Quiet your riding lawn mower engine with a muffler.
Most riding lawn mower engines come with a muffler installed on the engine exhaust port. The muffler forces the exhaust to travel through noise-canceling chambers inside the muffler. The muffler also provides back pressure for the engine so that it can run at its maximum horsepower. Over time, the muffler can crack or the gasket seal between the muffler and exhaust port can deteriorate, causing the engine to get louder. If this happens, there is a fairly easy fix. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Allow the engine to cool down for a few hours before you work on the muffler, as it gets extremely hot while the engine is running.
2. Locate the muffler and exhaust pipe running from the front of the engine.
3. Fit the correct -sized wrench on the two bolts holding the exhaust pipe to the exhaust port on the engine and unscrew them. Pull the pipe off and out of the muffler.
4. Inspect the muffler. Make sure it doesn't have any cracks in it. Over time, condensation can rust out and crack a muffler. Remove the muffler mounting bolts and replace the muffler if it is rusted out or cracked.
5. Peel the old gasket off the exhaust port. Scrape any debris off with your fingernail. Place the new gasket over the exhaust port. Slide the exhaust pipe into the muffler and tighten it back onto the exhaust port.
Tags: exhaust port, exhaust pipe, muffler exhaust, Over time, riding lawn, riding lawn mower, with muffler
Over time, pool sticks start to show wear and tear.
Pool sticks, also called pool cues, get a lot of abuse when playing pool. After all, the job of the cue stick is to hit the balls hard enough to place them in the pockets. Over time, a variety of issues can occur that will cause the pool cue to perform less than optimally. Most pool cue repairs are quick projects that even beginner gamers can accomplish themselves. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Locate any dents or nicks in the wood of the cue stick by rubbing it with your fingers. Lay the pool stick on a flat table so that the dented area is facing upward.
2. Apply 1 to 2 drops of water to the dented area only. Wait five to 10 seconds and wrap a dollar bill around the cue stick once. Move the dollar bill back-and-forth over the dented area rapidly for approximately 30 to 60 seconds. As you do this, heat is generated, which will remove the dent.
3. Hold the cue stick up to your nose and look down the shaft to see if it is bent. If the shaft is bent, soak a towel in hot water and wring it out as much as possible. Wrap the bent section of the stick in the towel for at least one to two minutes. Hang the pool stick in a cue rack with the tip facing downward. Allow it remain untouched for at least 24 hours.
4. Look at the tip on the end of the pool stick to see if it is perfectly flat across the bottom or whether it looks like a rounded mushroom cap. If it is rounded, wrap a piece of fine-grit sandpaper around the perimeter of the tip and twist it to sand down the tip. Do not scratch the actual stick as you do this.
5. Repair cue stick tips that fall off by simply applying one to two drops of a strong wood glue to the back of the tip and pressing it firmly on the end of the stick. Hold it in place for approximately 30 seconds and wipe away excess glue with a damp cloth. Allow the cue stick to sit for 24 hours before using it.
Tags: dented area, pool stick, approximately seconds, dollar bill, Over time, shaft bent
Your mobile home might look nice with a brand-new skirt.
Mobile homes commonly have tin or aluminum sheets of skirting, or underpinning, that cover the distance between the home and ground. These not only attempt to keep critters from taking up residence under the home, but also give the residence a more permenant feel. Susceptible to damage from the elements, especially harsh storms or common pests, replacing a mobile home's underpinning with something different could spruce things up cheaply. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Remove the old underpinning from your mobile home by removing the screws attaching it to its top railing at the home's bottom and the bottom rail at the ground.
2. Remove the rails from your mobile home if you're replacing those with new ones. Otherwise, leave these in place for attaching your trellis panels.
3. Measure the distance between the top of your top rail and the bottom of your bottom rail. Do this every few yards, all around the trailer. Write these measurements down on a crude drawing of your mobile home.
4. Add pea rock to areas where the earth dips, helping you to make your skirting more uniformly wide -- and animal-proof -- all around your home.
5. Purchase trellis panels with the smallest holes possible. You don't want larger animals taking up residence. If using an alternative skirting, like faux stone or wood paneling, make sure to buy it wide enough to suit your dimensions.
6. Use a level to test the alignment of your top and bottom railings. If misaligned, adjust the frames before you begin placing the trellis panels.
7. Cut out sections of trellis or paneling to the exact dimensions recorded earlier. A circular saw or wood saw should suffice for trellis material; metal snips will be needed for paneling. Measure carefully where each panel will go. Often ground elevations will change, requiring you to finetune each panel.
8. Screw the corners of the first panel of trellis or skirting to the top and bottom railing, at a corner.
9. Add a few screws along the top and bottom edges of each panel, then continue to the next panel in line.
10. Continue around your mobile home until you've substited your old underpinning with something new.
Tags: mobile home, your mobile, each panel, trellis panels, your mobile home, around your
Solar panels can provide energy for a self-sufficient house.
It is very difficult to make a house entirely self sufficient, but greatly increasing its level of self sufficiency is within grasp for anyone. If you live on a farm or have a private water source, you might even be able to achieve 100 percent independence. In any case, freeing yourself from the connections to the outside world helps you live in a green home that is much more cost efficient than a traditional house. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Install a heating source for your home. If you have a property with ample supplies of firewood, then wood stoves are an expedient way of heating a home in the winter time. If that is not an option, look into solar heating systems or geothermal heating. Build your home to take advantage of the natural heat of the sun. Include large south-facing windows to make the most of the available solar heat.
2. Purchase and install a method of producing enough electricity to power your home. The two basic options for doing this are solar or wind-generated power. Some homes run on a combination of both systems. In either case, you need the power collector, such as a solar panel or wind turbine, and storage. You will also need battery storage, so you will have enough power to run the home during the night or when it is not windy.
3. Find and access a water source for your home. You need ample clean water to run a self-sufficient home. Collect water from rain sources, wells, dams or springs, depending on what local water resources you have available. A gray water system is also essential to maintaining a constant source of water.
4. Retrofit your home to make it more energy efficient. When you generate your own heat and energy, you need to completely minimize your energy loss from the home. Weatherstripping, high-quality doors, energy-efficient windows and complete home insulation, including crawl spaces and attics, make the home more energy efficient.
Tags: your home, energy efficient, more energy, more energy efficient, source your, source your home
According to the National Institutes of Health, inhalation of asbestos particles can cause mesothelioma, a fatal type of cancer that can develop in the abdomen and chest. Nebraska home and business owners who want to remove and dispose of asbestos siding from their properties can apply for grants offered by federal, state and regional agencies. Certain grant programs provide funding for Nebraska homeowners, but others only award money to organizations or government agencies.
Childcare Grant Fund
Owners of home-based and commercial childcare centers may qualify for funding offered by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (NDHHS) to abate asbestos issues in their properties. As of July 2011, the NDHHS offers a maximum of $5,000 for home-based childcare facilities and $10,000 for commercial childcare centers to correct building issues that may prevent beginning childcare providers from obtaining new operating licenses. The NDHHS also offers mini-grants up to $2,000 to help existing, licensed childcare providers fund building modifications to correct substandard conditions that do not meet licensing requirements.
Rural Home Repair Loan and Grant Program
Rural Nebraska homeowners may qualify for funding offered by the Rural Home Repair Loan and Grant program sponsored by the Rural Development division of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The program provides funding to help low-income rural residents make safety and health improvements to their homes, which may include replacement of siding, roof repairs or electrical rewiring. The USDA only offers grants to residents 62 years old and older who do not have the means to repay a loan. Grant recipients can receive up to $7,500, as of July 2011, but cannot use funding to pay for cosmetic home improvements, such as painting, installing kitchen cabinets or landscaping. The program also offers loans for low-income homeowners who do not qualify for grants. Borrowers can receive up to $20,000 with 20-year repayment terms and an interest rate of 1 percent.
EPA Cleanup Grants
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) offers cleanup grants for brownfield properties, or buildings that contain hazardous substances. The grant program extends eligibility to nonprofit organizations, states, redevelopment agencies and local governments. As of July 2011, entities can apply for cleanup grants for up to five property sites and receive a maximum of $200,000 for each site. The program requires recipients to provide a cost share of 20 percent, which can include monetary contributions, materials, services or labor.
