Livingston Reporting - page 333

Hiring Professional Carpet Cleaners

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Hiring a professional carpet cleaner is a monumental task.  At some point this is a job homeowners with carpet flooring will have to tackle.  At what point does this become important?  If a homeowner finds themselves fighting daily with dingy carpet it is time to call in the professionals. A deep cleaning is recommended every twelve to eighteen months.  Many homeowners try to tackle it themselves with very little success.  Carpet cleaning is an issue that should be dealt with by a professional to ensure a quality job is done each and every time.

How does a homeowner go about finding a professional carpet cleaner in their area that is highly qualified and budget reasonable?  There are a few tips to live by when letting any “professional” into your home. As with anyone care should be taken to make sure a licensed, trained, qualified technician cleans the carpet.  The first thing to watch for is a technician who calls the house without any advanced contact from you.  Any company that contacts you and adversities a one price fits all service.  Professional, trained, licensed and insured carpet cleaners will charge based on total area clean and the method used.

Also just because a professional carpet cleaner comes out and claims to use name brand products remember the credibility does not stand from the product used but by the services rendered.  More importantly than the name brand products and chemicals used is the certifications help by the professional carpet cleaner.

When interviewing potential professional carpet cleaners it is best to invite them out.  Most cleaners offer a free quote.  During this time is the perfect time to pick him for information.  One thing to ask would be how long that the business has been in service.  This will give an idea if a reputation, good or bad, has been built within the community.  This is easily scoped out by calling references and talking with the chamber of commerce in your area.

Another thing that you will want to find out is if the technician that is at the house to do the quote will also be the one servicing the carpet.  Find out what type of training the technicians are sent through.  It is important to ask if they will vacuum the carpet.  All professional carpet cleaning service companies that provide reputable service will provide a thorough vacuuming job on the carpet before cleaning is started.

The lowest quote is not always the best quote.  It is important that research is done, qualifications are looked at and the credentials examined before service is performed.   It is important that homeowners make sure to show the professional carpet cleaner areas, spots and pet stains that need extra attention.  It is important that homeowners wait for the carpet to dry completely before walking on it or putting furniture back on to avoid staining.

Saniglow

Basics On Computer Repairs

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Computer repair is tricky.  Sometimes hardware failure within a computer can happen and the computer can still run.  When this happens it is still very important to fix the issue promptly.  If hardware repairs go undone the unfixed issue is most likely going to cause further issues down the road.   There are many hardware issues that a computer can have diagnosis them is something that will take a bit of detective work.

What happens if all of a sudden the mouse and/or keyboard to your computer stop working?  The first thing that should be tried is unplugging the units and plugging them back in to the machine and then reboot the computer.  If the keyboard or mouse is wireless try to reinstall fresh batteries and make sure to reconnect to the central unit via pressing the reset button on the mouse and keyboard.

The same thing can happen with your monitor.  If the screen is blank and nothing is coming up check to make sure the connections are plugged in.  It is more common to have a connection wiggle loose than one would think.  That is why it is very important before getting upset and running to the computer repair shop that all the connections are looked at.  However, on your screen if it is just blank in spots what is happening is that the pixels are dying.  In this case you can either repair the monitor or replace it.

What happens if the computer has decided it needs a day off and does not turn on all together?  This is tricky.  First look to make sure that the modem is on and what colors that the modem is flashing.  For instance an orangey-reddish light is blinking this means that there is a battery issue.  With a blinking light that is greenish-yellow the computer is on standby and is waiting for direction.  However if the light is solid not blinking and the orangey-reddish color the data on the computer is not being processed and there could be an issue with the central processing unit or the mother board could be having issues.  In this case the wisest thing to do is unplug the tower and take it in to a computer repair shop.

