The Transitional Housing program for Veterans is a subcategory of the HUD (Housing and Urban Development) Section 8 program. In order to accept HUD Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing vouchers (HUD-VASH), a landlord must apply to participate in the Section 8 housing program. A preference for HUD-VASH vouchers can be stated, but due to the limited number available, it is possible that there will not be many eligible veterans in your area.
Instructions
1. Visit your local housing authority. They will guide you through filling out the necessary paperwork. HUD provides a list of Housing Authority offices on its website (see Resources).
2. Provide any information required by your local housing agency. This may vary by location, but generally includes the number and size of the rental units you have available.
3. Alter your advertising and apartment listings to reflect that you accept Section 8 and HUD-VASH vouchers. Recipients of the vouchers find their own housing, so they need to know that you are willing to rent to them.
4. Schedule a property inspection with the housing authority to ensure that your apartment meets the renters' needs and complies with HUD requirements. You will be given a time frame to make any necessary repairs. If the repairs are not made, the voucher holder will have to look for another rental unit.
5. Review and sign the lease with your new tenant. Section 8 and HUD-VASH leases are for a year at a time.
Tags: housing authority, HUD-VASH vouchers, local housing, Section HUD-VASH, Transitional Housing, your local, your local housing
Look beyond Florida's beautiful beaches and gaudy tourist destinations and you'll find many people living in chronic poverty. These Floridians find it difficult to pay their bills even during good economic times, and the number of people who can't meet their living expenses grows even higher during an economic downturn. More than 13 percent of Floridians lived below the poverty line in 2008, according to U.S. Census estimates. Fortunately, there are places they can turn to for help.
State Assistance
The Florida Department of Children & Families provides cash, food and medical assistance to low-income Floridians through its ACCESS Florida program. Applicants must meet income and asset qualifications. Temporary cash assistance is available for families with children in the home, or pregnant women in the third trimester of pregnancy. Applicants must either work or be looking for a job, unless they are exempt. To qualify, gross income must be less than 185 percent of the federal poverty level. (The federal poverty level in 2009 to 2010 was $903 per month for a family of one.) The maximum asset limit to receive assistance is $2,000. The Department of Children & Families site has a fact sheet with detailed rules.
The food stamp program has an income limit of 130 percent of the federal poverty level and a $2,000 asset limit. The Medicaid income limit is 100 percent of the federal poverty level with a $2,000 asset limit. The regulations are very detailed, but the Department of Children & Families has an online application prescreening to make the process easier.
Weatherization
State and federal governments fund a program that pays to repair dwellings, improve insulation, repair or replace inefficient heating and cooling systems and other improvements to make homes more energy efficient and comfortable. The weatherization program is administered through local nonprofit and government agencies.
Every county and many cities have different agencies that administer the program. The state has set income limits that start at $21,660 for a family of one. A list of the agencies and contact information for your county or city can be found on the Florida Department of Community Affairs (DCA) Web site, or you can call toll-free 877-352-3232.
Utility Assistance
Low-income residents may be able to get grants to pay their utility bills through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. Like weatherization, this program is administered by local nonprofit agencies throughout the state. The state DCA has set income limits that start at $21,660 for a family of one. A list of the agencies with contact information for your county or city can be found on the DCA site, or you can call the DCA at 877-352-3232
Housing
Throughout the state, various agencies have programs to help with housing expenses. The details of these programs vary from county to county, based on the details of the grants received by the local agencies. For instance in 2010 in Leon County, some low-income clients can receive up to $2,000 to use for a down payment on a home. And in Duval County, some clients can receive help paying their rent or making mortgage payments. The income limit is $21,660 for a family of one.
A list of agencies with contact information for your county or city can be found on the DCA site or you can call the DCA at 877-352-3232.
Tags: federal poverty, federal poverty level, poverty level, your county city, asset limit, Children Families
The Federal HUD website is a great resource for housing assistance grants.
Federal and state governments have stepped up grant provisions to help people deal with the tough economic conditions. In the case of assistance for housing, financial aid is available for everything from home repair and renovation to buying a home. You need not be intimidated by the grant proposal process, though. It is not necessary for you to be a trained granter writer in order to successfully write a grant for free housing. Anyone with satisfactory writing skills and the ability to do research can create an effective grant proposal.
Instructions
1. Find the grant opportunity that best fits your needs by searching online for "housing grants". The U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) website is an excellent resource for this, but you can also do a search for housing grants in your state. Some individual states have grant opportunities that might not be listed on the federal site.
2. Read carefully through the guidelines or policy memo for the grant you want to apply for. It is important to make sure that you qualify for the grant according to the policy and that you understand all of the requirements for submitting an application, including the deadline for submission and any limitations on funding or purchasing amounts.
3. Write the proposal, sticking to the guidelines outlined in the policy memo. You will have to address the need, how the funding of your request fits in with the objective of the grant opportunity, an evaluation plan that will show that the need has been met and a budget that justifies the amount of money you are requesting.
4. Submit your proposal to the agency or office indicated in the guidelines, preferably prior to the deadline. Many agencies require electronic submissions, but even a submission done through a website can take some time, so it is a good idea to try to have your submission ready before the actual deadline, in case any difficulties occur.
Tags: grant opportunity, grant proposal, housing grants, policy memo
Home renovation can be an exciting project whether it is out of necessity to meet building and safety codes or purely for cosmetic purposes to increase the home's beauty and/or value. To help transform this concept into reality, consider grants available through local, state and federal government resources. If homeowners fail to qualify for grants, government agencies can assist in procuring low-interest loans for home improvements. Does this Spark an idea?
Types of Home Improvement Grants
Renovation project
Depending on the community demographics and income levels, grants are available for nearly every home improvement/renovation imaginable, from the smallest repairs to actually relocating entire houses.
Available home renovation grant funding includes money for repairs, renovations and upgrades to home interiors and exteriors; electrical, heating, cooling, plumbing and roofing improvements; remodeling and expansion projects; house relocation and new home construction and purchases, including funds for down payments.
Homes that can be renovated to meet building codes are prime candidates for grants, as are homes that need to be altered to accommodate occupants with physical disabilities. Energy-saving home improvement grants are becoming more readily available in many states. Grants requested solely for decorative or expansion projects are not generally available.
Applicant Requirements
Unlike private institutions, most government grant applicants do not need to worry about credit checks, bankruptcies, bad credit or procuring a co-signer. Any U.S. citizen at least 18 years old is eligible to apply. The process is quick, free and eligibility can be determined almost immediately, as well as alternate sources provided.
Guidelines and Restrictions
Federal grant funding is often based on income levels, age, disability status and geographic location. State grant funding generally focuses on communities in need of rebuilding and renovations to improve their financial stability, although some middle- to upper-income applicants may qualify for funds to upgrade energy-inefficient homes. Local grants offered by towns, cities and counties normally focus on home improvements that would be beneficial to entire communities such as water conservation, energy-saving improvements or planting of trees or ground cover to reduce erosion. In rare instances, grants may be available to preserve historical sites or homes.
Grant Alternatives
There are other money-saving avenues available to those who do not qualify for government grants. Low-interest loans are a popular alternative, as are tax rebates for home improvements that reduce energy consumption. These can include but are not limited to replacing older energy-inefficient major appliances and replacing water-gobbling lawns with artificial surfaces.
Information Resources
Fee-based services for grant, loan and tax rebate resources are readily available, but the same information is often available for free online and through community resources such as chambers of commerce and community centers.
Tags: grant funding, grants available, home improvements, expansion projects, Home Improvement, home improvement, home improvements that
With its introduction of the Windows 7 operating system on Oct. 22, 2009, Microsoft Corp. offered six editions, including the Professional, Enterprise and Ultimate versions. The Professional edition is recommended for small business users, while the Enterprise edition is better suited for mid- to large-sized businesses. The Ultimate edition is on the same level as Enterprise, the only difference being that Microsoft restricts sale of the latter to licensed enterprise users; the former is available for retail.