Owner-occupied Rehabilitation Program
The Southwest Nebraska Community Betterment Corporation offers funding to low- and moderate-income homeowners through the Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation program. The program only extends eligibility to residents of Dundy, Perkins, Hitchcock, Chase and Hayes Counties. While the intent of the OOR program is to provide funding for energy efficiency improvements, qualified homeowners may also receive funding to replace unsafe materials on their properties. The program offers funds in a forgivable loan agreement, which does not require repayment unless the homeowner sells the property within five years of receiving funding. Homeowners living in Southwest Nebraska must meet income limits to qualify for the OOR program.
Tags: July 2011, their properties, also offers, childcare centers, childcare providers, cleanup grants, commercial childcare
If you are planning to build a green house or to do some major eco-friendly remodeling, here is a great resource to help you choose a new house plan that is green and healthy, find a green builder in your area, or find resources for eco-friendly products including major appliances, insulation, outdoor furniture, and more. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Go to FreeGreen.com and register - it takes two minutes. FreeGreen.com is a relatively new (and award winning) company that is committed to green building. They continue to add free house plans to their library for you to enjoy.
Now that you've joined, you can select the type of house plan that interests you. There's the modern View Box plan for narrow lots, a Comfortable Cape plan that's perfect for beach areas, a Suburban Loft plan, and more.
2. Once you've selected the plan, tell them which state you live in, and which major city is close by. Why do they need that information? Because they've created climate-specific data for their downloads.
Click Download.
3. Your download consists of three files: A Drawing Set, a Spec Book, and energy data. All are in .pdf format.
** FreeGreen.com has recently added an Open Source feature to their site, which allows home design companies to make available their own green designs for your to download as well, however most are for a fee (ranging anywhere from $20 to $2500).
Tags: house plan, plan that, green house, house plan that
Water damage in a mobile home is a financially and personally trying experience to deal with. Along with memories and collectibles that may have been lost, the structural repairs caused by water damage can be costly and time-consuming to fix. While prevention is always the best action to take, not every instance is controllable. There are some things you can do after the fact to repair the water damage in your mobile home. Does this Spark an idea?
Call Your Agent
If you have mobile home coverage or even renter's insurance, contact your insurance company before taking any actions for water damage in your home. Depending on the cause of the water damage, you may have coverage to help with any repairs to the dwelling or reimbursement for assets lost or damaged. Your agent will also provide advice for clean-up procedures that will not interfere with any claim investigations. If the damage is extensive, take photos for your personal reference.
Protect Your Valuables
Move personal and valuable items away from the area with water damage. Immediately set clothing, furniture, fabrics and books out to dry. Use fans and dehumidifiers to speed up the drying process. If the water damage was recent, you should have no problem drying out your valuables and protecting them; however, if the water has been sitting for a week or more, many of your items could be contaminated with mold spores and should be thrown away if they are incapable of being thorough cleaned. Do not use bleach or harmful chemicals to clean any organic materials. Consult with your agent or your local department of safety for safe chemicals and cleaning procedures.
Water Removal
Removing the excess water is vital in restoring the living space within your mobile home. Consider hiring a licensed professional to deal with the water as well as killing any mold growth that may have occurred from the water damage. Put soaked or moldy materials in sturdy plastic trash bags to prevent contaminating the rest of the home as you transport it outside. Begin by pulling up the carpet and removing the waterlogged padding underneath. Remove damaged drywall and insulation. Do not attempt to reinstall the old materials; instead, purchase new items. Move furniture outside if possible and separate the cushions and coverings to allow maximum drying. Shop-vacs and carpet cleaners are the easiest ways to remove excess water from carpeting and furniture. Never use your vacuum, since this can result in electric shock.
Repairs and Restoration
It is important that every item be completely dry before proceeding with the restoration process. If materials are still slightly wet, you will end up with a large mold colony that will result in expensive repairs and cleaning. Install new insulation, drywall and carpet padding. Consider having your carpet professionally cleaned to prevent mold growth before reinstalling it. As long as everything is dry, repairs should move smoothly and you can get back to a normal state of living. Perform regular maintenance and repairs quickly to avoid future water problems.
Tags: mobile home, water damage, damage your, deal with, excess water, mold growth, that have
Do you have cracking in the concrete in your basement? Learn fill and seal basement concrete cracking. Follow these easy steps to get one of those things off your list that may have been worrying you for a long time.
Instructions
1. Use a screwdriver to pry out any debris that is lodged in the cracks. Then, use an air compressor to blow out and thoroughly clean the cracks.
2. Apply a pre-caulking spray generously over all of the cracking. Make sure to get it at least an inch around any and all cracking.
3. Completely fill in the cracking with a standard cement caulking using a metal spreader. An effective way to do this is to begin with a large portion of caulking at the top of the cracking and spread it down.
4. Scrape off as much excess caulking as possible with the metal spreader. Try to make the transition from the concrete to the caulking as smooth as possible.
5. Let the caulking dry for around an hour. Do not continue until the caulking is close to the same color as the concrete.
6. Take a pad or sheet of heavy grade sandpaper and, with high pressure, sand the caulking down to the level of the concrete. This may take some time since the caulking will have expanded while drying.
7. Coat the entire cracked surface with a concrete sealant. Spread the sealant thinly and evenly. You may want to spread on more than one coat.
The U.S. government provides housing assistance to low-income disabled people though programs such as the Housing Choice Voucher and public housing programs. These programs either subsidize a tenant's rent payment to keep it less than 30 percent of his income or provide low-cost, government-owned housing. Housing assistance programs are administered through state and local government agencies called housing authorities. Disabled people have priority status for these programs, meaning you will not have to wait as long for assistance as most people. You must contact the housing authority in your area to apply for housing assistance.
Instructions
1. Go to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development website to find a list of state and local housing authorities.
2. Contact the housing authority in your area to ask about the application process. Often, you can complete the application online or download it from the housing authority's website. Some agencies may require an in-person application. However, the information you must prove is the same for different types of housing assistance applications.
3. Provide your name, date of birth, Social Security number, current address, previous addresses and a phone number where you can be reached.
4. Enter information about your income, including income from a job, investments, pension, Social Security Disability Insurance, Supplemental Security Income or other social service programs.
5. List your monthly household expenses. This includes current rent payments, utilities and medical costs.
6. Describe the nature of your disability. You must include the name of the disease or type of injury that caused your disability, the date you were diagnosed and your doctor's contact information.
7. Submit the application. The housing authority will process your paperwork and contact you with a decision, usually within 30 to 60 days, depending on your housing authority and the number of applicants.
When you consider doing business with a company, you want to know its track record and that you'll have recourse if there's a problem.
Instructions
1. Find out if the company has a legitimate address and business phone number.
2. Stay away from a business that uses a post office box as its corporate address and can only be reached by leaving a message on an answering machine or with a call-center operator.
3. Find out if the company is registered with a major business directory such as Dun & Bradstreet (dnb.com) or Hoovers.com. You can verify this information on the Internet.
4. Find out if the company is licensed by the state.
5. Ask if the company is a member of any professional association. You can verify its membership by contacting the organization directly.
6. Look for TRUSTe certification on a Web-based business's home page. Other organizations also specialize in certifying, rating and reviewing Web-based businesses. View their sites for information.
7. Check the company's complaint record with your local consumer affairs department or state attorney general.
Clean CD Scratches Without Buying Cleaning Products
Cleaning CD scratches without buying cleaning products is possible using common items found around the house. The CD must first be cleaned thoroughly, and then the scratches can be buffed out as long as they aren't too deep. Use any of these methods for buffing and cleaning CD scratches, and your CDs will be as good as new in no time. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Dampen a clean cotton ball, and gently rub it across the CD to help remove any dirt or grime that may mar the performance of the CD. Move the cotton ball carefully from the center of the CD to its rim. Pat dry with a clean cloth.
2. Spray the CD scratches with glass cleaner, and gently rub with a soft, clean cloth as an alternative method for cleaning. Dip a cloth in water, and wipe the surface to rinse. Pat dry with a dry cloth, and once the CD is clean, proceed to buffing out CD scratches.
