Contractor Tips Blog

Jan
29

Golf Carts Are Not Just For The Course

Posted in Golf Carts

When most people think of a golf cart, they imagine hitting eighteen holes on a well manicured, green course. Actually, golf carts are used in a variety of venues as a quick and affordable transportation vehicle. From businesses to personal street use, there are many ways to use these economical carts, which use very little energy and may cost much less than you would think. 

Types Of Golf Carts

There are several varieties of personal golf carts which are used as on-site transportation, as well as larger vehicles which can be street legal for use on city roads with lower speed limits. Most carts can be either gas or electricity powered, usually seating between two and six people. Some of the options that these carts can come in include: 

  • Utility carts. Generally, utility carts are smaller than some of the larger golf carts, usually with one bench seat or two bucket seats. These are great little vehicles for use on commercial properties such as college campuses, resorts, parks and other businesses that are expansive.
     
  • Custom golf carts. Many golf carts can be ordered with a variety of features, such as larger wheels, rear-view mirrors, lift kits and custom paint jobs.
     
  • Street legal carts. In many towns, golf carts which are equipped with a street legal kit can drive on city roads with speed limits of less than 35 MPH. These are great for homeowners who need a quick way to get to the store, or just to visit the neighbor a few blocks down the road. 

Although you will still see these open air carts on the course, don’t be surprised when you see them at many other places and in a variety of uses. Airports, retirement communities and many other businesses are finding golf carts are a great way to cater to their customers needs.

Posted on behalf of Top Dog Golf Carts

Jan
29

Adding Metal Stairs To Your Next Project

Posted in Metal Stairs

Whether you’re in the process of building a two story commercial property or a tree house for the kids, part of the design will revolve around the types of stairs you want to use. While wood and cement are popular materials for stairs, it can be more difficult to create unique designs with these materials. Custom fabricated metal stairs can be made to fit in with almost any design, and have many other benefits as well. 

Benefits Of Metal Stairs

Design flexibility is one of the biggest benefits of using metal versus other materials when adding a staircase to a building project. Metal can easily be fabricated into a spiral staircase, a drop down ladder for a tree house or even into a three-story staircase which needs to fit in a small space. Some other benefits of using metal as your staircase material includes: 

  • Longevity. Metal will last for decades, and will not rot or be vulnerable to termites like wood.
     
  • Cleaning. Metal can be easily cleaned and does not harbor mold and mildew the way other materials can.
     
  • Versatile. Stairs made of metal can be used indoors or out, and can be made in a variety of sizes, shapes and designs. They are easy to paint; specific designs or images can also be added to make them unique.
     
  • Turn-key. Metal staircases can be made to order from a quality metal fabricator, arriving ready to be attached to the project. 

For many projects, a metal staircase may be the perfect solution, especially when you need a material which can be customized, is built to last and is easy to maintain.

Posted on behalf of LCG Welding, LLC

Jan
29

Add Elegance To Your Home With Metal Railings

For many people, the word “elegant” isn’t always the first one to come to mind when they think of metal. However, custom made metal railings can be incredibly beautiful and add a certain elegance to decks, stairways and patios. Metal is extremely versatile when in the hands of a talented fabricator who can lend artistic design to what is one of the most durable materials available. 

Ideas For Metal Railings

There are many places where metal railings can be used both for functionality and design in your home. Also, when they’re custom crafted, these railings can reflect your personal tastes and compliment your existing home design and décor. Some ideas on where to add metal railings: 

  • Enclose your deck. Make your deck safer as well as more beautiful with a metal railing. Choose an eye-catching pattern such as leaves or flowers to have incorporated into the railing, or an element which complements your overall outdoor design scheme.
     
  • Stair railings. Add railings to your outdoor steps for safety or to interior stairs for beauty. Metal railings can be easily made for any size or shape of stairway, even spiral.
     
  • Room divider. A decorative metal railing can be a great way to divide a large room, separating without closing off the space. Railings can be ornate, as well as painted to match the existing design. 

Metal railings are not only versatile and elegant, they are easy to maintain and can last for decades. They are easy to clean and take care of, not needing to be polished or constantly stained. Even those used outdoors can be easily protected from rust with paint or other coatings. For your next home project, consider adding a beautiful metal railing to give your home a unique and custom look.

Posted on behalf of LCG Welding, LLC

Jan
29

Don’t Throw Away Your iPhone, iPad or iPod!

Most families have some type of “i” device, from iPods to iPhones. These devices have become a large part of our lives, and are continuously changing and upgrading to the next level of technology. As new models come available, the old model with a cracked screen or which just isn’t as cool as the newer version often gets thrown into a drawer and never used again. Even though it’s used and an older model, that device may still be valuable to someone else. Do not throw that old device away; instead get it repaired or even it sell it for cash. 

What to Do With Your Old “i” Devices

With the expanse of these products, another industry has evolved to fix, buy and sell the old models as they are replaced. Instead of throwing away your devices, you can have them repaired or sell them to be refurbished so someone else can enjoy them. Consider these options: 

  • Broken devices. You can have iPad, iPod, or iPhone repaired and keep it as a backup, give it to a friend or family member or even donate it to charity. There are even do-it-yourself repair kits for simple fixes, such as missing screws.
     