If you notice a loud noise coming from the fan it could be that is has a build-up of dust or that it is not properly functioning.  This is actually an incredibly important part of the computer as it cools off the inside workings.  If the computer is allowed to overheat it can possibly ruin other parts of the computer.  The best option is to take the computer in to a local computer repair shop and ask for the computer to be tuned up.  This process allows the technician to go through and thoroughly clean out the inside of the computer case.  A tune up usually offers an update to the computers security and goes through and cleans up unused programs that have found their way on to the desktop of the computer.   As with a car a tune up is one of the best things to be done to your computer to keep it running well and error free.

Creative Programs and Systems

Lessing The Home Maintenance Load

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Who can help with the overwhelming amount of home repairs that need to be done around the house?  Sure isn’t a spouse who is working full time, coaching kid’s activities, involved in the PTO or one that would like to put a hot meal on the table at night.  Homes need a great deal of maintaining and often times there is  a shortage when it comes to the time involved in doing the little things that need to be done.  This is when the help of a handyman service company comes in handy.

Believe it or not there are many other benefits to hiring a handyman other than extra time spent with the family.  That may be the most important but certainly not the only.  It is important when looking for handyman services in the local area that you call upon friends and family members for a referral.   It will bring more comfort trusting your home maintenance to a handyman that comes from within a trusted circle.

Professional handymen are experienced in many different fields of home improvement. The first major benefit of a handyman is that no matter the size of the list they are prepared for it.  They are also prepared for the many different hats they will wear when working throughout the home.  If there is something that they don’t feel is within their realm they will know a professional specialist such as a plumber or electrician to recommend for the job.

The biggest benefit to hiring handyman services is that no job is too big or too small for them to handle.  Most of the time if a professional contractor is called upon they will not take the job unless it is bigger and worth more of a financial gain to them.  Where as a professional handyman will come out to install the privacy fence or caulk the tub.  The size of the job does not matter to them as they are able to charge per job or by the hour depending on the handyman hired.

When you do hire a handyman to come out it will be amazing how much money that is saved in comparison to hiring a larger contractor.  The savings from the multiple trips to the store if the homeowner chooses to attempt the repair on their own will be seen in just one visit from a handyman.

Whether a spouse is in the service, gone on business, working a lot or would like to spend time at home doing quality activities with the kids hiring someone to deal with routine maintenance of the home is well worth the expense.  It may cost a bit but soon the savings will be realized by the small jobs not turning into major situations.  It is funny that way.  When you fix a leak in the showerhead when it first begins rather than letting it fester money is saved.  That small leak can turn into mold growth behind the tiles and then a homeowner is looking at a bathroom remodel.  Putting out a small amount of money on handyman services will save the household money in the long run.

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

Persistence Pays In Social Security Disability

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Everyone thinks their future is secure because they have a good chunk of change in the bank and the pension they have been promised is wonderful.  However, one event can totally change the course of the future.  What happens if all of a sudden one day you can no longer work?  What do you do is one day a sudden impairment causes you to no longer do what you want to and your whole day is ran by managing the pain you are living with.  Things happen that enable us from continue on working.  Then what?  The answer is social security disability benefits.

The social security disability program offers the permanently disabled to receive cash  payments from a social security fund in which every working person adds to with prior income deductions.  It also gives them the ability to get benefits for medical care and even supplemental security income.

In order to apply for social security disability a process is followed to make sure the candidates qualify for the aid.  First, you will meet with a representative that will talk with you to determine your disability.  With this they will look into your medical history including doctors, surgeries, treatments and medicine that you have taken. You will also need to provide previous employment history for at least the last fifteen years.

Along with this proof of citizenship is required as well as documentation of personal information and benefit programs you are involved in.  You are also required to be insured in the work program as it will be considered in computing your monthly payment.

Getting started is simple.  That’s the only part that is.  Within the application process you will obtain a kit containing everything you need to start processing your social security disability claim.   This kit contains three important items a factsheet, a checklist and a worksheet.  Each sheet serves a different purpose.  The fact sheet is basically the frequently asked questions of the program.  The checklist allows you to prepare for the interview with a list of exactly what is needed for a complete interview. The worksheet shows examples of questions that will be asked so that you are prepared in your interview with appropriate answers.

