Binoculars are primarily used for watching sporting events or watching birds. If you have broken binoculars, you can use the Redlich Binocular repair service to get your binoculars working again. Binoculars can cost more than $1,000, so replacing them can be more costly than getting them repaired. You can have your binoculars repaired by Redlich by sending them in through the mail. They will repair them and then send them back to you.
Instructions
1. Call Redlich and let them know that you have a pair of binoculars that need repair. They will be able to tell you whether or not they have the materials and parts to repair your binoculars.
2. Tell them that you will be sending your binoculars in for repair so they make any arrangements needed in order to repair your binoculars. They may need to order replacement parts for your unit.
3. Mail your binoculars into Redlich to the address on the company's website (see Resources). Package the binoculars carefully and include in the box a piece of paper with your name, address, phone number and a description of the problem with the binoculars.
4. Wait for Redlich to send you a written estimate on how long it will take to repair the binoculars and how much the repair will cost. Send the written consent back to Redlich with permission to repair the binoculars and a check to cover the cost of the repair.
Tags: your binoculars, Redlich Binocular, repair binoculars, repair your, repair your binoculars, They will
Hold your two-year-old's party at home or at a play center.
Your baby is turning into a toddler, and you want to celebrate right. While two-year-olds are still a little too young to grasp all that's going on around them and haven't become fully social yet, you can still throw a party they'll enjoy. Invite a few other toddlers your child knows from daycare or a playgroup, along with their parents too. Does this Spark an idea?
A Museum
A local museum targeted at children makes an ideal place for a party. Many museums already have exhibits and play areas to keep toddlers and other children entertained. Some museums, such as the Please Touch Museum in Philadelphia, offer access to a private party room for an hour. Thereafter, guests have admission to the museum for the rest of the day, so families with older children can enjoy the exhibits while you and your little one head home for a nap. Some museums include snacks and a small gift for the birthday child in their rental fees.
Your Backyard
A party at home, in your own backyard if the weather is nice, may the least expensive and least stressful option. Your two-year-old will be familiar with the space and less likely to melt down, plus you won't have to pay any rental fees. Guests can linger as long as they like. At a home party, you'll know for sure that the area is baby-proof, so your little guy and the guests won't get hurt. You may want to set up a fenced in area in the backyard so guests don't wander off.
Play Center
Hold the party at a toddler-friendly play center or a day care center designed to keep toddlers safe and happy. You may be able to hire a guide to keep an eye on the young guests and to come up with play activities for them. Also, you won't have to worry about cleaning up after the two-year-olds at the end of the day.
Toddler-Friendly Restaurant
If your baby's a budding foodie, consider throwing his birthday party at a local restaurant. Contact your family's favorite restaurant to see whether they have private rooms available and would be willing to host a toddler's birthday party. Ask whether the restaurant serves food your baby will eat and that other young guests will enjoy too. You may be able to bring in your own birthday cake, or the restaurant may require that you order a cake there; check before booking to make sure.
Tags: birthday party, keep toddlers, party home, play center, rental fees, Some museums, young guests
Any patch of rust on a car body is a problem that should be addressed quickly. The dings from rocks, curbs, road salt and snow driving all penetrate protective paint and let rust develop, weakening metal and spreading if left unaddressed. Inspect your car body frequently, to catch rust at the pinhole stage. The smaller the spots, the easier the repair. Larger spots will require professional help, tools and paints. This basic repair method can be done at home and applies to other rust-prone objects: yard tools, bikes and appliances.
Instructions
1. Don protective gear. You are working with metal dust and chemicals. Protect your hands, eyes and breathing from possible danger.
2. Sand off visible rust. This can be done by hand for very small spots; use a power sander to remove a rash of spots. If possible, sand both sides of the metal where rust has occurred. Pinhole rust can penetrate metal completely. (The word pinhole describes both the size of the spot and the damage it can do.) Attacking the problem as soon as you see it lets you remove spots while they are still fairly close to the surface.
3. Wash the sanded area thoroughly with a grease-cutting detergent, rinse and dry. Then apply epoxy filler with a putty knife to rust spots and the surrounding area. Let dry and sand smooth.
4. Apply rust-resistant primer. Let dry thoroughly. Then apply auto paint (small quantities can be found in auto-supply stores) either with the applicator provided or spray. For tool handles or bike parts, hardware stores usually stock suitable paints. Cover the entire area sanded down with both primer and finishing coat and feather it to blend with existing paint. Extending the new painted area slightly beyond your sanded area will help retard further rust development; don't skimp with coverage.
5. Make it a practice to inspect rust-vulnerable car and tool surfaces frequently, to head off small problems before they become large and destructive. Seams where metal joins metal are particularly prone to rust accumulation. Do an additional wipe-down on your car after visiting the car wash, and wipe tools dry after every use.
If your house is several years old, it is probably time to make some major improvements. Updating items such as flooring, countertops and plumbing fixtures adds monetary and personal value to a house, but can be very costly. Here's get a home improvement loan and begin converting your house into your dream home.
Instructions
1. Figure out what work needs to be done and have contractors provide estimates for completion. Determine the total cost of the remodel to determine how much money to borrow.
2. Gather documents and data required by lenders. Essential items include tax forms for the previous year or two, a credit history, employment verification documents, proof of supplementary income such as social security benefits, debt to income ratio and proof of income such as pay stubs.
3. Request a free credit report, which you are entitled to once per year according to federal law, and review it carefully. If you notice any discrepancies, file a dispute with the appropriate credit agencies.
4. Shop lenders for interest rates and reputation. Make sure to choose a reliable lender with an established history. If the terms of a loan look too good to be true, they probably are. If you apply for a loan online, make sure that your information is secure to avoid identity theft or personal monetary losses.
5. Decide between a home equity loan and a line of credit for home improvement. Both types of loans function as second mortgages, but the former loan is a lump sum of money to be repaid at a fixed interest rate, and the latter acts much like a credit card, with a revolving balance and repayment primarily on the principle at a variable interest rate.
6. Read all of the fine print before signing a loan agreement. If you have questions or concerns regarding the terms of a loan, consult an attorney or find another lender. The fees associated with professional advice or time to restart the lending process pale in comparison to becoming a fraud victim.
7. Make sure you can make the monthly payments on your second mortgage. If you default on your loan, you can lose your home. Spend time creating a budget to determine your monthly expenses before securing a loan.
Tags: Home Improvement, Improvement Loan, income such, interest rate, terms loan
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), home health aides held roughly 787,000 jobs in 2006, with most employed by home health care services, nursing and residential care facilities, and social assistance agencies.
Duties
Home health aides generally help elderly, convalescent or disabled persons living in their own homes. Aides check pulses, temperatures, and respiration rates; aid with prescribed exercises; and help patients with everyday activities. Experienced aides may also assist with medical equipment.
Agencies
The term "home health agency" generally indicates the provider is Medicare certified, and has met federal minimum requirements for patient care and management. Because of those regulations, care given by aides is highly monitored and controlled.
Licensure and Certification
Medicare-certified agencies are given guidelines for home health aides as a result of receiving Medicare reimbursement. Federal law states that aides employed by these agencies must pass a competency test.
Earnings
The median hourly wage of home health aides in May 2006, according to the BLS, was $9.34. Aides may receive pay increases with more experience and responsibility. Travel expenses typically are not covered.
Outlook
The demand for home health aides is expected to grow 49 percent by 2016, according to the BLS. High turnover in this industry stems from the relatively low salaries, the demanding nature of the job and little room for career development.
Tags: health aides, home health aides, home health, home health
Caring for an elderly person does not come without challenges. Some seniors are vital and active right up until they succumb to natural causes of death, while others experience health problems for years. Seniors also have a host of daily living issues to contend with. Finances, navigating a complicated medical-insurance system and driving are some obstacles that become more difficult as one gets on in years.
What to expect when caring for an aging senior
The first step in caring for a senior is finding a doctor that specializes in the needs of older adults. One geriatrician at University Hospitals in Cleveland, Ohio says that elders take more time to evaluate than young patients. Most general practitioners do not have that kind of time. A specialist will look at how the person takes care of himself: Is he able to wash properly? Can he cook adequately and buy groceries? Can he pay his bills and drive?
