Livingston Reporting - page 305

Adding An Electronic Enterance Gate For Security and Privacy

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When considering a gate and electronic entry system consider a reasonable budget. Beautiful pieces can be purchased throughout all price ranges. When purchasing a gate consider maintenance and service expenses needed to maintain the electronic gate. Wooden gates are less expensive to purchase then aluminum entry gates however every year you as the homeowner will be responsible to seal and weather proof the wood fence and gate. Consider that electronic gates need to be installed by professional fence and gate installers as well when considering a budget that is reasonable for this home improvement project.

Another way to save when it comes to the budget of a gate for your driveway is to consider a manual entry gate. This might not be desired but can help many homeowners have the security that an entrance gate delivers without the expense of an electronic gate. The draw backs here are pretty evident in that in bad weather you will have to exit the car to close the entry gate. Manual gates are often considered more of a hassle than their electronic counter parts.

When you are purchasing an electronic gate and fence system you have two different choices to decide from when it comes to the way the gate opens. The two options available are swing or sliding driveway entry gates. Consider your landscaping and driveway layout when choosing between the two. Consider if the ground is level or how expensive it would be to level the ground where the gate will be used. Also consider any trees or hard to relocate landscaping that the fence will be surrounding.

When choosing an entry gate consider the fencing that you either have installed or will be installing. Make sure the styles work well with one another. Super tall enclosed privacy fencing might look off when paired with a super decorative open style aluminum gate. The fence and gate should be similar if not the same height. This will provide continuity. If you are only installing a gate without any fencing the sky is the limits however consider the style of your home. A super modern home with a country classic gate might look a whole lot out of place.

Fencing and gates come in a variety of materials as well. You can choose from wood, wrought iron, aluminum, vinyl and chain link. For durability and ease of long term maintenance as well as reasonable initial costs most professional fence and gate installers will recommend purchasing aluminum. Aluminum fencing can be as ornamental and decorative or as simple and classic as a homeowner desires. There are also a variety of color options to choose from when considering aluminum. Aluminum is really a terrific material to use in your homes landscaping.

 

Forever-Fence, SAC Fence

Ensure Your Are Hiring A Quality Roofing Contractor With The Tips Below

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When hiring any type of contractor to work on your home we are all looking to get the biggest bang for our “buck”.  This is especially true when it comes to larger projects such as kitchen or bathroom remodeling, roof replacement, basement transformation as well as landscaping.  The more money we are about to put the better the deal we are looking to get.  On top of this we are looking to hire a professional who is in it to give us a great deal while completing the job in a timely fashion and correct the first time.  How can a homeowner ensure they are hiring the best roofing contractor for their roof replacement or roofing repair?

One thing to look for when hiring a roofing contractor is their licensing.  The required licenses that are needed for a roofing contractor in each area of the state and country are going to be different.  To determine what is needed when doing work in your area, on your home, it is best to call the local building department.

Insurance is another area of concern when it comes to hiring a contractor that will be working on your home.  Without proper insurance, if someone gets hurt or materials are broken, you as the homeowner will be responsible if the contractor does not have proper business insurance.  Always get a copy of the insurance policy before any contracts are signed or work is done on the home.

Some local municipalities will require that you have permits pulled for work within or around your home.  If they are required you or the contractor will need to pull permits before the job is begun.  This is information that can be acquired at your local building department.

Roofing contractors vary on the warranties on their products and services along with warranty offers from the manufactures. All guarantees and warranties should be in writing when the contractor gives you the original estimate.

Finding a reputable, reliable roofing contractor can be difficult.  One of the best ways to tell if you are hiring someone trustworthy and dependable is to talk to previous clients.  This will be a good way of determining how the contractor you are hiring does business and the results of their work.

When receiving an estimate for job needed on your roof the best way to ensure you are getting what you are paying for is to ask for a breakdown list of materials and labor costs.  Take all of the bids that you have received and compare them side by side to see if the quotes you are getting are all on the same playing field.  If there are drastic differences find out the reasons. Maybe one contractor offers extended warranties on labor or materials.  This may be worth a few extra dollars for you.