3. Use toothpaste to gently buff out CD scratches. Apply a small amount of paste to the affected area, and use a clean, soft rag to buff. Move in a circular motion from the center outward, and continue for several minutes. Remove the toothpaste with a clean cloth. Test the CD, and if it still doesn't play, repeat.
4. Use baking soda to buff out CD scratches. Combine enough water with a tablespoon of baking soda to form a thick paste. Apply to the affected area, and buff using a clean, soft cloth, moving in a circular motion from the center outward. Wipe the baking soda mixture from the CD using a clean cloth, and test the CD. Repeat this procedure if necessary.
5. Use Brasso to clean CD scratches or gently buff them away. Apply a small amount to the CD, and rub from the center of the CD to its rim on the scratch only. Avoid rubbing over any unnecessary areas. Wipe off the Brasso, and test the CD. Repeat if necessary.
Tags: clean cloth, from center, baking soda, affected area, Apply small
When your home suffers damage from a storm or vandalism, your homeowner's insurance company may pay for all or a portion of the necessary repairs. The insurance agency may send a damage adjuster to your home to examine the damage and estimate the cost of the repairs. By using general contractors in your area, you may be able to negotiate a higher settlement from the insurance company. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Solicit two or more repair estimates from reputable local contractors, calling on contractors recommended by friends or relatives. Meet with the contractor when he examines the damage but do not sign a contract to start work until your insurance agency approves.
2. Hold onto the estimates until your insurance agency gives you their estimate for the cost of the repairs. If their figure is higher than the amount estimated by the contractors, accept their offer.
3. Call your insurance agent if the agency's offer is lower than the contractor's offer and inform them of the discrepancy. The agent will give you an address where you will mail a copy the contractors' estimates for review. Keep the originals.
4. Provide the contractors' contact information to the agency. If there is a substantial difference in estimates to repair the damage, the insurance representative may contact one or both of the contractors to find out why they think the repairs would be higher.
5. Discuss the possibility that the cost of the repairs might go higher if the contractor discovers additional damage once he begins the project. Agencies handle this situation differently, but you may also be able to file an appeal for more money if the cost of materials increases unexpectedly.
6. Pay your deductible directly to the contractor, and your insurance agent will send you a settlement check for the balance of the cost. Some contractors may waive a portion of your deductible to get the job.
Tags: your insurance, cost repairs, insurance agency, your insurance agent, agent will
Anyone who owns an area rug is almost certainly going to come face to face with the prospect of tron or cracked binding repair. With the constant abuse rugs take, from being walked on, shook out, washed and dried, even the best of rug binding is going to break down at some point, and need to be repaired. Does this Spark an idea?
Stabilizing the Repair Area
The cracked or torn binding will need to be stabilized first so that it does not keep running through the length of your rug. Do this by matching up some heavy gauge sewing thread to a basic color of your rug. This thread is available at any department store in the sewing section.
If the tear in the binding is exposed on the top of the rug, now is the time to trim some fibers from a corner and press them into the separation. This will cover up any binding spots that might have been showing, and the stitching will hold them in place.
Flip over the area rug and expose the binding separation; this is where you will begin. Manually thread a needle with your choice of colored thread, and beginning at one end of the tear, begin stitching the tear closed. The color of your thread will make it difficult, if not impossible, to see this repair, so stitch your way carefully from one side to the other.
Glue and Seal
After sewing and stabilizing the separation, dab a little glue over the stitching. This can be a contact cement, a silicone sealant, or a general use household glue. Any or all of those will work well, and this will also give added strength to any fibers that you had pressed into the original separation.
After the glue has been dabbed on, cut off a piece of duct tape that will completely cover the stitching. Apply the duct tape by pressing firmly, particularly on the edges to give it a good solid seal. This will keep the stitches protected, making the repair last far longer.
Natural and environmentally friendly cleaning products can easily be made at home. Not only will the products be gentler on the environment, they will save the consumer money as well. Some ingredients, such as distilled white vinegar, can be used in a number of cleaning projects, from cleaning windows to freshening laundry. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Stock up on distilled white vinegar. Straight white vinegar can be used to clean plastic, vinyl, remove sticky tape residue from scissor blades, shine pennies, clean concrete, freshen counter tops, cut refrigerator grime and clean oven grease. It can be added to the dishwasher's rinse cycle and used to remove hard water stains from glass and shower doors. If run through a coffee pot, it can remove mineral build up. Distilled white vinegar can sanitize door knobs, remove fireplace soot and clean grout.
2. Mix equal parts distilled white vinegar to water for cleaning glass baby bottles, grills and refrigerator shelving. If warmed, the solution can remove dark stains on aluminum or remove wallpaper if applied to wallpaper by a roller or spray. If a cup of the mixture is brought to a boil in the microwave, it will help loosen baked-on foods and eliminate odors.
3. Combine one part distilled white vinegar to two parts salt to make a cleaning paste. This can be used to remove lime residue and shine chrome. Equal parts salt and distilled white vinegar can remove coffee and tea stains in cups, or clean tarnished pewter, brass and copper.
4. Blend distilled white vinegar and baking soda to make a household cleaner. This can be used to clean bathtubs and showerheads. Add 1 cup vinegar to 1 cup of ammonia and ½ cup baking soda to make a tile cleaner. Bathtub rings can be removed by first wiping down with vinegar and then scrubbing with the baking soda.
5. Mix together a floor-cleaning solution by combining equal parts of white vinegar, isopropyl alcohol and water, with several drops of liquid dish soap.
6. Wash indoor-outdoor carpet with a bucket of warm water, with 1 cup of distilled white vinegar added.
Tags: white vinegar, distilled white, distilled white vinegar, baking soda, baking soda make, distilled white vinegar
Fiberglass insulation has the potential to irritate and scar your lungs. Make sure to wear protective gear to prevent inhalation.
London, Ontario, residents looking to dispose of fiberglass insulation should take it to the North London or South London TRY Recycling sites. Fiberglass can irritate the skin and lungs, so it is very important to wear protective gear when handling the insulation. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Put on protective clothing over your regular clothes. Put on gloves, face mask and goggles.
2. Place fiberglass insulation in an airtight container or bag for transportation. Place contained fiberglass in vehicle.
3. Transport fiberglass insulation to a TRY Recycling site. Only the North London and South London sites accept fiberglass insulation.
4. Weigh your fiberglass insulation with the help of an attendant. The weight of the fiberglass will determine the cost of disposal. The minimum cost is $ 22.12 plus tax.
5. Remove protective clothing when done handling fiberglass. The clothing should be thrown away or washed immediately to avoid spreading fiberglass fibers.
Tags: fiberglass insulation, fiberglass insulation, London Ontario, London South, London South London
Buying a home in a hot market (with rapidly increasing prices and relatively low inventory) may require you to pay above list price. Be prepared for a bidding war.
Instructions
1. Get prequalified for a home loan and provide a letter of prequalification with your offer.
2. Be prepared to pay more than the sellers are asking. In a hot market, there may be several people trying to buy the same home at the same time.
3. Make your offer stand out. Make the terms easier for the sellers to accept by not asking for much - or any - repair work.
4. Increase your deposit. A bigger deposit makes an offer appear more serious.
5. Forget the extras. Pay for home warranties yourself.
6. Write a cover letter explaining how much you like the home and how it is perfect for your family. It might sound corny, but offers are often accepted just because the sellers liked the particular buyers and their families.
7. Let the sellers know the escrow period is negotiable. If they need 60 days instead of 30, give it to them.
8. If the sellers need a couple of days to move out after close of escrow, let them have it - for free.
Like all garage door openers, Craftsman door openers have a photo eye sensor system. This helps prevent the door from closing when there is an obstruction in the door's path. There is an invisible beam between each sensor that stops the door from closing if the beam is broken. Over time, sensors become faulty and the door will not operate until you replace them. Replacing a Craftsman garage door opener sensor requires a new sensor kit available through Sears. The sensors have the wire built into them, so you cannot reuse the existing sensor wire. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
Remove Existing Sensors
1. Place a step ladder under the rear of the Sears Craftsman garage door opener motor. Unplug the opener power cord from the outlet in the ceiling and remove the lens cover from the right side of the motor head.