Why seniors need to be cared for
It's difficult to imagine aging parents as old and helpless. Knowing when to talk to a senior about the future can be stressful. Presently, she appears to be in good health, and you'll want it to stay that way forever. You want her to be able to live on her own and drive wherever she needs to go. You want her to be financially independent and able to keep up her lifestyle until the end. And the last thing you ever want to think about is "the end." For any person, especially a senior, good health is not a given. Regardless of how healthy your loved one has been, she is just one fall or one illness away from crisis.
Well-being is more than just physical health
It's a fact that our physical health will deteriorate as we age. Scientists are finding unquestioned links between physical and mental well-being. The MacArthur Study of Successful Aging evaluated physical and cognitive functioning among healthy volunteers between the ages of 70 and 79. The subjects were followed for an average of seven years. Researchers found that those who engaged in regular physical activity were half as likely to show a decline in physical health as those who were inactive. There is no lack of activities for this age group. From volunteering to adult day-care centers, seniors can always stay active and connected to friends and family.
When it's time to get more help
There's nothing wrong with asking for help. Anyone who has ever cared for an aging person will agree. There are more options for geriatrics than ever before. Government websites, nonprofit organizations and senior advocacy groups have cropped up in recent years offering suggestions and solutions for every level of care required. Companionship programs offer daily telephone calls from a "buddy," daily visitors and 24-7 paid companions. For a less mobile person, respite care offers a paraprofessional to take over the caregiving role for as long as needed. Brief breaks from providing treatment are healthy for the patient and caregiver. Independent care facilities offer a thriving residential setting with on- and off-site recreation. More attention, like housekeeping assistance and transportation, is offered to the less-ambulatory person.
Resources for helping the caretaker
It's not easy caring for any dependent, regardless of age. You become responsible for life-changing decisions. Choosing what is best for an aging loved one does not have to rest on the shoulders of just one person. Doctors, social workers and websites are available for consultation. Before deciding whether any senior should go to day-care or hospice care, professionals can evaluate their mental and physical health. Websites provide data and experienced social workers can direct you to accredited facilities and medical providers.
Tags: physical health, good health, social workers
Replacing a pane of glass is often the best repair option.
Glass windows let you see the world around you while keeping out the heat, the cold, insects and wind. However, glass is breakable, and an errant baseball or hailstorm can leave you with a broken pane of glass. When this happens, your window can let in the cold, the heat or the rain. In addition, a broken window can be a safety hazard. The best approach for fixing a broken window is to replace the entire pane of glass. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Don safety goggles and heavy work gloves when working with glass. Cover the area under the window on both sides as well as surrounding panes with newspaper to protect the areas from broken glass and make cleanup easier.
2. Carefully remove all pieces of broken glass, and dispose of them in a trash can. If necessary, use a wet/dry vacuum to get out the small shards; make sure you empty the vacuum immediately after you finish this project to ensure that no one else uses it with the glass in there.
3. Scrape away all glue, glazing, putty and other contaminants from the mullions, or pieces of wood, surrounding the pane. Any paint pieces or debris prevent the pane from sitting level. If any of the putty is too stiff to scrape away, soften the material with a heat gun or soak it with linseed oil, and scrape again. Continue until all debris is gone.
4. Pry out any old glazing points from the window frame with needle-nose pliers. These points are small metal pieces that help hold the glass steady in the frame. You will add new ones later.
5. Wipe down the wood with a rag dampened in mineral spirits to remove any residual dirt and dust. Lightly sand the wood with fine-grit sandpaper, and paint on a thin layer of wood sealant to help protect the new glass from moisture. Allow the sealant to dry completely before continuing.
6. Spread a rope of adhesive putty around the exterior of the mullion with a putty knife. Flatten it as much as possible against the mullion, and make sure you get a smooth, even layer so that the pane sits flat.
7. Set the pane of glass in place over the putty so that it rests against the tabs of the surrounding mullions. When the pane is completely flat, drive the glazing points into the surrounding frame with the flat edge of your putty knife, installing a point every 4 to 6 inches along the pane to help secure it in place.
8. Recoat the edges of the pane and frame with putty or sealing glaze, again working in a thin layer to create a flat seal. Scrape away any excess with the putty knife. When the top layer dries, paint it to match the frame to help the repair blend in.
Seniors in Tennessee may be eligible for a home improvement grant.
The state of Tennessee provides home improvement grants to low-income and senior households. These grant and low-interest loan programs help low-income families make emergency repairs to their homes or modifications to make their homes handicap accessible. Grants are also available to make energy-efficient improvements to homes. You must meet the income-limit level requirements to qualify for help.
Weatherization Assistance Program
The state of Tennessee provides weatherization services to income-qualified households. Weatherization work helps to lower utility bills through energy-efficient upgrades. Eligible weatherization services include caulking, installing insulation and storm windows. Families with income at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level are eligible for help. The Department of Energy estimates weatherization services help families save $437 annually. Federal guidelines state low-income families can receive up to $6,500 to have their homes weatherized.
Emergency Repair Program
The Tennessee Housing Development Agency provides $2 million statewide to fund the Emergency Repair Program. Seniors over the age of 60 are eligible to apply for a home repair grant. The maximum grant award is $10,000. The grant money can go toward making immediate repairs to a roof or to electrical or plumbing systems. An eligible home must be a senior's primary place of residence. The homeowner's income cannot exceed 60 percent of the area's median income to qualify for help. Homeowners are also required to provide a 50 percent matching contribution from their own resources.
Department of Agriculture Rural Repair Program
The U.S. Department of Agriculture helps income-qualified families in Tennessee make home repairs. Direct loans and grants are provided to families who live in areas with populations of 20,000 or less. Elderly and disabled homeowners can also use the funding to make their homes more accessible. Affordable housing landlords can apply for funding to make repairs or modifications to their rental units. The rental units must house families that meet income level requirements for the landlord to get help with repairs.
Metropolitan Development and Housing Agency
Residents in Nashville can apply for one of several home repair programs offered through the Metropolitan Development and Housing Agency. Emergency repair grants up to $2,000 are provided to homeowners who are aged 55 and older or handicapped. The family's income cannot exceed $21,250 to qualify for help. Rehab loans up to $36,000 are provided to low-income families. Financing is used toward bringing a home up to housing code standards. Affordable housing property owners can qualify for a 3 percent loan up to $75,000 to make repairs to their rental properties. Tenants must be low-income households for the owners to qualify for financing.
The auto repair business is one that can be lucrative, but only for the shops that work to separate themselves from their competitors and retain the loyalty of their mechanics and customers. Growing your auto repair business into a success doesn't necessarily involve spending a great deal of time or funds, but it does require that you evaluate your policies and implement certain changes.
Instructions
1. Refuse to operate unethically or dishonestly, and make sure your employees stand by your practices. Auto repair shops have a shady reputation among consumers, and refusing to price gouge, overcharge and suggest unneeded repairs will help separate your business from others.
2. Establish a service guarantee and offer it to all customers. Since most car repairs are expensive, customers that receive a service guarantee will have peace of mind that they are getting their money's worth, and they won't have to spend more in case you don't do the job right the first time.
3. Retain your mechanics and offer them quality training to not only improve your service, but employee morale. Working as a mechanic often means long hours servicing anxious, worried and upset customers, so try to make their job as rewarding as possible. Customers also prefer to take their car to the same mechanic rather than constantly having to switch to a different technician.
4. Care about your customer’s complaints and do your best to resolve them--this will differentiate your auto shop, as most are not known for their customer service quality. Whether it's a complaint about faulty work, prices or a long wait time, take your customer's suggestions and try to implement changes whenever necessary. Even if the customer is being unreasonable, thank them for their suggestions and welcome their future comments and questions.
5. Offer incentives to keep customers coming back. This doesn't necessarily mean lowering prices, but offering extras such as a children's play area, free coffee in your waiting room, a television for waiting customers or loyalty coupons for repeat customers.
