Month: January 2014

New Roof Installation In Any Season

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

Is there one time of the year that is better than another to have a new roof installed on your house?

This question is one that roofing contractors get all the time.  The truth is that we work year round.  When you need your roof replaced we are there to serve our clients.  If your roof needs to be repaired or replaced during the winter, summer spring or fall we will be there to make it happen.  We know when it comes to replacing your roof that most homeowners try to extend the life of their roof for as long as possible leaving it dire when it finally needs to be done.

As a roofing contractor the best time for me to replace your roof is a time in which you are prepared.  A new roof is not a decision that should be rushed into and ought to be planned for.  The spring, summer and fall seasons are the busiest time for us as roofers as such I won’t be able to cut you the type of deal we can in the colder months.  Most people don’t consider getting a new roof in the winter months as a viable option.  This is however not the case.

In the winter we have more flexibility to accommodate your new roof or roof repair.  In the warmer months there is often a number of roofs that need to replaced often leaving us to have to schedule your roof up to a month out.  This is also when unqualified roofing contractors come out of the wood work.  During the summer if a roofer is able to squeeze you in right away chances are that roofer is not someone you actually want doing your roof.

Another advantage to installing your new roof during the winter months above and beyond price and availability is that you will get to choose from the cream of the crop of local roofers.  With winter being a slower time of year for roofers you can interview several and make a decision based on their price, time frame and previous work done.  Winter roof maintenance or an entirely new roof leaves you with options where as other times you are left getting what is available instead of what you necessarily want.

Homeowners are often concerned about the warranties on their new asphalt composite shingles.  Put your mind at ease with the knowledge that roofing material manufactures do not base their warranties on the temperature or time of year the roof was installed.  Roofing material warranties are the same whether they are installed in the mild spring, hot summer or chill of winter. One thing to note though is that shingles need to go through a sealing process which does take temperatures over forty degrees Fahrenheit.  Believe it or not this is not unfathomable even here in the north.  A solid day of warm temperatures will seal your new shingle roof.

Most local roofing contractors are happy to assist their clients any time of year.  Their best services should be their only services so no matter if roofing is done in the dead of winter or the middle of summer your roof ought to be installed properly and efficiently.

Home Pro Roofing MI

Ridding Homeowners Of Wildlife Intrusions

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

Winter time in the north is prime time for wildlife intrusions in your homes and barns.  Squirrels, mice, raccoons and even a stray cat or two will all be on the lookout for a warm place to lay their head.  This does not mean that your home has to play host or hostess to any of them.  The question lies in how to safely remove the extra wildlife that has taken residence without harm to your existing pets.

Neither invasion of your home is easier to get rid of then the next.  However, prevention is often simpler when it comes to ridding a home of spiders, cockroaches or bees.  When it comes to larger wildlife we try to remove them and preventing them from returning in the most humane way possible.  Trapping is the most common way to catch the culprit.  The problem with wildlife in the winter is that you are most likely not dealing with a lone squirrel or one mouse you are dealing with a family.

As an exterminator I have seen this scenario played out all too frequently; a squirrel at home in your attic is caught and the area sealed off and yet a few days later you are still hearing that all too familiar sound in the attic.  The squirrel isn’t back but the nests of babies are hungry and without mom and dad coming in and out to feed them they are getting restless.  Worse yet, weeks later the over powering smell of decay and dead animals.  Don’t fall victim to this.

A trained professional will come in to your home, evaluate the scene and proceed accordingly.  An exterminator knows exactly what signs to look for when dealing with wildlife invading your home to track if you are dealing with more than one menace.  They will help determine points of entry and remove the entire nest with the mom relocating them to a place other than your home.  Relocating the mother or babies on their own will create different problems.  A mother squirrel will do anything she needs to do to rejoin her family even if that means pulling up roofing etc.  Once in your home again, where she does not find her family, she will be left to creating the havoc she was before you trapped her.

