A Rodent Checklist For Your Home

Pest Control

What to look for in a rat control professional

When you find out your home or business has a rat infestation, the best thing to do is get rid of it as quickly as possible. There are a lot of DIY methods on the market, of course, but missing a couple of rats can lead to a full re-infestation. This is why hiring an experienced rat exterminator who can offer comprehensive rat control and prevention is so crucial

What do you do to find the best pest control company to get rid of rats and prevent them from coming back? There are a number of things to consider before making the right choice for your home and business, but what are they?

In this article, Ehrlich takes a look at the key things to consider when choosing a rat exterminator. However, if you think you have already seen the signs of a rat infestation around your property, contact your local Ehrlich Pest Control office right away to discuss our rat removal and prevention methods.

Licensing and certification

It takes special skill to be a qualified and certified pest control specialist. If you want to hire a pest control company to get rid of rats or any other pest problem, ask them about their certification and licensing. States, counties, cities require rat control companies to be licensed for a wide variety of pest control services, including rats. The company should have these licenses and be willing to show them to you.

Experience in rat control

Being an effective rat exterminator means a lot more than just showing up and spraying chemicals or setting a bunch of random traps and bait boxes. It takes a certain professionalism and understanding of the way a building is structured, where the rats are more likely to be hiding, and where the rat control treatment is most likely to be effective. This knowledge takes years of experience to develop. Ask the rat control company how long they’ve been in the business, and how long they’ve been getting rid of rats specifically.

Treatment options available

What treatment options are available from the pest control company to get rid of the rats? A qualified and top-notch rat exterminator will listen to your needs and understand the causes of the infestation. A qualified rat control professional will take your pets and children into consideration to provide the best possible solution. Follow up treatments will likely be necessary, so be sure to discuss these as well.

HOW TO PICK A GOOD RODENT CONTROL COMPANY

There’s no easy way to know if a company is truly a good rodent control company unless you are willing to do a little research and legwork on your end. We recommend starting your search online. You can use Google to search for companies in your area then look at their reviews. We suggest looking for a good rodent control company based on the reviews and comments on those reviews. Look for one that has many reviews, not just a few. You can also look at Yahoo and Angie’s List. Both of these online companies allow customers to leave reviews of the services used. Next, talk to neighbors and co-workers. They’ll be more than willing to share their good and bad experiences with you.

When it comes to rodent control, there is no one size fits all. Each home is different even if they were built at the same time. So then what should you look for when picking a good rodent control company?

Someone with construction knowledge: Having a professional who understands construction and how homes are built from the ground up gives an edge in knowing where there may be gaps the rodents are using to enter into your home or business.

A full-service company: A full-service company provides a specialist to come out to your home and inspect your property not just give you an estimate over the phone. This is extremely important as you cannot give an accurate estimate without seeing the property. Each property is different, each rodent issue is different and the difference is not something known until an inspection is done.

FREE Inspections: You should not be charged to have your property looked at to decide the best way to control rodents. A good rodent control company will look in the attic, crawl space, basement, and go around the exterior of the home.

Rodent Control

The word rodent means to “to gnaw.” We will mostly be reviewing the type of rodent called “commensal rodent.” The word commensal means “sharing one’s table.” The three types of commensal rodents are the House Mouse, the Norway Rat, and the Roof Rat. These rodents carry diseases and eat and contaminate our food. These rodents co-exist with humans and closely associate with human habitats for food, water, and shelter. If living conditions for the rodents (food, water, and shelter), are right, they can multiply quickly. In your rodent control program, the essential first step is to eliminate or control their food, water and shelter provisions. After this first step, use the methods of trapping and baiting to get rid of the rodent population. Other types of rodents, such as the white-footed mouse, deer mouse, harvest mouse, pocket mouse, or pack rats may enter buildings, particularly if they are near wooded areas or fields.

Size Difference Between Mice and Rats

Rats are larger than mice, with correspondingly larger heads and feet. Rats also have coarser fur than mice. Mice are curious, while the rat is cautious. You will find Norway rats in burrows and the lower levels of a structure, while Roof rats prefer the upper levels of structures. Inspecting the rodent activity is essential. Use a flashlight to inspect their particular activity. Look for their “droppings”, rodent tracks, gnawing damage, burrows, runways, urine stains, rub/grease marks, and any other sitings of dead or live rodents. They also make screeching sounds, digging, or scratching sounds. If an infestation is well established, you may be able to detect a rodent odor.

To successfully get rid of mice and rats, it is critical to determine which type of rodent you have for effective control. For example, choosing the correct size trap is critical. A mouse trap would be too small for a rat, and a rat trap may not be sensitive enough to catch mice

Behavior Difference Between Mice And Rats

Since rodents are dependent on their environment, it may be difficult to describe typical behavior and habits. But there are generalizations of their habits for practical purposes of rodent control around and inside buildings. For further information, go to “About Rats”, or “About Mice”.

Rats:

Rats tend to eat most of their food at one time.

Rats are excellent swimmers and can swim up to 1/2 mile in open water and go through sewer lines.

Norway rats prefer food with high carbohydrate and protein content, although they eat almost any types of food.

Roof rats prefer to eat grains, fruit, sweets and peanut butter and nut butter but will eat what is available in their environment. They are “picky” eaters, due to their natural suspicion of new items in their environment. Roof rats do not readily accept meat or fish.

Rats tend to be cautious and with new objects. Since they are cautious of new elements in their environment, it may helpful to set unset rat traps

Rats cannot survive long with without water, while mice may survive longer.

Norway rats are not often found indoors, they typically nest outside in burrows. A young norway rat may be mistaken for a mouse. The young norway rat has a rounder body than the slender house mouse.

Roof rats like habitat in attics and trees. They may enter your home with a power line or a tree. Like mice, the roof rat is an excellent climber. The larger norway rat is not as agile as the roof rat or mouse. Since roof rats are often found in the upper levels, they may be undetected for a while.

A norway or roof rat will move within a diameter of 98 to 164 ft. and a house mouse, 10 to 33 ft. If conditions are unstable or there are changes such as new building, they may expand the diameter. They may also expand their range in protected areas such as in sewers, in passages between buildings, and under groundcovers.

Roof rats and norway rats are both opportunistic and will eat almost anything that is available.

Mice:

Mice will nibble a little at a time. If food is plentiful, they may make 20-30 visits to their food source at night. They feed heaviest at dawn or dusk. Mice prefer grains and seeds, but may eat meats, peanut butter, and sweet items.

Mice are curious about new objects, so it is easier place new traps or bait placements in their habitat or running space. It is easier to trap mice than rats.

A mouse may spend its entire life in a building in an urban/city setting. In rural/surbuban settings, they can be found both inside and outside among foundations, shrubs, below structures, or in ground burrows. Once inside, they may establish their nests close to a food source. Common inside nesting sites include within appliances, in walls, closets, cabinet and ceiling voids, storage boxes. Mice make their nests with soft material that has been chewed up from paper, insulation, furniture stuffing, etc.

Mice constantly explore their territory. They investigate any changes due to their curisosity. Their average territory ranges between 10-30 feet, but mice readily adapt to their environment. They nest close to food sources. Their territory is less when they have abundant food sources close to their nests.

Rodent Control Strategies

Use exclusion and sanitation tactics to get rid of rodents in a safe and cost-effective way. The most effective long-term solution is to keep rodents out in the first place. Measures such as sealing entry points prevent rodents from entering buildings and help you avoid a full-scale invasion.

Rats and mice are not only a nuisance but can also cause property damage and transmit diseases. You’ll know they’ve arrived if you see rodent droppings near a food source or shredded fabric or paper. If you identify rodents, there are several steps to take to ensure permanent removal of these pests.

Removing rodents with traps or poisons will not keep rodents out of your home in the future. To permanently keep rats and mice out of your home or business, you will need to prevent access by sealing all possible entry points. It is equally important to eliminate rodent attractions such as food and water by keeping food in tightly sealed containers and repairing leaky pipes

Once you have blocked the access points and removed sources of food and water, you’ll need to eliminate the remaining rodents. The following sections offer an overview of different treatment options and serve as useful guidance for keeping your home or business permanently free of rats and mice

Promote Natural Predators

Natural predators such as snakes, hawks, and owls can help to control rodent populations by feeding on rats and mice. Barn owls are efficient hunters and a family of barn owls can eat as many as 3000 mice per year. To encourage barn owls to nest and stay in your area, consider installing a nesting box. Strategic placement of nesting boxes combined with the use of traps and other preventative measures will go a long way to managing your rodent problems.

