How To Ready Your Office For A Professional Carpet Cleaner

Having your carpet, upholstery and/or hard surface cleaned by a professional carpet cleaning company? Here are some suggestions for you to prepare that will help both of you and them:

1. Please remove any small items such as dining room chairs, magazine racks, floor plants, etc. from any areas that are going to be cleaned.
2. Please remove all breakable items from furniture which will have to be temporarily moved, cleaned under, and placed back.
3. Please pin up any full-length draperies so that they will be at least 6 inches off the floor.
4. Please pin up any skirts on upholstered furniture, which may be touching the carpet.
5. Computer equipment, china cabinets, sectional sofas, entertainment centers, antique and fragile furniture cannot be moved. However, carpet underneath such items can be cleaned where sufficient room is available, or we can edge right around the base.
6. During the pre-inspection walk-through with your technicians, please advise them of any special requirements to follow when moving your furniture such as weak legs, loose tops or previous repairs.
7. Also, call attention to any spots or stains which may require special techniques.
8. Please put your pets in a safe, quiet place where the crew and the cleaning process won't disturb them.

A special note about odors:

1. The carpet cleaning technicians will do everything possible to reduce or eliminate pet odors. However, due to the depth of contamination, 100% success may not be attained. Also, for several days after cleaning you may notice an elevated odor due to higher humidity levels.
2. For safety sake, be sure to keep an extra close eye on your curious little ones.

Special After Care Information:

1. Please leave your plastic "tabs" and "blocks" under your furniture for 48 hours after cleaning.
2. As a safety precaution please do not let your children or pets crawl or lie down on the carpet until they are completely dry.
3. Please use extreme caution when walking from the damp carpet to any hard surface area.

http://christinekurt8763.blogspot.com/2015/10/how-to-ready-your-home-for-professional.html

Real Life Questions And Answers About Roofing Issues

Question: How do you know when an asphalt shingle roof needs replacement? Are there clues to look for before telltale water stains appear on our plaster ceilings?

Answer: While you're in the attic, scan the underside of the roof sheathing for any new signs of water staining since the last inspection,
as well as any soft or moist spots, which tend to show up after a heavy rain. If these problems are widespread, it's a sure sign that you need to call a roofer.

Question: Everything being equal (ventilation, shingle type, climate, etc.), which roof will last longer: one with a steep pitch or one with a shallow pitch? Seems to me a steep hillside erodes more quickly than a low slope, so I'd think that roof shingles would wear out more quickly on a steeply sloped roof.

Answer: Actually, factors other than pitch have a greater effect on shingle durability. The side facing your worst weather typically fares worse than the leeward side. Likewise, a roof system that isn't vented properly and allows heat to build up beneath the roofing has a shorter life than one that is vented.

Question: We have a major leakage problem and are getting a new roof. What is the best underlayment to protect the valleys in my roof from leaking: ice and shield guard, metal flashing, or double rolled shingles?

Answer: First, your roofers should lay down an ice and water shield over the entire roof. Made of polyethylene and rubberized asphalt, this membrane prevents water that has slipped under shingles from penetrating to ceilings below. The valleys should then be covered with metal flashing or weaving. I would also recommend two layers of the ice and water shield on the lower section of the roof (along the eaves), around chimneys and beside the dormers.

Question: My friend has a new 9,000-square-foot home and has had problems with the roof leaking. The roofing man and two painting guys have told her that the caulk on her roof was the source of the problem. They told her that she should have it checked every six months for cracking and possible replacement because the caulk doesn't last long. I have never heard of this before and was wondering if they are pulling her leg or if this is a real problem?

Answer: I've got to tell you, it sounds like they're pulling your leg. You shouldn't need any caulking on a roof with proper flashing. You need a second opinion.

Question: A friend recently mentioned in passing he thought some of the "flashing" on my roof looked as if it were in rough shape. Can you explain exactly what roof flashing is?

Answer: Flashing is just material—usually aluminum or galvanized steel—that's used over joints in roof and wall construction to prevent water seeping in and causing damage.
Depending on the style of your house's roof, you probably have it in the valleys, around the chimney and pipes, and around any dormer windows or skylights.
Most damage shows up either in flashing that's deteriorating due to weathering and oxidizing, or in flashing that has come loose.|I can't say for sure without seeing your roof,
but most flashing problems can be patched or repaired fairly easily. Professional roofers typically cut and shape their own flashing from sheet metal, but the most common
flashing pieces also come pre-formed and can be applied without much difficulty using caulking or roof cement.

https://felicitygray6.wordpress.com/2015/10/31/real-life-questions-and-answers-about-roofing-concerns/

Check Out These Interesting Questions About Landscaping Design

Question: How do you decide which professional is best for your project?

Answer: The best way is to check them out. Ask for references, and contact them. Ask to see some of their work; if you cannot see it in person, then at least ask to see their portfolios. Keep an eye open for successful projects and find out who is responsible. Of course, a reference from a friend is helpful. You can arrange a site visit with a professional and find out if they provide consulting services. Whether or not a professional will charge for a visit depends on the company. If their time is paid for, they are likely to share all of the ideas they come up with while speaking with you. You can decide for yourself whether or not those ideas are to your way of thinking.

Question: Why should I work with a landscape designer?

Answer: Because a professional landscape designer spends their life thinking about the subject, they come to your garden filled with knowledge, creative ideas and imagination to develop a custom design that is uniquely suited to your home, lifestyle and personal preferences. Landscape design is challenging from an artistic, environmental, architectural, engineering and horticultural viewpoint.

Unlike other art forms, a garden is not a static creation, but a dynamic, evolving ecosystem that requires continued inputs and energy over time. Its creation requires careful thought on different levels: botanically (which plants to choose), spatially (where to put what), seasonally (how will it look year-round?) and temporally (what will it look like in ten years?). A landscape designer factors all these things in and then adds an element of style that provides the spirit of the garden. By spending time with a landscape designer to work through the design details during the planning phase, you will save money and time as it is less costly to consider the alternatives and change your mind on paper than it is during installation or after completion.

Landscape design consists of a process that culminates in the creation of a set of documents that become your blueprint and information source for the project. These documents will assist you in obtaining comparable bids from landscape contractors to fully develop your site either in a single project or in phases over time. A landscape designer will work with you to create this master plan, selecting the most appropriate materials & plants for your site and budget, developing solutions for specific problems on your property (i.e. privacy, noise, etc.), and finding the best people in the landscape industry to help bring the vision for your garden to reality.

Additional benefits of working with a landscape designer include assistance with quality control/site observation during installation, the opportunity to purchase plants at considerable savings from retail prices, and formation of a relationship with someone who can provide ongoing consultation as the garden changes and matures.

Question: I have lots of ideas. How will I be involved in the design process?

Answer: The objective is to help you take your ideas and grow them into the landscape of your dreams. To do so a designer works collaboratively to determine which services best suit your needs, budget and timetable, based on your goals for outdoor living space.

Question: What is the difference between a landscape designer, a landscape architect and a design-build landscaper?

Answer: Landscape design and landscape architecture are similar art forms. The ideal designer for your landscape will be the person most compatible with your taste, lifestyle and budget. In general, landscape design involves the design of residential or small commercial landscapes and gardens that require aesthetic and horticultural skills. Because training and expertise vary widely, it is important to look for a designer whose practice conforms to The Standards of Practice of the Association of Professional Landscape Designers (APLD).

Landscape architecture involves the application of more complex architecture and engineering solutions. Landscape architects have a degree in landscape architecture that typically includes limited horticulture education. They are licensed by the state and are qualified to develop construction-ready plans with construction details for complex retaining walls, decks, water features and drainage. The fees for their services are much higher than those for landscape designers.

Design-build landscape contractors typically implement the plans of landscape designers and architects. They may or may not have staff members with design or horticulture training.

