Las Vegas, in the middle of the Mojave Desert, is a challenge for gardeners. Winters are frosty and summers are scorching. The local water department pays homeowners to remove lawns from their landscapes, as they use far too much water. Newcomers to the area like to bring a bit of their old homes with them and that usually includes growing a lawn. Does this Spark an idea?
Timing
The best time to lay sod in Las Vegas is in the spring. March 10 is the last frost date for Las Vegas and the soil has generally warmed enough by then to help the lawn become established.
Varieties
Warm-season grasses are ideal for the Las Vegas valley. They tolerate the intense summer heat and use less water than other grasses. Bermudagrass is one of the most commonly grown grasses in Las Vegas, although zoysiagrass is also adapted to the area.
Considerations
The Las Vegas Valley Water District has clearly defined watering restrictions according to season. It has imposed turf restrictions prohibiting the installation of new turf in front yards. Rear or side yards may contain 50 percent or 100 square feet of turf, whichever is greater.
The best way to treat termites is to hire a professional exterminator. However, the newer baiting method of termite control is much less difficult than older methods. Baits are small tubes full of paper, wood or cardboard and a slow-acting pesticide. The termites eat the bait and bring it back to the colony, where other termites ingest the pesticide and are killed. Baiting requires time and commitment, but it can kill most of a termite colony if done properly. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Label the outline of your home with the dimensions. Also note the location of any wet areas on your property, such as outdoor spigots and mulch beds.
2. Wear gloves to protect you from the poison in the baits. Place baits per manufacturer's instructions, usually one every 10 feet about a foot from the foundation. Don't place baits in soil previously treated with pesticide. Use the drawing of your home's outline to mark where each bait is placed.
3. Place additional baits in areas favorable to termites, such as around infested trees, under water spigots, near tree stumps and by piles of wood. Be sure to mark these on your drawing, too. Termites can't smell or see the baits, they will just come upon them by chance, so the more you place, the better the chances of termites finding them.
4. Monitor your baits. In a notebook, write out a schedule for checking your baits every two weeks. If you find termite activity in a bait, add more baits around it and replace empty baits. Sometimes it takes months to find termite activity, especially if you don't place the baits during warm weather months, when termites are most active.
5. Replace baits with wood sticks once you stop seeing activity in them for at least two months. Write a new schedule for checking the wood sticks at least once a month. The sticks allow you to continue monitoring the area to see if termite activity picks up again.
6. Arrange to have a termite inspection done to ensure that your termite problem is under control.
Tags: termite activity, find termite, find termite activity, schedule checking, wood sticks, your baits, your home
Austin's natural environment and abundance of natural springs make it one of the top residential areas in the U.S.
As the city of Austin--and capital of Texas--grows, more and more senior citizens are moving in because of its weather, affordability and recreation-oriented lifestyle. Selected by Money Magazine as the number two best big city to live in, Austin has something for everyone. Take daily walks along Ladybird Lake or go swimming at the Barton Springs Pool--a natural spring good for swimming most of the year. The city is full of culture--with a variety of ethnic, age and community groups--that makes the city stand out from every other city in Texas. Austin has a variety of retirement communities to fit your personality and budget.
Brighton Gardens of Austin
Brighton Gardens of Austin is a Sunrise Senior Living branch with well-kept courtyards and gardens. Life at Brighton Gardens is apartment living with as much care or attention as you need. Daily activities, recreation and service from a courteous and trained staff is what life at Brighton Gardens is all about. The community is close to the city but not in the hustle and bustle of Austin. Just on the outskirts in the beautiful Northwest Hills part of Austin, Brighton Gardens brings the independence back to retirement life.
Brighton Gardens of Austin
4401 Spicewood Springs Road
Austin, TX 78759
512-366-3149
sunriseseniorliving.com
Buckner Villas
Buckner Villas in Austin brings to senior citizens everything people love about Austin through its 25-acre, lush campus close to downtown. The villas are close to restaurants, shopping, activities and Austin landmarks, but still offers a quiet and safe living environment. Buckner has something for everyone, from independent living to specialized care for those who need it. The campus has pools, exercise rooms, game rooms and more to make your time there enjoyable.
Buckner Villas
11110 Tom Adams Drive
Austin, TX 78753
800-381-4551
bucknerretirement.org
Westminster Manor
Westminster Manor in Austin is a leader in retirement living in Austin and offers a variety of services, amenities and comforts for its residents. At Westminster, community is everything, and it starts with activities and games, a gourmet community-style dining room, swimming in the indoor pool and the chance to pursue past hobbies and new interests. Westminster offers art classes, shopping and recreation trips and other comforts. Amenities include a business center for computer and printer use, a general store, a dance hall, guest sleeping accommodations, fine dining, beauty salon and barber shop, fitness center, a chapel, game rooms and a library.
Computers, whether they are new or old, all seem to slow down, have a lot of errors and crash with increasing frequency the more you use them. What makes these issues difficult is that there could be any number of reasons for the slow-downs, errors and crashes. So how do you repair these issues if you don't even know where to start? The best way right now is software built to do just that--software that looks at a variety of different items on your computer and then repairs any problems it encounters.
System Mechanic
System Mechanic from iolo Technologies is one such program. When you first start System Mechanic, it will run a diagnostic on your computer to find any current problems and potential problems. It will look at everything ranging from your computer's registry to how files are allocated on the hard drive to boosting Internet speed and more.
Solving Slow Boot-Up Times
One common area that needs repair with a computer is its start-up time. A hidden reason for a slow start-up time is that there is a lot of software that is starting up at the same time Windows is. The worst part of this is that you probably don't even know it is doing it. System Mechanic, as part of its feature-set, will look at which programs are starting at the same time as Windows. It will then show you what these programs are, what function they are performing and if those functions are important or not. From there you can decide which programs to keep at start-up and which to remove. Removing unneeded programs at start-up will significantly increase start-up time.
Resolving General Slowness and Errors
Another issue is general computer slowness or sluggishness during the course of the day. This can be caused by a variety of factors. Common ones tend to be orphan files, registry errors and a fragmented hard drive. Orphan files are files on your computer that are "left over" from software you may have uninstalled a long time ago. Yet those files are still sitting there, taking up space. System Mechanic finds and removes those files. The registry is much the same way. Every time you install software, it makes a change in your computer's registry. The registry is where Windows goes to see specifically execute programs. When you uninstall software, many times it doesn't remove the information from the registry, forcing Windows to dig through all of this old junk before it finds what it is looking for. Over time, this can create massive slowdowns. System Mechanic, much like it does with orphan files, will find and remove old entries. The other common issue is with a fragmented drive. As you install and uninstall software, remove old files, add new files and basically use your computer, the information on your hard drive moves around. Over time this can become "fragmented." Files that belong near each other move apart. Huge gaps between data can form. By "defragmenting" your hard drive, you can get these files to move back together again, so that Windows can access them that much faster.
Conclusion
By running System Mechanic and fixing all of the above, you will also find that your computer will have less errors in general. All of those same problems that cause system slowdowns and slow boot times are also frequently the cause of errors in computers in general. So running System Mechanic or similar PC repair software on a regular basis should keep your computer running well for a long time. System Mechanic is $39.95 after a free 30-day trial.
Tags: System Mechanic, your computer, hard drive, start-up time, your hard drive, computer registry
Your eBook reader's power management settings help conserve the battery. It's common for this feature's default setting to be on. When enabled, the device typically enters sleep mode after 60 minutes of inactivity and completely shuts down after five days of non-use. A low battery level also causes the eBook reader to completely shut down instead of going into sleep mode. If your computer enters sleep mode while charging the eBook reader, it'll drain the battery. Check these things first so you can get back to reading.
Instructions
1. Charge the battery if your eBook Reader completely shuts down after an hour of inactivity, instead of going into sleep mode.
2. Turn on the eBook reader and your computer. Confirm that the computer is not in sleep mode.
3. Connect the eBook reader to your computer using a USB connection, or use the recommended AC adapter and connect to the device and wall outlet. Verify that the adapter is not bent or otherwise damaged. Plug another appliance in the outlet to confirm that it is working correctly.