How to Choose A Rodent Removal Company

So you’ve got rats in your attic… now what? If you’re dealing with a rodent infestation, time is of the essence. You’ll want to call a professional rodent removal company right away to remove any lingering rodents, protect your family’s health and prevent lasting damage to your home.

Understand Your Options.

There are two main types of rodent removal company out there – extermination companies and rodent proofing companies. Understanding what both types of companies really offer is crucial to deciding which company you’ll call.

Exterminators – Extermination companies focus specifically on killing live rodents and other pests. Companies advertising general pest control, that place emphasis on trapping and poisoning services are usually extermination companies. These companies will use things like rodent trapping and poisoning to control the rodent population in your home. If you plan on using an extermination company be sure to ask them about what kinds of poisons they may be used in your home as these can be harmful to pets and small children. Also ask them about discounts on ongoing service contracts as well, as rodents breed quickly and a single extermination session is unlikely to eliminate a rodent infestation permanently.

Rodent Proofing – Rodent proofing companies focus on sealing up entry points in your home to eliminate rodent infestations permanently. These companies are often made up of construction and cleaning specialists rather than traditional pest control specialists. Rodent proofing is a complex process, but is usually performed without the use of dangerous poisons or traps, which is ideal for people with curious pets or small children. Be sure to ask if they offer cleaning services as well as you will want to have the infested area thoroughly decontaminated after all rodent entry points have been sealed.

Choose A Company With A Guarantee.

It is crucial to work with a rodent removal company that guarantees their services and really stands behind their work. That way, if anything goes wrong or your home becomes reinfested you’ll be able to rest easy knowing that the company that did the work is also willing to take full responsibility for any mistakes and fix them promptly

Wedding Dj To Make Your Big Day Special

Events

All the Things Your Wedding DJ Can Do (Besides Play Music)

Your wedding DJ will play a vital role on your big day—and it’s actually more than just playing music to fill the dance floor. In fact, a wedding DJ has many jobs to do, some of which you’ll see, others that are more under-the-radar. That’s why hiring a well-reviewed professional is totally worth it (meaning, creating a Spotify playlist, plugging your iPhone into some speakers, and calling it a day really won’t cut it).

Here are the things you probably didn’t know your rockstar wedding DJ can do—aside from playing major tuneage, that is.

Helps enforce the day-of timeline 

While your wedding planner and/or venue will likely take the lead on creating your wedding-day timeline, an experienced DJ will certainly contribute, since he/she knows how long certain parts of the reception will take. What’s more, your wedding DJ is responsible for executing and enforcing the timeline during your reception, making announcements to ensure that events occur on time and if there are any hold-ups, adjusting accordingly.

Provides sound equipment

Having high-quality, working sound equipment is an absolute must—and your wedding DJ will have that all covered. Without microphones, speakers, and the like, your guests won’t be able to hear your first introduction as a married couple, the lyrics to your first-dance song, your best man’s toast, the announcement that dinner is being served, or that the last dance is being played.

(May) supply lighting

While we do recommend hiring a company that specializes in lighting for more extensive needs, many wedding DJs offer uplighting as part of their services. Uplighting consists of smaller lighting systems that can be placed on the floor and aim light upwards to highlight your tables and dance floor. Talk to your wedding DJ to see if this is something that can be included in your package, or if you’re better suited to hire a professional lighting company.

Makes sure all equipment is working

There are few things more annoying during a wedding reception than music that’s too loud, too soft, or muffled, or worst-case scenario, dead air due to malfunctioning equipment. Not only do experienced wedding DJs utilize top-of-the-line, state-of-the-art equipment, they also do sound checks at your venue well before the reception begins to ensure that everything is working properly so there won’t be any awkward silences.

Tips for Hiring an Awesome Wedding DJ

Unlike a live band, a DJ can play the actual recordings that your guests love and crossfade them so there’s no awkward silence between songs. Which DJ you hire will depend in great part on what kind of music you want and what your guests will be excited to hear. If you want a dance party, you’ll find plenty of DJs who can give you one. You can also find DJs who will customize a playlist for you, whatever your tastes. Here are some tips to keep in mind when hiring a wedding DJ.

  1. Don’t automatically go with someone you know. You may have a cousin, friend, or acquaintance who is a DJ, so you feel like you should choose them for your wedding. Maybe you should and maybe you should not; let their qualifications, not your relationship, be the determining factor. If you do choose to go with someone you know, don’t keep things casual- make sure that you are in a contract that specifically spells out your obligations and theirs!
  2. Check with the venue. Does your venue have a preferred DJ? If so, that DJ probably knows the venues acoustics and any special concerns. You might not decide to go with that DJ, but their preferred DJ should be on your interview list.
  3. Ask for referrals. That friend whose reception was awesome? Ask her for her DJ’s name.
  4. Look at wedding forums for your area. Who do people recommend? Dig deeper than the star rating and actually read reviews to find out why people recommend a particular DJ.
  5. Make a short-list of DJs and interview them. If a DJ won’t make time for an interview, how likely is he or she to make time for you during the wedding planning.

Know what to look for and where

The most common option is to go with a DJ whose primary business is weddings. These wedding DJs know the ins and outs of wedding receptions and may even be great at serving as an emcee to make announcements. To find one of these, do the usual web searching and asking for referrals from other vendors.

Ask to hear samples of the wedding DJ’s work

Once you’ve found a DJ or two that seems right for your wedding, ask to see examples of their work. This could be a video of a live performance, a mixtape, or sample playlists. The more important to you the quality of the music is, the more you should see and hear before hiring.

Give the DJ your playlist and your “do not play” list

If you’re already set on a playlist, discuss it with DJs and make sure they are willing to follow it. You may also want to create a “do not play” list and share it to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

If you include the ceremony then this is what’s typical of the DJ:

1. Prelude music 30 minutes to start of ceremony as guests are arriving and being seated waiting for the ceremony to start.
2. Processional song for the wedding party
3. Processional song for the bride
4. Possible music in middle of ceremony for unity sand or other similar event
5. Recessional music for bride, groom and wedding party after being introduced as husband and wife.
 
As you can see there are a lot of different things to consider. Wedding ceremonies usually only need one hour for everything from the prelude music all the way to the recessional song at the end. Receptions typically require 2 hours of background music for cocktails and dinner and then 3 hours of dancing and everything in between.

How long will a Wedding DJ perform for?

The length of a DJ’s set is pretty much up to you, to fit with your wedding day timing. It’s usual for Wedding DJs to provide music for around 4-5 hours. Just bear in mind that even the most professional DJ needs a break now and then, and your guests would probably welcome a breather from dancing every 90 minutes or so too!

Your wedding venue may have a curfew time for music or dancing according to their licence. You may need to stop at midnight if your venue is a hotel or in a built-up area, for example, or you may be able to continue on to 1am or beyond

Tips To Find Good Commercial Roofing

Roofing

How Durable Is Your Commercial Roofing System?

Types Of Commercial Roofing Systems

Why wait till your roofing systems becomes so damaged that it starts leaking profusely before taking measures to patch it? Consult a professional roofing company for a quick and affordable roofing repair service. Some of the most commonly used roofing systems for commercial application are listed below.

Metal Roofing System

The use of commercial metal roofing applications has become increasingly popular in recent years thanks to its many benefits. Commercial metal roofs are high quality, versatile, lightweight, and offer long-lasting performance. They also require little to no maintenance for several years after installation. For those looking for a durable, energy-efficient roofing system, consider buying a metal roof. These long-lasting roofs come with at least a 10-year warranty on any metal roof repair service. Material types for metal roofs for commercial purposes include zinc, pre-finished steel, and copper — all come with a watertight warranty for a period of 30 years.

Solar Roofing System

As a business owner looking to go green, spend less, and save more in the long run, installing a commercial solar roofing system is the ideal solution. There are a good number of commercial solar roofing applications available on the market today, each offering great benefits while ensuring long-lasting performance. A solar roofing system is one of the most durable products that’s highly resistant to extreme weather conditions, including snow, wind, heavy rainfall, hurricanes, and other storms.