Tags: auto repair, auto repair business, doesn necessarily, repair business, service guarantee, your auto
Does one of your DVDs refuse to play in your DVD player? Deep scratches on DVDs aren't always repairable; but smaller scratches can be fixed a number of ways so you can save the money from having to purchase a new DVD. Follow these steps to fix a scratch on a DVD.
Instructions
1. Make sure that the problem isn't as simple as a dirty disc. Even a piece of hair or some dust can make a CD or DVD unreadable. Clean the disc with a soft cloth to remove any debris that could be causing the disc to fail.
2. Examine the disc visually. See if you can identify the scratch or scuff that needs to be fixed. If the scratch is one that goes up and down from the center of the disc toward the rim, it can probably be fixed. Scratches that run along the disc itself are much more damaging and difficult to repair.
3. Clean the disc using toothpaste. Many people have done this and it does work. The idea is to get some of the excess plastic out of the way to make the scratches less severe. Be careful that you don't damage the disc more! Toothpaste can be abrasive.
4. Consider borrowing or purchasing a CD refinisher if the problem continues. Disc repairers like Disc Doctor can do wonders for scratched DVDs. Follow the instructions for the disc refinisher that you choose to repair the scratches. You may need to use the refinisher more than once.
5. Try waxing the disc when all else fails. Vaseline works nicely, but it's a temporary solution. Go to a computer and make a copy of the disc if you use this method to get it working again.
Vietnam veterans are provided one particular benefit that is related to the Vietnam war. Understanding this benefit can help veterans gain compensation for certain illnesses. However, there are other benefits that are common to all veterans and their dependents. It is pertinent to be aware of the changes to policies and what can be afforded to you and family members.
Agent Orange
The Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) provides wide-range support and compensation for illnesses related to Agent Orange, a chemical used widely during the Vietnam war. Agent Orange has been related to the onset of chronic lymphocytic leukemia, diabetes, Hodgkin's and several other illnesses. Vietnam veterans do not have to prove that the disease is related to their time in the service (see Resources).
Burial
VA will reimburse burial costs of up to $2,000 and plot costs of up to $300. VA will provide the headstone, burial flag and memorial certificate in a national or private cemetery.
Vehicle Grants
Grants for a new or used vehicle of up to $11,000 are available for veterans with loss of limb or permanent visibility impairment. This grant is only issued once to the veteran.
Dependents and Survivor Benefits
A dependent of a disabled or dead veteran is eligible for benefits towards a college degree, training and certificates. Dependency and Indemnity Compensation is available to surviving spouses and children. This compensation is tax-free.
Home Loan
VA loans are no down payment loans that can be used to refinance, purchase, rebuild or improve a home. VA guarantees up to 25 percent of the home loan. It protects the lender from loss on the guaranteed portion. Homeless veterans can benefit from a 50 percent discount off of VA foreclosure-purchased homes.
Health Care
VA provides all health care for Vietnam veterans, with possible of co-pays. Veterans injured while on duty have priority and are not charged for health care. Veterans can use Champva to pay for the majority of their family members' care (see Resources).
Tags: Agent Orange, Benefits Vietnam, Benefits Vietnam Veterans, family members, health care, veterans with
Asphalt cracks need to be repaired quickly before they turn into holes.
Asphalt paving is made up of little rock chips, sand and liquid asphalt cement, according to Ask the Builder. It's a popular material for driveways because it is affordable and durable. An aphalt driveway that has been installed correctly and properly maintained can last for 30 years or more. However, sunlight, moisture, and freezing and thawing causes cracks in asphalt. If the cracks are left unrepaired, they turn into bigger problems--potholes. It's not difficult to repair the cracks with some filler and a few tools. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Clean the cracks. Use a chisel or a wire brush to remove loose, larger pieces of asphalt and debris from the cracks. Sweep any remaining debris and dirt out of the cracks with a broom. Clean the dust from the cracks by spraying them with a garden hose, according to Aubuchon Hardware.
2. Fill the cracks up with asphalt crack filler so the filler is level with the surrounding surface. Some fillers are liquid that is squeezed from a bottle, some are squeezed from a cartridge in a caulking gun and others are ropes of filler that you lay down and push into the cracks.
3. Push the asphalt filler down into the cracks with the end of a trowel. Add more filler if needed. Level the repairs. Allow them to dry thoroughly (according to the manufacturer's directions) before you use the driveway.
Tags: cracks with, from cracks, into cracks, squeezed from, they turn, they turn into
The tire sensor light notifies you of low air pressure in one of your vehicles tires. While auto manufacturers recommend checking and adjusting your tire pressure every two weeks, the reality is most people don't do so. Failure to keep your tire pressure set properly leads to poor fuel mileage, abbreviated tire life and if left too long, accidents. The latter concern led to Federal regulations for tire pressure monitoring systems. If the light is on, you need to check and adjust your tire pressures immediately. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Open your driver's door and locate the tire pressure information on the VIN sticker. The VIN sticker is usually on the trailing edge of the door, but sometimes you'll find it inside the door frame. Some cars, trucks and SUVs also have the tire pressure information printed on a sticker inside the fuel door.
2. Check the tire pressure on each tire using a digital tire pressure gauge.
3. Set the tire pressures to the specified tire pressure per your vehicle's VIN sticker using the air hose connected to a compressed air source.
4. Drive the vehicle for 5 miles after setting the tire pressures and the light will turn off once the system checks the pressures and notes the tires are at the proper pressure.
Tags: tire pressure, tire pressures, your tire, pressure information, pressure your, tire pressure information
The 1997 Ford Aerostar was the last model of the Aerostar minivan that Ford Motor Co. produced. The minivan came equipped with either a 3.0- or 4.0-liter engine that could output up to 152 horsepower at 4,750 revolutions per minute. If you happen to have a blown gasket, you need to replace the component for your vehicle to work properly. There are various causes of a blown head gasket including dirty bolts, wrong gasket design for the minivan or an overheated engine.
Instructions
1. Wait until your minivan is cold before you start working on replacing the head gasket in the 1997 Ford Aerostar. Take the cable from the battery. Drain the coolant from the vehicle in a clean sealable container. You can reuse the coolant from the vehicle.
2. Lift the front of the minivan with a floor jack and support the Aerostar with jack stands. Take off the resonator assembly. Place the vehicle back to the ground. Mark and ticket the component under the hood, such as the distributor cap, spark plugs and distributor.
3. Continue to label and tag all the parts under the hood. Disconnect or take off the upper engine parts, including the vacuum hoses, dipstick, rocker arm cover, intake manifold, the pulley belt, radiator hose, timing belt, timing belt cover, exhaust manifold and all connectors.
4. Take the cylinder head bolts off the vehicle and discard. Clean the surface of the head gasket mating at the block, intake manifold gasket facade and the cylinder head. Get the oil out of the cylinder head bolt holes with compressed air. Put the new head gasket in place and sit the cylinder in position.
5. Put the new bolts in place in a two-step pattern. Torque to 50 to 60 foot-pounds on the first round and 80 to 90 foot-pounds on the second round. Connect all wires, plugs, connectors and assemblies back to the minivan. Consult a Ford Aerostar repair manual for the torque measurements for the other bolts on the vehicle.
6. Look at the cylinder head for wear and examine the warpage. The warpage should measure below 0.0020 inches. Position the new gasket facing upward. Return new cylinder head bolts in a three-step process: Tighten bolts at 22 foot-pounds, 43 foot-pounds and 47 foot-pounds.
7. Return the rest of the Subaru parts in the opposite of order of removing the parts. Check a repair manual fro the particular Subaru you have for the appropriate torque specification for the other bolts.
8. Return the engine block parts back in the opposite of original factory installation. Review a Subaru service manual for the right bolt torque.
Tags: cylinder head, Ford Aerostar, 1997 Ford, 1997 Ford Aerostar, head gasket, bolts vehicle
Many smokers enjoy glass pipes, as they allow tobacco flavors and aromas to circulate unencumbered for maximum enjoyment. Glass pipes don't introduce any added flavor such as a wood pipe would. Glass pipes are also much easier to clean and can withstand extreme heat. You can make your own glass pipe at home.
