Despite Texas' warm climate, most homes still need more insulation.
As of January 2012, new single family residential construction in Texas must meet International Residential Code (IRC) energy efficiency provisions. Owners of existing structures don't have to change their homes' insulation, but they could nonetheless save a lot of money and energy by retrofitting their homes to meet these regulations. Learning the insulation requirements for homes in Texas can help you make smart decisions about your home's heating and cooling efficiency. Does this Spark an idea?
Attics and Ceilings
Uninsulated attic spaces are responsible for significant heat loss, since heat rises in a building. Residents of southern and central Texas should insulate their attics to at least R-30, or about 9.5 inches of conventional fiberglass batt insulation. If you live in the Texas Panhandle, consider increasing your insulation level to at least R-38.
Basement Walls
Insulating basement walls can make finished basement spaces more comfortable and keep heat from leaching into the surrounding earth. The IRC and current Texas code require continuous basement insulation to at least R-10 or cavity insulation to a value of R-15. Basement spaces can be damp and prone to mold, so many homeowners prefer to install rigid foam insulation instead of fiberglass batting, which mildew when wet.
Floors and Walls
Insulation in floors and walls keeps heat inside a room and can allow homeowners to spend less energy heating unused spaces. Insulate wall cavities in Texas homes to R-13 to R-15. In southern Texas, insulate walls in gas- or oil-heated homes to R-13, and walls in homes with electric heat to a minimum of R-19. In central and northern Texas, insulate all floors to at least R-25.
Considerations
The IRC allows for less insulation in many areas than the stricter International Energy Conservation Code. Insulating homes to IECC standards provides more protection against heat loss and greater energy savings but is not required by Texas law in either new or existing construction. According to the North American Insulation Manufacturers Association, the IECC is the model building code for the United States, however. If you choose to retrofit your home's insulation, consider installing new material to this stricter standard for greater savings.
Tags: heat loss, homes R-13, Texas insulate, their homes, your home
Vapor barriers prevent the passage of water and moisture laden air from passing from one point to another. Vapor barriers under your mobile home can help prevent moisture damage to the wood and metal supports under your mobile home. There are several thoughts on moisture barrier installation. One suggests placing the moisture barrier directly on the ground. However, attaching a moisture barrier directly to the bottom of your mobile home and is common. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Unroll the vapor barrier material. Crawl under your mobile home by entering through the skirting. Staple the vapor barrier material to the wood floor joists of your mobile home with a staple gun. Pull the barrier tight to prevent air leaks. If your home has already been insulated and you can't see the floor joists, look for the places where the insulation has been stapled or nailed to the underside of the home. Staple or nail your vapor barrier nearby.
2. Cut the barrier when you get to the opposite side of your home. Begin running another barrier section along side the first section. Overlap the barriers by an inch or so.
3. Continue this until you have covered the underside of your home with vapor barrier.
4. Seal the overlapping edges with duct tape to prevent air passage.
5. Cover the staple holes with duct tape.
6. Seal the outside edges where the barrier meets the outside of the house with duct tape.
Tags: mobile home, your mobile, your mobile home, vapor barrier, duct tape, under your, under your mobile
Assist senior citizens by opening your own-in home elderly care service.
According to Florida State University's Pepper Institute on Aging and Public Policy, Florida's population of residents age 65 and older ranks fourth in the nation, with about 3 million. As the elderly population grows, the demand for health care services will become higher. Opening your own in-home elderly care service in Florida can help care for the elderly in need of medical assistance.
Instructions
1. Apply for the business licenses and registrations required to open an in-home elderly care service in Florida. Visit http://www.business.gov/ and enter the search term "business license." Click on "Business License and Permits." Enter your Florida for your state, select "Home Health Care" in the drop-down menu. Run the search, and click "Business Licenses" on the next page. This page will provide information on apply and register for a Florida business license.
2. Make sure your service location complies with zoning laws. A commercial building cannot be built in a residential neighborhood without first going through the zoning ordinances and regulations. These are laws that define how you can use your property in a particular location. Check to see if your property passes the state zone regulations by going to your local zoning office, city hall or a local planning board and asking for a copy of your local ordinance.
3. Hire employees for your service. In-home elderly care workers can be hired directly or through an agency. Home health care agencies generally have staff that include social workers and nurses, but hiring an independent home health care worker is generally more cost effective. Before hiring any workers, ask for their worker's licenses and certificates. Workers should also be carefully screened for proper training and qualifications involving elderly care.
4. Promote your in-home elderly care service. Advertise in Florida newspapers or magazines. Go to residential areas and distribute fliers. Volunteer in senior centers and talk to family members about your elderly care service. Create a professional website and use search engine optimization for Florida and elderly care service related terms. Join social media networks that relate to elderly care service and participate in conversations to attraction clients to your service.
Tags: elderly care, care service, elderly care service, care service, elderly care service
Home ownership is a dream for many senior citizens.
Safe, affordable housing is a necessity for people of all ages. Senior citizens who reside in the state of Wisconsin might benefit from a number of grant programs that are designed to offer access to home ownership for low-income seniors. These grants can be used to build a house in the Badger State or make necessary additions and improvements in order to make the home safer, more wheelchair accessible or energy efficient. Does this Spark an idea?
Wisconsin HUD Grants
The U.S. Department of Urban Development is a federally funded organization that provides grants to low-income applicants for the purposes of obtaining safe and adequate housing. These grants are distributed on individual state levels and may be used toward the down payment on a home, to make necessary housing repairs in order to make existing structures safer and better insulated or for the construction of additional rooms or ramps in order to make the home more wheelchair friendly. Wisconsin seniors who wish to apply for HUD-based grants can do so by applying directly through their local Wisconsin HUD office for approval.
WHEDA Foundation Grant
Low-income or frail elderly seniors might qualify for housing grants issued through The Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority. These grants are administered on an annual basis and may be used to help applicants who meet qualifying financial criteria to obtain down payment assistance toward the building of a home. Grants issued through WHEDA may also be used to make necessary additions and structural repairs on existing homes in cases where the home has become unsafe as a result of age or is in need of alterations to make the home more friendly to those who suffer physical handicaps. Interested applicants may apply directly through the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority.
VA Supported Housing
Disabled or homeless elderly veterans throughout the state of Wisconsin might qualify for grants that are designed to provide permanent housing for honorably discharged members of the U.S. military. These grants, issued through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, may be used to help homeless, disabled or economically disadvantaged veterans to obtain down payment assistance that can be used toward the purchase of a home. Grants may also be used to make structural repairs or for the building of additional ramps, rooms or lifts that will make the home more user-friendly for veterans who suffer from service-related injuries that have resulted in a disability.
Tags: make home, These grants, down payment, home more, issued through, make home more, make necessary
Whether your refrigerator is brand new or an older model, there's nothing worse than a dent right in the middle of the door. Refrigerators are especially prone to dents, since just opening the doors often leads to damage as they bump up against other appliances. Before you either spend a lot of money on a replacement door or resign yourself to living with the dent, try a dent removal secret that's used for cars. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Plug your hair dryer into an outlet and turn it on to its highest heat setting, holding it as close as possible to the dent without letting the dryer actually come into contact with the dent.
2. Heat the dent with the hair dryer for 60 seconds. Turn off the hair dryer.
3. Immediately put on heavy gloves and position your air duster upside down with the nozzle aimed directly at the dent.
4. Continuing to hold the air duster upside down, spray the entire dent and the area surrounding it with liquid carbon dioxide from the air duster.
5. Wait for the dent to pop out, and then wipe off any remaining liquid carbon dioxide with a clean cloth. Clean the area with a multi-purpose cleaner, or if you have a stainless steel refrigerator, use a stainless steel cleaning solution.