Steep Roofing System

Another product to look out for is the commercial steep roofing system. This product adds more charm and attractiveness to any commercial building. Some of the most durable commercial steep roofing materials include shingles, slates, and tiles. They can last for several years.

Flat Roofing System

Recognized as one of the most popular roofing types available today, the commercial flat roofing system is durable, cost effective, and can last a long time if properly maintained. It is one of the most widely used commercial roofing systems in the world today.

FACTORS DETERMINING LONGEVITY

There are many factors that determine how long a commercial building’s flat roof will last. In general, a flat roof membrane will last anywhere from 10-50 years depending on these factors. All three of these flat roof membranes have their benefits and drawbacks but are all commonly used today on commercial flat roofs.

Each year new technological innovations are making all these flat roof membranes more durable, easier to apply, and are improving their longevity. For instance, the new improved TPO membranes have great promise, but not enough time has passed to tell just how long they’ll last. EPDM is considered a “base” system but is constantly improving.

The longevity of a flat roof membrane is dependent upon:

  • Climate
  • Installation
  • System Type
  • Roof penetration
  • Proper Maintenance

What this means is choosing the right installer is just as important as choosing the right flat roof membrane. Consult with a roofing professional with expertise and experience in applying all three types of membranes. This ensures you’ll not only make the right choice in a system type but also have the best chance of a quality installation.

Maintaining a flat roof is an important factor in determining how long the membrane will last. Making sure there’s proper draining is the most important thing you can do. If flat roof slop ponding occurs, eventually this will seep through and cause costly damage to the surface underneath. Often this damage isn’t detected until rot and mold are present.

Checking the seams, flashings, and all around the rooftop penetrations, periodically and after rainstorms should be done. Detecting any damage or worn areas before there’s water leakage will increase the longevity of the membrane and save any costly damage to the foundation of the building underneath.

Commercial Flat Roofs: Pros & Cons

Flat roofs are one of the most common types of roof for commercial buildings.

Advantages

Commercial flat roofs can be significantly more cost effective to build than pitched roofs or steep slope roofs because they require less material due to the fewer square feet to be covered.They are easier and quicker to install, which can translate to a significant savings for the building owner. This also effects the ease and potential price of your next commercial roof repair.

Owners have many types of flat roofing materials and membranes to choose from – rubber rolled roofing, EPDM, PVC, TPO, bitumen, modified bitumen and built-up roofing. While there are many different color choices to choose from with roofing membranes, however many building owners choose to stick with white.

This can help reduce energy waste from cooling costs due to it’s reflective properties.

Air conditioners can be moved from the ground to the roof. Solar panels and satellite dishes are easier to install on flat roofs than on pitched ones. These items are then less obvious from the curb or parking lot. Maintenance and drain cleaning is easier on flat roofs since workmen can walk easily and safely, regardless of weather conditions.

Disadvantages

The most important issue is poor drainage.

Standing water can degrade the roofing materials long before they normally would. One of the advantages of pitched roof styled buildings is not having to worry as much about drainage issues. Materials breakdown leads to leaking and water damage inside the building.

It is imperative that an experienced commercial roofing contractor with a good reputation for professional work do the installation or repairs in order to avoid problems with the roof.The experienced team at Sentry Roofing understands where the drains must be located and the proper height to avoid puddling.

6 Most Common Commercial Roofs and Roofing Materials

Commercial roofs come in many forms, with each one built according to the needs of the building and the budget of the owner. The kind of roof your commercial property has plays an integral role in the overall health of the building, and the longevity of the roof itself. The surrounding environment, typical weather, and any extraneous variables such as animals, foliage, etc. will also have an impact on the integrity of the roof over time.

It’s important to note that most commercial roofs are either flat or low slope, which narrows down the available roofing materials. The six most common roof classifications include:

  • Built-Up Roofing (BUR) Membrane
  • Metal Roofing
  • Modified Bitumen Roofing
  • Thermoset (EPDM) Roof Membrane
  • Thermoplastic (PVC & TPO) Roof Membrane
  • Garden “Green” Roofing System

How to Choose a Commercial Roofing Contractor

Once you know how to choose a commercial roof, it’s time to find a roofing contractor to work with. This choice is just as important as the roofing materials you choose. You need to make sure that

Hiring a bad roofer to install the roof will result in an unstable roof. It’s also likely to have a negative impact on your work as a civil engineer. Here’s what you need to keep in mind.

Licensed and Insured

In most states, roofing contractors are required to have a license to operate. They should also carry insurance. Yet, for one reason or another, there are roofing contractors who don’t carry insurance.

This can put everyone on the job at risk if there’s an injury. If a worker gets injured on the job and the roofing contractor doesn’t have insurance, the property owner could be held liable. They would then have to pay the injured worker’s medical bills.

That would turn the entire project into one major mess. You can avoid this nightmare situation by asking to see the contractor’s insurance policy.

You also want to make sure that they’re licensed to operate in your area. This is easy to do. You can just look up their license number and check with your state’s roofing board. This will ensure that they’re licensed, and that license is in good standing.

Warranty of Work

A number of commercial roofing contractors have some kind of roofing warranty. Most of the time, this warranty is on the actual roof itself, which can be for about 10 years or more.

You want to make sure if there’s an installation issue after the fact, you have some method to get it fixed without spending more money on the project.

Be sure that you understand exactly what is covered and not covered in the warranty.

Protection of Property

Replacing a commercial roof is a dangerous and sometimes messy job. In the replacement process, roofers can throw old parts of the roof onto the ground or in the surrounding parking lot.

You’ll need to make sure that the roofing contractor has some kind of system in place to protect the property during the installation. That could result in a bigger mess that you might have to remedy after the installation.

Exterior Painting Tips For Summer

Painter

Exterior Painting Shortcuts to Avoid

Now, most exterior painting tasks are lasting between 12-twenty five years, with respect to the quality of exterior paint. However, even using the most effective products and materials won’t insure paint warranty on the can. Listed here are key shortcuts to prevent when painting an exterior, insuring lasting beauty and defense against weathers harsh elements.

Never apply and painting materials within 24 hours of power washing: This is applicable to caulk and primer. Allowing the substrate to totally dry up from crevices and cracks, normally 24-48 hrs after power washing has had place will make sure a dry surface of these products to stick and bond to. Many occasions unscrupulous painting contractors who’re in a rush to begin and finished an exterior painting job will begin caulking and priming within 24 hours of power washing, that is a big no-no.

Don’t even think power washing replaces scraping: After power washing is finished, and completely dried out, hands scraping is essential. Power washing only removes grime and dirt, and enormous chunks of paint which has lifted up, curling. Ruthless washing will damage the wood surface, washing too near to surface, so utilizing a hands scraper may be the order of economic, as being a dental professional utilizes a tool to check on for tooth decay.

Caulking over old caulk

Aged caulk will many occasions outdoors of one or more surface substrate, otherwise both, at 90 degree angles, say where trim meets siding. Never caulk over old caulk, as this separation has happened with old caulk, and new caulk follows the identical lines of separation if old caulk is not removed. Additional time is involved, but well worth the efforts, before any exterior paint can be used.

Don’t paint over bare wood areas with finish coat paint: Bare wood can get primer much better than trim or body paint in selecting colors will. Exterior primers are created improving connecting materials within the paint than finish jackets, therefore allowing the final outcome jackets to bond to exterior primers much better than bare wood. Once all loose flaking paint remains removed, make use of a thick uniform coat of exterior primer on all bare wood surfaces.

Avoiding the prep work

  • Not pressure washing siding prior to painting
  • Not sanding walls
  • Not priming patches
  • Not masking the baseboards, molding, windows, etc.
  • Not Caulking

There’s no substitute for prep work when you’re hoping for a great final product.

Not preparing the paint properly

Paint is designed to be prepped, so make sure you do the following to make it ready to be applied to the surface:

  • Strain your paint to remove impurities and lumps
  • Thoroughly mix the paint

Using only one coat of paint

Always apply at least 2 coats for the best results.  Covering your surface in one coat will most likely result in a transparent and unflattering finish.  Applying just one more coat paint (2 total) will be your best bet to give you smooth long lasting results.

Painting without Cleaning a Surface

In order to make the paint stick properly to a surface, it needs to be clean from dust, dirt, mould and other things that may be attached. A dirty wall will lose new paint quickly, as the paint won’t be stuck to the wall, in many cases, but will be stuck to the dirt.