2. Find the sensor wire connection on the right side of the opener head. There are two white wires and two black wires that insert into the multi-colored terminal block. Press the tab under the terminal block and pull the wires free from the opener.
3. Pull the wires off the ceiling and front garage wall with your hands, if you have exposed wires. The low-voltage wire simply staples into the wall and ceiling and will pull off quickly by hand. If the wires are inside the ceiling and wall, cut the ends of the wires flush with the ceiling and stuff them into the hole.
4. Turn the wing nuts securing the existing sensors to the bracket counterclockwise by hand and remove them from the sensor. Pull each sensor off the brackets and discard. If the brackets are not bent, do not replace the brackets. If they are bent, remove the bolt holding the bracket to the track with a wrench and remove the brackets.
Install New Sensors
5. Install the replacement brackets in the same position the old brackets were on the track or wall, using the same holes. Tighten the brackets bolt or lag screw with a wrench.
6. Insert the securing bolt into each sensor. The bolt has a square under the head that fits into a square notch in the sensor to prevent the bolt from turning when securing it to the bracket. Insert the bolt and bracket of the sensor with the orange LED light on left side bracket. Thread a wing nut onto the end of the bolt and tighten with your fingers to secure it to the bracket. Install the sensor with the green LED light onto the right side bracket in the same manner.
7. Attach the wire from the end of each sensor to the front garage wall with a staple gun. Ensure the wire is between the staple and you do not puncture the wire. Run the wire straight up to the ceiling and over the center of the door opening. Continue stapling the wire to the ceiling from the front of the opening straight back to the garage door opener motor head.
8. Strip 1/4 inch of insulation off the ends of the wire with a pair of wire strippers. Twist the two black wire ends together and insert them into the the gray slot on the terminal block. Twist the two white wire ends together and insert them into the white block next to the gray block.
9. Plug the power cord into the outlet. Check the lights on both sensors to ensure they are illuminating. If not, loosen the green LED sensor and adjust it up or down until it illuminates continuously. Place the lens cover back onto the opener and push until it snaps into place.
Tags: each sensor, door opener, garage door opener, right side, terminal block
The door gasket on your Sears Kenmore refrigerator ensures that the internal temperature for both the freezer and fresh food compartment is constant. The gasket, which is made of rubber, is compressed by the refrigerator door, forming an airtight seal. As the refrigerator ages, the rubber in the gasket may break down or become damaged, at which point you must replace it. The gasket in your Sears Kenmore refrigerator is secured to the door under pressure, rather than with screws or adhesive. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Open the door that has the damaged gasket.
2. Pull the gasket away from the door to remove it from the door channel. Often, grasping the corner of the gasket is the simplest way to remove it from the door.
3. Continue pulling the gasket away from the door until it comes off. Discard the old gasket.
4. Wipe down the door channel with a clean cloth to remove any debris.
5. Align the new gasket with the door channel then press it into the channel so that the indentation on the rear of the gasket fits into the channel.
6. Work your way around the entire door, pressing the gasket firmly into the channel until it is fully secured in place.
7. Turn a hair dryer onto the lowest heat setting and heat up any portions of the gasket that do not securely sit into the channel. Heating the gasket makes the rubber more pliable, allowing it to fit easily into the channel.
Tags: into channel, from door, door channel, your Sears Kenmore, away from, away from door
as soon as possible to replace and restore your SafeLink service.
SafeLink Wireless partnered with TracFone under a special U.S. government program available to low-income households. The SafeLink Wireless program provides these households with a free cell phone and free monthly minutes. Service may be renewed after one year if participants qualify. The TracFone features voice mail, text, call waiting, caller ID and limited international calling. If your cell phone is lost or stolen, you can request a replacement free of charge by immediately contacting a TracFone representative.
Instructions
1. Contact a TracFone service representative. Dial 1-800-867-7183 to report your SafeLink lost or stolen. Inform the representative of the estimated last date of use. Give a detailed description of where you may have lost the phone or how it got stolen.
2. Provide the representative with your mobile device's serial number or ESN found on your activation card. If you cannot locate the activation card, provide the representative with the cell phone number.
3. Request to keep your old phone number or apply for a new one. After the representative reports your cell phone lost or stolen, request that a copy of the report be sent to your active email address. Check your email address to make sure that you have received the email and a cell phone replacement confirmation number.
4. Expect the replacement SafeLink TracFone mobile device to be mailed to you within three to five business days, without cost. Check the contents upon arrival to make sure that the replacement cell phone, battery, charger, SIM card and activation card are intact.
5. To activate, call the number provided on your activation card. Provide the serial number, found on the activation card, and the SIM card code, found on the back of the SIM, to complete the activation process.
Tags: cell phone, activation card, lost stolen, cell phone lost, Contact TracFone, email address, lost stolen request
There are several reasons why a homeowner may want to refinance her current mortgage. Besides getting a lower rate or switching from an adjustable rate mortgage to a fixed rate loan, she may want to have a cash-out refinancing and receive some money back from the process. Circumstances have to be right for a cash-out refinance to work.
Refinance to a Larger Loan
A homeowner can get cash back from refinancing by getting a new mortgage for an amount greater than the current loan balance. For example, a homeowner currently owes $120,000 on his home loan. He refinances and takes out a loan for $150,000. Of the new loan amount, $120,000 goes to pay off the old loan and the homeowner receives the remaining amount as cash back from the refinance.
Equity Required
To refinance to a larger loan amount, a homeowner must have sufficient equity in the home. Equity is the difference between the home's appraised value and the current loan balance. If the homeowner who wants to get the $150,000 refinance loan has a home worth $200,000, he will be able to get a cash-out refinance. If the home is worth $125,000, it will not be possible to get cash from a refinance. The limit for a refinance loan is approximately 95 percent of the home's value.
Homeowner Considerations
A cash out refinance is a valid way to tap into a home's equity. The interest on a home mortgage may be lower than other types of loans. If the refinance is done in conjunction with a lower rate, the resulting monthly payment may not be much higher than the current payment. The homeowner must realize that the cash out is reducing the home equity, and the net amount realized if the home is sold is lowered.
Alternatives
Alternatives for a homeowner who wants to tap her home equity for cash include a second mortgage or home equity line of credit. The homeowner should compare the costs and interest rates of all three options. If the current mortgage has been in effect for quite a few years at a low interest rate, she may not want to refinance to a new 30-year mortgage. This could significantly extend the time to pay off the home.
Tags: home equity, back from, cash back, cash back from, cash-out refinance
While some people approach a leak or problem in the house with do-it-yourself attitude, this is often not an option for the elderly. Due to medical advances, the elderly population has grown by leaps and bounds. Combined with the fact that most elderly are retired and cannot afford extra expenses, this demographic can often be stuck with fix-it problems that need attention. Luckily, there are a number of programs to fill this void. Does this Spark an idea?
Types of Programs
There are many programs to fix homes for the elderly and disabled across America. These programs are generally government-sponsored or serviced by volunteer crew members who devote certain amounts of time a week to helping out those in need. The people who man the volunteer crews are often retirees themselves, so they have time to help out in the middle of a weekday or whenever they get a call. Some of these programs are completely free, while others will charge minimally to cover the cost of materials and supplies.
Who Helps Out
The volunteers who help out are not always retired handymen or former builders. Often, they are all different types of people who simply feel comfortable working with tools and figuring things out. Most of the volunteers are men, but the elderly who call are either men or women.
What They Do
In general, these groups and programs will perform minor repairs and fixes. For a large or major problem, a professional fix-it man will need to be called in. Sometimes, the job is as simple as changing a light bulb, but the senior citizen in need is not able to climb up a ladder to do it himself.
Why They Do It
Volunteer George Strauss who works with Chore Service in Bergen County, New Jersey, says the elderly population is so thankful for all the services they provide. "Even if you're just replacing light bulbs, people gush over us. What's better than that?" he told This Old House magazine.
Other volunteers report a sense of pride in being able to accomplish something productive and meaningful, while some enjoy the feeling of filling their time with good deeds. There is also the challenge of learning new skills at an age when many are taking it easy.
