Diy Sears Lawn Mower Repair

Repair a Sears riding or walk-behind mower with similar troubleshooting steps.

Sears lawn mowers, marketed under the Craftsman brand, are available in both riding and walk-behind models. Problems that arise from time to time can often be resolved with some basic troubleshooting that helps to identify the source of the operating issues. Several of the same steps for identifying problems with a Sears mower can be applied to both riding and walk-behind mower models produced by the company. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Remove the cover surrounding the air filter. Remove the air filter and dispose of properly. Wipe the inside of the air filter housing with a rag to remove debris and dust. Install a replacement air filter and position the cover back in place.

2. Pull the spark plug wire from the spark plug. Loosen and remove the spark plug with a spark plug wrench. Dispose of the old spark plug and install a suitable replacement by threading it into the mower by hand. Tighten the spark plug with the spark plug wrench and secure the spark plug wire back to the plug tip.

3. Locate the battery on the Sears walk-behind or riding mower. Examine the cables leading to the battery terminals. Tighten the cable connectors to the terminals with a screwdriver or adjustable wrench as necessary. Examine the wires for any breaks or damage to the plastic covering and wrap with electrical tape to repair.

4. Drain old fuel from the fuel tank into a small container if it is old and could contain water or lacquer from age. Add gasoline that was recently purchased to the fuel tank.

5. Adjust the choke of the Sears riding or walk-behind mower as recommended by the manufacturer for starting and operation. Push the choke control to the "Start" position while the engine is started and then move to the "Run" position for operation.

Tags: spark plug, riding walk-behind, riding walk-behind mower, walk-behind mower, both riding, both riding walk-behind, fuel tank

Repair A Heat Shield

Chimneys are one place where the application of a heat shield may be needed to keep your house warm.

A heat shield is a chemical coating on a surface that effectively absorbs heat. By absorbing heat, the heat shield removes heat that may be applied to the surface. One example of a place where a heat shield can be used is for chimneys. Chimneys utilize heat shields on the chimney so that heat is absorbed into the chimney line. That way, your home re-absorbs the heat instead of the heat leaving out of your walls and home. You may need to repair or re-apply the heat shielding now and again for effective heat absorption. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Stop using the chimney at least 24 hours before cleaning and applying the heat shield application. This eliminates heat exhaust, making it easier to clean without breathing in fumes.

2. Use a ladder to get onto your roof if repairing a heat shield in a chimney. For this task, heat shield repairing is done through the chimney smoke stack. Some professional chimney sweepers and repairmen do work from the bottom-up to clean the chimney, but you will minimize dirtying your home if you work from atop the chimney. All equipment used needs to be chimney length.

3. Clean off any soot or debris that is attached to the surface of the original heat shield. Push the brush down into the chimney and move it around back and forth and in circles all down the length of the chimney. This should remove the soot and debris covering over your chimney wall and original heat shield. Use a flashlight to see how much debris you are removing.

4. Remove old heat shield wraps. This is if the old coating looks like it is peeling off. You will have to focus your chimney brush on those peeled or cracked areas so the coating falls off. You will need to use your gloves to peel these wraps off. This step is only pertinent if the surface had already used a heat shield wrap.

5. Go back down to your home and dispose of all the soot, debris and old heat shield coatings. Make sure you are wearing goggles, gloves and a face mask. The chances of dust and debris moving through the air during this clean-up is very high. Throw out all of the debris in the garbage.

6. Move back up to the roof and put down your chimney length sprayer. Load the sprayer with the canister or canisters of heat shield coating needed by your chimney. This amount may be determined by the length of your chimney.

7. Begin spraying up and down your chimney the new coating. The coating will look like a foam that eventually hardens to form the new heat shield. Try to add extra coating to any general area of the chimney you noticed the most cracks and peels.

8. Let the heat shield foam dry according to the chemical manufacturer directions. Once the foam has dried, you can utilize your chimney again with its repaired heat shield.

Tags: heat shield, your chimney, down your, soot debris, your home, chimney length

Diy Garage Remodel

Remodel your garage to create a new look and feel to it.

It's time to remodel the garage. Garages often become cluttered, messy and unorganized, which is a huge waste of space. When remodeling your garage do it yourself to create an organized, functional garage. What will you use it for? Your car, or mostly storage? Do you work in the garage, or keep work tools in there? This DIY project requires more than simply painting the walls or washing the floor. Incorporate items in the garage remodel that help to ensure it stays organized and functional after you have completed the remodel. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Remove everything from your garage. This ensures you have ample room to remodel it. Plus it will give you an idea of what you have, and what you can get rid of.

2. Wash your garage floor with your garden hose, a brush and a mild detergent. Allow the floor to dry before moving on to the next step.

3. Apply sealer to the garage floor according to the manufacturer's directions and allow to thoroughly dry.

4. Paint your garage floor with acrylic latex paint and your paint roller. This adds a decorative touch to the garage and brings in color.

5. Lay large pieces of wood along the joists of your garage loft. Place items on the wood, storing them away but within reach on a ladder when you need them. Select items leaning against your garage walls or that spill easily on the garage floor.

6. Install a folding work bench in the garage according to the manufacturer's directions. Fasten the top of the folding work bench to the wall with piano hinges, screws and your drill. This provides a designated area to work, yet folds away to create space in the garage when it's not in use.

7. Replace items in your garage and organize them. Spray paint yellow outlines around items on the floor. This designates an area for each item in your garage. This helps to remind everyone where the items belong when not used.

8. Hang an old dartboard in the garage as a message board. Insert tacks into the dartboard to hold messages. This provides an area for each member of your family to leave notes or messages to one another.

9. Nail carpet pieces on the walls of your garage directly where you park your vehicles. This prevents your doors from accidentally hitting the walls and becoming damaged. The carpet softens the "blow," possibly preventing you from having to repair damaged doors.

Tags: your garage, garage floor, according manufacturer, according manufacturer directions, area each, floor with, folding work

Doityourself House Projects

DIY home projects can be good investments.

Do-it-yourself projects can range from the simple to the complicated. Around the house, DIY projects can include regular maintenance, decorating projects or renovation plans. Before you get started, make sure you have planned every step of your project and that you have all the materials necessary. DIY home projects can help you save money and learn new skills. Does this Spark an idea?

Small Repairs

For those who are new at DIY projects, tackling small repairs from your to-do list is a good place to start. Are there lights that need to be changed? Cupboard doors that aren't opening as smoothly as they should? Holes in your walls or chips in your paint? Study home repair resources then try your hand at these small projects. By starting small and then going on to bigger projects, you will increase your skills and avoid costly repairs from having to call in someone else to do it for you.

Redecorating

Try using as many DIY projects and tasks as possible to redecorate a room. Paint it yourself. Sew matching curtains and cushions. Rearrange your furniture. Install shelving and other organization accessories. Hang pictures, paintings and mirrors. For inspiration and tips, consult friends whose home style you like or professional interior designers.

Make Over Your Furniture

Once you've redecorated a room, you may find that a few pieces seem slightly out of place. This does not mean that you have to run to the nearest furniture store and buy new furnishings. Think about how you could modify your existing pieces. Creative transformation projects include painting a desk, reupholstering an armchair or transforming the purpose of an object for another such as using empty drawers to make a bookcase. Once you have made over a piece of furniture, you could also move it to a different room in your home. Giving existing furniture pieces a new life is a great way to reuse old furniture, save money and learn new skills.

Start a Garden

Gardens come in all shapes and sizes, with many purposes from being decorative to providing your family with fruits and vegetables for your meals. Starting a garden is a good way to take in some fresh air while adding value to your home and expanding your DIY skills.

When starting a garden, make sure to choose plants that thrive in your region and in the space you are using. If your garden in is a shady area, plants that need a large amount of sunlight to thrive won't grow. Staff at your local nursery can help you figure out which plants are best suited to your garden space.

Bigger Projects

If painting walls and sanding antique furniture piece are not big enough challenges, consider more complex projects. Renovating your home offers lots of opportunities for DIY projects, but they require a higher level of preparation, more time and often more money, but the rewards are well worth the efforts.

Before making any holes in walls, make sure you check with the local building inspection agency to determine if you need a permit, and if so, to confirm you posses the correct ones. Also, if your project includes electrical or plumbing work, make sure you get an expert to check and approve your work to ensure you are compliant with regulations. This can avoid disasters such as electrical fires and water damage inside your house.