Main Features
Just like its consumer-oriented Starter, Home Basic and Home Premium siblings, the Professional, Ultimate and Enterprise versions of Windows 7 have certain basic features. These include applications and productivity tools such as WordPad, Paint and calculator; search bars and task bars; troubleshooting and repair tools such as Startup Repair and System Restore, and the Internet Explorer Web browser (IE8). Microsoft, however, also provides the Windows 7 Ultimate and Enterprise editions with the ability to perform functions such as menu display and to offer Help topics in 35 languages.
Security
Each Windows 7 Professional, Ultimate and Enterprise operating system has a backup and restore feature, Windows Firewall and Windows Defender for protection against harmful agents such as viruses and malware, user account control for exclusive access to computer system settings, and Credential Manager for storing data such as user names and passwords for access to websites and other systems. Microsoft adds BitLocker to the Windows 7 Ultimate and Enterprise editions. It is a feature that protects the data stored in the hard drive of a computer system from loss or theft by encrypting it, which means it is transformed into code understandable only by authorized users.
IT Features
For specific professionals, particularly those working in the information technology departments of companies, Windows 7 Professional offers the ability to access files even when the user is not connected to the network and a Group Policy Management interface as an arm of company administration. The Ultimate and Enterprise editions of Windows 7 add several other features, which include AppLocker for IT professionals to control the applications that employees can use, BranchCache to speed up file access and DirectAccess to connect mobile users.
Entertainment
The Windows 7 Professional, Ultimate and Enterprise operating systems have the 12th iteration of the Windows Media Player application -- or Windows Media Player 12 -- which customers use to play music, videos and other digital content. It is one of the features of the included home-entertainment hub called the Windows Media Center, which provides features such as Internet television, photo gallery, high-definition TV show recording and podcasting. Also included are Play To and Remote Media Streaming for enhanced streaming of content; and multiplayer games such as Internet Checkers, Internet Spades and Internet Backgammon.
Tags: Ultimate Enterprise, Professional Ultimate, Enterprise editions, Professional Ultimate Enterprise, Ultimate Enterprise editions, Windows Media
Being in a car accident can be a devastating experience, especially if your car is considered a total loss. Totaled cars are ones in which the value to repair them exceeds the actual value of the car - or - cars that, constructively, aren't safe to repair. Regardless of which category your vehicle falls into, one thing is for sure, you'll have to settle the total with an insurance adjuster. As a result, you'll need to understand the process and what to do. Here's a bit of help.
Instructions
1. Decide if you want to keep your car.
Before the insurance adjuster offers you a value on your totaled car, he will want to know if you plan on keeping the salvage. The salvage is the state of your car as it is right after the accident. If you don't want to go through the process of disposing of parts or selling a totaled car, it's best to give it up to the insurance company. They will add the value onto your total loss offer. On the other hand, if you decide to keep your car, remember that you will have to dispose of it and the value of the salvage will be deducted off of the offer of your totaled car.
2. Write down the specifics of your car.
On paper, write down the specifics of your car. It should include the year, mileage and accessories like CD players, AC, automatic windows, etc. Also, take this time to gather any receipts of add ons over the past year.
3. Search the internet and other newspapers for "like" cars.
Like cars are ones that are similar to yours. They should be ones being sold in your zip code with similar years and specs. Use this information to get a value for your vehicle. Understand that private owners tend to sell their vehicles at a deal while car dealerships sell at a higher price to cover overhead. So, your car's value should be somewhere in the middle or towards the cost of private sells.
4. Negotiate the value of your car.
Your insurance adjuster will call you after they calculate a value of your car. Before you accept it, go over everything. Make sure they have the specifics of your car right. These things are what actually drive the cost. Blue books aren't really used by the majority of insurance companies because as soon as they are published, the values are obsolete. Keep this in mind just in case you want to use it as a bargaining chip.
5. Agree on a value of your car.
With all of your information, you should be able to come to an agreement on the value of your car. If your insurance adjuster is way off, you can use your research to support your value. This means you may have to fax or mail in copies of receipts. Don't let a low offer upset you to the point that you get too emotional and delay an agreement. Remember, agreements are often compromises that both parties settle on. So don't get stuck.
6. Send in the necessary paperwork.
After you agree on a total loss value, their will paperwork that the insurance company wants you to sign. Lots of time it has to do with the DMV and release of your car (if you give it to them). So understand the sooner you complete and return it, the sooner you get a check and move on with life.
7. Receive and cash your check.
Now that you've completed the process, all you need to do is receive and cash your check. You should get a check in the mail within a week or two after you've sent your signed paperwork back. If you haven't gotten anything, call the insurance company.
Tags: value your, insurance adjuster, insurance company, specifics your, cars ones, cash your, cash your check
You will need to remove the old bake element from your Tappan oven to get a proper replacement part. Because of the different sizes of bake elements, have the old one with you when purchasing the replacement. The bake element ends fit into mounting holes in the rear oven wall, so be sure that the new element matches the faulty one exactly. Frigidaire manufacturers the Tappan oven; however not all Frigidaire bake elements fit the Tappan oven. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Remove the storage drawer from the bottom of the Tappan range. Reach inside the drawer cavity and disconnect the power cord from the electrical outlet.
2. Open the oven door and remove the lower cooking rack. Remove the two screws that secure the bake element to the oven's rear wall with a Phillips-head screwdriver.
3. Pull the bake element toward the front of the oven until you can see the wires that connect to the terminal ends. Pull the ends of the wires off the bake element terminals with your fingers. Pull the bake element out of the oven.
4. Place the new element into the oven with the terminal ends facing the back of the oven. Slide the oven wires over the terminal ends.
5. Insert the ends of the bake element into the back of the oven and secure with the retaining screws. Place the cooking rack back in the oven and close the oven door.
6. Plug the power cord back into the outlet and put the storage drawer back into its location under the oven.
Tags: bake element, back oven, Tappan oven, terminal ends, back into
Many people with great ideas for a business may be overwhelmed with all the steps involved in starting their own company. While the process may seem overwhelming, the state of Nevada is known as a very business-friendly place, and therefore has many resources to help new entrepreneurs. As Nevada's largest city, Las Vegas is a great place for taking advantage of all the state's business development organizations. They make applying for permits, setting up tax accounts, and getting your business off the ground as easy as possible.
Instructions
1. Apply for a state business license from the Nevada Department of Taxation at 555 East Washington Avenue, Las Vegas, Nevada 89101. To confirm hours or required documents before you go, call (702) 486-2300. Set up state income, payroll, and sales tax accounts with the taxation department after you have received your state license.
2. Obtain a City of Las Vegas business license. This is separate from the state license. City licenses can be obtained at the Las Vegas Business Services Division on the 3rd floor of City Hall, which is located at 400 Stewart Ave in Las Vegas.
3. Decide what form your business will take. Because of favorable tax laws and pro-business policies, Nevada is one of the most popular states to form corporations in. If you decide to incorporate, you can file your forms with the Nevada Department of Taxation. You will need to provide an application form, a set of Articles of Incorporation, and a small fee.
4. Create a business plan. This is helpful for pointing out areas of your business that may need further planning, and is required if you plan to apply for financing or small business loans.
Tags: your business, business license, Department Taxation, Nevada Department, Nevada Department Taxation
You have probably seen them hundreds of time and never given them a second thought: those sturdy wooden pallets that manufacturers ship tons of goods on, that usually just get discarded after the retailer unpacks the merchandise. A lot of these structures end up in landfills every year. However, with some ingenuity and creativity, you can find plenty of uses for these pallets that will save them from the landfill and give them new purpose. Does this Spark an idea?
For Sale
According to Martin Buckley, an entrepreneur who blogs about his offbeat business services, you can make a pretty good income by starting your own wooden pallet recycling business. You can go around to local businesses that get a lot of deliveries on these pallets. Tell the owner or manager of the business that you would be willing to haul away the pallets for free. Usually, they have to pay to have them removed, so they probably will have no objection to this. Find out when they usually need these removed and you can set up a regular schedule to collect them. All you need is a flatbed pickup truck so that you can pick up pallets from different places on your route. Set aside some of the most damaged pallets to use as scrap. Then repair the others by replacing broken boards from the scrap. You can then sell the repaired pallets to manufacturing companies and pallet companies.