Once that dirt falls off, it takes the paint with it. That leaves you with a patchwork wall with a lot of unsightly holes in the paint.
Be sure to pressure wash, scrub or otherwise clean any surface you plan to paint until it is smooth and clean.

Painting over Old Paint

You can often paint over old paint if that paint is in good condition. If the paint is faded or just not the look you want anymore, but it is still intact, then it’s okay to paint over it. When you want to avoid repainting on top of old paint is when that paint is chipped, curled, peeling or otherwise damaged. That paint is going to come off over time, taking the new paint with it. Just like the dirt example we talked about above, you’ll end up with a wall that looks poorly painted after a while. It’s best to scrape off any paint that is starting to show its age and peeling or chipping. It takes time to get rid of that old coat of paint, but you’ll save yourself from having to repeat the work over again later.

How to Fix Roller Marks

If your walls look like lap lanes in a pool, you have roller marks. These occur when a brush or roller doesn’t maintain a wet edge while painting. To remedy this:

  • Start by sanding down the uneven areas until smooth
    • Patching may be necessary afterward, be careful as it may take off underlying paint
    • If severe enough, it may be easier to patch the whole area
  • Clean the dust off of the walls
  • Prime the area
  • Put a sufficient, uniform coat of paint on the wall

Why Mosquito Control Is Important

Pest Control

Why do mosquito bites itch?

When a mosquito bite breaks the skin, a person’s body recognizes the mosquito’s saliva as a foreign substance. This causes an immune system response, which aims to flush out the intruder.

The swelling around the bite is caused by histamine, which is produced by the immune system.

Histamine increases blood flow and white blood cell count around the affected area, which causes inflammation or swelling.

Mosquito bites itch because histamine also sends a signal to the nerves around the bite.

The first time a person is bitten, their body may not react in this way. The immune response is something that the body learns after being exposed to a foreign substance.

Some people may never react to a bite. Others might become more tolerant to a mosquito’s saliva over time. For many, the reaction remains consistent, and mosquito bites continue to be an annoyance.

Why do mosquitoes bite us?

Mosquitoes bite humans to drink their blood. The nutrients contained in a human’s blood help female mosquitoes to make the eggs they need to reproduce. Only female mosquitoes bite people.

A mosquito uses the sharp tip of its straw-like mouth (proboscis) to pierce a person’s skin. It locates the blood vessel and draws blood up through its mouth.

As it does this, it injects saliva that contains an anticoagulant. This stops the person’s blood from clotting. If the blood were to clot around the mosquito’s mouth, it might get stuck.

Mosquito Bite Allergies & Reactions

Mosquito bites cause a reaction in most people’s bodies, some more severe than others. A slight swell and itchy red bump is the typical reaction. The female mosquito (males don’t need blood meals) injects saliva into your body to thin the blood and prevent coagulating for easier drinking. This mosquito saliva is the source of the mosquito bite reactions. However, some people are more sensitive to and even allergic to the saliva which can heighten the reaction. For instance, babies and small children can have a more swelling and a brighter red reaction due to their young sensitive skin. Bruising can even occur for those with the highest sensitivities.

SYSTEMIC MOSQUITO BITE REACTIONS

Although rare, those with a severe allergy to mosquito bites can experience nausea, hives, vomiting, wheezing, and swelling around the lips and mouth. Fever, asthma, and anaphylactic shock can even occur. Those who may have an allergic reaction to mosquito bites should seek medical care immediately.

SKEETER SYNDROME

Skeeter Syndrome is the name given to the severe local reaction to mosquito bites that occurs for some. Swelling can cause an entire limb to become twice its normal size within hours of being bitten. Sometimes it may take up to 48 hours after being bit by a mosquito for a serious allergic reaction to appear.

Risk factors for mosquito bites and Skeeter syndrome

Mosquitoes appear to prefer certain victims over others, including:

  • men
  • pregnant women
  • people who are overweight or obese
  • people with type O blood
  • people who have recently exercised
  • people who emit higher amounts of uric acid, lactic acid, and ammonia
  • people who have recently drunk beer

Also, because mosquitoes are attracted to heat, wearing dark colors may make you more likely to be bitten. This is because dark colors absorb heat. People living in humid, tropical climates or swamplands are also at greater risk for bites.

Some people have a greater risk of an allergic reaction, too, such as younger children. People with allergies to some of the components of mosquito saliva, such as proteins and antimicrobial agents, may also be at a greater risk of developing Skeeter syndrome.

The best way to prevent the illnesses they spread is to avoid mosquito bites.

  • Wear light-colored clothing to cover up.
  • Put mosquito repellent “bug spray” on your bare skin.
  • Get rid of places that water can collect around your home.
  • Keep water in pools and landscaping moving.
  • Use screens on your windows or a mosquito net when sleeping outdoors.

How to treat mosquito bites

Treating mosquito bites is a relatively easy task and can be done at home, and is similar to how you would treat other insect bites. You can treat mosquito bites by:

  1. Cleaning the bite with warm soapy water.
  2. Placing an ice pack on the bite to reduce the swelling
  3. Taking an antihistamine to help relieve the itchiness.
  4. Avoid scratching to reduce the risk of infection.

Home remedies for mosquito bites

On top of the usual insect bite treatments, there are also a handful of home remedies you can try, to help treat mosquito bites by reducing the swelling and relieving the itch.

  • Toothpaste: The menthol flavor of the toothpaste helps to soothe the bite
  • Honey: Honey is a natural antibiotic and will help with the swelling
  • Aloe vera: Aloe vera is a natural antiseptic agent and can help reduce the pain, swelling, and itching.

How to get rid of mosquitoes

The best way to prevent mosquito bites is to prevent mosquitoes themselves. Eliminating the source of the problem will drastically reduce the possibility of getting bitten by a mosquito. The following items will also aid in getting rid of mosquitoes:

  • Mosquito traps: Installing mosquito traps and zappers will help keep these biting insects away
  • Remove standing water: Mosquitoes like to lay their eggs in stagnant water. Eliminating the potential breeding sites from your property will make it less appealing to mosquitoes.
  • Professional treatment: Contacting a professional mosquito exterminator is the most effective way to get rid of mosquitoes. The range of mosquito services and solutions they can offer will help keep mosquitoes away, and reduce the risk of mosquito bites.

Plastic Surgery And Choosing A Plastic Surgeon

Health

Tips for choosing a plastic surgeon

If you are considering plastic surgery, you have some decisions to make. While many people spend a lot of time thinking about the procedure and the potential results, there is something much more important to consider. That is the choice of the right plastic surgeon. Not every physician is qualified or experienced in every procedure and choosing the right plastic surgeon isn’t as simple as getting a referral. Referrals and internet research can give you a place to start but as a potential plastic surgery patient, you have a lot at stake – your safety and your appearance. You need to carefully evaluate the surgeon before you make the choice.

Expertise

All plastic surgeons should be certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery or Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Plastic surgery is a highly, complex specialty that requires years of education and training. Board certification also allows you to ensure that a physician will meet safety requirements and has the medical skills needed but it is only the beginning. Asking your surgeon about his or her professional involvement in teaching, speaking or writing about the procedure you are considering will tell you that he or she is up-to-date on new techniques and technology

Experience

In addition to the right training and education, your physician should have experience performing the type of surgery you are considering. Some surgeons specialize in particular procedures, and your procedure type should be in his “top three.” A good rule of thumb is that he or she should have performed this type of procedure once or more per week for five years or more. Plastic surgery is a complex art and the surgeon needs to stay in practice. Having done a number of procedures over a number of years will help ensure that he or she has the skills that you need.

Exceptional Results

When most people think about plastic surgery – they think about the results they hope to get but not every plastic surgery story ends well. If you have ensured that your potential surgeon has the expertise and experience, you are on your way to choosing the right doctor but he or she also needs to produce exceptional results. Most plastic surgeons keep a file of “before and after” pictures which you should examine. Make sure these include at least two examples of “after” photos taken a year or more post-surgery.

By considering these three E’s, you have taken care of the physical part of your plastic surgery but there is more. Your plastic surgeon should be personable as well. The difference between a good plastic surgeon and a great one can be credited to his interaction with his patients. For that evaluation, we have the three C’s and three A’s.