Tags: make sure, your home, home projects, learn skills, money learn, money learn skills

Repair The Glass In Your Storm Door

The glass in a metal storm door is usually not tempered glass. When untempered glass breaks, it cracks or breaks fully, sending pieces everywhere. Besides posing a danger of getting cut, cracked glass allows rain to seep in through the storm door and which may cause mold issues. Instead of replacing the entire storm door, repair the window by removing and replacing the glass. This avoids the unnecessary cost of investing in a new frame or door, just because the glass broke. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Press the tabs on the locks for the storm door window frame and remove the storm door window from the door. Place the window onto a table covered with a blanket.

2. Find the screws that hold the frame together. Note there is one screw in each corner of the frame. Remove the screws with a screwdriver.

3. Pull each piece of the framing off the window glass.

4. Measure the length and width of the window glass and then measure the thickness of the glass. If possible, take a piece of the glass with you to the glass supplier. Purchase a piece of replacement glass that meets the required measurements.

5. Slide the window framing over the edges of the glass and line up the pieces so the corners meet. Secure the pieces together with the original screws and your screwdriver.

Tags: storm door, door window, storm door window, window glass

Retrieve A Home Depot Receipt

When you purchase an item at the local Home Depot you are issued a receipt for your purchase. If you ever need to return that item you will need your receipt in order to process the transaction. If you have lost your receipt, don't worry. Home Depot stores its receipts in an intricate computer system which can be used to retrieve it in just a few minutes. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Visit the Home Depot where you originally purchased your item. To get a copy of a Home Depot receipt you must return to the location where that receipt was originally issued.

2. Go to the customer service desk at the Home Depot location you have visited, located at the front of the store.

3. Wait in line until it is your turn to speak with a customer service representative. Inform the representative that you would like a copy of your receipt. Give him the credit or debit card used to originally make your purchase, the date of the original purchase or an approximation and what items were on the receipt. The customer service representative will print out a copy of your receipt.

Tags: Home Depot, your receipt, customer service, copy your, copy your receipt, customer service representative

Repair A Gravel Driveway

Gravel driveways need regular maintenance to prevent and repair pot holes that appear.

A gravel driveway is a less expensive alternative to asphalt or concrete. Because gravel is not a permanent structure, it is more susceptible to changing weather conditions. Freezing and thawing cause areas of the driveway to sink over time, and heavy rains wash away gravel. A gravel driveway will need several repairs over its lifetime. Inspect your driveway every spring to see if the winter weather has caused bare areas or sink holes to appear. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Rake or shovel gravel from the area of a sink hole to expose the dirt underneath.

2. Fill the hole with dirt so that dirt is above the level of the driveway by a few centimeters. Water the soil to sink it in place. Level the dirt using a rake, and drive a vehicle over the dirt several times to pack the soil. Add more soil if necessary.

3. Rake and shovel the gravel onto the repaired area. Add more gravel to patchy areas throughout the driveway. Drive a vehicle over the area again to level out the gravel and soil.

Tags: gravel driveway, Rake shovel, Rake shovel gravel, shovel gravel, vehicle over

What To Do Before A Home Appraiser Arrives

Normally, house appraisals are done as part of the home loan or mortgage process. The purpose of an appraisal is to determine the market value of the home. Many things are taken into account, such as the condition of the home, the neighborhood and what similar homes in the area have sold for. You don't have control over the neighborhood or what similar homes have sold for--but you do have control over the condition of your home and how well it looks to the appraiser. Does this Spark an idea?

Exterior

Having your home appraised is important to your finances, so prepare your home as if you were putting it up for sale. The exterior should look clean and well maintained so that you receive the highest appraisal possible for your type of home and its location. First impressions are a must. In the real estate business, "first impressions" are known as curb appeal. It is how a home presents itself when an appraiser or a potential buyer sees the house for the first time. In other words, when an appraiser or potential buyer pulls up in front of your home, he should be attracted to your home before he even gets out of the car. Curb appeal speaks volumes as to how an appraiser expects the interior to look as well; he will assume that not only do you take care of the exterior of your home, but you also take care of the interior.

Make sure your landscaping is free of unsightly weeds, and that bushes, shrubs and trees are trimmed. The building itself should be well maintained, which means no broken windows, peeling paint, broken exterior lights or clutter blocking the entrance or driveway. If you have kept your home in good condition, you won't have to do any major work before an appraisal. If you haven't been maintaining your home, you will have to paint and do any necessary repairs to the exterior before having your home appraised.

Interior

The interior of your home should also be clean and in good condition. Walls should be painted, carpeting clean and clutter removed. Again, if you have let your house go, you have work to do before having an appraisal--such as painting the walls, cleaning the carpeting and tidying your rooms. Bathrooms should also be clean with no signs of clutter.

If you have a basement, make sure that it is organized and presentable. Also, don't forget the garage and the deck or patio. All of these spaces should be clean and organized if you want your home to get high marks on the appraisal.

Improvements and Additions

The appraiser will be interested in any repairs, improvements or additions you have made to your home. Repairs or improvements might include things such as a new roof, deck or driveway, new carpeting or hardwood flooring. Or maybe you remodeled the kitchen and bathroom. These changes add value to your home. So before the appraiser comes, sit down and make a list of improvements or additions as well as the cost of these repairs or upgrades.

Tags: your home, also clean, appraiser potential, appraiser potential buyer, before having, control over, good condition

Repair Broken Concrete In The Driveway

Home with driveway

Concrete is one of the most versatile and durable building materials available. Made from a blend of cement, water and gravel, it is used to create floors, walls and sidewalks. Concrete driveways in homes and businesses are also very common. While this material is long-lasting when installed correctly, it can be damaged by exposure to weather, especially snow and ice. Heavy vehicle use in the driveway can also tend to cause cracks and damage. While it is possible for homeowners to repair damaged concrete in the driveway, it is a laborious process that requires patience and a bit of elbow grease. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Use a sledgehammer to dislodge any badly damaged pieces of the driveway. Haul them away in a wheelbarrow or pickup truck for disposal.

2. Fill the bottom of any holes with a 1-2" layer of gravel. This gravel can be placed on top of any remaining concrete in the hole, or it can be placed directly upon the dirt, if applicable.

3. Cut pieces of wire mesh and place them into each hole.

4. Blend concrete mix and water in a wheelbarrow or bucket. Use a drill with a paddle bit to stir the mixture, then carefully pour it into each hole.

5. Use a coat hanger or similar item to pull the concrete mesh in each hole so that it is centered roughly in the middle of the opening, from top to bottom.

6. Smooth each patched area with a 2x4 and remove any excess concrete mixture. Wait 24 hours for the concrete to dry before proceeding.

7. Apply a layer of concrete sealer to the entire driveway using a paint roller or sprayer. The sealer will provide protection from rain and snow.

Tags: each hole, into each, into each hole

Repair A Gear Drive For A Craftsman Selfpropelled Lawn Mower

Lawn mowing

Repairing a gear drive for a Craftsman self-propelled lawn mower sounds like a task that only an expert could do.It is quite possible, however, that the process can be simple and broken down to just a few steps. Repairing a gear drive self-propelled mower will take an hour or so to repair, but it can save hundreds of dollars in repairs. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Turn off the lawn mower. Even lawn mowers can be dangerous.

2. Locate the self-propelled motor. For front drive machines, it's on the deck, in between the front wheels. If it's a rear drive, it's between the rear wheels.

3. Check for any debris on the gear box housing. This could clog the gears. If there is any, remove it.

4. Pop the gear drive housing off with a flat screwdriver. Under the housing will be gears that run the self-propelling motion. Check for any clogs such as little rocks or crushed leaves. If there are any, replace them.

5. Check for cracks in the gears. Any cracks can result in the motor not working. Replacement gears can be purchased through the Craftsman parts phone line. Replace the broken gears with a screwdriver then put the new ones back in.

