Epoxy Floor Coatings And Their Merits, Commercial Painting And More

How to Choose the Right Commercial Painter

Ensuring it is kept in immaculate condition and looking its best will always be a top concern to those managing the property, and painting is a huge factor to consider when investing in renovation or maintenance. Whether your property is customer facing or is an office space hosting important visitors, you want to create an environment you are proud of as it reflects your business. It is also important to consider your employees and how comfortable they will be in the right environment. Happy employees are more productive, and any business owner would want that for their company.

Make a Shortlist

There is a huge amount of choice available out there. Most people will probably start by looking on the internet for local companies who specialize in commercial painting jobs. Consider what specifications you require and look for providers who specialize in that area. If you have any family or friends who have used commercial painters in the past, it is always worth asking them if they have any recommendations. Being able to actually see the work a company can do is a terrific way to know if they are up to the job. Once you have a list of likely candidates, contact them individually to inquire about a consultation or quote.

Always Do Your Research

Once you have a shortlist, you need to make sure to do some research. Testimonials and references from past customers are crucial. Follow up to see if they are still happy with the work that was carried out and inquire about ongoing maintenance and aftercare. Do some internet searching to see if there are any negative reviews. A negative review doesn’t always mean the company is unusable but see how they responded to it and then make an informed decision. Check to make sure the company has all the relevant licenses and insurance, just in case something goes wrong. If an accident happens or any damage is done you need to make sure you are adequately covered. You can never have too much information, so try and learn as much as you can

Ask for a Detailed Quote and Get it Signed

Make sure that any quote you are provided with shows that the contractor understands the job fully and has included all the specific details you require within the pricing. This includes any prep work that is needed, finishes, the specifics of the surfaces involved and any other unusual requirements. Ask questions if you are unsure of anything and seek advice if necessary. If you are satisfied, sign the quote yourself and make sure the contractor also signs it. Any respectable contractor will not have an issue doing this, and it makes the quote a legally binding contract should anything go wrong.

Cost isn’t Everything

While you will want to keep costs down as much as possible, it is important to not just go for the cheapest quote. You want to make sure that you are getting the best value for money. Quality work isn’t always the cheapest, so if you have it in your budget, investing a little extra for a more professional finish and an excellent service is a very worthwhile thing to do.

How to Choose a Commercial Painting Contractor

Your business or commercial property is extremely important to you, and one of the biggest concerns that you have is keeping it in the best condition possible at all times. If you’re having any part of your property painted, you need to hire a commercial painting contractor who you know you can trust for quality work. Every painting company has a different set of skills, experience, and techniques, so it’s important that you select a contractor who will be able to provide you with all of the specific services that you need. Finding a commercial painting contractor can be difficult, and it’s also extremely important.

Start By Selecting Core Candidates

The first place that most people look for any kind of information is the internet, and any commercial painter’s website should be as helpful to you as it is to their company. You should be able to easily find qualified commercial painters in For Lauderdale online. However, you should also check in local directories, and you should get recommendations from people who have used painters in the past. Select a a few contractors and your core candidates, then call them to ask an estimate and an interview

Don’t Base Your Decision On Pricing Alone

As a business or commercial property owner, the cost of any work that you’re having performed is very important to you. One of the most important qualities of a commercial painting contractor is their ability to provide you with an honest and accurate estimate of the cost of the work. And while you do want to make sure that you’re overpaying for any services, you also don’t want to simply choose the company that offers the lowest estimate. Remember: differences in pricing are often a reflection of the differences in service and quality of work that you’ll receive.

Choose the Right Specialists

When you begin to interview commercial painting contractors, make sure that they have the proper skill set for the jobs that you need to have performed. You should also make sure that the painting company has all the skills and specializations that you’ll need for this job. Otherwise, you may end up needing to hire multiple different companies

Tips Of Choosing Your Commercial Painting Contractor

Commercial painting involves a lot of work and expertise. Therefore, whenever you are thinking of giving a building a facelift, it is essential that you think through about the contractor that will do the painting for you. This is specifically very important because it determines the quality of work that you will get. With all the commercial contractors in town, you are spoilt for choice on whom you can choose and therefore, you can never have any excuse as to why your building looks horrible. Below are some tips to follow when choosing your commercial painting contractor.

Ask around

Whenever it is your first time painting the exterior or interior of your house or business, finding your commercial painting contractor can seem like a huge dark cloud over you. However, nothing could be further from the truth, all you need to first do is ask people around you on the best contractor that they know of. You can ask your friends, colleagues at work, or family members among others and you will surprised about what knowledge people hold. After doing this, you will get a list of the number of good commercial painting contractors in town, which then gives you the license to start finding your ideal commercial painting contractor.

Do research

After you have been given a list of the reputable commercial painting contractors around town, you cannot give them the job all of them. You will need to narrow down on the best contractor who is best suited to paint your building. You can only achieve this by carrying out thorough research on the list if the painter near me contractors that you have on your list. This will enable you find out more about the kin d of people that you will be dealing with. Therefore, ask whether they have licenses, whether they are insured, check their status in the business bureaus and ask the number of years that they have been in the business.

Get their estimates

After you have gotten adequate information about the kind of companies that they are, you can narrow down on your best three commercial painting contractors. These are the best contractors that you have sampled that matches your qualification. After doing this, then ask them to provide you with the estimates of the costs that they will charge to paint your house or business. Pay keen attention to the costs that they give, any low cost or very high costs should raise your red flag. Compare the prices that they charge and do an average of the costs. You can thereafter choose the contractor that charges reasonably affordable without curtailing the quality of the work that they do

Tips for Choosing a Commercial Painting Company

If you’re looking for some helpful hints and tips that will make your life simpler when it comes to hiring a commercial painting company, then this article is going to shed some light on the subject and ultimately ensure that you make the right hiring choice. Keeping this in mind, let’s take a closer look.

Compare your option

Perhaps one of the most important things to do whenever you’re planning to hire a painting contractor is to make sure you are aware of all of your options before you choose to hire any specific company.

Check their references

Once you have gathered information about the painting contractors in your local area, and perhaps even selected a few favorites, a smart idea to check their references in closer detail.

Check their licensing

If you’re living in a state that requires licensing to perform this kind of work, then it’s important to check whether your chosen painting company has the necessary licensing in place.

Conduct a brief interview

Finally, it’s often a good use of your time to perform a quick interview before you part with your cash, as this will give you the perfect opportunity to ask a few questions about the service that’s on offer, along with any technical questions you may have in regards to the supplies they’ll use, any preparation that will be required, and how long the project is likely to take

Tips for Choosing a Commercial Painter

Just like your home, your business or commercial property is important to you. Painting can be a critical investment in keeping your property in the best possible condition and the decision of which commercial painting contractor to hire should not be taken lightly. Below are a few things to consider when selecting your commercial painting contractor.

Don’t Make Your Decision on Pricing Alone

While the cost of any task that you are having performed is always going to be important to you and your business, one important quality to look for in a commercial painting contractor is their ability to provide an honest and accurate estimation of the cost of work. While you don’t want to overpay for any services, you also don’t want to choose a company just because they offer the lowest estimate. Keep in mind that differences in pricing are a reflection of the differences in the quality and service of work you will receive.

Hire a Specialist

Since the physical appearance of your location is closely tied to people’s perception of your business, you need to make sure the company you trust with its appearance has experience working on commercial buildings. Commercial properties are often large and built with a wide variety of building materials which can present unique challenges to painters. An experienced team of commercial painting contractors will know how to handle all of these challenges effectively.

Excellent Customer Service

In most cases, painting of your commercial property occurs during business hours. By choosing a commercial painting contractor that is committed to excellent customer service, you will not only find yourself dealing with a company whom your people are comfortable interacting with, but also one which will be able to interact professionally should they come into contact with any of your customers

Tips In Finding An Experienced Electrician

Tips to Help You Choose the Right Electrician

It’s essential to keep the electrical system within your home safe and functional. Still, when something goes wrong, you want to work with an expert for a safe and effective solution. However, with so many electricians to choose from, it can be hard to work out how to choose the right electrical contractor for your job. Here we look at some of the factors you should consider when selecting an electrical contractor

Licensed, Bonded and Insured

There’s simply not enough to be said for the importance of your electrician being correctly licensed, insured, and bonded before they come to perform work at your home. This protects you from unnecessary costs and stress should something go wrong in your home. It also ensures that all the electricians working on your electrics have the proper training to perform safe and effective work

Who Is On the Team?

Many electricians work as part of a team or company that may be comprised of master electricians, licensed journeyman electricians, or apprentices. In the case of some electrician companies, if they receive too much work, they may subcontract out to other certified electricians to complete work on busy days. It’s good to know exactly who will be attending to your project when you contact the electrician company and being informed beforehand if the owner or primary electrician won’t be visiting your home for the project to avoid any surprises

Qualifications and Certification

Your electrician must have proper training and adequate experience to provide top service and high-quality results for your electrical repairs and installations. Certified electricians are guaranteed to have at least 3 years’ experience. They can offer a 12-month warranty on their work as proof of quality and competence.

A Good Reputation

Word of mouth has always been a popular way to evaluate a service provider. However, with the widespread availability of the internet, testimonials and reviews are always at our fingertips. If you’ve received a recommendation for a particular electrician, it’s a good metric of their quality and service. You can also find several reviews for electrical contractors on their own website. Or, you can always conduct a search to find more information and reviews of the electrician online.

