Contractor Tips Blog

Aug
28

Kitchen Remodeling

Posted in Interior Design

One of the most dramatic of all home improvement projects is a complete remodeling of the kitchen.  A professional kitchen remodeling can also add a great deal of value to any existing home, as in today’s world, people want gourmet kitchens that are well thought out, functional and have sufficient space to act as a gathering place for the modern family. 

An experienced kitchen remodeling contractor who offers both kitchen design and kitchen remodeling services is an alternative that should be seriously considered by any homeowner considering such a project.  Kitchen remodeling projects are fairly complex projects with long lead times on such things as kitchen cabinets and countertops.  In is critical that these items be ordered correctly before the projects starts in order to avoid delays. 

An experienced kitchen designer will be able to correctly prepare drawings that will allow the contractor to order the cabinets with confidence that the layout and dimensions are correct.   Often delays in kitchen remodeling projects are the result of design issues due to the lack of experience by the designer.  An experienced contractor will have the ability to accurately schedule and execute the project, while minimizing the amount of time necessary to complete the kitchen remodeling.  They will have access to the best and most experienced subcontractors in the marketplace as well.  In kitchen remodeling nothing beats an experienced firm that offers both kitchen design as well as construction services! 

A qualified and experienced contractor that is licensed and insured will be able to make your dreams reality.  They will be able to provide both design and constructions services to complete the kitchen remodeling project on time and on budget!

Aug
28

Paver Driveway Maintenance

Posted in Paver Driveways

Driveways constructed with either concrete pavers, tumbled marble pavers or clay brick pavers are extremely durable and generally only require minor maintenance to keep them looking new.  Often the paver driveway maintenance required is limited to fixing low spots or areas that have heaved.  Occasionally, specialized cleaning may be required as well, in order to remove stubborn stains. 

One of the more common repairs is resetting the pavers due to settlement.  In most cases, pavers are set on a combination of a stone base and a layer of sand, both of which are set on existing soils that are sufficiently strong enough to support a driveway.  While the stone and sand are compacted prior to installation, some settlement can occur over time.  Often this is the result of an unusually heavy vehicle, such as a large delivery truck or a tractor-trailer combination, driving on the pavers.  The repair is simple as the impacted pavers are removed, with additional sand being applied and then leveled off.  The pavers are then reset and tamped into place to create a level surface. 

Heaving of pavers does not occur as much and is generally the result of prolonged freezing temperatures or tree roots.  Heaving can also result in the case of expansion due to heat.  As with low spots, the repair is simple with the first step being the removal of the pavers in the impacted area.  The excessive amount of sand is removed and then the pavers are then reinstalled.  The entire are is then compacted using a plate tamper.  The installation of an expansion joint may also be required. 

Sometimes paver maintenance will include the removal of stubborn stains for the face of the pavers.  The paving contractor specializing in paver maintenance has access to a number of specialized cleaning solutions and techniques that are often successful in removal of the stain, without damaging the surface of the paver.  In the event that the technician cannot remove the stain, they can replace the stained area quickly and economically. 

A qualified licensed and insured contractor that specializes in paver maintenance can perform the maintenance quickly, economically and with little to no disruption to your home of business.

Aug
28

Advantages of Paver Driveways

Posted in Paver Driveways

Tired of sealing your asphalt driveway every year?  Tired on looking at the stains on your concrete driveway?  If so, a new driveway constructed with pavers is a great long-term driveway solution, as they require very little maintenance and repairs of damaged areas is very easy.  In addition, to being a very stable surface because of the interlocking characteristics of the pavers, they add a great deal of character and value to any home or business!  

There are a wide variety of options available for new paver driveways including concrete pavers, tumbled marble pavers and clay brick pavers.  Each type of paver has dozens of shapes and colors available, such as Ivory Shell Stone, Burnt Oak Dry Mix and Tropical Blend Grey Mix.  In addition, they can be installed in a number of patterns, including 45 degree Herringbone, 90 degree Herringbone, Basketweave, and Symetry Diamond patterns to mention a few.  There are many more colors and patterns available with something being available to every budget!  In the event that repairs are needed at some point in the future, the damaged area is simply removed and new pavers are installed.  As the pavers are very durable, most of the repairs are related to the staining of the paver from oil or other fluids leaking automobiles. 

A qualified, licensed and insured contractor, who specializes in the design installation and repairs of paver driveways, can complete the project quickly, neatly and economically.  Do not let that asphalt or concrete driveway detract from the appearance of your home or business any longer!

Aug
28

Low Pressure Roof Cleaning

Have you ever noticed black stains on residential or commercial roofs?  If so, it is more than likely mildew stains, which have built up over time due to the weather and the exposure to the elements.  Often the heavy presence of trees around the structure promotes the growth of the mildew, especially on shaded sections of the roof where the sun is unable to dry out the roof properly after rain events.  These stains really detract from the appearance of the home or business and can shorten the life of asphalt shingles.  However, low pressure roof cleaning will remove the mildew and restore the appearance of the roof. 