4. Deactivate power management if the eBook reader completely shuts down after five days of inactivity and you don't want that to happen. Tap "More" from the Home menu, then tap "Settings." Tap "Power Management," then tap "Off." Tap "OK."
5. Press the "Reset" button on the eBook reader if problems still occur. Slide the "Power" switch once to turn the device back on.
Tags: eBook reader, sleep mode, completely shuts, completely shuts down, down after, shuts down
If you use a VCR to watch and record movies, eventually you will have to deal with the most common type of repair: getting a stuck cassette out of the machine. You can take the VCR to a repair shop, but the technology is outdated enough that you may be charged for a pricey "specialty repair." It is much more cost effective (and usually faster) to fix the VCR yourself.
Instructions
1. Unplug your VCR and, after a few minutes, plug it back in. Sometimes VCRs get confused and think the cassette is stuck, but really it just needs to have its microcomputer reset. If this does not allow you to eject the cassette, move onto the next step.
2. Unplug the VCR to eliminate the risk of electric shock.
3. Remove the top cover to the VCR by removing the screws holding it in place. If necessary, remove the bottom cover too. Put the screws somewhere safe.
If the cover doesn't come loose easily, don't force it. Check for any screws you may have missed, as well as plastic tabs holding it in place. These may need to be depressed in order to get the cover off.
4. Inspect the VCR for foreign objects such as toys, pennies and rocks (an important step if you have kids) that may be wedging the cassette in place. If you find any, carefully remove them. Plug in the VCR and hit Eject. If it still does not work, unplug it again and move on.
5. Check the path of the tape from the cassette, through the VCR and back into the cassette. See if it is bound up anywhere, and where you will need to pull it in order to get it free.
6. Carefully coax the tape free from the area where it is bound up, and from the VCR heads in general. If it's a cassette that you don't care about, simply cut the tape with a pair of scissors and pull it free.
7. Remove the cassette from the VCR after the tape is free from the VCR's parts. Hold the door open so that the tape doesn't get caught again.
8. Replace the cover and screws.
9. Run a cleaning tape through the VCR to eliminate the problem that is causing cassettes to get jammed. The VCR may be dirty, magnetized or holding a static charge. The cleaning tape will fix all of these.
Imagine returning to your summer cabin after a particularly dreadful and cold winter. You may wonder how the cabin held up in the harsh conditions. Winter can wreak havoc on a home unless it has been "winterized." Pipes can freeze; cracks can form in the walls. Your return to your summer vacation spot may be marred by unnecessary repairs if you did not winterize it. If you have a vacant home, winterize it prior to leaving. Pay special attention to your septic system; you want your home smelling fresh when you return. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Shut off the water to your property. Use the main shut-off valve or contact your water company and have them turn your water off.
2. Turn off the gas or electricity to the boiler and your water heater.
3. Drain the water from your pipes. To do this, open all faucets (inside and outside), starting with the upstairs first and working down. Allow the water to drip from the taps until the water stops.
4. Open the drain faucets on the water heater, any water treatment equipment installed on the property, and from your main supply line. Note that you may need to contact your water company for specific instructions pertaining to your specific property. Allow the water to drain completely.
5. Fill all the traps and drains with recreational vehicle antifreeze. Pour at least one quart of antifreeze into your septic system's drains and traps. Pour a gallon of antifreeze into each toilet and then flush the tank.
6. Place plastic wrap over your toilet seats; this will slow evaporation.
Tags: your water, Allow water, antifreeze into, contact your, contact your water, from your
Find toll-free numbers using directory assistance or online directories.
Toll-free numbers are telephone numbers that begin with 800, 888, 877 or 866. These numbers permit dialers to call a business in the United States or Canada without paying long-distance fees. The business that established the toll-free number pays the charges for the telephone call. Many telemarketers and large companies use toll-free numbers for their customers' convenience. Although locating the toll-free number for a business can be difficult because the numbers are not always widely published or made available in local telephone guides, there are ways to find the number through the Internet or telephone operators.
Instructions
1. Know the exact name (including the spelling) of the company or business you wish to contact. Most directories are listed under the business name; however, knowing the city where the business is located can expedite locating the toll-free number.
2. Call the toll-free directory assistance operator at 800-555-1212. This telephone number is the official directory for toll-free telephone numbers. The operator will ask the name of the listing and will give the telephone number, if available.
3. Use an online toll-free directory such as Gethuman, Go Toll Free or National Toll-Free Directory (see Resources). These directories permit you to conduct an online search by name for the toll-free number. Gethuman covers numbers in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom.
4. Visit the website of a company. Many businesses maintain a website and post their contact details on the site. Navigate to the website and look up the telephone number in the "Contact Us" tab.
5. Call directory assistance from a cellular phone or dial 4-1-1 from a land-line telephone. Directory assistance can provide some toll-free numbers. Give the name and location of the business to expedite service.
The Ozarks is considered a culturally and historically rich area, encompassing a mountainous region touching five states. Because of the natural beauty in the area, it is a popular vacationing spot with numerous tourist attractions. It is also an area rich in educational opportunities. Community colleges, whether a main campus or a branch location, are plentiful in the area for adults seeking either career advancement or change.
Ozarks Technical Community College
With two campuses in Springfield and Richwod Valley, as well as branch centers in Waynesville, Branson, Marshfield and Lebanon, this school offers busy adults options. Certificate and Associate Degree programs are offered in fields such as nursing, welding technology, automotive repair, business, and early childhood development. Financial aid is available, and the entire application process can begin online. For additional information, online chat is offered on their website.
Ozarks Technical Community College
1001 E. Chestnut Expressway
Springfield, MO 65802
(417) 447-7500
OTC.edu
Northwest Arkansas Community College
Offering workforce entry degrees and Associate Degrees, as well as professional and technical certificates, NWACC also has numerous career choices. Programs in art, business, computer technology, criminal justice and graphic design are just a few that are offered on the main campus, as well as eight branch learning centers. Online classes, financial aid and an honors program are additional perks that may interest prospective students.
Northwest Arkansas Community College
NWACC Burns Hall
One College Drive
Bentonville, AR 72712
479-636-9222
800-995-6922
nwacc.edu/
Tulsa Community College
TCC's mission statement emphasizes bettering the community and enriching the lives of both its faculty and students, while providing flexible and affordable education. Certificate and degree programs are available in a number of fields. Flexible class schedules are offered on four main campuses and numerous branch locations, and students can apply for financial aid, take online courses and even apply to the school through the website.
Tulsa Community College
6111 East Skelly Drive
Tulsa, Oklahoma 74135
Tulsacc.edu
Cowley College
While the main campus is found on the southeastern side of Kansas, Cowley offers online courses and numerous branch locations for busy adults. Seventy programs and degrees are available to choose from, with flexible class scheduling; the school boasts small classes and low tuition. For more information, or to apply online, you can visit the website.
Cowley College Office of Admissions
125 South 2nd Street,
Arkansas City, KS 67005
620-441-5303
800-593-2222
cowley.edu
Tags: Community College, main campus, Arkansas Community, Arkansas Community College, branch locations
Collecting evidence is key to negotiating with an insurance company after a car crash.
You can claim a total loss of your vehicle if it is beyond salvation and has become utterly unusable after an accident. A total loss situation can occur if the cost of fixing your vehicle is at least 70 percent of its fair market value, though states and companies vary in their calculations and others set the bar higher. Insurance companies, in general, resist claims of total loss as they would have to pay you more compensation in such cases. You can, however, negotiate with the insurance claims adjuster to receive the maximum total loss value for your vehicle.
Instructions
1. Wait for the insurance adjuster to inspect your vehicle. It can take about three days to inspect the vehicle and about two weeks to assess if the damage amounts to a total loss. This is because the adjuster has to do some background research to know if there was any damage to your vehicle before the accident and to determine the price your vehicle would have fetched had there been no accident.