How to choose a really good electrician

You’ve probably heard common complaints from your friends and family about poor quality of work and a general lack of professionalism from electricians, leaving behind a trail of head and heartaches. Electrical problems that are still not fixed and structural issues that appear which weren’t there before.

Then you have the “rogue traders”. Although they’re rightly demonised in the media, Ombudsman Services report that six in ten homeowners still fail to check any credentials before giving the go-ahead for any work

So what can you do?

Usually, getting a personal recommendation from a friend or family member is the most trusted way to find a reliable tradesperson. But if this fails, what do you do next?

The NICEIC

Regulatory body for the electrical industry, the NICEIC, provides a register of all verified electricians, who have passed their qualifications. You can search by location to find a local, qualified electrician or by company name to see if an electrician are who they say they are. You can also find a naughty list, which names and shames electricians who claim to be NICEIC, but are not.

Commercial Directories

There are also commercial directories which recommend tradespeople based on previous customer ratings. Checkatrade has become one of the most popular directories in the UK thanks to their strict background checks on tradespeople before they can become members.

Choosing A Registered Electrician

Many of us consider the visible things in our homes to be the most important – we value our TVs, games consoles and comfy sofas, yet some of the most important and vital components that make up a home aren’t immediately visible.

The wiring behind your walls is a complex lifeline and one which should only ever be tackled by a registered and fully qualified electrician. The consequences of not doing so could very well mean that everything else goes up in smoke.

Why should you choose a registered electrician?

A properly installed and well-maintained installation can significantly reduce the possibility of accident or injury. So, it is important that any electrical installation work is carried out by people who have the knowledge, skills and experience needed to avoid the dangers that electricity can create.

We recommend that you give your electrician a written summary of work required, which will simplify the quotation process and give you and your electrician a clear record of what has been agreed.

Are you a registered member of one of the Government approved schemes?

Start by checking that the individual is a registered member of one of the Government approved schemes. Choosing a registered electrician means you will get additional protections should something go wrong. Contact the scheme directly if you want to check the individual’s registration.

How to choose an electrician

There’s a little more to choosing the right electrical contractor than just tracking someone down and throwing money at them to get the job over and done with. In fact, if you’re careless about who you hire or what you try to do yourself, it could easily end up burning your house down or really hurting someone.

When do I need an electrician?

We all know that electricians install and repair electrical systems. What you might not know, though, is just what kinds of electrical work you’ll need to call an electrician in for.

What qualifications do electricians need?

These days, all states and territories require electricians to hold an electrical license to carry out electrical work (see the pictures above for a few examples). Most states also require electricians to be ‘Registered Electrical Contractors’ (R.E.C.s) before they’re allowed to operate an electrical contracting business or perform electrical work for profit.

What’s a certificate of electrical compliance?

Electricians must issue certificates of electrical compliance for the work they do. These certificates indicate that the work that’s been done complies fully with the state or territory’s applicable electrical legislation as well as the Wiring Rules (also known as Australian Standard AS/NZS 3000:2007) – and that the work’s been properly tested and approved

If the electrician won’t give you a certificate or show you a licence, look elsewhere! And if you’re not sure about any of the above, get in touch with your local state regulator for more information. They’ll normally be more than happy to help.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT ELECTRICIAN

Here are we understand that choosing an electrician can be an intimidating process. When comparing professionals from any field that you’re not familiar with, it’s often confusing to try to what different technical jargon means and whose qualifications are superior to whose. To make this process easier, in this article, our team will provide some key tips on how to choose the right electrician

Look for Experience- When comparing electricians, always ask about their level of experience. You want to make sure that the one you hire is actually qualified to do the kind of work you need, so ask about what kinds of projects they’ve worked on in the past, and for how long. Each of our technicians here we have at least 20 years of experience, so you won’t have to worry about a lack of expertise from our team.

Pay Attention to Communication- Most electrical projects take at least a couple of days, and there’s a lot of coordination that needs to happen in order to complete the job. Because of this, we are encourage you to pay attention to each candidate’s communication skills and attitude—do they explain things so that you can understand them? Are they upfront about possible delays? Asking yourself these sorts of questions will help you identify which electrician will give you the best service.

Check Recommendations- Lastly, you should always ask around and do a quick internet search to check out the electrician’s reputation before you hire them. A positive reputation among your circle of acquaintances is a good sign of a company’s skill and professionalism, and you can double check your findings against online review sites like the Better Business Bureau or Angie’s List. In fact, you can check out listings on both of those sites to see what we have accomplished for our past clients

How To Deter Scorpions Naturally

WAYS TO CONTROL SCORPIONS IN YOUR HOME AND YARD

While some scorpions are merely a nuisance, others, like the Arizona Bark Scorpion can deliver a truly nasty and dangerous sting. You can cut your risk of encountering any scorpions by taking some wise preventative measures to protect your home and family. From clearing away scorpion friendly debris to using a blacklight to spot these pests at night, these tips will help you create a scorpion free environment for your family.

DECLUTTER YOUR YARD

Scorpions like the dark, so the debris and decorative items you have in your yard could be attracting the pests to your home. Eliminate any easy scorpion abodes, including piles of leaves, rocks or wood, old flowerpots and furniture and even decorative pieces that offer too many shady crevices to hide in to cut your risk of encountering a scorpion.

ELIMINATE ENTRY POINTS

Check your home for loose shutters, windows or siding that could offer a place for scorpions to enter. If your doors and windows allow a draft or breeze to enter your home, then they are big enough to admit a scorpion as well, so seal any drafty spots right away. Trim trees to eliminate the risk of scorpions entering your home from the roof or second floor

USE A BLACKLIGHT AT NIGHT

Scorpions are nocturnal creatures that are active after dark; if you will be outdoors after nightfall, a black light flashlight can help you spot a scorpion before you step on it. Check paths and walkways before stepping down to be sure you stay sting free.

TREAT FOR OTHER PESTS

Hire an exterminator to treat your home for related pests; ants, roaches and grasshoppers are all prey animals for scorpions. If you have a lot of these insects in your home or yard, chances are you’ll have a lot of scorpions preying on them as well.

SCORPION CONTROL

It’s important to keep family members and pets safe from scorpions in Georgia. If you think you have a scorpion problem in and around your home, contact Healthy Home Termite and Pest Control for affordable scorpion extermination services. Read below for more information on identifying scorpions in your home and finding the right solution for extermination.

How to Identify a Scorpion

Scorpions are predatory arachnids that are known for their unique appearance. With their large, curved tail and accompanying stinger, they are easily recognizable.

It is also worth mentioning that if other small insects like fleas have increased in number in your home, the likelihood of scorpions will increase. Scorpions feed on smaller insects, so an abundance of smaller insects is bound to attract scorpions. Reducing the number of other insects in your home is key to making it less desirable to scorpions. Ask your Healthy Home Termite and Pest Control expert about best practices and tips to make your home less desirable to scorpions.

Scorpion Removal

Scorpions can be extremely difficult to get rid of since their hiding places in homes can be hard to reach. Our trained technicians are well-versed in how to identify a scorpion problem and will provide you with a thorough and affordable examination of your home.

Should there be an issue, you will be given several options on how to remove scorpions, including natural and ecologically-friendly methods. Healthy Home Termite and Pest Control will work with you to choose a plan that best fits your lifestyle and budget.

Scorpion control

In some ways scorpions are similar to spiders. They have a reputation for being deadly and for attacking humans, but that’s not the case. Most scorpions prefer to hide, and are generally quite shy. They tend to sting when threatened, but they don’t go human-hunting and their stings are very rarely deadly to people.

That’s not to say that scorpion stings are not painful. They are and people with sensitive immune systems, known allergies to other stinging pests, or heart problems can have serious health risks with scorpion stings. That’s why effective scorpion pest control and scorpion removal should be handled by trained professionals.

People are generally terrified of scorpions. Thanks to their rather intimidating appearance and the fact movies and TV shows make them out to be fearsome pests, scorpions have a very fierce reputation. People are very afraid of scorpion stings, perhaps even more than bee stings or wasp stings. However, a lot of what people fear regarding scorpions is irrational. Scorpions are not actively seeking to sting people and the vast majority of them do not pose a threat to humans. However, Arizona and North America just happen to home to one of the more venomous scorpions around – the Arizona bark scorpion.

Why do scorpions sting?

Scorpions do not want to sting people. They are looking to sting prey, but even then, they may not deliver venom via their stinger. Scorpions only have a finite amount of venom within their system and they choose to prefer to use it for specific purposes. If their prey is small enough, they can use their claws to grab it and tear it apart to eat it. However, to paralyze larger prey, they will lunge their tail forward and sting their prey to immobilize it and then eat it.

Preventing scorpion stings

The best bet to deal with scorpion stings is not to get stung at all. Scorpions want to avoid people as much as possible, but sometimes they end up inside homes and crawling along walls outside homes, too. Making sure the house is sealed up and there is no way for scorpions to crawl inside is the best way to avoid being stung in your home. Checking clothing and shoes before putting them on in scorpion heavy areas is important, too.

Guaranteed Pest Control

Looking for pest control Phoenix? Then you are probably familiar with unwanted desert pests like black widow spiders and scorpions. Unfortunately, due to our high temperatures and despite our dry climate, many people deal with bugs and other insects year around. Getting rid of scorpions and other insects inside and around your home doesn’t have to be complicated. If you are getting your home serviced regularly by a quality exterminator you can expect to see a dramatic decrease in scorpions and other insects inside and around your home.

