Diy Exterior Stucco Repair

Stucco exterior walls

Stucco has been uses in architecture since ancient times but has only become a siding option in the 20th and 21st centuries. Stucco is a mixture of cement and water with substances such as sand or lime. Cracks and holes in exterior stucco will let in water to damage the structure beneath. Repair stucco as a DIY project; it may save money in the long run. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Repairing Minor Cracks

1. Brush out unfastened stucco from the area with a wire brush.

2. Fill crack with a stucco caulk running the caulk down the entire length of the crack.

3. Let the caulk dry for the recommended time given on the packaging.

Repairing Holes and Large Cracks

4. Brush out unfastened stucco from the area with a wire brush. Press on the surrounding areas to find a solid wall. Unstable walls that give under hand pressure may signify a larger problem.

5. Spread two to three thin coats of the pre-mixed stucco patch onto the damaged area with a trowel. Let each coat dry before applying another coat.

6. Match the existing area's texture by leveling out the last coat using a trowel. Dimple the area with the straw end of a straw broom to mimic the existing texture.

Tags: area with, with wire brush, area with wire, Brush unfastened, Brush unfastened stucco

Clean A Sewing Machine

Your sewing machine, like any other machine, requires regular maintenance in order to operate properly. By following these simple steps after every 8 to 10 hours of machine use, you will help ensure your machine's longevity and will be able to better enjoy your sewing experience.

Instructions

1. Unplug your sewing machine and remove needle, thread spool and bobbin.

2. Remove lint from the exterior of your machine by gently wiping the machine casing and exposed parts with a soft, lint-free cloth. Remove stubborn dirt stains with a dampened cloth and mild soap.

3. Use a small lint brush and/or canned, compressed air to remove lint from thread guides and other tight areas.

4. Move the slide plate toward you as far as it will go and remove throat plate as per instructions found in your owner's manual. Some throat plates can be snapped out of position, others must be unscrewed.

5. Remove lint from area in and around bobbin case with canned air and/or lint brush.

6. Remove excess lint from in and around bobbin case by removing bobbin case as per owner's manual instructions and using tweezers to extract lint that has been packed under or around bobbin case.

7. Place one or two drops of machine oil in oiling points indicated in either the owner's manual or on the sewing machine. The areas of your machine that require oiling will be determined by the machine model.

Tags: bobbin case, lint from, around bobbin, around bobbin case, owner manual, your machine, lint brush

Promote Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Promote Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. According to the National Cancer Institute, one in eight women will be diagnosed with this disease in her lifetime. With odds like that, if someone in your life has not yet been treated for breast cancer, it is probably only a matter of time. The good news is that prevention and early detection can save lives. It might seem like the problem is insurmountable. Happily, there are small steps anyone can take that can make a big impact. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Keep a bowl of candies on your desk at work, along with a small bank or jar. Make a note stating "Please Donate to Support Breast Cancer Awareness." Give the money you raise to an organization that promotes awareness and the search for a cure, such as the Susan G. Komen Foundation or the Avon Foundation.

2. Ask your employer to give all of female employees the afternoon or day off. The condition can be that one uses some of the time to get a mammogram.

3. Hold a bake sale. Sell baked goods with a pink motif. Hang a banner or sign stating that all proceeds go towards breast cancer research and awareness. Stuff printed postcards in each bag of goodies.

4. Visit the Breast Cancer Website every day. You'll see it listed in our Resources section. When you click a button to view ads, you help sponsor a free mammogram to an uninsured or under insured woman.

5. Call your mom, sisters, friends, cousins, aunts, or other female loved ones. Encourage them to schedule an annual exam and mammogram. Make a day of it, scheduling your appointments together. Celebrate your health, love and friendship by going out for lunch or to a movie after all exams have been completed.

6. Send cards to all of the women in your contact list, reminding them to have their annual checkup.

Tags: Breast Cancer, Breast Cancer Awareness, Cancer Awareness, Awareness Month, Cancer Awareness Month, breast cancer, Promote Breast

Repair A Broken Singlepane Aluminum Window

You can find glass pane replacements in the doors and windows department of most home repair stores.

Single-pane glass in an aluminum frame window is fragile and can break easily under pressure. These windows are often located in mobile homes and in prefab constructed homes because they are inexpensive. The replacement glass can be found at specially window shops and at home improvement centers. You can replace the broken glass in a single-pane aluminum window easily with a few tools and some caution. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Put on leather gloves and goggles whenever working with broken glass. Lay a dropcloth under both sides of the window to catch the broken glass. Carefully smash the rest of the glass in the pane up with a mallet. Grab stuck pieces with pliers to remove them from the frame. Remove all the glass from the window pane.

2. Remove the window frame from the window. Line up the sash hangers with the notches located at the top of both sides of the window channels. Slide the tabs on the bottom of both sides of the frame together to disengage them from the window channels. Slide the frame down and out of the window.

3. Remove the window frame's gasket by pulling it out from the inside of the frame with pliers. Measure the gasket's thickness and multiply it by two to find out how thick the new glass pane needs to be. Measure the length and width of the interior of the frame. Add the glass pane thickness to the length and width to find the size of the replacement pane. Take these measurements with you to buy the new glass pane.

4. Cover the edges of the new glass pane with the rubber gasket. Inspect the old gasket; if it has tears or is worn, then throw it away. Reuse old gaskets that are not worn out. Pull the gasket around the rim of the glass pane so that the gasket is tightly covering over the sharp edges of the pane. Cut off any excess gasket with scissors if needed.

5. Unscrew the screws located at the top corners of the frame. Slide the top of the frame up to give you room to slide the new pane into the frame. Allow the L brackets that connect the top of the frame and sides to stay located in the frame's corners to prevent them from twisting.

6. Position the glass pane into the frame. Line up the bottom of the glass pane and the sides of the frame. Slide the glass pane through the channels in the sides until the bottom of the pane reaches the bottom of the frame. Line the bottom of the pane up with the channel in the frame's bottom. Slide the top of the frame down over the top of the pane so the L brackets slide back into the sides of the frame. Lock the pane into place by reattaching the frame's corner screws and tightening them with a screwdriver.

7. Hold the frame upright, and slide the sides of the frame up and into the side channels in the window. Push the tabs at the bottom of the frame together to fit the bottom of the frame into the window. Allow the tabs to separate to lock the frame into place.

Tags: glass pane, sides frame, both sides, bottom frame, broken glass, frame into

Calculate Cost Of Adding A Second Bathroom

Renovating your house to include a second bathroom means more than just convenience; it means a more valuable home, too. Adding a bathroom can be a big undertaking, though, and you'll need the help of a few professionals. Still, it's a good idea to estimate your costs and budget before getting started. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Decide where the new bathroom will be. Unless you're willing to add a whole new addition to the house to have your extra bathroom, the new room will be formed from the existing square footage.

2. Measure your space and draw up scaled plans. If you're adding a full bathroom, you'll need room for a tub, toilet and sink. If you have enough space, consider installing a whirlpool or garden tub, as this will add even more value. If space is tight, consider just a toilet and sink for a half bathroom, or a walk-in shower to make it a "three-quarters bath."

3. Call local contractors to get estimates. You'll need a plumber to install the piping and drains and an electrician to run the power. If you want to do most of the renovation yourself you can cut down on labor costs.

4. Pick out fixtures you like, including a toilet, sink and bath tub/shower enclosure. You can get ideas online or you can go down to your local home improvement store. Write down prices so you can compare them later. Remember to include other necessities: sink fixtures, lighting, a pedestal or cabinet with countertop for the sink, painting supplies, a mirror or medicine cabinet, towel racks, a toilet paper holder, a faucet and shower head for the shower, switch plates and outlet covers and a door for privacy. Price flooring (according to the square footage) and lumber, insulation and drywall for making walls for the new room.

5. Add up the prices for the fixtures and accessories you have chosen. Add this to the professional installation of plumbing and electricity and you'll have an approximation of what your project will cost you.