This is one reason it is important that homeowners look to the professionals when it comes to removing wildlife from their homes.  Winter brings out wildlife looking for warmth and the thaw of spring brings on more common pest and insect infestations such as ants, spider and fleas.  Spring is the time for all of those nasty pests to awaken out of their winter slumbers.  Prevention is the key in extermination.  Yes, we can treat and remove all pests from cockroaches to bed bugs but preventing the homeowners the hassle of dealing with the pest in the first place is our first priority.  Call a local pest control company before issues arrive.  Exterior power defense applications can be applied to your home making your home undesirable. We provide homeowners with the best case scenario when it comes to common pests, none at all.

Best Pest Removal LLC

The Added Value In Your Landscape Design When Hiring A Professional Landscaper

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

It is hard to believe but spring is right around the corner.  Many homeowners get the itch for an upgrade to their landscaping when spring hits the north.  It may be our itch to get outside or our desire to see lush green lawns with dark brown mulch after the white landscape we grow accustomed to in the winter.  When contemplating a new landscape design consider if you are going to do the work yourself or if you are looking to hire a professional landscaper.  There is no right or wrong answer to this question as there are definite advantages and disadvantages to both.

There are certain conditions it is better to hire a landscaper.  One of those is if you are planning a major change to a larger area of your lawn.  At first it might seem like it would be more expensive to hire someone however, when you take into consideration the amount of time and money you will spend trying out different options you are probably saving yourself a chunk hiring someone.  A professional will make sure things are done correctly the first time.  There is no need for trial and error.

It is also better to hire a professional if you have a particular style in mind for your new lawn.  Creating a theme or particular style is often difficult and a professional landscaper will be able to design and layout the different options available before money is spent on plants and accessories for the landscape.

A landscape designer does all of the work from preparations to final installations.  This flow allows the lawn to develop more naturally. Their experience is necessary when choosing appropriate plants to thrive in your lighting and soil.  Think of all the time and money that is wasted if you install plants that are not appropriate for the level of sun, rain or soil nutrients you have.  All of this is foreign to most homeowners.  Even with research we often over calculate the sun shade ratio and water allotment that will be needed to grow a beautiful landscape.

I do believe that most homeowners can take on the challenge of landscaping on a smaller scale such as when you are looking for a little change.  Installing a Koa pond for instance is not a huge monetary investment and is something that is easy enough to achieve in a long weekend.  Home supply stores sell kits that basically make it fool proof.

When you are looking to create an oasis in a small backyard and have the time to learn the art of landscape then by all means as a homeowner take it on.  When your canvas is small there is not a lot of room to make mistakes.  Large designs require detailed instructions that are just not necessary when talking about a smaller space.

Hiring a lawn maintenance team is well worth the extra funds when you are lounging on the beach instead of pruning trees or mowing lawns.  Once the initial design for your lawn is in place consider hiring a lawn care company to maintain the art that was created in your landscape.  Curb appeal is the number one seller of homes and trust me lush well maintained green lawn enhances the curb appeal of any home.

CBA Outdoor Services

The Do’s and Don’ts of Purchasing Insurance Coverage for Your Business

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

The list of do’s and don’ts when it comes to owning your own business is long.  At the top of that list of do’s is to budget for adequate insurance to cover your business from the unexpected.  This will ensure if something does occur you are covered and will not lose everything you have worked so hard to accomplish.

 

When looking into insurance for your business there are some things that will help you lower your risks and obtain insurance that fits your company’s needs.

 

The do’s of purchasing business insurance

 

The first and most important tip in purchasing insurance for your business is to find an agent with is expertise in all types of insurance policies.  An agent with experience is necessary when it comes making sure you have enough coverage for your business.

 

Your business insurance coverage should include all the basic coverage such as property insurance with equipment coverage, auto insurance on business vehicles, workers compensation and general liability.  It is important to make sure the coverage that you purchase is inclusive of all of this.

 

When you finally do get insurance for your business it is important that you store all of your business records including all insurance paperwork together off site.  This way if something does occur all the necessary paperwork is in a place you can get too easily and claim your money without difficulties.