Be prepared to be denied.  A larger percentage of initial claims are denied.  It is important to be prepared and look into hiring a lawyer for an appeal.  A lawyer will know exactly what proof, information and requirements that social security requires one to show to prove they are disabled.  They also represent you in court.

The next step is scheduling the to meet with the disability representative.  They go through your case as mentioned above. And then pass the case onto a caseworker from the administration.  Usually within three months they will admit receipt and in six months you should have a response to your case.

If the case is denied there are several places to turn so don’t give up.  An attorney will help go through all of this with you also.  The first thing is to ask for reconsideration using another decision maker within the social security administration.  Most often the claim will still be denied but it is worth a shot.  Next request an administrative hearing. The proceedings are done inform of an administrative law judge.  More than half of recorded appeals that take this next step are decided in favor of the beneficiaries.   The U.S. Federal District Court also has a high approval rate.

It is possible to get social security disability.  It may take some time and effort but persistence will pay off.  If you are unable to work all you have is time to maneuver through the system.  Previous track records show that persistence pays off.

Wutz Seifert

Restoring The Dream After Fire Damage

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Exactly what a homeowner feels upon seeing their home go up in smoke and water being sprayed upon all of their household belongings is something only someone that has been through it can describe.  Seeing smoke billowing out, flames shooting through the roof and firefighters scampering throughout the home are disturbing to say the least.  Once the flurry is subdued a homeowner will need to start working with an insurance professional and a professional emergency restoration service company to get life started in the right direction once again.

It is important for homeowners to know what they are getting into when looking forward to the proper fire and water damage restoration.  The steps are; a site review, an assessed financial figure, repair, an insurance plan and a final inspection for quality.

It is important to get off on the right foot when it comes to restoration services.  A site review will make sure that this happens for homeowners.  A professional will come out and look at the damage.  This may be done in conjunction with an insurance reviewer.  The restoration professional will come out and examine for complete devastation, partial devastation for items that can be repaired and things that are normal and without damage.  Depending on the fire and water damage nothing may be left in the last category.

For this first step and each step here after homeowners need to make sure that the restoration company that they are dealing with is reputable and have proven themselves with restoration services in the past.  It is important that as a professional service they know what they are doing and don’t hesitate when it comes to getting their clients affordable prices along with a quick turnaround for work to be completed.

A financial figure is often something that needs to be reviewed bit by bit.  Not only does a review need to be complete to ensure everything has been included but it should also stand its own when compared amongst other companies quotes.  When comparing quotes homeowners must see what is being paid for and determine between the companies that they have sought out quotes from which offers the greatest amount of services at the most reasonable price in the quickest time frame.  When all of those elements mesh than a homeowner can feel at ease with the company chosen to provide fire restoration to the home.

The next step is the actual work phase of the equation.  Your fire restoration project will begin and given the size of the home and damage needing to be fixed a project manager will guide the project from start to finish.  This person will be the one in charge of seeing that work is completed in a timely fashion and up to the standards set forth in the quote/contract between the homeowner, insurance company and restoration service firm.  Fire restoration is a complicated procedure that must be completed correctly to avoid future damage to the home.

The next step will be for the claims to be submitted to the insurance company for payment.  Many restoration companies will help a homeowner through this process.  They have been through it many more times than the average homeowners therefore know loop holes and procedures before submitting claims.

When the restoration firm has completed work on the home a group of quality inspectors will come out and examine the property.  They will put the home through test for air quality, moisture, etc… and if something is not right will ensure that the problem is dealt with before the final stamp of approval is given on the project.  This ensures that many checks and balances have been done and that the fire restoration to the property is done in the correct manner.