Tags: gear drive, lawn mower, Repairing gear, Repairing gear drive

Flat Roof Construction In Cincinnati

A flat roof may sometimes serve a building's purpose more effectively than a sloped roof. Flat roofs provide ideal space for solar panels and rooftop gardens, for instance. Though flat roofs work the best in locations that receive little snow or rain due to possible drainage issues, they are not off-limits in cities that get the occasional rough winter. If you want to build a flat roof in Cincinnati, you must simply be aware of the potential problems. Does this Spark an idea?

Flat Roofs

Despite the misleading name, flat roofs actually do have some slope to them. In fact, flat roofs may contain a range of angles. Every flat roof should have some slope to ensure that some water drains from the roof, but a more substantial slope provides more effective drainage. Generally, up to a 10 percent angle still provides the benefits of a flat roof, such as space for solar panel arrays, and appears flat from ground level while allowing for better drainage.

Best Uses

Because flat roofs do accumulate more water than roofs with more substantial slope, the roofs do pose some risk to buildings in Cincinnati. Use on sheds, garages and other usually uninhabited buildings proves less hazardous than use on inhabited buildings, such as houses and office buildings. If you do want to use flat roofs on a home or office building, use the maximum amount of slope and be vigilant during the winter months when snow accumulation may pose an issue and ice dams can form in drainage areas.

Minimum Angle

If you want to ensure that some water drains from a flat roof, use a minimum angle of 1 percent. According to both Southern States Roofing and This Old House, however, a slightly less steep angle of approximately 0.7 percent serves as the absolute bare minimum slope for a flat roof. Accomplish this by sloping the roof by 1/8 inch for every foot of roof. Though this provides the flattest surface, however, it may prove too little of a slope in most instances.

Roof Construction

Building a flat roof requires a simpler construction method than sloped roofs. Instead of building a frame for the roof that slopes upward from the perimeter toward a center peak, lay the joists for a flat roof in the same way that you lay normal ceiling and floor joists. Place the joists between the tops of the walls of the building structure so that the joists sit at the angle that you have figured for the roof slope and then lay plywood roof decking on top of the joists. Install rubber or metal roofing to a flat roof to ensure water-resistance.

Tags: flat roof, flat roof, flat roofs, drains from, ensure that, ensure that some, have some

Repair A Garbage Disposal

A garbage disposal comes in handy when you don't want unused food filling up your trash can. Just put the food down the drain, turn the switch and listen as your garbage disposal grinds away until the water washes the food down the drain. If your garbage disposal is on the fritz, follow the steps below to fix the disposal yourself. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Garbage Disposal Makes No Noise When Turned On

1. Look on the bottom of the garbage disposal (under the sink) and press the reset button. You know it needs to be reset if the button isn't pushed in. Give the disposal a try.

2. Check to see if a circuit breaker has been tripped if pushing the reset button didn't work. If so, switch the breaker off and back on, and try the disposal again.

3. Locate the switch that gives the garbage disposal power (either on the wall or under the sink). The problem may be a faulty switch. Find the circuit breaker on the service panel that powers the garbage disposal and turn it off. Replace the faulty switch and turn the power back on. Check to see if the disposal is working properly.

4. Replace the garbage disposal if--after trying these steps--there is still no noise when you turn it on. Your disposal is likely unfixable.

Garbage Disposal Makes a Humming Noise, But Will Not Run

5. Switch off the circuit breaker in the electrical service panel that powers the garbage disposal.

6. Insert the offset wrench that came with your garbage disposal into the flywheel turning hole located on the bottom of the disposal. If you don't have a wrench that fits, purchase one from a store that carries your particular type of garbage disposal.

7. Turn the wrench clockwise to loosen whatever has gotten lodged in the garbage disposal or flywheel. You will feel the flywheel turn easily once it has been dislodged.

8. Use a wooden broom handle (or something of similar shape) to dislodge a stuck impeller or flywheel if you cannot find the proper offset or hex wrench. Go through the hole in the sink where the garbage disposal is located and put the broom handle against the impeller. Use a bit of elbow grease to loosen the flywheel.

9. Turn the power to the garbage disposal back on once you know the flywheel is no longer obstructed. Push the reset button under the garbage disposal.

10. Turn on the water and flip the garbage disposal switch quickly on and off for a short period of time. This should set the flywheel spinning and wash the dislodged object down the drain.

Tags: garbage disposal, garbage disposal, reset button, circuit breaker, down drain

Donate Treadmills

Many people feel like mice when they run on a treadmill, which is why more and more of them are deciding they'd rather run outside in the fresh air, with beautiful scenery serving as their inspiration. But how does one get rid of a treadmill without going through the hassle of selling it?

Instructions

Calling Organizations and Donating

1. Search for local charities or churches in the phonebook or on the Internet to whom you would like to donate your treadmill.

2. Telephone supervisors of the charity or church of your choice and ask them about their organization. Decide if you feel a connection to the organization, agree with what it does and would be willing to give a piece of expensive equipment to it.

3. Decide which organization would benefit the most from your donation.

4. Call the organization and let it know ahead of time when you expect to be there to donate the treadmill. Most organizations will help you unload the treadmill from your vehicle and provide you with a tax-deductible receipt.

Tags: from your

Repair A Frostfree Faucet

Repair a Frost-Free Faucet

An outdoor frost-free faucet looks like any other faucet on the outside of a home. The difference is that a longer frost-free faucet stem connected to the compression washer valve seals off the water supply inside the home rather than near the spout where the water would be exposed to the cold outside temperatures. When a frost-free faucet develops a leak, the homeowner can complete the necessary repairs in one hour or less, using a few basic tools and materials--all of which are readily available at a local hardware store or home center. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Turn off the water supply to the frost-free faucet.

2. Open the frost-proof faucet valve by turning the handle counter clockwise to relieve all residual water pressure.

3. Use an appropriate tipped screwdriver to remove the center screw that attaches the frost-proof faucet handle to the faucet valve stem.

4. Remove the faucet packing nut by turning it counterclockwise with an adjustable wrench. Use lockjaw pliers to support the frost-proof faucet body while removing the packing nut. The packing nut is located directly behind the handle and has six flat sides to facilitate removal with a wrench.

5. Remove the valve stem by placing the faucet handle onto the stem and turning it counter clockwise a few turns until it can be removed. There is no need to reinstall the handle retaining screw for this purpose.

6. Remove the rubber packing 0-ring seal from the stem. Use the edge of a flathead screwdriver to raise up the 0-ring from its recess and then roll the 0-ring off of the handle end of the faucet stem. Keep the old 0-ring for size comparison with the new 0-ring.

7. Locate the rubber compression seal at the bottom of the valve stem and use an appropriate tip screwdriver to remove the center screw that retains it. Turn the screw counter clockwise to remove it.

8. Remove the rubber compression washer from its recess using the edge of a flathead screwdriver. Keep the rubber compression washer for size comparison with the new washer.

9. Clean all residue from the packing 0-ring seal recess and the compression washer recess with a toothpick and cotton swab.

10. Install the new rubber packing 0-ring seal by placing it over the handle end of the stem and rolling it into the 0-ring recess.

11. Install the new rubber compression washer seal into its recess at the bottom end of the stem. Make sure that the washer is fully seated into its recess by applying pressure with your thumb.

12. Use a screwdriver to install the rubber compression washer retaining screw. Turn the screw clockwise to tighten.

13. Insert the valve stem into the valve body of the frost-free faucet.

14. Attach the faucet handle to the stem and turn it clockwise until it becomes snug. It is not necessary to secure the handle with its retaining screw for this step. Remove the handle when this step is completed.

15. Place the packing nut over the handle end of the valve stem and tighten with the adjustable wrench by turning the nut clockwise. Use lockjaw pliers to support the frost-proof faucet valve body as the packing nut is tightened.

16. Attach the faucet handle to the valve stem and use a screwdriver to secure the center retaining screw.

17.Restore the water pressure to the frost-proof faucet.

18. Open the frost-proof faucet to purge air from the water lines.

19. Close the frost-proof faucet and leak check.

Tags: frost-proof faucet, compression washer, valve stem, rubber compression, faucet handle, frost-free faucet, retaining screw

Start A Funeral Home

Start a Funeral Home

Starting a funeral home is not for everyone. However, this is a rewarding career and business. You will be helping people say good-bye to their loved ones by helping to arrange funerals. Funeral directors are usually highly respected individuals. You can help people grieve and give them guidance when it is most needed. It's also important to listen to the survivors' expressions of need and memories of their loved ones and offer them much needed support. If you enjoy helping people and planning events, you could make an excellent funeral director.