Tags: toilet sink, means more, square footage

Create Catchy Slogans

brainstorming and taking notes

Catchy slogans come from a combination of focused market research and playful imagination. One without the other may not produce an effective marketing campaign but the combination can be extremely powerful. You will need to craft a clear concise message that summarizes your purpose and leaves no room for doubt. Beyond market research all you need is imagination and perhaps a creative team for brainstorming. Slogans are most effective when they reach a common ground with a mass audience.

Instructions

Marketing Principles

1. Review basic marketing fundamentals to help put a plan into perspective. Successful slogans cleverly depict where an idea, entity or movement fits in a market or community, which is why slogans are also called "positioning statements" based on "unique selling proposition." Another name for slogan is "tagline." One of the most important underlying concepts of marketing is to invent a category in which you can own leadership. The idea is to stand out in a crowd of rivals, not blend in. Ultimately, winning slogans create desired perceptions that trigger word of mouth reaction.

2. Make a list of key words that best describe what you want to promote. Create three separate columns for verbs, adjectives and nouns. Fill each column with as many words as possible, weak or strong, since you will be editing the list anyway. If you want to create a slogan about an event like a carnival, include all the images that instantly come to mind such as clowns, candy, rides, shows and children. Brainstorm with other people unless you are working solo and write down every possible idea.

3. Use a dictionary to find synonyms and related concepts to expand the lists as much as possible. The word circus, for example, may not have many synonyms but it has many related words such as carnival, fair, park and sideshow. Looking up any of those words in the dictionary will lead to other words. It's not necessary to have the most up-to-date or thorough dictionary even though meanings evolve over time. People will assign their own meanings to whatever words you choose. Careful choice of universally understood words can help direct those perceptions.

4. Make a copy of your rough draft of lists for future reference, and then begin crossing out the weakest words that you know won't work. Narrow down the lists to just the strongest words that communicate relevance and compelling persuasion. Eliminate confusion by deleting words that are not commonly understood by your audience. In order for the slogan to be appreciated by the widest possible audience, cross out any other words that may have too many connotations, which can blur the intent of the message.

5. Experiment with the remaining words by creating short phrases that sound and look desirable. Be as unique and original as possible. You want to own your slogan because you don't want your target market to confuse your message with some other campaign. Once you have words that paint essential pictures, add in conjunctions or connecting words that produce a sensible message. Then test the slogan with friends and followers to gauge the reaction. Rework the slogan until feedback is overwhelmingly positive.

Tags: words that, have many, market research, other words, want your

What Is Wild Yam Root

Wild yam root is an herb that was made popular during the nineteenth century. Herbalists used it to treat menstrual cramps and childbirth-related conditions and it is still used today. Always educate yourself before taking any herb, as it can interact with other medications and have adverse side effects. Does this Spark an idea?

Description

Wild yam is a perennial vine. It has light brown, woody tubers. It should not be confused with sweet potato yams. Sweet potato yams have fleshy roots whereas wild yams roots are dry and not fleshy. This vine can grow up to thirty feet and has clusters of small greenish, white to greenish or yellow blossoms. The leaves are heart shaped with a smooth surface. Wild yam is also known as colic root, yuma, devil's bones, rheumatism root and China root. There are two species of wild yam, one that is native to China and one that is native to North America.

History

There was a medical movement during the nineteenth century known as the Eclectic medical movement. It was during this movement that wild yam became popular where it was used for biliary colic and spasm of the bowel. Today's herbalist believe that it can be effectively used to aid in nausea during pregnancy, rheumatoid arthritis, cholera, urinary tract infections and nervous excitement. There is no scientific evidence to prove that wild yam is an effective treatment for these conditions.

Forms

This root is available as a liquid extract or as a powder. The powder comes in capsules or tablet form. There are also creams that contain wild yam. The powder form is used to make a tea that can be taken three times a day. Very often, wild yam is combined with other herbs such as black cohosh. This combination is purported to have estrogen-like effects. Check all ingredients when purchasing an herbal product that contains a combination of herbs.

Misconceptions

Wild yam has been said to be a natural source of estrogen and that it is an effective treatment for osteoporosis and hot flashes due to menopause. There is no scientific evidence proving that this is the case. It has also been said that wild yam will lower cholesterol. Scientific studies are inconclusive and more testing and research is necessary.

Precautions

As with any medication or supplement, herbs can interact with other drugs, herbs, or supplements that one is taking, producing side effects. Herbal supplements and treatments should not be taken without consulting your doctor. This cannot be stressed enough, especially if you are being treated for any other conditions. Anyone who has a history of hormone-related cancer should consult with a doctor before taking a natural hormone replacement such as wild yam root.

Tags: that wild, with other, been said, before taking, during nineteenth, during nineteenth century

Prioritize Issues

Prioritizing issues helps you organize your day.

With busy schedules and full lives, many people struggle with time management and prioritizing life issues in their daily schedules. Even the most well-intentioned individual feels overwhelmed at times, and the ensuing stress of feeling out of control can negatively impact your life. Through prioritizing issues in the order of importance, you can learn to manage your life effectively.

Instructions

1. Set goals. Write down everything. Think about what you want to do as you look toward the future. Whether it's a skill or talent, traveling, time with family, restoring relationships or something smaller, list what you need to do in the future. Schedule time for activities that work toward those goals.

2. Put your goals in order or in sections. Some people make a "bucket list" of things to do before they die. Others group goals into categories, such as family, career, recreational and self-improvement or spiritual. Others assign letters A, B and C, according to a code. Letter A represents important and urgent activities. Letter B signifies important activities. Letter C represents the least important activities. These priorities can change, so review them every six to 12 months.

3. Schedule your day. A typical schedule could include three items from your A list, two of your B goals and one of your C goals. For scheduling, you can use a daily planner or an online tool. Build time into your schedule to manage daily tasks like cooking and de-cluttering. Work around your body clock, according to your body needs. Attend to A priorities when you are at your best. Stick to your schedule to be effective in completing your goals.

4. Compensate for unforeseen events. Whether it's an emergency with your child at school or a friend who wants to meet for lunch, the unexpected will happen. Juggle your schedule so that you manage it, if needed, not so it rules you.

Tags: your goals, your schedule, activities Letter, goals your, goals your goals

Prioritize House Repairs

When prioritizing household repairs, put cosmetic tasks at the end of the list.

House repairs can be intimidating because of the cost and effort they require, especially if you see a whole bunch of problems that need to be dealt with at once. You can reduce your stress by prioritizing the repairs. Focus on taking care of the most important items first--especially those involving safety--and then handle the other problems one by one.

Instructions

1. Identify problems that will cost even more to repair if put off, or that present a danger in your house. These include roof and foundation problems, water damage, problems with a water heater and broken windows. If you're having trouble with your home's electrical system, make it one of your first priorities. Faulty wiring is an immediate safety hazard.

2. Take care of security threats, such as broken locks, a damaged fence or a malfunctioning alarm system. (A busted lock on any of your doors should be one of your very first priorities.)

3. Address problems with flooring and stairs, as they can threaten safety. For instance, loose or broken steps should be fixed as soon as possible. Deep cracks in ceilings could indicate a problem in the joists that affects the safety of the floor above.

4. Repair or upgrade appliances, one by one, in order of importance. For example, repairing your stove should rank above fixing your washing machine, because you can always go to a laundry. Put refrigerator repairs at the top of the list, as spoiled food represents a significant loss of money (as is eating takeout because your fridge doesn't work). As you replace appliances, focus on energy efficiency. This is also a good time to upgrade windows and insulation.

5. Perform general maintenance on fixtures, such as faucets and lighting. Have your duct system cleaned to improve the air quality in the home.

6. Take care of cosmetic repairs last. If you can still live comfortably without doing the repair, then it classifies as cosmetic. This might include new cabinets for your kitchen, a complete remodel of your bathroom or basement, repainting or putting in hardwood floors.

Tags: first priorities, problems that, problems with, Take care

Become A Auto Body Technician I

Finding Auto Body Technicians for a body shop is challenging as there are fewer young people entering the field. One reason is because those young people who go to school often aren't hired for more than light hit body men, because shop owners know the capabilities of recent graduates. However, there are ways to come out better prepared and pay the dues needed to become a full fledged journeyman.