The Programs
There are more than 20 programs specifically made for the elderly and disabled listed on ThisOldHouse.com. They categorized the programs according to state and including their phone numbers and websites, if any, so it is easy to contact them. If you don't see your state listed, you can start your own group by finding a few able volunteers with basic fixing skills and a lot of free time. Appeal to your local or community government to see if they are willing to sponsor the materials, such as tools, a truck, pipes and other fixing essentials. Advertise your services by placing notices in places that the weaker elements of the elderly population frequent, such as doctor's offices and pharmacies. Start with small projects and work your way up as you gain more volunteers and expertise.
Tags: elderly population, elderly disabled, Programs There
Few neighborhoods will allow a full-scale auto body repair shop at someone's home. Zoning laws don't allow businesses such as these in residential neighborhoods. Neighbors are rightly concerned about what the mess and fumes of such an enterprise will do to their property values. An auto repair shop can be set up at home on a small scale if it's done with thought and consideration for the neighbors. If the shop is set up with careful planning, it can provide extra income without incurring the expenses of a commercial shop.
Instructions
1. Decide organize space for the shop. The garage will probably be the best space to set up an auto body repair shop because the repairman can work on the cars in the garage, out of sight of neighbors who are bothered by the work. Since auto body repair involves working with various chemicals and paints, make sure that there is plenty of cross ventilation in the space.
2. Secure the doors and windows of the garage. Store equipment and tools in the garage only after secure locks have been installed on all doors and windows and an alarm system installed.
3. Consult with a licensed electrician regarding wire the garage for the necessary electrical work. Decide which equipment will be in the shop so that the electrician knows whether three phase wiring will be necessary or not. (See Reference 3.)
Obtain three estimates for the electrical work before hiring an electrician. Make sure that everything is written down so that it's clear to all sides what the expectations are for the electrical work.
4. Complete an auto body repair course. While many auto repairmen learn their trade by apprenticing at auto body repair shops and through friends who work in the field, completing a course is the best way to stay on top of different techniques, new methods and new products that are on the market. It's also a good way to make contacts in the field. (See Reference 1.)
5. Buy the equipment needed to do auto body repair work. Equipment for auto body repair work can be purchased through the Internet. (See Reference 2.)
Buy the most basic equipment first. After completing the auto body repair course, decide which tools and equipment are vital to start the auto body repair shop. More tools and equipment can be added later.
6. Begin to advertise auto body repair services. Fliers, ads in local newspapers, local listserves and word-of-mouth are all good ways to start advertising. Remember that the shop should not annoy neighbors so don't take on more than two cars at once -- one car to work on in the garage while the second car is waiting in the driveway or on the street.
7. Register the shop with the federal and state tax authorities.
Tags: body repair, auto body, auto body repair, repair shop, body repair shop
Homepath Renovation Mortgages are available for Fannie Mae foreclosed properties.
A renovation mortgage is a mortgage that wraps the costs of small renovations and repairs into the total loan amount on a property. For select foreclosed properties under the Fannie Mae program, the Homepath Renovation Mortgage is an available loan product.
Significance
A homeowner interested in a Fannie Mae foreclosure property listed at $135,000 that requires $10,000 in renovations could close on a $145,000 loan and have the renovation cost wrapped into the mortgage at closing. The amount of eligible repairs will be on a case-by-case basis and is determined based on the borrower's credit history as well as the estimated cost for all renovations to a property, but should not exceed the total value of the property itself.
Down Payment
The down payment percentage on a Homepath Renovation Mortgage is set at 3 percent as of September, 2010.
Interest Rates
Buyers can select either a fixed rate or variable interest rate when selecting a renovation loan. The interest rates on Homepath mortgages will normally be competitive with market rates for home equity loans or lines of credit.
Property Eligibility
Only properties that had a loan serviced by Fannie Mae are eligible for Homepath Financing. This excludes Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) or Veteran's Administration (VA) foreclosures.
Incorrect cable connections and video inputs can cause your Samsung problems.
Although many rely on the help of a professional to make repairs on their Samsung Projection TV, many times the television's woes result from either improper cable connections or incorrect video input settings. You can handle the troubleshooting and repair of such problems on your TV within your own home, even if you lack any prior Samsung repair experience. No special tools will be needed and you can avoid opening your wallet for costly repairs.
Instructions
1. Check your Samsung Projection TV's power cable. Sometimes, the simplest possible problem is what's ailing your television, so eliminate this possibility first.
2. Check the connections you made with your audio/video cables. The cables and connections used vary depending on your exact model of Samsung Projection TV. If your TV is equipped with an HDMI port and you are using an HDMI cable for the video connection, make sure the square black HDMI cord is properly plugged into the "HDMI" port on the rear of the Samsung and also into the "HDMI" port on the back of your cable or satellite device.
3. Check your component video connection for your Samsung in the event you aren't using a HDMI cable connection. Components video cables feature dual sets of prongs, one on each end of the cable, and each set consists of one red, one green and one blue prong. One set of these prongs needs to be snugly plugged into the matching colored red, green and blue ports on the back of the cable or satellite receiver, and the other set of prongs must be plugged into the matching set of ports on the back of the Samsung. Incorrect prong-to-port connections can result in a lack of sound and/or video on your Samsung.
4. Attempt to switch your video input if everything checks out properly with your cable connections. Use the "Input" or "Video Input" button on your Samsung Projection TV in order to cycle through your inputs. Every time you use a DVD player or game system, you have to switch your video input in order to operate the device, so it's possible that you simply forgot to switch back to the input that governs your TV.
5. Check the Samsung's audio connection if, after your input adjustments, the Samsung still lacks audio. The audio cable has only a white and red prong on each of the cable's ends. As with the other cables, make sure the audio cable's prongs are properly plugged into the matching white and red ports on the backside of the cable/satellite receiver and the back of the TV.
Tags: Samsung Projection, your Samsung, plugged into, cable connections, cable satellite, HDMI port, into matching
Skirting insulates the home during summer and winter by creating a nearly dead-air space below the home. It protects your plumbing during freezing weather and prevents animals and pests from entering the space under the home. Available in aluminum and vinyl, the skirting prevents strong updrafts from lifting the home up off its piers. Skirting comes precolored and in several different styles, including imitations of rock and brick, which can add significant aesthetic value to the home. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Prepare the ground under the edges of the home. Remove any grass and weeds from the perimeter of the home. Level off any depressions of humps in the ground with a shovel. Cover the ground under the house with six-mil thick, polyethylene sheeting to prevent a humidity buildup under the home due to the addition of the skirting.
2. Position the baseboards under the edge of the home. Plumb down from the outer edge of the siding with a plumb bob. The plumb bob indicates the center of the base board. Lay the boards out around the perimeter of the home. Cut stakes from the treated baseboard material with a saw. Drive the stakes into the ground at each corner and joint to prevent the bottom of the skirting from being blown out of position. Slide a layer of roofing starter material under the baseboards to prevent vegetation growth and erosion near the baseboards.
3. Line the baseboards with the ground rail material. Dress the front edge of the ground rail to the outer edge of the baseboards. Form the corners in the ground rail according to the skirting manufacturer's directions with tin snips. Fasten the baseboards and ground channel to the ground with ground spikes. Place the spikes in the preformed holes in the ground channel at 16 inch centers, then drive them firmly into the ground.
4. Install the top trim pieces. Locate the desired position of the top of the skirting. Measure from the bottom of the home to the desired location height. Mark this measurement at each corner of the home. Stretch a chalk line between the marks and pop a chalk line down the sides of the home to give an accurate reference line to work to, in order to keep the top of the skirting straight. Screw or nail the top trim to the home according to the skirt manufacturer's instructions.
5. Cut the skirting panels to length with a wood saw that has the fine-tooth blade installed backwards. Use the cold weather or warm weather marks (depending on the temperature) on the top trim piece as a reference and adjust the length according to the ambient temperatures at the time of installation (shorter if it's cold, longer if it's hot) to allow for material expansion and contraction due to temperature changes.
6. Stand the skirting up, starting in one corner, then lace the skirting together using the specially-shaped edges on the skirting panels. Continue cutting and lacing until the entire home is skirted.