2. Ask the insurance adjuster for a preliminary valuation of your vehicle. Insurance companies employ third party companies such as the ADP/Auto Source or CCC Information Services Group Inc, to determine the fair market value of your vehicle. The adjuster collects information including vehicle make, model and year of purchase. The adjuster also inspects the condition of the car and gives it a rating. This rating has a considerable impact on the final offer made for your vehicle. The adjuster submits information collected to the CCC. The CCC evaluates the vehicle value and sends it to the adjuster.
3. Estimate the value of your vehicle. Note that the insurance company takes into account the value of your vehicle at the time of accident not from its time of purchase. One reliable source that you can use to find out your vehicle value is the Kelley Blue Book website, which includes year, mileage and your vehicle features for valuation. Use the ZIP code search of the website so that you get a local estimate. Obtain more than one repair estimate for your vehicle to show the costs required to fix the damage. Have the Blue Book value and repair estimate in writing. Negotiate for a higher settlement using this information.
4. Ask the insurance company for your vehicle's CCC report. This report should give the vehicle damage estimates along with phone number and exact location listing of vehicles comparable to yours. Drive to the exact location and compare the vehicle model, make and mileage with yours to see if they are actually similar. If they are, compare features such as the music player and convenience factors such as lack of wear and tear and up-to-date maintenance. If your vehicle was in better shape or had more features, request a change to the estimate.
5. Look for vehicles similar to yours fetching a good price. You can collect evidence in the form of newspaper advertisements and present them the insurance company. Make sure that it is the local market price though.
6. Ensure that the location of the comparable vehicles is within 30 to 50 miles from your place. If more, you can negotiate saying the location is not in your market and therefore the fair market value does not hold.
7. Claim the right of appraisal clause in case all of the above negotiation fails. According to this clause in many policies, the insurance company would have to hire an independent appraiser to evaluate the fair market value of your vehicle. Insurance companies need to pay for such appraisals; therefore they may agree to negotiate for a higher settlement instead of this procedure.
Tags: your vehicle, insurance company, value your, value your vehicle, fair market
Consumer complaints to the Better Business Bureau about auto repair shops consistently rank in the top 15 types of complaints. Most auto repair shops perform reliable repairs. Sometimes, however, repairs don't measure up to expectations. When this happens and your best efforts to resolve the problem fail, try following these steps to strengthen your position.
Instructions
1. Know the laws in your state. You may be entitled to written estimates, the return of your replaced parts or awards in excess of the amount of the original bill. Hopefully, this information will not be needed but it is important to know what the law says. You might find that the company has violated the law, hence greatly improving your position in any negotiations.
2. Determine whether miscommunication, incompetence or alleged fraud is at the root of your problem. In the case of a misunderstanding or a failed good faith attempt to repair your car, some mutual resolution can usually be reached. When fraud is alleged, you may have to use everything that is at your disposal.
3. Give the repair facility a chance to resolve the problem, but set very specific ground rules such as no more expenditures and a expected time of completion.
4. Offer to compromise. Some suggestions are: get the repair done correctly at another shop with a reimbursement from the original shop; a full or partial refund for the faulty repair or a "store credit" at the shop for some future service or product.
5. Consider arbitration. The Better Business Bureau has a dispute resolution program in which member companies agree to participate when a consumer initiates a complaint. AAA also has a similar method of resolving member complaints against shops participating in their Approved Auto Repair program. You could also inquire at the trade associations to which the shop belongs for any arbitration procedure they might have.
6. Know that if all these efforts fail you may have no alternative but to file suit. Depending on the amount of the loss, initiating action in small claims court may be appropriate. Otherwise consultation with an attorney would be prudent.
Tags: auto repair, auto repair shops, Better Business, Better Business Bureau, Business Bureau, repair shops, resolve problem
The ability to fix scheduled tasks in Windows XP (and all recent Windows operating systems) is one of the nice features Microsoft provides to their users. Users have the ability to set any program or file to open/run at any time, be it daily, weekly, monthly, at startup, at login or just one time. This can come in very handy for users who don't want to have to remember to run programs such as virus scanners or disk defragmenters (or any kind of program, script or document).
Instructions
1. Open Scheduled Tasks. To do this, open "Start > All Programs > Accessories > System Tools," then click on "Scheduled Tasks" to launch the utility.
2. Open the "Add Scheduled Task" file to launch the Scheduled Tasks Wizard. This wizard will guide you through the process of fixing a scheduled task to run at your desired time.
3. Press "Next" on the first page, then select a program from the list provided. If the program (or file/script) is not in the list, click on "Browse," then navigate to the file and double-click on it to select it. Press "Next."
4. Enter a name for the task (or accept the default) then select how often you want the task performed (daily, weekly, for example). Press "Next."
5. Select the start time (time of day) and start date for the task, then press "Next."
6. Input the password for the account you're using, then press "Next."
7. Review your scheduled task settings, then press "Finish" to fix the scheduled task (or "Back" if you want to change any of the settings before setting the task).
Tags: then press, daily weekly, Open Scheduled, program file, Scheduled Task, scheduled task, Scheduled Tasks
Painting your mobile home walls doesn't have to be hard.
If you live in a mobile home, you may have noticed that the walls in your home are different than the walls in other permanent homes. This difference can make painting your walls a little bit more complicated than painting walls in a traditional home. While it is a little more complicated, it isn't impossible by any stretch. You will just need to have the right materials and follow the proper steps. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Determine what type of walls you will be painting over. The two common types found in mobile homes are vinyl-coated and paneling. Vinyl-coated walls generally have patterns on them, and paneling normally has grooves in the wall. If you have vinyl-coated walls, skip to Step 3.
2. Apply compound in every one of the grooves in the wall, all the way down to the floor and up to the ceiling. Allow this to dry, then apply another coat. This is needed because the compound will actually contract while it dries.
3. Sand the entire wall with sandpaper. If you had to use joint compound, make sure that the grooves are even with the rest of the wall everywhere. If they are not, fill in the holes with more compound. If you have vinyl-coated walls, make sure you are working to get the wall as smooth as possible, and hopefully as much of the printing off as you can.
4. Wipe the walls down to remove all of the dust and debris from sanding.
5. Begin priming. You may want to select a stain-hiding primer and paint if you have printing on your walls. Otherwise, these may show through the paint in the end. Now let the primer dry.
6. Paint your wall with the color and type that you've selected. You will probably have to apply more than one coat no matter what type of wall that you have to hide any imperfections in the wall.
Tags: grooves wall, have vinyl-coated, have vinyl-coated walls, little more, little more complicated, make sure, mobile home
The majority of Canada's government grants for homes are for energy-efficient improvements.
The government of Canada has spent recent years introducing grant programs for purchasing and renovating homes. Some of these grants are to stimulate the economy and encourage home ownership among younger members of the population, and others are meant to push homeowners to make their homes more energy efficient and less wasteful through renovations. Some of these grants come in the form of tax credits, which must be declared when filing income taxes, while others are immediately given as they may be needed to fund renovations. Does this Spark an idea?
Provincial Grants
There are quite a few government grants for homes that are introduced by provincial or municipal governments in Canada. Examples include the Ontario Home Energy Savings Program and Home Energy Assistance Toronto program, each of which provided grants to homeowners for renovating or insulating their home to be more energy efficient. If a homeowner completed each renovation on both lists, including installing solar panels, insulating his attic and installing low-flow toilets, he could get up to C$6,000. All of these grants vary by province.
Canadian Eco-energy Retrofit Rebate Program
The Canadian Eco-energy Retrofit Rebate Program is similar to the Ontario Home Energy Savings Program, offering grants to homeowners for completing energy efficient and environmentally responsible renovations. This program offered up to C$5,000, but when paired with provincial programs the grants could be has high as C$10,000.
To begin the process, homeowners would have to pay for a home energy audit to see where their home stands with regard to energy conservation and to see recommendations for improvements. The government of Ontario also had this requirement and would pay for half of the audit.
This program was canceled in March of 2010, one year early. The government of Canada maintained the program was under review and not canceled for good, but speculation remains that there was not enough funding to continue.
