Contractor Tips Blog

May
9

Make Mold and Mildew Disappear with Pressure Washing

The exterior surfaces of a home or business are exposed to many wet elements. While siding, roofs, fencing and paved surfaces are made to withstand the rain and snow, they are not impervious to mold and mildew. These fungal spores tend to grow on almost any surface, creating black and green slime that can detract from the beauty of your property. To make your surfaces look like new again, use pressure washing to clear away accumulated mold and mildew.

Risks of Mold and Mildew

The black streaks on your siding or green slime on your roof is more than just an eyesore. Fungal growths can cause damage to surfaces, especially those that are organic. Wood and shingles can rot under the covering of mold, moss or mildew as the fungal spores take root on the surface. Plus, leaving these spores in place can stain your surfaces.

Use Professional Pressure Washing

Pressure washing can remove most types of fungal growths and leave your surface looking like new again. However, it is important to know how to carefully remove mold and mildew without damaging the surface underneath. Professional pressure washing services have the training to clean various surfaces to remove dirt, mildew and algae growth without harming the structure. The last thing you want is to cause more damage to your structure by accidentally using too much water pressure on a surface.

If your home or building has evidence of mold or mildew on the exterior surfaces, contact a professional power washing service. In just a few hours, your building and surfaces can be free of discoloration and protected from the risks of fungal growths.

Posted on behalf of:
Impact Pressure Washing
105 Commerce Drive
Fayetteville, GA 30214
(678) 697-7127

May
9

5 Creative Uses for Golf Carts

Posted in Golf Carts

Golf carts are not just for a day out on the course. These personal transportation vehicles can be used in a variety of ways, making life easier and more convenient. Most golf carts can be easily loaded to go anywhere you travel, making them wonderful for use at home and on the go. Here are five creative uses for your golf cart beyond a few rounds on the course.

  1. Camping. Want an easy way to travel around the campground? Bring along your golf cart so those with bad knees or limited mobility can quickly travel to the showers, water or camp store.
  2. Shooting events. Heading to the sporting clays course? A golf cart can make it easier to travel from each station and give your legs a break.
  3. Beach buggy. Many accommodations at the beach are still a good distance from the beach. Make it quick and easy to get to the beach by bringing along your golf cart for personal transportation.
  4. Neighborhood ride. Upgrade your golf cart with a street legal kit for residential street use. Golf carts can be an economical option for quick trips around the neighborhood.
  5. Special events. If you avoid going to some special events due to the amount of walking required, a golf cart can be a way to enjoy these occasions. Bring your golf cart to destination weddings and other events to give you the option to stay off your feet.

There are many ways to use a golf cart, especially for those who have a disability or mobility issues. These personal transportation vehicles can be a wise investment and improve your quality of life.

Posted on behalf of:
Top Dog Golf Carts
55055 Hammond Industrial Dr
Cumming, GA 30041
(770) 887-7433

May
9

Potential Conveyor Belt Problems

Posted in Conveyor Belts

Conveyor belts are a key component to productivity in many industries. A breakdown can bring everything to a halt, impacting every aspect of the business. Manufacturing can stop; shipments can be delayed, all due to a belt problem on your conveyor. Knowing the top conveyor belt problems and how to fix or trouble shoot them can help minimize slowdowns in your business’ productivity. Here are some of the top potential conveyor belt problems.

Materials Sticking to the Belt (Carryover)

When small amounts of material get stuck to the belt, it can cause issues in the conveyor system. When these materials carryover, they can be pulled under the conveyor and accumulate in pulleys, rollers and other mechanisms. Keeping the belt clean can prevent premature wear on the belt and breakdowns in the system.

Tracking Issues

Mistracking is one of the main causes of belt deterioration. Poorly fitted belts, tension problems and material buildup all can cause mistracking. It is best to have a conveyor belt service professional inspect the system and find the issue to get your conveyor back on track to prevent unscheduled stoppage of your production line.

Worn or Damaged Belts

Belts that wear out quickly or sustain constant damage are bound to slow down productivity. Belts are expensive to fix and replace but are needed to keep your conveyor functional. Inspect belts regularly to identify belt damage and fix as needed – routine cleaning and maintenance can help minimize premature belt damage and lower costs on replacement.

Preventing belt problems can save downtime costs and increase profits for your business. Stay on top of maintenance with routine inspections and service to reduce potential conveyor belt problems.

Posted on behalf of:
The King Group, Inc.
6865 Shiloh Road East, #100
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(770) 886-1113

May
9

Prevent Fall Injuries with Customized Metal Railings

When you own residential or commercial property, maintaining safe stairways, decks, porches and patios is important. Premises liability laws require property owners to keep anyone invited onto the property safe with ongoing maintenance and safety precautions. Sturdy metal railings on elevated areas can help prevent falls and injuries, protecting you from unexpected costs from injury liability claims.