If everything is even with the contractors that you are looking into consider the outside factors.  Pay attention to the details like how the contractor presents him or herself.  How the bids are presented and how prompt they were in their communication with you.  This is helpful in determining how communication will be in future dealings as well.

Home Pro Roofing MI

The Benefits Of Asphalt Shingling When It Comes To Installation and Repair

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For roofing contractors the most common roofing shingle type to install is asphalt shingling. The material is the durable, relatively low priced and easier than other common roofing materials to install. With any roofing material there will be options in design, composition and warranties. Asphalt shingling is no different.

The basic benefits of asphalt shingling straight from a Roofing Contractor:

1) Shingle roofs are easy to maintain and simple to repair.

2) Asphalt shingling is the least expensive material when in comparison to other roofing materials such as slate, wood, metal and tile. Not every roofing material is practical for all climates either.

3) Shingles are offered in a diverse number of styles and colors. It is easy to find a shingle that will go well with every type of exterior housing style.

4) Composite asphalt shingles are environmentally friendly and easy to recycle.

5) When it comes to fire rating most shingle roofing comes with a Class A fire-resistance rating.

Shingle compositions are basically a rectangular material, known as a mat. The rectangular mat is then coated with several layers of asphalt and ceramic granules are embedded. Shingle mats are mainly made out of fiberglass which resists breaking and tearing. The ceramic granules are also an important component. The granules are embedded within the shingle during the last coat of asphalt. This is what gives the shingle the grainy appearance associated with asphalt shingles. The granules come in a variety of colors and help protect the shingle from the harsh UV rays of the sun.

The most common type of shingle due to affordability is the three-tab shingle. This style is a strip shingle divided into three distinct sections. This is what is on most homes currently. Steadily the use of laminated shingles is growing as the price to install has come down significantly over the course of time.

Laminated shingles are found when on homes when you are able to see dimension in the roofing. The dimension or architecture are made the same way as three tab shingles however they add that 3-d effect, a sort of layered look in shingling. Laminated shingles are incredibly durable. Basically a laminated shingle is multiple shingles within one another. They are incredibly hardy when it comes to four seasons of weather and easily with stand the sun, cold and wind that comes with our ever changing seasons.

When it comes to the longevity of your shingle roofs your installer will detail how each shingle company sells shingles warranted for a defined amount of time. Brand by brand the shingle warranties are different anywhere from ten to thirty years. Most asphalt shingles last longer in locations where the weather is not drastically different from one day to the next. The potential for cracks and water leaks is more prevalent in areas of diverse weather patterns. This is something to consider when looking at purchasing shingles and the shingles warranty.

Roof replacement is an expensive endeavor for most homeowners to embark on. Make sure you do research not only when it comes to the material that you use on your home but also on the roofing contractor. Make sure you hire a contractor that is licensed and comes with references. Previous work done is the best way to judge the quality of one’s work.

Home Pro Roofing MI

Introductory Information For New Pool Owners

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With the amount of foreclosures and short sales the economy is seeing many homeowners are getting homes affordably however they come with “issues”. Of course the issue we see most is a neglected pool. Homeowners having trouble making a mortgage payment are not worried about the state of their pool. So it is only reasonable that when the home is sold at a discount that the condition of the pool is a mute point.

Many new pool owners don’t even know the basics of pool construction let alone how to balance the ph of the water. In this article we will address questions and concerns that arise focusing on the materials that make up the pool.

Many terms are thrown around in pool lingo such as plaster, gunite and marcite; what are they?

Gunite is the pools shell. Often referred to as the sprayed in concrete base, gunite is made up of rebar and concrete. Marcite was originally a brand name of plaster but has become known as plaster to many pool contractors. The phrase is universally used; marcite equals plaster for most professional pool installers. Plaster or marcite is the coating over the gunite pool shell. It is made up of white crushed marble dust. The white plaster finish is usually applied in two coats and is between 3/8″ and 1/2″ thick. To be clear the pool shell or base is made up of rebar, concrete (gunite) and plaster (marcite).

What is the purpose of the plaster?

Concrete is rough. Pools would not be enjoyable or as easy to maintain. Plaster is needed to allow for the pools surface to be smooth to the touch. Brand new plaster is the smoothest pool surface. At this point the marcite (plaster) has no imperfections. Imperfections come from age and can range from calcium building up and general erosion on the pool surface, wear and tear for a pool.