Home Renovation Tax Credit
The Home Renovation Tax Credit was introduced for the 2009 tax year in order to stimulate the economy by creating construction jobs during the 2009 recession. Homeowners were able to claim 15 percent of a maximum of CAN$10,000 in renovations to receive a tax credit of up to C$1,350.
First-Time Buyer Tax Credit
The First-Time Buyer Tax Credit is a tax credit for first-time home buyers that was a part of the Canadian government's economic action plan to help stimulate the economy. It offers first-time buyers credits of C$5,000 for home purchases made after January 2009.
Tags: energy efficient, Home Energy, stimulate economy, these grants, Buyer Credit, Canadian Eco-energy, Canadian Eco-energy Retrofit
An appliance service call involves a technician traveling to the customer's home.
Most appliance repair shops charge a service fee for visiting the home and giving an estimate. It may take some trial and error before a homeowner finds a shop with policies that fit her needs. Does this Spark an idea?
Average Cost
The costs for a service call vary, depending on location. Larger metropolitan areas have higher costs, and areas with higher costs of living such as California and New York also have higher service fees. In 2010, the average cost for a service call was between $75 and $125.
Low Fee
Some appliance repair technicians use a low service fee as a marketing device. In various cities, a homeowner may find a service that advertises $29.99 service fees or $35 service calls. These can be great deals and a way for a small operator to catch the attention of a homeowner. However, they may also be a classic bait and switch tactic.
No Service Fee Repair Shops
Some shops advertise no service fee or no fee for estimates. However, visiting a home and giving a bid does take time, and therefore costs money. If a homeowner chooses a shop that prices this way, be sure the technicians do not charge mileage charges or some other undisclosed fee. Also, make note of the bid costs. The cost for the visit may be integrated into higher labor charges for the same repair.
Tags: appliance repair, Average Cost, have higher, higher costs, home giving, service call
They say that everything is bigger in Texas and that's certainly true of their septic tank requirements. Site evaluations, permits and authorized installation procedures are only a few of the hoops you'll have to jump through to get a septic tank installed in the Lone Star State. Here are a few of the major considerations to keep in mind when installing a septic system in your home on the range. Does this Spark an idea?
Permits
Before installing a new septic tank or upgrading an old one, the first requirement is to make sure you have the proper permits in place. The state of Texas requires a permit for the majority of septic tank installations. However, there are exceptions to this. If the tank meets the following requirements, Texas state law does not require a permit: the tank must serve a single family residence on property that is 10 acres or larger (this property can be the only property located on the land), not cause a nuisance or pollute groundwater, be located 100 feet or more from the property, or dispose of the effluent on the property. Local authority permits might have more stringent standards in addition to the state requirements.
Grandfathered Systems
In certain circumstances, a septic tank in Texas may be grandfathered, and exempt from certain permitting requirements if the following requirements are met: the system must have been installed before September 1, 1989 or before a local dealer had an authorized installation program, have a treatment and disposal facility, and is not being used to treat a greater capacity of sewage than when it was first installed.
Site Evaluation
Since September of 2002, the state of Texas has required a site evaluation of the area where any septic tank system will be installed. Only a licensed site evaluator or a licensed professional engineer can conduct the appropriate evaluation. The purpose of this is to determine the soil quality, including percolation rates, groundwater levels and other factors in order to determine which septic system is best suited for the site.
Septic Systems
Another requirement to consider is the type of septic system being installed. For example, Lined Evapotranspiration (E-T) systems, are suitable for most installations, as long as the slope on the field is no more than 30 percent. In addition, these types of systems can only be installed by an installer with the State of Texas classification of Installer Class II. Similar restrictions and requirements also apply to mound systems, low pressure dosing, absorptive drainfields and leaching chambers. Refer to your site evaluation for groundwater levels, rock horizons and minimum depths to help select the proper system.
DIY Installation
Is is legal under Texas law to install your own septic tank. However, certain systems cannot be sold to property owners individually and must be sold to factory representatives. In addition, if you pay for any work done by contractors while installing the tank yourself, the contractors must be licensed for septic tank installation by the State of Texas. An example of this would be the hiring of a contractor to dig a hole for the septic tank. Exceptions to this rule are licensed electricians and the person who delivers the tank or septic system to the installation site.
Clean interior lenses of binoculars by disassembling them.
Disassembling binoculars will likely result in the damage or even destruction of the field glasses; you should attempt this procedure only on inexpensive binoculars or those that are already damaged, so you can get the feel of do it properly. As you take apart the field glasses, label every part, including from which scope it came (left or right) to aid in the reassembly process. Binoculars include two scopes (or "optics," containing the lenses or "objectives" and prisms) held together by a mounting assembly. Disassemble one scope at a time.
Instructions
1. Gently turn the external guard ring (the outermost ring on the forward-facing part of the binoculars) in a counterclockwise motion and remove it (all rings will come free in a counterclockwise motion). If the ring does not turn by hand, use a strap wrench (as you would to remove an oil filter from a car).
2. Unscrew the retaining ring from the front of the objective housing (the second ring behind the guard ring) using a spanner wrench.
3. Remove the objective ring (the notched ring located behind the retaining ring within the objective cell; this manages the motion of the forward lens) with a jeweler's straight slot screwdriver; this should free the objective cell (which is 1 1/2 to 2 inches long, depending on the power of the binoculars) so you can remove it as well.
4. Hold the objective cell in one hand and unscrew the objective bell housing from the front of the unit (this may also require the use of a strap wrench).
5. Repeat this process for the other scope.
Tags: objective cell, counterclockwise motion, field glasses, from front, guard ring, retaining ring
Soil pollution results from the build up of contaminants, toxic compounds, radioactive materials, salts, chemicals and cancer-causing agents. The most common soil pollutants are hydrocarbons, heavy metals (cadmium, lead, chromium, copper, zinc, mercury and arsenic), herbicides, pesticides, oils, tars, PCBs and dioxins.
Until the 1970s, there was little talk of soil pollution and its devastating effects. In the 1980s, the U.S. Superfund was created to set guidelines for the handling of hazardous material and soil contamination cleanup. Today there are more than 200,000 sites awaiting EPA soil cleanup, which is very expensive and labor-intensive work. Even a small cleanup project can cost $10,000, while larger areas require millions of dollars to clean it up for future use. Does this Spark an idea?
Causes of Soil Pollution
Following WWII and Vietnam, scientists discovered high incidences of mutation, miscarriage, mental defects, cancer and sickness in areas where nuclear warheads had been dropped. Food shortages also alerted officials that something was seriously wrong with the local soil. DDT and Dioxin were two of the worst pollutants from war aftermath.
In some cases, agricultural processes cause soil pollution. High levels of radionuclides like nitrogen and phosphorus can be found surrounding farm centers containing high population densities of livestock. Pesticides applied to plants can also seep into the ground, leaving lasting effects. Heavy metals can arrive in the soil by using polluted water to wet crops and by using mineral fertilizers.
Industry is to blame for some of the biggest soil-pollution disasters. Heavy metals come from iron, steel, power and chemical manufacturing plants that recklessly use the Earth as a dumping ground for their refuse. Plants that burn their waste on-site are guilty of releasing heavy metals into the atmosphere, which come to settle in the soil, thus leaving behind lasting effects for years to come. Even companies that try to dispose of their waste properly contribute to the problem when faulty landfills and bursting underground bins leach undesirable toxins into the soil.
Mining leaves a tremendous impact on the surrounding communities. The 2001 West Virginia Geological and Economic Survey found that people living near mines have a 70 percent higher risk of kidney disease, 64 percent higher risk for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and a 30 percent higher risk of high blood pressure. "People in coal-mining communities need better access to health care, cleaner air, cleaner water, and stricter enforcement of environmental standards," concluded Michael Hendryx, Ph.D., associate director of the WVU Institute for Health Policy Research.