The log cabin is part of American history. As settlers moved west, they built houses of whatever logs they could find. Some lasted a century or more, but most decayed and disappeared. Today, log homes include heat and electricity and are built with logs treated to withstand the destructive forces of weather and insects. Treating a log home starts with the basic logs. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Start your log home treatment by properly drying the wood. If you buy a kit or logs from a dealer, this will be done for you. Next, treat logs against insects with a substance called borate. You can apply the substance commercially through a pressure process, but you can also dip the logs. Borate is colorless, odorless and will last forever once sealed. Also, borate will help protect logs against decay and rot.
2. Clean and preserve your logs. Once logs are delivered to a home site, they should be cleaned of all dirt, grime or anything that might interfere with adhesion of preservatives or finishes. For example, borate may leave a salty-appearing residue. Then add preservatives. The specific type will depend on the climate where the log home is located, but you can find preservatives designed especially for log homes. This will protect against moisture, which is important because it induces rot and attracts insects. Then add a biocide, if it is not included in the basic preservative, to prevent fungi, mold and mildew.
3. Finish log home treatment with sunblock and stain. Sunblock has a similar effect on log homes as for human skin--it protects against the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun. Some of these come with pigment to add color. Otherwise, apply a stain to get your desired log home color. Then add a final finish coat as further protection against sun and water. In most cases, preservatives and stains will need to be re-applied periodically.
4. Watch for termites. Termites are wood-eating insects that can seriously damage any wooden structure. But log homes are perhaps less susceptible than conventional houses. Termites can sneak into a conventional house and attack wooden framing and other elements and remain unseen for years. But in log homes owners can see them almost immediately and take remedial action. Termites travel through dirt, so maintain separation of wood and dirt with a concrete or similar foundation, capped with a metal "termite shield."
A leaky foundation wall is a common frustration in homes with basements, especially older homes. Foundations can leak for a number of reasons, but a homeowner with the proper tools can repair leaky foundations quickly and inexpensively. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
Repair Foundation Leaks
1. Inspect the drainage for your home. The contractor should have positioned downspouts and drainage to direct moisture away from the foundation. Look for any puddle areas close to the house after a rain. Focus on the areas where your foundation is leaking.
2. Fix the soil grade by altering the angle of the soil around the house. The soil should slope away from the foundation at a descending angle so water can drain away. Add the slope by applying a layer of sand or soil around any flat areas. Build up the soil or sand about 12 inches around the foundation wall using a shovel, and dig a slope to allow the water to flow away from the foundation at an angle. Use a rake to position the soil into the downward slope.
3. Use a 3-foot-wide section of landscaping plastic around the entire perimeter of the foundation once the grading is complete. Apply the plastic to the ground and cover it with up to four inches of soil or sand to hold it in place. Use a utility knife to cut holes in the plastic for shrubs or flowers. This adds an extra layer of water-proofing for the foundation area.
4. Add drain lines to downspouts to extend the water drainage. Choose a drain line, or pipe, that's approximately eight feet in length. Dig a small trench approximately 16 inches below the soil. Connect the pipe to the drain spout by inserting the spout into the pipe opening. Lay the pipe in the trench, and fill the area around it with sand or pebbles to cover it with a protective layer. Then fill the trench with the remaining soil.
5. Inspect the foundation wall for any cracks or block separations Fill any cracks using a concrete crack filler solution. Mix filler according to manufacturer's and apply to the cracked areas.
6. Purchase a foundation wall sealant designed to coat the foundation wall and prevent moisture and water from penetrating the surface. Apply sealant to dry foundation wall using a paint roller or rubber squeegee tool. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying time and application instructions.
Tags: foundation wall, away from, away from foundation, from foundation, cover with, foundation wall
The right trampoline can provide hours of backyard fun.
Trampolines can be an appealing addition to a backyard and a fun way of getting exercise for children and adults. But with so many brands and options on the market, choosing the right trampoline can seem like a daunting task. It is possible for most people to understand the components that make for a quality trampoline when following a few steps.
Instructions
1. Look for a trampoline that has the strongest frame possible. This is probably the most important factor to take into account when weighing your options, because a stronger frame means more longevity and less susceptibility to bending. Trampoline frames are measured by gauges ranging from 10 gauge to 16 gauge. Ten gauge frames are the thickest at 2.5 mm while 16 gauge are the thinnest at 1.2 mm. Therefore, it's best to choose a product with the lowest gauge and thickest metal. Lower quality brands will be thinner than their higher quality counterparts. Look for a galvanized frame because it helps prevent rusting.
2. Look for 96- by 8.5-inch springs for a 14-foot trampoline and 80- by 8.5-inch springs for a 12-foot trampoline. These are the ideal sizes for springs because they provide good bounce.
3. Find a product with pads covering the springs that are UV coated and between 1 to 1.5 inches thick. This ensures protection from the sun's rays and provides safety from the springs. Lower quality products will have thinner pads which can be dangerous.
4. Inspect the trampoline for cracks, rust or any bends in the frame. Never purchase a product with any of these problems.
5. Try to find standard trampolines which are 12 feet or 14 feet to make it easier to replace individual parts. Buy from a reputable supplier to ensure higher quality. Research the credentials of the manufacturer by looking online for reviews on forums and the manufacturer's website.
Cincinnati, Ohio has hundreds of thousands of residents; with such a large population, there are plenty of people to sell to. To have a successful garage sale, you want to attract the most amount of people possible. Placing signs near and on your street advertising your sale is one way. However, many people in Cincinnati may not drive down those particular streets or notice your ad. To advertise to those people, you can place print and online ads for your garage sale. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Buy space for a garage sale ad on Cincinnati.com. Cincinnati.com is owned by the same company that owns the Cincinnati Enquirer and the Community Press Recorder newspapers; ads placed on the website will also be featured in both newspapers. The classified sections of both newspapers and the website contain a section dedicated to local garage sales. You will have a limited number of words based on the size of the ad purchased. List the title "Garage Sale" with key items and the address of the sale. You can also place a photo with the ad.
2. Place a free garage sale ad on Craigslist. The Cincinnati section of Craigslist offers a list of local garage and moving sales under its "For Sale" category. Garage sales are listed by date. If you list the ad on Monday, the ad will display under that day and date. To get attention, enter a catchy title such as "Huge Moving Sale! Electronics, Tools and Xbox 360." In the body of your add enter some of the sale items, along with your address. You can even include pictures of items, your phone number and email address.
3. Post a garage sale ad on City Beat. This website offers a free classified section featuring items for sale or free in the Cincinnati area. The site doesn't have a page dedicated to garage sales, but they have a classified section that has web pages for electronics, clothing, furniture, household and other types of items. Select the option to post an ad, select the category of the most valuable or attractive items, select your city, and enter your add information. You can upload up to four images to display with your ad.
Tags: both newspapers, classified section, garage sale, garage sale, garage sales, local garage, with your
Owning a restaurant can be exciting and challenging. The fast paced environment and dynamic nature of the industry attracts many investors. The rigors of the daily life in a restaurant require dedication and commitment. Health codes for restaurants are very strict and in order to pass a health inspection you must be habitually prepared.
Instructions
1. Conduct weekly self assessments using a form similar to your state health inspector's form. Play the role of state health inspector. Enter the restaurant taking note of the outside appearance and proceed to inspect kitchen cleanliness, employee appearance and food temperatures.
2. Meet with employees after your self inspection. Discuss problem areas and what must be done to fix them. Talk about hand washing, proper food temperatures, preparation and food storage. Explain the consequences of basic health violations.
3. Educate employees about local health codes including proper handling of beef and beef blood, chicken and other food types. These three food categories should never cross paths during preparation or storage.
4. Consider using ServSafe, the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation's certification program to teach employees about proper food handling.
5. Walk with the health inspector during the actual inspection. Take notes and ask questions about what the inspector is doing. Fix a problem when it's simple and can be remedied immediately.
Tags: health inspector, employees about, food temperatures, proper food, state health
Massachusetts is home to a wide range of technical schools, from high schools to four-year colleges. Metropolitan areas such as Boston and Springfield offer more options, but the eastern and northern parts of the state provide opportunities for technical education as well. While national technical schools with local Massachusetts branches might offer many programs from which to choose, regional and local schools are more focused in their catalogs.