Instructions
1. Pull the point of the 50-millimeter base wall glass piece away from the torch flame.
2. Put the 50-millimeter base wall piece of glass into the torch slowly so that the glass does not crack. Keep the glass hot and spinning the whole time or it may crack from the temperature difference. Spin the glass piece using your fingers until it is glowing red hot. Make sure to keep your arms and shoulders steady to keep the glass heating evenly. Once the glass reaches a soupy consistency on the edge where you are warming it, keep your arms steady and gently pull it.
3. Turn the glass piece upside down so that the bottom piece of glass hangs. Allow gravity to assist you in stretching the bottom glass piece from the top base piece.
4. Adjust your torch flame to a cutting tip.
5. Cut the glass piece at the edge where the glass strand meets the base wall glass piece.
6. Cut a hole in the end of the second piece of glass tube by placing the tip into the torch flame. This will give you a glass tube with which to blow your glass pipe.
7. Round the end of the glass tube that you are using for your pipe by turning it in the flame of the torch on the cut edge to smooth it out.
8. Hang the glass piece once it starts getting thicker with a bubble to allow gravity to straighten the tube out. Blow in the end of the tube so that the end of the glass tube becomes rounded. Put the glass piece back into the torch and allow it to be positioned at an opposite angle.
9. Allow the pipe to cool slightly and blow a few light breaths into it.
10. Allow the bubble to continue forming in the end of the glass piece while turning it in the torch flame.
11. Allow the glass piece to cool slightly and blow a few breaths into it to make the end of the pipe more round.
12. Warm the 6-millimeter piece of glass in the torch flame while warming the tip of the base glass piece.
13. Insert the 6-millimeter glass piece into the base glass piece center on the rounded part and press it through. This allows you a place to hold the glass even while it is in the torch flame.
14. Align the glass piece in the torch flame in the specific spot you would like the mouthpiece to be and turn it while staying away from the glass tube.
15. Turn the pipe while the glass is thickening into a glob-like consistency. Take the glass pipe away from the flame torch and hang it upside down while allowing gravity to pull the pipe to make a stem for the glass piece.
16. Allow the pipe to cool while pulling it away from the torch so that it does not form ripples on the outside.
17.Break the 6-millimeter piece of glass off the end of the base glass piece.
18. Round the edge of the glass piece where you broke off the 6-millimeter piece of glass by turning it in the torch flame.
19. Choose an even side of the glass piece to make a bowl and apply the glass piece to the torch flame at the end where your bowl will be. Continue to rotate the glass piece in the flame. Set the torch to cut.
20. Place your punching piece into the glass piece and allow it to sink for about two seconds. Remove the punching piece and put the glass piece back in the torch flame.
21. Take the glass piece out of the flame and use the punching piece again to form the bowl of the glass piece.
22. Put a flat side directly on the opposite side of the bowl to allow for the glass piece to sit steady when laying on a flat surface. Put the glass piece in the torch flame on the side you are using as the flat side to heat it up.
23. Take the pipe out of the flame and press the side onto a flat metal material to press the flat side into the pipe.
24. Make a carburetor on the glass piece by heating up the side of the glass piece next to the bowl and, using a punching tool, punch a small hole in the side. Place the metal punching tool in the bowl of the pipe to give resistance so that the bowl won't warp when melting the side for the carburetor hole.
25. Use tongs to hold the pipe upside down by the bowl, and keep them clamped while turning the glass in the torch. Heat the glass at the appropriate location where you want the stem of the pipe to start. Turn the glass while heating to soften it so it can be pulled apart. Keep the flame at the end of the stem to warm it up and use a punching tool to make a hole in the stem so that smoke can be sucked through. Keep rotating the glass piece in the torch flame to ensure that it is warmed correctly and rounded out evenly. Place the glass piece in a curing oven when you're finished cutting it.
Leaky faucets and clogged drains are common bathtub plumbing problems that homeowners can repair themselves.
Bathtub plumbing wears out over time and use, resulting in costly problems if the repairs are not addressed appropriately or in a timely fashion. Leaky faucets and inoperable drains are perhaps the most common bathtub plumbing problems. This minor bathtub plumbing repairs can be made by homeowners with some basic plumbing knowledge, while more advanced repairs, such as those that involve the plumbing pipes, are best left to professional plumbers. Bathtub plumbing repair parts can be purchased at home improvement stores and plumbing supply stores. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
Bathtub Faucet Repair
1. Turn off the water supply to the bathtub faucet. In most cases, water supply valves are located in the access area behind the bathtub faucet wall. If there are no direct shut-off valves to the bathtub, turn off the main water supply to the house.
2. Pry out the faucet handle screw caps with a screwdriver.
3. Remove the handle screws and slide the handles off of the faucet stems. Use a faucet handle removal tool if you cannot remove the handles with a screwdriver.
4. Unscrew the stem collars and slide them off of the stems.
5. Slide the escutcheon plates off of the faucet stems. Escutcheon plates are round cover plates, usually made of chrome, that are used to conceal the bathtub holes for handles, spouts and shower heads.
6. Unscrew the stems with an adjustable wrench. Plumber's sockets are required for recessed stems.
7. Remove the screw that holds the washer to the stem and remove the old washer. Slide the old packing -- a flat, round ring that is usually gray -- off of the stem.
8. Install a new packing onto the stem; slide it all the way up where the stem meets the faucet.
9. Install a new rubber washer onto the stem and drive the washer screw in with a screwdriver.
10. Screw the stem back into the faucet, put the escutcheon plates onto the stems, screw the stem collars onto the stems and hand-tighten the collars.
11. Slide the handles onto the stems and drive the handle screws into the stems with a screwdriver. Snap the handle screw covers back into the handles.
Clogged Drain
12. Unscrew the drain plug to remove it. Stubborn plugs require slip-groove pliers to remove.
13. Pull any visible hair and debris from the drain with your hand. This can be a messy task, so wear rubber gloves.
14. Run a hand-crank 1/4-inch bathtub drain snake down the drain hole, turning it clockwise.
15. Pull the drain snake cable back and repeat the process several times until the blockage is cleared.
16. Remove the bathtub overflow cover screws with a screwdriver and then slide the cover off. The overflow cover is a round plate, located just a few inches under the tub spout.
17.Run the drain snake cable down through the over flow several times to remove any blockages. This also aids in air flow to the bathtub drain.
18. Install the overflow cover and drive the overflow screws in with a screwdriver.
19. Screw the drain plug into the drain turning it clockwise, hand tighten the drain plug.
Tags: with screwdriver, drain plug, drain snake, onto stems, overflow cover, water supply
The motherboard is the interior part of the computer that is essentially the laptop's main brain. Although a malfunctioning laptop motherboard may seem like a lost cause to a laptop owner, there are ways to fix motherboards without needing to pay professionals hundreds of dollars to repair them. One of the most sure signs that the motherboard needs repair is if the power button on the laptop is pressed, but nothing happens.
Instructions
1. Shut down the computer if it is not already shut down. Even if the computer is turned off, make sure that the power cord is also unplugged from the laptop.
2. Remove the side panel. The side panel is often held in place with a few screws. Simply unscrew the screws and pull firmly on the panel outward to remove it.
3. Touch a piece of metal somewhere other than the computer. Motherboards are very susceptible to static charges. Any kind of static shock could make the motherboard malfunction even more seriously. Make sure you have no static on you before you start to work on the interior of the computer.
4. Find the large plug that connects the motherboard to the power supply unit. This plug is hard to miss. It likely has either 20 or 24 pins. Lightly tug on and then push the plug back into place simply to make sure the connection is tight.
5. Check other plugs to make sure they are also tight. Any loose plug could inhibit the amount of power the motherboard receives. Also check to see how the RAM sticks have been inserted. The sticks should be snugly connected with little or no wiggle. If there is a wiggle, make sure the tabs are fastened.
6. Place the side panel back where it belongs, and secure it with screws. Plug the laptop in and press the power button. There is a good chance that your motherboard will now be functioning properly and the power button will work.