After having our pool plastered how long will the plaster last? How long until we have to do this process again?

Before a homeowner notices any imperfections and erosion is the answer I like to give in this situation. The white marble plaster should maintain the original smooth texture and bright white color for five to seven years before any wear is noticeable. This takes into consideration properly maintained water chemistry.

Are there different types of plaster and pool coatings available for in ground pools?

Yes! White marble plaster is the least expensive coating over gunite and the most commonly used. This is why when speaking to homeowners the quoted price will be for this marcite plaster unless otherwise specified.

Diamond Brite: Exposed Aggregate Pool Finishes is just one of many plaster finishes that brings color and slight texture to the pool. This is the most common aggregate coating and should be expected to last two to three times longer than white marble plaster because it is more durable. However, note the durability is something you will pay for as it is about fifty percent more expensive. This expense should be considered when homeowners see themselves in this house years down the road.

There are drawbacks to Diamond Brite over plain white plaster finishes. In order for the Diamond Brite to be applied correctly it must be adhere directly to the gunite. You can can expect over time that the bond fail as the bond between Diamond Brite and plaster is not as strong as Diamond Brite and gunite if it is not properly installed. Also, if you are lax about proper pool chemical balance the adhesives found in Diamond Brite will fail faster than that of normal white marble plaster.

The key to pool ownership is proper chemical balance and maintenance. Don’t allow algae to grow and ruin the pools surface. Scrubbing off algae is not great for your pools plaster. When you start to see staining on your pools surface note that it is time to start looking into having your pool plastered sooner than later to avoid more damage to the plaster than is already present.

Pound Pool Plastering

Lessons In Professional Tree Removal

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Many reasons play into why trees that surround your home and make up your landscape can need to be cut down. It may be necessary for the safety of the home and the proximity of the tree and its root system. Another reason is that the tree is dead or has become infested and without taking the tree down the rest of the trees in the yard could be affected. Aesthetic value could be another reason. Whatever the reason your landscape needs to be groomed it is important as a homeowner that you interview and hire tree removal contractors to make sure they are insured, trained and have a spotless record from their references.

When the day comes and the trees are marked the professionals will come out to trim and cut the trees down that have been agreed upon for removal. Professional tree removal companies follow certain specific steps as they remove your trees as the tree removal process is one in which dangers are real. If done incorrectly life and limb are literally at stake.

Professionals will a list of equipment similar to the one below:

More than one individual is necessary for all tree removal jobs

Ladders of all types including bucket ladders when necessary

Ropes

Wedges

Chainsaws with several bar lengths and power levels/gas

Falling Axes

Safety Gear (and it will be on) including; a quality hard hat, eye and ear protection, steel toe boots, work gloves and often leg coverings

First Aid Kit to treat injuries on site until emergency crews, if needed, can respond

The trees that are to be removed will be accessed. The crew will be looking out for dead branches on the tree and surrounding trees as well as cracks and loose bark on the tree. They will often times “hug” the tree to see what direction the tree is naturally leaning. Observations will be made regarding how the branches are spread about; the actual height of the tree, the drop zone as well as what other branches or trees could be in the way. The base will be examined for root instability. The team will consider weather conditions and wind direction as well BEFORE any branches or trees are cut.

One thing professionals due that we don’t often think about as homeowners is the escape route just in case the tree removal does not go exactly as anticipated. Many professionals look for trees close by that can be used as cover and an exit forty five degrees from the side and back of the trees.

The actual cutting process is one of the quickest parts of the process. You will note that professionals start with a first cut that is made into the tree at a horizontal angle. The first cut will be no more than 1/3 of the width of the tree. The tree will fall perpendicular to this first cut. From here tree removal professionals will make two wedge cuts. One on top of the first cut at a sixty degree angle and one below the first cut at a thirty degree angles. After this is done a cut will be made across from the first cut and a wedge put into place acting as a hinge for the falling tree. This is the cut that brings the tree down slowly as the wedge goes deeper into the tree.