Western Massachusetts
Mildred Elley in Pittsfeld is part of a three-campus institution with headquarters in Albany, New York. At the Pittsfield campus Mildred Elley offers its approximately 160 students certificates in business management, cosmetology, criminal justice, massage therapy, medical assisting and paralegal studies. Students who complete two certificate programs in four semesters can transfer those credits to the Albany campus 40 miles away where they can complete an associate's degree in one of four areas by attending an additional semester. Mildred Elley offers scholarships and a career-counseling seminar. Four out of five of Mildred Elley graduates find employment in their field after graduation.
Northern Massachusetts
Franklin County Technical School is in Turners Falls, an historic village. For teens in grades 9 to 12, the school offers traditional academics plus programs in auto body repair, automotive technology, business technology, carpentry, cosmetology, culinary arts, electrical, health technology, information technology, landscaping and horticulture, machine technology, plumbing/heating and welding/metal fabrication. Like a non-vocational high school, Franklin County Tech offers extracurricular clubs and a range of sports for student participation. Students can apply for a dual enrollment program that gives them credit at Greenfield Community College and Holyoke Community College. Franklin Tech is a public school that grants admission to students from 19 surrounding towns plus those in other areas who pay admission.
Southern Massachusetts
The more populous area of Springfield offers more options for technical schools, including Branford Hall Career Institute and Porter and Chester. Branford Hall is a northeastern consortium of six campuses with a branch in Springfield that has two schools: the Healthcare Education Center grants certificates in massage therapy, professional medical assistant and health claims specialist, while the Technical Training Center offers certificate programs in culinary arts, HVAC, computer networking management and professional fitness trainer. Branford Hall's employment placement rate ranges from 65 percent for professional medical assistant to 100 percent for professional fitness trainer. Another regional school, Porter and Chester, has nine locations in Massachusetts and Connecticut, including the Chicopee branch near Springfield that has certificate programs in automotive technology, computer-aided drafting and design, computer and network technology, electrician, HVAC, administrative health specialist, dental assisting and medical assisting. The school offers lifetime employment placement assistance that begins at graduation and continues throughout the student's career.
Eastern Massachusetts -- Boston
As the state's largest city, Boston offers the most choices for technical schools, including technical high schools, community colleges, private technical schools and branches of national chains such as Kaplan, ITT and Lincoln Technical Institute. Wentworth Institute of Technology, founded in 1904, offers a small-school environment with 4,000 students -- 76 percent of whom receive financial aid -- pursuing bachelor's degrees in architecture, engineering, humanities or science. For those looking for two-year degrees, Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology offers nine associate's degree programs, plus four certificate programs and one bachelor's degree program, to its 550 students studying industrial and engineering technology. About 10 percent of Benjamin Franklin students live on campus, and 80 percent receive financial aid. Greater Boston is also home to Greater Lowell Technical High School, the nation's largest technical high school, which also offers adult education classes.
It is morning and you step into your bathroom, toss a piece of dirty tissue into the toilet and flush it down. The toilet starts to gurgle and the water floods your bathroom. You are upset. A clogged toilet is a unpleasant issue at anytime of the day. If your home uses a septic tank for waste management, a clogged toilet must be handled carefully since most commercial drain openers cannot be used with a septic tank. Does this Spark an idea?
Removing the Excess Water
To unclog a toilet connected to a septic tank, use a plunger first to release the water that is currently standing in the toilet. Plunge with the plunger several times until the water moves through the toilet. If the water does not move through, you will have to dip out the excess water. Make sure you wear gloves and use a pot and a bucket. You want to dip the water out of the toilet and then dump the water into a bucket. Do not dump the water down a bathtub or sink drain. After dipping out the water, plunge the toilet several times with the plunger to see if anything will come back up like a sock, rag or other object that may have fallen into the toilet.
Unclogging the Toilet
Once you have the removed excess water from the toilet, pour 2 cups of baking soda into the toilet, the bathroom sink and the bathtub drain. Do not flush the toilet yet. Next, pour boiling water (about 1/2 gallon) into the toilet. If your bathtub and sink's drain pipes are plastic, do not pour boiling water down them. Instead, run hot water from the faucet to rinse the baking soda down the sink and bathtub drains. Then pour 2 cups vinegar into the toilet, bathroom sink and bathtub drains.
You can now flush the toilet---if you notice the toilet getting ready to overflow, locate the water shutoff (normally on the back of the toilet at the bottom) and turn the water off. You have something blocking the drain below your toilet and a plumber will have to be called in if you are not equipped or cannot use a sewer snake or other tool to clear the clog.
Follow-up Care
If the toilet is flushing and draining, use the clogged toilet solution weekly to keep your house's drains open. The baking soda, water and vinegar mixture is completely safe for the septic system. Make sure when you pour the boiling water into your drains that you do not pour too much water. You never want to add too much water to your septic tank. Also, do not flush sanitary napkins, tampons, diapers and other non-biodegradable products down the toilet. These items will clog your septic system and result in drains and toilets overflowing.
makes optics for bird and wildlife viewing and field use. Highly calibrated optic lenses bring far-off views in close for observation. Inert gases fill the binocular's chambers to keep them fog-free. Many models use adjustable chambers and focus dials. Steiner requests that all binoculars with lens issues be sent back to the company where professional technicians recalibrate or grind the glass. Small repairs are acceptable to do at home.
Instructions
1. Check all screws on the optics. Many Steiner models have a dial screw between the two optic barrels. If loose, the barrels flop and don't hold when adjusted. Remove the screw and remove any grease or accumulated grime from the screw. Place the screw back on and tighten it using a flathead screwdriver.
2. Check all the Steiner eyepieces or rubber end caps for cracks. Dry rot causes cracks along rubber. If dry rot is present, use some clear glue to seal the cracks on the dry rot. Take care to not get glue on the lenses.
3. Check the diopter-setting ring along the eyepiece on the optics. This ring turns to bring the two barrels' views into stereo (aligned vision). Check that it rests flush with the base of the optic barrel. If it doesn't, push it down to the barrel chamber.
4. Pour lens cleaner on a chamois cloth and wipe off each lens of the Steiners. Use a dry spot on the cloth to dry the lenses after cleaning. After cleaning the lenses, blow away any dust with compressed air (the cans sold at computer stores to clean keyboards work beautifully).
Preserve the appearance of your car by removing ugly dents.
Paintless dent repair fixes damage to a car's exterior without altering its texture or color. This method avoids the steps of drilling, filling and retouching of traditional dent removal. Removing dents at home can be done with a can of compressed air and a hairdryer. Doing it yourself eliminates the prospect of costly repair work.
Instructions
1. Use detergent to thoroughly clean the dent and surrounding area. Wipe dry with a clean towel or cloth.
2. Prepare your work area. Make sure that you have an accessible power outlet and park your car near it. You may have to use an extension cord. Place your hair dryer nearby and plug it in. Have your can of compressed air nearby as well.
3. Turn on the hair dryer to its highest setting. Apply heat to the dent with small, circular motions. To ensure that the metal gets sufficiently hot, apply heat for at least three to five minutes.
4. Tun off the hair dryer. Turn the can of compressed air upside down before spraying it, which will cause carbon dioxide to be released as a liquid rather than air. The carbon dioxide's extremely cold temperature will react with the metal. This will cause the metal to contract, making it flexible. Spray the dent until it pops out, which usually takes about 20 seconds. Of course, some dents may take longer, depending on size and depth.
5. Allow the ice particles to melt, then wipe the surface dry with a paper towel.
Depending on the amount of vinyl siding you have, the repair job may be costly.
Aluminum and vinyl siding is durable and should last for years. A storm or other weather conditions can damage the siding, causing it to bend or break. Professionals typically estimate siding repair costs on the amount of work required. Does this Spark an idea?
Average Price
Based on 2010 data, the cost of repairing siding is $3 to $5 per square foot. The price includes the removal of the old siding and the attachment of the new siding, as well as the preparation of the wall underneath.