 

It is important to know who the insurer is as well.  Do research on the company that you plan on getting insured through. It is important to know who you are working with when it comes to insurance and every decision in business.

 

The don’ts of purchasing insurance for your business

 

When it comes to insurance for your business never go without.  It may seem like a good idea due to a limited budget to go without insurance to save money but it is never a good idea to go without insurance.  If a catastrophe occurs and you are under-insured or not insured at all then all your efforts will have been in vain.

 

It is also important to disclose all information to your insurance agent upon getting insurance and when any changes are made to the business.  You need to keep your insurance agent up to date on the changes with your business to make sure that you are never caught without enough insurance.

 

Tips to help lower business insurance premiums

 

Insurance premiums, even those in business, are based on the risks involved in the business.  Agents will make evaluations on your business to determine the profit and losses involving your business situation.  In order to bring your risk down, therefore lowering your premium here are some general tips.

 

Make sure the lighting in and around the office and premise is more than sufficient.  When people can see the world around them they are less likely to have an accident.

 

Keep the office’s electrical wiring, equipment and all machinery in mint condition.  When the office machines and equipment is kept in good condition, the result will be that the overall condition of the office will be better.  A clean, well-kept environment within your business will result in reduced premiums.  When everything is kept in prime working order and kept organized the environment in general is safer.

 

Install safety devices such as smoke, fire and carbon monoxide detectors throughout the business setting.  An alarm system and sprinkler system that is monitored will also help to lower premiums.

 

As stated above, in regards to paperwork make sure you keep everything associated with the business.   Every purchase that is made along with upgrades to the premise, equipment and such should be documented and kept off premise.

 

The most important thing in regards to business insurance is to budget for the appropriate amount and variety you will need. Everything from workers compensation to general liability will help to protect you in case of an incident.

 

Cobb Hall

Maintaining Cleanliness In Your Inground Pool

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

A home with an in ground pool is one of the best ways to relax and enjoy your backyard.  Building a custom pool has never been easier than it is now days.  Whether you are looking for muscle relaxation and massage jets or LED lights that dance to the rhythm of music a custom design, a pool can be customized to your specifications and budget requirements.  Backyard pools and landscape can turn an ordinary home into a paradise of fun however the commitment to keep up on cleaning and maintaining the pool is a huge responsibility and one that should not be taken lightly. Here are some steps to ensure that your backyard pool is maintained after it has been installed or resurfaced with fresh pool plaster.

 

One part of pool maintenance is to drain the pool.  In order to drain your pool you will want to check with local municipalities to see where the water can be properly drained.  Most often you cannot drain your pool into the road way as this can cause bigger issues.  There are two places that people ordain their pools into; a clean out or into the lawn.  A clean out is the most preferable place as most landscape cannot tolerate the chlorine or salt water from pool being drained.

 

Plaster pools need to be resurfaced every seven to ten years.  Some newer plastering products such as Hydrazzo can allow the pools plaster surface to last upwards of twenty years.  You won’t see this type of plaster on many pool surfaces however; as the expense is double that of regular gunite pool plaster.

 

Resurfacing requires that the old plaster be chipped off and separated from the gunite.  The gunite is the concrete base of the inground pools structure. A mixture solution of muriatic acid and triple parts water should be used to clean the pool.  After the pool is thoroughly cleaned a new base of plaster will be installed by a professional pool plastering company.

 

After the pool plaster is dry the pools water can be refilled.  A pool can be refilled using a garden hose, faucet or a bulk water delivery.  If using a hose make sure to wrap a sock or piece of clothing to the end.  This will help to trap the larger pieces of sediment so that they will not enter the pool and ruin the surface.  When the pool is filled it important that all the right steps are taken in keeping the chlorine levels correct and the pool filter system working.  A clean, balanced pool is one that will endure the test of time.

 

Now that the pools structure, plaster base and water are in order the next step is to maintain this level of clean. The best way to ensure that you are keeping the pool in new condition is to know exactly what you are doing when you are cleaning the pool.  Hire a pool cleaning professional to come in and give you step by step instructions on how to keep up with what you have started with.  The clean slate that comes from draining, resurfacing and filling a custom pool is something that can last a lifetime with careful upkeep.