Go Maher

Health Issues Associated With Dirty Carpet

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Carpet cleaning has a reputation of being a luxury more than a necessity.  Without proper care your carpet becomes a health liability.  This is something most people don’t stop to consider before deleting the message to call and schedule their yearly professional carpet cleaner’s visit.   When the call comes in to schedule your children’s well visit to the pediatrician you immediately schedule.  The same will be true about a professional carpet cleaning when you educate yourself on the health risks involved with unclean carpet.

One potential health risk involved with improperly cared for carpet is asthma.  Asthma is caused by many outside influences.  One such influence is unclean, damp carpet.  This environment plays the perfect host to tiny organism and microbial growth.  In turn these minuet creatures increase the risk of asthma in patients living in such environments.    It is important that carpets are maintained and thoroughly dry throughout homes in order to decrease the risks involved with asthma.

Dust mites are another concern involved with unkempt carpet.  Dirty carpet serves as a host and breeding ground for mites which feed off of the bacteria and human skin cells that naturally live within carpet.  If you do not have a professional carpet cleaner the carcasses of dead dust mites are inhaled by homeowners.  This can be extremely hazardous for people whom are allergic to dust mites. It is not only disgusting but also a huge health risk causing eye irritation, skin rashes and nose inflammation.

Mold is also an area that can come into play with carpet that is not regularly maintained with visits for a carpet cleaner.  Asthma attacks increase ten-fold when mold is present.  Mold spores are known to breed bacteria and allergens.  These mold spores are breathed in and can cause issues within ones respiratory system.  If a family is suffering from cold like symptoms that are persistent it is likely the household should have their carpets professionally cleaned in order to remove any bacteria, mold spores and allergens that are breeding within their flooring.

Athlete’s foot does not come only from dirty gym floors anymore. The parasitic organisms found on dirty floors are constantly turned up on carpet flooring.  This in turn allows the organisms into the air and into respiratory tracks and also into even the smallest cut or knick on a person’s foot.  This can lead to athlete’s foot.

It is easy to see how carpet cleaning can seem like a luxury to many homeowners who are struggling to keep their heads a float.  However, this thinking is curtailed when concerns about your family’s health are present.  Professional carpet cleaners suggest carpets should be cleaned every six months.  That is a bit of a stretch for most homeowners who are finding it hard to keep a balance with their spending habits.  It is possible with regular vacuuming and preventative behaviors such as spot cleaning, thoroughly drying spills and using throw rugs to minimize the amount of dirt and microorganisms and bacteria brought into the home in the first place.  Vacuuming every other day with also help in alleviating stains form building up and will help keep bacteria from settling deep within the carpet.

Saniglow

Renovating With A Sale In Mind

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When beginning renovation projects people are especially interested in the net amount of the project.  With each project real estate professionals have narrowed down a formula that allows them to estimate the increase value the final renovation will bring to the house.  Not all renovations or upgrades bring the type of value homeowners expect.  Actually some may put the home at a disadvantage in the market place.  An example of this might be a pool in a state such as Michigan where it is only hot enough to use it three months of the year and the rest of the time it is wasted yard space.

When upgrading it is important to think about factors such as the length of time you will continue to live in this home.  Some larger renovations will pay off more over time while other less expensive renovations will work to get a house sold if the time frame is narrower.  Some of the best upgrades and renovations are ones that can be completed by the average homeowner and do it yourselfer.

The first which is curb appeal renovations.  This can be something minor like power washing the siding, trimming bushes and trees and adding mulch. If the house looks like it has been well cared for and the initial reaction to the home is positive buyers will have a more favorable impression overall.  The first place to do this is by adding details that will add curb appeal to the home.

Along those same lines comes renovating the siding and roof.  A home with fresh paint and awesome windows and door walls featuring blinds between the glass are not going to sell a home with a leaky roof or roughed up siding.  The renovation of siding and roofing is not inexpensive however the renovations can almost pay for themselves with the added value they bring to the home.