Tags: make sure, power button, side panel, with screws
A home maintenance technician repairs problems within residences.
Home maintenance workers take a hands-on approach to solving problems. These workers are frequently known as the jack-of-all-trades compared to their other specialized construction counterparts. When confronted with a leaky faucet or broken air conditioner, a home maintenance worker pulls from a wide base of knowledge and fixes the issue. Home maintenance workers are a type of maintenance and repair worker.
Responsibilities
According to the Occupational Information Network, home maintenance workers are versatile in their maintenance skills. These workers have two or more maintenance or craft skills. Home maintenance workers repair machines, mechanical equipment or the overall structure of the establishment. Duties include pipefitting, insulating, welding, boiler making, carpentry, machining, repairing mechanical or electrical equipment, installing equipment and repairing buildings.
Environment and Hours
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, home maintenance workers can be found indoors and outdoors. These workers can be called at an individual basis for private residences or be employed for an apartment or condominium complex. Most general maintenance workers have a 40-hour workweek. Some are on-call for emergencies and also work nights and weekends.
Education and Training
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employers typically seek those with a high school degree or GED. Maintenance workers can learn their skills informally on-the-job as helpers to workers, such as electricians, carpenters and other construction workers. On-the-job training takes several months to a full year, depending on the skill-level achieved. Certification is available from the International Management Institute for various levels of employees, from entry-level to those seeking an advanced position. In order to become certified, applicants must meet several training or educational prerequisites and pass an examination.
Earnings
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, maintenance and repair workers earned a national mean hourly wage of $17.56 and a national mean annual wage of $36,520 in May 2009. The industries that employed the highest number of maintenance and repair workers were lessors of real estate with a mean annual wage of $31,550; the local government, $38,400; activities related to real estate, $32,760; traveler accommodation, $30,400; and elementary and secondary schools, $38,360. Home maintenance workers are likely to be found in industries involving residential clients, such as lessors of real estate or activities related to real estate.
Outlook
According to the National Employment Matrix from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for general maintenance and repair workers are expected to increase at a rate of 11 percent through 2018. Job prospects will be excellent, especially for those with hands-on experience in maintenance or any other related field. Those who have certification will have even better opportunities. General maintenance and repair is a large occupation that generates many job openings due to the need to replace workers who retire or leave the occupation.
Tags: maintenance repair, Bureau Labor, Bureau Labor Statistics, Labor Statistics, maintenance workers, real estate
When faced with the task of cleaning and restoring log homes, property owners often consider sanding the logs to remove stains and restore the beauty of older wood. While hand sanding or sanding with a mechanical sander can renew the finish, proceed with extreme caution as sanding can damage the logs. Many fine old log structures have been severely damaged by excessive sanding or other failed do-it-yourself methods. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Consult a log home restoration professional to evaluate the condition of the home. Modern technology that employs media blasting (applying under pressure) of soda, glass, corn cobs or walnut husks will lightly abrade the log surface, removing old stain and finishes. Blasting is preferable to sanding and is the "high-tech" way to achieve a smooth finish. Blasting is much gentler and kinder to the underlying wood than sanding. (Log blasting equipment can be rented from log home contractors or you can employ their services for a professional-quality job.) Sanding strips away wood that can not be replaced and can be time consuming and labor intensive.
2. Examine the logs carefully. Logs are easily cleaned with soap and water. Mix 1 cup of organic, bio-degradable soap and 1 quart household bleach with 5 gallons of water. Scrub the logs with the mixture, starting at the top of the wall and working down. Use a soft bristle brush. Rinse well and allow to air dry. Scrubbing and rinsing will remove pollen, dust, debris and most stains.
3. Use a pressure washer to clean logs. Use a low pressure setting (350 psi) to remove surface soil. Commercial cleaning additives are available from home and building supply centers and log home contractors. Rinse well and allow to air dry completely prior to refinishing or staining.
4. Use a belt sander with100-grit sandpaper to sand rough or slivered spots on logs as required. Choose a narrow design sander for filing and sanding in confined areas. Always sand in the direction of the grain of the wood. Employ a small, triangular finishing sander with fine grit (100-grit) sandpaper to smooth the edges of cat-eyes, burls, or window and door trim.
5. Select a grinder-style sanding tool with abrasive discs (circular sanding discs) to smooth and profile openings and log ends. The ends of logs may require sanding prior to sealing. Log end act as straws, sucking up moisture. Seal ends with a commercial sealer designed for this purpose, following product manufacturer's label instructions.
Tags: 100-grit sandpaper, from home, home contractors, Rinse well, Rinse well allow, Sand Homes, sander with
Greening disease is a threat to Phoenix citrus trees.
Citrus greening disease is caused by a bacteria carried by the Asian citrus psyllid. As of July 2010, the disease had not identified in Arizona. Several psyllids, however, have been trapped near Phoenix. Does this Spark an idea?
The Spread of Greening Disease
Greening disease has not yet been detected in Phoenix. Some industry experts say it is inevitable that the disease will show up there-given the spread of the disease throughout the southern United States and Mexico.
Backyard Growers
When the disease reaches Phoenix, area homeowners may lose their backyard citrus trees. They will have no option but to cut down and destroy the trees.
Citrus Industry
Greening disease will not wipe out the citrus industry in Arizona. The cost of growing citrus, however, will become more expensive with efforts to eradicate the disease, which in turn will result in higher market prices for citrus fruits.
Quarantine
Phoenix merchants, distributors and growers cannot purchase citrus from Yuma County, the state’s largest citrus producer, because it is under quarantine due to the presence of the Asian citrus pysllid. Citrus trees from quarantined areas in or out of Arizona cannot be transported into Phoenix.
Prevention
There is no cure for greening disease. The only way to prevent it from reaching Phoenix is to not move host plants from diseased areas into the city, and even that may not be 100 percent effective.
Tags: Asian citrus, disease will, Greening Disease, Greening disease, trees Citrus
When entering your own driveway is like running a slalom course, it's time to fix that pothole. Water trapped below the surface can cause potholes, so it is important to improve the underground drainage before finishing off the top surface. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Rake or shovel out any loose stones, gravel or soil from the bottom of the pothole.
2. If the sides of the pothole are loose, cut them straight down with a shovel to create firm edges to the hole.
3. Fill the hole with coarse gravel to about 3 inches (7 cm) below the level of the driveway (see A).
4. Tamp down the gravel. You can make your own wooden tamping tool from a small square of 3/4-inch (2-cm) plywood nailed to the bottom end of a 4-foot-long (120-cm) 2-by-4.
5. For a dirt driveway: Shovel soil into the hole until it is mounded a few inches (about 7 cm) above the surface.
6. Water the soil, and tamp it down as firmly as you can.
7. If necessary, add enough soil to raise it a little above the driveway surface again, and tamp it down again.
8. For a gravel driveway: Fill the last 3 inches (7 cm) with gravel that matches the driveway. Mound it just above the surface.
9. Rake the new gravel to blend with the rest of the driveway (see B).
10. For either type of driveway: Run a wheel of your car over the spot a few times to compact it down.
The thought of a fire scares most home and business owners. Dealing with the aftereffects of smoke and fire damage is a daunting task. It is important to get rid of the odor and fire residue for breathing safety and to salvage your belongings. While it is difficult, minor damage repair is something you can do yourself. Fires that damage the building structure require evaluation for safety and some more extensive restoration methods. Does this Spark an idea?
Residue and Water Cleanup
If fire extinguishers left a residue, sweep or wipe up the hardened residue. Remove any water-damaged rugs, furniture or personal items after fire department hosing. Wash and dry wet clothing and fabrics. It is important to wash them first even though they're already wet in order to get rid of the smoke odors. Put furnishings outside and hang large fabric items like rugs outside to dry out. Sweep, vacuum or scrape up any soot or debris before attempting to restore other areas of the building. Leftover ash and soot from a fire will keep on producing odors and smoke long after a fire is out.