Considerations
Aluminum siding and vinyl siding are the cheapest types of siding to repair. Fiber cement siding is slightly more expensive to repair, around 50 cents more per square foot. Lap cedar siding is the most expensive to repair and may cost up to $2 more per square foot.
Expert Insight
Some siding repairmen may charge a set amount per square foot and an additional labor cost per hour worked. If the repairman charges labor, expect to pay significantly more.
Tags: square foot, vinyl siding, expensive repair, more square, more square foot, siding repair
The U.S. makes available many legitimate grants for individuals through different agencies.
Every day millions of people use the Internet and other grant-related resources to search for available U.S. grants. They may be looking for help with utility bills, tuition or home improvements. Whatever the reason, legitimate U.S. grants are obtainable and within your reach. When trying to find the perfect grant for you, always check government websites or resources. These sources are legitimate and free from scams.
Low Energy Home Assistance Program
LIHEAP assists low-income households with energy bills.
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a grant program that helps low-income households meet their home energy needs. Households targeted by the program typically spend a large proportion of their income on energy bills. LIHEAP funding is available in all 50 states to households that meet specific income guidelines. To be eligible, a household's income may not exceed 150 percent of the federal poverty level or 60 percent of the state's median income. For more information, including where you can apply for LIHEAP, contact the National Assistance Energy Referral Project.
National Energy Assistance Referral Project
1-866-674-6327
E-mail: energy@ncat.org
Educational Financial Aid
Plan to attend college? Federal grants can help.
Going to college doesn't have to be a financial burden. The U.S. Department of Education offers four types of federal aid grants: Pell grants, the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, the Academic Competitiveness Grant, and the National Science and Mathematics Access to Retain Talent (SMART) Grant. Unlike loans, grants usually don't have to be repaid. Remember, federal grants are awarded to students with visible financial need.
The Home Repair Program
Funds can be used to repair roofs and structural damage.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture offers assistance to low-income families in rural areas who seek home upgrades. Grants can be used to repair, improve or simply modernize dwellings to remove health and safety hazards. The individual applying for assistance must be at least 62 years old, own and occupy the home, and have proof of taxes paid on the home. The grant limit is $7,500. If you're younger than 62 and need home repairs, you can apply for the home repair loan program (Section 504). Loans have a 1 percent interest rate with a 20-year term. Loans are available for up to $20,000.
Tags: Assistance Program, Assistance Program LIHEAP, Energy Assistance, energy bills, federal grants, legitimate grants, low-income households
RV sites are available in and around Orangevale, California.
Orangevale is a community in Sacramento's northeastern suburbs. In addition to the attractions in Sacramento, the state capital, visitors are drawn to the Orangevale area to explore the Sierra Mountains, Lake Tahoe and the part of California called "gold country.'' Orangevale has one RV mobile home park, while others are located nearby.
Almond Grove Mobilehome & RV Park
The Almond Grove Mobilehome & RV Park in Orangevale has 16 RV and mobile home sites that are available on a short-stay or long-term basis. The sites are equipped with water, sewer and electric connections. Most sites have 30-amp service, but 50-amp service is available. Pull-through sites are available, and some can handle big rigs. The Almond Grove Mobilehome & RV Park, is a no-frills facility that does not have bathrooms and showers or recreation facilities. High-speed wireless Internet access is available and pets are allowed. As of summer 2010, sites were $25 per night.
Almond Grove Mobilehome & RV Park
9127 Greenback Lane
Orangevale CA 95662
916-988-8888
Loomis RV Park
Approximately 10 minutes north of Orangevale, the Loomis RV Park has 79 RV sites that come with water, sewer, cable TV and 30- or 50-amp electric hookups. The park has pull-through sites large enough to accommodate slide-outs. The Loomis RV Park has restrooms, showers and a laundry facility, as well as a Wi-Fi access, a clubhouse with a lending library and TV, a dump station and a propane-filling station. Additional features include a swimming pool, a picnic area, a playground, a pet-walk area and a storage area. In 2010, RV sites were $30 per night.
Loomis RV Park
3945 Taylor Road
Loomis, CA 95650
916-652-6737
loomisrvpark.com
Mark J RV Park
The Mark J RV Park is a 55-and-older park located eight miles from Orangevale in Sacramento, 1/4-mile from Interstate 80. The park has 48 RV sites with concrete patios, Wi-Fi Internet access and water, sewer and electric connections, with both 30- and 50-amp service available. Guests must stay at least one week; the maximum stay is seven months. The property includes a clubhouse with a kitchen and a laundry room. Activities include playing pool and cards; special dinners are hosted on holidays. An RV repair shop is located across the street from the park, and a fun center, a theater and a museum are located within five miles of the park. in 2010, rates were $130 a week and $515 a month.
Mark J RV Park
4724 Madison Ave.
Sacramento, CA 95841
916-332-6244
markjrvpark.com
Tags: Almond Grove, Almond Grove Mobilehome, Grove Mobilehome, Grove Mobilehome Park, Loomis Park, Mobilehome Park, Mark Park
Installing bathtub faucets yourself can potentially save a lot of money over the cost of hiring a plumber to do the job. Although it helps to have experience doing plumbing work, if you are somewhat handy, then following a few simple steps will allow you to put in a bathtub faucet yourself. Does this Spark an idea?
Preparation
Shut the water valves off at the main source before you begin working. Prepare your bathtub faucet for installation by figuring out the height where the faucet will be attached to the wall. Do this by placing the tub flush against the wall and holding the bathtub faucet where you want it to go. Mark the area with a pencil so you know where to drill. Use a piece of plywood or a two-by-four on the other side of the wall so you have something to attach the faucet to that will hold it in place.
Drilling
Use a drill to make starter holes in the wall where you will be installing the bathtub faucet. Ensure that you have ample room between the wall studs. Use a pencil to mark where you will be drilling. You must measure the distance between the hot and cold faucet spouts and make two marks accordingly. Drill the two holes, using a level to ensure that they are even.
Attaching the Pipes
Wrap plumber's tape--also known as Teflon tape--around the threads of the faucet to make sure they're sealed tight. Secure the hot and cold water faucets to their respective water pipes with a washer and nut. Secure the faucet fitting to the water supply pipe with a connecting nut.
Assembly
Put the bathroom faucet flush against the wall on the side you will be using and make sure that the holes you drilled line up on the other side of the wall. If they line up like they're supposed to, then tighten the bolts on the back of the faucet on the back side of the wall. Turn the water back on at the main water supply and check the spout and the plumbing for any leaks.
Tags: bathtub faucet, side wall, against wall, flush against, flush against wall, make sure, other side
A greenhouse makes it possible to grow plants all year long, no matter the climate outdoors. Greenhouses are made of glass panes that trap sunlight indoors and creates a warm environment. In fact, the "greenhouse effect," or capture of UV rays, was discovered in greenhouses. Many gardeners use greenhouses to enjoy tropical plants all year-round or to start seedlings in the winter so they are ready to be planted in the spring. Proper maintenance of the greenhouse glass ensures that the greenhouse will work properly at all times. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Wash the glass using glass cleaner and newspaper or a soft cloth. Clean glass is needed for the greenhouse to work properly. Dirty glass will block sunlight from entering, and the greenhouse will not maintain the proper temperature and moisture.
2. Check around the edges of each pane to ensure that there are no gaps or cracks. Caulking is used to fill in gaps and holes.
3. Remove light scratches on the glass panes by rubbing an abrasive compound such as iron oxide, car polish or glass polish. Rub the polish on the scratch, using a circular motion. Only use light pressure when buffing, as you do not want to break the glass.
4. Tape up the cracked greenhouse glass with duct tape or UV-resistant clear tape until a replacement pane can be obtained. If the entire pane is broken, then tape a piece of cardboard in its place.
5. Obtain the replacement glass pane. If the pane of glass is a custom shape, then you may need a special order to cut the pane to size. Greenhouse glass panes can be found in standard square sizes. If you are unsure of what size pane to purchase, then take a sketch with you to the store.