Instructions

1. Choose whether you want to build your funeral home from scratch or if you want to purchase an existing funeral home. Obviously, buying an existing funeral home business would be much easier. However, if you want specific custom-made features, you should build your own funeral home. See more about building your funeral home in Resources.

2. Get educated. Mortuary school is a must if you want to be at the top of your game. You will learn embalm, transport bodies and coordinate a funeral service.

3. Take the Funeral Service National Board Examination (NBE). This is your license to become a funeral director. It is an exam that you will need to pass to begin working as a funeral director. Your school of choice will set this up for you on request.

4. Create a thorough and complete business plan to get money from a bank or investors to start your company. Even if you are doing the funding yourself, you need a plan. This will act as your map with every action you take toward your new business.

5. Become legal by hiring an attorney. You will need an attorney who has experience with the funeral home business to get the necessary legal papers, including legal contracts for your customers to sign. You may need to return to a lawyer who is experienced in dealing with funeral home businesses, so find a good one that you can rely on when you need her. Don't just choose the first lawyer you see in the Yellow Pages. Think about your legal needs. Interview lawyers carefully, and pick the best of the bunch.

6. Buy your supplies. Now that you have bought your funeral home and become educated in mortuary sciences, you will need to find suppliers for your funeral home. You will need a supplier from which you can buy caskets, urns and other funeral home supplies. Find an affordable supplier from which you can get all of your funeral home supplies. You might need to find more than one supplier, but it is ideal to have just one.

7. Create a general price list for all of your funeral home's services. On average, the traditional funeral, including viewings, embalming, transportation, cosmetics and professional charges, will cost the customer about $10,000, according to Newsweek.com (May 2009). Additional services may include cremations, obituary announcements, graveside funerals and paperwork assistance. You will need to have these on hand for potential customers and new customers. You are now ready to open the doors and start your funeral home.

Tags: funeral home, your funeral, your funeral home, will need, funeral director

Green Cloud & Other Sage Plants

A bee feasts on a sage

Although its parent plant has been a part of Texas lore for centuries, the Green Cloud sage is a relatively new addition to the landscape. It was introduced as a hybrid in the early 1980s. The Green Cloud, a member of the Texas Sage family, has a number of relative hybrids, each with their own distinct characteristics. Does this Spark an idea?

Green Cloud

The Green Cloud sage plant is a cultivar of the Texas Sage plant of the genus Leucophyllum frutescens. Texas Sage may also be referred to as Texas ranger, Chihuahuan sage, Cenizo or the Texas Barometer Bush. The Green Cloud Texas Sage hybrid sprouts magenta flowers and grows to between 6 and 8 feet in width and height. The differential in leaves sets Green Cloud apart from its parent bush. The Green Cloud has smooth, dark green leaves while the Cenizo has fuzzy silver leaves. According to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center at the University of Texas at Austin, the Green Cloud was released in 1982 and trademarked by Texas A&M. The center report says Green Cloud sage should not be fertilized or overly watered as a combination of humidity and high evening temperatures in some locales can damage the roots of the plant.

Texas Sage

All Texas sages, including the Green Cloud, must have proper drainage to avoid root rot. Placement in full sun is ideal although semi-sunshine is acceptable. "When planted in part shade locations, the plants will have a more open, sparse appearance and the blossoms will not be as profuse," according to the University of Arizona Mohave County Cooperative Extension Service. The plant is tolerant to drought conditions and attempts to grow it in areas with significant moisture can prove problematic. The Department of Horticultural Sciences at Texas A&M suggests it be planted in raised beds in areas of high rainfall or poorly draining soil. Its flowers are nearly always purple with an occasional white or pink tinge. Outside of the state, Texas Sage is sometimes referred to as Purple Sage and referenced as such in the Zane Grey novel "Riders of the Purple Sage."

Other Texas Sage Hybrids

Other hybrids of Texas Sage include the White Cloud, which holds white flowers and grows to between 5 and 6 feet in height and width and the Compacta, with light purple flowers and a growth of 4 to 5 feet. The Silver Cloud Texas Sage boasts white foliage and deep purple flowers, while the Heavenly Cloud develops dark green foliage, indigo flowers and can range from 4 to 6 feet. The Rain Cloud hybrid has gray foliage and dark purple flowers, while the Rio Bravo grows thick, green leaves, lavender flowers and may spread to as much as 5 to 6 feet.

Tags: Green Cloud, Texas Sage, Cloud sage, Green Cloud sage, purple flowers, between feet, Cloud Texas

How Do Mortgage Companies Buy & Sell Loans

Process

The flow of credit that finances most U.S. mortgages originates from a secondary market, such as a large investment bank or a Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac institution. Small, community banks use funds from within the community to finance banks but sometimes sell loans to increase profit margins. The retail market for mortgages exists due primarily to two factors: the release of liability and the increase in revenue.

Selling Mortgages

A retail lender (Wells Fargo, HSBC) or a broker originates a mortgage loan to a borrower. The lender gains any upfront fees charged on the loan--title fees, origination charges--and begins to service the loan by collecting payments and interest on the note. The lender contacts a secondary market investor (Goldman Sachs, Lehman Brothers) to offer a sale on its originated loans. Generally, these mortgages are sold in bundles, not individually. The secondary market investor agrees to a price and agrees to take on the liability of the group of mortgages.

Buying Mortgages

An investor chooses to buy bundles of mortgage debt in an attempt to leverage the debt as an asset to make a greater profit. The role of the investor is to analyze the risk in shouldering a mass lump of debt versus the benefit of bundling the debt together into a security, which can be traded on the open market for other investors. Secondary market investors make purchasing decisions with particular lenders based on risk performance and underwriting guidelines--a process by which these investors can mitigate risk.

Tags: secondary market, market investor, secondary market investor

Get Rid Of Algae On Wooden Stairs

Green algae growth on wooden stairs is usually an outdoor problem that occurs on places where water collects and forms a continuous wet area or on wood that has been exposed to the elements for a long time and lost the protection of paint or stain. When algae growth does occur on wooden stairs, the problem needs to be dealt with right away as the problem will only get worse over time. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Removing the Algae

1. Begin algae removal by scraping all affected areas of wood with a stiff putty knife or paint scraper. Much care should be taken so as not to gouge or mar the wood. A high-powered pressure washer is not recommended because it may damage wooden stairs. When you begin the scraping process, keep in mind that the idea of the first step is not to remove all the algae growth, just the areas where the algae has built up excessively. This hand scraping process also allows you to closely examine the extent of algae growth on your stairs.

2. Continue the algae removal process by scrubbing with coarse steel wool and a mixture of warm water and a mild biodegradable soap and detergent. Use some elbow grease and scrub hard until the algae is completely removed. If large areas of growth are present, a long-handled, plastic scrub brush might be helpful.

3. Rinse the stairs with clean water.

4. Clean the wooden area with a long-handled scrub brush and a mixture of warm water and an oxygen bleach cleaner. Clean all areas of the wooden stairs completely. Be sure the cross-cut sides of the wooden steps are treated with the oxygen bleach mixture as well as the main surface of the treads and risers (if present).

5. Rinse the stairs with a garden hose (if outdoors) or a pail of clear water and a sponge.

6. Let stairs dry thoroughly, then seal, paint or stain them to help prevent the algae from returning.

Tags: algae growth, wooden stairs, algae removal, mixture warm, mixture warm water, oxygen bleach

Repair A Door Jam

Basic tools are all that's needed to make jam repairs.

Doors seem complicated on the surface, but in reality are made up of a very few simple parts. The interior frame, or door jamb is the most important in terms of making your door open and close smoothly. Door jams take quite a bit of abuse with doors being closed against them on a regular basis. This can be similar to being beaten with a hammer. Over time the repeated slamming of the door and the settling of the house itself can take its toll. Before deciding to replace a stubborn door, try repairing the jam, it can save you several hundred dollars if you do the repair yourself. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Pry the casing away from the jam on both sides of the door opening, with a flat pry bar, to expose the gap between the jam and the studs behind. Open and shut your door to determine where the jam needs repair. There are three common places that doors stick, most problems will relate to one of these. The first is the top corner above the knob. The second is the top of the knob side jam. The third area doors stick is below the striker plate on the knob side jam.