Instructions

1. Enroll in the high school class that will get you an internship at a body shop. Be prepared that you will not be put to work on vehicles. Be sure that your instructor makes it clear that you are there to work on the vehicles not just act a porter or car washer during the times you are site.

2. Ask for a job after school moving vehicles and washing cars. The time you spend detailing cars will give you a new respect for masking off your journeyman work. It will also make you pay attention to how vehicles are put together. It will teach you attention to detail, a skill you will need for working on vehicles. Also, it will allow your coworkers to watch you. They will put their time and energy into training a person that is a hard worker and someone that they like. You will earn their respect as you work hard to make the job come together.

3. Over time you most likely will get more responsibilities such as replacing rear view mirrors, back panels, and other small pieces of work. This is the beginning of light technician work. You will slow every job down as you learn, but most technicians remember how hard it was for them the first times. Find the ones who are willing to let you slow them down in return for speeding them up by taking on some of the work for them. Sooner or later people will take the time to teach you.

4. Take any I-Car classes the owners tell you about, or request information from the human resources person concerning I-car classes. Keep track of your records and be prepared to present them if you seek employment in the future elsewhere. Gold I-Car educated employees are an asset to any business and employers are glad to see you have kept up on the latest in your industry.

5. Ask the owner about any additional training he/she can get you into. This includes frame rack training that is provided on site by frame rack trainers. Ask the body men if you can watch as they set up vehicles, and use your federally mandated breaks to do so. Then if you have the money or financial backing to go to school, consider it. However, it is not necessary if you already have a staff willing to train you.

Tags: Auto Body, body shop, frame rack, that will, work vehicles, work will

Are There Business Grants For Disabled Veterans

Are There Business Grants for Disabled Veterans?

The VA is allotted funds each year to issue grants to firms and institutions for much needed research, development, and testing of VA benefits, systems and other activities. Unfortunately, there is no such grant and never has been. What the VA does offer are special programs designed to assist service-disabled, veteran-owned small businesses.

VA Grants for Start-up and Expansion

Unfortunately, no federal agencies, including the Veterans Administration, offer grants (non-repayable payments) to service disabled veterans for the sole purpose of starting, supplementing or expanding a business of any size.

VA Specialized Grants

These grants are often offered under special set-aside processes that allow veteran and service-disabled, veteran-owned businesses a better opportunity to acquire them. However, these funds are earmarked and must be spent on the program they were intended to support.

Grant and Contracting Assistance Programs

Certain programs exist that are designed to allow veteran-owned small businesses (VOSB) and disabled veteran businesses helping other vets (SDVOB) to compete for and win federal contracts and research grants. These programs are set-aside contracting processes, mandated small business sub-contracting plans for large corporations, veteran small business assistance and support and veteran small business loan qualification assistance programs.

SADBU Offices

Every federal agency and department has a Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (SADBU) office attached to it. These offices are specifically tasked with identifying and assisting small business concerns, such as veteran-owned businesses. SADBU officers can often walk veteran small business owners into meetings with key decision makers.

SBA Assistance

The Small Business Administration's (SBA) primary purpose is to assist small businesses. This is especially so for service-disabled, veteran-owned small businesses and veteran-owned small businesses. The SBA is skilled in assisting veterans in developing business plans, formulating marketing plans and qualifying for much needed small business loans.

Tags: small businesses, veteran-owned small, veteran-owned small businesses, service-disabled veteran-owned, small business, small business

Prioritize A Fishbone Diagram

A large group can contribute more ideas.

Fishbone diagrams, also called Cause and Effect diagrams, are used not to find solutions to a problem but to think through and identify the root cause of a problem. When an issue might have several causes or appears extremely complicated, it is helpful to create a tool such as the fishbone diagram to understand deal with the problem. This approach combines brainstorming with the use of a concept map that can sometimes look like the skeleton of a fish. Prioritize your fishbone diagram to make it most effective.

Instructions

1. Each flip-chart sheet can be kept for easy referral.

Identify the problem. For instance, if your company manufactures food products, and metal was found in one recent food shipment, draw a rectangular box on a sheet of paper on a flip chart and write "Pieces of metal in the food" inside the box. Think of the problem as the head of the fish. Draw a horizontal line across the paper extending from this box.

2. Different colored markers can be used to identify each factor.

Write down as many causes or factors that you feel might contribute to the problem---for instance, personnel error, machinery error, insufficient maintenance or faulty containers. Highlight each cause or draw an oval shape and write each heading inside the oval. Place each oval or highlighted word in the middle of the page, above and below the horizontal line.

3. Ask yourself for each factor, "why does this problem occur or happen?" Write an answer, for example "inattention to detail" for personnel error. Do this for each factor and draw a dark vertical line from each of these "whys" to connect it to the factor word. You can create as many lines as needed. Think of them as the bones of the fish.

4. Each step should move you forward to your goal.

Use the fishbone diagram as a visual means of identifying the problem and prioritizing the steps required to deal with the problem. Rearrange the factors and issues as necessary.

Tags: each factor, deal with, deal with problem, fishbone diagram, horizontal line, personnel error, with problem

Paint A Mobile Home

Image courtesty of AKA Kath at http://www.everystockphoto.com/photo.php?imageId=986689

You can give your mobile home a very nice face lift with a good pressure washing and a fresh coat of paint. Not only will it give your home cosmetic appeal, it can extend the life of your aluminum siding as well. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Pressure wash the outer exterior of the home and allow to dry. Inspect the exterior for any dents and repair those if necessary. Caulk any holes or cracks around windows. Allow caulking to dry.

2. Sand down any rusted spots or scratches on the aluminum siding and apply the primer. Allow this to dry. Cover any areas that you do not want to be painted such as windows or doors with plastic sheeting and tape.

3. Make sure the siding is completely dry then apply one coat of primer. Allow this to dry completely before applying the next coat of paint. Primer allows the exterior paint to adhere to the siding without flaking. Then spray on the acrylic latex exterior paint. Allow to dry completely

Tags: Allow this, aluminum siding, coat paint, exterior paint, give your, primer Allow

Hardship Grants

Screen yourself for both government grants and benefit programs at Benefits.gov.

If your savings are dwindling and you've exhausted your family for financial help, it may be time to allow grants to carry you through hard times. One word of caution: though it may seem like the government gives free money to the needy, these are very rarely grant programs. Instead, they are benefit programs, which aren't free -- rather, they are funded by taxes. You may qualify for government benefits if you are disabled, elderly, pregnant or low-income. Otherwise, it may be time to start sending out grant applications.

Disaster Relief

The Federal Emergency Management Agency grants financial aid to people who have lost their homes or belongings in a natural disaster through the Individuals and Households Programs (IHPs). The IHP for housing provides grant assistance to low-income, underinsured people to help rebuild their homes. The IHP Housing program also pays for temporary housing during a presidentially-declared natural disaster. Additionally, IHP also has a grant program to help people pay other expenses that aren't covered by their insurance, including damage to personal property and medical bills.

Job-Related and Student Grants

Transitioning between jobs and obtaining an education during hard times can be very costly. Professional fellowships, career-related grants and student grants exist to help you foot the bill of a major career change. The National Endowment for the Arts awards grants to artists, musicians, writers and craftsman to aid them with the expenses of career-related projects (nea.gov). The government also grants money to low-income students of all ages to help them pay for college. For example, the federal Pell Grant awards up to $5,550 to each student per award year, and the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) awards up to $4,000 (fafsa.ed.gov).

Home Energy Grants

If your utilities bills have been piling up and you're worried about losing your home energy service, the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) may be able to help. Because of the dangers associated with a lack of heat or cool air during appropriate seasons, the government grants money to low-income people to help them pay for home energy. LIHEAP grants money to individuals whose income does not exceed $16,245. Guidelines are different depending on how many people live in the home. Contact your state's LIHEAP office to apply or call 866-674-6327 for more information.