How to Find the Right Cosmetic Surgeon for You

Your choice of cosmetic surgeon will be a choice you live with for years, if not your entire life. A successful procedure will make you feel more like yourself and give you greater confidence for years to come. On the other hand, ending up in the hands of an inexperienced surgeon increases your chances of having poor results, which can lead to additional costs, time, and heartache.

Make sure the cosmetic surgeon is board certified

Many people think they can depend on state medical boards to ensure that surgeons are qualified to perform the procedures they advertise, but that fact is that the government does not require a surgeon to be specifically trained in the procedures they offer. This problem is most acute in the area of cosmetic surgery, as many doctors with general surgery or other medical training hop on the cosmetic surgery bandwagon in pursuit of greater profits.

Confirm the surgeon’s experience in the specific procedures you want

Each area of cosmetic surgery requires different skills: you can imagine how operating on a nose with bone, cartilage, and breathing passages would be quite different from operating on a breast, which is primarily comprised of soft tissue. Given this, cosmetic surgeons can have subspecialties within the field. Choose a surgeon who is board certified in cosmetic surgery and has substantial experience in the procedure you are considering.

Choose a surgeon whose aesthetic sense appeals to you

We all know that what one person finds beautiful may be unattractive to another. For this reason, you can’t just trust a friend’s recommendation or solely depend on the cosmetic surgeon’s experience. You need to look carefully at the results for each surgeon you interview.

Pay attention to how the surgeon and staff make you feel

Surgery is a big deal, and there can be curves in the path to your new look. You need to feel 100% comfortable with your cosmetic surgeon and their support team. Choose a cosmetic surgeon whom you like and trust completely with your safety and results.

Insider Tips for Finding a Plastic Surgeon You Can Trust

Victoria Cross, a 57-year-old from Montgomery Village, Maryland, considers her breast reduction the best thing she’s ever done for herself. “When I woke up from the surgery and sat up, it was the first time in a very long time that I didn’t feel any pulling in my chest and my shoulders weren’t hurting,” she tells SELF. Cross, who had the procedure at the age of 45, was a D cup in high school and a G cup by the time she had her surgery. Now she’s a proud C cup and has never looked back.

But one of the reasons she waited until her 40s for the procedure was because of the difficulties involved in finding the right surgeon for the job. “Part of the reason for the length was convincing some of the offices that I wanted to ‘interview’ the doctor,” she explains. In other words, she wasn’t willing to sign the paperwork and meet her handler while she was lying on the operating table. This, experts agree, is a very important part of the process, and one that shouldn’t be ignored.

talk to friends, family members, and acquaintances who’ve had work done to get recommendations.

First, consider those close to you. Has anyone had work done? If you’re comfortable, reach out to him or her for advice. “A trusted friend or family member can give you an honest rundown of the entire process, from the consultation with the doctor and the surgery itself to the recovery process,” says Alyssa R. Golas, M.D., plastic surgeon at NYU Langone Health in New York City.

Do your homework by reading up on reviews of surgeons in your area.

As one does this day in age, Issy Ryan, 38, of New York City, took to the Internet before settling on a surgeon to carry out her liposuction procedure. “For me knowledge is power, so I read review after review to get a sense of previous patients’ experiences and help me get to know a little bit about how each surgeon ‘operated,’ both in and out of the operating room,” she tells SELF.

Make sure to view everything on the Internet with a healthy dose of skepticism.

Golas says that while reviews on Yelp and RealSelf.com, and the social media pages of patients can be great resources, they can also be a source of misinformation. “Anonymous reviews (especially negative ones) may be used by a patient to seek revenge or advance his or her own agenda instead of as a way of sharing knowledge and personal experience with other potential patients,” she says.

Choosing the Right Cosmetic Surgeon

First, you should interview two or three surgeons whose specialties match your needs. The surgeons should be board-certified and members of one of these professional organizations

There may be qualified surgeons in other professional organizations, but these are the primary groups that certify that doctors are qualified to perform cosmetic surgery.

Personal recommendations are important. Ask friends for referrals if they have gotten a similar procedure. Get opinions from your family doctor and other doctor acquaintances. Surgical technicians and operating room nurses are an excellent source for information about a surgeon’s skill in the operating room.

Remember, cosmetic surgery is a highly competitive field. Don’t be confused by groups claiming to be “the only” or “the best” because this excludes many surgeons who may be better choices for your particular issues. Ask about their fellowship training — specialized training in specific procedures. Check with your state’s medical board to verify the surgeon’s board certification, education, and license. And check whether disciplinary action has been taken against the surgeon.

Questions to Consider Before Selecting Your Cosmetic Surgeon

At this point, you may have narrowed your choices to one or two cosmetic surgeons. It is now time for the consultation

Tips to Pick the Right Plastic Surgeon

What is the doctor’s training and certification? Any practicing physician may call him- or herself a cosmetic surgeon or may advertise that he or she performs cosmetic procedures. Only physicians who are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery have received years of specialized training in plastic surgery (both cosmetic and reconstructive surgery) and have passed rigorous examinations to demonstrate their competence in the field. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons Web site has a feature to help you locate plastic surgeons who are board certified in the field.

What is the doctor’s experience with the particular procedure you are considering? Ask how many times he or she has performed the procedure and if he or she has received specialized training in the particular area. How long has the physician been performing the particular operation? Remember that not all surgeons will be experts in every area. A doctor who is an expert in breast augmentation surgeries may have little experience with nose reshaping.

At which hospital does the doctor perform the procedure? Are you comfortable with being treated in this hospital? Is the hospital accredited?

Does the doctor ask you about your reasons for having the procedure, and are you comfortable talking openly with this doctor? A good cosmetic surgeon will explain all alternatives to the procedure and will not pressure you into making a rapid decision.

Does the doctor answer all your questions clearly and fully? Your doctor should be frank about issues such as recovery time, potential side effects, risks, and realistic expectations for the outcome of the procedure. While “before and after” photos make a convincing statement, be sure to ask if the photos represent typical results

Enjoy Partying At A Whole New Level With A Party Bus For Hire

Events

Tips for choosing the best Party Bus

A wonderful fleet:

All the coaches that come in this fleet are motor coaches and buses. These come at a length of 40 to 45 feet. Any bus that is less than 40 feet is not the kind that will offer you the best of comfort. This is one important criterion to keep in mind whilst hiring a bus. Buses that are less than 40 feet in length will not offer you the best of comfort. Their driving characteristics are also different compared to the other bigger vehicles.

Wide selection:

You can select a mini-bus if you are a group of 20 to 30 and for larger groups, say between 45 and 60, you can opt for the motor coaches and passenger buses. These forms of travel offer you the best in safety, comfort and other driving characteristics.

Ergonomically designed:

These buses are constructed with passenger comfort in mind. The seats are made of plush leather to offer optimum comfort. They are ergonomically designed to give your spine, back and neck muscles the right kind of support. There is enough leg space so that you do not feel cramped. The luggage space is enough to carry all your cargo with the greatest of ease. No ride is as smooth as that of a party bus. The seating layout is optimized for comfort and provides the passengers with the most delightful of traveling experiences.

Safety measures:

The weight and the size of these vehicles make them far easier and one of the safest of options to ride around in. The trained drivers will take care of all the safety regulations. Moreover, you will not to have to worry about paying any tolls, parking fees, or any other fees as all of this will be taken care of by the driver.

Tips On Choosing The Right Party Bus For Hire

Cost-effective

You can have a safe transportation as well as ample entertainment when you are on board. Moreover, it doesn’t cost you a fortune to experience this. If you happen to travel in a group of friends and divide the rates, the cost is even more affordable. You’ll also find a number of very cool features and amenities on party buses these days. Most vehicles will come with standard things such as limo style seating, washrooms, sound systems, and party lighting but you may come across vehicles that try to go the extra mile to impress.

VIP Service

Forget about waiting in line to get into the hottest clubs in the town. With your chauffeurs to lead the way, you will move to the front of the line every time. They also provide VIP entry to the club without even a pass. Now how cool is that! The first thing is to have your own prerequisites lined up. List the names of people you intend to invite. This gives you a good idea of what sort of seats arrangement you will require.

Check on the reputation of the party bus companies

Prior to using a particular service operator you really want to make certain to do your due diligence to check the company is able to supply a well equipped and maintained vehicle, which comes with a sufficiently licensed and experienced driver.