Question: How much should I spend on landscaping?
Answer: Quality landscaping offers an excellent return on investment, ranking as one of the top home improvements. According to MONEY magazine story on home renovations, landscaping has a
recovery value of 100% to 200% if it is well done and harmonizes with foliage nearby. With housing values dropping in many areas, homeowners are seeking to enhance their home’s value with attractive, well-planned landscaping. According to a Michigan State University study, high quality landscaping adds 5 to 11% to the home’s price.

https://ferrislouis.wordpress.com/2015/10/31/check-out-these-great-questions-about-landscaping-design/

How To Ready Your House For A Professional Carpet Cleaning

Having your carpet, upholstery and/or hard surface cleaned by a professional carpet cleaning company? Here are some suggestions for you to prepare that will help both of you and them:

1. Please remove any small items such as dining room chairs, magazine racks, floor plants, etc. from any areas that are going to be cleaned.
2. Please remove all breakable items from furniture which will have to be temporarily moved, cleaned under, and placed back.
3. Please pin up any full-length draperies so that they will be at least 6 inches off the floor.
4. Please pin up any skirts on upholstered furniture, which may be touching the carpet.
5. Computer equipment, china cabinets, sectional sofas, entertainment centers, antique and fragile furniture cannot be moved. However, carpet underneath such items can be cleaned where sufficient room is available, or we can edge right around the base.
6. During the pre-inspection walk-through with your technicians, please advise them of any special requirements to follow when moving your furniture such as weak legs, loose tops or previous repairs.
7. Also, call attention to any spots or stains which may require special techniques.
8. Please put your pets in a safe, quiet place where the crew and the cleaning process won't disturb them.

A special note about odors:

1. The carpet cleaning technicians will do everything possible to reduce or eliminate pet odors. However, due to the depth of contamination, 100% success may not be attained. Also, for several days after cleaning you may notice an elevated odor due to higher humidity levels.
2. For safety sake, be sure to keep an extra close eye on your curious little ones.

Special After Care Information:

1. Please leave your plastic "tabs" and "blocks" under your furniture for 48 hours after cleaning.
2. As a safety precaution please do not let your children or pets crawl or lie down on the carpet until they are completely dry.
3. Please use extreme caution when walking from the damp carpet to any hard surface area.

https://thoseheavenlyregrets.wordpress.com/2015/10/31/how-to-prepare-your-office-for-a-professional-carpet-cleaner-3/

When Is My House Ready For A New Air Conditioner?

When Is My Home Ready For A New AC System?

Have a technician determine how efficiently your current system is running. A 13 SEER air conditioner is the minimum efficiency level now made in the U.S. If you’re running a unit with a lower level SEER, it may be time for you to consider unit replacement. A 13 SEER unit can amount to energy savings of about 18% compared to a 10 SEER unit.

In 1992, the government established a minimum cooling efficiency standard of 10 SEER for units installed in new homes. Since January 23, 2006, all air conditioning equipment has a minimum efficiency standard set and mandated by the U.S. Department of Energy. It's often found that 10 SEER units (standard in homes built through 2005) operate at 6 to 8 SEER or less.
To improve efficiency, a homeowner can replace the unit or opt for an air conditioning tune-up, if the unit is in sound shape.

If your air conditioning unit has been breaking down frequently and resulting in the need for AC repair, you need an experienced technician to evaluate next steps. It’s quite possible the unit needs to be replaced. There a variety of options to help you determine what works best within your budget. Financing is also available. Whatever your requirements, a local AC repair company can provide the most sophisticated and advanced air conditioning products available today, combined with accurate and reliable central air installation services.

Energy Saving Green Products

Having energy saving equipment and fixtures in your home puts you on the fast track for going green. Here are some of our most popular items:

Lennox Air Conditioning & Heating Systems – Lennox Residential is a leading global name in home comfort. Lennox’ innovative solutions include energy-efficient air conditioners, furnaces and heat pumps, plus garage unit heaters, air handlers, comfort controls and indoor air quality systems.

Attic Tent® – The Attic Tent makes your pull-down attic stairs airtight, which saves energy and keeps attic dust out of the air you breathe.

Toto – The best in high-efficiency toilets, washlets, shower heads, and faucets.

American Standard high-efficiency AC and heating equipment – Save big on electricity.

Local Power Company
Energy tax credits may provide extra financial incentives. Look for available rebates from utility companies, manufacturers of AC/Heating and plumbing products, and the US government. Your local power company is a good place to start and can usually point you to the latest info on credits, rebates and other incentives in your area.

http://felicitygray6.blogspot.com/2015/10/when-is-my-house-ready-for-new-ac-system_31.html

Real Life Q&A About Roofing Scenarios

Question: How do you know when an asphalt shingle roof needs replacement? Are there clues to look for before telltale water stains appear on our plaster ceilings?

Answer: There are several clues, and the biggest one is age. If your roof is more than 20 years old, there's a good chance it's due for replacement. But younger roofs can fail too,
so it's a good idea to inspect a roof at least once a year. Don't use a ladder, though. Binoculars are easier and a lot safer, and you can spot most problems from the ground.

Question: Everything being equal (ventilation, shingle type, climate, etc.), which roof will last longer: one with a steep pitch or one with a shallow pitch? Seems to me a steep hillside erodes more quickly than a low slope, so I'd think that roof shingles would wear out more quickly on a steeply sloped roof.

Answer: Actually, factors other than pitch have a greater effect on shingle durability. The side facing your worst weather typically fares worse than the leeward side. Likewise, a roof system that isn't vented properly and allows heat to build up beneath the roofing has a shorter life than one that is vented.

Question: We have a major leakage problem and are getting a new roof. What is the best underlayment to protect the valleys in my roof from leaking: ice and shield guard, metal flashing, or double rolled shingles?

Answer: First, your roofers should lay down an ice and water shield over the entire roof. Made of polyethylene and rubberized asphalt, this membrane prevents water that has slipped under shingles from penetrating to ceilings below. The valleys should then be covered with metal flashing or weaving. I would also recommend two layers of the ice and water shield on the lower section of the roof (along the eaves), around chimneys and beside the dormers.

Question: My friend has a new 9,000-square-foot home and has had problems with the roof leaking. The roofing man and two painting guys have told her that the caulk on her roof was the source of the problem. They told her that she should have it checked every six months for cracking and possible replacement because the caulk doesn't last long. I have never heard of this before and was wondering if they are pulling her leg or if this is a real problem?

Answer: I've got to tell you, it sounds like they're pulling your leg. You shouldn't need any caulking on a roof with proper flashing. You need a second opinion.

Question: A friend recently mentioned in passing he thought some of the "flashing" on my roof looked as if it were in rough shape. Can you explain exactly what roof flashing is?

Answer: Flashing is just material—usually aluminum or galvanized steel—that's used over joints in roof and wall construction to prevent water seeping in and causing damage.
Depending on the style of your house's roof, you probably have it in the valleys, around the chimney and pipes, and around any dormer windows or skylights.
Most damage shows up either in flashing that's deteriorating due to weathering and oxidizing, or in flashing that has come loose.|I can't say for sure without seeing your roof,
but most flashing problems can be patched or repaired fairly easily. Professional roofers typically cut and shape their own flashing from sheet metal, but the most common
flashing pieces also come pre-formed and can be applied without much difficulty using caulking or roof cement.

https://christinekurt8763.wordpress.com/2015/10/31/real-life-qa-about-roofing-scenarios/

Some Interesting Questions About Landscaping Design

Question: How do you decide which professional is best for your project?

Answer: The best way is to check them out. Ask for references, and contact them. Ask to see some of their work; if you cannot see it in person, then at least ask to see their portfolios. Keep an eye open for successful projects and find out who is responsible. Of course, a reference from a friend is helpful. You can arrange a site visit with a professional and find out if they provide consulting services. Whether or not a professional will charge for a visit depends on the company. If their time is paid for, they are likely to share all of the ideas they come up with while speaking with you. You can decide for yourself whether or not those ideas are to your way of thinking.

Question: Why should I work with a landscape designer?

Answer: Because a professional landscape designer spends their life thinking about the subject, they come to your garden filled with knowledge, creative ideas and imagination to develop a custom design that is uniquely suited to your home, lifestyle and personal preferences. Landscape design is challenging from an artistic, environmental, architectural, engineering and horticultural viewpoint.

Unlike other art forms, a garden is not a static creation, but a dynamic, evolving ecosystem that requires continued inputs and energy over time. Its creation requires careful thought on different levels: botanically (which plants to choose), spatially (where to put what), seasonally (how will it look year-round?) and temporally (what will it look like in ten years?). A landscape designer factors all these things in and then adds an element of style that provides the spirit of the garden. By spending time with a landscape designer to work through the design details during the planning phase, you will save money and time as it is less costly to consider the alternatives and change your mind on paper than it is during installation or after completion.

Landscape design consists of a process that culminates in the creation of a set of documents that become your blueprint and information source for the project. These documents will assist you in obtaining comparable bids from landscape contractors to fully develop your site either in a single project or in phases over time. A landscape designer will work with you to create this master plan, selecting the most appropriate materials & plants for your site and budget, developing solutions for specific problems on your property (i.e. privacy, noise, etc.), and finding the best people in the landscape industry to help bring the vision for your garden to reality.