2. Repair a jam with a door that sticks on the lower half of the knob side jam by drawing the lower corner of the hinge side out. Start by knocking any shims from behind the hinge side jam in the lower corner with a hammer and flat screwdriver, or wood chisel. If the jam is nailed in place, tap against it, just below the lowest hinge firmly with a hammer and test the door. You should notice a difference right away.

3. Replace one of the screws in the lower hinge with a 3-inch treated deck screw and tighten it with a cordless drill driver to pull the jam out and hold it in position. Test the door and adjust the screw as needed. Add shims behind the hinge to keep the tension on the screw once the door is operating smoothly. This may also help to correct a door that hits at the top corner above the knob on the jamb header, or horizontal top piece.

4. Fix a door that drags on the top half of the knob side hinge by drawing the hinge side jam out at the top. Remove the shims as before and tap the jam back. Test for improvement. Again you should see some improvement right away. Replace one screw in the upper hinge with a 3-inch treated deck screw and drive it back into the stud, tightening as needed to get the correct adjustment. Add shims behind the hinge to hold the screw snug.

5. Drive a screw, using a cordless drill driver, up through the jamb header into the wall frame above in the corner nearest the knob side jamb to lift the header and reduce drag on the upper part of the door.

6. Pull nails through the back of the door casing you removed in the first step with locking pliers to avoid holes in the face and nail them back into place with a hammer and new finish nails.

Tags: knob side, with hammer, behind hinge, door that, hinge side, 3-inch treated

Repair A Scratched Glass Table Top

Repair a scratched glass table top with toothpaste.

Although a scratch on a glass table top may seem permanent, procedures can remove the blemish or make it less noticeable. Over time, the scratch collects dust and dirt within the crevice, which makes it even more prominent. Glass has the same texture and color throughout its thickness, allowing for a simple process of removal or disguising of the scratch. With the use of household staples, you can diminish or completely remove the scratch mark. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Toothpaste

1. Spray glass cleaner on the glass table top. Wipe the cleaner from the glass with a soft cloth.

2. Spread 1/4 inch of paste toothpaste over the scratch on the glass table top.

3. Press the toothpaste into the scratch by rubbing it back and forth with a damp sponge. Look at the scratch periodically, and continue rubbing removing the entire scratch.

4. Wipe the toothpaste from the glass with a damp sponge.

5. Spray window cleaner on the glass table once again, and wipe clean with a soft cloth.

Clear Nail Polish

6. Wipe dust from the scratch with a clean cloth.

7. Fill the scratch mark with clear nail polish.

8. Wet a clean cloth with nail polish remover. Wipe up any clear nail polish from the area around the scratch with the cloth. Drape the cloth over a finger to remove the excess nail polish. Allow the clear polish to dry for 24 hours before cleaning.

9. Spray glass cleaner over the table top, and wipe it clean with a soft cloth.

Tags: glass table, nail polish, soft cloth, with soft, with soft cloth, clean cloth

What Is The Average Salary Of A Landscaper

Landscapers can include water features in their designs.

Landscapers, also known as landscape designers or architects, plan and develop the outdoor grounds around schools, residences, businesses, shopping centers, parks and golf courses. A bachelor's or master's degree is the minimum requirement, and 49 states require licenses, as of 2009, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Jobs will grow by 20 percent by 2018, which is faster than average for all professions.

Basics

Landscapers spend much of their time in the office creating designs for landscapes, preparing budgets and attending meetings with other landscape professionals. They then spend the remainder of the project at the outdoor site, analyzing the site to see how it fits in with the plans. Finally, they can spend time supervising the construction. Though most work a standard 40-hour week, about one in five worked over 50 hours a week to meet deadlines. Their median salary is $60,560 annually, with a range of $36,740 to $100,530. This translates to a median hourly wage of $29.12 hourly, with a range of $17.66 to $48.33. This is according to the BLS, as of May 2009.

Experience

Work longevity increases salary, according to the PayScale Report. The greater the experience, the wider the network of professionals that architects can call on to complete work. They also become more efficient at designs and at estimating budgets. New architects earn $37,680 to $48,840. At five to nine years of work, they make $44,327 to $59,525. Finally, with 20 or more years under their belts, they make $48,761 to $73,126. These figures are as of January 2011.

Employers

The BLS states that the biggest employers of landscapers are architectural and engineering services, which include landscaping firms and self-employed individuals. They comprise 63 percent of the jobs and pay better than the median at $31.92 per hour or $66,400 per year. The highest paying employers are specialty trade contractors, which are building services that do not include construction. They pay $47.35 hourly or $98,890 yearly but only offer 50 total jobs.

Cities

The BLS reveals that the city with the highest employment for landscapers is San Luis Obispo, California, with 0.75 landscapers per thousand workers. Salaries here are above average at $42.22 per hour or $87,820 per year. The city with the highest paying jobs is Bridgeport, Connecticut, where compensation is at $46.93 per hour or $97,610 per year.

Tags: hour year, city with, city with highest, highest paying, range This, they make

Give Away Mobile Homes In Kansas

Many people buy mobile homes because they are less expensive than regular homes. However, disposing of it when you no longer wish have a need for it is a difficult task. The options available depend on the actual condition of the home. Abandoning a mobile home in Kansas can lead to legal action against the owner. The best way to dispose of a mobile home that is in good condition is to give it to someone in need of it. Mobile homes that are beyond repair can be disposed of at the landfill after dismantling the recyclable parts.

Instructions

1. Donate to the needy. Check the mobile home to find out if it can be refurbished. Note down the improvements required and proceed to have the necessary changes made. When the home is ready to use, invite applications from those in need of housing. Screen the candidates who apply and ask for proof of viable income to make sure they can pay the monthly rent, utilities and insurance. On successful verification, hand over the mobile home to the new owner.

2. Provide it for firefighter practice. If the mobile home is in an isolated area, consider offering it for firefighter practice. Visit your local fire department and find out if they are willing to use the mobile home for training purposes. If they agree and carry out a few such sessions, all that will be left is the frame and metal portions. Dispose of these by selling to a metal scrap dealer.

3. Recycle and dump. Dumping entire crushed homes in landfills is damaging to the environment. Look up the websites of mobile home movers in Kansas like MobileHomeParkStore. Contact them and find out if they are willing to separate out metal components like frames, roofs and siding from the mobile home.

4. Dispose of mobile home at a landfill. Call up your county landfill office and inform them of your need to dispose of the mobile home. Answer the questions they ask regarding the condition of the mobile home. This will typically include inquiries regarding the location, use, contents and the trailer width. Answer the questions to get verbal approval to dispose the mobile home. Find out the disposal fee. Contact a mobile home hauler and have the mobile home transported to the landfill. Make the necessary payment and hand over the home.

Tags: mobile home, dispose mobile home, Answer questions, dispose mobile, find they, find they willing, firefighter practice

Troubleshoot & Repair Residential Central Air Conditioner Condensation Drain Tubes

Clear a condensate drain with Liquid Plumber Gel.

Clogged condensate drains can cause hundreds, or even thousands of dollars in damage to your home, says Alan Boleware, an air conditioning service technician. Installing a float switch on your air handler will prevent the coil pan from overflowing. A float switch detects water back-up and turns off the unit before the pan can overflow and spill out onto your floors. Float switches are relatively inexpensive, usually less than $100, and can save you thousands of dollars in water damage. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Find the condensate drain. It will be near your condenser (outside unit).

2. Check the ground around the drain for water. If you find very little water or no water, there is probably a clog.

3. Turn off the power to your air handler and condenser.

4. Open the panel on the air handler and examine the coil pan. Check for standing or over-flowing water.

5. Go outside to the condensate drain. Use a wet/dry vac to suck debris out of the tube. Make as tight a seal possible with a rag to fill in the gap between the small pvc pipe and the larger opening of the vacuum tube.

6. Go back to the air handler. Use an old toothbrush to clean the coil pan.

7. Pour 1/4 cup Liquid Plumber Gel into the pan using a funnel. Let it sit for five minutes. Water should begin to drain.

8. Pour 2 quarts of water into the pan. The water should drain easily to the outside pipe. Check the condensate drain for free-flowing water.