7. Install the trim front. Snap the trim front into the top trim piece. Do not butt the ends of the trim front, but overlap them one inch at the joints.
Tags: ground rail, trim front, chalk line, each corner, ground channel, ground under
It is difficult, but not impossible, to win a home makeover.
Home makeover shows have become increasingly common on television. If you have the slightest interest in decorating or renovation, you've probably watched one of these shows. Some makeover shows are simply about the project at hand, while others are more dramatic -- in these, a makeover crew may "invade" a family's home and renovate it while the family is on vacation. If you're interested in winning a free home makeover, regardless of whether you want to be on television, you need to know where to look. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Take a comprehensive number of photos of the room you wish to have renovated, or even of your home itself. Ensure your photos have adequate lighting and are in focus, so that whoever is reviewing them will be able to easily see them. The photos should explain why you are hoping to win a home makeover. In other words, they should demonstrate your lack of skill as a designer or decorator.
2. Watch as many home makeover shows as possible. These shows can include "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" and "While You Were Out." Television networks that often air this genre of show include ABC, Home and Garden TV, The Learning Channel and the DIY Network. When you watch these shows, pay special attention to the information contained in the credits. If you use a personal video recorder, you may wish to record the sensure you have time to read the credits. The credits often include information on apply for a home makeover.
3. Send a selection of the photos you've taken, as well as a write-up about why you hope to win a home makeover, to the contact address in the show's credits. Make your write-up as clear and concise as possible, and use the photos as evidence.
4. Visit home improvement stores in your town. Many of these stories, including Home Depot and Lowe's, often advertise home makeover or renovation contests. These contests may be sponsored by the store itself or by a brand that is sold in the store. Depending on the specifics of the contest, you'll need to fill out an entry form explaining why you would benefit from a home makeover, as well as provide photos.
5. Enter as many contests as possible. Because many other people will also be entering these contests, your chances of winning are slim. Give yourself the best chance of success by providing a quality entry (write-up and photos) and entering as many contests as you can find.
Tags: home makeover, home makeover, makeover shows, many contests, these shows
When house floors sag, there are many problems that can result. Floor cabinets in the kitchen and bathroom will no longer work properly, entry doors will no longer open and close properly, and walking across those floors will feel like a roller coaster ride. Repairing uneven floors can be done by the average homeowner who is willing to get dirty. Depending on the size of the project, it can be done in less than a day. Does this Spark an idea?
Tools
You will need several items to aid in the leveling of a sagging floor. The most important thing, although not a tool, is to have a helper. You will also need a 1/2-ton floor jack for raising the floor, a ball of nylon string for checking the floor adjustment and a line level to check the floor for level. Other items that will be helpful are : 8-inch concrete blocks for supporting the floor from underneath (four to eight blocks), 2-by-6-inch wood cut 16 inches long to go on top of the blocks and under the jack, wooden shims-- which can be cut from 2-by-6-in lumber or purchased at the hardware store--and a shovel for leveling the ground underneath the house.
Inspect
Check the high spots in the floor. You can use these high spots as reference for the rest of the floor. Using a nail, attach a nylon string from one side of the floor, at the wall, to the other side of the floor, at the opposite wall. Now you will have a good reference line for leveling the rest of the floor.
Prepare to Raise the Floor
Crawl under the house and find the center of the floor that you are leveling. You will need a minimum of a 1/2-ton floor jack to level the floor. Jack the floor from the closet floor joist to the center of the room, which may be 24 inches to the right or the left of the floor. Use a wooden 2-by-6 to set the jack on. Also use at least one 2-by-6 block for the top of the jack. Use 8-inch concrete blocks on each side of the jack and ready them for floor support. The floor height will be determined once you raise the floor. Also have some extra 2-by-6 blocking ready to go on top of the 8-inch blocks once the floor height is determined.
Block Placement
Jack the floor up while a helper is inside. Have the helper yell when the floor has leveled out inside. Once the floor has become level, set the 8-inch concrete blocks about 4-feet apart, one on each side of the jack. It may be necessary to stack the blocks--and add the wooden 2-by-6 boards (usually 16-inches long). Once you have closed the space between the wooden blocks and the bottom of the floor joist to less than 1 inch, use wooden shims to tighten the support.
Tags: 8-inch concrete, 8-inch concrete blocks, concrete blocks, 2-ton floor, 2-ton floor jack, each side, each side jack
Connecting your mobile home's plumbing may present some challenges. The most import thing to remember is that a mobile home is prone to much more movement than a traditional home. This makes a difference in the materials used to connect the plumbing system. Connecting the sewage system incorrectly may lead to expensive repairs and uncomfortable situations. A few basic rules apply to the plumbing hook-up of any mobile home. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Determine if the mobile home's sewage outlet and other plumbing fixtures are the same size as the corresponding sewage system's waste water pipe and other hook ups. Install the proper pipes, fittings, or adapters to connect the mobile home to the hook-ups if necessary.
2. Install iron pipe or PVC to connect the mobile home to the hook-ups. Consult the mobile home's manufacturer specifications to decide which best suits your needs. Always slope the pipes in the direction of the sewage system if the ground is not completely flat. Include a removable section to make maintenance easier.
3. Fit the rubber boot over the pipes and use the hose clamps to hold it in place. Make annual revisions of the boot and all other fittings to avoid problems from wear and material failure before they occur.
4. Brace the sewer connection pipes with braces placed under the system or hangars fixed to the underside of the mobile home to reduce stress. Over time, the weight of the sewage passing through may cause the system to fail.
Tags: mobile home, sewage system, connect mobile, connect mobile home, home hook-ups, Home Plumbing, Hook Mobile
There are a number of things that can cause problems with a DVD recorder.
Connecting a DVD recorder to your television set or home entertainment center can be a real convenience, but when that recorder stops working, it is important to get the issue resolved quickly. A number of things can cause problems with DVD recorders, so the best strategy is to work through each of the possible causes one at a time. By working through the possible causes in a systematic manner, you will be better able to determine the source of the problem.
Instructions
1. Locate the bypass hole on your recorder if the eject button is not working. The bypass hole will generally be near the eject button, but you may need a flashlight to find it. Insert a paper clip into the bypass hole until the tray ejects.
2. Look at the bottom of the DVD for any scratches or dirt. If the DVD needs to be cleaned, spray a small amount of water on it and wipe it off with a soft clean cloth, starting at the hole and working outward. Insert a different DVD and test to see if that DVD can be read.
3. Insert a lens cleaner DVD into the recorder and allow the cleaning process to finish. Then try to read and/or write a DVD again. It may take several cleanings to restore the laser in the DVD recorder to working order.
4. Unplug the DVD recorder and disconnect it from the TV. Allow the recorder to sit for a few minutes, then turn it back on and reconnect it. Doing a hard reset of the unit can often resolve problems.
5. Make sure the tray on the DVD recorder is sliding smoothly. If the tray is not operating properly, the laser will not be able to line up with the DVD for reading or writing. Watch as the tray slides in and out and make sure it is sliding smoothly. If the tray appears to be shifting to one side, check for any obstructions that may be causing the tray to skew.
Tags: bypass hole, cause problems, cause problems with, eject button, number things
Used mobile homes, if left in a state of disrepair, can become dangerous eyesores. With some modest financial and time investments, though, used mobile homes can be transformed into viable housing for tenants and a considerable income for you, the investor. This article will explain make money fixing up used mobile homes.
Instructions
Make Money Fixing Up Used Mobile Homes
1. Allocate enough space for this investment. Whether you intend to simply fix up mobile homes and sell them or start your own used mobile home dealership, you will need plenty of land to accommodate the mobile homes you rebuild. While some mobile homes may be repaired on site, many will require removal from their lot and must be towed--using either your own truck or a rented transporter--to your property for renovation. For renovating one home at a time, 1 acre of land should be sufficient, though large parcels may be necessary for more complex undertakings.
2. Locate an inexpensive used mobile home. After some use, mobile homes lose a significant amount of their financial value. Many homes--especially older models built before 1990--can be had for less than the price of a used car, and owners of mobile homes with serious issues or in need of extra renovation are sometimes willing to simply give them away for free. To find a used mobile home, browse online sites like eBay, your local Craigslist listings, or newspaper classifieds. A drive through a mobile home park may also yield some prospects, though many parks are private and not receptive to unfamiliar passersby.