Additional benefits of working with a landscape designer include assistance with quality control/site observation during installation, the opportunity to purchase plants at considerable savings from retail prices, and formation of a relationship with someone who can provide ongoing consultation as the garden changes and matures.

Question: I have lots of ideas. How will I be involved in the design process?

Answer: The objective is to help you take your ideas and grow them into the landscape of your dreams. To do so a designer works collaboratively to determine which services best suit your needs, budget and timetable, based on your goals for outdoor living space.

Question: What is the difference between a landscape designer, a landscape architect and a design-build landscaper?

Answer: Landscape design and landscape architecture are similar art forms. The ideal designer for your landscape will be the person most compatible with your taste, lifestyle and budget. In general, landscape design involves the design of residential or small commercial landscapes and gardens that require aesthetic and horticultural skills. Because training and expertise vary widely, it is important to look for a designer whose practice conforms to The Standards of Practice of the Association of Professional Landscape Designers (APLD).

Landscape architecture involves the application of more complex architecture and engineering solutions. Landscape architects have a degree in landscape architecture that typically includes limited horticulture education. They are licensed by the state and are qualified to develop construction-ready plans with construction details for complex retaining walls, decks, water features and drainage. The fees for their services are much higher than those for landscape designers.

Design-build landscape contractors typically implement the plans of landscape designers and architects. They may or may not have staff members with design or horticulture training.

Question: How much should I spend on landscaping?
Answer: Quality landscaping offers an excellent return on investment, ranking as one of the top home improvements. According to MONEY magazine story on home renovations, landscaping has a
recovery value of 100% to 200% if it is well done and harmonizes with foliage nearby. With housing values dropping in many areas, homeowners are seeking to enhance their home’s value with attractive, well-planned landscaping. According to a Michigan State University study, high quality landscaping adds 5 to 11% to the home’s price.

https://daiseysandnightlights.wordpress.com/2015/10/31/a-few-good-questions-about-landscaping-design-2/

How To Ready Your House For A Professional Carpet Cleaner

Having your carpet, upholstery and/or hard surface cleaned by a professional carpet cleaning company? Here are some suggestions for you to prepare that will help both of you and them:

1. Please remove any small items such as dining room chairs, magazine racks, floor plants, etc. from any areas that are going to be cleaned.
2. Please remove all breakable items from furniture which will have to be temporarily moved, cleaned under, and placed back.
3. Please pin up any full-length draperies so that they will be at least 6 inches off the floor.
4. Please pin up any skirts on upholstered furniture, which may be touching the carpet.
5. Computer equipment, china cabinets, sectional sofas, entertainment centers, antique and fragile furniture cannot be moved. However, carpet underneath such items can be cleaned where sufficient room is available, or we can edge right around the base.
6. During the pre-inspection walk-through with your technicians, please advise them of any special requirements to follow when moving your furniture such as weak legs, loose tops or previous repairs.
7. Also, call attention to any spots or stains which may require special techniques.
8. Please put your pets in a safe, quiet place where the crew and the cleaning process won't disturb them.

A special note about odors:

1. The carpet cleaning technicians will do everything possible to reduce or eliminate pet odors. However, due to the depth of contamination, 100% success may not be attained. Also, for several days after cleaning you may notice an elevated odor due to higher humidity levels.
2. For safety sake, be sure to keep an extra close eye on your curious little ones.

Special After Care Information:

1. Please leave your plastic "tabs" and "blocks" under your furniture for 48 hours after cleaning.
2. As a safety precaution please do not let your children or pets crawl or lie down on the carpet until they are completely dry.
3. Please use extreme caution when walking from the damp carpet to any hard surface area.

https://christinekurt8763.wordpress.com/2015/10/31/how-to-ready-your-home-for-a-professional-carpet-cleaning/

When Is My Home Ready For A New AC System?

When Is My House Ready For A New Air Conditioner?

Have a technician determine how efficiently your current system is running. A 13 SEER air conditioner is the minimum efficiency level now made in the U.S. If you’re running a unit with a lower level SEER, it may be time for you to consider unit replacement. A new, high-efficiency system can help you save 40% on cooling costs.

In 1992, the government established a minimum cooling efficiency standard of 10 SEER for units installed in new homes. Since January 23, 2006, all air conditioning equipment has a minimum efficiency standard set and mandated by the U.S. Department of Energy. It's often found that 10 SEER units (standard in homes built through 2005) operate at 6 to 8 SEER or less.
To improve efficiency, a homeowner can replace the unit or opt for an air conditioning tune-up, if the unit is in sound shape.

If your air conditioning unit has been breaking down frequently and resulting in the need for AC repair, you need an experienced technician to evaluate next steps. It’s quite possible the unit needs to be replaced. There a variety of options to help you determine what works best within your budget. Financing is also available. Whatever your requirements, a local AC repair company can provide the most sophisticated and advanced air conditioning products available today, combined with accurate and reliable central air installation services.

Energy Saving Green Products

Having energy saving equipment and fixtures in your home puts you on the fast track for going green. Here are some of our most popular items:

Lennox Air Conditioning & Heating Systems – Lennox Residential is a leading global name in home comfort. Lennox’ innovative solutions include energy-efficient air conditioners, furnaces and heat pumps, plus garage unit heaters, air handlers, comfort controls and indoor air quality systems.

Attic Tent® – The Attic Tent makes your pull-down attic stairs airtight, which saves energy and keeps attic dust out of the air you breathe.

Toto – The best in high-efficiency toilets, washlets, shower heads, and faucets.

American Standard high-efficiency AC and heating equipment – Save big on electricity.

Local Power Company
Energy tax credits may provide extra financial incentives. Look for available rebates from utility companies, manufacturers of AC/Heating and plumbing products, and the US government. Your local power company is a good place to start and can usually point you to the latest info on credits, rebates and other incentives in your area.

http://christinekurt8763.blogspot.com/2015/10/when-is-my-home-ready-for-new-energy.html

Real Life Questions And Answers About Roofing Scenarios

Question: How do you know when an asphalt shingle roof needs replacement? Are there clues to look for before telltale water stains appear on our plaster ceilings?

Answer: Here's
what to look for: numerous shingles that are lifting up, cracked or missing, with curled edges, or with smooth dark areas, which indicate that the protective granules have worn off.
Also, go into the attic on a sunny day and, with the lights off, check the underside of the chimney and the stack vent. If you see little pinhole spots of light, the flashing is shot—another
indication that the roofing might not be in good shape.

Question: Everything being equal (ventilation, shingle type, climate, etc.), which roof will last longer: one with a steep pitch or one with a shallow pitch? Seems to me a steep hillside erodes more quickly than a low slope, so I'd think that roof shingles would wear out more quickly on a steeply sloped roof.

Answer: It's difficult to say. On one hand, a steep roof is less likely to collect leaves and other debris that hold moisture against the shingles and invite the growth of moss and algae. On the other hand, that same roof in an unshaded area facing due south will take the full brunt of the sun, which is hard on any roof.

Question: We have a major leakage problem and are getting a new roof. What is the best underlayment to protect the valleys in my roof from leaking: ice and shield guard, metal flashing, or double rolled shingles?

Answer: First, your roofers should lay down an ice and water shield over the entire roof. Made of polyethylene and rubberized asphalt, this membrane prevents water that has slipped under shingles from penetrating to ceilings below. The valleys should then be covered with metal flashing or weaving. I would also recommend two layers of the ice and water shield on the lower section of the roof (along the eaves), around chimneys and beside the dormers.

Question: My friend has a new 9,000-square-foot home and has had problems with the roof leaking. The roofing man and two painting guys have told her that the caulk on her roof was the source of the problem. They told her that she should have it checked every six months for cracking and possible replacement because the caulk doesn't last long. I have never heard of this before and was wondering if they are pulling her leg or if this is a real problem?

Answer: I've got to tell you, it sounds like they're pulling your leg. You shouldn't need any caulking on a roof with proper flashing. You need a second opinion.

Question: A friend recently mentioned in passing he thought some of the "flashing" on my roof looked as if it were in rough shape. Can you explain exactly what roof flashing is?

Answer: Flashing is just material—usually aluminum or galvanized steel—that's used over joints in roof and wall construction to prevent water seeping in and causing damage.
Depending on the style of your house's roof, you probably have it in the valleys, around the chimney and pipes, and around any dormer windows or skylights.
Most damage shows up either in flashing that's deteriorating due to weathering and oxidizing, or in flashing that has come loose.|I can't say for sure without seeing your roof,
but most flashing problems can be patched or repaired fairly easily. Professional roofers typically cut and shape their own flashing from sheet metal, but the most common
flashing pieces also come pre-formed and can be applied without much difficulty using caulking or roof cement.

https://daiseysandnightlights.wordpress.com/2015/10/31/real-life-questions-and-answers-about-roofing-scenarios/

A Few Interesting Questions About Landscaping Design

Question: How do you decide which professional is best for your project?