Housing
I-Beam Design is an innovative New York architecture and design firm that created a humanitarian use for wooden pallets. They designed a house made entirely out of these wooden pallets in response to the overwhelming number of refugees returning to Kosovo, and their need for temporary shelter. The pallets are sturdy and abundant and are already being sent to these areas with food and supplies. The design won an honorable mention in a contest called the Returning Refugees of Kosovo, and has been featured in many magazines and design journals.
Flooring
Oaks Unlimited of Waynesville, North Carolina has become the first company to recycle old wooden pallets and turn them into hardwood flooring. The pallets can be disassembled, and individual boards used in the floors. This is an eco-friendly solution that uses already existing cut wood instead of harvesting new lumber.
Wooden Fence
There are also plenty of uses for wooden pallets that you can employ in your own home. Clay Sawyer of Backwoods Home Magazine explains make a fence out of these discarded pallets. First you need to cut wooden posts made out of dry hardwood. Then remove every other board from the front of the pallet and all the boards from the back, so it resembles a fence design. You can use a jigsaw to cut the top of the boards into a rounded or picket pattern. Attach several pallet boards to each post and then attach each pallet fence section to these boards.
Art
You don't necessarily need some kind of functional household use in order to recycle an old wooden pallet. According to the Pallet Project, pallets can be a great medium for sculptural works of art. The Pallet Project is a website that explores the artistic possibilities of the pallet. The artists featured on the website have found different ways to manipulate the wood, stack the pallets, write on them, paint them and many other transformations.
The women and men of the armed forces dedicate their lives to serving and protecting America, and assisting countless others around the world during times of need and difficulty. Often, in the line of duty, these brave warriors are injured and have to face new challenges in coping with their disability. Fortunately, there are many grants available to help disabled vets, caring for them as they cared for their country.
Disabled Veterans National Foundation
The Disabled Veterans National Foundation provides generous grants to disabled vets to help them with many expenses, from procuring housing to purchasing groceries and other essentials and even select travel costs. Grant amounts vary and the organization does not have strict criteria for bestowing the awards, and reviews each application on a case by case basis, asking veterans to fill out a brief questionnaire detailing their situation.
Disabled Veterans National Foundation, Inc.
1634 Eye Street, NW, Suite 750
Washington, DC 20006
1-888-782-2148
dvnf.org
Specially Adapted Housing Grant
Disabled veterans often need to make extensive modifications to their homes in order to make them compatible with their disability, requiring them to use things like specially designed showers and wheelchair ramps. To help with such remodeling expenses, the Specially Adapted Housing Grant provides disabled vets with up to $63,780 to customize their living space as needed. To qualify, vets must have extreme vision problems or the loss of their extremities.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
810 Vermont Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20420
1-800-827-1000
Disabled Veteran Combat Duty Grant
The Disabled Veteran Combat Duty Grant assists disabled vets living Hillsborough County, Florida, with their property tax expenses. Applicants must have a disability rating from the government and have spent at least 45 days in a combat zone after December 31st, 2006 to qualify. The grant is worth a maximum of $1,500 or the cost of the recipients property taxes and may be renewed for five years in total.
Veteran Affairs Office
10119 Windhorst Road
Tampa, FL 33619
813-975-2181
hillsboroughcounty.org
Operation Homefront
To serve disabled veterans and their families during times of need, Operation Homefront offers various grants and forms of financial assistance. Saying that "even heroes need some help," the organization provides grants to cover the cost of emergency dental care, car expenses, rent and utilities costs, and childcare in the event of sickness or surgery. Applications are reviewed on a case by case basis and are awarded through local chapters.
Operation Homefront
8930 Fourwinds Drive, Suite 340
San Antonio, Texas 78239
210-659-7756
oh.net
Tags: disabled vets, Disabled Veterans National, National Foundation, Operation Homefront, Veterans National, Veterans National Foundation
It should not take you more than three days to completely repaint a tractor.
Charging labor for painting is usually only done when a professional painter subcontracts jobs out to painters who do not have supplies. It can also be an attractive option for tractor owners who want to save money by going directly to the painter. For a beginner or part time painter it can be difficult to figure out what to charge. Keep in mind that the client should provide all the supplies including paints, primers, fillers, sanders, a paint sprayer and anything else needed to paint the tractor. The laborers should only be required to do things related to painting the vehicle.
Instructions
1. Figure out how many hours it will take to paint the tractor. Use personal experience as your guide or ask around for an estimate. Keep in mind that it will take time to sand or buff off any rust and wash the tractor (the tractor's owner can do this to save money) and use fillers to make small repairs where necessary. In terms of painting, you will need time to cover anything that shouldn't be painted, mix the paint and primers, apply them, apply second or third coats and possibly wait for the tractor to dry.
2. Find out the average cost of labor in your area. There are websites specifically dedicated to painting where you can find out the going rate for the average painter in your area. Look for websites that analyze auto body or tractor specific painting, not residential painting. Auto Body Online shows the present national average labor cost by the hour, while the Bureau of Labor Statistics site can tell you the average yearly income of painters in your state. The yearly income does not include the cost of supplies so you can use it to figure out how much you should charge by the hour by following the instructions in the next step. Another option is to check out a brand specific website, such as the Allis Chalmers Forum and see what people are paying to get their tractors repainted.
3. Figure out how much you will need to earn per hour to make enough money by the end of the month. For example, if you need $3,000 per month --- for an average income of $36,000 a year --- and plan to work 30 days, you will need to earn $100 each day on average. Divide the $100 by the amount of hours you will work each day; for example, a tractor will only take a few hours a day for two or three days. So if you are an experienced painter earning around $20 per hour you would only need to work five hours per day, but you would probably not spend all that time on the tractor. So if you only spent three hours painting the tractor your day rate should be $60. This number would be much more if you were bringing the supplies so do not work for this price if you are not offered all the materials. If you are charging by the job and not the day or hour, multiply your hourly rate by a reasonable estimate of the number of hours total (not including drying time) it will take to complete the task. For example, $20 an hour times 20 hours of labor would be $400 for the complete job.
4. Keep in mind is that this is an example of figure out your price, your exact labor charge should vary depending on the local average pay and cost of living. For example if the local average is $60 per hour, don't charge $100, but you should also not charge $30. The price you charge should give you a realistic living wage in your area while still being in the average pay range. If you charge too much (and aren't doing specialty work) then you will get no clients. On the other hand, if you charge too little, you will not have enough money to live on and may lower the local average. In most cases the only ones who can afford to charge lower amounts are those who do a bad job and end up costing the customer more in the end.
Tags: charge should, Keep mind, Keep mind that, local average, mind that, will need, will take
, by nature, takes a lot of abuse. Having a treadmill repaired professionally can be a costly procedure that will often exceed the value of the treadmill. With some simple techniques and knowledge, you can repair your treadmill at home.
Lack Of Power
If your treadmill has lost power over time, and no longer moves when you step onto it, there's a good chance that the belt is worn and slipping inside of the machine. Unplug the treadmill and use a screwdriver to remove any screws holding the hood on. Look inside the treadmill and inspect the belt. If it looks worn or ripped, you'll need to replace it. Contact the treadmill's manufacturer to ask for a replacement belt. You can do the installation yourself by removing the old belt and weaving the new one through the pulleys. The internal assembly of most treadmill belts is easy to understand.
Diagnosing A Burning Smell
If you detect a burning smell while using your treadmill, immediately disconnect it and disassemble it. A burning smell indicates that something is caught in the belt, or that the belt has moved off of its intended course. Remove any debris from the belt and center it in its track. If the smell persists, there's probably an issue with the motor. Unfortunately, fixing the motor yourself isn't an option unless you have some electronics skills. It is possible, however to purchase a replacement motor from the manufacturer and install it yourself. If the treadmill is still under warranty, take advantage of it and ask for a free replacement.
Cleaning The Internals
While you have the treadmill's hood removed, use the opportunity to give the internals a thorough cleaning. Chances are good that a lot of dust and grime have accumulated inside of the treadmill, and this can lead random adjustments in the speed of the track, potentially causing an injury.