Pest Control Done Right

There are other pests here in the Phoenix valley that are not only annoying, but carry disease as well as really tear up your home or business. Mosquitoes and termites are the pests that actually cause the most harm to your health and home. Stop the pests before they start with a pest maintenance control plan.

You may think pest control is just setting out some mouse traps or spraying the home and be done with it. However, pests are smart and they multiply rapidly. If you have seen one scorpion, you probably have a a lot more around your home. Our technicians are trained in the behaviors of these pests. We studied how they live, what they like and don’t like and most importantly how to properly exterminate them. As a result, our techs are trained professionals that take time to solve the root of you pest problem.

Not all pest control companies are the same. As a result, their service, pricing and value vary greatly. Here are a few recommendations when deciding who to go with.

Don’t shop solely based on price. Everyone wants a good deal. But what if you still have scorpions in the house? Or your dog gets sick because the technician does not use a Eco-Friendly product? Then it probably wasn’t worth going cheapest pest control company.

Choose a company that stands by their work. If you are not satisfied with a service you should be able to get the issue resolved without paying twice. Make sure satisfaction is guaranteed!

Education over making a sale. If they are more interested in making a sale than educating you about your pest problem they might not have your best interests in mind.

Pest Control Services (The Takeaway)

In short, finding the right exterminator for your pest control shouldn’t be difficult. However, you want to make sure to do your research. Be sure to ask questions and look at their online reputation. Any legit company will be online. There will be reviews about their business in different areas. Those will help you determine if the pest control company your interested in does what they say they will do. Above all, you want a company that has great reviews and a great reputation.

EFFECTIVE SCORPION CONTROL

Life in Arizona has many positives; however, dealing with scorpions on a regular basis is definitely not one of them. There are many creepy crawly insects in Arizona; yet, out of them all, scorpions rank among the least favorite.

ARIZONA BARK SCORPIONS

Scorpions are a prominent species. They thrive in dry desert climates. The bark scorpion in particular, also one of the most dangerous species of scorpions, is the kind we see most often in Arizona. It is the most venomous scorpion in North America, and unfortunately enough, we have them right here in our backyards.

Arizona Bark Scorpions are incredibly resilient, making them more difficult to control. They are nocturnal, and come out at night to hunt for crickets, beetles, roaches and other small insects. This means the more pests you have in and around your home, the better food source you are providing to the lurking scorpions.

While they do thrive in the desert, they do not however, enjoy the strong desert heat. During the day, you will find them under rocks, piles of debris or wood, and other objects you have around your home. They keep themselves well protected from the hot Arizona sun. Their protective measures include squeezing into tiny cracks and crevices that might be accessible to your home.

HARMFUL PESTS

The largest threat that scorpions pose is their painful sting. The Arizona Bark Scorpion being the most venomous in North America, can cause more than just pain. A scorpion sting can cause inflammation at the sting point, redness, numbness, shortness of breath, even immobility of the stung area.

Use Dentist Ratings Websites To Find A Top Rated Dentist

Why It’s Important to Choose the Right Dentist

Your dentist is a health care provider, similar to your personal physician. As you know the importance of choosing the right doctor, the same is true for your dentist.

You may be surprised to learn how many adults do not visit the dentist unless they have an emergency. In many cases, it is not because they cannot afford it, or cannot fit appointments into their schedules. Many people avoid the dentist because of bad experiences they had when they were young.

What If You Need Dental Treatment?

Under ideal circumstances, your experiences with dentistry will include twice-annual exams and cleanings. You will have a dental professional to answer your questions. However, choosing a dentist is also important when you need any type of dental treatment or dental work.

You want a dentist who is fully qualified to treat your particular dental issue. Whether you need implants, a filling for a cavity, or root canal therapy, a dentist’s training and experience will make a difference. Your treatment can be completed without complications, and the least amount of difficulty for you.

You can look at choosing a dentist the same as choosing a personal physician. When you are looking for a dentist who will meet your needs today and in the future, make an appointment to meet the dentist in person. When you see his overall attitude and professionalism helps you feel comfortable and confident, your oral health care will always be a positive experience.

Finding a Dentist

When you’re searching for a dentist, the American Dental Association (ADA) offers these suggestions:

Ask family, friends, neighbors, or co-workers for their recommendations.

Ask your family doctor or local pharmacist.

If you’re moving, ask your current dentist to make a recommendation.

Contact your local or state dental society. The ADA provides a list of local and state dental societies on its web site, www.ada.org. Your local and state dental societies also may be listed in the telephone directory under “dentists” or “associations.”

What Should I Look For When Choosing a Dentist?

You and your dentist will be long-term oral health care partners; therefore, you should find someone you can be comfortable with. To find a suitable dentist to meet your needs,

consider asking the following questions as a starting point:

What are the office hours? Are they convenient for your schedule?

Is the office easy to get to from work or home?

Where was the dentist educated and trained?

What’s the dentist’s approach to preventive dentistry?

How often does the dentist attend conferences and continuing education workshops?

What type of anesthesia is the dentist certified to administer to help you relax and feel more comfortable during any necessary dental treatment?

What arrangements are made for handling emergencies outside of office hours? (Most dentists make arrangements with a colleague or emergency referral service if they are unable to tend to emergencies.)

Is information provided about all fees and payment plans before treatment is scheduled? If you are comparison shopping, ask for estimates on some common procedures such as full-mouth X-rays, an oral exam and cleaning, and filling a cavity.

Does the dentist participate in your dental health plan?

What is the dentist’s office policy on missed appointments?

How to Find a Good Dentist

KAREN VASSO, A 43-YEAR old farmer from Chelmsford, Massachusetts, takes good care of her health. In addition to the copious amounts of physical exercise she gets while working, she’s an avid swimmer and triathlete, who’s completed a few solo 12.5-mile swims around Key West in Florida. She also has a background in nutrition and knows that good dental health is an important aspect of overall wellness. She’s long sought to make visiting a dentist regularly a priority. However, a couple of bad experiences over the years have caused her to think carefully about what makes a good dentist and how to find the right one for her

The first incident occurred several years ago. At the time, Vasso was a single mother and her health insurance wasn’t terribly robust, so her options of which dentist she could see were limited. “I went to this quiet, dark office in the basement of a building” in a nearby town. The office was mostly empty, save for the dentist himself, and Vasso recalls thinking, “this is scary.” Undeterred by her gut intuition, she went through with the appointment. “He cleaned my teeth and at the end he said, ‘you have a cavity. I’m going to need you to come back for a filling.’ I know my teeth. I have extensive knowledge about nutrition and how that affects dental health,” and she says she suspected she didn’t actually have a cavity

Fast forward a few years to a new town and new health insurance, and Vasso decided it was time to do something about the lack of routine dental care she’d had for the past couple of years and scheduled an appointment with a local dentist. She opted for “a very big chain dental practice” that was in her insurance plan and made an appointment for a cleaning. “They did a cleaning and a cursory exam and told me I had six cavities. It blew my mind – there’s no way I have six cavities,” she says, feeling outraged.

Before she was even able to get clarification on where and how severe these cavities were, she’d been herded to the front desk to settle her bill and make several more appointments for additional dental work. Vasso decided she didn’t trust that dentist and made an appointment elsewhere for a second opinion. As suspected, that subsequent dentist confirmed she had no cavities at all, let alone six of them. “Can you imagine them drilling into my teeth for no reason? It blows my mind,” she says.

When looking for a dentist, Cooper says you should seek one that practices close to your home or work and that has convenient hours. It’s also important to consider any unique communication issues you might have. For example, “if English isn’t your first language, do you need a translator? In my practice, I have a lot pf patients who are Japanese,” she says, and although these patients “speak English perfectly well out in the world,” when it comes to the specific or technical vocabulary of health care, having a translator to convey this information in a patient’s native language can facilitate better understanding. “Sometimes having a translator there who can offer assurance about what’s going on in your own language can be extremely important,” she says. Arranging with the dentist ahead of time to have a translator available or bringing a friend or family member who’s able to act as translator are both strategies you can employ to make sure you don’t miss anything.

How to Find a Good Dentist: The Ultimate Guide

Moving to a new area? Not happy with your current provider but you need to schedule a dentist today? Don’t settle for the first dentist you come across. You’re putting your finances and your health on the line. The only problem is that it’s easy to get lost when you see a myriad of dentists readily available to you.

How to Find a Good Dentist: Start with the Basics

Learning how to pick a dentist starts by checking the ones closest to you. Choose one that’s near your home or your office, making it easy to visit if you use public transportation. Think of how you can get to it in case of emergency as well.

What Type of Dentist Do You Need?

Next, you also have to consider the type of dentist you want. Although a general dentist might refer to themselves as a cosmetic or family dentist, these are not official specialisations.

Ask for Recommendations from Friends and Family

Chances are, friends and family will happily suggest a good dentist that they are comfortable and satisfied with. Ask them specifics of what they like about their dentists to give you a better idea of their work.

Look for a Member of an Organisation

If you are relocating to a new city, your current dentist may have a recommendation too. Dentists working within an association could know someone in the city you’re moving to.