Answer: The best way is to check them out. Ask for references, and contact them. Ask to see some of their work; if you cannot see it in person, then at least ask to see their portfolios. Keep an eye open for successful projects and find out who is responsible. Of course, a reference from a friend is helpful. You can arrange a site visit with a professional and find out if they provide consulting services. Whether or not a professional will charge for a visit depends on the company. If their time is paid for, they are likely to share all of the ideas they come up with while speaking with you. You can decide for yourself whether or not those ideas are to your way of thinking.

Question: Why should I work with a landscape designer?

Answer: Because a professional landscape designer spends their life thinking about the subject, they come to your garden filled with knowledge, creative ideas and imagination to develop a custom design that is uniquely suited to your home, lifestyle and personal preferences. Landscape design is challenging from an artistic, environmental, architectural, engineering and horticultural viewpoint.

Unlike other art forms, a garden is not a static creation, but a dynamic, evolving ecosystem that requires continued inputs and energy over time. Its creation requires careful thought on different levels: botanically (which plants to choose), spatially (where to put what), seasonally (how will it look year-round?) and temporally (what will it look like in ten years?). A landscape designer factors all these things in and then adds an element of style that provides the spirit of the garden. By spending time with a landscape designer to work through the design details during the planning phase, you will save money and time as it is less costly to consider the alternatives and change your mind on paper than it is during installation or after completion.

Landscape design consists of a process that culminates in the creation of a set of documents that become your blueprint and information source for the project. These documents will assist you in obtaining comparable bids from landscape contractors to fully develop your site either in a single project or in phases over time. A landscape designer will work with you to create this master plan, selecting the most appropriate materials & plants for your site and budget, developing solutions for specific problems on your property (i.e. privacy, noise, etc.), and finding the best people in the landscape industry to help bring the vision for your garden to reality.

Additional benefits of working with a landscape designer include assistance with quality control/site observation during installation, the opportunity to purchase plants at considerable savings from retail prices, and formation of a relationship with someone who can provide ongoing consultation as the garden changes and matures.

Question: I have lots of ideas. How will I be involved in the design process?

Answer: The objective is to help you take your ideas and grow them into the landscape of your dreams. To do so a designer works collaboratively to determine which services best suit your needs, budget and timetable, based on your goals for outdoor living space.

Question: What is the difference between a landscape designer, a landscape architect and a design-build landscaper?

Answer: Landscape design and landscape architecture are similar art forms. The ideal designer for your landscape will be the person most compatible with your taste, lifestyle and budget. In general, landscape design involves the design of residential or small commercial landscapes and gardens that require aesthetic and horticultural skills. Because training and expertise vary widely, it is important to look for a designer whose practice conforms to The Standards of Practice of the Association of Professional Landscape Designers (APLD).

Landscape architecture involves the application of more complex architecture and engineering solutions. Landscape architects have a degree in landscape architecture that typically includes limited horticulture education. They are licensed by the state and are qualified to develop construction-ready plans with construction details for complex retaining walls, decks, water features and drainage. The fees for their services are much higher than those for landscape designers.

Design-build landscape contractors typically implement the plans of landscape designers and architects. They may or may not have staff members with design or horticulture training.

Question: How much should I spend on landscaping?
Answer: Quality landscaping offers an excellent return on investment, ranking as one of the top home improvements. According to MONEY magazine story on home renovations, landscaping has a
recovery value of 100% to 200% if it is well done and harmonizes with foliage nearby. With housing values dropping in many areas, homeowners are seeking to enhance their home’s value with attractive, well-planned landscaping. According to a Michigan State University study, high quality landscaping adds 5 to 11% to the home’s price.

http://powderbluetsunemori.blogspot.com/2015/10/some-great-questions-about-landscaping_31.html

How To Ready Your Office For A Professional Carpet Cleaner

Having your carpet, upholstery and/or hard surface cleaned by a professional carpet cleaning company? Here are some suggestions for you to prepare that will help both of you and them:

1. Please remove any small items such as dining room chairs, magazine racks, floor plants, etc. from any areas that are going to be cleaned.
2. Please remove all breakable items from furniture which will have to be temporarily moved, cleaned under, and placed back.
3. Please pin up any full-length draperies so that they will be at least 6 inches off the floor.
4. Please pin up any skirts on upholstered furniture, which may be touching the carpet.
5. Computer equipment, china cabinets, sectional sofas, entertainment centers, antique and fragile furniture cannot be moved. However, carpet underneath such items can be cleaned where sufficient room is available, or we can edge right around the base.
6. During the pre-inspection walk-through with your technicians, please advise them of any special requirements to follow when moving your furniture such as weak legs, loose tops or previous repairs.
7. Also, call attention to any spots or stains which may require special techniques.
8. Please put your pets in a safe, quiet place where the crew and the cleaning process won't disturb them.

A special note about odors:

1. The carpet cleaning technicians will do everything possible to reduce or eliminate pet odors. However, due to the depth of contamination, 100% success may not be attained. Also, for several days after cleaning you may notice an elevated odor due to higher humidity levels.
2. For safety sake, be sure to keep an extra close eye on your curious little ones.

Special After Care Information:

1. Please leave your plastic "tabs" and "blocks" under your furniture for 48 hours after cleaning.
2. As a safety precaution please do not let your children or pets crawl or lie down on the carpet until they are completely dry.
3. Please use extreme caution when walking from the damp carpet to any hard surface area.

https://youknowitsandrew.wordpress.com/2015/10/31/how-to-ready-your-house-for-a-professional-carpet-cleaning/

When Is My Home Ready For A New Air Conditioner?

When Is My House Ready For A New Air Conditioner?

Have a technician determine how efficiently your current system is running. A 13 SEER air conditioner is the minimum efficiency level now made in the U.S. If you’re running a unit with a lower level SEER, it may be time for you to consider unit replacement. If your air conditioning system is older than 7 years, it’s likely inefficient by today’s energy efficiency standards.

In 1992, the government established a minimum cooling efficiency standard of 10 SEER for units installed in new homes. Since January 23, 2006, all air conditioning equipment has a minimum efficiency standard set and mandated by the U.S. Department of Energy. It's often found that 10 SEER units (standard in homes built through 2005) operate at 6 to 8 SEER or less.
To improve efficiency, a homeowner can replace the unit or opt for an air conditioning tune-up, if the unit is in sound shape.

If your air conditioning unit has been breaking down frequently and resulting in the need for AC repair, you need an experienced technician to evaluate next steps. It’s quite possible the unit needs to be replaced. There a variety of options to help you determine what works best within your budget. Financing is also available. Whatever your requirements, a local AC repair company can provide the most sophisticated and advanced air conditioning products available today, combined with accurate and reliable central air installation services.

Energy Saving Green Products

Having energy saving equipment and fixtures in your home puts you on the fast track for going green. Here are some of our most popular items:

Lennox Air Conditioning & Heating Systems – Lennox Residential is a leading global name in home comfort. Lennox’ innovative solutions include energy-efficient air conditioners, furnaces and heat pumps, plus garage unit heaters, air handlers, comfort controls and indoor air quality systems.

Attic Tent® – The Attic Tent makes your pull-down attic stairs airtight, which saves energy and keeps attic dust out of the air you breathe.

Rinnai Tankless Water Heaters – Rinnai Tankless Water Heaters are the ultimate choice for energy cost savings and environmental preservation. Rinnai Tankless Water Heaters save money on your energy bill by heating water only when needed, unlike a traditional tank-style water heater that heats and reheats water all day long.

American Standard high-efficiency AC and heating equipment – Save big on electricity.

Local Power Company
Energy tax credits may provide extra financial incentives. Look for available rebates from utility companies, manufacturers of AC/Heating and plumbing products, and the US government. Your local power company is a good place to start and can usually point you to the latest info on credits, rebates and other incentives in your area.

https://felicitygray6.wordpress.com/2015/10/31/when-is-my-house-ready-for-new-energy-saving-green-products/

Some Good Questions About Landscaping Design

Question: How do you decide which professional is best for your project?

Answer: The best way is to check them out. Ask for references, and contact them. Ask to see some of their work; if you cannot see it in person, then at least ask to see their portfolios. Keep an eye open for successful projects and find out who is responsible. Of course, a reference from a friend is helpful. You can arrange a site visit with a professional and find out if they provide consulting services. Whether or not a professional will charge for a visit depends on the company. If their time is paid for, they are likely to share all of the ideas they come up with while speaking with you. You can decide for yourself whether or not those ideas are to your way of thinking.