Blow away any pieces of dust that you find with compressed air and follow up with a damp rag and some detergent soap to scrub the speed sensors. This also is a good time to lubricate the pulleys and any moving parts inside of the treadmill. Purchase lubricant specifically formulated for treadmills at a fitness supply store. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for lubrication, and be sure not to spill any lubricant into the internals.
Do You Need a License to Be a Handyman in Florida?
In the field of construction, a handyman fills the gap between specific tradesmen, such as plumbers and electricians, and large project contractors. A handyman typically works directly for homeowners, providing a variety of building or repair tasks. While Florida does not require a license to work as a handyman, some tasks may require a specific license in order to obtain the proper permit and inspection in accordance with state or local regulations.
Electrical
A handyman is often hired for small electrical jobs such as installing a new ceiling fan, light switch dimmer control, flood light or repairing broken outlets or switches. While most of these small tasks do not require an electrical license, a license and permit may be required for more involved jobs. For example, if installing a ceiling fan requires new wiring to the electrical panel, an electrical permit will have to be obtained by a licensed electrician. An unlicensed handyman may be able to complete this work by hiring a licensed electrician to obtain the permit, inspect the work and sign off on the permit for an inspection.
Plumbing
Plumbing work for a handyman usually involves tasks such as installing a new faucet, repairing a leaky toilet or clearing a clogged pipe. Since these types of tasks do not require the installation of new plumbing or the repair of major plumbing facilities, no license is required. As is the case with electrical work, the installation or repair of plumbing infrastructure within a home requires applicable permits and inspections. Additionally, repairing some sections of heating and air conditioning units may require a plumbing permit.
New Construction
While room additions or large construction projects typically require a licensed contractor, a handyman may be hired for subsequent construction by a homeowner. For example, adding a divider wall, building out a basement or attic, installing a window or cutting in a new door are tasks that could be easily completed by a handyman. Again, although no specific license is require to complete these types of projects, state or local building codes may dictate that some portions be competed or monitored by a licensed tradesman.
Repairs
Minor home repairs, such as repairing a door, replacing broken floor tiles or repainting, are the mainstay of the handyman trade and do not typically require a license or permit.
Let a faucet drip to help prevent frozen plumbing.
Plumbing for a mobile home must be protected against freezing temperatures. It's wise to invest in the cost of durable piping materials and to insulate any portions of water pipes that have to be above ground. When freezing weather occurs, provide a safe heat source in areas where pipes must be exposed, and let water drip at a faucet indoors to help prevent freezing of pipes. If a frozen pipe emergency occurs despite such precautions, act quickly to prevent damage, avoid the need to call for a plumber, and restore your family's water supply. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Turn all faucets on. Water flow, even if it's a trickle, could aid in thawing the frozen pipe and help prevent more pipes from freezing. Turning the taps on will help to relieve pressure in pipes and help prevent frozen pipes from bursting if they aren't already broken. You also can pinpoint which pipes are frozen by seeing which faucets still run.
2. Locate the frozen pipe. If the home is occupied and has heat, the frozen portion of the pipe is somewhere outside, possibly under the mobile home. If there's only one place where pipe is exposed to cold, that's where the pipe is frozen. If you have a water well and you forgot to provide warmth in the well house, the problem could be out there and at the mobile home. Feel all of the pipes inside and outside the mobile home. If one pipe feels much colder than the others, that's the frozen one.
3. Apply electric heat tape to the frozen pipes if you have it or can get it quickly. According to the My Great Home website, heat tape reduces the possibility of damage to the pipe by allowing it to thaw slowly.
4. Warm the frozen pipe with an electric hairdryer. It's OK to do this even if you have already applied heat tape. It will speed up the thawing process a bit, but is not apt to damage the pipes. Keep the device and its extension cord away from moisture. Move the hairdryer constantly to apply warm air to the entire frozen section of pipe.
Tags: frozen pipe, help prevent, mobile home, heat tape, frozen pipes, help prevent frozen, pipes from
Many exhaust systems are pieced together by clamp or flange connections.
All vehicles have at least one pipe with a flange connection. The front pipe or header pipe bolted to the manifold uses a flange of some type. Many modern vehicles now connect other components, such as catalytic converters, downstream exhaust pipes and even mufflers, with flange connections. With the car on a lift and a mechanic that knows what he is doing, the repair could take a mere few minutes. With a home repair mechanic laying on his back with limited tools, the repair could become complicated.
Instructions
1. Inspect the pipe with the leaking flange gasket carefully before attempting to disconnect it. Front-pipe-to-manifold flanges often require the rear flange to the converter or pipe be separated in order to access the leaking gasket. Sometimes unhooking an exhaust hanger somewhere down the exhaust stream might allow enough flexibility to forgo the rear flange disconnection.
2. Determine how the flange is connected. All front-pipe-to-manifold flanges are secured by nuts to the studs of the manifold. Downstream flange connections may use studs on one side and nuts on the other or simple nuts and bolts. Downstream studs can be distinguished by round heads which, unlike a hex bolt head, cannot be held with a wrench. Studs have grooved notches in their shafts and do not require a box-end wrench for removing the nut. Nut and bolt connections will require the bolt of the head be held stationary (with the wrench) while a ratchet and socket loosen the nut (or another wrench).
3. Disconnect the flange hardware. If necessary, heat the nuts of the connection with an oxyacetylene torch. Using a portable propane torch may not heat the nut up enough or could take a considerable amount of time. Heat just the edges of the nut and not the bolt. This will expand the nut. Once the nut is cherry red, turn off the torch and remove the nut. For front pipes, a ratchet, long extension and socket are most likely required.
4. Repeat for each nut and stud/bolt connection of the flange until all retaining hardware is removed. The studs will remain intact on their respective exhaust components.
5. Separate the flange connection. This is where the exhaust pipe hanger tool may come in handy. Releasing one or more exhaust hangers near the flange connection may give the exhaust system enough flexibility to access the mating surfaces of each mating flange. As mentioned earlier, it may also require separating the other connection of the exhaust component with the compromised flange gasket.
6. Clean each flange connection's mating surface with emery cloth or medium-grit sandpaper, after allowing the exhaust system to cool down, if a torch was used.
7. Apply a level amount of high-temp Perma-Tex (O2 sensor-safe) compound on both sides of the gasket. Place the gasket between the flanges. On most flange connections, there's a small piece of pipe protruding on the inside of the flange to place the gasket on, depending on the type of application. Some front pipe gaskets are called "donut" gaskets and fit into a ball-flared exhaust pipe.
8. Reconnect the flange connection, after replacing the system on hangers, if applicable, with new hardware (nuts, bolts, washers and lock washers).
9. Start the vehicle and check the flange connection for leaks. If necessary, re-tighten the hardware.
Cincinnati's fertile Ohio Valley soil is rich in nutrients deposited by the river's waters.
Cincinnati is located on the Ohio River in the southwestern portion of Ohio in Hamilton County. With the fertile, loamy soil provided by the river, Cincinnati is an excellent place for three-season gardening. Does this Spark an idea?
Growing Zone
Cincinnati, like most of southern Ohio, is considered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to be in Plant Hardiness Zone 6, sometimes sub-categorized as 6a.
Spring Planting Times
Like most of Ohio, Cincinnati is still prone to frost up until mid-May on some nights. Cold season annuals such as snapdragon, viola, johnny-jump-ups and pansy as well as cool-climate veggies such as lettuce, greens, beets, carrots, broccoli and peas can be planted in early to mid-May. Other annuals and warm-weather veggies such as tomatoes, peppers, melons, corn and beans need to be planted toward the end of May to avoid frost.
Final Frost
Cincinnati's growing season will end in late October when frost begins to form in the evenings. Most warm-season plants will begin to fade a few weeks earlier, but a second round of cool season veggies and annuals can be added to the fall garden to bloom until late fall when hard frost hits.
Frozen pipes can cause serious problems for homeowners. Because water expands when it freezes, it can cause a pipe to rupture. You will be unable to detect any possible leaks until the pipe is thawed, as ice does not leak. When the ice melts, you'll have a mess on your hands. While thawing a frozen pipe is a fairly simple task, understand some basic safety rules. Never use a blowtorch, a propane heater or any other device with an open flame. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Turn the faucet that is connected to the frozen pipe to the "on" position. This will allow melted water and steam to escape the pipe.