Once the tree is on the ground safely is when limbs can be trimmed and chipped and the tree cut and stacked. Depending on the client’s needs tree removal companies offer to take the remnants away with them or leave them for use by the client. Branches and smaller limbs can be ground into wood chips and again left to be used by the client or taken away and disposed of. The safest way to have a tree removed from your yard is by a professional. Trees are unpredictable and an event that is meant to be harmless could turn out to be devastating.

MC Tree Service

Adjusting The Home For Loved Ones With Mobility Challenges

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There are guidelines in place to assist elderly and physically challenged people when it comes to accessing public spaces and the space within their living environment. Guidelines set for by the ADA, otherwise known as The American with Disabilities Act. It is important that caregivers of individuals falling into this category are knowledgeable about current requirements. Contractor’s making handicap construction type upgrades should be certified by the ADA. There are major differences involved in making a home safe, room by room, for those with special needs.

One room in particular that needs special attention is the bathroom. Grab bars need to be installed and professionally anchored into the wall. It is important to note that standard wall anchors might not be enough to hold the weight of an individual day after day. It is important to look to use products that are specifically designed for ADA purposes. Look for fasteners that state “For use in universal design construction”. These products are rated to hold upwards of 600 pound or more. If someone is using the grab bar as they are about to fall the pull, push force will indeed be more than the 200 pound rating of standard anchors.

Floor space is an issue throughout the home. The clear space needed to accommodate a wheelchair user is at least 30″ x 48″. When designing the furniture within a room it is best to keep in mind that wheelchairs need to be able to approach the space forward or parallel for ease of transfer. Also keep in mind the material used for flooring. Carpets with frieze or shag are not good choices for those with mobility issues as well as the use of floor rugs. The carpet or flooring should be smooth and obstacle free. Baskets are used a lot to keep clutter under control but those also can be nuisances when navigating using a walker, wheelchair, cane or crutches.

Kitchens spaces are unavoidable and must be designed around those living in the space that are limited in movement, mobility and other ADA needs. An open kitchen design is obviously the best option for any home that will be used during the aging in place process or for physically challenged individuals. With the new technology that is available this is easier to achieve than ever before. Start by adding extra lighting throughout the kitchen, including under cupboard lighting. This will help illuminate the counter work space when preparing meals.

It is important that everything be within reach as well. This will mean installing fixtures that are easy to manipulate. Avoid knobs that are small or need to be turned. Lazy-Susan shelving and cupboards with multiple sliding shelves are the best option for people with disability. This allows things to be within reach without having to stand on a step stool or stretch to reach. Faucets should be those that do not require turning, single handle faucets are super easy to manipulate for hands that are aching from arthritis or that are losing their mobility.

The biggest thing to remember when upgrading your home to age in place or to accommodate a loved one with limited abilities is to hire someone who is familiar with handicap construction and age in place home modifications. Not all general contractors have experience in the world of universal design and all of the items that need special attention. One thing to learn is that not ever wall anchor is suited for use in ADA renovations. Even if the rating seems high enough for the amount of pressure anticipated to be put on the object consider the force that occurs when falling or bracing one’s self. This is the weight you are anchoring!

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

Aluminum Pool Fencing Bring Backyard Safety To In Ground Pools

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Adding an in ground pool for most families is an exciting adventure however with this addition brings on the fact that you are now in the market for an aluminum pool fence as well. Aluminum fencing is lightweight and practically maintenance free. This is important as the pool that is being installed is anything but maintenance free. Aluminum pool fence is highly resistant to corrosion as well as bringing attractive warranties and benefits beyond the ease of maintenance. Aluminum pool fencing comes in many styles, colors, designs and sizes.

Most aluminum pool fencing companies offer lifetime warranties. They can offer warranties of this magnitude because aluminum pool fences are known for their durability and crack, chip and peel resistant finishes. The aluminum fence is made out of metal that has the color baked into the enamel or is powder coated.

Purchasing aluminum fencing online has never been easier than it is now days. Many companies will have information on local installation companies that will install your fence as well or even offer installation services. Make sure that they are used to installing aluminum fencing and ask questions such as if they will be using concrete footings to set the fence posts. They should be installing the fence per the manufacturer’s recommendations. That is always a good way to weed potential installation companies out if you are on your own to find someone to install the aluminum pool fence.