Surviving Dependent Grants

Dependents of deceased military men and women, emergency relief workers, firefighters and civil servants may obtain unique grants. The Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant helps pay tuition and school fees for students under 24 who lost a parent in military service. Some states grant money to surviving dependent spouses and children of public workers: for example, the Law Enforcement Personnel Dependents Grant Program (LEPD) in California awards up to $11,259 to dependents of those killed in public service. Dependent students who lost a parent to breast cancer may qualify for aid through the Mary Ellen Locher Foundation (melfoundation.org). Don't overlook local nonprofit organizations and your own employer for grant money, either: there may be a specific fund for someone suffering through your exact circumstance.

Tags: grants money, benefit programs, government grants, grant money, grants money low-income, hard times, help them

Get Government Grants For Home Repair

There are grants available to help repair your home.

For many people living on small or fixed incomes, home repairs fall under the "luxury spending" category, and neglecting to make repairs over time can make a house unlivable. Senior citizens or handicapped individuals also may need their homes adapted to accommodate their special needs. Home-repair grant funding originates mainly from the U.S. Housing and Urban Development Department or the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Rural Department.

Instructions

1. Contact your local city or county housing office for available aid programs. The Federal HUD program provides funds for the Community Development Block Grant Program, which allocates grant money to several different programs in various states, at local levels, to award grants and loan guarantees. Investigate all of the details for each program. Even though they are called grant programs, many of the assistance programs are actually loans, but qualified applicants do have a few true grant programs available to them.

2. Check with your local energy company for government grants in the form of subsidies. For example, Illinois offers financial subsidies to residential, commercial and industrial customers in exchange for the installation of new, energy-efficient equipment. The Illinois Department of Commerce advises consumers to contact their local power provider for information on these subsidies.

3. Review the applicable grants available on the U.S. Department of Agriculture's rural development website at Rurdev.usda.gov. These include repair and improvement grants for very low-income homeowners, for issues such as the removal of safety or health hazards and the modernization of the home. Homeowners in certain areas may qualify for grants to pay for water and waste-water hookups, as long as they meet low-income guidelines. The website lists contact details for rural development offices by city, area and state. Interested parties must contact the office to request an application.

4. Obtain, complete and submit your applications. Be aware that the process might take time and you could be required to provide documentation of your age, disabilities, energy-saving equipment purchases or non-profit status in the case of organizations seeking funding to provide needy, low-income families with home-building or repair assistance.

Tags: Department Agriculture, grant programs, grants available, rural development, your local

Write An Estimate For Home Improvement

When you're trying to get business for your contracting company, it's important that your interactions with customers are professional. Writing a clear and detailed estimate for a home improvement project is part of being professional. It can also help protect you if you and the client have a misunderstanding after the work is done and the dispute goes to court. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Take some detailed notes about the current condition of the home to be improved. If you're going to fix a roof, to make a sketch that notes the pitch of the roof, the current state of the shingles and so on. This way, if there's a problem after your repairs, you have a way to remind the homeowner what everything looked like before you picked up your hammer.

2. Discuss the desired repairs with the homeowner extensively. While some homeowners have a really good idea of what you will have to do, some will have unrealistic expectations. As you talk with the customer, offer them lots of options with educated guesses of the relative costs of each option. Keep running notes about this discussion so you have a record of it.

3. Format your estimate in as professional a manner as you can. If you don't have printed estimate forms, get some. These should have the name of your business, contact information, insurance information, disclaimers and so on. Software programs, such as The Contract Add-Vantage, can make this step easy. Having printed forms also leaves a professional impression.

4. List all of the agreed-upon repairs on separate lines, including a price for each. If possible, inform your customer of the costs of each major component of the job to demonstrate that you're not trying to charge too much for parts.

5. Use as much specific language as you can. Instead of writing, "replace shingles," you should go into detail: "Remove old shingles and haul them away. Prepare roof for new shingles, then install them." This specificity also helps your client realize what is involved in the job.

6. Have the customer sign the final estimate. After that, any changes, whether you make them or the client makes them, should be initialed to reflect the change. If you are forced to make a change to the estimate, particularly if it increases the cost of the repair, be sure to make a note of it after you call the customer.

Tags: costs each, notes about, will have

Do It Yourself Boat Repair

You can spend money on the boat or time on the boat

If you own a boat, you can make many needed repairs or modifications yourself. This empowering statement comes with a warning, though. Be aware of the warranties on your boat's systems. Keep copies of the receipts when you purchase parts or equipment. If you attempt a repair on a system or part that is under warranty, your warranty will probably be voided by your efforts. A free warranty repair is cheaper than the cost of the gas you'll burn to buy parts to fix it yourself. Otherwise, you are only as limited as your imagination and skills.

Hull Repairs

Repair hull damage first. Structural repairs are your top priority. Cosmetic repairs can wait until the major work is done. Even if they are cosmetic, an understanding of the process of applying fiberglass and the internal structure of your boat will prove helpful. If you have never undertaken fiberglass repairs, it might help if you apply the epoxy and fiberglass to a piece of scrap wood and begin to develop the skills necessary by practice.

Wooden boats require carpentry skills. Metal hulls--whether steel or aluminum--require the skills of a metalworker--welding and burning, cutting and fitting--to make hull repairs that are watertight and strong enough to withstand regular use.

Interior Repairs and Modifications

Make your interior repairs and modifications in much the same way as you would make repairs to your home. Lighting, both navigational lights--your red and green bow lamp and your stern lamp--and interior lighting are no different from those in your house, except that they are generally lower voltage. Since reading and cabin lighting has largely gone to LED lighting in recreational boats, installation is more about running the wiring than installing the light.

Seating is another area you can undertake with a level of confidence. Vinyl repair kits mean that repairing torn vinyl seat covers now takes hours, rather than weeks, and you can make the repairs in your driveway instead of going to an upholstery shop.

Marine entertainment systems are another area that many boat owners tackle for themselves. Most marine suppliers offer a wide variety of audio-visual systems designed specifically for the boater. They are water and moisture resistant and can be installed quickly. Plastic wiring channels mean that it is no longer necessary to "dig into" the walls and deck to run your speaker wire and power cables, and specially designed dish antennas with an automatic satellite tracking function mean that you can still watch your favorite shows while you enjoy your boat.

Glass and glazing is another repair you can effect; modern boat windows are easily removed with a screwdriver and patience.

Most control systems, like electronic throttles or even pedestal captain's chairs with the throttle and steering controls built into the armrests--think Star Trek--can be installed in less than a weekend. GPS and other navigational systems are plug-and-play systems.

Rigging, Engine and Power Systems

Engine repairs, whether for boat or car, are strikingly similar. The engine might even be the same if you drive a Ford, Chevy or Chrysler. You may find that you have more room to work on your boat's engine than on your cars.

Sailmaking is a special craft. Minor sail repairs, though, are a few hours' work with kits available from most marine suppliers. Mast and spar repair may be a weekend's work, depending on the type of damage and whether or not you have the metalworking skills. If you have an mechanized sail-furling system, repair should be undertaken by trained technicians.

Tags: your boat, mean that, repairs your, another area, make repairs, make repairs your

What States Do Not Allow Studded Tires

What States Do Not Allow Studded Tires?

Studded tires have small metal protrusions inserted into the rubber to improve tire-road friction in bad weather conditions like snow or ice. Although studded tires help drivers in bad weather, some states restrict the use of studs or ban them because of the damage to road surfaces.

Description

The average studded tire is a winter tire that has 60 to 120 small metal studs inserted into it. These studs are made of tough metals like tungsten. The studs are placed in the tire in such a way that even as the tire wears down, the studs maintain a consistent protrusion length.

State Regulations

Ten states prohibit studded snow tires: Alabama, Texas, Florida, Maryland (exception five mountain counties), Louisiana, Hawaii, Illinois, Minnesota, Mississippi and Wisconsin. The District of Columbia and 33 states have seasonal restrictions: Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Virginia, Washington, and West Virginia. Seven states allow unrestricted use of studded tires: Colorado, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Kentucky, New Mexico, Vermont and Wyoming.

Seasonal Restrictions

Seasonal restrictions in most states are set around the winter season. The average state allows the use of studded tires from the beginning of October or November until the end of March or April. Some states have weather-related restrictions, rather than seasonal; studded tires are permitted during snow or ice conditions, regardless of the time of year.