Question: Why should I work with a landscape designer?

Answer: Because a professional landscape designer spends their life thinking about the subject, they come to your garden filled with knowledge, creative ideas and imagination to develop a custom design that is uniquely suited to your home, lifestyle and personal preferences. Landscape design is challenging from an artistic, environmental, architectural, engineering and horticultural viewpoint.

Unlike other art forms, a garden is not a static creation, but a dynamic, evolving ecosystem that requires continued inputs and energy over time. Its creation requires careful thought on different levels: botanically (which plants to choose), spatially (where to put what), seasonally (how will it look year-round?) and temporally (what will it look like in ten years?). A landscape designer factors all these things in and then adds an element of style that provides the spirit of the garden. By spending time with a landscape designer to work through the design details during the planning phase, you will save money and time as it is less costly to consider the alternatives and change your mind on paper than it is during installation or after completion.

Landscape design consists of a process that culminates in the creation of a set of documents that become your blueprint and information source for the project. These documents will assist you in obtaining comparable bids from landscape contractors to fully develop your site either in a single project or in phases over time. A landscape designer will work with you to create this master plan, selecting the most appropriate materials & plants for your site and budget, developing solutions for specific problems on your property (i.e. privacy, noise, etc.), and finding the best people in the landscape industry to help bring the vision for your garden to reality.

Additional benefits of working with a landscape designer include assistance with quality control/site observation during installation, the opportunity to purchase plants at considerable savings from retail prices, and formation of a relationship with someone who can provide ongoing consultation as the garden changes and matures.

Question: I have lots of ideas. How will I be involved in the design process?

Answer: The objective is to help you take your ideas and grow them into the landscape of your dreams. To do so a designer works collaboratively to determine which services best suit your needs, budget and timetable, based on your goals for outdoor living space.

Question: What is the difference between a landscape designer, a landscape architect and a design-build landscaper?

Answer: Landscape design and landscape architecture are similar art forms. The ideal designer for your landscape will be the person most compatible with your taste, lifestyle and budget. In general, landscape design involves the design of residential or small commercial landscapes and gardens that require aesthetic and horticultural skills. Because training and expertise vary widely, it is important to look for a designer whose practice conforms to The Standards of Practice of the Association of Professional Landscape Designers (APLD).

Landscape architecture involves the application of more complex architecture and engineering solutions. Landscape architects have a degree in landscape architecture that typically includes limited horticulture education. They are licensed by the state and are qualified to develop construction-ready plans with construction details for complex retaining walls, decks, water features and drainage. The fees for their services are much higher than those for landscape designers.

Design-build landscape contractors typically implement the plans of landscape designers and architects. They may or may not have staff members with design or horticulture training.

Question: How much should I spend on landscaping?
Answer: Quality landscaping offers an excellent return on investment, ranking as one of the top home improvements. According to MONEY magazine story on home renovations, landscaping has a
recovery value of 100% to 200% if it is well done and harmonizes with foliage nearby. With housing values dropping in many areas, homeowners are seeking to enhance their home’s value with attractive, well-planned landscaping. According to a Michigan State University study, high quality landscaping adds 5 to 11% to the home’s price.

http://christinekurt8763.blogspot.com/2015/10/some-good-questions-about-landscaping.html

Simpson Strong-Tie Supports National Earthquake Preparedness Summits

Simpson Strong-Tie has partnered with the nonprofit Federal Alliance for Safe Homes to host QuakeSmart Earthquake Business Preparedness Summits.

Trimble Enhances Fleet Management with Portable Asset Tracking

Trimble has announced the launch of Trimble® Asset Tracking, an enhancement to its fleet management portfolio that enables field service organizations operating high-value portable assets, such as generators, pumps, or trailers towed behind a service vehicle, to better track and manage asset performance.

Locating A Quality Landscaping Company Pensacola

There are many things that residence and homeowner can do to enhance the appearance and overall value of their numerous homes with the help of a Landscaping Company Pensacola. However, among the best and most budget friendly things that individuals can easily do to enhance the appeal and feel of their residential properties is to make certain that their landscaping looks fantastic. Thankfully for homeowners of the Pensacola location, there are a number of incredible professional landscape design solutions that want and able to assist home and homeowner obtain their residential property looking its greatest. Prior to you go and decide on an arbitrary landscaping business in Pensacola out of the phone book, you will have to do a little bit of study to make certain that the (city) locksmith firm you are working with is matched to meet the landscape design requirements of you and your residential property.

Finding A Landscaping Company Pensacola

One of the first things that you have to find out about a potential landscaping business prior to you employ them is whether or not they feature a physical business place in your area. You do not wish to work with a company that does not have a long-lasting location due to the fact that this generally implies that they are a call center that acquires out the jobs that they do to third party gardeners. These kinds of business are so much more expensive than local business due to the fact that they have to pay added for their work and need to make a profit. Furthermore, these type of landscaping business are really difficult to obtain in contact with given that they are not in the location and have no one supervising the landscaping job other than the professional, that is not their worker. As soon as you have limited the landscape design firms you are checking out, you could begin to obtain a considerably better understanding of which firms in the region are trustworthy and which ones are just out to make money. You can easily further narrow your search by going online and reviewing customer evaluations and testimonials to recognize which firms in your region are trusted by the neighborhood and deal wonderful landscaping services at a fair and reasonable cost. By going through testimonials and client testimonials of local landscape design companies, you will be able to determine which one is the appropriate one for you and your home. Having excellent landscape design can make all the distinction in the world to the outside appearance of your estate or property.

Landscaping Company Pensacola Benefits

As soon as you have actually selected the correct professional landscape design solution in Pensacola, you will be on your method to having a fantastic landscape design that will certainly make your house or home stand apart and look fantastic. To start your landscaping project, or to merely obtain care and maintenance for your current landscaping, go internet today and seek a regional landscaping solution in (city) to find a reliable and top quality gardener in your area. Once more, having excellent looking garden to near your residence or residential property is the best means to quickly and drastically improve the look and value of your building.

Health Highlights: Oct. 30, 2015

Oregon Teen Has Bubonic Plague FDA Targets Stores Selling Tobacco to Minors U.S. Doctor Who Helped Created Modern Paramedic System Dies Herr's Chips

How To Ready Your House For A Professional Carpet Cleaner

Having your carpet, upholstery and/or hard surface cleaned by a professional carpet cleaning company? Here are some suggestions for you to prepare that will help both of you and them:

1. Please remove any small items such as dining room chairs, magazine racks, floor plants, etc. from any areas that are going to be cleaned.
2. Please remove all breakable items from furniture which will have to be temporarily moved, cleaned under, and placed back.
3. Please pin up any full-length draperies so that they will be at least 6 inches off the floor.
4. Please pin up any skirts on upholstered furniture, which may be touching the carpet.
5. Computer equipment, china cabinets, sectional sofas, entertainment centers, antique and fragile furniture cannot be moved. However, carpet underneath such items can be cleaned where sufficient room is available, or we can edge right around the base.
6. During the pre-inspection walk-through with your technicians, please advise them of any special requirements to follow when moving your furniture such as weak legs, loose tops or previous repairs.
7. Also, call attention to any spots or stains which may require special techniques.
8. Please put your pets in a safe, quiet place where the crew and the cleaning process won't disturb them.

A special note about odors:

1. The carpet cleaning technicians will do everything possible to reduce or eliminate pet odors. However, due to the depth of contamination, 100% success may not be attained. Also, for several days after cleaning you may notice an elevated odor due to higher humidity levels.
2. For safety sake, be sure to keep an extra close eye on your curious little ones.

Special After Care Information:

1. Please leave your plastic "tabs" and "blocks" under your furniture for 48 hours after cleaning.
2. As a safety precaution please do not let your children or pets crawl or lie down on the carpet until they are completely dry.
3. Please use extreme caution when walking from the damp carpet to any hard surface area.

http://christinekurt8763.tumblr.com/post/132246893669/how-to-prepare-your-house-for-a-professional

When Is My House Ready For A New AC System?

When Is My Home Ready For A New AC System?

Have a technician determine how efficiently your current system is running. A 13 SEER air conditioner is the minimum efficiency level now made in the U.S. If you’re running a unit with a lower level SEER, it may be time for you to consider unit replacement. A new, high-efficiency system can help you save 40% on cooling costs.