Purchasing aluminum pool fencing online allows you as the consumer to get the closest price to what you would pay ordering directly from the fencing manufacturer. Most aluminum pool fence manufactures do not allow for direct residential purchase. The last thing you want to do is over pay for the pool fence so be sure when ordering that your quotes all include all of the necessary pieces needed for a complete fence. Some online suppliers that have super low quotes are not including the recommended line, end or corner posts. Be sure the quote is all inclusive and the price you are getting includes all of the materials you as a homeowner would need to install the fence on your own if so desired.

Pool safety regulations vary from state to state but one recommendation to keep your pool a safe and fun place to gather is to install a gate with an automatic locking system. This will allow the pool area to be entered only if an adult is there that knows how to access the gates lock. Often time’s homeowners will use an electronic entry access system if installing a new fence. This is an extra safety precaution for inground pools. An automatic locking system alleviates issues involved in walking away and forgetting to put the lock into place. Many accidental drowning occur because of children entering the pool area without an adult. Think about the times when someone runs into grab a drink and leaves the kids in the backyard to play. Those are times when normal locks get forgotten. When the safety of children is in question it is far better to be safe than sorry.

Forever-Fence, SAC Fence

The Intrigue of Black Diamonds

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When people think of diamonds they usually visualize a crystal clear, sparkling diamond. Many people have in their minds that diamonds are supposed to be solitaires and never think about other cuts of diamonds let alone consider the different colors available for them. Black diamonds are a beautiful option for nontraditional engagement rings or jewelry in general.

Black diamonds are enhanced diamonds that have been treated with radiation to make their color come out black in appearance. When viewed under normal lights the diamonds appear black however when observed under fiber-optic light the interior of the stone is visible where you will actually see the stone is a very dark green. That dark green color is only seen in diamonds where radiation has been used to enhance the coloring.

Natural black diamond, which are less common are not treated and the black coloring comes from graphite inclusions. Usually natural black diamonds are opaque in color and remain very fragile and difficult for jewelers to work with. They are super delicate and polishing and finishing the diamond can be tricky.

When looking for black diamond pieces to add to your collection you should consider enhanced black diamond’s over “natural” black diamonds. The piece will stand up to the test of time and is still considered a genuine diamond to the world of jewelers. Black diamond’s that are set with contrasting clear “white” diamonds are absolutely stunning and classic. Black diamonds are becoming super popular. It is a gemstone that is rich in color and presence.

Black diamonds in custom pieces is becoming more common as well. Pearls and diamonds will always remain classic choices and will preserve through the ages. Black diamond’s added to classic pieces update jewelry from collections that have been passed through the ages. The combinations of white or black pearls with black diamonds are some of my favorite combinations. Pair this with white gold and I find it hard to go wrong. Jewelry pieces of this combination are absolutely stunning.

When selecting a piece of jewelry for you or for someone else as a gift the main thing to think about is the person themselves. Some people never wear dark pieces and are only attracted to colorful gemstones. For them black diamond’s might not appeal or need to be consider for an occasion piece. This way the receiver of the present will not feel the pressure that can come with pieces of jewelry. The last thing you want as the giver of a gift is for the person to dread wearing or using your gift. An occasion piece will prevent this from happening. Consider a cross in black diamond’s or a brooch if for the most part the receivers preference would not usually include something as dark as a black diamond.

DaRoche Jewelers

An Explanation Into Backyard Fencing

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The backyard of the home is often the refuge to many of us. It is the place we entertain our children, a place our pets roam and most importantly a place of privacy where we retreat after a long week at work. We live in a world surrounded by subdivisions and homes built so close together that you can hear your neighbor blow their nose. This is why a fence for the backyard is so significant to home ownership today. Choosing a fence is not an easy task with the multitude of options available. The options are endless, from designing a fence of your own out of wood, prefabricated fencing panels and decorative aluminum fence.

Chain Link Fence

There isn’t a yard out there with a home built in the seventies and eighties that has not seen a chain link fence. It was the most affordable option which also made it the most popular. Now it seems that chain link fence has become used in more industrial settings than backyards. It is incredibly durable, easy to install and comes in a variety of heights. The drawbacks of chain link fencing actually only come from the ascetic make up of the fence. It only comes in gray unless you get the vinyl coated chain link fence which comes in black, green and white. A chain link fence will last you for many years and is easily maintainable.