Extra space is always a winning idea with home buyers today.  As a society we tend to hold onto a lot of stuff.  That stuff needs to be stored somewhere.  Extra storage space is a high commodity in looking for a new home.  Whether it a closet that is enlarged or added or an attic that is turned into a convenient storage area by using a pull down stairway, storage increases a home’s desirability almost as much as an extra bedroom.

Partial renovations to a bathroom can increase the sale price of a home also.  Outdated bathrooms show a glimpse into the homes past.  What buyers are looking for is the here and now when they will be using the space.  This can be achieved with some simple tile updates, a coat of paint, some fresh caulk and a thorough cleaning.  Pay special attention when designing a new bathroom space to hide things such a toilet brushes and other must haves that are unsightly.

Kitchens are of course one of the upgrades that real estate professionals say brings in the most bang for the bucks.  However, it is also the renovations with the most headaches associated with it.  Partial upgrades in a kitchen can consist of new counter tops and fresh appliances.  These things will take the draw away from the sink that is a bit older.

An overhaul of a home you are trying to sell doesn’t make any sense.  It is important to think about the home and what people value in the area in which the home is located and start there.  As mentioned before it does not make sense to improve the windows and door walls featuring blinds between the glass if the roof is full of leaks and the furnace does not work.  Using common sense in home renovations will yield the biggest return on investment.

Heatkeeper

Following a Budget For Engineering Services

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The internet is all a buzz with different engineering firms. There is definitely not a shortage of firms to hire.  The hard part with this in mind for someone in need of engineering services is that they have to narrow the field down to one.  On top of the options the work load increases for the person hiring the firm too.  It is important to make sure that the right firm is hired on for the project so that disappointment in the end is avoided.

The first factor in determining if an engineering firm is right for your project revolves around the budget.  This factor determines a lot of business choices and in this case is true also.  The belief that a more expensive firm offers better or premium services is not true.  The only thing the price tells us is that they are a more expensive firm.  When looking into the quote that has been given it is important to look at everything that is covered under it.

Engineering services are not cheap.  Don’t expect a fifteen thousand job to be low balled down to ten thousand anytime soon.  The ideal firm for you will be willing to work what you need done into an appropriate budget.  A reasonable figure can be found and there are plenty of companies available to provide the services needed.  When comparing costs it is best to determine what the cost of each individual piece of work is and compare that instead of the overall job.  This way the cost comparison is based more honestly on exactly what services will be provided.

What happens in engineering services is that a firm will have a lower offer to get the job and will then throw in the extras that were not considered to be a part of the original proposal.   That is why it is of the utmost importance to read every document thoroughly before deciding on a company.  This will also help you see exactly what you are getting for your money.  The fine print needs to be examined and anything that is unclear needs to be reviewed with the firm.

A good engineering firm will be able to stick by their estimate.  This is a key element in hiring a firm.  Look into references and ask them about sticking to the original estimate.  If the original estimate was way below the actual costs that firm might not be a proven winner.  It is important that take into consideration the cost of raw materials, transportation, costs with operating and other details that could cause the price of the project to increase before the bid has been established and agreed upon.

The internet is a great source to find information relevant to hiring any type of firm. Use it to your advantage when looking into an engineering firm.  It will lead you to places that will help in finding the right people to work with you.  References are wonderful and will lead you deeper into the quality of the firm you are hiring for.

SRCMI

Gaining Home Security Through Access Control Systems

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As a society I think we are always concerned about the security surrounding our loved ones.  How does your home space protect the family you love and care about?  One way that is becoming ever more popular in landscaping design as well as a security feature is fencing that has access control system capabilities.  This feature allows the homeowner to regulate who is allowed to enter and exit the property using an access control system, such as a keypad or remote control.

This system of accessing space is not new.  It has been used in apartments, hospitals, office building and many more public spaces for a long time.  Just recently the expense of the technology involved has made it a more affordable option in home security as well.  This option is more feasible now for the average homeowner.  The first thing that needs to be in place is a fence around the perimeter of the yard.