Things to Look For When Choosing a New Dentist

Find a dentist with a good reputation

The first important consideration when looking for the perfect dentist is to check his or her reputation. There are several ways to research dentists and their practice history. One of the first things to do is to search online reviews to see what positive or negative experiences patients have had at their dentist. Websites, such as Angie’s List, offer reviews from patients on dentists

Check your state dental board

Dentists are held accountable by their state dental board. Each state has a board of dentistry website that tracks the history of claims against a particular dentist. Make sure that the dentist you are about to see does not have any suspicious claims brought against them.

Interview your dentist

You need to interview your dentist or the dental practice, which is a simple as picking up the phone and asking the right questions. Find out where the dentist graduated, how long they have been practicing and what type of dentistry they do, how many staff members work there and how long have they been with that dentist.

Ask friends and family about their dentist

Ask your friends and neighbors where they go for dental work. There is no better way to find a great dentist than to find out who your friends and neighbors trust. Most people will not recommend bad service to you or advise you to see a dentist they are not pleased with.

Make sure your dentist meets your needs

Everyone has a certain criteria when they look for the right dental office. Some patients want a larger practice that sees a high volume of patients. Their time is valuable and they want to get in and get out. Others may seek a family-oriented practice that treats each patient as a part of their family. They want a doctor who will spend the time explaining things to them and not rush the appointment. Make the decision that is right for you.

Why You Need An Engine Rebuilding

What are the most common causes of engine failure?

In most cases, engine failures are caused by one root source: heat. Whether it’s a failure of the cooling system to keep the engine at an optimal operating temperature, or a lack of oil pressure or clean oil to lubricate moving parts which creates excess friction, most major engine failures can be traced back to these events. In general, there are a few specific issues that lead to engine failures including:

Water pump is broken
Heater core is clogged
Thermostat is broken
Oil pump is damaged
Oil level is low
Engine oil is old, too thick, and loses lubricity

When any of these occur, different parts of the engine will become damaged. If the engine overheats, it’s common for head gaskets to fail which introduces coolant inside the engine block within oil galleys. This dilutes the engine oil and causes a lack of lubrication, or excessive heat.

Knowing what caused the engine to fail is the first step in determining whether or not an engine rebuild or replacement is needed.

How Do You Know When You Need an Engine Rebuild?

How Do You Know When You Need an Engine Rebuild? Some of the common problems have already been mentioned. Running issues like an engine misfire, bad oil leaks, engine burning oil, engine head gasket leaks, or your engine pistons slapping inside the cylinders are all reasons your car could need an engine rebuild.

It really comes down to this: a technician has checked out your car, eliminated any other problems as being the cause, and said to you, “You need an engine rebuild.”

You truly need it properly diagnosed because other concerns can make it seem like you need an engine rebuild, even when you don’t. A failed knock sensor can make it seem like your engine’s about to blow up. Low oil level will cause engine knock too. And other timing-related sensors can cause your car not to start. Even electrical problems could mean you need a replacement engine wiring harness, not a whole engine rebuild.

Common Engine Failure Symptoms

Think you might need an engine restore or rebuild? Check out these common symptoms and see if yours matches up:

The engine knocks and rattles when it’s idling. It’s usually a bottom-end knock caused by worn-out bearings.
You’re always puffing a thick cloud of smoke from your exhaust. It’s worn-out seals that usually cause your engine to burn oil.
The timing belt or chain broke. Many engines have interference-style engines that are badly damaged internally when the timing belt breaks.
It won’t turn over. It could be seized, but you’d better check the battery, the starter motor, and the wiring before an engine rebuild.
The engine clatters when you’re accelerating. The pistons are moving around in the cylinders too much, and you’ll need an engine rebuild to fix it, even though it runs alright.

Tips For Rebuilding an Engine

In the course of recent weeks I have shed blood, sweat and very nearly a tear or two while attempting to reconstruct the 4G63 engine on my Evo I. It is the first occasion when I’ve at any point endeavored anything like this, and I have taken in one serious parcel. Thought I’d share with you 10 of the things I have found out about rebuilding an engine, basically coming about because of my own failings.

Have the correct instruments. Can’t pressure this enough. This means having a good quality arrangement of apparatuses to work with. A portion of the things I purchased and truly refreshing were spline attachments to keep screws and nuts from “camming out”, and a breaker bar. Presently on the off chance that you’ve gotten things done on your vehicle as of now you may have these, yet on the off chance that not go out and get a set. This likewise means having the correct devices for the activity. Engine rebuilding takes a couple of expert apparatuses, and while you may have the option to pull off substitutes, you may run into issues (as I did).
Do your examination. At the point when you modify, work out in the event that you are going for a stock substitution of broken/worn parts, or a full remake utilizing manufactured internals. Work out your budget and attempt to adhere to it. On the off chance that conceivable, get the production line workshop manual for your engine, or a Haynes/Chilton’s manual. Audit it before you get a wrench and make sense of what you will do and how you will do it. Surprises are good at Christmas, yet not when you’re attempting to dismantle an engine. On the off chance that you can’t discover data in there, attempt to locate a regarded source on the web. And ensure you get the CORRECT manual (for example in the event that you have a 7-jolt 4G63 engine don’t utilize a 6-jolt 4G63 engine guide and imagine that everything will be the equivalent. It won’t).
Get ready for the unexpected. Notwithstanding how well you plan and research, something sooner or later will turn out badly. A jolt will sever, a section you thought was solid will simply self-destruct as it falls off, or things won’t line up when you’re assembling everything back. At the point when it happens attempt to resist the urge to panic and contemplate what has occurred. That can be hard, and I have colossally annoyed at myself, the vehicle, things turning out badly and my moderately absence of mechanical expertise in the course of recent weeks. Be that as it may, perhaps the best thing you can do is return inside, have some tea and consider your concern and what you can do to explain it.
Anticipate that things should be more terrible than you envision. This goes hand-in-hand with number 3. On the off chance that you think you have harmed a cylinder, expect that when you drop everything out there will be more than 1 cylinder harmed. That way, if the harm is terrible it doesn’t come as a major stun to you, and in the event that it’s not all as awful as you suspected, at that point it’s a decent inspiration and confidence booster.
Pack them and tag them. Indispensable in the event that you want to spare a great deal of dissatisfaction when assembling things back. Each nut and screw you take off, put in a pack and name it well. Have the same number of packs as you want (I at present have various sacks for certain pulley jolts, fuel injector cuts, for conrod jolts… It causes things so a lot simpler when you to can simply glance through your packs and instantly discover the parts you requirement for the large of the vehicle you’re taking a shot at.

What is the difference between overhaul and rebuild?

With engines, both auto and aircraft, these terms are used frequently, along with “reconditioned”.
With aviation, there’s a degree of regulation as to what is being done to an engine; with cars, be careful what you’re paying for.
A “rebuilt” engine should be put back into like-new condition, with all parts examined and replaced if they aren’t within new tolerances.
An “overhauled” engine has new parts installed when they are worn beyond limits, but many are left in place because the wear limit hasn’t been exceeded.
Technically, an engine can be ‘reconditioned” by simply replacing what’s broken, without any disassembly beyond the obvious fault…

Facts About Does A New Engine Reset The Odometer

Both the engine and the odometer are two separate entities. The engine helps in running the vehicle while the odometer reflects the distance traveled down the road. Many people believe that when the engine is replaced for one reason or other, the mileage readings would get back to zero. Is it the truth? Let’s find out below.

1. Truth Behind Manipulating The Odometer Readings

An odometer is all about the distance that your vehicle travels since you bought it from a dealer. It is not the engine alone that manipulates the odometer readings. On the contrary, the entire mechanical block does! In simpler words, the odometer signifies the mileage of the whole car and not just the engine.

For instance, one gets a heart donor who is a younger individual. That does not imply that the recipient would turn younger, he would remain the same age. Same is the case with the engine and an odometer. the answer to, “does a new engine reset the odometer,” is no, it So does not reset the odometer.

In case, you opt for manually resetting the odometer; you would have to face legal charges. This is because the engine change status needs to be documented and the mileage change should be calculated and presented. If none of that happens, you would have to bear the dire consequences that follow.

How Can You Reset The Odometer?

As a matter of fact, it is legally not permissible to modify the odometer readings. There are people who before reselling their car think of replacing the engine. Why is that so? This is because of the misconception that the engine replacement would reset the odometer ratings that, in turn, would bring good value for the car. You need to realize that this is a mere fallacy.

It may surprise you, but if you wish to reset the odometer, you would have to go an extra mile. You would have to rework on the entire car making. Be it replacing the engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, alternator, wiring, or anything you could think of; everything together aids in resetting the odometer. Would you be ready for all of it? Practically speaking, the answer is no! For exploring more on the car related trending topics, refer to maintenance tips.

Wrapping Up

Knowing the facts about “does a new engine reset the odometer,” you would be clear that how odometer readings would never dwindle no matter what. Always remember to follow the standards and never make a decision that could end up ruining things.

The Monetary Value Of Hiring A Bookkeeping

What are the Bookkeeping rates dependent on?

Regardless of the type of your business and the level of growth, your costs for bookkeepers will depend on the following things. The first of these variables is the idea of exchanges which is finished by the business. This entails the solicitations submitted to clients and the measures of bills got and paid each month.

The second factor is involvement and area. This shows that the clerks will not charge you more than the challenge in the zones. The rates will highly depend on the local rates in the area and the rates in the specific business.