Customized Railing Options

If you have railings on decks, porches or stairways that are loose or unsafe, metal railings can be a great option for replacement. Metal railings can be customized to fit any configuration and style when created by a talented metal fabricator. Whether you want the classic look of wrought iron or a more modern style, metal railings can offer a stable, durable railing to prevent falls and injuries. Benefits of metal railings include:

  • Long-lasting
  • Easy maintenance
  • Superior strength
  • Versatile styles
  • Rot resistant for outdoor use

A metal railing on elevated outdoor structures can help prevent accidental falls and injuries. Sturdy metal can last for decades and can be customized to match almost any style. If you have a porch without railings or deteriorating railings that need replacement, you can be at risk for accidents on your property. Make these structures safer with solid metal railings by contacting a metal fabricator that can customize the best style for your home or business.

It only takes a slip off the edge of a deck or a wobbly stair railing to cause a serious injury accident. Protect yourself from liability by investing in new customized metal railings for accident-prone areas. Call a metal fabricating expert to explore the many options available to add railings to your residential or commercial structure.

Posted on behalf of:
LCG Welding, LLC
4625 Church Road
Cumming, GA 30028
(678) 455-5552

Apr
16

4 Reasons You Should Recycle Your Old Cell Phones

Most homes have a secret cache of old cell phones. It might be a drawer, or a bag stuffed in the closet, but those old cell phones are still hanging around. While it is not a bad idea to keep a recently retired phone as a backup, you do not need that iPhone from 2008 or the Samsung Galaxy that will not even turn on. It is time to bring those old cell phones in for recycling and here are four excellent reasons why.

  1. Stored information. Those old phones have information stored in them that could be detrimental. If someone takes those phones, they may have access to all your contacts and other information. Have them cleared and recycled to keep that personal info safe.
  2. Protect the environment. Cell phones should never be thrown away. They can be toxic to the environment and need to be recycled and properly disposed.
  3. Precious metals. Did you know cell phones are made with gold, silver and other precious metals? These metals need to be recycled so they can be used for making new electronics. This helps reduce the amount of metals that need to be mined, which is also good for the environment.
  4. Extra cash in your pocket. You do not need to recycle your cell phones for free; you can get paid for the effort. Bring them to a cell phone repair shop that buys old cell phones for parts and materials.

It is time to clean out those junk drawers and overflowing closets. Bring your old cell phones in for recycling and earn a few extra bucks in the process. It is good for your home, your wallet and for the environment.

Posted on behalf of Cellairis

Apr
16

Storm Damage? Why You Should Have a Professional Roof Inspection

Posted in Roofing

When snow, hail or wind storms hit, they can cause substantial damage to your home. The roof is the most vulnerable, especially when ice, hail and falling debris are hitting the shingles. Once the storm passes, you need to assess your roof and determine whether it needs repair. If you believe there may be damage to your roof, it is best to have a professional roofing company perform an inspection. Here is why it is worth calling in a pro to check for storm damage to your roof.

  • Safety. First and foremost, climbing up to your roof can be dangerous, especially after a storm. There may be slippery or weak areas that can be hazardous. Let a professional that has the training and right equipment handle this risky job for you.
  • Expertise. Roofing experts know what to look for when inspecting storm damage. What may look like just a few loose shingles to your eye may be much worse. A roofing pro knows how to assess the damage and determine what needs to be done to restore your roof. This can help prevent leaks and further damage to your home.
  • Estimates and repairs. If there is damage, you have a professional that can give you an accurate estimate on how much your roof will cost to repair. This will give you a head start on the repair process and information to provide to your homeowner insurance company.

Next time there is a major storm and you think your roof may have been damaged, pick up your phone and call a roofing professional to schedule an inspection. It is the best way to get an accurate assessment of your roof and begin repairs if needed.

Posted on behalf of:
Atwood Home Builders
227 W 8
th Ave
Homestead, PA 15120
(412) 638-1262

Apr
16

Protect Paved Areas with Routine Pressure Washing

Your paved driveway, patios, pool decks and sidewalks all need routine care to keep them looking beautiful. Sweeping away debris and blowing away grass or leaves can help keep your property neat. However, to protect these paved surfaces, you need to remove the deeper layers of dirt and liquid substances. Pressure washing is the best way to protect those paved areas and extend the life of your asphalt, pavers and concrete.

Driveway Maintenance

Driveways are prone to spills of chemicals which can harm the asphalt or concrete. Gas, oils and other substances that leak from vehicles can deteriorate the surface of your driveway. Pressure washing can safely remove these chemical and help minimize damage to the surface. This can help prevent cracking, crumbling and water deterioration.

Patio and Pool Deck Protection

If you have a concrete or paver pool deck or patio, keep it looking beautiful and protect it from wear with routine pressure washing. The chemicals used in your pool and accumulated dirt can wear on the surface. Extend the life of your outdoor living spaces with a quick pool deck pressure washing service once or twice a year.

Sidewalks and Walkways

Concrete slab sidewalks and paver walkways can be prone to weeds and slippery substances. Keep them beautiful and safe with regular pressure washing. This helps with the outdoor aesthetics of your home and also prevent slips or falls on your property that can be a liability.