2. Wrap heat tape around the frozen pipe. This is the slowest method of thawing a frozen pipe; however, because it works gradually, it will reduce possible damage to the pipe. According to My Great Home, you should use only heat tape that is certified for mobile homes.
3. Use a few layers of towels wrapped around the pipe if you do not have heat tape. Pour hot water over the towels. You may need to repeat this multiple times to completely thaw the pipe.
4. Aim a hair dryer at the frozen pipe. Slowly apply heat down the length of pipe until it is thawed.
The Tower of London is where Queen Anne Boleyn lost her life in 1536.
Door 2 Tour offers a variety of coach tours and day trips from many cities, including London. It not only offers public tours, but private group tours as well. Some of its coach day trips include multiple stops where you'll be able to leave the coach transportation and visit various attractions. There are also coach day trips that will pick you up and drop you off at the same point, and then you'll be led on a guided walking tour by an expert tour operator.
Jack the Ripper
This luxury coach tour takes place in the evening and will pick you up and drop you off in one of London's infamous areas of Whitechapel. You'll be led on a guided tour of locations where Jack the Ripper's victims were found as well as some of the claimed haunted locales. You'll also visit a traditional London pub that Jack the Ripper victims were known to frequent. Other locations seen on this tour are the Old Bailey where numerous hangings took place and Fleet Street, home to the demon barber Sweeney Todd.
The tour guide will give a vast history of the area, the Jack the Ripper victims and investigations, and also tales of ghostly encounters many have experienced. Door 2 Tour guides don't feel this tour is appropriate for children under the age of 12. The pickup point is at Strand Palace Hotel, 17-19 Cockspur St. in Trafalgar Square.
The Big Bus London Tour
The Big Bus London Tour will take visitors around the city of London, as well as on a cruise of the Thames River. For this particular tour, you will be picked up just outside of the Green Park underground station, and you will be getting on and off the transportation coach frequently throughout the day. The ticket you purchase for this tour is valid for 24 hours, so you will have an entire day to take in all of the sights available to you.
There will be two coaches of transportation running every 15 to 30 minutes for this tour. The red bus gives live guide commentary and the city's history while you take in various London sights. The blue bus is a more extensive route that features commentary in eight languages, as well as seeing all of the top London attractions including Kensington and Hyde Park. Once you book tickets for this tour, there are no refunds from Door 2 Tour.
Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Oxford
Enjoy this full-day tour visiting England's Windsor Castle, the ancient site of Stonehenge and the university town of Oxford. At Windsor Castle, you'll receive a guided tour of various public parts of the castle, the state apartments and St. George's Chapel, where King Henry VIII and his third wife, Jane Seymour, were laid to rest. Then it will be on to Stonehenge to view the towering rock formations estimated to have been created around 2500 BC and possibly linked to both King Arthur and Merlin. Your last stop on the tour will be in Oxford, a university town in England that dates back to the 13th century, and you will receive a guided walking tour here.
The pickup location for this coach tour is Victoria Coach Station at 164 Buckingham Palace Road.
Tags: this tour, Jack Ripper, Door Tour, Jack Ripper victims, Ripper victims
Unusually large or old trees in Michigan are considered historical.
The Michigan Forest Association has several criteria for classifying trees in the state as famous and historical. The criteria include trees associated with famous artists, scientists or other notable people; trees that relate to the development of the U.S.; trees affiliated with prominent teachers or schools; trees associated with religion or religious buildings; trees associated with forest conservation; trees with unusual characteristics; and old or unusually large trees. Several trees in Michigan fall into one or more of these categories. Does this Spark an idea?
Curwood
James Oliver Curwood was a writer born in Owosso, Michigan, in 1878. Curwood was an avid outdoorsman, and did a lot of writing surrounded by nature. He wrote often under a tree in Harmon-Partridge Park in Owosso. The tree still stands today, according to the Absolute Michigan website and is considered a historical tree due to its ties to the author, who was a prolific author and conservationalist who died in 1927 when blood poisoning set in after spider bite.
Dr. Dorsch's Ginkgo Tree
Eduard Dorsch was a German physician who moved to Monroe, Michigan, in 1848. During the Civil War, he studied the effects of rifle bullets in the body, and was a well-respected physician. In the 1860s, the American ambassador to China gave him a ginkgo tree seedling which he planted in his front yard. The tree still stands (as of October 2010), according to the Absolute Michigan website and is considered a historical tree due to its age and the significance of the man who planted the tree, Dr. Dorsch.
Republican Oaks
A grove of oak trees on the outskirts of Jackson, Michigan, is historical as it marked the birthplace of the Republican party in 1854. A convention was held nearby to discuss the end of slavery but the crowd was too large to fit into the convention hall, so they met "under the oaks" and elected a group of new state official candidates under the new party, which became the Republican party. The oak grove in Jackson exists today and is historical since it is the party's birthplace.
Tags: associated with, considered historical, trees associated, trees associated with, Absolute Michigan, Absolute Michigan website
Use a Repair Installation to return your computer to working order.
The easiest and most effective way of repairing a software problem is to wipe out the hard drive and install the operating system from scratch. The obvious problem with this is that everything is deleted, both the good and the bad. Fortunately, Windows XP provides an alternative in the form of a "Repair Installation," which can be accessed from the Windows Setup program included on every Windows XP disc.
Instructions
1. Insert your Windows CD and restart your computer. When given the prompt to press any key to boot from CD, do so.
2. Wait for the Windows Setup program to load. At the "Welcome to Setup" screen, press "Enter" to start the installation.
3. Press "F8" to accept the Terms and Conditions. On the next screen, highlight the Windows installation you wish to repair and press "R."
4. Allow the program to install the necessary files, after which it will automatically restart. If given the prompt to boot from CD as in Step One, ignore it; instead, allow Windows to load.
5. Enter your language and regional settings if they are different from the default, then follow the onscreen instructions to complete the installation.
Tags: boot from, given prompt, Repair Installation, Setup program, Windows Setup, Windows Setup program
Mix together durable concrete using the trusted 1:2:3 ratio
While concrete is durable and strong, it can succumb to weather and use, becoming pitted and cracked. To restore the appeal of the sidewalk and eliminate the danger of the uneven material, you can easily mix together concrete in the proper ratio for an easy sidewalk repair. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Measure one shovelful of Portland cement, two shovelfuls of sand and three shovelfuls of gravel.
2. Pour the three materials into the wheelbarrow.
3. Stir the materials in the wheelbarrow together to incorporate for a uniform texture.
4. Add a small amount of tapwater to the material and incorporate it using the shovel. Continue adding small amounts of water and mixing with the shovel until the texture of the concrete is like that of peanut butter. It should not be runny.
5. Thoroughly stir the concrete until the consistency is uniform. This concrete mix can now be used to repair your sidewalk.
Replace your old mobile home light switches for safer electrical connections.
Choose safety when replacing a self-contained mobile home light switch with a single-pole switch and an "old work" box, and save money too, according to Morgan Services, a mobile home repair service. Wires attached to screws in a single-pole switch are more secure than in a self-contained mobilehome switch. And installing a single-pole switch and electrical box can be much cheaper than replacing a self-contained mobile home switch. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Turn off the electricity at the panel by flipping the main breaker to "Off."
2. Remove the self-contained mobile home switch from the wall. Mobile homes are made with self-contained switches that combine the electrical switch box and switch into one unit. Use a screwdriver and turn the screw at the top and the bottom of the switch to the left, releasing the self-contained switch by loosening the wings that hold it inside the wall.
3. Disconnect the wiring from the self-contained switch. Access the wiring inside a self-contained switch by removing the snap-on back cover. Locate the two white wires (neutral) connected by a wire nut. Remove the wire nut by twisting it counterclockwise and pull the white wires apart. Locate the connected ground wires (bare copper) and disconnect them. A self-contained mobile home switch contains a series of copper wedges and connectors where the black (hot) wires connect to provide electrical power to the switch. Pull these black wires from the copper wedges and connectors to release the self-contained mobile home switch from the wall. You now have an empty hole in your wall with two sets of three exposed wires--black, white and bare copper.