Testing for Soil Pollution
Before purchasing land for development or inhabiting, it's important to have a soil test performed to ensure a sound investment. A soil test can reveal the presence of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, sulphur, calcium, magnesium, iron, manganese, copper, zinc, boron, molybdenum and aluminum. It can also analyze soil acidity, electrical conductivity, organic matter, moisture content, and identify dangerous soil contaminants like benzene, petroleum hydrocarbons, xylene and toulene. Even if the soil is in fine condition for planting, landowners can use their soil tests to make more informed decisions regarding fertilizers and crop growing. Most people call in a local professional to do the job, although stores like Home Depot and Lowe's are now selling do-it-yourself mail-in kits as well.
Case Studies of Soil Pollution
Love Canal is perhaps the most famous case study of soil pollution. In the snowy winter of 1976, chemical waste began to seep above ground in school playgrounds and communities in Niagara Falls, New York. The area suffered high incidences of stillborn births, miscarriages and birth defects. Officials soon realized that there were over 400 toxic substances in the air, water and soil -- many of them cancerous. As it turns out, the area had been used as a chemical dumping ground for more than 22,000 tons of toxic waste at the turn-of-the-century, when no one was aware of the hazardous impact it could have decades later.
Another one of the most infamous cases of soil pollution happened in Chernobyl, a small town in Russia. A nuclear power plant exploded in April of 1986, which caused a sevenfold increase in birth defects, a marked increase in cancer that was passed down to future generations, livestock death and mutation and tainted agriculture. It's estimated that 40 percent of Chernobyl is still uninhabitable due to radiation contamination that is ten times the normal level in some places.
Ethiopia is filled with both air and soil pollution. The worst area is in Somalia's Ayaha valley near Hargeysa. To boost their economy, many farmers began using chemical fertilizers and pesticides to increase productivity without understanding the full ramifications. Over their war-torn years, metal drums holding 14,200 liters of chemicals like fenitrothion, malathion, diazionon and durban were punctured. As a result, land pollution has caused widespread famine and sickness.
China is a nation that is developing rapidly -- perhaps faster than safety permits. "It is estimated that nationwide 12 million tons of grain are polluted each year by heavy metals that have found their way into soil," Zhou Shengxian, director of the State Environmental Protection Administration, announced in July 2006. "Direct economic losses exceed 20 billion yuan (about 2.5 billion U.S. dollars). Soil pollution has worsened. According to incomplete statistics, about 150 million mu (10 million hectares) of arable land in China has been polluted."
Impact of Soil Pollution
"When old factories are relocated, they just dismantle the houses, carry away the machines and nothing else is left to be done. The land that used to be a production site either is turned into farmland or real estate. Few understand that this land has become sick," explains Zhao Qiguo of the Chinese Academy of Sciences' Institute of Soil Science.
People living near polluted land have higher incidences of migraines, nausea, fatigue, miscarriage and skin disorders. Long-term effects of pollution include cancer, leukemia, reproductive disorders, kidney and liver damage, as well as central nervous system failure. Children often suffer from developmental problems and weakened immune systems.
In addition to direct health effects, soil pollution also harms plants that feed Americans. Chemicals can sometimes absorb into food like lettuce and be ingested. Other times, the pollutants simply kill the plants, which has created widespread crop destruction and famine in other parts of the world. The entire ecosystem changes when new materials are added to the soil, as microorganisms die off or move away from contaminants.
Predators who feed off the microorganisms and worms in the polluted soil will also be affected. Researchers found that some species of birds -- like the Peregrine Falcon, the Brown Pelican and the Bald Eagle -- fell prey to DDT poisoning, which caused egg shells of future generations to thin. Mother birds would arrive home to omelets in their nests, as the thin shells could not support the weight of the incubating offspring. Mortality rates increased, nearly sending the birds to extinction.
If nothing is done to clean up soil pollution, water supplies could become contaminated, threatening the human species. Sudden fires or explosions will occur from underground landfill gases, pipelines and building structures may corrode and once beautiful regions will turn into cesspools, experts warn.
Treatment of Soil Pollution
The conventional methods of soil pollution are very time-consuming and very costly. EPA officials excavate the soil to dispose of it elsewhere -- a band-aid for the problem, no doubt, but essential for toxic disasters in highly populated places. Soils can be aerated, heated up in a process called thermal remediation, contained with pavement or caps, extracted with an active electromechanical system or propagating the soil with microbes that will digest organic pollutants.
New processes are being developed to combat the problem in a natural, less laborious way. By studying plants that grew naturally in toxic mines, scientist Chen Tongbin discovered that certain plants loved to eat heavy metals like arsenic, bronze, lead, zinc, cobalt and cadmium. The contaminants can then be retrieved from the plant's leaves and used in industrial materials. This safe and effective method isn't perfect, but it's a start.
Prevention of Soil Pollution
Naturally, prevention is the best cure for soil pollution. Most states have enacted tougher legislation to stop illegal dumping. For instance, one can expect five years in jail and a fine of $100,000 for soil pollution in Texas.
Educating consumers about the dangers of littering, while encouraging recycling programs, is a good way to ensure everyone does their part to keep debris where it belongs. Consumers can also make a concerted effort to buy organic foods to demand that chemical pesticides aren't used on their foods.
People who grow their own food can keep excess nitrogen and phosphorus out of the soil by choosing crops that do not need as many nutrients from the soil, by applying fertilizer during the growing season to replenish the soil, by shortening the grazing season / cattle density, by using organic compost, by keeping the surface moist and mulched, and by choosing fruiting crops like tomatoes, squash, peas and corn. Gardens should be situated away from old painted buildings and roadways. Outer leaves of lettuce should be discarded and all vegetables should be washed before eating.
Over the years, stronger and more indestructible bins were created to store hazardous materials. Researchers will continue to look for ways to improve manufacturing and agricultural processes to avoid the need for toxic byproducts. Business leaders, miners and community officials will work together to reduce wastefulness and contaminants to keep the world a clean place for future generations.
Finding quality child care is essential for your child's development.
Child care can be incredibly expensive, and for many working parents, traditional day care and child-care centers are simply not affordable, especially for children who aren't yet in school while you're at work. But that doesn't mean you have to settle for poor quality child care. It may take some effort on your part, but you can find free or low-cost child care services, in both public settings and private, in-home centers.
Instructions
1. Use the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Child Care website (acf.hhs.gov) to find information on free and low-cost federally sponsored and state-sponsored child-care services in your area, as well as ways to get help paying for traditional child-care services.
2. Visit the Child Care Aware website (childcareaware.org/) to find low-cost child-care programs in your area. Child Care Aware is recommended by the Department of Health and Human Services as a trusted child care resource. Child Care Aware works with child-care agencies in 99 percent of the populated zip codes in the United States.
3. Team up with other parents you trust. While you may work a similar schedule as many other parents you know, you probably don't have the same schedule outside of work. Make a schedule with parents in your area to watch their kids when you're free and have them do the same for you. You can even form a larger group of parents in your neighborhood. Having other parents you can call to watch your kids is beneficial for most parents.
4. Find caregivers that can do double-duty with your children. Look for a qualified babysitter that can also give your child piano lessons or help them with their math homework, whatever secondary qualification is important to you. You would spend twice as much on a babysitter and piano teacher plus a caregiver, so finding a caregiver that can multi-task will save you a considerable amount of money in the long run.
5. Talk with your employer. Many companies offer child care for their employees for little or no cost as part of their benefits package. Some companies may require you to work for them for a certain amount of time before you can take advantage of company-sponsored child-care programs.
6. Locate your community's Head Start center (eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov). Head Start centers were set up to help young children develop basic learning skills in a safe, nurturing environment. Contact your local Head Start center or call their toll-free number, 1-866-763-6481, to see if your family qualifies for the program.
Tags: Care Aware, child care, Child Care Aware, Head Start, other parents, your area, Child Care
If you have customized the picture and menu settings on your Samsung TV only to find that they keep reverting back to their default positions, this is because your unit is in what is referred to as "Shop Mode." This is the demonstration mode used by electronic retailers to show potential buyers all the features a Samsung television supports. Press the "Info" button on your remote control, and if under the "Picture Mode" heading it reads "Shop Mode," hold down the "Menu" button on the TV itself until the screen reads "Dynamic Mode." This has changed the picture mode to one of the pre-set positions. You may now change any settings you'd like.