6. Remove the broken pane of glass. For aluminum-framed greenhouses, simply remove the clips that hold the glass in place. For wooden greenhouses, the glazing pins, also called brads, must be removed to access the glass. Use a pair of pinchers or small pliers to grab and remove the pins. For aluminum- and wooden-framed greenhouses, if the broken pane of glass has the above pane overlapping, then this higher pane must be removed first.
7. Clean the seal strip found around the aluminum frame before replacing the pane. Ensure that the seal is undamaged. If necessary, replace this seal. For wooden frames, remove all of the old putty found around the edges of the pane. This may lift out with the broken pane but can also remain stuck to the wood. A chisel works well for removing the putty, though be careful that you do not cut into the wooden frame.
8. Install the new glass pane. For aluminum frames, simply replace the clips. There should be a clip every 12 inches. For wooden-frame greenhouses, apply a new layer of putty around the sides and bottom of the frame. the top edge is left free of putty. Embed the glass pane into the putty. Once the pane is in place, then insert the glazing pins, using a small pin hammer.
After a flood, the yearning to rebuild takes over. The first step toward recovering from a flood is to file your insurance claim, but this can seem a daunting experience during a crisis. Careful pre-planning can make dealing with your insurance easier and help you spur along the processing and payment of your claim. Start before the threat of flood looms by organizing necessary information and storing it safely outside your home. This makes it easy to access information and provide it to your insurance company when disaster does strike. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Prepare for impending floods by gathering together important information, including:
* your insurance company's name
* the policy number
* your telephone and/or email address
* the date of purchase, value and receipts of any major appliance and/or furniture purchases.
2. Store the information outside of your home. For instance, place these items in a safety deposit box, or scan them and store them online.
3. When a flood occurs, immediately contact your insurance agent or company to file a claim. Provide your policy number and contact information where you can be reached at all times. The company will have an adjuster contact you within a few days of the claim.
4. Phone the insurance company again if you do not hear from an adjuster within three days.
5. When you return to your home, separate the damaged items from the undamaged. Keep a swatch or sample of any damaged goods, but discard the items.
6. Make a list of the damaged items, noting their date of purchase and value, and attach copies of the receipts. If you can't return home, make a list of items that may have been damaged.
7. Photograph each damaged item. If your camera was damaged in the flood, purchase a disposable digital camera.
8. Complete the Proof of Loss form the adjuster provides. You must file this within 60 days of the flood event.
9. Provide all of the information and photographs to your adjuster with the signed Proof of Loss form.
10. Your insurance company will provide your claim payment after you and the insurer agree on the damage amount reported on your Proof of Loss form.
Tags: your insurance, insurance company, Loss form, Proof Loss, Proof Loss form, your home, company will
The first use of the trampoline is widely debated, but some believe it can be traced back to the Inuits, who often used a taut walrus skin as a trampoline-like contraption. Others believe the English should take credit for inspiring the trampoline through their use of blankets in a similar manner. Today, trampolines are usually made of a taut net and springs, which allow the user to jump up high when participating in gymnastics or other forms of exercise.
Instructions
Set up a Trampoline
1. Take all of the pieces out of the trampoline box and set them in an organized row. There may be a product sheet which lists all included parts which should be consulted to make sure everything is present.
2. Set the trampoline up in the space where it will stay. This is especially true for large trampolines, which may be quite difficult to move when fully assembled.
3. Find the trampoline legs. These are usually short pieces bent at a 90 degree angle. You can set the legs in a big group to the side.
4. Look for several long pieces with holes on the ends. These pieces will most likely be curved. The amount included with your trampoline will vary, depending on its size, but there are usually around six to eight pieces inside a large trampoline box.
5. Take the long pieces you've just uncovered and pair each one with a leg. Once you've paired all the pieces, you'll need to assemble them together to create the frame of the trampoline. You'll want to apply a great deal of pressure when building the frame. When you hear each piece snap together, you'll know the frame is sturdy.
6. Enlist the help of several people with strong muscles to help you put on the springs and stretch the net. The best way to tackle this is by attaching one spring at a time and pulling the net over it immediately afterward.
Senior citizens who qualify can be eligible to receive grants from the government to help them with various aspects of life. Health expenses, proper nutrition, housing and employment are a few of the areas where seniors can benefit with the use of grants. Each grant that the government offers can assist elderly people with life activities that are crucial to their health and well-being.
A group of citizens enjoying their retirement years.
Assisted Living
With age, the body undergoes changes that sometimes won't allow people to function like they did in the past. Senior citizens can develop mobility problems that hinder them. Seniors with a mobility issues might be able to live alone, but they would need certain accommodations to make the process as easy as possible. Owners of private nonprofit developments for the elderly may qualify to convert some or all of their units into Assisted Living Facilities (ALF). The units can be converted to help seniors with activities of daily living. These activities include but are not limited to bathing, eating and housekeeping. The types of conversions that can help frail seniors are specially made shower stalls, kitchens that are designed to work around mobility issues and a more-efficient unit design that allows elderly people to clean up their homes more effectively. Owners of senior complexes can apply for this grant by contacting a HUD agency in their area.
Health
Elderly people need quality medical insurance to deal with health-related issues that they may incur in the latter stages of life. Medicare Hospital Insurance helps meet the need of medical coverage for elderly people. Seniors who are 65 and older are eligible to receive this benefit from the government. To apply for the benefit of this grant, go to your local Department of Health and Human Services .
Nutrition
Having the right kind of food to eat is important for older people. With age, the body needs proper nutrition to make sure certain body functions can be carried out efficiently. The government offers the Nutrition Services Incentive Program, a grant-based program that states use to provide nutritious home-delivered meals to elderly people. State agencies that work with the elderly can receive funding from the Administration on Aging.
Supportive Services
Low-income senior citizens in public housing may need supportive services to perform major life activities. There is a grant from the government that could help people in this situation to not only receive support assistance but also economic assistance as well. The Resident Opportunity and Supportive Services is a program that has been created to assist low-income elderly people with these types of services through the welfare to work program. Senior citizens can apply for this program through their local public assistance office.
Grandparents Programs
There are some agencies within our communities that allow low-income senior citizens to become foster grandparents for children and youths who may need the support. The government helps support this program through the use of grant funding. The Corporation for National and Community Service is the primary sponsor of this program. Elderly people can contact the local Department of Health and Human Services to enroll.
Tags: elderly people, from government, this program, apply this, Assisted Living
Cedar logs provide a beautiful finish for both homes and furniture pieces. However, they need some maintenance and care to stay looking their very best. Take a few precautions and provide the appropriate care to ensure that your cedar logs stay looking new and retain their charm. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Decide how you want to treat your cedar logs. If you leave them untreated and exposed to the elements, the cedar will turn a weathered gray and lose it's red color. To keep the red color, you brush on an oil-based stain.
2. Choose the type of stain that you want to use. If you don't want to change the logs' appearance at all, choose a clear stain. However, you can also choose a stain that deposits color on the logs. Don't use varnish, which will crack and peel over time.
3. When caring for and repairing cedar logs, always use hot-dipped, galvanized nails. Never use galvanized nails, as they will cause the logs to have rust stains, and can weaken the logs structurally.
4. Brush the logs with a stiff scrub brush each season to loosen dirt and get rid of mud build-up.
5. Wash your logs with a power washer once a year. You can rent a power washer from your local hardware store. With a power washer, you can care for the logs that you can't reach with a broom, and blast away any dirt and debris.
Tags: power washer, cedar logs, galvanized nails, logs with, stain that, stay looking, your cedar
Most LCD TV problems happen with the screen. It could be a cracked glass or dead pixels. The screen is costly to repair. It's usually cheaper to buy a new TV than repair the screen. You have a few options, however, to replace the screen if you do not wish to buy a new TV set.
Instructions
1. Check with your the TV's manufacturer and the store where you bought it. Many manufacturers offer extended guarantees on their LCD TV sets. An LCD's fragile nature leads to companies offering these guarantees to justify the unit's cost.