4. Trim and strip the black wires you removed from the old switch. Use wire cutter/strippers and strip ½ inch of insulation off the ends of the two black wires.
5. Install a shallow "old work box" for the new switch. Pull the wires you removed from the old mobile home switch through the knock-out holes at the top and bottom of the old work box and place the box in the wall, following the manufacturer's directions. Should your old work box be too large for the existing hole in your wall, lay the template provide with your old work box over the existing hole and trace around the template. Use a keyhole saw to cut along the trace lines, enlarging the original hole.
6. Connect the pairs of white and bare copper wires inside the old work box. Twist a wire nut onto the two white wires to connect them, and connect the bare copper wires the same way. Push these two sets of wires to the back of the old work box.
7. Wire the new single-pole light switch into the old work box. A single-pole light switch interrupts the flow of electricity to the fixture it operates. Wrap the black power supply wire around the bottom screw on the right side of the single-pole light switch and tighten the screw. Wrap the black wire that connects to the light fixture around the screw at the top right of the new switch and tighten that screw. The power supply wire will be the black wire that connects directly back to the breaker panel.
8. Attach the new light switch to the shallow old work box. The switch will attach at the bottom and the top of the box with screws that came with the switch.
9. Cover the switch and the wiring with a switch cover plate. It will attach with two screws that came with the cover plate above and below the exposed toggle.
10. Turn on the electricity at the main panel by flipping the main breaker to "On."
Tags: mobile home, home switch, mobile home switch, self-contained mobile, self-contained mobile home, bare copper, black wires
Dings happen--and fasteners pop. Maybe that contractor you hired didn't do such a great job of applying the drywall (he didn't press it firmly against the wall when installing the fasteners), or maybe he used cut-rate framing lumber. Never fear. You can repair gouges and popped nails or screws inexpensively yourself. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
Filling tiny holes
1. Apply a dab of caulk with your fingertip or apply premixed interior spackling compound, available in very small cans, with a putty knife. Fill the hole but don't leave any residue on the surrounding surface.
2. If the compound shrinks as it dries, leaving a dimple, apply another coat. When the compound is dry, touch up the paint.
Repairing a small hole or gouge
3. Place an appropriate quantity of premixed joint compound, available in 1- and 5-gallon (4-l and 19-l) sizes, into a metal bread pan or onto a hawk (see Warning).
4. Pick up a small quantity of compound on the corner of a spackle knife and spread it over the damaged area. Hold the knife on the wall at a low angle and draw it across the compound horizontally; then wipe the knife clean on the edge of the pan and make a second pass vertically.
5. When the first coat dries (it will turn from gray to bright white), apply a second coat, but use more compound and extend it a little beyond the first coat. In the rare case when two coats are not enough, apply a third coat.
6. When the patch is dry, sand lightly and apply primer over the repaired surface before applying a paint topcoat.
Repairing popped fasteners
7. Press firmly against the surface as you drive in one drywall screw on each side of the popped fastener (just above and below it on a wall, or in line with the ceiling joist) with a screwdriver or an electric drill and driver.
8. Drive in the popped fastener tight to the drywall with a hammer or screwdriver. Remove any loose drywall but try not to tear off the paper facing. Apply joint compound and smooth it over as described in "Repairing a small hole or gouge".
Repairing larger damaged areas
9. Apply joint tape wherever the paper facing is badly damaged or missing. To embed paper tape, cover the damaged area with a thin layer of joint compound, press the paper into the compound and smooth it by drawing a clean spackle knife across it with firm pressure. If you're using adhesive-backed fiberglass tape, just press it onto the drywall.
10. When the first coat is dry, scrape off any dry bits on the surface and apply a second and third coat (see A) as described in "Repairing a small hole or gouge".
Patching a large hole
11. Cut a drywall patch. Place it over the damaged area to trace it. Cut along your lines with a drywall saw (see B) or by making repeated passes with a utility knife. Remove the damaged pieces and clean up the cut with a utility knife.
12. Install drywall clips near the four corners of the opening. Slip them over the drywall (narrow spring tabs out) and secure them with 1 1/4-inch (3-cm) Type W drywall screws (see C). Position and screw the patch to the clips (see D).
13. Grasp the clip tabs with long-nose pliers and twist to break them off below the surface. Tape and finish the seams as described in "Repairing larger damaged areas," above.
Tags: damaged area, described Repairing, first coat, hole gouge, joint compound
Iron railings are a classic way to provide safety for porch steps and edges. Keeping up with the maintenance on them is the best way to prolong the life of your railings. Once joints begin to move it is a downhill slide to the point of "beyond repair". Making repairs as soon as you notice them will save time and money in the long run. A few simple tools and some common sense are all that you need to keep your railings in good order. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
Tighten the Railing Hardware
1. Tighten the hardware on the rail brackets. The top railing is typically held to the post with small screws or bolts. Use pliers and a wrench or screwdriver to snug up the hardware. Start at either end of the railing. The ends provide most of the strength for the railing and tightening them frequently solves the whole problem.
2. Replace any bolts or screws with stripped threads or damaged heads. Take the old hardware with you to easily identify the correct replacement hardware.
3. Repair damaged brackets with JB weld or similar metal epoxy. Remove the part, if possible, before making the repair. Mix the parts of the epoxy according to manufacturer's instructions. Clean the parts of loose rust, paint and dust with a wire brush. Apply epoxy to both pieces, allow the recommended time before attaching the parts to each other. Give the epoxy adequate time to harden before reattaching.
4. Replace broken parts. Most common railings are commercially produced and replacement parts may be available for special order from your local lumber yard. Take the broken part with you for easy identification.
Tighten Floor Brackets
5. Tighten concrete anchors mounting the post brackets to the floor. Use a screwdriver or wrench to tighten loosened concrete anchors. Tighten by hand to avoid stripping.
6. Replace severely stripped anchors with 1/4-inch tapcon style concrete screws. Purchase screws a little longer than the originals, to make sure they bite into the concrete.
7. Use a masonry bit to drill the hole to the appropriate depth 1/4-inch deeper than the length of the screw. Use a 3/16-inch masonry bit. Wrap a piece of masking tape around the bit to mark the needed depth (the length of the screw plus 1/4-inch from the tip of the bit.
8. Drive the screw snugly into the hole. Use the manufacturer's recommended screw bit and make sure not to overtighten.
Tighten Floor Brackets on Wood Floor
9. Tighten screws in wood porch floors with a screwdriver, rather than a drill, to avoid stripping the screw hole further.
10. Break a match stick or small wood dowel off in holes that are severely wallowed out before replacing and tightening the screws. This can help to provide extra tension in the hole and allow the screw to tighten down fully.
11. Use a slightly longer or thicker screw to replace those in severely wallowed holes. If the railing does not tighten after replacing the screws, you may have to remove and replace the damaged floor board to give the railing proper support.
Driveways with slopes leading away from the home may be less leak prone.
A flat driveway or one sloping down toward a garage may be a problem during heavy rain. Water runs off the driveway and pools at the garage door. If the garage door is not closed tightly, and if it does not sit flat against the ground, some water makes its way into the garage. Some homeowners find repairing their driveway is the solution to this common problem. Does this Spark an idea?
Repair at Garage Door Seal
Cracks and missing concrete at the point where the garage door comes in contact with the driveway creates gaps into which rain water leaks. Repairing this area can greatly decrease the likelihood of leak problems. Lie on the garage floor on a sunny day and look for any cracks with light coming from the base of the door. Fill in any gaps or cracks along the base of the door with concrete or crack filler, and allow the mix to cure before closing the door.
Driveway Slope Left to Right
Having a driveway repaved so its center is slightly higher than its left and right edges can guide rain water to run off into the lawn on either side of the pavement. Ask the driveway contractors to create a "spine" or ridge running down the center of the driveway to whisk water away from the garage.
Car Tire Grooves
Over time, especially with asphalt, driveways develop grooves where car tires sit. This creates a pair of channels in the driveway that can act as a conduit for water. Repaving the driveway is the only way to solve this problem, and may go a long way toward remedying the garage leak.