 

Pound Pool Plastering

When It Comes To Purchasing A Survival Knife Quality Is Key

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

When deciding upon the best survival knife there are arguments that can be made for several different styles of knives as well as brands.  The discussions are likely to become heated and intense as outdoor enthusiastic are passionate when it comes to their tools.  There are several hundred survival knives to choose from.  Countless hours of research have gone into the issue regarding the best survival knife.   Numerous reviews have been read.  The conclusion, the best survival knife for you depends on what you are looking for.

 

Each knife is unique and as such has viable pros and cons that come along with owning it.  Each person has a characteristic unlike that of another so we will never agree on which one is “the best” for everyone.  There are however, some important characteristics to look for that create a survival knife that will become an everlasting family heirloom.

 

When it comes to purchasing a knife for survival purposes you have two choices in blade styles; fixed blade and folding blade.  I would never recommend a folding knife blade to a true survivalist.  Folding knives have improved over the years however are not as well built or resilient as a genuine fixed blade knife.  When choosing a fixed blade knife look for a full tang instead of a partial tang.  The difference is that in a full tang the blade metal extends the full length of the knife into the grip-portion of the handle.  A partial tang, in my opinion, does not offer the strength or stability that a full tang survival piece can.

 

Another significant portion of the knife that needs to be considered is the steel in which the blade is made.  This could be the most debated part of the knife as well.  Knives can be manufactured out of variety of steels or combinations of such.  When looking for a long-lasting knife for survival purposes the best option for the blade, in my opinion, is a combination of stainless steel and carbon steel.  Carbon steel allows for the knife blade to stay sharper longer as well as being incredibly durable while stainless steel looks sleek and is a non-corroding, rust resistant material.

 

A considerable feature when it comes to purchasing a true piece meant for survival you will want something with some girth.  A thick blade is a must have when it comes to finding the perfect survival piece.  When you are out in the back country living off the land you need a knife that will slice, hack, split, bone, skin and save your life. You should be looking for a blade that is at least an eighth of an inch thick.  A knife being used to save your life should be made in such a manner that failure is not an option. If the blade fails it could mean your life.

 

The last piece of advice I will give you on the topic is to purchase a brand name knife from a reputable outdoor gear company.  Brand names in knives are plentiful.  Outdoor knife suppliers range from brands such as Ka-Bar, Cold-Steel, Buck and Becker just to name a few.

 

 

 

 

Knife Mule

Enhance Your Kitchen and Meal Preparations with Superior Kitchen Cutlery

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

Quality matters when it comes to the tools you use to prepare meals in your kitchen.  When choosing tools for your very first kitchen it is important to realize that the quality of the pieces you are purchasing is far more important than the quantity of pieces.  Let’s talk about kitchen knives as an example of where quality really matters over the number of pieces owned.

Quality knives can be purchase in sets.  Block set kitchen knives are incredibly popular.  The problem with purchasing a complete set all at one time is that it is pricey and requires a substantial financial commitment.  It also comes with the prospect that you are purchasing pieces that you won’t necessarily find useful in your cooking.  One way around both of these obstacles is to purchase an empty knife block and take your time filling it with quality pieces that you are sure to use.  This saves you from dishing out a lot of money right away as well as purchasing items you won’t necessarily use in your meal preparations.

Another benefit of growing your knife set is that it allows you to experiment with different brands.  If you are like me I like certain brand name knives for certain jobs.  There are several stores that now allow you to come in and test out different knife brands before you purchase.  Before I purchase anything for my kitchen that requires a substantial outlay of funds I try to test the product.

Start with the essentials.  Purchase a knife block and a chef’s knife.  I would choose a chef’s knife as it is an all-around easy knife to use.  Another knife I would look into getting sooner than later is a paring knife.   This knife is perfect for all the small jobs in the kitchen.  A Utility knife and bread knife would be my third and fourth choices.  To be honest, before I bought a bread knife, which isn’t essential to the cooking process, I would purchase a few paring knives.  During meal preparations I can go easily use four paring knives.  This way I don’t have to worry about washing them in between projects.