In 1992, the government established a minimum cooling efficiency standard of 10 SEER for units installed in new homes. Since January 23, 2006, all air conditioning equipment has a minimum efficiency standard set and mandated by the U.S. Department of Energy. It's often found that 10 SEER units (standard in homes built through 2005) operate at 6 to 8 SEER or less.
To improve efficiency, a homeowner can replace the unit or opt for an air conditioning tune-up, if the unit is in sound shape.

If your air conditioning unit has been breaking down frequently and resulting in the need for AC repair, you need an experienced technician to evaluate next steps. It’s quite possible the unit needs to be replaced. There a variety of options to help you determine what works best within your budget. Financing is also available. Whatever your requirements, a local AC repair company can provide the most sophisticated and advanced air conditioning products available today, combined with accurate and reliable central air installation services.

Energy Saving Green Products

Having energy saving equipment and fixtures in your home puts you on the fast track for going green. Here are some of our most popular items:

Lennox Air Conditioning & Heating Systems – Lennox Residential is a leading global name in home comfort. Lennox’ innovative solutions include energy-efficient air conditioners, furnaces and heat pumps, plus garage unit heaters, air handlers, comfort controls and indoor air quality systems.

Grundfos Hot Water Recirculation Pump – By constantly circulating hot water through the pipes from the heater to the furthest fixture, the water in the pipes is always hot, and no water is wasted during the wait.

Toto – The best in high-efficiency toilets, washlets, shower heads, and faucets.

American Standard high-efficiency AC and heating equipment – Save big on electricity.

Local Power Company
Energy tax credits may provide extra financial incentives. Look for available rebates from utility companies, manufacturers of AC/Heating and plumbing products, and the US government. Your local power company is a good place to start and can usually point you to the latest info on credits, rebates and other incentives in your area.

https://acrepairpensacola.wordpress.com/2015/10/30/when-is-my-home-ready-for-new-energy-saving-green-products-4/

Real Life Questions And Answers About Roofing Scenarios

Question: How do you know when an asphalt shingle roof needs replacement? Are there clues to look for before telltale water stains appear on our plaster ceilings?

Answer: While you're in the attic, scan the underside of the roof sheathing for any new signs of water staining since the last inspection,
as well as any soft or moist spots, which tend to show up after a heavy rain. If these problems are widespread, it's a sure sign that you need to call a roofer.

Question: Everything being equal (ventilation, shingle type, climate, etc.), which roof will last longer: one with a steep pitch or one with a shallow pitch? Seems to me a steep hillside erodes more quickly than a low slope, so I'd think that roof shingles would wear out more quickly on a steeply sloped roof.

Answer: It's difficult to say. On one hand, a steep roof is less likely to collect leaves and other debris that hold moisture against the shingles and invite the growth of moss and algae. On the other hand, that same roof in an unshaded area facing due south will take the full brunt of the sun, which is hard on any roof.

Question: We have a major leakage problem and are getting a new roof. What is the best underlayment to protect the valleys in my roof from leaking: ice and shield guard, metal flashing, or double rolled shingles?

Answer: First, your roofers should lay down an ice and water shield over the entire roof. Made of polyethylene and rubberized asphalt, this membrane prevents water that has slipped under shingles from penetrating to ceilings below. The valleys should then be covered with metal flashing or weaving. I would also recommend two layers of the ice and water shield on the lower section of the roof (along the eaves), around chimneys and beside the dormers.

Question: My friend has a new 9,000-square-foot home and has had problems with the roof leaking. The roofing man and two painting guys have told her that the caulk on her roof was the source of the problem. They told her that she should have it checked every six months for cracking and possible replacement because the caulk doesn't last long. I have never heard of this before and was wondering if they are pulling her leg or if this is a real problem?

Answer: I've got to tell you, it sounds like they're pulling your leg. You shouldn't need any caulking on a roof with proper flashing. You need a second opinion.

Question: A friend recently mentioned in passing he thought some of the "flashing" on my roof looked as if it were in rough shape. Can you explain exactly what roof flashing is?

Answer: Flashing is just material—usually aluminum or galvanized steel—that's used over joints in roof and wall construction to prevent water seeping in and causing damage.
Depending on the style of your house's roof, you probably have it in the valleys, around the chimney and pipes, and around any dormer windows or skylights.
Most damage shows up either in flashing that's deteriorating due to weathering and oxidizing, or in flashing that has come loose.|I can't say for sure without seeing your roof,
but most flashing problems can be patched or repaired fairly easily. Professional roofers typically cut and shape their own flashing from sheet metal, but the most common
flashing pieces also come pre-formed and can be applied without much difficulty using caulking or roof cement.

http://ferrislouis7332.tumblr.com/post/132234288108/real-life-qa-about-roofing-concerns

Check Out These Interesting Questions About Landscaping Design

Question: How do you decide which professional is best for your project?

Answer: The best way is to check them out. Ask for references, and contact them. Ask to see some of their work; if you cannot see it in person, then at least ask to see their portfolios. Keep an eye open for successful projects and find out who is responsible. Of course, a reference from a friend is helpful. You can arrange a site visit with a professional and find out if they provide consulting services. Whether or not a professional will charge for a visit depends on the company. If their time is paid for, they are likely to share all of the ideas they come up with while speaking with you. You can decide for yourself whether or not those ideas are to your way of thinking.

Question: Why should I work with a landscape designer?

Answer: Because a professional landscape designer spends their life thinking about the subject, they come to your garden filled with knowledge, creative ideas and imagination to develop a custom design that is uniquely suited to your home, lifestyle and personal preferences. Landscape design is challenging from an artistic, environmental, architectural, engineering and horticultural viewpoint.

Unlike other art forms, a garden is not a static creation, but a dynamic, evolving ecosystem that requires continued inputs and energy over time. Its creation requires careful thought on different levels: botanically (which plants to choose), spatially (where to put what), seasonally (how will it look year-round?) and temporally (what will it look like in ten years?). A landscape designer factors all these things in and then adds an element of style that provides the spirit of the garden. By spending time with a landscape designer to work through the design details during the planning phase, you will save money and time as it is less costly to consider the alternatives and change your mind on paper than it is during installation or after completion.

Landscape design consists of a process that culminates in the creation of a set of documents that become your blueprint and information source for the project. These documents will assist you in obtaining comparable bids from landscape contractors to fully develop your site either in a single project or in phases over time. A landscape designer will work with you to create this master plan, selecting the most appropriate materials & plants for your site and budget, developing solutions for specific problems on your property (i.e. privacy, noise, etc.), and finding the best people in the landscape industry to help bring the vision for your garden to reality.

Additional benefits of working with a landscape designer include assistance with quality control/site observation during installation, the opportunity to purchase plants at considerable savings from retail prices, and formation of a relationship with someone who can provide ongoing consultation as the garden changes and matures.

Question: I have lots of ideas. How will I be involved in the design process?

Answer: The objective is to help you take your ideas and grow them into the landscape of your dreams. To do so a designer works collaboratively to determine which services best suit your needs, budget and timetable, based on your goals for outdoor living space.

Question: What is the difference between a landscape designer, a landscape architect and a design-build landscaper?

Answer: Landscape design and landscape architecture are similar art forms. The ideal designer for your landscape will be the person most compatible with your taste, lifestyle and budget. In general, landscape design involves the design of residential or small commercial landscapes and gardens that require aesthetic and horticultural skills. Because training and expertise vary widely, it is important to look for a designer whose practice conforms to The Standards of Practice of the Association of Professional Landscape Designers (APLD).

Landscape architecture involves the application of more complex architecture and engineering solutions. Landscape architects have a degree in landscape architecture that typically includes limited horticulture education. They are licensed by the state and are qualified to develop construction-ready plans with construction details for complex retaining walls, decks, water features and drainage. The fees for their services are much higher than those for landscape designers.

Design-build landscape contractors typically implement the plans of landscape designers and architects. They may or may not have staff members with design or horticulture training.