9. Replace panel to air handler. Turn on the power to both units. Restart the air conditioner.

Tags: condensate drain, float switch, Liquid Plumber, panel handler, thousands dollars

Remodel A Trailer House

Remodel a Trailer House

Trailer homes are traditionally one of the least expensive ways to have a place to call your own. But that doesn't mean your trailer home can't be stylish and upscale. You can begin remodeling your trailer home by replacing the original walls and floors. Remember to base your decisions on whether or not the trailer is on a permanent foundation--materials like drywall or wood flooring can crack if the trailer is ever moved. Talk with local authorities to find out if any restrictions apply. If necessary, obtain a building permit. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Evaluate how much your trailer house is worth on the open market. Create a budget that will help you improve the look of the space without over-investing. Remodel those areas that are in the worst need of updating first. Consider upgrading the kitchen and living areas with drywall and high-quality wood trim. Install crown modeling over new wall materials for an upscale look.

2. Consider adding extra insulation on exterior walls and in ceiling areas during any type of remodeling. Added insulation will save on heating and cooling bills, and this can help defray costs of remodeling.

3. Sketch ways to upgrade the kitchen and living areas. Install new countertops, flooring and appliances in the kitchen. Build a wall unit to hold media materials or incorporate a small electric fireplace for ambiance in the living area. Expand a bedroom into a master suite by utilizing closet space or hallway space.

4. Upgrade bathrooms by installing good quality wall materials or drywall. Buy new sinks, vanities and bath-shower combinations if your budget permits. Consider investing in a large garden tub for a master bathroom if you have room. Install new tile or wood flooring to give the bath area an upscale look.

5. Evaluate the exterior and the window placements. Install larger windows to open up a small living space and provide more light. Hire a master carpenter to assist in removing interior paneling and exterior sheathing to build framework for new windows.

Tags: your trailer, kitchen living, kitchen living areas, living areas, Remodel Trailer, Remodel Trailer House, trailer home

Facts About Home Warranty Insurance

Basic systems, like HVAC, electrical and plumbing are covered by home warranties.

Although home warranties are often confused with homeowners insurance, home warranties begin to provide service where homeowners insurance policy leaves off. A home warranty covers major appliances like a refrigerator or dishwasher as well as your furnace, air conditioner, plumbing and electrical systems. Basic coverage and prices vary by company, but all work in a similar way. You pay an annual premium of a few hundred dollars, then call the warranty company when a covered problem arises. For a flat service fee of $50 to $100, a professional technician repairs the problem.

Homeowner Insurance vs. Home Warranty

A homeowner insurance policy, in conjunction with hazard coverage, insures property against damage from natural disasters like fire, wind and flood. It does not cover repair charges, maintenance or replacement costs for major appliances, HVAC, electrical or plumbing systems. Lenders can require homeowner insurance if the property is financed, but people purchase a home warranty for convenience and savings on the cost of repairing or replacing appliances.

The Need for a Home Warranty

Owners of newly built homes are usually covered for one to five years with a builder's warranty or appliance manufacturer warranties. Carefully read the documents that come with your new home to understand the extent and time limitations of your coverage. Owners of homes over five years old can benefit from home warranty coverage as appliances begin to need repair. Landlords who rent out single family homes can benefit from the convenience of not having to respond to repair calls at odd hours and can save on the replacement of appliances beyond repair.

Potentially Negative Aspects of Home Warranties

Home warranty companies are not regulated the same in each state. Some states, such as California, highly regulate home warranty companies activities, while other states do not. If you are considering purchasing a home warranty, check which state agency monitors home warranty companies in your state. Check also with your local Better Business Bureau. Many companies operate in several states, which may contribute to their stability. You may not have control over the contractor chosen to do the work on your house, and the warranty companies lean toward repairing appliances over replacing them.

The Growing Popularity of Home Warranties

According to the Home Warranty Association of California (HWAC), a one-year warranty is included in the sale of nine out of 10 homes in the state. This is up from less than one out of 10 home sales in 1970. Sellers and real estate brokers often purchase the home warranty to reduce their liability should something go wrong with the home during the year after the sale. The HWAC reports that for every home warranty issued in California, approximately two claims occur each year. This claim ratio is more frequent than automobile, home or life insurance claims.

Tags: home warranty, warranty companies, benefit from, electrical plumbing, five years

U S Government Grants For Home Improvement

Sidewalk and driveway paving projects are eligible for government grants.

Home improvement projects can be financed by grants funded by several U.S. government agencies. Homeowners as well as nonprofit organizations in rural and urban communities are eligible for grants to pay for renovating homes and housing structures occupied by low-income families. Supply and equipment purchases and labor costs are eligible expenses under these grant programs.

Water and Waste Grants

Homeowners living in Colonial-style homes in Texas, California, New Mexico and Arizona needing to upgrade their plumbing systems can apply for Water & Waste grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. USDA grants are used to install plumbing pipes, water boilers, kitchen and bathroom sinks, commodes, tubs and showers. Entire bathrooms, if necessary, can be built into the homes as well. Hook-up fees may also be eligible for grant funds.

Weatherization Grants

Projects to weatherize homes can be funded through grants from the Department of Energy. Weatherizing homes saves homeowners money on their energy bills. Some of the projects covered by these grants include replacing windows, fixing roofs, insulating walls and attics and improving electrical, heating and cooling systems. Low-income families are eligible to apply for these projects. Average cost to weatherize a home under this program is $6,500.

VA Grants

Veterans who need to make home modifications to accommodate their disabilities are eligible for home improvement grants from the Department of Veteran Affairs. There are three VA grant programs available to veterans: Specially Adapted Housing (SAH), Special Home Adaptions (SHA) and Home Improvement and Special Alterations (HISA). SHA and SAH grants, worth up to $10,000 and $50,000 respectively, are only available to veterans with service-related disabilities. Under the HISA program, grants up to $4,100 are awarded to veterans with service-related disabilities and up to $1,200 to those with non-service related disabilities.

Neighborhood Stabilization Grants

Urban communities littered with abandoned and foreclosed homes can revitalize these housing structures with grants from the Department of Housing and Urban Development, or HUD. The Neighborhood Stabilization Grant program awards money to demolish uninhabitable residential structures and renovate and improve existing homes. Up to 25 percent of the renovated homes must be available to low-income families. Cities and counties with more than 50,000 and 200,000 residents respectively are eligible to apply for these grants.

Tags: from Department, grants from, grants from Department, apply these, available veterans

Tax Write Offs For Farms & Ranches

Farming can be a magnet for tax deductions.

As with any other small business, a farm or ranch can be used to write off a variety of expenses as tax deductions. The key phrase to hone in on when analyzing the applicable Internal Revenue Service (IRS) code is that the deduction was incurred as an "ordinary and necessary" cost of pursuing that particular business. You should consult the IRS for an in-depth discussion of exactly what is an appropriate write-off and what isn't, but there are general claims that can be made.

Deductible Expenses

Everyday direct costs associated with running your farm or ranch are deductible. Some expenses would include: livestock feed; medicine and vaccines; crop fertilizer; machinery like tractors, hay balers, and mowers; fencing supplies; cooperative dues, consultant fees; farming magazine subscriptions; educational expenses; and office supplies. To make it simple, any expense you find necessary to further your pursuit of running a profitable farm or ranch is tax deductible. Don't forget business related travel expenses, advertising and marketing costs, plus any fees paid to professionals such as an attorney or accountant for business-related issues.

Labor

Farmers and ranchers often hire help to assist in the daily operation of the business. Wages paid to such workers are a tax deductible expense, though care should be taken to process wages legally. The IRS differentiates between an employee and independent contractor. Designating your help as an independent contractor reduces the expense and bookkeeping workload for the employer but take care that yours fall in the strict definition of the category, which generally means they conduct their work at the time and place of their choosing. Otherwise, you should call them employees and be sure to withhold Social Security, Medicare, and income taxes from each paycheck. You can still deduct the full amount paid, including health insurance, workers' compensations, and other benefits, but should declare it all and make sure Uncle Sam gets his due.