Experience will also make a difference in this regard because long experienced clerks will take advantage of their experience and charge bigger rates. To some business owners, there’s little issues with paying more for specific services. This means that they don’t have a problem paying more to make sure that the tasks being performed are exact.

Here are five tips to make small business bookkeeping easier.

1. Separate business and personal finances.

Co-mingling expenses and income is a common mistake in small business bookkeeping—and one that will cause huge headaches for your business in the future. Open a business bank account as soon as you decide to go through with your startup, and get a separate business credit card. This not only separates your accounts, but also helps your business build its own credit rating.

2. Automate whatever you can.

Entering data into spreadsheets and reconciling numbers manually is so old school. Use cloud-based bookkeeping software, and do your business banking online. That way, you can sync your bookkeeping software with your business bank account so you always have accurate, up-to-the-minute records. Plus, with the cloud, your critical financial data is backed up safely off-site.

3. Ask a pro.

Talk to your accountant to figure out if you can use off-the-shelf accounting software or if you’d benefit from customizing it. Your accountant should be able to not only offer advice but also set up the software for you and show you how to use it.

4. Perform regular financial checkups.

If you put off bookkeeping too long, you end up with bounced checks, overdue invoices or figures that don’t add up. Go over your books weekly to make sure everything is ship-shape.

5. Do a quarterly review.

At the end of each quarter, take an in-depth look at your bookkeeping and accounting records. Look for trends, such as growing or declining sales, year-over-year revenues, or an increase in late-paying customers. Talk to your accountant: He or she can help you look at the big picture so you’re better prepared for future capital needs such as buying new equipment or moving to a bigger location.

Accounting Tips for Small Businesses to Keep the Books Balanced

One reason accounting often gets put on the back burner for small businesses is that it’s tedious and intimidating. 40% of small business owners feel that financial management is the most difficult part of operating a business. When accounting mistakes occur, it can halt the growth of your small business and put you on shaky ground.

In this post, we’re rounding up the best accounting tips to avoid common mistakes that could have a detrimental impact on your business. Once you’re operating with clean books, you’ll reap the benefits that come with it.

1. Pay Close Attention to Receivables

Getting paid is the most exciting part of running a business. Managing your receivables isn’t quite as much fun. When an invoice is issued, you record a receivable, meaning you log that a customer owes you money. By checking this listing you are able to easily see if a customer has an outstanding balance.

When the customer pays you, the amount should be applied to their invoice, and it should be marked as paid. However, when you are trying to keep up with a lot of orders, this is easier said than done.Customer deposits all too often are left to reconcile at a later date since there are never enough hours in the day. That means that when tax time comes around, you are left with a lot of customer deposits in your revenue account and a report of your receivables that don’t match.

2. Keep a Pulse on Your Cash Flow

When it comes to small business accounting tips, education is everything. The more you understand the numbers in front of you, the greater your odds are at managing them well.As you perform weekly and monthly financial reviews, consider producing a cash flow statement. These statements give you a broader understanding of cash movement within (and outside) of your company. A cash flow statement essentially monitors income direction. It also includes the element of time, enabling you to visualize payment cycles and seasonal expenses.

3. Log Expense Receipts

Unfortunately, it is a common mistake for small business owners not to save copies of their expense reports. This can result in a wide range of tax, accounting, and cash flow issues. If you have ever looked at your bank statement and seen a charge for a hundred dollars and had no idea what it was, then you are familiar with the problems that come with poor record keeping.

One way you can solve this problem is by saving a receipt of every purchase that your business makes. It may seem like a lot of work but there are a few accounting tips to make it easier.

4. Record Cash Expenses

When you are an entrepreneur it is crucial that you track all the expenses related to your business. That way these costs can be subtracted from the amount of your total income when it comes time to do taxes.This will give you a more accurate sense of your overall profitability for the year. It is easy to look past expenses paid for in cash. Ask for a receipt from your vendor or log the expense immediately to ensure that it makes it on the books.

5. Know the Difference Between Invoices and Receipts

Mixing up invoices and receipts is an all-too-common way for small business owners to mess up their books. A simple piece of accounting advice to follow is to know the difference between the two.

An invoice is a bill that’s sent to customers after they’ve received your services. Think of invoices as detailed bills that should outline everything the customer has received from your company. An invoice reminds customers that they owe you money. They’re helpful for speeding up cash flow, keeping financial records, and ensuring that you’re getting paid.

Tips to Keep your Business Accounting Organized

There are many upsides to keeping your business accounting organized right from the start. This includes having an easier time doing tax returns, peace of mind that you are paying the right amount to suppliers and transparent visibility on your business finances.

With a systematic approach to business accounting in place, you can make timely decisions on cash flow and see when your business is ready for further development and growth. These five tips can help even the smallest businesses achieve a well-kept set of books and financial clarity in the long run.

1. Keep your personal and business bank accounts separate

Separate accounts will provide clarity over tax-deductible expenses the business incurs. It will also ensure you keep your overdrafts, checking account and credit cards separate from your personal ones, so that no business transactions or VAT charges are omitted.

Keeping your business and personal accounts separate is absolutely necessary to avoid confusing your transactions and being taxed the wrong amount.

2. Avoid paying expenses or bills in cash wherever possible

Other than small amounts of petty cash, it’s best not to use cash for your business transactions. Expenses paid in cash can be difficult to track and reconciling cash outgoings with receipts can be tricky and time-consuming.

Where you do have to use cash, reimburse the payer immediately using an expense form to ensure you accurately record all business transactions, VAT and any other service taxes that need to be captured.

3. Create separate records for accounts payable and receivable

Having an accounts receivable system helps you track whether your customers have paid and how overdue unpaid accounts are, so you can chase up payments and keep your cash flow smooth throughout the month.

It is also important to have a system in place for your accounts payable, which will help you ensure you aren’t duplicating or being late on your supplier payments.

4. Organize your paperwork digitally

Thanks to myriad accounting software out there today, you can say goodbye to manually filing and storing your receipts, invoices and other financial paperwork that’s integral to your business.

Keeping your books digitally also means you can securely backup your files electronically instead of storing them physically on the office premises, which goes a long way in saving space and reducing the risk of losing important business information, as well as making your documents easily retrievable when you need them.

5. Harness the flexibility of the cloud

Once you have a system in place for your digital documents, use cloud-based accounting software such as QuickBooks Online to keep your books up-to-date and stored securely.

What Skills Do I Need to Become a Bookkeeper?

Bookkeeping and accounting often get used interchangeable, however there are a few differences between the two. Both accountants and bookkeepers are essential to the successful operation of a business, and both are great assets to the financial side of things. However some people will refer to an accountant as a ‘giant sifter’, with bookkeepers being the process of pouring stuff into the sifter. You can’t be an accountant without being a great bookkeeper. So what skills do you need to be a great bookkeeper? Here are a few things to keep in mind if you’re thinking about becoming a bookkeeper.

1. Great data entry skills

Having great computer skills is a necessity when working as a bookkeeper. Knowing how to keep up with technology and being able to add in data in an accurate and timely manner is going to benefit you greatly. Touch typing skills are an added bonus that will save you time in the long haul. If you have trouble with new software changes, technology upgrades, or learning these kinds of skills quickly, you may find that you will struggle slightly with this kind of role.

2. Good communication

If working in a large company, you may be required to work alongside accountants and other departments within the company that may require your assistance. Being able to communicate with everyone easily and effectively will make your job (and everyone else’s) a lot easier. Whether it be face-to-face communication or phone and email, being able to communicate effectively is essential to the role.

3. Knowledge of bookkeeping principles

It goes without saying that you should have a great knowledge of bookkeeping, and where necessary, the essential qualifications. Understanding accounting language and having the skills and education to undertake your role is a huge part of the role. You can gain qualifications from courses and schools all across the country and they will all help in your path to gaining a role as a bookkeeper.

4. Organising records

If you’re the type of person that gets sweet relief from organising files and numbers, then you would be perfect as a bookkeeper. Being able to organise and maintain financial records is essential to the role, and it certainly helps if you enjoy working in this kind of position. If you’re more of an “outdoors” person who hates sitting in front of a PC for extended hours looking at numbers and figures, bookkeeping might not be for you.

5. Attention to detail

If you work fast, you need to also be accurate. If you like looking at the details of a project and making sure no leaf is left overturned, this is definitely going to help you in your role as a bookkeeper. Paying attention to detail not only makes for accurate workings and numbers, it also means less issues and hassles in the future for both yourself and your colleagues. Understanding that a simple mistake in one area can cause bigger issues down the track is needed to ensure you perform well in your role.

Classy Laminate Flooring Gives A Designer Feel

A Step by Step Guide to Choosing Flooring

Choosing flooring is far more complicated than just finding the best-looking product. Several other factor—moisture, durability, costs, and more—greatly influence your decision. Follow these five steps in order to reach the flooring decision that is right for you and your home.

Will Your Floor Be Installed in a High-Moisture Area?

you need flooring that is suited for a high- or medium-moisture environment, such as concrete, ceramic or porcelain tile, or vinyl tile.

Do You Need a Pet-Friendly Floor?

You will need a floor with superior wear resistance. Some flooring that appears to be wear resistant often is not. For example, site-finished solid hardwood can easily scratch. Its saving grace is that scratches can be sanded out. Instead, try a durable flooring like ceramic or porcelain tile, laminate flooring, plank vinyl flooring, or even carpeting.

What Is Your Square Footage Budget?