Digital Audio
If you have a device plugged into your digital audio output on your TV but you cannot hear any sound, it is probably due to the output being disabled. When you plug a device into any of the HDMI outputs on the TV, the set automatically disables the digital audio output. Unfortunately there is nothing you can do to change this. You will need to plug the device you were trying to plug into the digital audio output into some other kind of available output, preferably HDMI for quality reasons.
Picture in Picture
If you are attempting to use the "Picture in Picture" feature on your Samsung TV only to find that it isn't working, it is because you have a digital cable service. Digital channels are unable to utilize the "Picture in Picture" feature due to the way the tuner on the inside of the TV is configured. Only analog television signals (either broadcast or basic cable) can utilize the "Picture in Picture" feature.
Tags: Picture Picture, audio output, digital audio output, Picture feature, Picture Picture feature, digital audio, find that
One of the most important parts of daily life is your vehicle. It gets you to work or school, to the grocery store, the bank and back home. When there's a problem with it, you want to make sure that the people who fix it know what they are doing. Read on to learn pick an auto repair shop.
Instructions
1. Get referrals from family, friends and co-workers. Check the local Better Business Bureau for information on complaints filed, how many (if any) and the shop's record of resolving problems.
2. Visit the shop. Observe the cleanliness, lighting, organization and the condition of the equipment.
3. Investigate the mechanics' certification. Ask if they are certified and in what area. Mechanics may be certified by a car manufacturer or a general organization such as the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Look for a mechanic with valid credentials, proper training and experience working on your car model. Know if they are qualified to do different types of services such as electrical and brake systems. Some auto repair workers are only qualified to do oil changes.
4. Inquire about the types of customer service benefits the shop provides. Some may offer rental cars onsite, loaner cars or a shuttle to and from work while your car is being repaired. Ask if they have evening and weekend hours.
5. Pick a repair shop authorized to perform repairs under your warranty, if your car has one.
6. Establish a working relationship with the repair shop. The best time to pick a shop is before you need one. Preventive maintenance is less costly than repairing a major malfunction. Start with something "small" like an oil change or a check-up on one of your car's systems. Some shops offer free brake checks or free air conditioning system checks.
7. Compare pricing for general services such as brakes, air conditioning checks and tune-ups. These fees can vary widely, but they will give you an idea of whether the shop you're considering falls in the average price range. Consider chains as well as independently owned shops. Request references from satisfied customers.
N.C. landlords are required to provide adequate heat to all living areas.
It may be difficult to think about legal matters when you are freezing under a pile of blankets in an apartment with no heat. Make sure you know the laws about landlord responsibilities before signing a lease, if you are a renter. It can save you from a heated battle when the furnace fails. North Carolina has specific laws that require landlords to properly equip and maintain heating units in rental dwellings.
Tenant Protection
North Carolina's landlord-tenant laws describe the specific duties of the property owner and the occupant. The laws are collectively known as the Residential Rental Agreement Act, enacted in 1977. Landlords are required to maintain property so that it is "fit and habitable," and it must be in that shape at the time the lease begins.
Compliance With Building Codes
Perhaps the most helpful part of the Residential Rental Agreement Act in terms of keeping an apartment warm in winter is the provision that a landlord comply with all local building and housing codes. For example, the housing code for Forsyth County, in northwest North Carolina, states that every dwelling must have heat capable of warming every room, including bathrooms, "to a temperature of at least 70 degrees Fahrenheit at a distance of 3 feet above floor when temperature is 20 degrees Fahrenheit outside." Some municipalities rely on the state building codes as the standard. One relevant part of the N.C. building code states: "Interior spaces intended for human occupancy shall be provided with space-heating systems capable of maintaining a minimum indoor temperature of 68 degrees F." These temperatures guidelines may help a renter who lives in a dwelling with a substandard heating system that the landlord insists is working.
Getting Help
The bonus about the reference to local building codes is that it gives tenants an extra ally. If the heat is not working, a tenant can ask the local housing inspectors to check for compliance. Code-enforcement supervisors can force the landlord to make repairs and issue civil fines if the landlord does not cooperate. Local housing or health departments usually handle code enforcement.
Repairs
Except in cases of emergency, tenants must report items that need repair to the landlord in writing. An example of an emergency is loss of heat during the winter. If the landlord does not make repairs, or is slow to make repairs, a tenant can take the landlord to small claims court to ask for a reduction in rent or a refund of rent paid, to compensate for the loss of heat or for the cost of repairs. Tenants can also ask for landlords to pay for items damaged by lack of heating. North Carolina law does not allow tenants to withhold rent without the consent of a court judge.
Tags: North Carolina, make repairs, building codes, degrees Fahrenheit, landlord does
The Petoskey stone derives its name from the city of Petoskey, Michigan, where it is found. These fascinating fossils are actually a type of colony coral. The chambers in the complex pattern of the Petoskey stone were once individual organisms called polyps. These fossils are now most commonly found near Little Traverse Bay in Petoskey, but glaciers once carried them from the rock beds near the bay across the state. Stones collected from the shore may have a more polished texture and appearance due to exposure to water and sand, while stones collected further inland will be less refined. If you have collected a Petoskey stone, you can polish it to a high shine at home with these steps.
Instructions
1. Sand the Petoskey stone with 220-grit sandpaper until it is smooth and free of scratches.
2. Rinse and dry the stone well to remove the residue from sanding.
3. Sand the stone again with 400-grit sandpaper.
4. Rinse and dry the stone again, checking for smoothness.
5. Sand once more with 600-grit sandpaper. This is the final sanding so the stone should be completely smooth now.
6. Rinse and dry the stone once more. If you see any scratches or rough spots on the stone at this point, you need to go back to Step 1 and do it all again, so be thorough the first time.
7. Sprinkle polishing powder onto a piece of velvet or corduroy cloth and rub the stone all over while you rotate it in your hands to polish it.
8. Rinse and dry the Petoskey stone a final time.
Tags: Petoskey stone, Rinse stone, once more, Petoskie Stones, Petoskie Stones Home
If you want to sell your house, you will need to get it ready to put on the market. Many homes only need minor adjustments or repairs before they can be sold. Follow these steps to fix up your house for selling.
Instructions
Exterior Home Fixes
1. Paint the exterior of your house. If your home is looking a little drab or tired, spruce it up by painting the outside of the house in the same color or one a little brighter. If the house does not need to be painted, then consider pressure-washing it, which will be much cheaper. This is also the time to replace pieces of siding that are breaking or worn through if paint will not make it look better.
2. Closely check out the roof and gutters. Replace any shingles that are missing, torn or broken. Broken shingles can make it seem as if your entire house is in a state of disrepair. Remove the gutters and clean out any debris. Make sure that all of the downspouts are in good condition.
3. Plant seasonal flowers outside. This adds a little color to the outside of the house and is a cheap way to instantly make a home appeared well-cared for. You can add window boxes with flowers, plant flowers in the yard and put large plants on the porch. Make certain that your lawn in always mowed and that any bushes are trimmed back to a reasonable length. This is also the time to have a tree service remove any dead trees.
4. Pay attention to the windows. Clean the windows until they sparkle. Fix any window panes that are broken and replace any shutters that are falling or missing.
5. Fix any fences or gates. Fix any broken parts of the fence and replace any posts that are wobbly. Remove any rusted or unusable parts or toys such as swing sets.
Interior Home Fixes
6. Check your floors. Have all of your carpets professionally cleaned and replace any carpet that doesn't come clean. Clean and buff wood floors until they shine. Place rugs down on any trouble spots on wood floors that cannot be repaired. Place carpet runners in the heavily trafficked areas.
7. Add some paint. Paint any rooms that need to be refreshed or that have non-traditional or non-neutral colors. Neutral colors tend to make rooms appear larger. Off-beat colors tend to scare buyers away, because of the work they may have to do to fix a paint job that they do not like.