Repairs and Maintenance

Another major expense category for farms and ranches that is fully deductible is the cost of repairs and maintenance. Know the difference between expenses for repairs and those for capital expenses. Simple repairs and routine maintenance are jobs, like repainting fence posts to keep them from rotting or rusting, or replacing shingles on the barn roof. A capital expense involves major work that substantially increases the value of a property or adapts it to a different use. For example, fixing a few shingles on the barn roof is a repair but replacing the entire roof is a capital expense. While a capital expense may be depreciable, it is normally not deductible.

Accountants

Understanding the IRS definitions of what is tax deductible and what isn't can be intimidating. A good accountant can be an expense that returns itself many times over in tax accuracy and peace of mind. Many accountants will even answer simple questions for free over the phone at no charge. Filling and filing your own farm or ranch tax forms can certainly be done, especially if you have a knack for numbers and reading legalese. If not, an accountant would love to talk to you.

Tags: farm ranch, capital expense, barn roof, farm ranch deductible, independent contractor

Fix A Remote Door Lock For A Ford Van

Ford keyless remotes are used to control your door locks.

Ford vans are equipped with a number of simple and standard technologies featured on most vehicles from the manufacturer. One such technology is the keyless remote entry system, which can be programmed or synced from your driver's seat. If your remote has stopped working, you can repair the remote in just a few minutes and have the remote ready to use right away.

Instructions

1. Use a blade to open your remote, running it along the edges of the remote to loosen the case, then wedging the blade into one spot to pop it open.

2. Lift out the battery, and place a new battery in the same spot. Close the remote again, and enter your van with it and your ignition key.

3. Insert your key into the Ford's ignition, and turn the key to the "Run" position and back to "Off" eight times in quick succession.

4. Wait for the door locks to cycle after the eighth turn, then press and hold the "Lock" or "Unlock" buttons on your remote within 30 seconds. Hold the button for as long as 20 seconds until the locks click again to complete the fix and reprogram the remote.

Tags: your remote, door locks

Government Incentives For Firsttime Home Buyers In Canada

Government incentives for first-time home buyers are available in Canada.

The Canada Revenue Agency provides tax incentives and programs to Canadian first-time home buyers to help finance the purchase of their first home. These incentives include an income tax credit, a tax sheltered savings plan, and a federal tax rebate on new home costs. New home owners can minimize their overall home costs by taking advantage of these programs within the required time limits.

First-Time Home Buyers' Tax Credit

First-time Canadian home buyers who bought a home after January 27, 2009 are eligible for the First-Time Home Buyers' Tax credit. This income tax credit is non-refundable, and is claimed during the tax year the home is purchased. Homes that qualify for the tax credit include existing or newly constructed single-detached houses, semi-detached houses, condominiums, multiplexes, apartment buildings and mobile homes. The homeowner must occupy the home in order to receive the tax credit. The tax credit amount is calculated by multiplying $5000 by the lowest personal tax rate, and is claimed by homeowners within their personal income tax returns.

Home Buyers' Plan

The Canada Revenue Agency provides a tax incentive to first-time home buyers who use their retirement savings to buy or build a home. Under the Home Buyer's Plan, first-time home buyers can withdraw up to $25,000 from their Registered Retirement Savings Plans with no tax penalty. Home buyers must enter into a written agreement to buy or build a home before they can withdraw funds within the Home Buyer's Plan. In addition, first-time buyers must occupy the home as their primary residence in order to be eligible. Home buyers are required to pay back the amount withdrawn from the plan in yearly installments, over a maximum of 15 years.

GST/HST New Housing Rebate

Although not restricted to first-time home buyers, the GST/HST New Housing Rebate is a tax rebate from the Canadian federal government that new home buyers can take advantage of. This rebate applies to newly built or substantially renovated homes that are owner constructed, or purchased from a builder. Owners have up to two years from the date of their home occupancy to submit a claim to receive the GST, or the federal portion of the HST, on costs such as land and construction materials. To qualify for this rebate, homes must be worth less than fair market value of $450,000. Additional tax rebates for new home construction are also available in some Canadian provinces.

Tags: home buyers, first-time home, first-time home buyers, Home Buyers, Agency provides

Miami Technical Schools

Miami has a number of technical schools

Technical education is the beginning of a road leading to a skilled trade that you can carry with you throughout your life. Particularly when the economy is in rough shape, having a technical trade can make it easier for you to stay employed and provide for yourself and your family. Those looking at technical trades in Miami will find ample opportunities for study.

City College

City College is a Florida-based vocational and technical college system with three campuses, including one in Miami. Associate of Science degrees are offered in health and medical fields, broadcasting, business accounting and management, nursing and private investigation services. Diplomas are available in phlebotomy, medical assisting and medical coding and billing. As of 2010 the school costs $235 per credit for all students. Financial aid representatives will work with in-need students to find means to fund their career education.

City College

9300 South Dadeland Blvd.

PH, Miami, FL 33156

(305) 666-9242

citycollege.edu

FastTrain

FastTrain is a technical training school where students can receive a certificate in less than a year. The campus is accredited and licensed. FastTrain offers training in two fields--health care careers (which includes medical assistant and medical coding and billing) and computer technology (which includes computer repair, network administration and management information systems). FastTrain also helps students obtain financial aid as well as offering a placement program.

FastTrain

Miami Campus

5555 W. Flagler St.

Miami, FL 33134

(305) 262-4748

fasttrain.edu

Florida Career College

Florida Career College is a multi-campus career institute which includes a campus in Miami. FCC has five schools under its umbrella including schools for business, information technology, allied health, wellness and cosmetology. The college offers a career services office that arranges career fairs, on-campus recruiting, resume referrals and workshops on subjects such as job searches, resume building and interviewing.

Florida Career College

1321 Southwest 107th Avenue

Miami, FL 33174-2523

(305) 377-4516

careercollege.edu

Keiser University

Keiser University is a multi-campus institution with a campus in the Kendall area of Miami, FL. Students can study technical oriented disciplines such as health science, information technology, nursing, health services administration, medical assisting, nuclear medicine technology and radiologic technology. Courses are available for both bachelor and associates degrees.

Keiser University

8505 Mills Drive

Miami, Florida 33183

(305) 596-2226

keiseruniversity.edu

Technical Career Institute

The Technical Career Institute offers diploma and associate degree programs to Miami since 1975. TCI has a career services department that helps students find placement in their fields after graduation. Programs include computer and networking technology, computer software applications, dental assisting, paramedic training, medical assisting, pharmacy technology and phlebotomy.

Technical Career Institute

7757 W Flagler St #230

Miami, FL 33144-2373

(305) 261-5511‎

technicalcareerinstitute.edu

ATI Career Training Center

ATI Career Training Center is multi-campus career and technical training institute with a location in Miami. The Miami campus offers training in automotive repair, electronics and HVAC systems. Employment assistance is offered to ATI graduates in the form of resume assistance, job coaching, part-time job placement while studying and career-long job placement assistance.

ATI Career Training Center

7265 NW 25th Street

Miami, FL 33122

(305) 599-9710

aticareertraining.edu

Tags: Career College, Career Training, Career Training Center, City College, Florida Career, Florida Career College

Repair Chipped Enamel On An Appliance

Through regular wear and tear, the enamel on any appliance can fall victim to surface chipping. Once an unsightly chip has materialized, you can complete damage control to make it appear less noticeable -- or possibly even invisible -- to the untrained eye. Use the right supplies to repair chipped enamel on an appliance and take your time to achieve results that are as close to professional grade as possible. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Pick away any loose enamel flakes with your fingers before beginning. Sand the chipped enamel with a piece of 120-grit sandpaper, making sure to smooth out the rough edges. Wipe the area with a clean lint-free cloth after sanding to remove the residual dust.

2. Shake the bottle of appliance touch-up paint to mix the pigments. Unscrew the cap and pull the brush from the bottle. Make one or two brushstrokes on the opening of the bottle to rid the brush of excess paint.

3. Brush the paint onto the chipped area and allow the first coat to dry for the time recommended by the product instructions. Apply a second coat once the first coat is dry.

Tags: enamel appliance, first coat

Get Possession Of Your Home During Divorce

If you want to obtain possession of your home after your divorce, do not move out. Get your spouse to leave, if at all possible.

Instructions

1. Think about which parent your children will live with. It usually makes the most sense for the children to remain in the home.

2. Know that if you get custody, you have a better chance of getting the house. But don't ask for custody just because you want the house. The children should live with the parent who has the most time and best parenting skills.