Tips To Get The Most Out Of Your Party Bus Rental

Always Tip Your Party Bus Driver

It is a normal thing to tip the driver 18 to 20 percent of the initial tour price. Still, many companies have this tip already added to their full price, while others leave the tipping to the client.

Select Your Music

Even if some companies offer radio or satellite radio, you may want to bring your own music on a CD or iPod. You will have to discuss this aspect in advance. Most limo companies have iPod docking stations and surround sound systems, subwoofers and connections for iPods, MP3 players, tablets and others to set the party mood.

Select Your Refreshments

The fun part of renting a party bus is that you can party while on board. Speak with the company about its policies and contribution for food and beverages. Some of the companies will let you bring your own food and beverages.

Make Party Bus Rental Reservations

You should reserve a month in advance and confirm the reservation within a week before the event. Even if you are planning to rent a party bus for a wedding or another event that does not have a flexible date, the reservation should be made as far as a year before.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT SIZE PARTY BUS FOR YOUR SPECIAL OCCASION

THE PLUS 3 RULE FOR A GREAT EXPERIENCE

There’s one more thing to keep in mind – there’s almost always an extra body or two that will make its way into the party. It will be easy for you to welcome these additions if you’ve planned for a little cushion in the seating space ahead of time. It’s a good rule add 3 to the number on your guest list, possibly a few more if you know your group tends to spread the word and invite others along.

HELLO STRANGER

Just because a party bus is filled with all your favorite people doesn’t necessarily mean that they all know, or are comfortable, with each other.

A party bus rental is a great opportunity to introduce people and let them mingle, but nothing is worse than feeling obligated to sit next to someone you don’t know that well simply because they are no other seating options. If your group isn’t exactly close-knit, give them the courtesy of a few extra seats and a little breathing room.

KEEPING THE PARTY GOING

One of the biggest perks of a party bus rental is that the festivities can continue while you’re in the bus. It’s important to consider any onboard activities when planning for the size of party bus you need.

How to Choose Party Bus for Your Event

Is the party bus company licensed?

You will be required to deal with a licensed and insured company and to ensure you are safe to travel. This is important in the case of an accident; the company should be able to cater for your lose. You should insist on checking the license of the company and driver together with the insurance cover to ensure they are genuine. This will help you build trust on the company’s service that they will provide to you.

Capacity to can accommodate

It is important to determine the capacity that the party bus can accommodate. Some party bus rental has a maximum capacity to accommodate. You will, therefore, be charged an extra fee for the extra seats. The bus party rentals have different size of party buses; you need to select one that can accommodate a good number. You are also supposed to book some extra seats in case you are expecting some visitors.

Select your music and refreshments

Before you book a party bus, you need to discuss with the company if you are allowed to play your music using their systems. Remember it is a party bus. Therefore you need to find a bus that you will be allowed to be selective in your music.

Asphalt Tile Roof And Safe Roof Access

Roofing

Considerations for Choosing Roof Tiles

As the single largest surface area of a home, the roof is an important architectural feature and decisions around roofing materials should be made carefully.

“Whether building a new roof or re-roofing, it’s important to consider style, aesthetics and long term performance when selecting roofing materials,” explained Mark Dell from Boral Roofing & Masonry.

Consider the roof tiles’ material

Roof tiles are available in ceramic, terracotta and concrete, and a homeowner’s choice will come down to personal preference of shape (or profile), colour and finish. Boral ceramic, terracotta and concrete tiles are built to last, with a 60 year warranty on ceramic tiles, 50 year warranty on terracotta tiles and a 20 year guarantee on concrete tiles. Ceramic and terracotta tiles are slightly smaller than concrete tiles, which mean there are differences in the number of tiles per square metre, as well as the system and pattern of aligning the tiles on the roof next to each other.

Select a tile profile that complements overall design

The profile refers to a tile’s shape and design at its cross-section. This can be either flat or shaped, with further design variations within these categories. A key consideration when choosing a profile is the architectural style of house as well as the pitch of the roof. For example, a flat profile will lend a more streamlined, contemporary look; if you are in a high rainfall area however, rain will run off faster on a steeper roof pitch.

Research colour and finish options

Colour and finish can have a fundamental influence on the style, character and essence of a home. The architectural style and the home’s environment, including surrounding houses, is a major factor in choosing exterior colours and finishes. When selecting roof colour and finish, consider guttering and fascia finish of the home and, as a general rule, look for colours that are in harmony or contrast. Boral ceramic, terracotta and concrete roof tiles are available in a range of warm, cool and neutral tones.

Which Type of Roofing Tile Should You Choose?

Ensuring the right roof tiles are installed on a property is vital. It can affect the aesthetics of the building and can make sure the roof meets the design requirements of your home. The decision about the tile used on your propriety will go on to affect a number of other important decisions. But with so many types of roofing tile available, the market can feel overwhelming. Read on for our easy to read guide covering the basics on various roof tiles available, including pros and cons as well as potential costs.

Clay Roof Tiles

Many homeowners with one eye on the property market are turning to clay tiles to add real aesthetic value to their home. This attractive tile comes in a number of shapes and patterns helping to create a traditional Mediterranean look

Concrete Roof Tiles

Concrete tiles can mimic the aesthetic appeal of clay and slate while also providing high levels of durability against the elements. They are one of the most common tile types on the market and extremely cost-effective in relation to their performance levels.

Interlocking Roof Tiles

Single lap interlocking roof tiles are typically flat or profiled smooth or granular and are possibly the easiest and quickest of all the roof tile variants to install. The combined ease of use, along with lower prices, has seen them become one of the two main tile types installed in the UK. Concrete is by far the most common material used for this particular style, although they can be purchased in clay and slate.

Large Format Roof Tiles

The main advantage large format tiles offer to homeowners and developers is faster installation and the reduction of support materials. This is good news for your bottom line as well as the speed at which roofing projects can be completed.

Roof tile selection how to choose the right roof tiles

Roof tiles come in a vast array of shapes, sizes, textures, materials and colours. Here at Marley, we offer a roof tile selection that comprises more than 80 different clay and concrete products, including pantiles, flat and interlocking designs, as well as colourways ranging from reds and browns to various shades of grey. But with so many choices, how do you specify the right roof tiles for your project?

Look around

The roof tiles you specify will have a significant impact on the overall look of the development when it’s finished, so selecting tiles with the right aesthetic is essential.

While you might like the idea of the development standing out, it’s important that it draws attention for the right reasons – and being the only slate-coloured roof in a neighbourhood of red clay roofs may not be ideal. In some cases, the wrong choice of roofing material could lead to difficulties with planning permission.

Consider the technical characteristics

While the architectural style of the building is an essential consideration in roof tile specification, it’s only part of the decision-making process. You will also need to make sure the roofing materials you specify are fit for purpose – and this can vary depending on the location of the property, typical local weather conditions and the structure of the building

Here are some of the technical considerations you’ll need to think about:

Material – Popular options include clay, concrete, natural stone, fibre-reinforced concrete and cedar

Minimum and maximum roof pitch – Most roof tiles have a range of suitability, but if the pitch of your roof is especially steep or shallow, some products may not be appropriate.

Size, coverage and minimum headlap – The spacing of the tiles and how much coverage a single tile offers will play a role in how many roofing tiles need to be purchased, as well as the speed of installation and overall project cost.

Weight – The weight of all the roofing tiles must be supported by both the roof structure and the walls underneath.

Thermal efficiency – Roof tiles can contribute towards lower U-values and a more energy-efficient home.

Batten requirements, base layers and fixings

Compatible accessories

Ease of installation

What to Consider When Choosing Your Roof Tiles

If you’re about to start renovating your home, or perhaps even building a new home altogether, the materials you choose for your roof is a crucial step in the process. Of course, you have the practical reasons to consider: durability, keeping your home protected from the elements and water tight. On top of that, however, there other factors that should come in to play when choosing types of roof tiles UK; possibly from an environmental perspective, almost certainly from an aesthetic. After all, you want your roof to look good as well, don’t you?

Local Planning Restrictions

You might have your heart set on particular types of roof tiles – be they clay, stone or slate. However, there may be external factors which will need to be taken into consideration when choosing types of roof tiles UK that might be out of your control.

