  • Permanently Installed

Disadvantages

  • Labor Intensive to Build Initially
  • Can Crack
  • Regular Upkeep Needed on Plaster

Vinyl Lined Pools

Vinyl lined pools are created from steel walls that are lined with a vinyl liner that is the pools surface.  A hole is dug into the ground and the liner is fitted within the space. Decking can be installed around the pool and usually is a less permanent option than poured concrete.

Advantages

  • Least Expensive Pool Option To Install
  • Construct In Any Size and Shape

Disadvantages

  • Expensive Upkeep Overtime
  • Gets Wrinkled
  • Color Fades
  • Liner Pulls Away from The Steel Walls
  • Tears Easily

Fiberglass Pools

A fiberglass pool is made from reinforced plastic and fiberglass.  It is molded into a particular shape, including a deep basin.  The pool is installed in a hole that is approximately the same shape and size of the mold.  Plumbing is installed and sand and filler is added around the structure to create backfill under the preformed base.  The pool is leveled out, hooked up and ready to be filled with water.  Most fiberglass pools will be surrounded by a concrete deck platform.

Advantages

  • Ease of Installation
  • Versatile and Flexible
  • Strong and Virtually Maintenance Free

Disadvantages

  • Depth of the Pool is Limited
  • All One Piece

Each type of inground pool material has advantages and disadvantages ranging from initial design, maintenance, expense and upkeep.  The decision on the type of pool you are looking to install will come from the time you are willing to wait for it to be installed as well.  Fiberglass pools can usually be built and ready to go within a few weeks where as vinyl lined pools take as long as six to eight weeks and gunite anywhere from ten to twelve weeks.  The most common type of inground pools in the north is gunite plaster pools and fiberglass.  Fiberglass tends to be easier to maintain but is limited in size and shape to what is manufactured.  Concrete pools with a plaster overlay are the most versatile but will require more upkeep in the long run.

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 http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

 

Pound Pool Plastering

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Basics for New Pool Owners

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

There is so much that you will need to learn as a new pool owner.  Whether you purchase a home with an inground pool installed or are having a pool installed you will need a crash course on pools.  In this article we will cover a wide range of topics from opening the pool, maintenance and closing.

Most homeowners in the North use Memorial Day weekend as their pools opening date.  This is at about the same time the kids are getting out of school for the summer and will need something to occupy their time.  Opening the pool starts with gathering all the supplies needed.  Most pool owners will find having a storage shed is the best way to store pool chemicals and supplies together.

When opening the pool for the first time you may find stagnate water has created a puddle on the pools cover.   You will want to remove the water before removing the pools cover.  Once this has been done you will start to replenish the water, add chemicals to the water and connect the pools plumbing and filtration.  While you are doing this you should remove any large debris with a vacuum or skimmer so that the filter remains unclogged.

When it comes to maintaining your pool the chemical balance is incredibly important.  Without proper chemical balance the compound levels in the water will be unbalances and could create damage to the pools plaster surface.  It is also important when considering looking after your pool to check out the pools surface for cracks and signs of wear as well as the plumbing fixtures used to run the pool.  If wear is seen and replacement is inevitable it is simpler and more cost effective to do this prior to opening the pool for the season.

Daily upkeep, bug removal and chemical maintenance are needed throughout the season to ensure your pools longevity.  It is important that even when you are gone on vacation that your pool is being looked after.  Daily upkeep is essential to avoid any downtime enjoying the pool from improper chemical balance, algae growth and a nightmare with the pools vacuum upon your return.

Closing your pool for the season is as equally important as opening the pool.  If done properly opening the pool in the spring will be a piece of cake.  When closing the pool the first item to take care of is the chemical balance in the pool.  Adjust the pools ph balance, alkalinity and calcium hardness.  This should be done about five days prior to the actual shut down of the pool.

The pool also needs to be shocked using a strong chlorine solution that will kill all the bacteria living in the pool.  From here you should add algaecide to prevent algae from forming and to kill any that is already in existence.  Thoroughly clean the pool.  Remove and drain all pool equipment and store it in a dry place that is not exposed to winter elements. Drain the water in the pool to about a foot below the skimmer and cover the pool.

For new pool owners it is best to hire a pool crew to open, maintain and close your pool for at least the first summer that you have the pool.  They can help you come up with a detailed plan of maintenance and walk you through the process in order to prevent damage.

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 http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

Pound Pool Plastering

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The Importance Of Spring Roofing Inspections

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

When spring weather hits after a long, cold Northern winter homeowners start to get the itch to revamp their homes. This includes interior and exterior improvements ranging from replacing roofs to complete kitchen renovations.  Improvements that we will use and enjoy everyday always seem like the choice we want to make when allocating funds to renovations.  When contemplating what renovation to do next it isn’t always about what we want but sometimes what our home needs.  Your roof is your homes umbrella; if you need roof repair or roof replacement it is important that this is completed to prevent damage to the structure of your home.