In most cases, pressure washing your paved surfaces twice a year is sufficient to help keep them clean and protect them from premature deterioration. Contact a local pressure washing service to maintain your paved surfaces and protect your investment in your home.

Posted on behalf of:
Impact Pressure Washing
105 Commerce Drive
Fayetteville, GA 30214
(678) 697-7127

Apr
16

Importance of Maintenance and Repairs for Outdoor Metal Staircases

Posted in Metal Stairs

One of the reasons metal staircases are popular for commercial buildings is their longevity. A quality metal staircase can last for decades, making it a wise investment for apartment buildings, industrial warehouses and other businesses. While metal is durable, it does corrode over time, especially when exposed to the outdoor elements. Maintenance can help keep metal staircases safe and extend the life of the structure.

Routine Maintenance for Metal Staircases

Quality outdoor metal staircases are painted or coated to protect the metal from rust and corrosion. Over time, this protective covering can wear off. The best way to protect the paint and stairway is to keep it clean. Pressure washing away dirt and debris can help reduce wear and tear.

In addition to regular cleaning, metal staircases will need new paint or coating every few years. When the coating wears through and the metal is exposed, rust will occur. Keeping the protective coating updated can help reduce wear and tear.

Professional Metal Repairs

Eventually metal staircases will need repairs. Treads, railings and welds may become weak, creating safety hazards. Inspections of the staircases should be made routinely to check for loose railings, rust and holes in the metal. Repairs can be made by metal fabricators that specialize in metal staircases, repairing or replacing components as needed. Metal stair restoration can extend the life of a staircase, delaying replacement.

Metal staircases are low maintenance, but they do still need some routine care. Keeping outdoor metal staircases clean and coated can prevent premature wear and tear. When repairs are needed, find an experienced metal fabricator that can replace and repair the components to maintain a safe stairway for your building.

Posted on behalf of:
LCG Welding, LLC
4625 Church Road
Cumming, GA 30028
(678) 455-5552

Apr
16

Benefits of Hiring a Stair Design Artist

Posted in Stairs

Are you building or remodeling a multiple-story home? One of the elements you will need to consider is your staircase. While a conventional staircase is functional, you have the option of exploring artistic construction that can make your staircase a centerpiece. A stair design artist specializes in creating unique staircases that can have many benefits for your home. Here are some reasons to consider hiring a stair design artist.

Match Your Style

A stair design artist can create a staircase that will match and enhance the style of your home. Whether you want a classic look or are striving for a modern or contemporary style, your stair designer can build a staircase that blends with the rest of your home.

Usage of Space

Staircases must be carefully placed to work with the flow of the home. In smaller homes, a spiral staircase can use less space and give you more room. A stair design artist can find the best structural blueprint to maximize space in your home.

Customized Details

Every element of a staircase can be customized to match your style. From the materials used to the shape of your staircase, a designer can create a stunning masterpiece that will improve the beauty of your home. Wrought iron, wood, glass or metals – all can be artistically shaped to build a gorgeous transition to your upper or lower levels.

Add Value

Unique features add value to your home. Make your stairwell one that sets your home apart from the rest by investing in a stair design artist.

Why settle for a boring staircase when you can have one built to match your tastes? Find a talented stair design artist to work with your remodeling or building team to create a perfect staircase for your home.

Posted on behalf of:
Southern Staircase/Artistic Stairs
6025 Shiloh Rd, Ste E
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(888) 510-0342

Apr
16

Will Your Chimney Last the Winter?

Chimneys can last for decades, safely removing smoke from your home and keeping your fireplace ventilated. However, they do need maintenance and repairs to keep them safe and functional. There are an estimated 25,000 chimney fires and many other chimney problems that occur every year. If you have an older chimney, you need to make sure it kept maintained. Have you inspected your chimney to ensure it is ready to last the winter?

Signs of Chimney Problems

A routine check of your chimney is the best way to catch signs of disrepair. As your chimney gets older, it may settle or become unstable. This can allow air in that can cause a chimney fire or result in a collapsed chimney. Some signs to look for include:

  • Spalling or shaling. If there are pieces of chimney tile falling inside in the fireplace, this is called shaling. Pieces of chimney falling around the outside structure is called spalling. Both are signs of damage that can lead to structural problems.
  • Leaning chimney. Take a close look at your chimney from outside. Is it leaning, or does it have deteriorating mortar joints? This can be caused by settling and too much moisture, leading to a crumbling or collapsing chimney.
  • Rust or white stains. Rust on dampers or the firebox and white staining on the outside of the chimney are signs of too much moisture. This can cause deterioration of the mortar and chimney.

If you notice any of these problems, call a chimney or masonry expert to schedule a professional inspection and repair. This can prevent chimney failure during the winters months and keep your family safe.

Posted on behalf of:
Anglin’s Foundation & Masonry Repairs
1027 Oregon Trail
Marietta, GA 30008
(770) 422-2924

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