How Your Roof is Designed

The types of roof tiles you choose for your roof may also be dictated, to a certain extent, by the design and pitch of the roof itself. If the pitch of your roof is low, for example, you may be restricted in the type of tile you can opt for; certain traditional slate tiles, such as the market-leading Thrutone slates for example are not designed for roofs with a pitch lower than 22°. Or the classic Rosemary Clay Tile which has a minimum pitch of 35°.

General Appearance

The overall aesthetic should not be overlooked when considering the correct roof tiles for your project. At the end of the day, your building needs to have an attractive finish and look right within its surroundings. At the roof plays a huge role in this appearance.

Geography

Another important aspect to consider with your roof tiles is the region in which your building is located. Across the UK there are a number of fairly distinctive profiles for roof tiles types that hold prevalence in different regions, and this may well have a bearing on your choice of tile.

Choosing The Right Tiles For Your Roof

Your choice of roof tiles can be a surprisingly cost-effective (and fun!) investment. If you’re at the planning stage of choosing new roof tiles, explore your options before you get to the roofing installation phase. You’ll be surprised at what’s possible.

Concrete tiles: Concrete tiles are typically cheaper, heavier, and generally considered suitable for any type of roof. There is a wide range of styles, shapes, and colours available.

Terracotta tiles: Terracotta roof tiles are among the oldest types of roofing tiles in the world. Their earthy colours and textures are very popular to this day. Terracotta tiles are typically used on all kinds of buildings

Choosing Your Roof Tiles

It’s a good idea to shop around to get a good understanding of design choices, prices, and suitability for your type of home. You can have a lot of fun selecting the latest roof tiles, so don’t be in any hurry to choose.

Design Considerations

If you are doing a custom renovation, or a new home design, please be aware that you can get any design you want for your roof tiles. Modern roof tiles are far superior products, and can be available in a range of colours to suit any design

Preparation Guide For Residential Painting

Painter

How to Choose A Good Painter

Sure, you can ask your friends and neighbors to begin with. But, what if they do have one to recommend? Although many people simply pick a random name out of the phone book, your better of going to a website like SmartGuy.com, which lists thousands of local professionals many with ratings you can verify.

Make a plan.  Make sure you know in advance exactly what you want to paint and what color. In order to keep your costs down, you want to do it right the first time. Also, when meeting with various painters, make it clear that you want several coats, as well as the type of paint you want to use. Like most materials, there are better quality paints, and cheaper paints that won’t last as long. Emphasize the need for proper preparation and make sure all of this is in the contract you sign.

Get a few estimates. Seek a written detailed estimate from each of the painting contractors. The estimate should include a summary of labor, material costs, the number of requested coats of primer and paint, the specific brand of materials, and details of the scope of job that is to be painter.

Verify references and past jobs. Get a list of past clients from each painter and call them to see how they did, how long it took them and if they experienced any problems working with the painter. You might want to even ask them for references of a few jobs they did five years earlier to see how they are holding up

Consider reviews. Before hiring the painter, look and see if they have a BBB rating or SmartGuy rating. You can also enter their company name followed by the words “rip off” or “scam” and see if anything comes up. You might also find some information on their company at your state’s Contractors License Reference Site.

Steps To Choosing A Painting Contractor For Your Home

Choosing the right painting contractor to help you protect and beautify your home can be an overwhelming task, especially if you’ve never hired anyone to do a home improvement project before.

Explore Your Options

There’s no shortage of resources available to you when you’re trying to locate prospective painting contractors, but there’s also no guarantee that any of the random names you’ll find while searching the web or browsing through the phone book will be reputable contractors.

Get Multiple Bids

After you’ve selected a few companies that have piqued your interest it’s time to get bids.  It’s always a good idea to get multiple bids for comparison purposes.  Avoid the temptation of choosing a prospect simply because they have the lowest bid price, as that is by far the most dangerous way of selecting a contractor.  But a little healthy competition never hurt anyone and it helps to keep prices at a reasonable level.

Interview The Candidates

One of the biggest reasons why people end up dissatisfied with their contractor is that they didn’t know the right questions to ask before they made their decision.  When you meet with your contracting candidates you should treat it like a job interview

Check References

Your final act of due diligence in choosing a painting contractor is to check their references.  Any contractor worth their salt will have a complete list of references they will provide you with so you can check out their work for yourself.

Steps to Choose the Best Painter for Your House

Colours speak volumes about a person. More so when it’s for your house. Choosing the best colour code for your room or house is as important and painstaking as building the house itself. However, it’s not so tough either. It all starts with finding out the best painter or contractor for residential painting. In this article, we look at the ways in which you can choose the best painter for painting your house.

Meet Multiple Contractors

The big hoarding of a smiling painter in your neighbourhood might not necessarily be the best for you. Try to call in at least three reputable contractors and allow them to inspect your house. The more time the contractor spends in moving around the house and briefing you, the better bonding your house will have with the painter. As an added advantage, you might gain some expert knowledge about painting a house and may act as a source of information for your friends and relatives

Negotiate Early

Trust is important for getting a job done. But when trust overpowers, relationships sour. Often, contractors bid low to earn your trust, and midway to the project increases the turnaround time and cost. As a customer, you must make your expectations clear, and also responsibility in case of an exigency.

Acquaint Yourself with Paint Types

It’s true that an experienced contractor would ideally brief you with the best paint options, but, as a customer, knowing the basics of paint can make you stay one step ahead. Paint can be either latex or oil-based. Latex paint is washable and tends to last longer than oil-based paint. However, oil-based paint gives a brighter visual appeal to wooden textures. Polish or sheen is the next matter of consideration.

Get a Formal Contract Letter

An official contract letter saves you from unnecessary harassment in case anything goes wrong. A contract letter should clearly state the total cost, inclusions and exclusions in the paintwork, and all pertinent details of the contractor, like name, office and residence address, phone numbers, and license number. If possible, get a copy of the contractor’s insurance policy. It would save you from legal trouble in case a neighbour’s property gets damaged, or the painter gets hurt, due to an accident.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT PAINTING CONTRACTOR

There is something about spring and summer that compels us to start our home projects. Better weather means we get to do the projects we’ve been putting off for months and house painting is definitely one of them. Whether you are staging your house for it to be ready in the market, painting the baby nursery, repainting the walls to hide the nicks and dings that accumulated over the years or simply wanting to get a house revamp without hurting your pockets that much, a painting project should be done by a painting professional to make sure you get the result you are aiming for. How do you get started and how do you choose the right painting contractor for your project?

Based on Yelp, are about 236 painting contractors in Chicago alone. Choosing the right one is perhaps the most important and the most difficult part of any painting job.” Who do I call?”, “What company has the essential expertise that I need to get the job done?” These are the questions that will likely come up in search of THE painting contractor that will help you complete that painting project.

Plan Your Budget

Budget is one of the most predominant factor to consider before exploring your options of painting contractors in the area. What you decide on your budget will be determined by the quality of materials you want to use, the scale of the project as well as the amount of prep work that needs to be done.

Look for Feasible Options

There is no shortage of available resources for prospecting painting contractors. Yelp, Google, Angie’s List are just a few places to start looking for painting companies near your area. Prepare a list of painting companies you may potentially hire. No matter how cliche it is, it is still better to lay down the pros and cons of each company so you will know you are making the best choice. Ask yourself what is the most important factor that you would like to consider when hiring a contractor? Is it the price? The reputation of the company? Maybe even its proximity? Don’t make the common mistake of choosing the first company that shows up on Google search, do your own due diligence on researching different companies first.

Ask the right questions

You’ve got your list of potential contractors, it’s time for you to interview them for the job. In this day and age, you can easily get in touch with them, be it by email, phone, or chat. Now, one of the reasons why clients like you end up dissatisfied with their contractor is because the right questions weren’t asked before they hired a contractor

Choosing a Painter

Using a licensed or registered painter is an important way you can ensure you won’t be ripped off. Licensed or registered painters have received special training to make sure they apply coatings to specifications,and meet industry requirements. Painters who work unlicensed or unregistered in states where they are required to do so risk the quality of the work carried out, and pose a risk to the consumer. The licensing or registration system protects the consumer and the painter from unnecessary conflict and disappointment. Consumers who use unlicensed or unqualified painters may be unable to recover damages, should a complaint over faulty workmanship arise.

In New South Wales a painter must be licensed if he/she contracts, sub-contracts or advertises to do exterior residential painting where the reasonable market cost of the labour and building materials is more than $5000.