Material Cleaning
Wash all clothing still in the house, even clean ones hanging in closets or packed in drawers. Smoke permeates everything and invades closed spaces. Wash bedclothes and steam clean rugs, draperies and mattresses to disinfect them and get rid of the smoke odor. Steam clean or use commercial fabric deodorizing spray on upholstered furniture. Do not simply buy perfumed sprays to cover up smoke odors or they will return as soon as the spray wears off.
Hard Surface Cleaning
Wash down cabinets, countertops and walls with mild soap followed by an astringent such as vinegar spray (one part vinegar to three parts water). The soap and water removes the residue and the vinegar spray cuts odors and mold. Remove dishes and food from inside cabinets and clean all inner surfaces. Throw out opened dry good foods.
Repairing Damage
Inspect all damaged wood areas. Remove all wood with any damage from either fire or water. Even wood with burn marks is a damaged piece and will hold smoke odors, and possibly even disintegrate further over time. Water-damaged wood is prone to rot even when dried out. Remove drywall that has water damage or is crumbling and replace it. Scrape all soot and residue from concrete and apply a layer of mortar over the damaged area to level out. Furniture with burned or water-damaged wood is unsalvageable unless pieces are replaceable.
When to Get Help
Call a professional to handle damage that is extreme, and can't be handled with simple cleanup. A professional can sandblast or pressure-wash concrete with excessive smoke and soot buildup, and will accomplish the repair with minimal additional water damage. He will check for soot and residue in vents and attics and power-wash rooftops and exterior walls. A professional smoke and fire damage control company will also perform tests to the structure of the building to determine safety for buildings suffering extreme fire damage.
Tags: fire damage, smoke odors, after fire, Cleaning Wash, Damage Repair
There's nothing worse than buying an expensive watch and then seeing it ruined from water damage. Some watches that claim to be waterproof really aren't. You'll want to test first before jumping in the shower or pool with your watch on, or you can just always take it off before submersing yourself in water to be safe. However, if your watch has been damaged and you wish to fix it, you can dry out your wet wristwatch. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Take your watch apart. Usually there will be a plate on the back of the watch that will come off when unscrewed. Every watch is different. Don't go poking around the watch unless you are sure of what you're doing.
2. Take out the watch parts one by one and set them on a dry paper towel. Set them in direct sunlight to dry them out. Watch parts will work again, if they are thoroughly dried within a few hours of getting wet.
3. Hold down the large watch piece with your hands and turn a hair blower on the part. Hold this for a minute or so while you wait for the watch piece to thoroughly dry.
4. Allow the watch parts to air dry overnight. Check the parts in the morning to make sure they are completely dry. If they are not, allow the parts to sit in a dry environment for a few more hours.
5. Replace the battery on the watch, if the watch requires a battery. Watch batteries can be ruined if they are wet.
6. Reassemble the watch with the screwdriver in the opposite way you took it apart.
Tags: your watch, watch parts, watch piece, with your
eBooks are increasing in popularity as our culture becomes more reliant on technology and the Internet.
Credit repair eBooks provide information to readers on how they can pay down debt and increase their credit score just like traditional books based on the same topic. The difference between traditional print credit repair books and eBooks is that latter are delivered to the reader in an electronic format which is often less expensive and therefore, more appealing to consumers, especially those already battling financial issues. eBooks have gained in popularity in recent years as more and more people are relying on the Internet for research and pleasure reading. Products such as Amazon’s "Kindle" and Barnes and Noble’s "Nook" allow readers to download eBooks onto a paperback-sized digital reader. While there is still a large demand for traditional books on the topic of credit repair, many consumers are turning to eBooks to get information on this topic as a quick, convenient, environmentally friendly and less expensive alternative.
Instructions
1. Develop a marketing strategy before you begin writing your credit repair eBook. There are several ways to make money with this type of product. The first is the most obvious--you create an eBook filled with valuable information that consumers are interested in and willing to purchase. You profit solely from the sale of your book. However, if you have a credit repair business, you may want to use your eBook as a marketing tool to drive customers to your business. Your decision will have an impact on the way you write your material. If your goal is to sell your content, you will want to include specific details about the credit repair process and include resources where consumers can seek help. If your goal is to drive customers to an existing business, your book should be filled with information that persuades the reader to use your services specifically.
2. Write the content of your credit repair eBook. You may use any traditional word processing application for this step. Electronic books are set up in the same basic format as traditional books. This means that your eBook should have a title page and a publication page that lists the author’s name, date and place of publication and any copyright disclaimers you wish to add. Your book should also have a table of contents to give the reader an overview of the specific credit repair topics discussed and which page they can be found on.
Creating an outline before you begin your first draft will help you to mentally organize all of the information that you should include in your books. Your topics should flow in a logical order. For example you could start your book with an overview of credit issues and the impact that poor credit has on consumers and proceed through each step of the credit repair process.
3. Publish your eBook. There are multiple ways to complete this step. The simplest way is to upload your eBook to an online retailer such as Amazon or Lulu. These services handle the download and payment process for you. If you would like to sell your eBook on your own website, you will need to transfer your eBook to Portable Document Format (PDF) which can be done using Adobe or Cute PDF programs. You could also have the text of your eBook integrated into an executable program (EXE) that encompasses digital reader software, such as Microsoft Reader.
You will also need to sign up for a payment processing application, such as PayPal, and have your files, document reader and payment software integrated into your website. This entire process entails the use of fairly sophisticated computer coding that should be performed by a website developer unless you have the skills to perform this task on your own.
4. Market your eBook. It is unlikely that your credit repair book will be highly successful on its own. It will be up to you let people know that your eBook exists and why they should purchase it. You can promote your eBook by offering to speak at seminars or community events on the topic of credit repair, or you could utilize Google Adwords to strategically place advertisements for your eBook on relevant sites all over the Web. You could also promote your eBook through social media applications such as Facebook, MySpace and Twitter.
Tags: your eBook, credit repair, credit repair, information that, that your, traditional books, your credit
Fix your broken iPhone at home to avoid a trip to the Apple store or Mac repair specialist or, if your device is out of warranty, to avoid incurring the out-of-pocket cost of repairing it. Some iPhone problems don't require the device to be physically taken apart or have new parts installed into it, so not all repairs require the handiwork of an iPhone expert.
Instructions
1. Fill a plastic bag halfway with rice and place a powered-off iPhone that has been water damaged into the bag. Fill the remainder of the bag with rice, seal it and allow it to sit for 24 hours. Remove the iPhone from the bag and plug it in to its charger. In many cases, drying out an iPhone that has become wet -- rice is ideal for doing so, since it is absorbent and gentle -- results in the device working again.
2. Hold down the "Home" and "Lock" buttons at the same time -- and don't release until an "Apple" appears on the screen -- to restart an iPhone that has become frozen. Just as is the case with computers, iPhones "freeze" from time to time when they get overloaded. Restarting an iPhone fixes the freeze.
3. Update the iPhone's carrier software and operating system regularly to ensure continued normal function. Plug the phone into the computer, wait for iTunes to open and click "Yes" when iTunes prompts you to update either of these softwares.
4. Tap the "App Store" icon, then tap "Updates" to see and download updates for apps that are malfunctioning. If your Facebook app crashes immediately after launching it, it is due to a software version issue that is easily solvable, without the assistance of an Apple representative.
5. Restore an iPhone that has stopped functioning normally to its factory settings. Plug the iPhone into the computer's USB port. Open iTunes if it doesn't launch automatically, then click the "Restore" button under the "Version" tab. Choose "Yes" when iTunes prompts you to back up the iPhone's data, then click the "Restore" button and wait for the device to power back on. Right-click the name of the iPhone in the iTunes sidebar and choose "Restore from Backup" to place your date back on the iPhone. Restoring an iPhone to factory settings remedies many of its operational issues.
Tags: iPhone that, back iPhone, click Restore, click Restore button, factory settings, into computer
Do you always get compliments on the way you do your makeup? Do you have a gift for giving others tips on do their makeup well? You might be able to be a professional makeup artist and get paid for your skills. One way you could accomplish this is to become a mortuary makeup artist. This job involves preparing dead bodies for burial by doing things such as applying makeup, doing manicures, fixing hair, dressing the body, reconstructing disfigured faces and the like. While it may sound like a macabre job description, your reward is not only that you get paid well, but you can also bring comfort to bereaved family members by making their deceased loved one look as good as possible.