A qualified pressure washing contractor who specializes in low pressure roof cleaning is critical to getting the job done without damaging the roof or the interior of the building.  The contractor’s trained technicians will first apply a special non-toxic cleaner to the roof, which effectively treats mildew and other stains on the roof.  After the cleaner has been given time to work, the technician will then use low pressure water to clean the roof, taking care that water does not get under the shingles, as well as making sure that the shingles are not damaged in the washing process.  Interior water damage of ceilings is likely if water gets under the shingles!  In addition, traditional power washing of a roof will more than likely damage the roof, especially when done by an inexperienced technician. 

A qualified licensed and insured pressure washing contractor who specializes in low pressure roof cleaning can complete this work economically and quickly without damaging the home, building or the landscaping.  Often this service is combined with traditional power washing services of the remainder of the home or business, leading to a significantly improved appearance!

Aug
28

Pressure Washing

Often, owners will find mildew, dirt and other stains gathering on fences, pool decks, wood decks, sidewalks, driveways, vinyl siding, Hardiplank siding, gutters and window and door casing.  These stains are unsightly and detract from the overall appearance of your home or business. Nothing does more to improve the look of a home or a business than having the exterior surfaces pressure washed by a professional Alpharetta pressure washing contractor on a regular basis!  

There is more to pressure washing that meets the eye.   A combination of the right equipment, as well as the proper cleaning solutions and cleaning techniques being performed by an experienced technician, is key to properly cleaning the exterior of the home or business, without causing damage.  It is very easy to cause permanent damage to the building products being cleaned due to the very high pressure that the equipment delivers the water. 

An example of this would be when inexperienced person attempts to pressure a wood deck, they often gouge the wood with the water.   Another example would be a water being directed full force on a window frame and water getting into the home causing water damage to the floor.  This is a very common issue, as windows are not designed to keep water out when directed at them under this much pressure.  In addition, incorrect cleaning solutions can cause damage to plants found around the structure.  

A professional residential and commercial pressure washing contractor that is licensed and insured can complete this work quickly and without damaging the components of the structure quickly and economically!

Aug
28

Home Security Myths Everyone Should Know About

Posted in Home Security

Myths can be dangerous, especially when they affect the security of your home and loved ones.

Therefore, please take a few moments to discover five of the most dangerous myths that can put you, your family, and your home at risk for burglary.

HOME SECURITY MYTH #1 – My home is safer because crime rates have decreased

Fact: Despite the nation’s crime rates dropping over the last 10 to 20 years, many areas and neighborhoods have unfortunately experienced a significant increase in home burglaries.  And, the typical value of goods stolen from homes has almost doubled from 1994.

HOME SECURITY MYTH #2 – My home in the suburbs is safer because there are fewer criminals here

Fact: The reality is that most home burglaries are committed by a person who generally lives within 1 to 2 miles of your home.

HOME SECURITY MYTH #3 – My jewelry is secured in a safe, so I have nothing to worry about

Fact: Today, robbers aren’t just looking for jewelry. Electronic devices, computers, and home appliances are often targeted by burglars. Furthermore, most burglars seek to steal items that are easy to conceal, such as iPhones, iPads, etc.

HOME SECURITY MYTH #4 – I’m home during the evening and night, so I don’t have to worry about burglars

Fact: Burglars are smarter than you think. While you’d think burglars will only target your home during the night (when it’s dark), burglars take advantage of daylight hours when the family is away from home, typically between 10 AM and 3PM.

HOME SECURITY MYTH #5 – If my home was burglarized while I’m here, then I can respond fast enough to stop it

Fact: The fact is that most burglars are in and out of your home in about 9 to 10 minutes. Therefore, it’s best to have a home security system with monitoring that alerts the local police upon the burglar’s entry.

 

Aug
28

Keeping Your Home Safe While Away on Vacation

Posted in Home Security

Taking a vacation requires more than simply remembering to pack everything in your suitcases. It’s also important to make sure that your home is secure while you’re gone. In the thrill of the moment, with thoughts of enjoying your time away, it’s quite easy to forget something as simple as locking your doors. 

While a home alarm system is perhaps the best way to protect your home, you can do the following to further ensure your home isn’t burglarized. After all, there’s no worse way to ruin a vacation than returning to find your home has been burglarized.

INDOOR LIGHT TIMERS

Using indoor light timers gives your home the appearance of being occupied. 

There have been major improvements with indoor light timers. Modern timers are digital and provide you the option of varying the times when particular lights turn on and off. This deters even the most cunning burglar who does his homework – noticing patterns of when your lights are on and off each day.

LOCKED CAR

If possible, you might consider leaving one of your cars locked and in your driveway. This gives the appearance that someone is home. Of course, you need to remove all valuables, keys, cell phones, laptops, garage door opener, etc. from your car.

GOOD NEIGHBORS

Ask a neighbor or family member you trust to make sure trash cans, packages, newspapers, and flyers are not left outside your house. Have someone bring your trash cans in after your trash is picked up.  You might also consider having someone housesit or stay at your home for either a few days or the entire duration of your vacation.