STANDARD OF PAINTING

Coatings used are to be suitable for the relevant conditions and relevant wear and tear. Unless documented otherwise, painting is defective if it does not comply with the manufacturer’s installation instructions or AS/NZS 2311 – Guide to the painting of buildings.

INSPECTING THE PAINTWORK

Generally, variations in the surface colour, texture and finish of walls, ceilings, floors and roofs, and variations in glass and similar transparent materials are to be viewed where possible from a normal viewing position, defined as looking at a distance of 1.5 m or greater (600 mm for appliances and fixtures) with the surface or material being illuminated by ‘non-critical light’ , which is the light that strikes the surface, is diffused and is not glancing or parallel to that surface.

SURFACE FINISH OF PAINTWORK

Paintwork is defective if application defects or blemishes such as paint runs, paint sags, wrinkling, dust, bare or starved painted areas, colour variations, surface cracks, irregular and coarse brush marks, sanding marks, blistering, uniformity of gloss level and other irregularities in the surface that are visible from a normal viewing position. (Normal viewing position is 1.5 metres directly in front of surface)

The Secret Of Commercial Electrical Maintenance That No One Is Talking About

Electricians

Ways to Choose the Right Maintenance Electrician for Your Commercial Business

As we enter the digital age, more and more of your business relies on high-quality electrical systems. When looking for maintenance electricians, especially for emergency situations, it is important to choose reliable, professional tradesmen. But how do you find the right electrical services?

Scope of work

Whether you are up for a refit, moving offices, or needing repairs, commercial electrical work is a complex sector of the electrical trades industry. Once you have contacted a likely choice, make sure to explain clearly what your expectations are of the job and the available budget. Ask to be taken through what approach they would take. An experienced electrician should be able to identify potential issues, outline likely parts required and get a rough timeline of the works

References

The internet is a valuable source of information when you are looking to hire commercial trades. Past project galleries are invaluable for ensuring the electrical services you need to match the expertise of the specialities of your short-listed electricians.

Quotations

When making contact and asking for a quote, there are a few things you can be aware of that help you determine the professionalism of your likely electricians

Nothing is worse than trades that don’t meet commitments or deadlines. Whether they have taken on too many jobs or are simply disorganised, quality organisations take great pride in being on time, every time.

All electrical work in WA requires certification of tradesmen who are required to hold a current electricians license. It is important for safety that your hired tradesmen carry the appropriate licence for the job.

Just like your business, your electrician should have public liability and business insurance. These details should be provided when asked for, you don’t want to be unprotected when works are underway.

Service quality. In the electrical trade, service is not limited to the end result. A professional job takes into consideration time, minimises disruption to your commercial activity and respond to queries promptly.

Time required. As part of a quote, you should be presented with a likely timeframe for works to be completed. This can vary depending on the size of the electrical team, speciality equipment necessary, and the experience of completing similar projects in the past.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT COMMERCIAL ELECTRICIAN FOR YOUR BUSINESS

Commercial electrical work can be very different from domestic electrical work. Choosing the right commercial electrician for your business requires many considerations.

Experience

Commercial electric work requires experience. Check your electrician’s experience and knowledge with commercial electrical work. The more experienced your electrician is, the more knowledgeable they will be with complex projects.

Resources

Does your electrician have the internal resources and team to meet all your electrical needs? Don’t settle for a one-man band. A good commercial electrician should have a team of well trained professionals

Communication & Cleanliness

You’re running a business, so you don’t have time to waste. Make sure your electrician communicates well and is able to liaise with other contractors who may be on site too. While your electrical work is important, you need your business to continue running. Your commercial electrician should understand this, and make an effort to keep their work area clean and tidy for you.

License and Insurance

It goes without saying that it is critical that your electrician should have proper licenses and insurance for the work they perform. In the unlikely case that there is an accident on site, you will be assured that your electrician is covered.

Tips to Consider When Choosing a Commercial Electrician

We often work with companies who turn to us after having a negative experience with their previous electrical contractor.  Commercial work requires expanded knowledge, skills and resources.  There are several things to keep in mind when choosing a commercial electrician.

Availability

You want a 24/7 electrician available to handle any needs that may arise.  For instance, a retail establishment may need to call a 24/7 electricians to come out on Black Friday to resolve an issue.  A restaurant may need access to a 24/7 electrician  to address electrical problems with equipment. Not having ready access to 24/7 electricians can cost a business thousands of dollars in lost revenue.

Knowledge and Ability to Meet Any Commercial Demands

When interviewing a commercial electrician, he or she should request a tour of the building, office, warehouse or facility where they will be working.  A good commercial electrician will scope out the area and be comfortable working in all types of environments.  They should also be able to not only perform repair work, but installations and maintenance as well.

Licensed and Insured

Ask any electrical contractor you are considering for their license and insurance information.  If they are unable to produce it, then move on to someone else.

Good References

Don’t be afraid to ask any commercial electrician you are considering for references.  You can also check online reviews for practically any electrical contractor these days.  Be sure to take a good look at their experience and background.

Key Factors To Look For When Choosing An Electrical Contractor

With so many cowboys masquerading as qualified, experienced electricians from a safety perspective, it has never been more important to choose the right electrical contractor for your residential or commercial project. Many people are tempted to opt for the cheapest quote, which more often than not could turn out to be a costly mistake. That said, knowing who to trust for your electrical installation and maintenance is not always easy, as there are many factors to take into consideration when making your decision. Read on to learn some important points to consider when making your decision

Risk of choosing the wrong contractor

Picture the scene; a rusty Robin Reliant three-wheeler pulls up outside your property. After screeching to a stop, several men in string vests jump out and promptly light their cigarettes as they loudly argue about whose responsibility it was to pack the tools that were forgotten. A couple of the men decide to go back to get them, screeching off in the rust bucket. Meanwhile, the remaining man asks you to show him what needs fixing whilst he curses about how unhappy he is to be expected to do a day’s work and complains about his incompetent colleagues.

NICEIC – CERTIFIED

The most critical factor to look for in an electrical contractor is whether they are accredited and approved by the National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting (NICEIC). It is advisable to hire an electrician with NICEIC certification as the organisation assesses the competence of both domestic and commercial electricians to ensure safe systems of work that conform to standards set out by the IEE (Institute of Electrical Engineers), who set the standards for electrical installation work.

QUALITY WORKMANSHIP

While some of us believe we can recognise high-quality electrical work when we see it, the reality is that not many of us fully understand the fundamentals of electrical systems. This lack of knowledge makes establishing what constitutes a quality electrical installation open to interpretation. The National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) developed the National Electrical Installation Standards (NEIS) in the 1990s to take away subjective judgements of this essential quality.

SAFETY STANDARDS

You have a right to expect your electrical contractor to work to the highest electrical safety standards. There are many safety standards that apply to electrical work that you should take into consideration. For example, Part P certification and the 18th Edition IET Wiring Regulations (BS 7671:2018), this is the most recent update of electrical safety systems, which came into force for all new electrical installations from 1st January 2019

Factors To Look Out For When Hiring Electrical Services

Our lives run on electricity. Our comfort and convenience depend on it. From HVAC system of your house to electric circuits in your company, anything can go wrong and you need the help of electrical repair/replacement experts.

Experience

Electrical repairs require knowledge, practice, and experience, given that there is potential harm attached to it. One of the easiest ways to judge a potential electrician is to ask for their experience in the field. Make sure that the electrical contractor you choose is proficient in the field and follows all the required safety guidelines.

Qualifications

Always ask the electric service company for their staff’s training certificate and qualification. This will help you make an informed decision that you might not regret later. Make sure the training certificates of the electrician company are from a reputable organization and they follow safety and quality guidelines of nationally recognized institutions. To educate yourself, you can read about certain the NFPA’s electric safety tips.

Professionalism

Make sure the electrician you choose is professional and this can easily be determined from the moment you meet him. Try determining factors like attentiveness, honesty, and attention to detail. Ask questions raising concerns about your electrical fault and related things. This will help you decide on the right electric company or an electrical maintenance contractor for your company or house.

Affordability

Make sure you set your maintenance budget before starting to look for an electrical maintenance contractor. This will help you shortlisting potential electrical maintenance company or contractors to a great extent. To this cause, it is advised that you should always interview at least 3 electrical maintenance contractors/companies before hiring one. Analyze what all you are being offered and at what cost! Choose the contractor which offers best at his pricing.