Warning

Many states that prohibit studs do not allow exceptions for non-residents who are passing through or visiting. If you are caught in a state that prohibits studded tires, you can be fined and ticketed.

Considerations

If you have studded tires on the front axle of your car, you must also place them on the rear axle for better handling and stability. Studded tire regulations can change, so periodically check with officials in your area before using them.

Tags: Allow Studded, Allow Studded Tires, inserted into, small metal, States Allow Studded, states have, studded tires

Marine Repair Shop Tools

Boats large and small need care and attention.

Marine craft includes all waterborne vessels -- with or without engines -- made from several different types of material including wood, fiberglass and metal. There are so many different kinds of craft that many marine repair shops tend to specialize. Tools required in marine repair shops may vary from saws and hammers to large hoists and innovative apparatus.

Woodworking Tools

Richard Kolin's advice on useful tools for the mariner comes from the perspective of a boat builder rather than someone repairing a sea craft, but many of the techniques required and tools needed are the same. Kolin's account of how he built the 12-foot skiff Heidi contains many tips on make the vessel seaworthy. His list of tools includes planes, spokeshave, chisel and files, all of which are useful for shaping particular sections of the boat, such as side planks, keel and skeg -- the sternward extension of the keel. Of these shaping tools, the spokeshave is perhaps the least well known. This is a two-handed tool used to shape more complex pieces, such as the all-important paddles. Also on Kolin's list are a hammer, saws, sharpening stones, clamps and, perhaps the woodworker's most useful tool, a pencil.

Engine Tools

Powerboat enthusiast Allen Berrien likes to give rigorous attention to the engines of his boats, preferably when they are not out at sea. Emphasizing the importance of the role of spark plugs in the engine, Berrien recommends an air-gap spark checker and even recommends a company who can supply one, namely Stevens Instrument Company. Otherwise known as a spark tester, the device tests the ignition system and wires of the marine engine. Stevens can supply two-, four- or eight-wire spark checkers. Stevens also recommends a more humdrum tool, the screwdriver, but suggests you stay away from cheap versions and buy tools of quality. Berrien saves his highest praise for locking pliers. He suggests they may be the handiest tool ever invented, as they have a seemingly endless number of conventional uses -- such as holding, cutting and snipping wire and other items -- and not so conventional uses -- such as serving as temporary emergency handles.

Specialist Tools

Texas boat repair specialists Lake Conroe Marine, LLC, are able to repair damaged skegs, props, propellers and pontoons. In their marine repair shop are welding equipment, engine tune-up tools and pitch blocks, used to restore the pitch angles of damaged props to factory specifications. Rosden Glass Fibre of Jersey, a British Crown Dependency off the French coast, claim they have the tools and expertise to repair any boat. They have a large hoist to accommodate yachts up to 75 feet, full carpentry and fiberglass shops and a spray bay for repainting. They also have Hotvac, a patented tool for treating the problems and causes of osmosis, or water penetration.

Tags: conventional uses, conventional uses such, marine repair, marine repair shops, repair shops, uses such

Remove A Small Dent From A Car Door

Old cars may have dents that can be removed.

Dents in a car are unappealing and lower the vehicle's resale value. The good news is that dents are easy to remove with just a few tools. You will not need an auto body technician to take out small dents or dings in your car. If you use some professional dent removal techniques, the car will end up looking like new, and there is no need to repaint the area either.

Instructions

1. Inspect the dented area and determine the width and length of the damage. Locate the ends of the dent and take careful note of them.

2. Use a hairdryer to heat the entire area of the dent. Hold the hairdryer just a few inches from the metal and move it across the entire surface area of the damage. Do this for 30 seconds or more to heat the dented metal.

3. Turn a spray can of liquid carbon dioxide (available at any auto parts or hardware store) upside down and spray it on the dented surface immediately after applying heat from the hairdryer. Cover the entire dented area, focusing on the deepest parts of the dent first.

4. Wait several seconds after applying the liquid carbon dioxide and listen for the dent to pop out on its own. If this does not occur, wipe off the liquid CO2 with a clean rag, and repeat Steps 2 and 3.

Tags: after applying, carbon dioxide, dented area, liquid carbon, liquid carbon dioxide

Repair A Brick Foundation

Repair a Brick Foundation

A cracked or breaking foundation is no laughing matter. Any kind of breach to your foundation can cause serious problems in the way of leaking, flooding and structural problems. If you notice that your brick foundation is cracked, make sure to address the problem right away, to prevent any further damage. Repairing a foundation is a quick process, here is do it. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Clean out the old mortar from the cracks. The best way to do this is to use a screwdriver or putty knife to pry the chipped and cracked mortar out. Use a wire brush to brush away any loose pieces, and finally wipe out the area with a towel.

2. Mix your mortar. Begin by mixing two parts sand to one part of cement in a large bucket and mix extremely well. It should be grey in color when you are finished mixing.

3. Add the water to your sand and cement mixture. Move the dry ingredients to the side of the bucket and slowly begin pouring in water. You are looking for a consistency much like cake batter. Add water slowly, stirring constantly until you reach that consistency.

4. Spray water evenly on the area of the foundation that you will be applying the mortar to. This helps it to adhere and is especially important if you live in a warmer climate where it is dry.

5. Apply the mortar with a trowel to the cracks in the brick foundation. Push the mortar firmly into the cracks to force it as far in as possible. Scrape off the excess with the trowel.

6. Wait for the mortar to dry 24 hours, and use the wire brush to sand and brush away any loose particles.

Tags: away loose, Brick Foundation, brush away, brush away loose, Repair Brick, Repair Brick Foundation

Obtain Disabled Veteran Business Grants

Obtain Disabled Veteran Business Grants

Disabled U.S. veterans have a plethora of government agencies and private organizations dedicated to enabling them to start or expand a small business. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and The Veterans Corporation are both good potential resources for the disabled small business owner who is a U.S. veteran.

Instructions

1. Go to Business.gov to find all federally funded programs available to disabled veterans. Your decision of where to apply will be based on whether you want to start or expand your business.

2. Complete all paperwork involved in applying for a grant. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has a special branch called "The Center for Veterans Enterprise" (see References section). This organization outlines the following crucial steps to take in order to gain a grant to start a business. A written outline of the business idea comes first, followed by a business structure, a business plan, a review of the business plan, implementation of the business plan, and finally, registration of the veteran-owned business.

3. Contact the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the U.S. Small Business Administration to see which specific grants you qualify for. In 2010, programs for disabled veterans included the Patriot Express Pilot Loan Initiative and the Military Reservist Economic Injury Disaster Loan.

Tags: business plan, Department Veterans, Department Veterans Affairs, Veterans Affairs, Business Grants, Disabled Veteran

Repair A Dent In A Bullnose Corner

A dent or chipped corner in your home is a common problem with an easy solution. You create the straight, smooth, sharp or round corners in your home by installing a metal bullnose corner bead over the drywall joint. A bullnose corner bead is a strip of metal with mesh edges or edges with pre-drilled holes. To repair a dent in a bullnose corner bead, you need to scrap off old drywall and joint compound. Learning to make your own repairs will save you money. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Use a 1 ½-inch drywall taping knife to scrape away the drywall on both sides of the damage to expose the bullnose corner bead underneath. Use the knife to scrape off any loose or ragged drywall edges around the repair area. Use a hammer to tap the metal corner bead dent gently until it is straight.

2. Tighten the existing drywall screws that appear loose with a drill. Reinforce the corner bead with a drill and additional drywall screws if necessary.

3. Mix the 45-minute drywall mud with water according to the instructions on the label. Don't mix more than you will need to make the repair. Fill the mud pan with mud.

4. Apply drywall mud to the repair area. Apply mud starting from the nose of the corner bead and moving toward the wall using a 6-inch drywall taping knife. Make the level of the mud even with the existing wall. Work the mud in an up and down motion to create a sharp corner.

5. Let the mud dry thoroughly before applying a second coat of mud, using up and down strokes to keep the corner sharp. Let the mud dry again. On an untextured wall, sand the patch with 120-grit sandpaper to smooth and blend the patch with the wall surface.