Some retailers offer extended warranties for free or a price with a new purchase. The manufacturer often will replace a broken screen.
2. Check websites such as eBay or Craigslist. Many people advertise damaged TVs at a used price or even free. Purchasing a TV with a minor flaw is a cheap way to replace your damaged screen.
3. Contact local TV repair businesses. Some may be willing to tell you where they get spare parts if you are handy enough to make repairs. Search online for websites that list TV repair services such as Nationwide TV Repair.
One of my drywall pieces had a 2 foot by 6 foot hole. I can tell you first hand instructions for a DIY sheetrock repair. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. I did a DIY drywall repair, so I can instruct you to accomplish that.
Measure the hole to be repaired in your drywall making sure to also know the thickness of the plaster board. There are different thicknesses so this is as important as the height and width.
2. Cut at least 4 thin strips of wood lathing. The size of these will be the measurement of the sheetrock as well. This will be the backing so the sheetrock will be held in place and not fall through your hole you are repairing. Measure exactly where these are, so you can put sheetrock nails in the sheetrock to hold it to the wall. These lathing pieces can be super glued on the blunt ends to secure it to the existing plaster board that is intact on your wall. Let these dry fully, so they will not slip when some pressure is put on them. They should be tight, not sloppy in the hole area.
3. Cut your sheetrock to your measurements. Sand the edges down so you can easily place your patch in the hole. The mud or sheetrock paste will seal the gaps.
4. Use Sheetrock nails or screws to put the sheetrock in the hole. You have predetermined where these go with your measurements beforehand.
5. Get ready to use the prepared drywall mud with a putty knife to smooth it on the edges first, then the nail or screw holes. Apply a little at a time and then in a criss cross motion, use the trowel or putty knife again on that same spot to remove excess mud. This action puts mud in the spaces needed and then takes excess off the area. Let dry for at least overnight.
6. Sand the dried mud putty, and reapply another coat until you have a smooth surface to paint or wall paper. You might need 3 coats to get the desired outcome of your job, for this DIY drywall repair. When you are happy with your finished sheetrock repair work, paint or finish the wall to your decor ideas.
Tags: drywall repair, plaster board, putty knife, where these, with your, your measurements
Some retirees own mobile homes in Florida as second homes.
The construction, sale and installation of mobile homes in Florida fall under state and federal guidelines. The state of Florida has its own requirements for installation and warranty periods, while the state defers to federal guidelines for manufacturing standards and regulating mobile home communities with regard to age restrictions.
Manufacturing Guidelines
Since Florida has some of the most severe weather in the United States, including hurricanes, tornadoes and strong thunderstorms, mobile homes in Florida must be manufactured to meet the Housing and Urban Development (HUD) standards for mobile homes. The state of Florida follows HUD guidelines for the safety requirements and construction of these homes. Manufactured home plants are inspected by agents of the Design Approval Primary Inspection Agency (DAPIA), generally engineering firms who make sure that the designs can withstand severe weather in Florida. Mobile homes in Florida must carry a 12 month warranty.
Each section of a mobile home in Florida must have a HUD label at the rear of the home, one foot above the base and one foot inside the corner, indicating that the home meets HUD's construction requirements. The label also needs a six-digit number that the manufacturer assigns to the section.
Ownership
People who own the lot on which the mobile home sits own their home as real estate, while people who lease the lot on which the home is situated own the home as personal property. Anyone interested in buying a lot for a mobile home in Florida needs to find out if the lot has zoning approval before purchasing a unit. Zoning approval may be a lengthy and expensive process.
Some communities where people can lease lots are age-restricted. Retirees and second-home owners find manufactured home communities. According to the 2000 Census, the Census Bureau found that 21 percent of the housing units in Florida were mobile homes compared to 13 percent for the nation as a whole.
Installation
All mobile homes in Florida must be installed by licensed installers. Installers must make sure the lot is free of tree stumps and all vegetation except grass that can be as high as 3 inches. The installer must drill auger holes 2 feet into the earth and use auger anchors at intervals recommended by the manufacturer of the home. The installer must calculate the strength of the ground anchors and multiple the combined resistance to wind by a ratio of 1.5 to determine the number of anchors and straps to provide adequate wind resistance. The installation also includes a 12-month warranty under Florida state law.
Mobile homes located within 1,500 feet of the ocean or lakes in Florida need to have more anchors and tie downs. These locations are considered "Exposure D" areas where winds gain strength blowing over open water.
Tags: homes Florida, Florida must, mobile home, mobile homes Florida, homes Florida must, mobile homes
Corded and cordless steam irons allow people to remove wrinkles safely from clothing with steam. In time, though, as with any appliance, a steam iron can break down. Many people opt to buy a new iron rather than fix an old one, as the overall cost for a new iron may prove less than repair. As certain parts in a steam iron could potentially damage the environment, and appliances often fill up landfills quickly, it is extremely important to dispose of your steam iron in a manufacturer-approved and environmentally safe manner. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Contact your local waste management department and ask about local pickup programs and other disposal options. Many areas have collection points for disposal of appliances such as steam irons. Some pickup programs through recycling companies help recycle appliances for parts or refurbishment and resale.
2. Call your steam iron's manufacturer or the retailer where you purchased the iron -- especially if you're interested in purchasing the same brand of iron. As with local disposal options, many manufacturers and retailers also offer official recycling collection points for parts recycling and/or appliance refurbishment. In addition, many offer customers who recycle rather than throw out an appliance a discount -- sometimes called a recycling discount or trade-in allowance -- toward the purchase of a new iron through that manufacturer or retailer.
3. Take the iron to an appliance repair shop and ask about disposal options. As with local waste management, recycling companies and manufacturers, repair shops reuse and recycle old appliances such as steam irons for parts or resell after repair. In addition, many will provide a discount toward the purchase of another appliance within the shop. In some cases, a repair shop may even offer a cash program, buying used appliances from consumers for parts.
Tags: steam iron, your steam iron, disposal options, steam irons, your steam, addition many, appliances such
Manufactured homes are known for their affordability. Not only are they built in assembly-line style, reducing building time as well as cost, but the materials used are less expensive than those used in a traditional stick-built home. While this can make a larger home affordable, it can also lead to structural problems at some point, like with flooring. Even the floor of a more modern manufactured home will at some point show signs of wear like sagging, grooves and rippling. Fortunately you can repair a mobile home floor with a few items found at your local home improvement store. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Strip the floor of any covering such as linoleum or carpeting.
2. Prepare the area to be repaired by sanding over and around it with the power sander. This helps the thinset concrete adhere to the floor.
3. Mix the thinset in the bucket according to the directions on the packaging.
4. Apply the thinset to the damaged area of the floor. Smooth it out with the trowel, working it so that it meets and slightly tapers over the edge of the original flooring.
5. Allow the concrete to set up briefly. While it is still wet retrowel the surface to ensure it is level and even with the original floor.
Plan to sell your home? If so, you may wonder if a Realtor is necessary. A Realtor can save you time by pre-screening buyers and handling the legal and financial details of the house sale. You save money by selling the house on your own but prepare for time consuming research, negotiations and meetings with potential buyers. With a strong knowledge of the home buying process and a marketing plan, you can sell your home without a Realtor.
Instructions
1. Research the home selling process and state real estate laws. Look online and at the library for real estate and home selling information. Request home selling pamphlets from local Realtors and lenders. Ask for advice from friends and relatives who sold their homes without Realtors.
2. Find out your house’s market value to set a realistic sale price. Look up the selling price of other houses for sale on your block and neighborhood in local real estate listings in newspapers and online.
3. Set a sale price based upon your house’s market value. Swimming pools, decks, finished basements and additional bathrooms all add to a house’s value.
4. Consult with a real estate attorney to guide you through offers, purchase agreements and the closing.
5. Create a budget for home repairs and for preparing your house for open houses. Be careful not to spend over your budget.
6. Make necessary home repairs. Projects can range from replacing wall paper to fixing a broken garage door. Be prepared for home inspections.