8. Replace light bulbs. Use higher-wattage light bulbs throughout the house. The brighter a room is lit, the larger it appears. Consider adding lamps or lighting to rooms that are poorly lit. A small investment in lighting can have large returns from buyers.
9. De-personalize the house. Buyers want to be able to visualize themselves living in a house. This is hard to do with pictures of someone else's family, so remove all personal pictures and excessive knickknacks.
10. Clear the clutter. No one wants to see your stacks of mail from the past few weeks or all of the toys that your kids have. Neatly straighten all counter piles and place magazines in a rack. Keep all counters as clear as possible, as this makes your house appear larger.
11. Clean the house. This is something that a lot of people forget to do, but deep cleaning the house is vital to attracting potential buyers. This entails cleaning the baseboards, dusting the entire house from top to bottom, vacuuming/mopping all floors and just generally making everything shine.
12. Stage your dining room. Lay down a tablecloth and set the table for four people. Use glassware, candles and a centerpiece. This sets an alluring scene to potential buyers.
13. Make all of the beds and replace any old linen. Buy throw pillow to create a comfortable-looking bedroom for potential buyers. Bedrooms should have softer lighting and looked lived in or romantic.
14. Pay close attention to the kitchen. Paint the cabinets if needed for a fresh look. Clear excessive appliances off of the counters and store them. Place bowls of fresh fruit and fresh flowers out on the counters. Add cabinet hardware if needed to change the look of outdated cabinets.
15. Replace or clean any bathroom hardware. Thoroughly clean the grout. Buy a white shower curtain to really open up the bathroom and neutralize any other colors. Remove all clutter. Light a scented candle and install a fan if one is not present.
Garages and Basements
16. Invest in some shelving for the basement. Basements tend to collect junk, and having shelves will give you a place to store everything.
17.Clean any machines such as the air-conditioning unit, hot-water heater and furnace. This will make these items look newer and well-maintained.
18. Stage any basement rooms that look makeshift. If you have a TV and couch in the basement, use curtains to create "walls" and complete the look of a room. Add an end table and coffee table to make it look lived in and more like a room in your home.
19. Clean the garage floor. Consider painting it if regular cleaning doesn't remove all the spots. Make sure that the garage door is clean and spotless. Invest in a garage-door opener if there is not already one present.
20. Add hooks on the walls of your garage to place bikes, toys and sports equipment. Add storage units to the ceiling that can be lowered for easy access if needed.
Tags: your house, potential buyers, rooms that, also time, appear larger, colors tend, entire house
Two-car garages must rest on solid concrete floors.
A garage adds value to a home and protects vehicles, especially in regions of the United States with harsh climates. A key component is a concrete slab floor, which must be durable enough to withstand the weight of one or more cars, their passengers, stored items and equipment used in workshop areas. The concrete's cost per square foot depends on location and coatings. Does this Spark an idea?
Breakdown
Concrete construction, such as for garage slab floors, has many steps and components. According to ConcreteNetwork.com, the breakdown of costs at the time of publication was as follows: Grading flattens the ground for the concrete and costs $50 per hour. The sub-base -- the sand or gravel on which the concrete rests -- costs about $12 per cubic yard. Setting up concrete forms and finishing the concrete costs $1 to $1.50 per square foot. Finally, reinforcement prevents cracking through the addition of wire mesh, rebar, plastic mess or fiber to the mix. This costs about 10 cents per square foot. As for the cost of concrete, the national average price in 2008 was $75 per cubic yard.
Cost
The cost of a plain concrete garage floor runs between $2.50 to $4.50 per square foot depending on size and complexity, according to ConcreteNetwork.com. This does not include any decorative finishes such as stamping, staining or epoxy. A minimum one-car garage measures 12 feet wide by 22 feet long for a total of 264 square feet. A slab for this would run $660 to $1,188 total. A minimum two-car garage runs 18 feet wide by 22-feet long for a total of 396 feet. The slab for this runs $990 to $4,455. Note that these are minimums. Many homeowners choose far larger spaces for their garages.
Coating
Coatings add decorative finishes to concrete garage floors and increase its usability. Simple concrete paint, with about two coats, lasts about a year and costs from 75 cents to $2.25 per square foot. Residential grade epoxy paint lasts two to five years and runs $1 to $2.25 per square foot. Solid epoxy requires the services of professional installers but can last many years. It costs $1.50 to $3 per square foot. Color flake lasts up to 15 years and costs from $3.50 to $5.50 per square foot. All prices are from the Concrete Ideas website at the time of publication.
Labor
Homeowners can save money on a concrete garage floor by pouring their own. But the job is so complex that most people call in professionals to perform it. Labor costs for concrete masons vary across the country, with an average of $18.89 per hour, according U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics as of May 2010. The highest labor costs are in Alaska at $31.37 per hour, Hawaii at $29.21 per hour and New York at $27.52 per hour. Wages are below average in South Dakota at $14.20 per hour, Nebraska at $15.27 and North Dakota at $16.37 per hour. Note that these are not the hourly costs for building a concrete garage floor, but a relative comparison of labor costs across the country.
Slippery decks can be a hazard at any time of year, but winter weather can aggravate an already dangerous situation. Often the stairs leading up to a deck provide an emergency entrance and exit to the home and must be kept accessible for safety reasons. Homes that have been subdivided into apartments often use a deck for sole and separate tenant access. Whatever the situation, safe footing on a deck and the stairs leading to or from it is highly essential. Does this Spark an idea?
Surface Issues
A winter deck may become slick as a result of precipitation that has not been adequately swept from the surface. All decks should have a slight slope to allow for moisture runoff and must be kept clear of snow and ice. Autumn is a good time to thoroughly sweep or power wash your deck to remove any dirt, debris or algae that can turn a winter rain or snowstorm into an accident just waiting to happen.
Winter Maintenance
Keeping your deck cleared of snow will allow the sun to melt underlying ice and allow the melt-water to run safely through the spaces between your deck boards or be pulled harmlessly by gravity to the ground below. Using salt to melt snow and ice on a deck is not an advisable practice as it can damage your decking material and negatively impact the vegetation planted nearby. Look for salt-free products that provide an environmentally-safe way to gain safe winter footing in icy conditions.
A Stairway Solution
The ease with which a homeowner or tenant can slip on a slippery set of deck stairs necessitates special care. A hardware store or your local home center is a good place to look for self-adhesive, non-slip traction treads that you can easily install yourself to the stairs of your deck. A nasty fall may be easily prevented by applying two or three strips of the peel-and-stick product parallel to the leading edge of each stair tread.
Anti-slip Wood Coating
For larger surfaces like the deck flooring, there is an anti-slip coating that you can apply to the wood. This substance has an acrylic-based formula that allows surface water evaporation while impeding the damaging effects of moisture penetration into the wooden surface. The coating dries in three to five hours between coats and your deck is ready for next-day use. The sealant may be safely applied over paint and stain to form a safe, slip-free base to help guard against adverse winter weather conditions.
Tags: your deck, deck stairs, must kept, stairs leading, winter weather
Non-profit organizations help families in Detroit and all over Michigan.
No matter whether the economy is up or down, there are always people who need a little extra assistance with payments, including utilities. In Detroit, several organizations assist people who have outstanding utility bills. Utility bill assistance helps people avoid getting their heat, electric or other necessary utilities shut off because of non-payment.
The Heat and Warmth Fund
The Heat and Warmth Fund (THAW) helps low-income households all over Michigan pay their utility bills. In 2009-2010, THAW gave more than $7.4 million in assistance to 8,700 families across Michigan. Detroit residents needing help paying utility bills can receive money from THAW if they fulfill several requirements, including a shut-off notice, immediate need for heating fuel and have a residential account in their name.
The Heat and Warmth Fund
607 Shelby St., Suite 400
Detroit, MI 48226
800-866-8429
thawfund.org
The Salvation Army People Care
Created by a partnership between The Salvation Army and Consumers Energy, the People Care Program provides energy bill assistance to Michigan residents along with food, shelter, transportation and clothing. Money comes from donations made by Consumers Energy employers and customers, according to Consumers Energy. Need is determined by the Salvation Army on a case-by-case basis. Since its beginning in 1983, the People Care Program has given over $40 million to needy families.