Instructions
1. Be certain that you are able to feel comfortable as a mortuary makeup artist. If you have any qualms about being around and handling corpses, it may not be right for you.
2. Take cosmetology classes at a beauty school and learn general makeup techniques, as well as fix and style hair. You can also follow up by going to a mortuary school or community college that offers classes in Mortuary Science, where you can learn more about apply makeup to the dead, restoration airbrushing and other knowledge that will prepare you to work as a mortuary makeup artist.
3. Get your cosmetology license, as you are required to have it posted in the work station of any place you work as a cosmetologist. You must have attended and graduated from a beauty school recognized by your state's Department of Licensing and you generally have to successfully complete at least 1600 hours of the required coursework and training for your individual state. You will have to take and pass a National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology exam and present proof to the state licensing board you wish to apply to.
4. Work as a "conventional" makeup artist or cosmetologist first, so you can get more experience and build up your resume.
5. Contact funeral homes in your area and see if they need anyone to do makeup on the bodies of the deceased. Present them with a professional resume that includes your training, experience and references, as well as photos of people on whom you have done work. It's sometimes better to go in person so that the funeral director knows that you are serious about applying.
Tags: makeup artist, beauty school, mortuary makeup, mortuary makeup artist
Whether you need to make repairs or to determine which parts you need to upgrade your Dell computer, you can easily find after-market materials online. If you have an old Dell computer stored away, dust it off and don't wait any longer to get it up and running. Add new memory, a video card or a better hard drive, and you can breathe new life into your laptop. Repairing your machine may be easier and cheaper than you expect.
Instructions
Determining Your Parts Needs & Making the Repairs
1. Analyze your laptop using Dell.com's System Analyzer, a program that will check your computer in 10 seconds and show recommended upgrades for your Dell laptop. (See References section below for the direct link.)
2. Consult the technical support department at Dell if you are not sure which parts you need. The support numbers are (800) 456-3355 or (800) 449-3355
3. Visit Parts-People.com for an affordable way to get parts for your Dell computer. This website also offers to repair your laptop for a flat labor fee of $100 plus the cost of parts and shipping, and they will tackle all problems, both big and small.
4. Visit dell.com/home and click the "parts for your Dell" link for hard-to-find parts. Dell Direct, through the PC manufacturer, has the biggest inventory of parts and accessories for the brand. Ground shipping is free on orders over $129.
Tags: your Dell, Dell computer, your laptop, Dell Laptop, parts need, parts your
A green roof insulates the home below and sometimes even provides recreation.
Green homes are drawing increasing attention as architects and builders advertise energy-saving and environmentally friendly residential design. High-profile disasters like the hurricane damage from Katrina in New Orleans highlight the need to build site-sensitive housing. Organizations such as the U.S. Green Building Council, the Forest Stewardship Council and Make It Right, the nonprofit that is helping to rebuild the Lower Ninth Ward in New Orleans, offer guidelines and examples of design an eco-friendly, economical and efficient home. Before engaging a green architect, it's worth learning about new developments and available options. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Situate the house on its lot in the most favorable way to take advantage of light and protection from the elements. Consider the direction and slope of the roof that will accommodate solar panels. Plan for adequate sun to grow an insulating green roof or rooftop vegetable garden. Choose wide eaves to overhang the walls, provide shade from intense summer sun, and allow winter sun, which is angled at a slant, to enter the home. Build the thickest walls with the fewest windows facing the northwest to shelter the house from winter storms and chill. Put a house in a flood zone on stilts.
2. Route the construction materials and vehicles around and through existing trees to disturb the natural landscape as little as possible. Evaluate typical runoff, grades and even soil type when planning the structure, foundation, location and eventual landscaping for the home. Use roofs for collecting rainwater and use xeriscaping -- drought-tolerant landscaping -- to save on irrigation. Keep as much of the house open to the outdoors as possible by designing interior spaces around a sheltered courtyard or adjacent terraces. Factor daylighting into window and interior wall placement. Take advantage of airflow in milder seasons to save on air conditioning or avoid it altogether.
3. Opt for sustainable materials whenever possible. Materials should be local so there are minimal transportation energy costs. Get supplies from sustainable sources, such as wood certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. Use natural textiles, construction materials, finishes and decoration made without potentially toxic or environmentally hazardous additives. Classic linoleum, for example, is completely compostable, made from linseed oil, flax, jute and other natural fibers. Insulate with tech-forward products like rolls of recycled blue jeans. Never use old-growth lumber, but do use architectural salvage when it is clean and locally available.
4. Focus on energy-efficient doors and windows, water heaters, bathroom fixtures, heat sources and kitchen appliances. Buy Energy Star-rated appliances and minimize excess. One TV in a family den might really be enough television for the whole house. A clothesline in the yard and one in the garage might take the place of an energy-intensive dryer.
5. Explore natural options for an outdoor pool. There are workable alternatives to a typical chlorinated concrete shell that might better suit your lifestyle, budget and environmental consciousness.
Tags: construction materials, Forest Stewardship, Forest Stewardship Council, green roof, Stewardship Council
The most misunderstood repair on a mobile home is seal a leaky roof or patch a hole. Holes can be patched but they must also be sealed. Standard maintenance for a metal roof is to paint on a protective coating. The purpose of this is not to stop leaks but to give the roof a reflective surface and help protect the metal roof from rusting. Metal roofing is thin and tears easily when the seams expand and contract with the movement of the roof. It is essential to understand the correct procedure to fix a mobile home roof. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Remove any loose coating. Clean the surface of the metal roof by removing all dirt, leaves and grime to ensure better adherence of the coating. With a hose, wash off any dirt or debris stuck to the old coating and let the roof dry thoroughly.
2. Remove old coatings and sealant on the seams of the roof and around the vents using a wire brush or grinder on the end of a drill. Look for loose nails and re-nail or replace the nails. Tighten all loose screws and replace missing screws in the roof. Apply a generous bead of neoprene or polyurethane sealant to seal the seams and around the vents. Allow enough time for the sealant to cure before proceeding.
3. Remove any rust using a wire brush and sanding block. Wipe away dust and debris and clean the area. Apply rust inhibitor according to the direction on the label and let it dry thoroughly.
4. Inspect all vents, looking for leaks, cracked or broken rubber boots or missing sealant. Replace any damaged rubber boots around vents. Make any necessary repairs to vents or replace any broken or damaged parts. Use neoprene sealant to seal around vents.
5. Make certain the metal roof is clean and completely dry. Apply a coat of white elastomeric coating by pouring it from the container onto the roof. Spread the coating using a paint roller with a long handle. Read the label on the coating container for how much coating to use, how thin to spread it, how many coats to use, and drying time.
Tags: around vents, metal roof, around vents Make, Home Roof, mobile home
If you are researching this subject, you probably already repair your own small engines, such as lawnmowers and yard equipment. You may even do it as a hobby for friends and relatives. Why not capitalize on your knowledge and turn it into a small business? With a little planning, you can start out small and expand as you go.
Instructions
Start a Small Engine Repair Business
1. Know the area you are planning to start a small engine repair business in. Look around and see how much competition you will have. If you have a small building at home, you may be planning to start your business there. Make sure none of your neighbors are already doing this. You should be in an area that is easily accessible and easily found. Nobody enjoys driving way out in the country and getting lost!
2. Check with your county clerk's office to find out the laws on small businesses in your area. Some small communities do not require any special zoning at all, while larger cities may require a lot of paperwork. Make sure your chosen area will allow a small engine repair shop before you invest a lot of time and money into it.
3. Decide what prices you will charge. Check other businesses out to see what their prices are. Check out the price of small engine parts and decide what mark up you will need. Decide if you will charge just for labor, plus the cost of parts. List all feasible repair jobs you might encounter in a notebook and put your charges next to them. Be consistent with your charges. Customer A will be upset if Customer B gets a cheaper repair job than he or she did, and may not come back.