3. Negotiate with the owner. When the owner of a used mobile home decides to part with the home, there may be some stipulations to keep in mind. Mobile homes that will remain in a mobile home park, for example, may require payment of a monthly "lot rental" fee that can amount to hundreds of dollars each month. Some owners require that the home be moved from the lot within a specified period of time, and still others may specify that, while the mobile home itself is for sale, add-ons like porches and carports must remain in place. Before signing any agreement with the owner of the mobile home, be sure to become familiar with all applicable fees and restrictions.
4. Move the home to your lot, if necessary. If the mobile home must be moved, use a truck with a powerful engine or hire a transporter to move the property. This task can be expensive and dangerous, so building a strong relationship with any assistants or transport companies may work to your benefit.
5. Complete any necessary repairs or updates. When the property is secured, begin remodeling the mobile home to repair any damage, update obsolete appliances or fixtures, apply fresh paint, and otherwise improve the appearance and integrity of the property. Keep in mind that mobile homes sometime make use of special lightweight materials (due to their mobile nature), and some older models may require extensive repairs in addition to modernization. Keep track of any expense related to the improvements you make, as this information will be useful when reselling the property.
6. Comply with all local laws. Some municipalities require special registration stickers and other considerations for mobile homes. Check with your local tax collector or county clerk to verify that any necessary taxes or endorsements have been obtained. In addition, it is critical to be in compliance with any local regulations regarding inspection of mobile homes or homes for sale; these regulations vary from area to area, but your local county clerk or municipal website should have information on steps to take before selling a mobile home.
7. Sell the rebuilt, improved or refurbished home. Set a price for the used mobile home that takes into account your acquisition and transport costs, all costs associated with the renovation process, and any licensing, subcontracting, or inspection fees you may have paid. Depending on where the used mobile home is located, you may choose to list it for sale in local media outlets, in online resources like Craigslist or by simply putting a "For Sale" sign in front of the finished product. If you chose to leave the mobile home on a lot in a mobile home park, you may have the option of renting it to potential tenants, possibly increasing the property's profit potential.
Tags: mobile home, mobile homes, used mobile home, mobile homes, used mobile, home park, mobile home park
Prospective college students in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, have several choices available. This city is the home of Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem State University and North Carolina School of the Arts, as well as Forsyth Technical Community College. Forsyth Technical is the only community college located in this city that also serves as the Forsyth County seat.
Forsyth Academic Programs
As a community college, Forsyth Technical prepares students for 190 different career paths. There are 61 programs leading to the Associate of Applied Science degree, plus another 20 leading to degrees in Associate of Arts, Science or General Education. Diplomas in 37 subject areas and 72 certificate programs are also part of the college's curriculum. In addition, there are 25 programs offered entirely online. Among the credentials earned by the 1,414 graduates in 2010, there were 806 associate degrees, 199 diplomas and 409 certificates.
Program Divisions
Academics are grouped into five program divisions. Business information technologies students acquire knowledge and skills needed in the business world, while the engineering technologies division instructs students in automotive repair, building trades and construction technologies, and graphic art, interior design and architecture technologies. Students in the health technologies program get the training needed to work with allied health technologies, while in the humanities and social sciences division they prepare for jobs or further education in teaching or human resources or for the Associate in Arts degree. The math, science and technologies program covers emergency medical science, criminal justice and Associate of Science degrees.
Admissions
The only general admission requirement for Forsyth Technical Community College is proof of high school graduation. This can be a high school or General Educational Development test transcript. Certain programs, notably in the health curriculum, have selective admission and require specific prior courses and GPA. Proof of one year of residency in North Carolina is required to qualify for the in-state tuition rate.
Continuing and Corporate Education
Forsyth Technical educational opportunities are not limited to traditional students. The college offers GED testing, and free adult high school courses are available online. Classes covering employment skills such as interviews and resume writing are available, as is English as a Second Language education. Business education runs from the support and skills offered at the Small Business Center to leadership and business management training for corporations. The Continuing Education program also offers a large number of personal enrichment courses for residents of the Winston-Salem area, including computer basics, art, home energy efficiency and log cabin building. Many of these classes are free to senior citizens age 65 and older.
Tags: Forsyth Technical, high school, North Carolina, Associate Arts, Community College, community college, Forsyth Technical Community
Basement walls that are constructed from blocks can require a number of different repairs over the lifetime of the wall, such as cracks, leaks and complete failures. The good news about basement walls constructed from blocks is that the repairs are manageable and effective. If your basement walls have blocks that need repairs, then you should know about the materials and techniques available for a successful repair. Does this Spark an idea?
Repair Cracks
Repair cracks in the blocks using hydraulic cement or concrete epoxy. Hydraulic cement can be purchased premixed or in powder form. Mix the powder form with sand and water to form a pancake batter consistency. Clean any loose concrete from the crack and pack the hydraulic cement into the crack using a masonry trowel and a small pointing trowel. Use the larger masonry trowel to hold the cement up to the crack and the smaller pointing trowel to push the cement into the crack. The hydraulic cement will expand and seal off the crack.
You can also fill and repair cracks by using concrete epoxy. The epoxy comes in a syringe and can be inserted into the crack by pressing the plunger with your thumb. Fill the crack full and level with the surface of the blocks.
Replace Blocks
Replace damaged blocks by chiseling them out with a brick chisel and a brick hammer. Clean all of the old mortar out of the opening, and replace the old block with a new block. Use type S mortar to bond the block into the opening. Spread the type S mortar onto the bottom and top of the new block, and slide it into the opening without pushing the mortar off of the block. Use a small tuck pointer to fill in the block joints tightly. Use a joint striker to strike the new joints, and sweep the block with a soft bristled brush.
Sealing the Wall
Seal a leaky block wall with concrete sealer. The sealer can be purchased in several different colors and should be rolled on using a paint roller. Sweep the wall with a broom, and dry the wall as much as possible before you apply the sealer. Make sure that the sealer penetrates the pours of the block wall. Apply several coats to ensure a proper seal.
Tags: into crack, basement walls, block wall, block with, blocks that, cement into
Manufactured mobile homes are built in large numbers and are ready to be shipped out immediately.
Manufactured mobile homes, or trailers, are an extremely cost-efficient form of pre-made, movable homes. People looking for a starter house or those with low incomes can easily purchase a manufactured mobile home on a flexible and affordable payment plan. With varying floor plans and double-wide mobile homes for those in need of additional space, there are options for every family. Purchasing a manufactured mobile home is simple but requires a slightly different approach than purchasing non-mobile housing.
Instructions
1. Obtain a rental space for your manufactured home a month before purchasing the home to ensure the proper preparations can be made beforehand. Rental spaces within mobile home parks come ready with all the necessary plumbing and electricity hookups. Alternatively, you can place a trailer on a piece of land you own, with certain restrictions.
2. Set up an inspection with a representative of the mobile home company. Mobile home manufacturers will normally cover the costs of transporting your new home to the desired location, but they must check the roads beforehand to ensure a smooth trip. They can also check for proper hookups, zoning (on personally owned land) and stability. Your mobile home grounds must be as level as possible for a stable home.
3. Save up five to 10 percent of the purchase price of your manufactured home as a down payment. In 2010, a new manufactured home could cost between $20,000 and well over $100,000, making down payments as low as $1,000 possible.
4. Seek out a payment plan through your manufacturer or a mortgage loan from a bank or lending company. Mortgages on mobile homes are usually easier to obtain, even for those with small incomes, because of the low cost of a mobile home.
5. Inspect your home thoroughly before moving in. Usually, the manufacturers provide a checklist to you when you purchase your mobile home to make sure everything is running smoothly. This will include instructions for testing appliances, doors, windows and other portions of your home for safety.