6. Blend the edges of the patch with the textured wall surface with a wet cloth. Let the mud dry thoroughly and texture the wall to match the old wall before priming and painting.

Tags: corner bead, bullnose corner, bullnose corner bead, patch with, drywall joint, drywall screws, drywall taping

Types Of Inhome Care For Elderly

Home health care serves elderly people who are unable to perform some daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, walking, shopping and cooking. In-home care allows seniors to remain safely and comfortably at home instead of being placed in an assisted living facility or nursing home. In-home care includes many medical and non-medical services.

Nursing Care

Licensed nurses provide skilled medical care for seniors in their homes. Skilled nursing care includes monitoring the patient's health, dressing wounds, administering medications and intravenous therapy. Nurses can visit the patient on a regular schedule or as needed. Sometimes nursing care is needed on a 24-hour basis.

Physician Care

Physicians review the needs of home healthcare patients, and diagnose and treat illnesses. A physician can visit the housebound patient at home, if necessary.

Therapy

Several types of therapists travel to seniors' homes for rehabilitative treatment. A physical therapist helps a patient strengthen muscles and joints after an illness or injury. An occupational therapist helps disabled seniors learn use equipment such as walkers and wheelchairs. An occupational therapist can also teach seniors re-learn daily functions that are impaired from an illness or injury. For example, the therapist can help a patient re-learn dress himself. A speech therapist helps a patient regain communication skills that are impaired from illness, injury or a disability. For example, a speech therapist can work with a senior who is recovering from a stroke and has difficulty speaking.

Social Services

Sometimes seniors need mental health counseling or assistance with obtaining other types of home care. Social workers serve as case workers who evaluate the needs of the housebound senior and help the patient find resources in his community. They consult with the senior's family members about the senior's needs. Social workers also provide counseling for the elderly patient.

Homecare

Non-medical homecare includes housekeeping chores, meal preparation, laundry, food shopping, cooking and bill paying. This type of in-home care is provided on a regular basis, depending on the needs of the patient.

Nutritional Support

A dietitian visits the elderly patient and creates a diet plan that meets her needs and complements other medical treatment she is receiving. Dietitians encourage elderly patients to eat healthy, nutritious meals.

Volunteer

Many communities have volunteer services in-home for the elderly. Some low-income, housebound elderly are unable to afford private, non-medical care. For example, volunteers deliver hot meals to seniors who can't cook for themselves. Volunteers can offer to drive elderly people to doctor's appointments or to take them shopping.

Tags: illness injury, therapist helps, care includes, elderly patient, elderly people, from illness

Get Certified For The Computer Technology Industry Association

Information technology professionals and entry-level technicians can earn certification from CompTIA.

The Computer Technology Industry Association, commonly known as CompTIA, is a nonprofit trade association working to advance the global information technology (IT) industry through educational programs, professional certification, market research and political advocacy. CompTIA is respected around the world for its vendor-neutral IT certifications. It certifies IT professionals in a range of fields, including network and server administration, computer repair and security. CompTIA certification is available for entry-level technicians or for professionals looking to advance their careers. To get a CompTIA certification, you must take and pass an exam.

Instructions

1. Choose the certification you want to earn. Two certifications are available for entry-level technicians: CompTIA A+, for PC repair, and CompTIA PDI+, for maintenance of peripheral hardware. For experienced technicians, a range of certifications is available. Visit CompTIA's website for a list of certifications and exam details (see Resources).

2. Download and review the exam objectives for the certification you have chosen. These are available on CompTIA's website (see Resources).

3. Determine how you will study for the exam. CompTIA reviews and approves a variety of training materials and numerous training centers around the United States. Additionally, CompTIA offers eLearning courses in partnership with the company Element K. The eLearning courses are available at any time, from anywhere. The costs for these courses and materials vary. Visit the CompTIA website to review the options (see Resources).

4. Complete your exam preparation. In addition to the study resources above, complete sample exam questions, which are available free of charge on CompTIA's website (see Resources).

5. Buy a CompTIA exam voucher for the certification you will be attempting. You can do this on CompTIA's website (see Resources). Select your certification from the menu at the lower left. After your purchase, you will be sent an email containing an exam voucher number. Make special note of the voucher expiration date.

6. Schedule your exam with an approved testing center (see Resources). Locations are available across the country. You will need to provide your exam voucher number to secure an exam date. If your voucher has expired, you will not be able to schedule an exam.

7. Take and pass your certification exam. Afterward, you will be sent a score report. Navigate to the "Your Certifications" page on the CompTIA website (see References). Follow the instructions to register an account using information from your score report. You will then be able to request that a certificate be sent to you. You can also authorize CompTIA to send proof of your certification to employers or schools.

Tags: CompTIA website, CompTIA website Resources, entry-level technicians, exam voucher, website Resources, your certification, your exam

Fix Car Door Dings

Fix Car Door Dings

While dings in your car door aren't a major issue, they can be an eyesore. Taking your car to a repair shop can result in a pricey repair bill, which isn't necessary considering how easy it is to fix at home. It requires little more than some ingenuity to pop out dings like they were never there at all.

Instructions

The Dry Ice Method

1. Use a lighter or a hair dryer to heat the dented area of the door. If you use a lighter, it helps to place a piece of aluminum foil between the lighter and the door to protect the paint. It should only take about 30 seconds to heat the area.

2. Hold a piece of dry ice in the center of the dented area for 10 to 15 seconds.

3. Remove the ice and wait for the ding to pop out on its own. Wipe the area clean with a soft clean cloth.

The Compressed Air Method

4. Use a hair dryer to heat the area for 30 seconds. A lighter and piece of aluminum foil will work here as well; as long as the dented area gets heated without damaging the paint. If the car has been sitting out in the hot sun all day and the door is already hot to the touch, you can skip this step.

5. Hold a can of compressed air upside down and spray the dented area. When held upside down, the canister will dispense liquid CO2.

6. Allow the liquid CO2 to sit on the dented area for 10 to 15 seconds and the ding should pop out by itself.

7. Wipe the area with a soft clean cloth to remove any residual liquid CO2.

Tags: dented area, area seconds, aluminum foil, clean cloth, dented area seconds

Prepare To Be An Xray Technician

X-ray technicians -- also called radiologic technicians -- are health professionals who take X-rays of a patient's body to help doctors diagnose and treat illnesses. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that X-ray technicians not only take and develop X-ray films, but they also are responsible for protecting patients and other medical staff from excessive radiation exposure during the diagnostic process. Preparing to become an x-ray technician involves many years of education, training, certification and licensure.

Instructions

1. Enter and complete an accredited radiography program. All X-ray technicians have completed specialized training, ranging from an 18-month certificate program to a two-year associate degree to a four-year baccalaureate program, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Labor statisticians note that most X-ray technicians hold an associate degree from an accredited radiography program. The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs publishes a directory of all accredited training programs for X-ray technicians; contact the commission or search its online program directory to find a program near you. Although course work in radiography programs varies depending on type of program and school preferences, as a rule you can expect to take courses in radiation safety, physics, anatomy, physiology and medical ethics.

2. Take and pass the national certification examination. X-ray technicians must pass a national certification examination demonstrating knowledge and understanding of the field, according to the American Registry of Radiologic Technicians, the certification body for X-ray technicians. The certification examination in radiography asks 220 multiple-choice questions about diagnostic imaging, radiation safety, correct diagnostic procedures and processes for developing films. Test takers have a total of three and a half hours to complete the test. After validating your passing score, the national registry issues your certificate. Note that after you practice for one year, you must complete an annual registration process where you report on practice patterns and continuing education activity to keep your certificate current.

3. Obtain a license to practice from your state licensing authority. Most states require X-ray technicians to hold a license in addition to national certification, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The American Registry of Radiologic Technicians notes that 36 states use the certification exam for licensing purposes as well, requiring that you submit proof of education and test scores to receive a license. Other states use a separate examination and licensing process in addition to the national certification exam but consider your certification exam scores as part of the review of your license application.