  • Get cash. Whether your iPhone, iPad, or iPod is damaged or in good condition, you can sell it for money. Companies that repair these models often offer a decent price to buy your old devices, even ones that do not work. 

The great thing about either repairing or even selling your older device is that instead of ending up cluttering up your home or in a garbage can, the device can still be used and enjoyed.

Posted on behalf of iDevice MD

Jan
17

Add Curb Appeal With A Paver Driveway

Posted in Paver Driveways

Your driveway is one of the first things people see when they approach your home, making it the perfect place to add to your home’s curb appeal! Paver driveways add a classic look that can be tailored to your homes exterior design and add a touch of class to any home. In addition, they are functional, low maintenance and are easier to repair than many other types of driveway surfaces. 

Be Creative With Your Paver Driveway

Paver driveways can be designed with a variety of different types of materials, colors and patterns, making them perfect for creating a unique look to the exterior of your home. You can choose the size, shape, color and type of paver you want to use, along with how they will be placed. Some of the options you can choose from include: 

  • Natural pavers – If you want a natural stone for your driveway, consider tumbled marble or travertine pavers.
     
  • Formed pavers – For homeowners with specific shapes and colors in mind, concrete or clay pavers are and ideal solution. These versatile pavers allow for more creative freedom and greater customization.
     
  • Artistic design – From classic patterns to detailed geometric designs and even pictures or letters, your paver driveway can reflect your artistic vision. Work with a local contractor to make your vision come to life. 

A paver driveway is an investment in your home, both to add to the curb appeal and as a functional feature. To ensure it’s done right and will last for many years to come, hiring an experienced contractor that specializes in paver driveways is prudent. With the right installation and proper maintenance, your paver driveway will last for decades, and add to the beauty and value of your home.

Posted on behalf of Tri County Pavers & Design

Jan
17

Expand Your Cooking Space With An Outdoor Kitchen

No one wants to be stuck inside cooking when it is beautiful outside. A custom outdoor kitchen on your patio or deck can give you more space to cook while enjoying the sun and the company of your family or guests. In addition, you can cut down on cooling expenses by doing your cooking outside without heating up your home during the warmer months. 

Creating An Outdoor Kitchen That Is Beautiful And Functional

For many families, the backyard or patio is the main area for entertaining and spending time together, making it a perfect place to add a custom kitchen area. Whether you just want to add counter space around an outdoor grill to make it more functional or you want the versatility of a full kitchen outdoors, you can design this area to blend with your décor and be useful at the same time. 

  • Add natural rock – Give your outdoor kitchen a rustic theme by using natural rock as the exterior of your cabinet and counter area.
     
  • Easy cleaning – Stainless steel appliances are perfect for an outdoor kitchen,as they’re easy to clean and maintain.
     
  • Outdoor plumbing – Add a sink and wash area so that cleaning can be done outside, keeping your indoor kitchen free of the mess.
     
  • Match your patio – Use bricks, pavers or other stones for your kitchen enclosures that match the rest of your patio, making your kitchen blend perfectly with the rest of your outdoor area. 

Consult a professional outdoor kitchen contractor who can help you make the most of your patio. Together, you can create a beautiful cooking area for family gatherings, entertaining or just to give you a cool place to make dinner. It can add to both the functionality of your patio as well as the value of your home.

Posted on behalf of Tri County Pavers & Design

Jan
17

Create A Pest-Free Yard For Your Family

Posted in Insect Control

There is nothing better than relaxing in your yard with your family and friends. Some of the best memories can be those times right at home, with your loved ones out enjoying the sun while food is cooking on the grill. Unfortunately, these good times can be ruined when pests take over your yard and begin to make a meal out of your guests as well as putting everyone’s health at risk. Protect these precious memories and your family’s health by creating a pest-free yard with an automated pest control system. 

Benefits Of An Automated Pest Control System

Bug sprays, zappers and other pest control systems only focus on one or a few pests that can invade your backyard. For a truly pest-free yard, the best solution is an automated misting system that targets over a hundred different types of bugs consistently, and is safe for your family and pets. Some of the other benefits of an automated pest control system include:

  • Killing biting pests – Stop mosquitoes, biting flies, ticks, bees and fleas from biting your family, guests and pets. Not only are biting bugs annoying, they can carry dangerous diseases.
     
  • Safe insecticide – Choose a system that uses pyrethrum, an insecticide that kills most types of insects yet is safe for humans, pets and other mammals.
     
  • Automated mist – These reliable systems mist your yard on an automated schedule, keeping pests at bay around the clock. 

Keep those bugs away and create a safe, comfortable pest-free yard with the use of an automated pest control system. You can finally relax and enjoy time in your yard with your family and friends without all those uninvited pests! Call an experienced installation professional to discuss the best automated pest control system for your property.