Tags: mobile home, mobile homes, manufactured home, your home, Manufactured mobile
Economists and businessmen alike often say that the greatest opportunities occur during a recessionary period in the economy, much like the one we are currently in. I hate to speak in such callous terms, but one person's misfortune can be another person's gain. When unemployment is on the rise and salaries are being "frozen" people will sell valuable items, like their cars, to help make ends meet. This is where people who can afford to take a little risk and have the disposal income available to buy these items do so, and then "flip" them for a profit. You may have heard success stories of people who have made a significant amount of money "flipping" cars, but keep in mind that this venture is not as easy as it sounds and you must be willing to tolerate some risk. "Flipping" cars has become just as popular as "flipping" houses so don't be surprised if you encounter some competition along the way, but like in any business competition is healthy.
Instructions
1. Knowing that you can make money buying and selling cars is one thing, but knowing which cars to buy and where to buy them is the million dollar question. Buying a car from someone who posted an ad in the newspaper probably isn't the best place to start. When dealing with another individual, it is difficult to gauge what condition the car is in, and odds are the car has some sentimental value to its owner making it more difficult for you to get a good deal on it. The best place to start look is at government auctions. Believe it or not, the U.S. Government seizes thousands of cars each year through their agencies (IRS, DEA, FBI), and auction them off at significantly discounted prices. Due to certain laws pertaining to auctioning off property that is seized, the government has no choice but to offer these vehicles at up to 90% off the original value. They have a wide range of car models because of the different types of people whose cars get seized or repossessed. Most of these cars seized by the FBI and DEA aren't your average Honda or Toyota. Criminals and drug dealers like to own nice looking cars so for the most part these are high-end models like BMW, Mercedes, Lexus, Acura, and Infiniti, most of which get auctioned off for between $10,000-$20,0000. Since the IRS and other banks repossess cars from average individuals due to backed taxes or a defaulted loan, you can also find good deals on Honda's, Toyota's, and Nissan's if that's more in your price range. These cars tend to sell anywhere from $2,000-$10,000. Lastly, if you attend a live auction it is important that you bring a mechanic with you to inspect the car. After the auction is closed and you are the winning bidder, you get one hour to inspect the car to make sure it is good condition. After that one hour, you are on the hook, so to speak, for the auction price of the car. A great site to learn more information about government auctions and to find an auction near you is http://www.governmentauctions.org/.
2. Now that you know where to buy significantly discounted cars, it is time to learn where the best places are to sell these cars for a profit. Let me start by saying that one of the worst places you could go is to a dealership. Remember, dealerships are in the business of making money by selling cars. It's difficult to sell a car for a profit when you are trying to sell it to someone else who also wants to make a profit from it. This is why you need to act as the car dealer and sell the car to someone who actually wants to own it. One of the easiest and most common ways to do this is by placing an ad in the newspaper. By doing this you are attracting people who are interesting in buying the car for ownership and not people looking to resell it for a profit (remember my first piece of advice on where not to buy cars for a profit). While this may be the easiest and most simplistic way to sell a car, in this day and age it is not the most effective or most profitable.
3. When you place an ad in the newspaper, it not only costs you money, but you are only attracting interest from local buyers. For those of you who are not very adept at using a computer, the newspaper may be your best bet. However, for those of you willing to broaden your horizons and reach out to more people, well then the computer, and more specifically the Internet, is where you want to turn to. A great website that is very similar to the classified section of your newspaper is http://www.craigslist.org. This site allows people from all over the country to list items for free on their website. They can list anything from job openings, to apartments for rent, to cars for sale. Craigslist allows sellers to get exposure outside of just the seller's local area. While it is unlikely for people in California to purchase something from someone in Florida, it is still possible. Craigslist does not operate like an auction, but rather as a fixed price classified ads section of a newspaper that is available to everyone. Sellers can write their own descriptions as well as include photos of the item for sale. While using Craigslist seems like an effective way to "flip" cars, it is not as reputable or as effective as another online site.
4. This brings me to the best and most effective way to flip cars for a profit, and that is to use eBay Motors, the automotive arm of eBay Auctions. For those of you who are not familiar with eBay and how it works, I will give you an overview of eBay's features and exactly what they offer. EBay provides online marketplaces for the sale of goods and services in the United States and internationally. The marketplaces provide online commerce platforms that enable buyers and sellers to interact and trade with one another. EBay is similar to Craigslist in that it provides an online platform to sell products where the seller gives a description of the item for sale and also can provide pictures if they choose. The difference is eBay allows buyers and sellers to find each other more easily regardless of location. Also, eBay operates in an auction format which allows the buyers to determine the final sale price based on the demand for the product being sold. The seller is allowed to determine what the auction price starts at and the duration of the auction, buy the bidders determine the final sale price. EBay has great features such as the "Buy It Now" feature and reserve pricing. The "Buy it now" option allows the seller to set a price at which someone can buy the item being sold without having to bid on it. This price is usually set well above the starting bid price. The "reserve" price feature allows the seller to set a price target that the item must reach in order for it to be sold. Both of these features benefit the seller by making sure the items are sold on their terms and not someone else's.
5. What really allows people to sell cars on eBay and make a profit is that people who look to buy things on eBay are looking for deals they can't get anywhere else. This is why it is important to make sure you get as good a deal as possible by buying cars at government auctions. You can easily sell a car on eBay for $2,000-$4,000 more than what you paid for it at a government auction, and the person buying it on eBay will still think they are getting a deal. Once an item is sold, the seller sets the payment terms and shipping options. Since cars can not be shipped, the buyer and seller often set up a place and time to meet and finish the transaction. To be safe, always make sure it is a place you feel comfortable where there are other people around just in case you suspect something might go wrong. This is where positive feedback comes into play. If other people have had positive transactions with you in the past, it make the transaction go that much smoother and make your customers feel more comfortable doing business with you.
6. Before "jumping in with both feet," I suggest you take some time to become familiar with eBay and eBay motors by visiting their site http://www.ebay.com and doing some research. You may find that "flipping" cars isn't as easy as it sounds and may not be worth your time. Keep in mind that making money on your own is never easy, and if "flipping" cars was as easy and successful as it sounds then everyone would be doing it. If you do decide that this is something you wish to pursue, people who treat this like their own personal business are more successful than those who take this less seriously. Like any business, adaptability is very important. Being able to stay ahead by keeping yourself informed of any new information is very important. I would also recommend selling some lesser items on eBay first before you start selling cars. This will allow you to become familiar with how eBay works through smaller transactions and also help build up your positive feedback. The most influential aspect of your eBay business is your feedback. What other people say about you and the recommendations, or lack there of, that they provide can be very influential and affect the amount of business you receive. From personal experience, I can say that "flipping" cars can be a very rewarding way to make some additional income. The hunt for the "perfectly priced car" that allows you to make a significant profit is like searching for buried treasure. This hunt can be fun and rewarding, but it can also turn into an obsession. Remember, that having fun is very important and you should never get too high or too low just because you had some success or encountered some difficulties.
Tags: cars profit, familiar with, familiar with eBay, flipping cars, government auctions, make sure
Clean your flat screen TV regularly to keep it working properly.
Panasonic offers a wide variety of consumer electronics that you can enjoy in your home. For example, you can purchase a Panasonic flat screen TV for you and your family to enjoy. Once you have your flat screen TV, you should learn properly clean and care for it. This will ensure that your TV continues to perform at optimal levels for as long as possible. Regular cleaning extends the life of electronics, and it can help protect your family against the harmful allergens found in dust buildup.
Instructions
1. Use a soft, dry towel to clean the screen and the monitor of your Panasonic flat screen TV. If necessary, you can dampen the cloth with a small amount of water to clean the screen, but not the monitor. Unplug the TV from the power source before cleaning it with water or any other liquid.
2. Create a cleaning solution of water and a small amount of mild detergent, such as dishwashing soap, in a bucket. Mild detergents can still vary in strength, so use the ratio recommended on the bottle, which is usually about two tablespoons for every 32 ounces of water. Never use cleaners that contain benzene, which is a flammable substance sometimes included in stronger cleaners that can damage the screen's picture.
3. Dip your cloth into the cleaning solution and wring it out thoroughly. Be sure it's not dripping at all.
4. Clean the rest of your unit with the damp cloth. Be careful not to get the cleaning solution on the monitor.
5. Use a clean soft cloth to thoroughly dry your entire Panasonic flat screen TV. Make sure it's completely dry before plugging it back into the power source.