7. Prepare your house for visits from potential buyers. Focus on keeping the house clean, fresh smelling, free of clutter and inviting. Look for tips on preparing your house for potential buyers online. See the Resources section for a link.
8. Keep the outside of the house as beautiful as the inside. During the spring and summer, cut the lawn, remove weeds and plant flowers. Rake fallen leaves in the fall. Shovel snow in the winter.
9. Create a marketing plan to attract potential buyers. Write down the sale price and acceptable offer ranges. Think about the type of home buyers you want to attract and where to find them. Include plans to run newspaper ads and create fliers and a lawn sign. Describe where you will distribute the fliers and run ads.
10. Create open house fliers. Include at least two photographs of the house. The flier should describe the square footage of the property and amount of bedrooms and bathrooms. Special features such as a swimming pool, deck or newly renovated kitchen should also be mentioned.
11. Display a “For Sale” sign on your lawn that is easily viewed from long distances and includes a holder for fliers.
12. Partner with a mortgage company to offer financing options for buyers who have not already secured their mortgage plans. By establishing a relationship with a lender, you can get expert advice on the selling process and help with marketing your home.
Tags: your house, potential buyers, real estate, home selling, sale price, your home
The costs are high enough to finance or refinance a home without paying tips or gratuity to the parties providing the services. Obtaining a new mortgage can cost thousands of dollars not including the interest paid over the life of a loan. Several different parties provide the services required to obtaining a loan, but these parties receive appropriate compensation from their employers for their work. All closing costs must be reflected on the HUD-1 closing statement for all federally regulated mortgages.
Notary Publics
Every mortgage loan requires that a notary public attend a closing. At one time, anyone performing notary public services could not receive any compensation for their service. The laws barring a company from paying for notary public services no longer apply. In some areas of the country it became common practice to provide a tip to the mortgage closer, who is a notary public, because it was the only way to compensate him for his time. This is a dying practice that only survives in a handful of closings, mainly in the northeast part of the United States.
Loan Officers
Loan officers should not ask for or expect a gratuity. Loan officers work for the mortgage company or mortgage broker who arranges the mortgage financing. Some mortgage companies receive compensation equal to 2 percent or 3 percent or more of the loan amount for obtaining the loan. On a $200,000 mortgage, this equals between $4,000 and $6,000. While loan officers may not receive all of that money, they generally receive 50 percent or more.
Appraisers
Home appraisers visit the home, measure the home and prepare an appraisal report for the lenders review. The appraisal company charges between $200 and $600 or more depending upon the appraisal required. Appraisers are licensed professionals who do not expect, and may not even accept a tip or gratuity. In fact, if an appraiser accepted a cash gratuity, it could be seen as the borrower's attempt to influence the appraised value on the home. This could cause the appraiser to lose his license and his livelihood.
Title Company
Title companies or title attorney offices close most mortgage loans. Most states use title companies but some states require home loans close with a title attorney. The title attorney may not be the one who actually closes alone; it's likely to be one of her assistants or employees. The loan closer receives payment from his employer and the borrower already pays a loan-closing fee as part of the standard closing costs.
Tags: notary public, title attorney, closing costs, notary public services, obtaining loan, percent more
Save some money by installing a wheel-bearing hub assembly yourself.
A wheel-bearing assembly isn't much easier to replace than the old wheel bearings that required a machine press, but a wheel-bearing hub assembly cuts out the middle man. Once you determine which bearing assembly needs to be replaced, you can purchase a new one and install it yourself, saving a good chunk of change in labor charges at the local repair shop to finally get rid of that roaring, humming noise.
Instructions
1. Park the vehicle on a flat, level paved or concrete surface. Place the vehicle in gear or park and apply the parking brake.
2. Place a wheel chock behind a rear tire (or front if you're doing a rear hub-bearing assembly).
3. Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel of the hub bearing you're replacing with the breaking bar and a socket; do not remove them.
4. Lift the wheel with the floor jack in a safe and secure manner. Support the vehicle on a jack stand, preferably on the frame rail if present.
5. Remove the lug nuts and wheel.
6. Locate the caliper bolts and remove them with the ratchet and a socket.
7. Pry the caliper off gently using a large straight-edged screwdriver and support the caliper on the coil spring with a bungee cord. Do not allow the caliper to dangle on the rubber brake hose.
8. Locate the caliper bridge bolts (if applicable) and remove them with the ratchet and a socket. You may want to break them loose with the breaking bar first if they're really tight. On some vehicles, the brake pads will remain in the bridge and can be removed by prying out with the screwdriver. On other models, the pads stay intact and may be clipped to the caliper. If you have to remove the pads, do so by taking note how they were placed in the bridge and be sure you're able to put them back in the same manner they were extracted.
9. Remove the rotor. If it is stuck to the hub, you may have to hit it with a large rubber mallet. Use a rubber mallet if you're not going to replace the rotor, so you don't damage the surface.
10. Remove any ABS wires attached to the hub bearing assembly (if applicable) or unclip the wire and trace it to the plug. In many applications, if the ABS wire is integrated with the wheel-bearing hub assembly, a new one will come with it. If you're not sure, check the box of the new bearing and if there's an ABS wire, follow the wire until you locate the plug, unplug it and unclip it from its mounts. If ABS is present but not integrated with the bearing assembly, remove the sensor from the bearing with a ratchet and socket.
11. Remove the spindle nut with the breaking bar and a spindle nut socket. Remove the washer behind the spindle nut.
12. Locate the wheel-bearing assembly bolts behind the knuckle, and loosen them with the breaking bar and socket. The location of these can sometimes create a tight area to place a socket and tool on to remove them with. You may have to apply some ingenuity. Replace the socket on the ratchet to extract the bolts quickly and easier. Most hubs have three or four bolts.
13. Install the slide hammer onto the lug studs and secure with tightened lug nuts. This may take several attempts and a couple of breaks in between to remove the hub bearing from the knuckle. Pay close attention to your progress and try to determine when the bearing will separate. Take note of how the backing plate is installed between the knuckle and the bearing so you can replace it in the same manner.
14. Sand off the rust and corrosion around the knuckle with a fine- to medium-grade sandpaper. Move the drive-shaft spindle around to get it out of your way. Take your time when doing this and make sure it's as clean as possible.
15. Place the backing plate in its original position and place the new bearing onto the knuckle. Manipulate the drive-shaft spindle splines into the center of the hub bearing. Push the bearing on as far as you can, making sure to line it up correctly if ABS lines or plugs are present.
16. Replace the wheel-bearing assembly bolts. They're pretty long, so as soon as you can thread them into the new bearing, start to tighten them. Pull the bearing in by tightening the bolts a little bit at a time and then switching to the next bolt to make sure the bearing assembly does not shift in the knuckle and cause damage. Once the bearing is drawn in flush, use the breaking bar to get the bolts as tight as you can get them.
17.Replace washer and spindle nut and tighten to proper torque specifications with the half-inch drive torque wrench and spindle socket.
18. Replace the brakes in the same manner you extracted them. You may need to push the caliper piston in a bit with a C-clamp to get it over the rotor. Plug in the ABS lines or reattach them to the bearing, if applicable.
19. Replace the tire and lug nuts, and tighten the lug nuts as tight as you can get them.
20. Lower the vehicle and tighten the lug nuts in an alternate fashion with the torque wrench and socket at the correct wheel nut specifications torque setting.
21. Pump the brake pedal if you had to push the caliper piston in with a C-clamp to restore hydraulic pressure to that caliper piston.
22. Remove the wheel chock, release the parking brake, and go for a test drive.
Tags: wheel-bearing assembly, remove them, them with, with breaking, bearing assembly
Mobile homes are prefabricated structures built in a factory and transported by truck to their set-up location. In many instances, manufactured homes are set on a block or concrete foundation and then raised with blocks. The home is tethered to the ground by augers running deep into the soil as well as "tie down straps," or metal straps, fastened to the block foundation. Pouring a concrete foundation requires a lot of physical labor. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Measure out the installation location with a tape measure. Mark the dimensions of the foundation along the grass with spray paint. This will create a visual reference for grass and topsoil excavation.