Question: How much should I spend on landscaping?
Answer: Quality landscaping offers an excellent return on investment, ranking as one of the top home improvements. According to MONEY magazine story on home renovations, landscaping has a
recovery value of 100% to 200% if it is well done and harmonizes with foliage nearby. With housing values dropping in many areas, homeowners are seeking to enhance their home’s value with attractive, well-planned landscaping. According to a Michigan State University study, high quality landscaping adds 5 to 11% to the home’s price.

http://ferrislouis7332.tumblr.com/post/132233033128/a-few-good-questions-about-landscaping-design

How To Prepare Your Home For A Professional Carpet Cleaner

Having your carpet, upholstery and/or hard surface cleaned by a professional carpet cleaning company? Here are some suggestions for you to prepare that will help both of you and them:

1. Please remove any small items such as dining room chairs, magazine racks, floor plants, etc. from any areas that are going to be cleaned.
2. Please remove all breakable items from furniture which will have to be temporarily moved, cleaned under, and placed back.
3. Please pin up any full-length draperies so that they will be at least 6 inches off the floor.
4. Please pin up any skirts on upholstered furniture, which may be touching the carpet.
5. Computer equipment, china cabinets, sectional sofas, entertainment centers, antique and fragile furniture cannot be moved. However, carpet underneath such items can be cleaned where sufficient room is available, or we can edge right around the base.
6. During the pre-inspection walk-through with your technicians, please advise them of any special requirements to follow when moving your furniture such as weak legs, loose tops or previous repairs.
7. Also, call attention to any spots or stains which may require special techniques.
8. Please put your pets in a safe, quiet place where the crew and the cleaning process won't disturb them.

A special note about odors:

1. The carpet cleaning technicians will do everything possible to reduce or eliminate pet odors. However, due to the depth of contamination, 100% success may not be attained. Also, for several days after cleaning you may notice an elevated odor due to higher humidity levels.
2. For safety sake, be sure to keep an extra close eye on your curious little ones.

Special After Care Information:

1. Please leave your plastic "tabs" and "blocks" under your furniture for 48 hours after cleaning.
2. As a safety precaution please do not let your children or pets crawl or lie down on the carpet until they are completely dry.
3. Please use extreme caution when walking from the damp carpet to any hard surface area.

https://pretzlesandjuice.wordpress.com/2015/10/30/how-to-prepare-your-office-for-a-professional-carpet-cleaner-2/

When Is My House Ready For New Energy Saving Green Products

When Is My House Ready For A New Air Conditioner?

Have a technician determine how efficiently your current system is running. A 13 SEER air conditioner is the minimum efficiency level now made in the U.S. If you’re running a unit with a lower level SEER, it may be time for you to consider unit replacement. If your air conditioning system is older than 7 years, it’s likely inefficient by today’s energy efficiency standards.

In 1992, the government established a minimum cooling efficiency standard of 10 SEER for units installed in new homes. Since January 23, 2006, all air conditioning equipment has a minimum efficiency standard set and mandated by the U.S. Department of Energy. It's often found that 10 SEER units (standard in homes built through 2005) operate at 6 to 8 SEER or less.
To improve efficiency, a homeowner can replace the unit or opt for an air conditioning tune-up, if the unit is in sound shape.

If your air conditioning unit has been breaking down frequently and resulting in the need for AC repair, you need an experienced technician to evaluate next steps. It’s quite possible the unit needs to be replaced. There a variety of options to help you determine what works best within your budget. Financing is also available. Whatever your requirements, a local AC repair company can provide the most sophisticated and advanced air conditioning products available today, combined with accurate and reliable central air installation services.

Energy Saving Green Products

Having energy saving equipment and fixtures in your home puts you on the fast track for going green. Here are some of our most popular items:

Lennox Air Conditioning & Heating Systems – Lennox Residential is a leading global name in home comfort. Lennox’ innovative solutions include energy-efficient air conditioners, furnaces and heat pumps, plus garage unit heaters, air handlers, comfort controls and indoor air quality systems.

Owens Corning AttiCat® Insulation – When your home doesn’t have adequate insulation, it results in major energy loss. So by increasing the amount of insulation in your attic, you’ll lower your energy consumption and save our valuable natural resources. AttiCat is a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) approved product.

Rinnai Tankless Water Heaters – Rinnai Tankless Water Heaters are the ultimate choice for energy cost savings and environmental preservation. Rinnai Tankless Water Heaters save money on your energy bill by heating water only when needed, unlike a traditional tank-style water heater that heats and reheats water all day long.

American Standard high-efficiency AC and heating equipment – Save big on electricity.

Local Power Company
Energy tax credits may provide extra financial incentives. Look for available rebates from utility companies, manufacturers of AC/Heating and plumbing products, and the US government. Your local power company is a good place to start and can usually point you to the latest info on credits, rebates and other incentives in your area.

https://powderbluetsunemori.wordpress.com/2015/10/30/when-is-my-house-ready-for-a-new-ac-system/

When Is My House Ready For New Energy Saving Green Products

When Is My House Ready For A New Air Conditioner?

Have a technician determine how efficiently your current system is running. A 13 SEER air conditioner is the minimum efficiency level now made in the U.S. If you’re running a unit with a lower level SEER, it may be time for you to consider unit replacement. A new, high-efficiency system can help you save 40% on cooling costs.

In 1992, the government established a minimum cooling efficiency standard of 10 SEER for units installed in new homes. Since January 23, 2006, all air conditioning equipment has a minimum efficiency standard set and mandated by the U.S. Department of Energy. It's often found that 10 SEER units (standard in homes built through 2005) operate at 6 to 8 SEER or less.
To improve efficiency, a homeowner can replace the unit or opt for an air conditioning tune-up, if the unit is in sound shape.

If your air conditioning unit has been breaking down frequently and resulting in the need for AC repair, you need an experienced technician to evaluate next steps. It’s quite possible the unit needs to be replaced. There a variety of options to help you determine what works best within your budget. Financing is also available. Whatever your requirements, a local AC repair company can provide the most sophisticated and advanced air conditioning products available today, combined with accurate and reliable central air installation services.

Energy Saving Green Products

Having energy saving equipment and fixtures in your home puts you on the fast track for going green. Here are some of our most popular items:

Lennox Air Conditioning & Heating Systems – Lennox Residential is a leading global name in home comfort. Lennox’ innovative solutions include energy-efficient air conditioners, furnaces and heat pumps, plus garage unit heaters, air handlers, comfort controls and indoor air quality systems.

Grundfos Hot Water Recirculation Pump – By constantly circulating hot water through the pipes from the heater to the furthest fixture, the water in the pipes is always hot, and no water is wasted during the wait.

Rinnai Tankless Water Heaters – Rinnai Tankless Water Heaters are the ultimate choice for energy cost savings and environmental preservation. Rinnai Tankless Water Heaters save money on your energy bill by heating water only when needed, unlike a traditional tank-style water heater that heats and reheats water all day long.

American Standard high-efficiency AC and heating equipment – Save big on electricity.

Local Power Company
Energy tax credits may provide extra financial incentives. Look for available rebates from utility companies, manufacturers of AC/Heating and plumbing products, and the US government. Your local power company is a good place to start and can usually point you to the latest info on credits, rebates and other incentives in your area.

http://thoseheavenlyregrets.blogspot.com/2015/10/when-is-my-house-ready-for-new-energy_73.html

Real Life Questions And Answers About Roofing Concerns

Question: How do you know when an asphalt shingle roof needs replacement? Are there clues to look for before telltale water stains appear on our plaster ceilings?

Answer: There are several clues, and the biggest one is age. If your roof is more than 20 years old, there's a good chance it's due for replacement. But younger roofs can fail too,
so it's a good idea to inspect a roof at least once a year. Don't use a ladder, though. Binoculars are easier and a lot safer, and you can spot most problems from the ground.

Question: Everything being equal (ventilation, shingle type, climate, etc.), which roof will last longer: one with a steep pitch or one with a shallow pitch? Seems to me a steep hillside erodes more quickly than a low slope, so I'd think that roof shingles would wear out more quickly on a steeply sloped roof.

Answer: It's difficult to say. On one hand, a steep roof is less likely to collect leaves and other debris that hold moisture against the shingles and invite the growth of moss and algae. On the other hand, that same roof in an unshaded area facing due south will take the full brunt of the sun, which is hard on any roof.

Question: We have a major leakage problem and are getting a new roof. What is the best underlayment to protect the valleys in my roof from leaking: ice and shield guard, metal flashing, or double rolled shingles?

Answer: First, your roofers should lay down an ice and water shield over the entire roof. Made of polyethylene and rubberized asphalt, this membrane prevents water that has slipped under shingles from penetrating to ceilings below. The valleys should then be covered with metal flashing or weaving. I would also recommend two layers of the ice and water shield on the lower section of the roof (along the eaves), around chimneys and beside the dormers.

Question: My friend has a new 9,000-square-foot home and has had problems with the roof leaking. The roofing man and two painting guys have told her that the caulk on her roof was the source of the problem. They told her that she should have it checked every six months for cracking and possible replacement because the caulk doesn't last long. I have never heard of this before and was wondering if they are pulling her leg or if this is a real problem?

Answer: I've got to tell you, it sounds like they're pulling your leg. You shouldn't need any caulking on a roof with proper flashing. You need a second opinion.