3. Consider the mortgage payments. Will you and your ex-spouse be able to afford them after the divorce? The two of you are going to have the same total income you had before the divorce, but you will have to pay for a second residence.

4. Ask your spouse to move out as soon as you know you want to keep the house. You will have a better chance of being awarded the home if you are the only one living in it.

5. Do not move out yourself. It may be nearly unbearable to live in the same house with your soon-to-be ex, but if you leave, you're less likely to get possession.

6. Ask the court for a removal order, which will give you temporary possession of the home and force your spouse to move out while the case is heard. Removal orders are generally granted when there is danger of physical abuse.

7. Be prepared to prove to the court why you should get possession. Some good reasons are: you run a business out of the home and it would be a hardship to move the business, you have custody of your children, you have the ability to care for the home, you can make the mortgage payments.

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Claim Rent On Income Taxes

Federal and state tax laws limit tax deductions for renters.

When you own rental property, both federal and state governments provide a number of tax deductions that can increase profit potential. Allowable deductions include direct and indirect costs such as mortgage interest, depreciation, insurance premiums and repairs. Because as a tenant you do not normally incur these costs, federal and state tax laws limit your option to claim rent on income taxes.

State Income Tax

Your chance of claiming rent on state income taxes is far greater than with federal taxes. Although not every state offers a direct rent credit, those that do generally offer a deduction for a portion of the rent you pay. For example, in Indiana, as of 2012, you can deduct up to $3,000 of annual rent, not including any utilities your landlord pays on your behalf. In Wisconsin, whether you can claim rent depends on meeting specific requirements, one of which concerns your annual income. Wisconsin Homestead Credit 2012 regulations state that your income must be less than $24,680. In addition, your landlord must provide a rent certificate for you to include with your tax return showing the amount of annual rent and whether you are responsible for payment of utilities. The maximum amount you can claim is $1,160.

Property/Real Estate Tax Deductions

The federal government does not provide a direct tax deduction for renters. However, if the terms of your rental agreement or lease state that you are responsible for paying all or part of the property or real estate taxes on a rental unit, the Internal Revenue Service allows you to deduct this cost. To claim the deduction, you must provide a statement from your landlord showing the amount of tax for which you are responsible. In addition, you must file your taxes using Schedule A of Form 1040.

Casualty Deductions

If you rent a home and incur losses because of a natural disaster or theft, the IRS allows you to deduct the loss. The amount you can claim, according to IRS 2012 regulations, is the net amount after subtracting any salvage value and insurance reimbursement. Just as with claiming a property tax deduction, you must file taxes using Schedule A of Form 1040 as well as complete Form 4684 to report casualty losses.

Tips

Tax laws and regulations can be confusing, Before deciding whether you qualify for any federal deductions, consider consulting with a tax professional. To find out if your state offers a tax deduction for renters, ask a tax professional or contact the department of revenue for the state in which you live.

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Storm Windows Vs Replacement Windows

If the windows in your home have a tendency to leak or are drafty, you might weight the prospect of replacing the window entirely or installing a storm window. A storm window is a multi-layered window that can be installed in addition to the previously existing window to stop the leaks. Does this Spark an idea?

How Do Storm Windows Work?

One of the most common types of storm window is the triple rack, which features two glass screens and an additional screen that can slide up and down. This type of window is installed on either the interior or exterior of the current window. The interior is considered a superior placement option, particularly in older homes, because it allows the home to retain its look. These windows can be removed during more temperate seasons.

How Do Replacement Windows Work?

The term replacement windows refers more to cutting a new window that fits within the existing frame. This term is generally considered a catch-all phrase for any type of window that is designed to replace a previous window that is leaking or broken. Compared to storm windows, these windows serve as a permanent fixture in a home.

Cost

Because a new window must be cut to fit and installed, replacement windows are generally more expensive than storm windows. Replacement windows must be strong enough to stand and protect a home on their own, but storm windows can vary in price because of cheaper inputs, which can range from plastic sheets and films to more substantial three-windowpane systems. Storm windows are more easy to install as well.

Energy Efficiency

The amount of energy efficiency and insulation provided for each window depends on the type of window purchased. Replacement windows are generally more energy-efficient, particularly if they have an energy-efficient seal as designated by the U.S. Department of Energy. Storm windows do not add as much to a home's insulation as they are often installed to serve as temporary solutions to leaking windows.

Weighing Your Investment

Whichever window you choose to install, consider a cost-benefit analysis: Will the benefits reaped through window installation be worth the money you spend? If you do not anticipate staying in your home, live in a temperate climate that does not require much insulation or prefer to employ a cheaper method, storm windows might be for you. However, if you need a window that is longer-lasting, replacing the existing window is your best option.

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Repair A Drain Field

A drain field, sometimes referred to as a leach field, is a portion of a septic sewer system. The drain field is made up of perforated pipe through a field of pea rock or stone. This allows the waste water to drain away. According to the website of El Dorado County, California, drain fields occasionally fail for a variety of reasons. Repairs are sometimes possible although replacement of the drain field is sometimes inevitable. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Repair a Drain Field

1. Determine the cause of the drain field failure. Some of the possible causes for a drain field failure include blockage of the pipes by roots or solid sewage materials, flooding of the drain field by high water and infiltration or clogging of the pipe perforations by fine soil.

Problems with the drain field are usually noted when sewage will not drain from the house or wastewater ponds on the surface over the drain field. Problems with tree roots can be assumed if trees or shrubs are growing in the drain field. Groundwater flooding is usually obvious while other causes will often have to be inferred from the circumstances leading to the drain field problem.

For example, if water won't drain from sinks, tubs or toilets within the house shortly after a heavy rain groundwater infiltration may be the problem. If tree roots and ground water have been eliminated as possibilities the problem is likely blockage due to soil infiltration or solid sewage in the drain field.

2. Make repairs as needed. If the problem was caused by the drain field being plugged with roots a root removal service may be able to solve the problem.

Other problems require more drastic repairs.

If the perforated pipe of the drain field is plugged by solid sewage materials the only answer may be to replace the drain field. Similar future problems can be prevented by pumping the solids from the septic tank periodically.

Flooded drain fields can occur for any number of reasons. If the flood occurred due to rare weather phenomenon the solution may be to just wait for things to dry out and hope it doesn't occur again. If the problem is ongoing and unavoidable the drain field may have to be rebuilt in another location. The new drain field should be constructed above the high water areas.

If the drain field becomes plugged with soil there are few options other than building a new drain field. Little can be done to prevent this from occurring again. Soils infiltrating into the rock field is a part of the aging process of the drain field. However, vehicle traffic over the drain field does increase the likelihood of soil infiltration.

3. Maintain the new or repaired drain field. Keep sewage solids from the drain field by pumping the septic tank periodically. Limit surface ground water in the area of the drain field by providing drainage and limiting irrigation in the area. Limit traffic, including farm equipment, from the area of the drain field and keep the area clear of any large shrubs or trees.

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Apply For Home Buying Grants

Grants are available to home buyers.

If you are looking to buy a home, mortgage loans may not be your only method of financing the purchase. The federal government, state governments, local governments and private organizations offer grants for certain home buyers. Grants are free money, not loans, and they do not incur interest or need to be paid back. There is an uncomplicated, straightforward method to obtaining grant financing for your next home purchase.

Instructions

1. Determine your qualifications. Grants are usually issued to home buyers with specific needs, positions or qualities. These include first-time home purchasers, teachers, police officers, military veterans, persons with disabilities and those from low-income backgrounds. If you fall under one of those categories, you have a much higher chance of receiving a grant.

2. Search for grant opportunities. A simple web search will lead you to many websites that list grant opportunities for home buyers. Such websites include Home Buyer Funds, which is a website that lists home buyer grant opportunities from federal, state, local and private sources; and Grants.gov, which is a federal website that lists various types of grants. Use these websites and others you may find to locate interesting grants.

3. Read the application instructions. Once you have located a potential grant, write down the information, including grant name, contact person and application instructions. Some grants will allow you to apply online, others require that you mail in an application or fill out an application in person.

4. Apply for the grant. Once you have read the application instructions, apply for the grant. Make sure you include all of the application materials requested in the grant posting.

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