2. Rent a compact loader and dig out the area where the concrete foundation will be poured, following the spray painted lines on the ground. Dig the hole about 2 inches deep, making it as wide and long as the mobile home.
3. Pound 1-by-2-inch wood stakes into each of the four corners of the excavated area with a rubber mallet. Wrap string around each stake, creating a string rectangle.
4. Place a line level on each side to raise or lower the string as necessary until level. Place the level every few feet, checking it each time to ensure all four sides are level.
5. Build the concrete forms by installing 2-by-4-inch lumber beams around the excavated, stringed area. Fasten stakes to the beams with a hammer and nails. Pound the stakes into the ground with a hammer. The lumber should be flush with the excavation's edge but not go into the 2-inch excavated area.
6. Raise or lower the forms to set even with the level string line. Each side of the forms should be level to have a good, level foundation.
7. Pour concrete into the forms. Make the concrete flush with the lumber forms using a screed. Use a bullfloat to make the foundation smooth and even. Let it dry and set for 30 days before installing the mobile home on the foundation.
Tags: concrete foundation, excavated area, flush with, mobile home, stakes into
Eco-friendly houses are not only beneficial to the environment, but they are also more convenient and can save your family money. Creating and designing a house that is more efficient and cost effective doesn't mean that you have to live in the wilderness, it just means that you have to be more conscious of your consumption and waste. Does this Spark an idea?
Significance
Climate change, air and water quality and biodiversity are all environmental concerns, which people affect every day. When you live in a house, you require water, which needs to be purified and treated by a water treatment plant. You also need a trash service to help you manage your garbage, which ends up in a landfill where it can potentially contaminate the soil and groundwater. Everything we use from the planet is eventually sent back into it at some point of time or another, but when you make a conscious effort to clean up your pollution and reduce your waste in the home, it can make a positive impact on the environment.
Function
Eco-friendly homes serve two functions: provide shelter and reduce the negative impact on the environment. Creating and designing environmentally friendly homes gives people a model on how living can be done more simply and efficiently. While these homes might have green technology and alternative types of material in the walls and floors, they still provide essential needs.
Benefits
Green homes reduce the consumption of electricity, water and gas, which helps to preserve the environment's natural resources. This enables homeowners to save money on these necessities, and it teaches future generations protect and respect the planet. As more people choose to buy and live in eco-friendly homes, waste and contamination will be prevented on a larger scale.
Features
An eco-friendly house can be green on the inside and outside. You can set up recycling bins and use a garbage service that picks up recycling. You can also reduce your use of electricity and water by using monitors. On the outside of your home, you can install solar panels so you don't have to rely on electricity to run your water heater or other appliances. It's also eco-friendly to use harvested timber, cellulose insulation and lead-free paints. When it comes to creating an eco-friendly home, little changes such as using low-energy light bulbs can make a big difference. With advancements in technology and creativity, almost every aspect of your home can be greener by using alternatives.
Considerations
Some types of eco-friendly technology such as solar panels and waste water treatment devices can be expensive to install. However, over time money can be saved by installing these costly items. Even if you cannot afford to make these types of renovations, you can still make less expensive changes like installing a compost bin and recycling bins. If you have children, you can raise them to understand the eco-friendly design of your home so they have more respect and appreciation for the environment.
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There are number of grants available through the Government of Ontario
The Government of Ontario has a number of programs where they will give you free money when you invest in your home to make it more energy efficient. One program is designed to entice home owners to create additional living spaces for low-income seniors or individuals living with a disability. Does this Spark an idea?
Cool Savings Rebate Program
By replacing your existing central air conditioning unit with an ENERGY STAR-rated central air conditioner system, and also install a ENERGY STAR furnace or air handler, and control the system with a programmable thermostat, the government of Ontario will rebate $800 CDN per home, as of June 2010. This program is an ongoing program and is designed to encourage homeowners to upgrade their aging units that typically use more energy. To get the rebate, you will need to have the work done by a registered contractor and submit a photocopy of the invoice.
Ontario Home Energy Retrofit Program
This ongoing program will give you a matching grant (to the Federal ecoENERGY Retrofit program) of up to $5,000 CDN when you complete improvements to make your home more energy efficient. Through this program and the one offered by the federal government you could receive up to $10,000 CDN in free money. There are a few steps to go through to receive the grants. You need to have an energy audit done on your home and complete the renovations indicated in the audit, and have a subsequent audit after the renovations have been completed to evaluate the improvement in energy efficiency of your home. The adviser conducting the audit will notify the federal government, which will notify the government of Ontario at which point a rebate check will be prepared and mailed to you. (Money amounts are as of June 2010.)
Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Program
While not a grant, this program will give you a forgivable loan of $24,000 (as of June 2010) when you build a rental apartment inside your home provided you rent it out to low-income senior or person with a disability. There are a few conditions that must be met in order to receive the funding. For a period of 15 years you can only rent out the apartment to individuals who are either low-income seniors, or someone who has a disability. After the 15-year requirement has been fulfilled, you are able to rent it out to whomever you wish. And there is a cap on the amount of rent you can charge. For example, the maximum rent you could charge for a one bedroom united that is rented to a single person in the city of Ottawa, Ontario is $815 per month, as of June 2010.
Tags: your home, June 2010, more energy, will give, energy efficient, federal government, free money
With over 30,000 fitness facilities offering Spinning courses around the world, the need for certified Spinning instructors is growing every day. This popular exercise regimen offers plenty of opportunities for a career in the fitness industry.
Instructions
Become a Spinning Instructor
1. Use an online site to register for certification as a Spinning instructor (see Resources below). Many instructional programs offer online questionnaires, free orientation seminars and fitness tests to find out if being a Spinning instructor is right for you.
2. Approach the management at a local fitness center to see if they offer any certification programs for Spinning and aerobics instructors. Use online resources to locate Spinning classes that are close to you (see Resources below).
3. Consider a broader certification program for related routines like Pilates and aerobics if you wish to become a full-time instructor, which may make you more marketable in the fitness industry.
4. Familiarize yourself with the various types of stationary bicycles and fix or troubleshoot them. This can be a very useful skill for a potential instructor.
5. Be prepared to prove your physical fitness by including a note or referral from your doctor with any application or resume. Some fitness centers require such a note or will offer their own physical examination to all potential instructors.
6. Complete the training program and receive your certification to become a Spinning instructor. Be prepared for at least nine months of training, which may include motivational techniques, breathing and visualization seminars, bicycle repair workshops and even medical training to recognize and monitor heart rates.
7. Purchase all of the materials needed to become a Spinning instructor, including a heart rate monitor, appropriate clothing and cycling shoes, and even a small tool kit for making minor adjustments to bikes.
Tags: Spinning instructor, Become Spinning, become Spinning instructor, Become Spinning Instructor, fitness industry, instructor prepared, Resources below
Make your own window screen frames to keep out bugs and other small creatures.
Window screens can help keep out unwanted visitors, especially those of the "multi-legged" variety. These screens are held in place on top of a window screen frame. The frame is then fastened to your window. Making window screen frames isn't difficult, and it's probably something that every do-it-yourselfer will have to face at one point or another. Measuring your window opening properly is the key to making a good window screen frame. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Measure the frame where you'll be installing the window screen. You'll need to measure both the height and the width. Write these measurements down.
2. Subtract the corner bracket dimensions from your measurements to determine the width you need to cut. For example, many corner brackets are 1/2 inch in size. You'll be using two corner brackets on each side. So if the width of your window is 24 inches, you need to cut your width piece to 23 inches. Mark these measurements on your top, bottom, right and left side pieces.
3. Saw off your frames to the appropriate length. Sand down any rough edges with a file.
4. Insert the two corner pieces into the bottom frame piece.
5. Slide the two mounting brackets into either end of the top piece, then attach the remaining two corner pieces to each end.
6. Connect the right and left sides to the top piece by the corners. Attach the bottom piece.
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