Question: A friend recently mentioned in passing he thought some of the "flashing" on my roof looked as if it were in rough shape. Can you explain exactly what roof flashing is?

Answer: Flashing is just material—usually aluminum or galvanized steel—that's used over joints in roof and wall construction to prevent water seeping in and causing damage.
Depending on the style of your house's roof, you probably have it in the valleys, around the chimney and pipes, and around any dormer windows or skylights.
Most damage shows up either in flashing that's deteriorating due to weathering and oxidizing, or in flashing that has come loose.|I can't say for sure without seeing your roof,
but most flashing problems can be patched or repaired fairly easily. Professional roofers typically cut and shape their own flashing from sheet metal, but the most common
flashing pieces also come pre-formed and can be applied without much difficulty using caulking or roof cement.

https://powderbluetsunemori.wordpress.com/2015/10/30/real-life-qa-about-roofing-issues/

Check Out These Good Questions About Landscaping Design

Question: How do you decide which professional is best for your project?

Answer: The best way is to check them out. Ask for references, and contact them. Ask to see some of their work; if you cannot see it in person, then at least ask to see their portfolios. Keep an eye open for successful projects and find out who is responsible. Of course, a reference from a friend is helpful. You can arrange a site visit with a professional and find out if they provide consulting services. Whether or not a professional will charge for a visit depends on the company. If their time is paid for, they are likely to share all of the ideas they come up with while speaking with you. You can decide for yourself whether or not those ideas are to your way of thinking.

Question: Why should I work with a landscape designer?

Answer: Because a professional landscape designer spends their life thinking about the subject, they come to your garden filled with knowledge, creative ideas and imagination to develop a custom design that is uniquely suited to your home, lifestyle and personal preferences. Landscape design is challenging from an artistic, environmental, architectural, engineering and horticultural viewpoint.

Unlike other art forms, a garden is not a static creation, but a dynamic, evolving ecosystem that requires continued inputs and energy over time. Its creation requires careful thought on different levels: botanically (which plants to choose), spatially (where to put what), seasonally (how will it look year-round?) and temporally (what will it look like in ten years?). A landscape designer factors all these things in and then adds an element of style that provides the spirit of the garden. By spending time with a landscape designer to work through the design details during the planning phase, you will save money and time as it is less costly to consider the alternatives and change your mind on paper than it is during installation or after completion.

Landscape design consists of a process that culminates in the creation of a set of documents that become your blueprint and information source for the project. These documents will assist you in obtaining comparable bids from landscape contractors to fully develop your site either in a single project or in phases over time. A landscape designer will work with you to create this master plan, selecting the most appropriate materials & plants for your site and budget, developing solutions for specific problems on your property (i.e. privacy, noise, etc.), and finding the best people in the landscape industry to help bring the vision for your garden to reality.

Additional benefits of working with a landscape designer include assistance with quality control/site observation during installation, the opportunity to purchase plants at considerable savings from retail prices, and formation of a relationship with someone who can provide ongoing consultation as the garden changes and matures.

Question: I have lots of ideas. How will I be involved in the design process?

Answer: The objective is to help you take your ideas and grow them into the landscape of your dreams. To do so a designer works collaboratively to determine which services best suit your needs, budget and timetable, based on your goals for outdoor living space.

Question: What is the difference between a landscape designer, a landscape architect and a design-build landscaper?

Answer: Landscape design and landscape architecture are similar art forms. The ideal designer for your landscape will be the person most compatible with your taste, lifestyle and budget. In general, landscape design involves the design of residential or small commercial landscapes and gardens that require aesthetic and horticultural skills. Because training and expertise vary widely, it is important to look for a designer whose practice conforms to The Standards of Practice of the Association of Professional Landscape Designers (APLD).

Landscape architecture involves the application of more complex architecture and engineering solutions. Landscape architects have a degree in landscape architecture that typically includes limited horticulture education. They are licensed by the state and are qualified to develop construction-ready plans with construction details for complex retaining walls, decks, water features and drainage. The fees for their services are much higher than those for landscape designers.

Design-build landscape contractors typically implement the plans of landscape designers and architects. They may or may not have staff members with design or horticulture training.

Question: How much should I spend on landscaping?
Answer: Quality landscaping offers an excellent return on investment, ranking as one of the top home improvements. According to MONEY magazine story on home renovations, landscaping has a
recovery value of 100% to 200% if it is well done and harmonizes with foliage nearby. With housing values dropping in many areas, homeowners are seeking to enhance their home’s value with attractive, well-planned landscaping. According to a Michigan State University study, high quality landscaping adds 5 to 11% to the home’s price.

http://clubslow.blogspot.com/2015/10/some-interesting-questions-about_30.html

How To Ready Your House For A Professional Carpet Cleaner

Having your carpet, upholstery and/or hard surface cleaned by a professional carpet cleaning company? Here are some suggestions for you to prepare that will help both of you and them:

1. Please remove any small items such as dining room chairs, magazine racks, floor plants, etc. from any areas that are going to be cleaned.
2. Please remove all breakable items from furniture which will have to be temporarily moved, cleaned under, and placed back.
3. Please pin up any full-length draperies so that they will be at least 6 inches off the floor.
4. Please pin up any skirts on upholstered furniture, which may be touching the carpet.
5. Computer equipment, china cabinets, sectional sofas, entertainment centers, antique and fragile furniture cannot be moved. However, carpet underneath such items can be cleaned where sufficient room is available, or we can edge right around the base.
6. During the pre-inspection walk-through with your technicians, please advise them of any special requirements to follow when moving your furniture such as weak legs, loose tops or previous repairs.
7. Also, call attention to any spots or stains which may require special techniques.
8. Please put your pets in a safe, quiet place where the crew and the cleaning process won't disturb them.

A special note about odors:

1. The carpet cleaning technicians will do everything possible to reduce or eliminate pet odors. However, due to the depth of contamination, 100% success may not be attained. Also, for several days after cleaning you may notice an elevated odor due to higher humidity levels.
2. For safety sake, be sure to keep an extra close eye on your curious little ones.

Special After Care Information:

1. Please leave your plastic "tabs" and "blocks" under your furniture for 48 hours after cleaning.
2. As a safety precaution please do not let your children or pets crawl or lie down on the carpet until they are completely dry.
3. Please use extreme caution when walking from the damp carpet to any hard surface area.

http://clubslow.blogspot.com/2015/10/how-to-ready-your-home-for-professional.html

When Is My Home Ready For A New AC System?

When Is My House Ready For A New AC System?

Have a technician determine how efficiently your current system is running. A 13 SEER air conditioner is the minimum efficiency level now made in the U.S. If you’re running a unit with a lower level SEER, it may be time for you to consider unit replacement. If your air conditioning system is older than 7 years, it’s likely inefficient by today’s energy efficiency standards.

In 1992, the government established a minimum cooling efficiency standard of 10 SEER for units installed in new homes. Since January 23, 2006, all air conditioning equipment has a minimum efficiency standard set and mandated by the U.S. Department of Energy. It's often found that 10 SEER units (standard in homes built through 2005) operate at 6 to 8 SEER or less.
To improve efficiency, a homeowner can replace the unit or opt for an air conditioning tune-up, if the unit is in sound shape.

If your air conditioning unit has been breaking down frequently and resulting in the need for AC repair, you need an experienced technician to evaluate next steps. It’s quite possible the unit needs to be replaced. There a variety of options to help you determine what works best within your budget. Financing is also available. Whatever your requirements, a local AC repair company can provide the most sophisticated and advanced air conditioning products available today, combined with accurate and reliable central air installation services.

Energy Saving Green Products

Having energy saving equipment and fixtures in your home puts you on the fast track for going green. Here are some of our most popular items:

Lennox Air Conditioning & Heating Systems – Lennox Residential is a leading global name in home comfort. Lennox’ innovative solutions include energy-efficient air conditioners, furnaces and heat pumps, plus garage unit heaters, air handlers, comfort controls and indoor air quality systems.

Attic Tent® – The Attic Tent makes your pull-down attic stairs airtight, which saves energy and keeps attic dust out of the air you breathe.

Toto – The best in high-efficiency toilets, washlets, shower heads, and faucets.

American Standard high-efficiency AC and heating equipment – Save big on electricity.

Local Power Company
Energy tax credits may provide extra financial incentives. Look for available rebates from utility companies, manufacturers of AC/Heating and plumbing products, and the US government. Your local power company is a good place to start and can usually point you to the latest info on credits, rebates and other incentives in your area.

http://clubslow.blogspot.com/2015/10/when-is-my-house-ready-for-new-energy_30.html