You will find bargain laminate flooring hovering around this price; nothing gorgeous but it has a general wood-like appearance. Sheet and tile resilient flooring can also be found in this price range. Lots of gorgeous ceramic and porcelain tile can be found in this range–but tile is truly a labor-intensive installation.

Do You Want to Install Your Flooring by Yourself?

By installing your flooring yourself, you can often cut your entire flooring cost in half. Laminate flooring and plank vinyl flooring tend to be the easiest floor coverings for homeowners to self-install. Both are floating floors, which means that each board connects to an adjacent board (not to the subfloor). Ceramic and porcelain tile installation is not as self-evident as laminate and vinyl installation. Hone your learning curve on an out-of-the-way room, like a basement bathroom.

Laminate Flooring: Reviews, Best Brands & Pros vs. Cons

Stylish

Laminate flooring is making a comeback. Recent technology has enabled manufacturers to design laminate planks that replicate wood and natural stone. The latest styles feel like the real deal, too.

Affordable

Laminate ranges in price from $1 to $11 per square foot. There’s a massive difference in quality between the two extremes. You have to be diligent when shopping around

Durable

If you have kids or pets, laminate flooring could be the solution to your problems. It holds its own against liquid assaults (though not quite as well compared to vinyl plank) and stands up to muddy pawprints like a champ

Versatile

Laminate warms up living spaces and makes bedrooms feel cozy and inviting. You can install laminate anywhere in your home. Well, almost anywhere

Allergy Friendly

Seasonal allergy sufferers take heart; laminate won’t make you sneeze. It doesn’t hold dust and dirt like carpet. It’s also resistant to bacteria and mold.

Laminate Flooring Buying Checklist

Our laminate buying checklist will help you learn what you need to know before you buy whether you buy online or at your local store. It’ll help you get all your facts straight so you can make the most informed choice and get the most for your laminate flooring dollar.

Laminate Buying Checklist

What to know.

Laminates can go virtually anywhere in a home or business but that doesn’t mean they can go everywhere. If your space will be in an area of moisture like a bathroom or laundry room, you should probably rule out laminate. You can install laminates over radiant heat and at or below grade but you must be sure to pick the right one. Talk it over with your dealer.

Which Laminate is Right for You

What to know.

Laminates sure are tough and durable—but you need to pick the right laminate for the job. If you’re laying a floor in an office exposed to lots of foot traffic, office chairs on castors and high heel shoes, you’ll need to pick a laminate with a higher AC (Abrasion Class) rating. Matching the AC rating to your needs is easy.

Which Style Should You Pick

What to know.

A properly installed laminate floor is level, even and tight fitting. It should drastically improve the look of any room. However, trying to decipher what an entire room will look like from a small sample is something most people find very difficult to do alone. Considering the cost of purchasing and installing a new floor and the fact that you won’t be doing it again anytime soon, buying an hour or two of an interior designer’s time can be very worthwhile.

Color. As a general rule of thumb, the color of an installed floor can seem darker than the sample. That’s because you may be looking at your sample near a window or in a room other than where it will be installed. It’s also sometimes difficult to imagine the color you hold in your hand multiplied by the hundreds of boards that will fill your room. Darker colors tend to absorb light and lighter colors tend to reflect it. When in doubt about color, it’s best to get a second opinion.

Grain. Every piece of wood laminate displays a grain. Some grains are bold, with swirls, bird’s eyes and notches whereas others patterns repeat, and others still display almost no grain at all. To make it even more complicated, your sample represents only one board in a floor and the other boards will display slightly different grain patterns. So, do you like a grainy floor or a floor without grain? It’s best to decide before you buy. If you find deciding too difficult, a quick consultation with a designer can help you get to know your tastes.

Laminate flooring – how to choose, install and clean your surface

Get a smart floor in record time without breaking the bank with a practical laminate option

A breeze to clean and easy on the eye, laminate flooring has improved a lot in recent years and is a credible alternative to solid wood and stone floors. It’s usually a fraction of the price of the real thing, too.

Is laminate hardwearing?

In truth, it’s not the most durable option out there, compared with porcelain tiles or engineered planks. But recent improvements in splash-safe finishes, impact resistance and scratch protection mean it will easily cope with the wear and tear of normal family life.

What are the latest trends in laminates?

Styles have become much more varied so as well as the traditional look, there are also many more unusual designs. Some designs come in interlocking planks that need no glue and just click together.

What should I look for in a laminate?

Some laminate flooring can be noisy, especially if you have pets. An underlay will help dampen sound, but also look for versions with sound insulation. Laminate is also prone to electrostatic discharges, so if you tend to get shocked by car doors and shopping trolleys, it’s worth seeking anti-static laminate. An embossed surface, with the texture of stone or timber, will also boost authenticity.

How much does laminate flooring cost?

As with most things in life, you get what you pay for with laminate flooring. Thickness is a good indicator of quality.  It is possible to buy 6mm-thick laminate, from £5-10sq m, while 8mm-thick versions are around £10-20sq m, and 10mm-thick laminate will cost in excess of £20sq m. Don’t forget to add the cost of underlay and installation to your budget.

How to choose the right laminate floor

Choosing the right laminate flooring for your home may seem a daunting task, especially with the suite of flooring available in the Australian market. Different textures, colours, grains, plank sizes and especially price points on offer may be challenges for many customers to absorb.

What type of joining system is used?

Laminate flooring is layed floating, not glued, with an innovative, yet, simple click system, called joining system, which connects the boards to each other. Many customers would not have this on their radar but having the most superior joining system for their laminate is paramount. The best joining system in the world is the Uniclic system – easy to install and providing a gap-free finish after installation. Using glue to fix the flooring to the sub floor may not be as secure.

What warranties are offered?

Warranties are such an important part of the buying process and laminate is no exception. A 25-year warranty gives you peace of mind in the long term. While a 25-year warranty may give you peace of mind in the long term, unfortunately, many long warranties are handed out prolifically and often a lot of warranties are void by default to due to impossible environmental conditions such as moisture. At times, other warranties look OK, but there is no legitimate company to back them up – either the supplier does not look after complaints or the supplier has already left the flooring market after short term profit.

How moisture resistant is the product?

Moisture is the natural enemy of any laminate floor. In most cases, the moisture resistance of a laminate floor is determined by the quality and moisture resistance of the HDF core. The harder the HDF core, the higher the quality of the laminate flooring.

Is the product reputable?

Get an understanding on how long the laminate product has been sold in Australia and has been featured in magazines and online. Great reviews are another barometer to determine if the laminate is right for you. A reputable and long standing laminate company is much more enticing than a new company who may be a flash in a pan.

Plumbing Tips For A Clogged Toilet

HOW TO UNCLOG A TOILET

Of all the clogs out there, toilet clogs are the worst…for obvious reasons. But don’t rush to call a plumber—chances are good you can banish toilet trouble on your own by taking these smart steps!

JUST SAY NO TO OVERFLOW

First, turn off the water. If your toilet is on the verge of overflowing (or has already begun to), this prevents any more water from entering your toilet and making the problem worse. Find the shutoff valve located behind the toilet, near the floor, and turn it clockwise.

PUT SOME MUSCLE (AND A PLUNGER) INTO IT

Funnel-cup plungers, with a flange extending from the bottom, are the best for toilets. First, make sure there’s enough water in the bowl to cover the bottom of the plunger. If there isn’t, pour more into the bowl. As you push the plunger down and up, remember that the upward pull is as important as the downward push, so put some muscle into it! (Just watch out for splashback.)

TRY A TOILET AUGER

OK, it’s time to take it to the next level with a handheld toilet auger. Buy one at the hardware store—just make sure the corkscrew end of the auger you put in the toilet has rubber over it, otherwise it will scratch the porcelain. Put it into the toilet hole and turn the handle clockwise. Once you’ve dislodged the obstruction, pull the auger out, give the toilet a few more plunges, and flush.

KNOW WHEN TO CALL THE PROS

Even the best of us need to know when to ask for help. If a plunger and auger still aren’t doing the trick, it’s time to call a professional.

This is The Right Way to Unclog a Toilet With a Plunger

Clogged toilets are just one of those inescapable, yucky facts of life. Rather than the fear-filled I’ll just flush it again and see what happens technique (that can end in the disaster of disgusting water sloshing all over the bathroom floor) or the simultaneously frantic and hopeful thrusts of a plunger that may or may not work, it helps to know how to unclog a toilet the right way

First, Avoid Overflows

If the toilet is clogged, avoid repeated flushing. Remove the tank lid from the toilet and finding the round rubber flapper at the center of the bottom of the tank. If the water is rising and threatens to spill over, push the flapper down over the hole to keep water from flowing into the toilet bowl. Or turn off the water at the valve (the silver almond-shaped handle, usually located behind the toilet near the floor).

Use the Right Plunger, the Right Way

The most straightforward way to unclog a toilet is to address the issue with a plunger. The first step is making sure you have the right plunger for the job.

Alternate Methods Without a Plunger

What about those times when you’re stuck without a plunger, or are too embarrassed to ask for one? Like those absolutely dreadful situations when you clog a toilet at someone else’s house? Shudder. Luckily, there are some excellent life-hacker ways to unclog a toilet without a plunger

Before You Call A Plumber

If you aren’t able to unclog your toilet with any of the methods listed above, the next step is to try a toilet auger. It’s cheaper than a plumber.

When you need a plumber for a clogged toilet?