Posted on behalf of Mosquito Free Back Yards

Jan
17

Give Your Home A Face-Lift With A Pressure Wash

Weather and time can wreak havoc on your home’s exterior. Decks can fade from brown to gray, pavers can become dull and roofs and siding can grow moss and fungi, taking away from the beauty of your home. Luckily there is a weapon to take away the grime and give your home a face-lift: a professional pressure wash. 

Why Hire A Professional Pressure Washing Company?

Although many homeowners may own a pressure washer, there are benefits to hiring a professional, especially for those big jobs. While a home pressure washer may be fine for spraying down the driveway or washing your car, there are jobs it may not be suited for. Improperly using a pressure washer can damage your home and may end up doing more harm than good. Some reasons to hire a professional pressure washing company for certain home cleaning jobs include: 

  • Protecting surfaces – Certain surfaces such as painted homes and decks or roofs can be ruined with improper pressure washing.
     
  • Environmental issues – Most areas have laws regarding the types of cleaners that can be used in conjunction with a pressure washer, as well as laws on collecting gray or run-off water.
     
  • Safety – Protect your own safety by hiring a professional to do high areas, which can be hazardous to the do-it-yourselfer. 

Pressure washing can make an noticeable difference in the way your home looks, and even protect it from damage when done correctly. Scheduling a professional pressure washing to give your home a needed face-lift can add to the curb appeal and beauty of your home, and is well worth the investment.

Posted on behalf of Impact Pressure Washing

Jan
17

Extend The Life Of Your Roof With Pressure Washing

Your home’s roof is a large investment, one which needs proper care and maintenance to last. Over time, debris, mildew and other elements can damage your roof as well as make it look dirty and dingy. Annual pressure washer cleanings can make a significant difference in how long your roof lasts, as well as how it looks. It’s best, however, to have a professional pressure washing company clean your roof in order to protect your investment as well as your safety. 

Dangers Of Pressure Washing Your Roof

Although pressure washing can be one of the best ways to clean and extend the life of your roof, it can also harm your roof and be dangerous if done incorrectly. Experienced professional pressure washing companies use low pressure roof cleaning techniques, along with special formulas to safely clean and protect your roof. If you decide to try and pressure your roof yourself, you could be in danger of hurting both yourself and your roof. Some of the dangers include: 

  • Destroying shingles – High pressure or hitting shingles at the wrong angle can loosen and remove shingles, causing possible leaks and need for repair.
     
  • Damaging roofing material – With improper use of a pressure washer, roofing materials can be damaged, shortening the life of your roof by years.
     
  • Personal injury – Don’t risk life and limb climbing on your roof. Let an insured, professional who is trained and has the correct equipment clean your roof. 

While pressure washing can extend the life of your roof and make it look like new again, doing it incorrectly can actually damage it more in the long run. Replacing or even repairing a roof can be very expensive, so be wise and invest in using a professional pressure washing company for your next roof cleaning.

Posted on behalf of Impact Pressure Washing

Jan
17

Get Creative With Your Powder Room Design

Posted in Interior Design

Many homes have a guest bathroom or powder room, a space which is often overlooked when it comes to unique and intriguing home décor. These little half-baths are the ultimate place to be creative and add to the overall look of your home. By adding some interesting fixtures or going with an elaborate theme, you can turn these small spaces into a beautiful place for your guests. 

Make Your Powder Room Unique

The great thing about powder rooms is that they are small and have very little clutter to get in the way of design. Most powder rooms have only a sink and toilet, with little need for storage or special lighting. This provides the perfect canvas for exciting colors and fixtures which may be to bold for other rooms of your home. Some ideas for creating a unique and memorable powder room design include: 

  • Rich colors – While a dark red wall may be too much in other rooms, a small powder room is the perfect place to add deep and rich colors.
     
  • Exotic themes – Use this small space to explore decorating with creative themes such as a Asian or African motif.
     
  • Modern fixtures – There are so many interesting bathroom fixtures available, yet may not be practical in other bathrooms. The powder room gives these fixtures a place to truly shine.
     
  • Artful lighting – Most bathrooms must have a certain light quality to make putting on makeup or styling work. Because these spaces aren’t usually a primary space for homeowners to get ready in the morning, powder rooms do not need specific lighting. Play with different types of light fixtures and lighting options. 

Most people who visit your home will use your powder room, so make it a place they will enjoy with creative design. For more ideas, consult with a professional designer to learn more about what you can do to make your powder room the jewel of your home.

Posted on behalf of J Christopher Services

Most Popular

How Often Should You Service Your Golf Cart?

Just like any other vehicle, a golf cart needs routine maintenance to keep it running smoothly and efficiently. And just like other vehicles, what kind of cart you have depends…

Quality Metal Stairs for Apartments

Metal stairs for apartment complexes come in a variety of styles, shapes, and sizes.  And, as with any building that’s accessible by the public, safety is top priority. Apartment complex…

Pros and Cons of Smartphone Insurance

Many people spend more on their smartphones than on computers – a new iPhone can cost several hundred dollars or more. Most wireless carriers and manufacturers offer insurance for a…