4. Ask family and friends to help you advertise. Start out by making flyers and business cards on your computer to save on costs. Carry the flyers and cards everywhere you go. Post the flyers in grocery stores, gas stations and retail stores. Always ask before you hang the flyer, as some businesses either doesn't allow it, or want to see what you are posting. Post an ad in the local paper. Many areas have monthly shoppers publications that offer free ad services.
5. Start small at first. Don't take on more repairs than you can handle just to get customers. Build your business by buying lawn mowers, weed eaters and other small engine equipment at yard sales and auctions. Even if they don't run, or are in bad shape, they will be a source of parts for you to rebuild other small engines. Fix several up and offer them for a very reasonable price. People love bargains and they'll know who to come to in the event that they need to buy a cheap lawnmower in a hurry! You might want to consider having a few lawn mowers or weed eaters to loan out while your customer's is being repaired.
6. Do the work in a timely fashion. Give your customers a time frame and stick to it. People need their lawn equipment back in a hurry and if they know they can depend on you, they will be repeat customers and they will refer their friends. Be the best that you can be, by being fair and honest with your customers. Treat them as you want to be treated and your business will soon be booming!
Tags: planning start, small engine, they will, with your, your business, lawn mowers
Homeowners insurance is an important protection to have when owning a home, as it can protect owners from a major financial loss in the event of a natural disaster, fire or other damaging event. Because so many homeowners need this kind of coverage, Texas has certain laws in place to protect the rights of policy holders.
Mandatory Coverage
In Texas, homeowners insurance is not generally required by law. However, the Texas Department of Insurance encourages homeowners to purchase adequate coverage to protect against financial disaster, and most mortgage lenders require it. Additionally, certain residents living along the Gulf Coast of Texas may be required by law to purchase flood insurance. If a homeowner lives along the flood zones identified by the National Flood Insurance Program as V, VE, or V1-V30 and has "constructed, altered, remodeled, or enlarged [her property] on or after September 1, 2009," then she is required to get flood insurance in Texas.
Coverage
If a homeowner does purchase insurance in Texas, only the structure of the house must be covered under state law. However, there are many policies in the state that offer additional kinds of coverage, protecting against loss of property, offering medical payments, and providing for a temporary home while a house is repaired. Standard insurance policies typically do not cover certain kinds of damage, as in the case of earthquakes, termites or regular wear and tear. Those who need coverage for this kind of damage often must purchase additional insurance in Texas.
Insurance Rates
Texas law requires homeowners insurance companies to offer policies that are "reasonable, adequate, not excessive to the risks for which they apply, and not unfairly discriminatory." Thus, insurance rates must not be found to be unfairly expensive. The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) closely monitors insurance company rates, and if the TDI finds them to be excessive, then insurance companies must refund overcharged policy holders. Also, insurance companies may only change individual premium costs when a policy-holder renews his insurance. Insurance companies have the right to appeal TDI decisions.
Acceptable Factors
There are acceptable factors for which a homeowners insurance company in Texas may increase premiums or cancel policies. These factors include the age/condition of the home, its location, its replacement costs, the building materials used, its proximity to fire departments, and the policy holder's insurance record and credit rating. Insurance companies in Texas may not refuse coverage, increase premiums, or cancel policies due to "race, color, religion, or national origin" or because of "age, gender, marital status, geographic location, [and/or] disability."
Filing Claims
The TDI requires insurance companies to deal with filed insurance claims within 15 days after a written notice is received. If the company needs more information from a claimant, then it may request this. Once the insurance company receives this information, it has 15 more days to either accept or reject a claim. Payments must be made within five days of an accepted claim, and rejections must be accompanied with a letter explaining why.
Complaints
If a policy holder feels that she has been discriminated against, that the claim is not being handled in a timely fashion, or that her claim has been rejected unfairly, she should first try to contact the company and resolve the issue, according to the Texas Department of Insurance. Every homeowners insurance company in Texas is required by law to have a toll-free telephone hot line for customer assistance. If the issue still cannot be resolved, she should contact the TDI.
Use online sources to troubleshoot problems and for DIY help.
Appliance repair can be costly. If you are somewhat handy at repairs, start by exploring online websites. This will also help you articulate the problem, gauge potential parts that may be required and prepare to describe it to a repairperson if you cannot fix the appliance yourself. Does this Spark an idea?
Repair Clinic
RepairClinic.com features online assistance for large appliances like dishwashers, refrigerators and air conditioner, to humidifiers and garbage disposal systems. There is also live chat assistance available from 8AM to Midnight every day.
Point and Click Appliance Repair
You can get free answers to common solutions for appliance repair on PC Appliance Repair.com. The site features helpful solutions for most major brands of clothes washers, dryers, ranges and even water filtration systems. You can search by brands such as Admiral, Frigidaire, GE, Kenmore, Maytag, Sears, Westinghouse and Whirlpool.
Manufacturer Websites
Most major manufacturers provide either a troubleshooting flow chart, live chat, frequently asked questions section, customer service section and a list of recommended repair and service providers. Be sure to visit the manufacturer's website for your brand of appliance as a first-step to troubleshoot the appliance problem and find help online.
Repairing holes in an automobile panel is not a simple process. You usually need some experience to do the job right. Without a working knowledge of automotive repair, the improper procedures can lead to rust damage and cracks in the repaired area. While it can be attempted by a non-professional, there are professional tools that must be used. One of those tools is Bondo. It's a body filler, or putty, used in auto repair that can be purchased at most auto parts distributors.
Instructions
1. Wash the dented area with a rag saturated in a soap and water mixture.
2. Reshape the metal using a hammer and dolly, if access to the back of the panel is available.
3. Grind the damaged area down to bare metal using 40-grit sandpaper. Follow with 180-grit sandpaper to feather-edge the paint edge so it is even with the undamaged area.
4. Fill in the damaged area with Bondo.
5. Begin sanding with 80-grit sandpaper, gradually increasing to 320-grit sandpaper to level out the body filler until there is a smooth transition between the damaged and undamaged area. This might take several spreads of body filler to achieve properly.
6. Use a red Scotchbrite pad to scuff three to four inches around the area that was repaired. This will give proper adhesion for the paint primer.
7. Clean the entire area with solvent-based grease and wax remover that is available at most auto parts distributors.
8. Tape off the vehicle panel along the edge of the scuffed area to protect the rest of the automobile from paint overspray.
9. Prime the area according to the manufacturer's recommendations found on the paint primer label.
Tags: area with, body filler, auto parts, auto parts distributors, Bondo Dent, damaged area
Strike while the bargains are hot and you can get a good deal on foreclosed properties to flip. The trick is having cash to buy, and if you don't have your own nest egg lying around, don't worry, there is plenty of money available if you know where to look. Forget what you may have heard about hard money lenders, they can be your connection to real estate investment success if you understand how they work and how you can benefit from their services.
Instructions
1. Interview two or three hard money lenders in your area before you begin to shop for a viable property for your next fix and flip. The term "Hard Money Loan" is often misunderstood by potential borrowers. A better term to describe the product is "Asset-Based Lending."
2. Establish a working relationship with the lender you feel offers the best terms, and with whom you feel you can most easily communicate. As you do more successful deals with the lender, the terms should improve. Typically speaking, residential flip loans run up to 65 percent of loan to value (LTV), for six months to three years (some offer extensions), with 3 to 6 points and 24 to 48 hour loan processing.
3. Increase your chances of submitting a winning bid on deeply discounted properties offered by banks, wholesalers, or other private parties by offering a cash deal, funded by your hard money lender, and a quick close. Because the hard money lender loans on the value of the property, not your personal credit score, you need to be sure your deal meets the lender's criteria to get the loan.
4. Manage your deal by making sure you have everything in place for your lender, including your contract, property information and comparable sales if they are requested. If the lender needs to inspect the property, make sure you can arrange to have the property available.
5. Make payments on time and if possible pay off your hard money loan earlier than expected. The lender will be more likely to approve the next deal you bring to them and improve the terms.
Tags: hard money, hard money lender, hard money lenders, money lender, money lenders, next flip