Tags: X-ray technicians, national certification, Bureau Labor, Bureau Labor Statistics, certification exam, certification examination, Labor Statistics

Tie Into A Septic System

Pipe

Assuming your septic tank has the capacity to handle additional input, tying into the system is a straightforward process. The unique conditions of your location will determine if this is an easy or difficult task to perform. One of the most challenging aspects can be locating the septic tank and drain lines if it is not clearly marked or evident. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Locate the drain line going into the septic tank. In most instances the septic tank will be located a minimum of 10 feet from the home. If the septic tank is not marked in some manner, it will be necessary to find the main drain line under the home. Determine where the drain line exits the home and in what direction. Take careful measurements so you can find the identical spot on the exterior of the home. Follow this line out approximately 6 feet from the home and dig a test hole. The drain line should be a maximum of 24 inches below the surface. Once you find the drain line, remove enough dirt to expose 4 to 6 feet of the pipe.

2. Start digging

Dig the ditch from the new source to the existing drain line. The new line should travel in a downhill direction, otherwise a pump will need to be installed. Dig the ditch approximately 6 inches wide and slightly shallower than the existing drain line. Remove all large rocks, roots and debris from the ditch to protect the new drain line from damage.

3. Tee fitting

Cut into the existing drain line using the hack saw. Clean both ends of the pipe with the pipe cleaner, then apply pipe cement before installing the PVC tee fitting. The fitting will be difficult to insert into the line and it may be necessary to slightly raise each end of the pipe to allow room for the fitting to be put into place. Adjust the fitting so the opening is pointed toward the new ditch.

4. Install 4-inch PVC pipe from the tee fitting to the new source outlet. Be certain to clean all pipe fittings and couplings before applying pipe cement. Check each coupling to be certain it is secure. Once the piping is in place back-fill the new ditch and cover the old drain line as well. The new drain line is ready to be used.

Tags: drain line, septic tank, existing drain, existing drain line, feet from, feet from home

Design Your Own Deck For A Mobile Home

A wood deck provides a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

Decks add more living space to a mobile home, increasing the value of the property. Usually several feet off of the ground, mobile homes require some type of stair device for entry and exit. By combining a deck with the stairs, mobile-home owners can enjoy this outdoor area for relaxation and entertainment. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Choose the location for your deck. A deck can be located on the front or back of a mobile home; it can also extend all the way around the mobile home.

2. Decide on the purpose of your new deck. Do you intend to use it for entertainment, extra living space, or simply as a way in and out of the mobile home? Will you use it for barbecues or as an extension of a children's play area? The purpose of the deck will help in determining the necessary size and functional design of the deck. For example, a deck used for barbecuing and entertainment will need a greater amount of space than a deck designed only for the entrance and exit of the home. A deck that's going to be used as a meditation space may not need a railing, while a deck used by small children will need a secured railing and a stair gate.

3. Determine the size of the deck using a tape measure outside of your mobile home. It's easy to underestimate the proper size for a deck. For example, an 8-by-10-foot deck may seem like plenty of room for entertaining, but once furniture and guests are added, that size deck can become cramped. Take into consideration what types of outdoor furniture will be located on the deck. Leave plenty of room for barbecue grills, patio furniture, flower planters, and free space for movement and play. Think about how large an indoor room with the same intended purpose would need to be and use this as a guide in determining the size of your deck. Keep in mind the proportions of your home when planning out your deck's size. A deck shouldn't overwhelm the home---it should appear as a natural extension of the mobile home.

4. Draw out several deck designs using graph paper. Use magazine pictures and landscaping books as inspiration for deck design ideas. A deck can have many different configurations, including varying stair locations and different levels. Walkways can attach the deck to different outdoor areas or other decks. Include details such as deck lighting and built-in benches or railing ideas on your deck drawings.

5. Contact a local contractor to build your deck. If you plan to build the deck yourself, visit your local lumberyard or home-improvement store to purchase materials.

Tags: mobile home, your deck, size deck, deck example, deck used

Prepare A Home For Elderly House Guests

Preparing your home for elderly house guests will benefit your entire family. Household hazards are dangerous to everyone, no matter how many birthdays they've celebrated. While there are a few items that will require more scrutiny if you're having older visitors, any purchases or minor improvements you make to your house on their behalf now can help you "age in place" and live more independently as the years go by. Here are tips. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Check the inside and outside of your house thoroughly for possible tripping hazards. Falls are the number-one cause of injury to elderly people. Examine chair legs and stairs and remove throw rugs during your elderly visitor's stay.

2. Give extra attention to the bathroom, where most falls occur. Porcelain is unforgiving to a head or hip, so replace no-slip mats inside the bath and shower if they're loose and check that bath mats or rugs outside the bath/shower area have non-skid backing. You can purchase a grab bar for inside the bath and shower for as little as $50, but check that the label states the bar meets the Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines for safety.

3. Review your lighting and upgrade if needed, especially in the hallways and on the stairs, two very dangerous areas for aging eyes. Purchase a few of those stick on lamps for drawers and closets.

4. Install lever-type door handles which are easier to use by people with arthritis. They cost about $20, but you may end up appreciating them as well.

5. Take into consideration any mobility limits your elderly guest may have and plan ahead. Be sure their room is close to a bathroom. If they use a wheelchair or walker, the doorways to their room and the bathroom should be wide enough. Rather than remodeling door frames, some experts suggest installing doors with swing-clear hinges, which can add an extra inch or two of space.

6. Make sure outdoor steps, porches and driveways are kept free of snow and ice in the winter. Don't leave pets' or children's toys scattered around, inside or out.

7. Be respectful of your elderly guest's desire for privacy. Take into consideration any dietary needs to eat on a regular schedule. While your life doesn't have to come to a grinding halt during their stay, try to keep the household noise level and general pace to a level that's comfortable for your guest.

Tags: bath shower, your elderly, check that, elderly guest, inside bath

Get Certified For Hood Cleaning

Grease fires in hoods pose a serious danger.

Some services and products are necessities in the food industry. Hood cleaning is one example. An average of 50 grease hood or exhaust fan fires damaged restaurants each year between 2000 and 2004. The fires resulted in approximately one million dollars in annual damages. Restaurants must follow federal, state and local laws relating to hood care. The National Fire Protection Association's (NFPA) Code, followed by most fire inspectors and insurance companies, states that hoods should be cleaned by individuals who are properly trained and certified. The International Kitchen Exhaust Cleaning Association (IKECA) certifies exhaust cleaners and provides continuing education.

Instructions

Certified Exhaust Cleaning Specialist (CECS) Test

1. Study and learn the NFPA 96 standards for commercial cooking ventilation control and fire protection.

2. Memorize the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards for hazardous communication, confined space entry, control of hazardous energy, respiratory and personal protective equipment, and ladder safety.

3. Assimilate the International Mechanical Code (IMC) regarding commercial food heat-processing appliances, kitchen grease ducts and exhaust equipment, hoods, make up air, fire suppression systems, and cooking appliances.

4. Learn the International Fire Code (IFC) related to alternative automatic fire-extinguishing systems, including hood suppression systems, actuation, system interlocking, monitoring, and commercial cooking systems.

5. Sign up for the CECS test and pay the examination fee.

6. Take and pass the test. You must have at least 70 percent correct answers to pass the test. There is a total of 150 questions, so you must answer 105 correctly. You have three hours to complete the exam.

7. Take the Certified Exhaust Cleaning Technician (CECT) Exam to work on a crew under the direct supervision of a certified exhaust cleaning specialist. You only need to study the NFPA 96 standards for ventilation control and fire protection of commercial cooking.

8. Pass the 100-question exam. You must have at least 70 percent of your answers correct.

Certified Exhaust Specialist Inspector (CESI) Test

9. Take the CESI certification test if you plan to become a field inspector whose job it is to inspect and make reports regarding the condition of the ventilation system.

10. Demonstrate your ability to determine the type of system used in the facility, identify the system components, diagram the system, indicate the cleanliness of the system, and make recommendations to your customer regarding regular maintenance.

11. Learn the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers' (ASHRAE) Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning, (HVAC) Chapter 31. Study the NFPA 96 standards for commercial cooking ventilation control and fire protection.

12. Memorize the International Mechanical Code (IMC) regarding commercial food heat-processing appliances, kitchen grease ducts and exhaust equipment, kitchen hoods, make up air, suppression systems, and cooking appliances.