Channel Drain Grate
One option to explore for remedying drainage issue is the installation of a drainage grate beneath the garage door threshold. Drainage grates are metal grates over channels that allow water to pass through and safely drain away from the garage. This involves breaking up the pavement of your driveway just in front of the garage door, so less-invasive remedies should be attempted prior to this method.
Driveway Slope Change
If your driveway is flat or has only a slight slope toward your garage, you may be able to have your driveway broken up and repaved with a slope more appropriate for draining water away from the garage. This may be a costly solution, so other remedies should be attempted before resorting to a complete resurfacing.
Tags: away from, away from garage, from garage, garage door, your driveway
San Francisco offers a variety of Christmas activities suitable for the whole family.
San Francisco offers both adults and children a wealth of family fun at Christmastime. The City by the Bay boasts mild weather, even during the early winter season, making it ideal for enjoying outdoor activities such as tree-lighting ceremonies. In between Christmas activities, you'll find plenty of sightseeing and walking adventures to enjoy during a holiday visit to San Francisco. Does this Spark an idea?
Nutcracker Ballet
Every December, the San Francisco Ballet carries out its long tradition of performing the "Nutcracker." The ballet features more than 200 enchanting costumed characters dancing to the music of Tchaikovsky, performed by the San Francisco Ballet Orchestra. The ballet company offers six family performances that include activities and entertainment in the lobby before the ballet starts. Costumed characters greet you and your family, plus the first 500 children at the event receive a special gift. During the intermission, enjoy juice and cookies on the house. Booster seats are available for small children who are seated in the Orchestra Level.
Nutcracker Ballet
War Memorial Opera House
301 Van Ness Ave.
San Francisco, CA 94102
415-865-2000
sfballet.org
Ghirardelli Square Tree Lighting
Ghirardelli Square kicks off the Christmas holiday season each year with its Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. During the lighting ceremony, a 50-foot tree lights up with red ribbons, ornaments and decorations. Oversized Ghirardelli chocolate bars are usually nestled into the branches of the tree. Before the ceremony, enjoy musical performances, puppet shows and stilt walkers. After the ceremony, listen to Christmas carolers and visit with Old Saint Nick. Warm up on hot chocolate at the Ghirardelli Caf . The festivities start at noon on the Friday after Thanksgiving.
Ghirardelli Square
900 North Point St.
San Francisco, CA 94109
415-775-5500
ghirardellisq.com
Great Dickens Christmas Fair
Dress up your family as characters from Charles Dickens' novels, then head to the Great Dickens Christmas Fair. Held on Saturdays and Sundays during December, the annual event takes place at the Cow Palace Exhibition Hall. Mingle with entertainers dressed as characters from "A Christmas Carol" and "A Tale of Two Cities." Enjoy Victorian Christmas displays, a music hall, dance parties, shops, stalls, street vendors and an assortment of Christmas goodies, holiday spirits and drink.
Great Dickens Christmas Fair
Cow Palace Exhibition Hall
2600 Geneva Ave.
San Francisco, CA 94134
415-392-4400
sanfrancisco.com
Tags: Christmas Fair, Dickens Christmas, Dickens Christmas Fair, Ghirardelli Square, Great Dickens, Great Dickens Christmas, characters from
Faucet and other plumbing repairs do not have to be itimidating.
To those who have little or no experience with plumbing repairs, those repairs can seem intimidating. However, there are some basic repairs that just about anyone can accomplish if the right tools and procedure are used. The main issue with most plumbing repairs involves leaks, either from the faucet or the plumbing under the sink. Professional plumbers can be expensive. You can save that money by attempting to fix basic plumbing problems yourself. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
Faucets
1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet by using the water stops under the sink or the main water shut off for the entire house.
2. Pry off the button caps on two handle faucets or unscrew the Alan screw at the base of a single handle faucet to remove the handle or handles. On two handle faucets use a screwdriver to remove the screw under the button cap to remove the handles. If replacing the handles, screw on the new handles.
3. Use an adjustable wrench to remove the retaining nut that secures the cartridge or valve stem. Many times a leaky faucet can be traced to a worn out cartridge or valve stem or a bad washer. Remove the washer and cartridge or valve stem and replace with new parts and reassemble the faucet. Turn on the water supply.
Drain
4. Locate and familiarize yourself with the drain pipes under the sink. Standard sink drains have a straight pipe attached directly under the sink drain. A curved pipe, called a p-trap is attached to the straight pipe. Another straight pipe is attached to other end of the p-trap that goes into the wall or floor.
5. Use a pair of slip joint pliers to tighten the large nuts that connect the different drain pipes together. If you are experiencing leaks under the sink, one of the most common causes is loose drain pipes. If items are stored under the sink the pipes can become loose from being bumped accessing those items.
6. Replace drain pipes that are cracked or leaking from any place other than where they connect to other pipes. Replacement pipes can be purchased at a hardware or home improvement store for a few dollars. They can be replaced by inserting them in place and securing the nuts which fasten them to the remaining plumbing.
Water Supply Hoses
7. Locate the water shut off valves under the sink. There should be one for the hot and one for the cold. They are attached to the faucet stems with water supply hoses.
8. Inspect the water supply hoses for leaks. If there is water seeping from the connections, use an adjustable wrench to tighten the nuts at both ends of the water supply hoses. If the main body of either hose is cracked or leaking it must be replaced.
9. Shut off the water supply by turning the shut off valves all the way to the right.
10. Use an adjustable wrench to unscrew the leaking water supply hose.
11. Install the new water supply hose by attaching it to the faucet stem and to the shut off valve. Use an adjustable wrench to tighten the nuts but ensure that you do not over tighten them.
Tags: under sink, water supply, adjustable wrench, drain pipes, cartridge valve, cartridge valve stem, plumbing repairs
Plumbing a mobile home is different than conventional homes.
Mobile home plumbing is very different from conventional home plumbing. First, different piping is used. Secondly, there are many different techniques employed in a mobile home plumbing system due to different space requirements and code restrictions. Some plumbers will not commit to work on mobile homes, so if you need a new installation in your home, one option is to do it yourself. Does this Spark an idea?
Plumbing Fixtures in Mobile Homes
Before working on plumbing in a mobile home it is important to know what you are getting into. The types of plumbing fixtures used in mobile homes may differ from conventional homes. So, parts are sometimes hard to find. For instance, plastic pipes are now used in mobile homes. This includes PEX and CPVC pipes. These pipes are easier to work with because they are cut with a hack saw and use plastic fittings instead of hot soldered connections. This type of pipe may be available at a home improvement store in your area. If not, a mobile home repair contractor will point you in the right direction.
Where to Begin
The second thing to know about your home is where the shut off valve is. The first step in any DIY plumbing project is to turn off the water supply. Most shut off valves are located in the home, near the main water pipe. There are two in most mobile homes. The main one brings water directly into your home and is located somewhere in the floor. Check for the other one near the water heater. Once the main line is shut off, no water will flow through the pipes and the plumbing is safe to work on.
Replacing Water Pipes
Much of the DIY plumbing in a mobile home involves replacing water pipes. Damaged pipes cause leaks that can lead to water damage. The plastic pipes are replaced by removing the damaged section and reinstalling a fresh section. Cut the pipe using a pipe saw and then install a new joint. Apply pipe cement or sealant to the joint and the pipe, then insert the pipe into the joint. Most pipes are located under the floor of a mobile home. When replacing any length of pipe, inspect the entire pipe for damage. In some cases, it may be wise to replace the entire pipe.
Joints and Fixtures
The fixtures in a home connect directly to plastic pipes in most cases. The vertical pipes are connected to the floor water mains with a 90 degree elbow joint or a flexible, accordion style pipe. When replacing these pipes use matching joints and couplers and apply the proper cement to each. Check the cement label to ensure it is designed for the type of pipe you are using. The pipe grade is listed on the side of the pipe.
Tags: mobile home, mobile homes, home plumbing, plastic pipes, your home, conventional homes, entire pipe
When someone does you wrong and ends up costing you money, it's important that you get the matter resolved as quickly as possible. Small claims court exists specifically for this purpose and is an economical way to have your dispute heard before a judge without the necessity of having to hire an attorney or sit through a lengthy jury deliberation. Here's what you need to know.