Salvation Army Southeast Michigan/Detroit
1627 West Fort St.
Detroit, MI 48216
313-965-7760
usc.salvationarmy.org
LIHEAP Home Heating Credit
The Home Heating Credit comes from federal money and is administered by the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and the Michigan Department of Human Services. As the Michigan Department of Human Services website states, the Michigan Treasury Department determines eligibility for the Home Heating Credit based on income, number of exemptions and heating costs. Detroit households wanting to apply for the Home Heating Credit can apply from January to September.
Michigan Department of Human Services
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program
P. O. Box 30025
Lansing, MI 48090
1-800-292-5650
michigan.gov
LIHEAP State Emergency Relief
LIHEAP also sponsors the State Emergency Relief program, another assistance program administered directly by the Michigan Department of Human Services. The program provides payment assistance for fuel and electricity costs, along with home repairs, states the Michigan Department of Human Services. Eligibility is determined by immediate need, income and assets, and is available to all Michigan residents.
Michigan Department of Human Services
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program
P. O. Box 30025
Lansing, MI 48090
1-800-292-5650
michigan.gov
Tags: Department Human, Department Human Services, Human Services, Michigan Department, Michigan Department Human, Heating Credit
You read the advertisements on infomercials and see the pop-up ads all the time on the Internet. "Get a home improvement grant!" the advertisements and commercials shout. It may seem like a bunch of snake oil, but there is a kernel of truth in these ads: you can get home improvement grants. Whether you need to have your home's exterior painted or want a new, more efficient wood stove, you can find grant programs for home improvement issues. Not everyone qualifies, and not every part of the country offers home improvement grants, but they do exist. From veterans nationwide to residents of the City of Boston, find out get a grant for home improvement and find such grants online and offline.
Instructions
Find a Grant for Home Improvement
1. Start by going to your town hall/city clerk's office or checking your municipal website and asking about home improvement grants and income-based discounts on home-related bills. For instance, the town of Framingham, Massachusetts offers 25% off water and sewer bills to senior citizens who are lower income. The City of Boston offers up to $4,000 for home exterior painting. You can't know about these programs if you don't ask.
2. Search on the Internet for veteran's assistance programs if you, or your parents or children, and veterans. The Veteran's Affairs administration offers home improvement grants for disabled veterans for up to $50,000.
3. Call your state Department of Energy and ask for a list of rebate and incentive programs for home improvements related to reducing energy costs. Buying a new appliance, replacing windows, installing solar or wind power -- many states provide grants for these home improvements.
4. Contact your gas and electric companies to learn about rebate and grant programs for home improvement. You may qualify for a free energy audit, designed to help lower your gas and electric bills. Reducing energy costs and the energy load on the system is important to most electric companies, and rebates and program reflect this goal.
5. Get a free or reduced-cost new wood stove. Go to the Wood Stove Changeout Campaign and learn how your community can participate in this grant program for home improvement.
Tags: home improvement, home improvement grants, improvement grants, home improvement, offers home, programs home
Buyers considering a property with foundation problems can sometimes feel nervous about making a purchase of that magnitude with such an obvious defect. However, purchasing a property with foundation problems can be much simpler than a buyer might initially realize. Does this Spark an idea?
Independent Inspection
Getting an independent inspection of any property is crucial and even more important when foundation problems are evident. If a seller has disclosed previous foundation problems in writing, a buyer should consider hiring a structural engineer to get a thorough picture of the spectrum of the damage. This is important whether the damage is repaired or even if it is not. If foundation problems are uncovered during the inspection process, at that point a buyer should immediately contact a structural engineer. The cost of a structural engineer will range from $300 to $500.
Repaired or Unrepaired
Properties that have had foundation repairs completed should have a foundation repair report in addition to a warranty from the contractor that performed the repairs. This will justify a seller's asking price. Properties that have uncovered foundation problems should account for that in the asking price, and be less than comparable nearby properties without foundation problems. Buyers can offer to finance a higher asking price if the contract is written in such a way that allows the buyer to receive compensation for foundation repairs at closing, providing that sales price is commensurate with the appraised value.
Offer Strategies
Any property defect can have an effect on perceived value. When making an offer on a property that has either had foundation repair or is in need of foundation repair, the buyer should make certain that all of the contract language is in his favor if the property has additional damage or is not repaired prior to closing. This can be accomplished with the assistance of a professional real estate agent and a real estate attorney.
Tags: foundation problems, asking price, buyer should, foundation repair, structural engineer
Construction can range from building a deck, repairing or replacing a roof, building an outdoor patio to remodeling a bathroom/bedroom/living or dining room. Many of these projects are tackled by do-it-yourselfers when they find out the costs associated with hiring contractors. Even if you plan to do the repairs yourself, you need to formulate a budget before beginning construction. Estimating the costs involves contacting several informed sources. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Money flies away quickly; estimate construction repairs beforehand!
Devise a game plan and budget. Which areas of your home do you want to repair? Before you begin to estimate the costs, determine how much you have in your budget to spend. Make a list, and check it twice to determine which repairs are most pressing. Consider your top priorities, and begin with them.
2. Contact reliable sources.
Contact several sources. Gathering estimates from several contractors is a good place to start. You can check with your local real estate offices for a list of reputable contractors, many of whom will render free estimates. Alternatively, you can search online for a contractor in your state.
3. Consider a makeover for the rest(ful) rooms.
Determine the cost. With your collection of estimates and detailed reports from the contractors, review the list to determine which of the repairs you can do yourself. Compile your own estimate, and do not forget to add in the value of your own time and energy to perform the work. Compare your estimate with those of the contractors. For help in estimating the cost, you can visit the Old House Web online.
4. Living/dining areas may be more comfortable with upgraded heating or cooling systems.
Think efficiently. The federal government offers incentives for including such upgrades as energy-efficient windows, heating/cooling systems and appliances. You can visit the U.S. Department of Energy website for additional information regarding the improvement tax credits and incentives available to consumers.
5. Create curb appeal, and increase the value and energy efficiency of your home.
Look outside. There are important construction repairs that will improve the curb appeal of your home. Even building a deck can add thousands of dollars to the appraisal of your home. According to home improvement TV show host Bob Vila, landscaping "can add 20 percent to the value of your property and save up to 25 percent in heating and cooling costs." Many of the projects can be done yourself if you contact a certified arborist. Your local cooperative extension office can help locate one near you.
Tags: your home, heating cooling, building deck, construction repairs, cooling systems
People and groups in rural North Carolina may be eligible for USDA grants.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) oversees community development grants for rural areas. These grants are administered at the state level and, in North Carolina, the grants are coordinated out of Raleigh. Most grant opportunities are open to recognized groups such as Indian tribes and non-profit organizations, but there is also some grant money available to people in small, poor communities.
Economic Development
People and groups who want to start businesses that create jobs in a rural area or boost the local economy may be eligible for a USDA economic development grant. An applicant must be able to match 20 percent of the grant funding up-front. Grants are also available for farmers and agricultural cooperatives to help determine whether developing value-added products would benefit the local economy. An example of a value-added product is peanuts that have been turned into peanut butter rather than sold raw in bags.
Housing
USDA grants are available for both single-family and multi-family housing in North Carolina. A resident of a rural community of 10,000 people or less who is at least 62 years old and deemed unable to repay a loan may be eligible for a grant of up to $7,500 to make repairs on an existing home. The applicant must have income that is half or less of the county's median income. Farmers and organizations who would like to provide rental housing for farm workers can apply for farm labor housing grants to build or repair shelter.
Utilities
USDA rural development grants are available for small governments and Indian tribes to institute projects such as water treatment and waste disposal and to set up networks for distance learning and telecommunications for institutions such as hospitals and rural schools.
Tags: North Carolina, applicant must, eligible USDA, grants available, Indian tribes, local economy, People groups