Wooden Fence

Wooden fences are beautiful. They add a charm to any home. Wooden fence can be purchased in sections either as picket fencing, which is a short type of fence, or privacy fencing, which is usually a fence that is over five feet in height. Wooden picket fences are not great for keeping animals or children in the backyard. This type of fence is used more for decoration than for purpose. However, wooden fence sections can be purchased called privacy fence which stand taller to keep the backyard private as the name suggests. Drawbacks of wooden fencing materials come from the maintenance and longevity of the wood material. Naturally you will need to treat and maintain a wooden fence to protect it from the elements. The sun, rain and snow all cause threats to wooden fencing material not to mention insects.

Decorative Aluminum Fence

Decorative aluminum fencing is perfect for any backyard or driveway area. Aluminum fencing and gates can be installed for use with electronic gate openers. This is not only super convenient in keeping your home protected but also alleviates having to exit the car to open or close the gate. With access controlled gates you will find two options, both styles playing off the beauty of the aluminum fence, a slide gate opener or a swing gate opener. Aluminum fence is the option most chosen by homeowners for safety with in-ground pools. It is extremely stylish, keeps critters and children safe while adult supervision is not around and is virtually maintenance free. Aluminum pool fence tends to be a bit more expensive than other types of fencing materials but homeowners must look at the time and money spent on replacement fencing, maintenance and the decorative nature in itself when deciding on fencing.

There are several other type of fencing material out there such as vinyl fencing as well as split rail and fencing that is owner designed. Obviously the decision about fencing will come down to the look you are attracted to, the budget you want to stick with and the maintenance work you want to put into it for years to come. I love decorative aluminum fencing however my yard is surrounded by split rail fence as this material best went with the look of the river we have in our backyard.

SAC Fence

Help Assure Your Home Is Secure With A Home Alarm System

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Statistics clearly show that most home burglaries come from amateur thieves. Home security systems will detour these amateurs as well as making your home a more difficult target for professional thieves. Simple changes to your home help to protect your family paired with a professional installed home alarm your home will become less of a target.

Tips For Your Homes Security

The first tip I have for all home owners is to hire a professional alarm company to come in and help you develop a master plan for security for your family. Some homes and areas will require more detailed programming and home monitoring systems while some will get by just fine with an access entry controlled home alarm system and basic home safety upgrades.

When deciding what your home needs for protection it is a good idea to do a bit of role playing. Try to break into your own home. This will help you discover any areas of weakness in your current security plan. If you can find a way into your home when you lock yourself out of the house it is safe to say that your home will be an easy target for most burglars.

This seems like a super simple, no brainer tip however one that many homeowners don’t follow. Lock up your home even if you will only be gone for a short period of time. Thieves look for homes with ease of access. If a burglar can walk in and out without any deterrents your home will be a target for thieves.

When you move into a new home make sure you change all the entry and exit door handles and locks. It is impossible to predict if all of the homes keys have been retrieved from the previous owner so it is best to start fresh.

A professional installation company will install the homes alarm system concealing wires and monitoring systems. This is super important as professional thieves know what to look for and snip in improperly installed security systems.

Make sure your home always looks like people are home and that it is occupied. When you are on vacation use timers to turn on lights and radios to make it look as though the home is filled with life.

If your alarm has been having frequent false alarms get it fixed immediately a notify neighbors so that they don’t become desensitized to your system. If your alarm goes off periodically neighbors will tend to ignore it. This is not effective when it come to home security.

The use of a deadbolt on your outside entry doors will also deter many burglars as they are difficult to unlatch easily.

It is so important to feel safe and protected while inside your home. A simple home security system can give most homeowners that feeling. The nice thing about alarm systems is that they can be as simple or as complex as homeowners wish. Whether you are looking at alarming only the doors or a more complex system monitoring windows, doors, door walls, fire and sound waves hiring a professional alarm company to install your home security system will give you piece of mind whether you are home or away.

All Star Alarm