It’s difficult to think of anything worse than a clogged toilet. It keeps you from enjoying your bathroom properly and it can cause serious distress for the whole family. There are several reasons for a clogged toilet, ranging from obstructions to build up, to improper plumbing. The reality is, despite the cause, all homeowners want is for it to be cleared and gone. Of course, you still need to figure out the cause and possibly take some steps to relieve the clog quickly and easily.

Step One: Don’t Flush Your Toilet More Than Once

To begin with, if your toilet doesn’t completely flush after your first try, then whatever you do don’t flush it again. All you will do is cause it to overflow onto your bathroom floor and pump more water into the toilet bowl unnecessarily. Start by taking the lid off your toilet tank, and close the flapper at the top to prevent more water from flowing into the bowl. The flapper is a circular rubber piece that stops water from flowing in and out of the toilet

Step Two: Prep Your Environment

After you have prevented the toilet from overflowing onto the floor, it is still a good idea to prep the environment by placing paper towels or newspapers around the bottom of the bowl. Turn on your ventilation system to keep the air fresh and prevent foul odors from filling up the room. This will make it easier to work and unclog the drain. You might also want to grab a pair of rubber gloves, and throw on some old clothes.

Step Three: Avoid Plunging if There’s an Obstruction

The next step is to see if there is an obstruction inside the pipe. You may already be aware of this if your child has thrown a toy down the pipe or something else is obstructing the water from freely flowing. If you can see the obstruction, grab your gloves and pull out the obstruction with your own hands. If you can’t see it and can’t reach it, then use your plunger gently. However, the best bet is to avoid plunging and try something else instead.

Step Four: Use a Plunger

If there is no solid obstruction, then go ahead and use your plunger. If you do, ensure that your plunger is high quality for the best results. Either a ball shaped plunger or a plunger with a fold-out rubber flange on the bottom part which forms a suction seal, is best. If your plunger is not sealing, then it’s not working. It’s also a good idea to put the plunger under hot water for a few minutes to soften it and prep it for the toilet

Why Does My Toilet Keep Clogging?

Low Flow Toilet

One common reason a toilet may frequently be clogging is that you have a first generation low flow toilet, which means your toilet is older.

You Flushed a Non-Flushable Item

Toilets are designed to only dispose of specific materials, such as human waste and toilet paper.

Clogged Trap

There is an S-shaped trap between the drain line and the bowl which can become clogged or backed up with toilet paper.

Blocked Plumbing Vent

Modern toilets use roof vents to funnel fresh air into the plumbing system and boost flushing pressure. Over time, the vents can become blocked or clogged with sticks, leaves, or even a bird’s nest.

Clogged Sewer Line

Your toilet may become clogged on a regular basis if there is a blockage in the sewer line.

Don’t Call The Plumber Just Yet: How To Unclog Your Toilet

A home toilet clog doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to call the plumber right away

Avoid an overflow situation by opening the top of the toilet and closing the “flap.” The flap is usually a round, rubber part that you can temporarily disconnect or lower, and then reconnect or raise when the clog is cleared. Or, you can turn off the water supply at the base of the toilet while you work on eliminating the clog.

Do your best to determine whether the clog is caused by organic matter or by a foreign object (like a plastic toy) before choosing a course of action

If you have one, try a plunger first. Many people mistakenly put the plunger into the hole at the bottom of the bowl instead of over it. Make sure there’s water to cover the rubber top of the plunger to create a seal. Often, people stop plunging too soon. Be patient as it may take a few minutes or more of plunging to completely clear the clog.

For organic matter clogs, try heating a pot or kettle of water on the stove. Boiling water can actually crack a toilet bowl, so make sure the water is below the boiling point. Pour a half a box (or more) of baking soda into the clogged toilet bowl, followed by an equal amount of vinegar. Then, add the hot (but not boiling) water. Let the mixture stand for several hours or overnight before you try to flush again. If you don’t have vinegar and baking soda, you can add some dish soap, shampoo, or liquid soap to the hot (but not boiling) water and let that remain in the bowl for several hours or overnight.

A Few Important Electrical Upgrades Tips

Electrical Upgrades for DIYers

Many homeowners who think nothing of tackling painting, carpentry and plumbing projects turn timid when it comes to electrical work. A little fear isn’t necessarily bad when dealing with electricity — it could keep you from making a serious mistake. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t electrical projects you can handle. All you need is an understanding of how the electrical code applies to your project and some instruction on making proper wire connections.

To safely guide you through this upgrade, we enlisted the help of electrical contractor Peter Eng, owner of Electrical Enterprises Incorporated in Litchfield County, Connecticut. It took him a day to complete all three projects. To facilitate your work, we’ve included photographs that outline the basic steps and illustrations that show all the wiring connections. Consult with an electrician if your home is wired differently than the ways illustrated

If you’re still not feeling confident, here’s an alternate approach: Run cables, install boxes, and wire in switches and outlets, then hire an electrician to make the final power hookups and check for any code violations. (Most municipalities allow you to do your own electrical work, though you’re never allowed to wire someone else’s home.) Also, get the proper permits from your local building department before starting. It’s the law, and you’ll also get the benefit of having your work checked both at the rough-in stage and when it’s completed.

Installing a Floodlight

Light up your life — or at least your backyard — with a floodlight. Our installation solves a common problem: A deck without adequate lighting for itself, a staircase, or the adjacent yard. The solution called for installing a two-lamp floodlight ($12) high up on the house wall. As with most electrical upgrades, this one relies on tapping into an existing circuit. If you’re not sure whether or not a circuit can support the upgrade, check with an electrician. An overloaded circuit is a fire hazard.

Choose a location for the floodlight on the outside of the house and bore a 1-inch-diameter hole through the wall and into the attic. Next, pick a spot for the wall switch that will operate the floodlight. The best location is directly above an existing wall outlet near the door that leads outside. Pull the wall outlet from its box but don’t disconnect it (the power should be off now). Push a snake up inside the wall to make sure there aren’t any obstructions. Then, cut a switch hole into the wall about 34 inches above the outlet.

Reasons You Need to Upgrade Your Home Electrical System

The electrical systems in a home are usually ignored by most people—until something goes wrong, at least. When a home electrical system suddenly fails, that’s when people start to take notice and try to find ways to fix it. However, it can pay to hire electrician services to make some electrical upgrades to your home sooner rather than later.

To Bring Your Home Electrical System up to Code

Building codes may vary from one year to the next, and new safety standards may have been implemented since your home electrical system was installed or updated last. Performing an electrical upgrade can help bring your home’s wiring back in line with current building codes.

To Prevent Fire Hazards

When electric system maintenance falls behind, there is a risk that frayed wires and other issues can create fire hazards. So, one reason to upgrade your home electrical system is to minimize fire risks.

To Meet the Power Needs of New Appliances

The average household consumes a lot of energy—and that amount is likely to rise as more and more modern technologies rely on electricity. In fact, according to data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), “In 2017, the average annual electricity consumption for a U.S. residential utility customer was 10,399 kilowatt hours (kWh), an average 867 kWh per month.”

To Add New Outlets for Added Convenience

Here’s a common problem: you want to move your TV to a different wall, but there aren’t any outlets near where you want to put it. Maybe the house is old enough that electrical outlets weren’t a major concern or the designer had a specific layout in mind that you don’t want to conform to. Either way, the lack of electrical sockets is going to be inconvenient for your plans.

Electrical Upgrades to Consider This Fall

Electrical Services should be your number-one destination this fall if you are looking to eliminate electrical hazards, better the performance of your electrical system, and most importantly, keep your family safe. With cooler temperatures and shorter days on the horizon, the last thing you want is outdated electrical features that will result in frequent power loss and a higher risk of electrical fires or shocks. Without these electrical upgrades you may even see your property decrease in resale value.

Electrical Upgrades for You

While there are numerous upgrades for you to consider this upcoming season, some are absolutely essential to the overall level safety and convenience in your home

GFCI Outlets: When you install a ground fault circuit interrupter in your home, you are not just guaranteeing better electrical performance; you may even guarantee you save a life or two. Perhaps that sounds a little over-the-top, but it is the truth. A GFCI outlet will greatly reduce your chances of falling victim to accidental electrocution. It is an incredibly helpful tool, especially when you consider that the American Burn Association reports that 400 deaths occur each year due to shock. Think of this upgrade as adding a gatekeeper to maintain the flow of input and output current in your home. Thanks to a built-in circuit breaker, the GFCI outlet will cut off power altogether once it detects something irregular between the input and output, single-handedly preventing shocks. These outlets should be installed in areas of your home like bathrooms and garages, where the risk of water mixing with electricity is higher.

Outlet & Switch Replacement: Have you taken a look at your home’s outlets and switches recently? Are they looking damaged beyond the point of repair? Well, it may be time for replacement, for the sake of safety and convenience. Some older homes are still equipped with two-prong outlets, which would be a reliable source of electrical power if it were still 1966. But in 2016, you need reliable three-prong outlets that will be able to meet all of your electrical power needs. Outdated outlets & switches are incredibly unsafe, so do not play any games with your safety and instead replace them with something new.

Aluminum Wiring Replacement: Similar to two-prong outlets, many older homes are also still equipped with aluminum wiring. Again, in 1966, this would have been fine, especially since aluminum was considered an acceptable wiring alternative due to the rising price of copper. However, fast forward 50 years in the future, and aluminum wiring is now considered a safety hazard. If you are living in of these unlucky homes, it is time to make the upgrade to copper wiring instead.