Instructions
1. Assemble all of the evidence which establishes that the opposing party owes you money. This evidence will generally be in the form of written contracts and agreements, canceled checks and receipts, and photographs of damage done to your personal property. If there were witnesses to the dispute, you will also need to have notarized statements from them.
2. Determine how much money is at issue. There are limitations on the amount of money you can sue for in small claims court. Although the limits vary from state to state, there is generally a cap of $7,000 in any given year. (This amount can be higher or lower depending on the state.) If the outstanding payments or the amount of damage exceeds this cap, you'll need to take your case to a higher court.
3. Determine whether the statue of limitations has expired to file a claim. If, for instance, you wake up one day and realize that your brother-in-law borrowed money from you 15 years ago and still hasn't paid it back, you can't take him to small claims court to now collect it because too much time has passed. If, however, an event occurred 2 to 4 years ago (such as a broken contract, fraud, property damage or personal injury), you can file a case.
4. You can file your case at one of three venues: the court nearest to where the event occurred, the court nearest your home or business, or the court nearest the individual you are suing. Your phone book or the Internet can help you locate the courthouse you want to have your case heard in.
5. Fill out a Plaintiff's Claim and pay the appropriate fees to the court clerk to get your case put on the judge's docket of upcoming hearings. (You are the Plaintiff in the case; the person you are suing is called the Defendant.)
6. Provide the Defendant with a copy of your Plaintiff's Claim. Neither you nor anyone who is a witness or involved in your court case can do the process serving. To accomplish this, you will either need to hire a registered process server, pay a fee for someone from the sheriff's department to serve it for you, or have the court clerk serve it by certified mail. (If the recipient refuses to sign for a certified letter, however, it doesn't constitute delivery.) You will need to provide the court with a copy of the Proof of Service, a document which proves that the Defendant has received the material. If you have named multiple parties in your claim, each individual needs to be served separately.
7. Show up punctually for your hearing date. Depending on the judge's caseload, hearings for small claims court proceedings are scheduled 20 to 70 days after the paperwork has been filed. The duration of the hearing is usually about an hour but can vary in length depending on the number of parties and the complexity of the issue.
8. State your case when called and present your evidence to the judge. It's critical to establish that you have made every reasonable attempt to collect the money without having to take the matter to court. The opposing party will then have an opportunity to state his side of the story. After that, the judge will render a decision.
Several federal agencies provide grants and low-interest loans to help homeowners make their properties handicap accessible. Veterans can go on the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs website and download an application for a specially adapted housing grant and submit it to a regional VA loan center. Applicants for other programs can contact a U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development-approved housing counselor to find out what programs are available in their area. The counselor can also help you determine if you qualify for help.
Specially Adapted Housing Grant
The Department of Veterans Affairs provides grants to veterans who have service-related injuries through its Specially Adapted Housing Program. The veteran can qualify to obtain a grant up to $63,780 to make a home more accessible. To qualify for help, the veteran must have suffered the loss of either both arms or both legs, blindness in both eyes or severe burn injuries. The money can be used to construct a specially adapted home, purchase an existing home with adaptations, or adapt a home that is already owned.
Special Housing Adaptations Grant
The VA offers another grant up to $12,756 for veterans with service-related injuries. To qualify for help, the veteran must have suffered blindness in both eyes, loss of hand usage or severe burns that have caused permanent disability. The money can be used to adapt a home or purchase a home that will be adapted. Typical adaptations include special lighting, sliding doors, hand rails or security and intercom systems. Veterans with a hydrotherapy prescription or prescribed workout regimen can have a swimming pool installed on the property.
USDA Rural Repair Grant
The U.S. Department of Agriculture provides home repair grants to very low-income seniors over the age of 62. A grant of $7,500 is provided to homeowners who cannot afford to repay a loan. These repair grants can be used to correct health and safety concerns, or modernize the home which may include handicap accessibility. The property must be located in a USDA-designated rural area of the country. The homeowner's income cannot exceed 50 percent of the area's median income.
203K Loan Program
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development insures low-cost rehabilitation loans to make a home handicap accessible. The "Streamline (K)" Limited Repair Program, or 203K mortgage, can be used to refinance existing liens against a property and to rehabilitate the home. The home must need a minimum of $5,000 in repairs to qualify for a 203K loan. The repairs must be completed within six months of receiving the rehabilitation loan. Typical improvements that can be financed include widening doors for wheelchair access or installing a ramp.
Texans can access grant funding to replace or repair air conditioning systems.
Texas residents can apply for grant funding to replace inefficient air conditioning systems. State agencies, municipal governments and private organizations provide funding for low-income residents, seniors, schools and residents to improve their energy conservation and lower their utility costs. The amount of grant funding and application deadlines vary, depending on the funding provider.
State Grants
The Texas Department of Housing & Community Affairs Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program provides funding to low-income households for the repair, retrofit and replacement of heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems. The purpose of the grant is to help recipients lower energy costs, meet their energy needs and educate the public about energy efficient products. CEAP is funded via the federal governments Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program. As of the time of publication, applicants can apply for funding by contacting their local CEAP service provider, visiting the Help for Texans website (tdhca.state.tx.us/texans.htm), call 211 and ask for information on the program, or call (877) 399-8939.
Municipal Grants
The Air Conditioner Repair and Replacement Program sponsored by the city of Irving, Texas provides funding to residents with disabilities and senior citizens to replace or repair an inefficient air conditioner system. To apply, applicants must complete the program application form, and provide family income information and household demographics.
Grants for Schools
Schools in Texas located along the border with Mexico can apply for up to $50,000 in funding to replace air conditioning units with energy efficient models, via the Texas/Mexico Small Schools Grant Project. The project provides funding for schools to improve air quality, and enhance the quality of the classroom environment for students. To apply for funding, schools must contact the Texas State Energy Conservation Office and request grant information.
Private Grants
Reliant Energy in partnership with Dallas County Health and Human Services, offers the Home Weatherization Program for low-income residents. The $5,000 grant provides grant recipients with funds to make improvements in energy-efficiency, including servicing of air conditioning systems. As of the time of publication, Reliant Energy will provide 10 grants of $5,000.
Wood stoves are an economical way to supplement the heat in your home. However, installation of a wood-burning stove in a mobile home poses some unique challenges. While none of these challenges are insurmountable, failure to install a wood stove safely in a mobile home can lead to a fatal fire. Have your wood-burning stove installed by a knowledgeable professional. Does this Spark an idea?
Location
A wood burning stove will take up a large amount of space in any mobile home. Because space is usually at a premium in a mobile home, pay special attention to where your wood-burning stove will be placed.
Place your stove out of the flow of traffic. This will help prevent accidental contact with the stove that may result in burns. Your wood stove should be at least 36 inches from any combustible wall unless the wall is covered with a ventilated, noncombustible, approved wall protector. These wall protectors should be installed according to manufacturer's instructions. Make sure your wood stoves is installed no closer than 12 inches from walls protected by an approved wall protector.
Hearth
Use a noncombustible hearth above any combustible floor where your wood stove will be located. Your hearth will need to be larger than your stove, extending at least 16 inches in front of it and 10 inches on all other sides.
Ventilation
The wood-burning stove in your mobile home should be supplied with air for combustion from outside. This will involve an air inlet connecting the base of your stove to the exterior. The exterior opening of this vent should be above levels where it could be clogged by snow.
The chimney of your wood-burning stove should be made of a minimum of double-wall stove pipe. The MyGreatHome.com recommends triple-wall stove pipe as an additional safety measure. The stove pipe should be placed no closer than 9 inches from any unprotected wall in the interior of your mobile home.
The external chimney should extend at least 3 feet above your roof. It also should be at least 2 feet higher than any other obstructions close to it on the roof.
Operation
As a mobile home owners, you must also monitor the operation of your wood-burning stove. The walls should not reach a temperature that is too hot to touch. Be careful when removing ash and adding wood. A spark from your wood-burning stove landing on a combustible surface can easily start a fire.
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