A new roof is a big investment financially.  Roofing contractors can help you better understand the importance of keeping your roof’s structure and shingling in top shape.  A roof that has damage to the roofing materials including the underlayment and shingles is more susceptible to costly repairs down the road.  Leaky roofs lead to mold and water saturation that can compromise the structural integrity of your home.  As costly as replacing your roof can be structural damage to your home is worse not only on your pocket book but also the disruption to your life.

To save yourself from the stress that can be caused from a leaky roof or other roof damage it is important to hire a roofing contractor to inspect your roof at least once a year.  As a homeowner it is crucial you do regular visual inspections for obvious signs of roof damage but a thorough inspection once a year by a licensed roofing contractor is critical.

A roofing contractor knows exactly what to look for when it comes to damage to your roof; especially when the damage is not obvious and is just beginning to occur.  As a homeowner look for obvious signs such as streaking on the shingles, buckled and curled shingling, missing granules from the shingle, rusted flashing, moss and mold.  Also inspect the attic to look for any signs of water damage or leaks.  If you notice any extra moisture a roof inspection by a professional is an absolute must.  Keep track of your energy bills as well.  If you see a large jump in energy use this is a pretty good sign you need to have an inspection done on your roof.

As a homeowner it is essential that you maintain your home.  The same is true for your roofing.  I mention this as it is not as obvious as maintain something visual like your homes landscaping.  Often the roof maintenance is overlooked.  At least once a year, if not twice, you should venture up on the roof with the sole purpose of cleaning your ventilation system and exhaust vents.  This is also a great time to caulk any areas of wear around pipes and vents as well as painting any metal that is exposed and rusting. This is also the perfect time to maintain your gutters.

Many homeowners focus too much on the interior of their homes especially when they are considering putting the home on the market.  This is a huge mistake.  The curb appeal and first impression that a buyer has of your home plays a vital role in the emotions buyers feel touring your home.  A fresh, clean well maintained exterior can sway a buyer because let’s be honest the idea of redoing the kitchen is more appealing to buyers and their extra funds than adding a new roof.

Home Pro Roofing MI

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Home Maintenance Tips For Spring

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Spring has finally sprung in the North!  The thirteen weeks between winter and summer are the busiest time of the year for home improvements and maintenance.  After homeowners have been stuck inside for months we become anxious to get outside and enjoy the sunlight.  The one drawback, the sunlight enhances the gutters filled with decaying leaves, the burnt out landscaping, moldy roof line and deteriorating deck. Thirteen weeks till summer fun starts so prioritize and get a move on the important repairs.

The first place I like to start is with the gutters.  Especially in spring when everything is melting and rain is inevitable.  Check your homes gutters to ensure they are secured to the house.  Clean all debris from the gutters and make sure that they are flowing free of debris.  When gutters are not performing properly water can build up and cause improper draining into the crawl space or basement.  It is also important that your downspouts are in working order and draining away from the house.

Water pools in areas that are low lying within your yard.  These pools of water tend to create damage if too close to your homes foundation not to mention they foster bacteria growth and insect infestations.  Any low area in your lawn, especially those close to the home should be assessed and soil brought in.  Compact soil in low lying areas will help to create a secure foundation for your home.

Wood around your home needs to be thoroughly checked over.  One way to check for soft or rotting wood is to carry a screwdriver around and press the wood around windows, door walls, railings and decking.  If you come about a soft area it is time to replace the wood.  It is cheaper to maintain then to replace.  This is especially true with decking.  If you notice spots of your deck getting weak, replace the wood and use a sealer to minimize future wear.

The spring time is the perfect time to inspect the roof and attic.  From the ground you should be able to do a thorough check for missing shingles, loose granules and any other obvious damage from the winter.  If you see any buckling, cracking or loose shingles call a roofing contractor to come out and do a detailed roof inspection.  They will be able to assess if the roof can be repaired or if a new roof is inevitable.

If your home has a fire place and you have stored wood close to the house for the winter spring is the season you should move it.  Wood stored close to the home is a safe haven for a variety of inspects and outdoor pests.  To store the wood to keep it good for later use build a structure that is about a foot off the ground and away from the home.  You can cover the dry wood with a tarp to keep it dry throughout the season.  If you must keep wood close to your home try to move it at least two feet away from the foundation.

Turn the water on under the house for your hoses.  Also do a check of exterior faucets as well as a quick check on your crawl space entry.  Make sure the lines are open and water is flowing freely.  This is good to d once you are sure your area is free of frost and freezing.  Also check to see if the hose has suffered from dry rot if it was not safely stored inside for the winter.

Check and clean household electric and gas equipment such as your mower, weed whip, chain saws and trimmers.  Get these in working order.  This is also the time when you should check your outside grill.  Fill the propane, check the burners and grates.  You can replace defective parts inexpensively without replacing the entire grill. Don’t forget to check the central air as well; before you know it the hot summer will be upon you and no one likes to be too hot or cold when they sleep.

Enjoy the spring and the motivation it brings as you take on your homes maintenance and work to keep up on all the little repairs before they take a turn for the worse.  For instance a roof repair is ten times cheaper than the installation of a new roof.  A mower belt is far less expensive than a new mower.  Spring maintenance saves homeowners a lot of money in the long run.

Home Pro Roofing MI

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