HOME SECURITY SYSTEM

While the tips above are quite helpful in deterring your home from being burglarized, there’s nothing like a home security system. Home security systems provide your home protection around the clock – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

If you’re serious about protecting your home while away on vacation, there’s perhaps no better way to do that than by having a professionally installed home security system.

Aug
28

Finding Reliable iPhone Repair on the Internet

Posted in iPhone Repairs

The moment your iPhone screen cracks or stops working can be horrible.

Once this happens, you have to consider the various options for fixing your iPhone. You want an option that is both affordable and reliable. Returning your iPhone to its manufacturer often takes considerable time and money – it’s both time-consuming and expensive. Therefore, if you want your iPhone fixed both quickly and inexpensively, you might consider a reliable online iPhone repair company.

Two Important Considerations

When selecting an iPhone repair company on the web, you should first consider the devices they repair.

  1. Do they only repair one model of iPhones, or is their staff well trained to repair various iPhone models? It’s usually better to work with an iPhone repair company that services different models of iPhones. This shows that they are reputable and knowledgeable.
  2. How long will it take them to repair and return your iPhone? Perhaps the best online iPhone repair companies are those with physical locations. This often allows for fast repair time as they have workers and the necessary materials onsite to service your iPhone.

Two Major Benefits

  1. The first major benefit of working with an online repair company for your iPhone is that it’s typically less expensive than returning the phone to the manufacturer for repairs. Even with insurance, manufacturer repairs are normally more costly than those completed by an online iPhone repair company.
  2. The second major benefit is speed. Unlike the manufacturer that’s overloaded with phone calls, problems, and devices to repair, an online iPhone repair company can give you and your device complete attention. As a result, your device is often returned to you much more quickly than if returned to the manufacturer.

Taking all the above into consideration, a reliable online iPhone repair company is certainly a fast and affordable option.

Posted on behalf of Dru Pio, iDeviceMD

Google

Aug
28

Repairing Your iPhone Screen Instead of Buying a New iPhone

Posted in iPhone Repairs

Most people enter a 2-year contract with their wireless or cell phone provider when purchasing a new iPhone.

Oftentimes, you’ll receive a discount or subsidy from your wireless provider who reduces the cost of your new iPhone from as much as $599 to about $199. Your wireless provider is quite comfortable offering you such a discount because they usually bind you to at least 2 years of service. Typically, this is a win-win for your wireless provider and you…as long as your iPhone is still operational for the entire two years. If not, then you’ll find yourself in quite a dilemma.

Your iPhone Dilemma

The reason for such a dilemma is because you simply can’t purchase another iPhone for the discount rate ($199). The discount or subsidy provided by your wireless provider only covers your first device.

Therefore, if your iPhone’s screen gets cracked or shatters, you won’t be able to use your device. In such cases, you’ll end up paying full price ($599 or more) to get a replacement phone. And, even purchasing a used iPhone is often a bit more expensive than getting a new discounted iPhone from your wireless provider.

Knowing Your Options

It’s important and beneficial to know what options you have if your iPhone screen needs repair. Depending on the damage done, your iPhone’s warranty may cover it. But, it also may not.

Therefore, if you’re in a situation in which your iPhone repairs are not covered by warranty, then your best option is to find a specialist that can repair your iPhone’s screen. An iPhone screen repair company is perhaps your most inexpensive option. Otherwise, you’ll have to lay down hundreds of your hard-earned dollars to replace your iPhone. So, if you want to avoid the unnecessary expense of a new iPhone, simply find a reputable company to fix the screen. This can save you lots of cash.

Posted on behalf of Dru Pio, iDeviceMD

Google

Aug
28

How Mosquito Misting Services Work

Posted in Insect Control

The effectiveness of automatic misting systems is evident by the fact that professionals have been using them for over three (3) decades. Automatic misting systems allow you and your family to fully enjoy your home – both indoors and outdoors. Furthermore, automatic insect misting systems eliminate mosquitoes without using harsh or toxic chemicals. 

This allows you, your family, and your guests to enjoy your patio area, pool, and other areas where you might choose to host parties, gatherings, or simply meals. After all, you should be able to socialize and engage in outdoor activities during the beautiful warm seasons without being terrorized by mosquitoes.

Pyrethrum – All Natural Mosquito Deterrent

Pyrethrum is a powerful all-natural insecticide grown in various parts of the world. 

Pest-control companies and professionals employ this in their automated misting systems to keep your home mosquito and insect free. This all-natural insecticide covers your entire outdoor area with a very fine mist. Typically, the mist is automatically sprayed two to three times each day – especially before sunrise (dawn) and sunset (dusk). The reason for spraying at these times is because mosquitoes are most active during these times – dawn and dusk.  

The mist falls onto your home’s yard, landscape, and foliage protecting you and your family from mosquitoes and other insects.

Professional Mosquito Control & Elimination

Homeowners are urged to contact a pest-control company to find out more about how automatic misting systems will work for them and their property. Most reputable pest-control companies will evaluate your property at no-charge. They’ll discuss with you the ideal installation for your property. They’ll also discuss other details necessary to design a system tailored to your needs, budget, and lifestyle.

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