13. Learn the International Fire Code (IFC) related to alternative automatic fire-extinguishing systems and OSHA's ladder safety. Pass the 95-question test with at least 75 percent of your answers correct. You have two hours to complete the closed-book exam.

Tags: commercial cooking, control fire, control fire protection, Exhaust Cleaning, fire protection, least percent

Repair Chipped Crystal Glassware

Crystal glassware

Lead crystal is made by adding lead oxide to hot, molten glass during the fabrication process. This process creates reflection and refraction of light and produces sparkle. Crystal glassware remains a popular choice purely for artistic elegance and appeal. The charm and beauty of crystal glassware is greatly reduced by any damage, especially chips. Fortunately most chipped crystal glassware can be repaired, although not to its original state. Chips can be minimized or evened out. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Make a paste with baking soda and water. Use a clean, soft rag to apply the paste to the chip, including approximately 1/8 inch on each side of the chip. Rub in a back and forth motion over the chip to even out any sharp edges. Continue rubbing until the chip is gone. This method works well for very minor chips.

2. Apply white toothpaste with a clean, soft rag to the chip and slightly beyond. Buff until the chip is less noticeable to the touch. Do not use gel toothpaste because it is not abrasive. A mildly abrasive toothpaste is required. This approach works well for minor chips.

3. Use jeweler's rouge polishing compound and a small rotary buffing tool such as a Dremel rotary tool. Apply the jeweler's rouge to a felt head accessory. Carefully and slowly buff the chip out of the crystal glassware and even out the rim. This method will leave the rim of the glass shorter and will leave a white discoloration.

4. Use an adhesive especially made for glass repair, if you can find the chipped piece. These specialized adhesives are resistant to liquids, even boiling water. Adhesives form a very strong bond, although there may be a noticeable line where the repair was made.

5. Employ a professional crystal restoration specialist for deep chips or large chips, which will be virtually impossible to remove at home. If you own very expensive heirloom or irreplaceable crystal, a fine glass or crystal repair shop is the safest and most effective resource for restoring crystal glassware.

Tags: clean soft, crystal glassware, jeweler rouge, minor chips, This method

Write A Homeowners Association Slogan

A homeowners association fills many roles in today's residential society. A homeowners association helps new homeowners by providing a forum for the collective management of a housing community and regulating residential issues like uniform appearance and neighborly disputes. The role is growing as many new homeowners make contracts with their communities to protect property values and increase quality of life. Read on to learn write a homeowners association slogan.

Instructions

1. Appoint a person or a committee to write the slogan. This person or persons will study possibilities to find what is right for the group. They will help set the tone that the association will encourage in the community.

2. Think about the association's main goals. Are there particular issues that the homeowners association will address? Write down these main ideas.

3. Consider your target audience. What kind of homeowners are you addressing? Is there, for example, an age group that you are reaching out to, while supporting a fair and non-discriminatory housing policy?

4. Brainstorm. Record several possible choices, or several ideas from each person on the committee.

5. Vote. Choose the slogan that you feel best represents the work of the committee. Provide this slogan to the group at large for feedback.

Tags: homeowners association, association will, person committee

Install Heat Tape On A Mobile Home

Install Heat Tape on a Mobile Home

Most mobile home water pipes connect to the water service under the home where air is cold and damp. If these pipes are not heated, they will most likely freeze and break causing damage under the home. In order to prevent frozen water pipes on a mobile home it is important to install heat tape to all exterior pipes and shutoff valves including pipes that run against the wall. The best heat tape to use is automatic heat tape that is run by a thermostat. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Measure all pipes under the home including shutoff valves. If manufacturer's manual for the mobile has the length of heat tape that is required for the home you can eliminate this task.

2. Make sure that all joints are sealed and that there are no water leaks along the pipes under the home. Any leaks will cause damage to the pipe insulation and can short out the heat tape. Make any necessary repairs.

3. Begin by putting the plug next to the outlet. Run the heat tape along the entire length of the freshwater supply pipe. The heat tape can be placed along the side of the pipe or wrapped around the pipe. Use electrical tape to secure the heat tape to the pipe. It is very important that the heat tape does not overlap itself.

4. Wrap pipe insulation or pipe jackets over the entire length of pipe. When this is completed, wrap a waterproof wrapping around the insulation for added protection.

5. Plug the heat tape into a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter receptacle located under the mobile home for this purpose. Since there is a thermostat, the heat tape will come on as necessary.

Tags: heat tape, under home, heat tape, entire length, Heat Tape, Heat Tape Mobile, heat tape that

Pop A Dent

Compressed air is a common tool for cleaning computer keyboards.

Small dent repairs can cost hundreds of dollars at the auto body shop. You can easily repair a dent in your car at home with items you probably have around the house. Popping a dent yourself takes less than five minutes, and can be done without damage to the paint on the car.

Instructions

1. Plug the hair dryer into the extension cord and take it outside to your car. Take the can of compressed air with you, and the clean cloth.

2. Turn the hair dryer on to high heat. Aim it at the dent for one minute. Hold the hair dryer 2 inches from the surface of the dent.

3. Hold the can of compressed air upside down and aim the nozzle at the dent. Pull the trigger and spray the cold liquid onto the dent for 10 seconds.

4. Wait for the cold to contract the heated metal. You will hear an audible pop when the dent goes back to normal. Wait for the liquid to dissipate.

5. Wipe the surface of the car down with the dry cloth to remove any left over compressed air.

Tags: hair dryer

Home Repairs & Tax Deduction

To be eligible to be part of certain tax deductions and credits, home repairs must be done as part of a home improvement. The IRS distinguishes between home repairs and home improvements by saying that home repairs are jobs performed for the upkeep of the home while home improvements add value to the house. Examples of home repairs would include replacing broken windows or old carpet. Home improvements would be adding a new room to the house or building a pool. If you perform home repairs as part of the home improvement, you can include those costs as well.

Interest on Loans

If you took out a mortgage or home equity line to finance your repairs or improvements, you will be able to deduct some of the interest from you taxes. For home repairs, the deduction is limited to the interest on the first $50,000 of your home equity loan if you file a single return or $100,000 if you file a joint return with your spouse. For home improvements, as long as the entire amount of the loan is used to improve your home you can deduct the interest on the first $500,000 of your loan if you file a single return or $1 million if you file a joint return with your spouse.

Medical Necessity

If your health or the health of another person in the house necessitates a home improvement, you may be able to deduct the costs as a medical expense. Only medical expenses that exceed 7.5 percent of your income can be deducted. If you plan to claim this deduction, make sure you have a doctor's verification that the improvements were medically necessary.

Energy Efficiency

If you add energy-efficient items to your home you can claim a tax credit. This tax credit is applicable even if the project would typically count as home repairs, such as replacing doors or windows with energy efficient products. There are two categories for this tax break. The first applies to windows, ventilation, doors, heating, roofing, insulation, air conditioning, non-solar water heaters and biomass stoves. The installation of these items are eligible for a 30 percent tax credit up to $1,500. The installation of solar panels and water heaters, small windmills, fuel cells or geothermal pumps also gets a 30 percent tax credit but there is no cap on the amount of the credit.

Resale Basis

When you sell your home the amount of taxes that you pay is depending on your profit on the sale, which is determined by the sale price minus your basis in the house. Your basis is usually the amount of money you paid for the home. However, if you invested in your home through home improvements, including the cost of associated home repairs, you can add those to your basis to decrease your taxable profit.

Tax Deductions Versus Tax Credits

Tax deductions help you by reducing the amount of taxable income you have at the end of the year. Deductions that are itemized mean you cannot also take the standard deduction. Tax credits reduce your tax bill directly. For example, if your tax rate was 20 percent and your taxable income was $40,000, you would pay $8,000 in taxes. If you claimed a $2,000 tax deduction, it would reduce your taxable income to $38,000 and so your tax bill would be $7,600. If you claimed a $2,000 tax credit, it would reduce your tax bill to $6,000.

Tags: home repairs, your home, home improvement, home improvements, reduce your, taxable income