Smart Electrical Upgrades for Home Remodelers

If your home needs a makeover, or you’re simply planning to upgrade your decor, appliances or any other aspect of your living quarters, now is the best time to consider upgrading your home electrical system, as well. Home repair and remodeling projects often require some electrical work. As long as the electrician is on hand, you can usually save the cost of a service call by adding to the job as needed If you haven’t planned electrical upgrades, a quick look around your house might convince you that you should. Do you have receptacle outlets overburdened by multi-plug strips? Are your lamps and fixtures connected to extension cords? Does every three-prong plug need a two-prong adapter? These and other warning signs indicate a real need for electrical improvements. Unfortunately, many homeowners wait until a problem occurs, and only then do they think to call in an electrician. But there’s along list of reasons why you should inspect and improve your electrical system-before an accident or service breakdown occurs. Here are a few points to consider

Is your service adequate? Many older homes still operate with seriously outdated 60-amp electrical service-and sometimes with just a few fuses or circuit breakers to protect the entire system. Newer homes often have 100-amp service panels, but even this minimum requirement set by many current codes may fall short of your present or future needs. Consider upgrading service to 200 amps.

Size for extra demand. If you’re installing a major electrical appliance, like an electric wall oven, a microwave oven, a double-wide refrigerator or central air-conditioning, you’d better think about the additional power it may need. While a salesman or installer might tell you that your system can handle the load, be smart and ask your electrician for a second opinion.

What’s the correct wire size? Electricians often install 14-AWG wiring during renovations, which is adequate for most home uses. But heavier 12-AWG copper wire is a better choice because it’s more energy-efficient and you won’t have to upgrade all over again if you install appliances or fixtures with greater electrical loads. The cost difference for upgrading to 12-AWG copper wire is minimal. If you’re adding a room extension or building a new home, it’s a good idea to install 12-AWG wire (or larger, depending on the needs of each circuit).

Consider special needs. Different rooms in a home serve different purposes-an important consideration when you’re planning improvements, especially where electrical work is involved. Family rooms, home offices and home theaters generally need more circuits, more outlets, and built-in or plug-in power-surge protection. Outlets in kitchens, baths, garages and outdoor areas require ground-fault circuit interrupters, or GFCIs. And you don’t have to wait for a major renovation to add protection-you can install many safety devices yourself, such as outlet caps, switch guards and wire shields in nurseries and children’s playrooms.

ELECTRICAL UPGRADES

Electrical upgrades to your home aren’t the first thing that you might think about when you consider a remodeling project. After all, it’s much more interesting to think of adding an extra room or upgrading your kitchen appliances and countertops. However, upgrading your wiring can be an extremely beneficial thing to do, and in some cases, it might be a safety priority.

REASONS YOU MIGHT NEED AN ELECTRICAL UPGRADE

You might need upgrades to your wiring or other electrical systems in your home for many reasons, but here are some of the most common.

COMMITMENT TO CUSTOMER SERVICE

No matter what electrical upgrades you need, the electricians from our Kankakee store are here to make sure you get the job done right. Our commitment to customer service means that you get the following when you choose Home Furniture, Plumbing & Heating for your electrical work

FRIENDLY, RESPECTFUL SERVICE

We aim to be both friendly and respectful in the way that we interact with you at all times. We want you to feel comfortable and at ease, and we want you to feel that your questions and comments will always be heard and answered.

ON-TIME SERVICE

Part of keeping our word is keeping our appointments, and we aim to offer you on-time service for your appointments that you set with us

The Benefits Of Utilizing Commercial Cleaning Services

Tips to Help You Choose the Right Commercial Office Cleaning Company

When it comes to keeping the office clean, a lot of businesses have an important decision to make: should they add a cleaning crew to the company payroll, or hire a commercial cleaning company to handle those duties? While there are pros and cons to both approaches, there are greater reasons that indicate outsourcing this work is the best option.

A commercial cleaning company understands every aspect of what it takes to not only keep your office sparkling clean. It also understands the extent to which a very clean office makes a favorable impression on clients. They’re also willing to work with you on the hours you need from them, what their tasks should cover, and what kind of qualifications you want their workers to have.

Do a thorough background check

When it comes time to find a commercial cleaning company for your office, it’s important to ask the right questions. Because you can ensure you get the best service available – and at the right price. Find out how many days they work and the hours they’re available. Especially if you want the work done after your office closes for the day and your employees have gone home.

Ask for references from companies they’ve worked for

When selecting a commercial cleaning company, you should do a little research on their reputation. Check out their customer satisfaction reviews and the company’s overall standing within the local business community

Ask if they have liability insurance

All prospective commercial cleaning companies should be able to provide proof of insurance and demonstrate that they’re fully licensed. You should ask to see their general and workers compensation certificates. Also, look for a company that hires regular employees rather than cash workers; they’re the ones that carry insurance against liability and injury if an accident should happen in your office while they’re on the job – this protects both you and the cleaner. And absolutely do NOT forget to verify their business license.

How to Choose the Best Commercial Cleaning Company!

A clean and sanitary office or business facility is necessary for success. Your customers expect nothing less and your employees will thank you for it! But, how does a business choose the best commercial cleaning company?

What Is a Commercial Cleaning Company?

First, let’s define what a commercial cleaning company is. A commercial cleaning company is a business-to-business janitorial vendor. They provide custom cleaning programs for businesses in most industries and settings. They generally perform cleaning services after-hours to avoid interruption to business operations. However, many settings require daytime cleaning as well, such as the common areas of high traffic buildings

Reputation and Experience

Trust is necessary when hiring a business facility cleaner. Why? Cleaning company employees will be in your facility, often after hours, and after you and your employees have gone home for the day. Thus, your cleaning company is responsible for working diligently and in a professional manner with minimal direct supervision.

How can you gauge a cleaning company’s trustworthiness? These vetting baselines can help:

Years Of Experience: Choose a company that’s well-established in your service area and with years of experience.

Industries Served: Investigate the types of industries, buildings, and settings the cleaning has experience servicing.

References: The most reputable cleaning companies will be happy to share references!

Employee Training and Screening

The best commercial property cleaners view hiring as a critical responsibility. They hire only the most qualified and trustworthy employees, and they provide their staff with formal and consistent training to ensure quality and safety

How to Choose the Right Commercial Cleaning Service For You

Are you looking for commercial cleaning services but aren’t sure how to find a company that best suits your needs? Working with professional cleaners can help create a better and safer work environment. That’s why it’s so important to find a company you feel more than just satisfied with. When searching for commercial cleaners, you may feel overwhelmed with so many options. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you choose the right cleaners for you, your employees, and your workplace

With so many different options available, you may have trouble choosing commercial cleaners that will be work best for you and your workplace

Knowledgeable Staff

When you work with a great cleaning service, you will quickly discover that they know the right techniques to provide a thorough clean and proper sanitation. They will also know exactly how and when to use certain tools and machinery.

Dependable

A professional cleaning company will be dependable and reliable. You should never have to guess when your cleaners will arrive at your office. A professional, experienced cleaning company will work closely with their clients to create a cleaning schedule that works well for everyone.

Affordable

When you work with a professional cleaning service, you should feel good about what you are paying. That’s not to say that cheapest is necessary better! Remember that if something looks way too good to be true, it usually is!

Tips To Consider When Choosing A Commercial Cleaning Company

Find Out More About the Company’s Policy on Staff Training Requirements

The cleaning company you are considering should be one that offers its new staff comprehensive training, prepares its workforce to use the latest cleaning equipment and materials, and continually educates them on the latest health and safety protocols and new cleaning techniques.

Examine their Standards and Certifications

It is imperative to ensure that the cleaning company you are considering holds the highest certifications and maintains/adheres to stringent standards of cleaning excellence such as the Sunshine Quality Assurance Program. Also, make sure that the company is fully insured and bonded.

Find Out If They Are Committed to Green Cleaning

Green cleaning refers to taking a more holistic approach to cleaning and caring for buildings, those inhabiting them,

Green cleaning not only minimizes the impact cleaning equipment and products have on the environment, but it also reduces the exposure of harmful cleaning residues to humans.

steps to choosing the right cleaner

Recent studies say that having a clean office space increases work productivity. It is imperative to have a clean and adequately maintained office premises to have a positive impact on your customers and motivate your employees. Most business owners find it essential to hire professional cleaning services for the cleanliness and hygiene of their workplaces

Check online reviews

This should be the first step for searching for suitable commercial cleaners as it will provide you with quick and easy results for you to check credibility, authenticity and reliability as well. Online reviews are also a great way to compare cleaning companies and the quality of their services. Facebook, the commercial cleaning companies websites and also Linkedin are a good start

Compare quotes

Once you are done with your research, shortlist a few companies, get in touch with them and arrange an onsite assessment. The companies will give you all the details of the services they provide along with the charges and some may even visit your office to get the details. This is a great chance to ask any additional questions you may have.

Reputation

Ask for references!!! Call the commercial cleaning company’s current customers if you want to know more about the business. Some of its clients and customers would be able to tell you whether the organisation is honest and reliable. They will tell you about the quality of their services. A good reputation will be proof of its credibility and excellent services

Experience

Considering the experience of the cleaning company is an essential factor. Experience will be a proof that they have developed a proper system and can easily handle any cleaning issues involved.