Access control system fencing has changes a lot from the days of chain link.  Now day’s homeowners can erect fences in a variety of styles and designs to blend in with their homes naturally aesthetic landscape.  Homeowners can choose between fencing that offers complete privacy so no one can view the property.  The only issue this causes is that the homeowner also cannot see out.  A way around this is by using mirrors strategically placed that allow the property outside of the gate to be viewed.  Another option in fencing that offers height is palisade fence which also offers spaces to see through.

On top of the fencing that supports security around the perimeter of the property homeowner’s need to decide on a gate option.  Gate style options vary greatly as well as how they function.  Homeowners can choose between a swing gate and a sliding gate.  Both options have pros and cons.  Design wise they both are incredibly attractive options.  Sliding gates require less space to enter and exit and they do not swing out into the space that will be driven through.  This is a better option for driveways where space is minimal.

How homeowners choose to gain access through the gate in many different ways.  Some like the options of a key pad entry.  The down fall of this method is that each time you enter the space you need to roll down the window and push in the code.  The upside is that visitors to your home can gain access without having to gain your attention to buzz them in.  Each visitor can be set up with an individualized code so that the homeowner can monitor who has had access into their space.  The most preferable method is remote control.  This allows access with the touch of a button from inside a car or inside the home.

An option to add to the access controlled fence and gate system is security cameras.  This is often a strategy utilized by people with small children who play in the yard or for homeowners who travel a lot and are in need of visual piece of mind.  Security cameras can be set up to be viewed via the internet.  Technology is ever changing and is helping to ease the minds of homeowners that are interested in different types of security options available.

SAC Fence

Moisture Equals Mold In Homes

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Mold is a natural part of our environment.  That is not to say it is a pleasant one when infesting the one thing you pour your life savings into, your home.  Mold does play an integral part in nature by helping to break down dead trees and leaves however are not so helpful when abundantly growing within a home.  A common question amongst homeowners with a mold issue is, “How and why did mold start to grow in my home?”

Mold starts to grow and infest a home right under a homeowner’s nose.  It often goes undetected for a bit of time because mold reproduces by sending out microscopic spores into the air.  As they float through the air they seek out damp, moist areas and the spores land making a home.  These damps surfaces within your home are ideal breeding grounds for the reproduction of more mold spores.  This is of course a very general look at how mold grows and spreads.

It is obvious that mold spores don’t become an issue or problem inside homes until they are given a host spot to breed off of.  The main goal for homeowner’s is to prevent this from happening.  Simple solutions to moisture build up are exhaust fans in laundry and bath areas.  Homeowners should make sure that duct work is ventilated properly so that moisture is not allowed to build up in attics and basements.  Dehumidifiers on air conditioning units are helpful as is looking under sinks and cupboards regularly to inspect for leaks.

Mold is a serious issue not only because it is unsightly but also a hazard to one’s health. Inhaling or mold may cause an allergic reaction to those sensitive to mold.  Asthma can be made worse do to the effects of mold on the respiratory system.  Reactions to mold include; a runny nose, sneezing, eyes that are swollen and red and rashes that affect the skin.  If a homeowner notices that family members are become sick more often than usual they should inspect the home for mold spores.

Mold remediation, or removing mold, is tricky.  Yes, homeowner’s will want to remove the mold but it is impossible to completely remove the mold spores from the air.  The idea is get rid of the present and unsightly mold spot and then remove the source of moisture so that the comfy home the mold has been enjoying is destroyed.  Mold remediation is more about controlling the habitat to prevent future mold growth.

By controlling moisture and fixing issues that allow water and dampness to stick around you are in essences killing the mold.  In mold remediation if a homeowner cleans up the mold issue but then does not fix the moisture problem than the mold is likely to return.  The truth is that the only way that mold spores will not reproduce is to take away their home and food source.  If a homeowner is finding that mold keeps returning even after they feel the problem has been fixed it is best to call in the professionals.  The problem or source could be deeper.  Mold issues that are allowed to fester will eventually destroy a home and its value.

Go Maher