When looking at choosing kitchen knives make sure you purchase a knife with a superior blade.  The best material for kitchen knife blades is carbon steel, ceramic and titanium in that order.  All of these materials hold a sharp edge over a period of time.  Ceramic knives are incredibly sharp and easy to clean although a bit fragile.  Carbon steel is incredibly durable and withstands a lot of use and abuse however can turn colors over time.  Titanium is a great material but often a bit tougher on the pocket book.  There will be advantages and disadvantages to all material used in knives.  I do prefer ceramic for paring knives as they do the delicate work wonderfully but when slicing through a big chuck of meat I would take carbon steel every time.

Getting a great set of kitchen knives comes with patience and perseverance.  You truly don’t have to have ever knife to get started.  You will find growing your kitchen knife collection turns into a hobby of sorts.

Knife Mule

A Step In The Right Direction After Divorce

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

Divorce is an event that changes your life forever.  Going through the process of separation, divorce and child custody arrangements changes you and leaves you going through a wide variety of feelings and a decrease in your sense of self.  Not only are you facing challenges emotionally as a mom going through divorce but also a list of other difficulties including finding a place to call home and a way to finance your new life.  In order to bring order and assurance to your new life as a single women or single mom there are some things you can help you through the process.

 

The first key in moving on in your new life as a single women and mother is to learn forgiveness as well as to let go of the past and move into the present.  You may not see eye to eye with your ex but learning to let go of everything that is not within your control.  When you spend your days regretting the past the future will be wasted.  For your sake and for your children’s future you must move past the bitterness that comes with the divorce process.  Create a future based on forgiveness and moving forward.

 

Create room in your life and the lives of your children for friends and supportive relationships of all kinds.  Seek out positive experiences, this will create a life full of everything positive and will allow you to begin to see the good in life.  Bring people into your life that was not involved in the chaos of your marriage and divorce.  Allow yourself to become encompassed by friends that know you’re moving forward and not looking back.  Don’t allow your support system to bring you back into the pandemonium of your divorce.

 

From the minute that a divorce is eminent you need to take time for yourself.  Take some time to enjoy a new or old interest.  Consider taking on an outdoor sport to give yourself some alone time.  Fresh air and outdoor adventures are some of the best ways to let off steam and regain a sense of self.  Harmony to oneself is the best resent you can give to yourself and your children.

 

While you are married you have to compromise on everything from the brand of toilet paper you use, where you live and how many kids you will have.  Compromise is involved in each step along the way with marriage.  Once you are separated, you begin to be in complete control of all the decisions in your life.  You can choose where you vacation with the kids, pick out the shampoo that will be in the shower and what type of car you will drive.  Excitement comes with discovering your likes and dislikes without any need for compromise.

 

Eat healthy and learn to do things to take care of your health and well-being.  A change in diet and exercise can help you beat depression and improve your overall attitude.  It is a perfect time to see your physician so that together you can discuss the changes happening in your life as well as ways to ensure you to have health.

 

Remember your children through the divorce.  Communicate with them and remind them that the demise of your marriage is in no way shape or form because of them.  They did nothing to cause the divorce and nothing they could have done or would have done differently would have led the marriage to be saved.  Children have a lot of guilt when they learn their parents are divorcing.  Spend time with your children doing things outside of the house and the realm of the divorce.  Keep the messages you send them positive and upbeat.  Never burden them with the issues surrounding the divorce.

 

When you take these tips into consideration and truly focus on moving forward in a positive manner you can avoid the trauma associated with modern day divorce.

 

Longton Law

Building A Life You Desire After Divorce

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

Getting through a divorce and getting over your divorce are two very different things.  Both are difficult, but getting back into the single life after the divorce puts your life in a different ball game all together. It is important to get back into the game of life sooner than later for you and for your children.  Below you will find some tips to help you start living life and moving on to bigger and better pastures.

 

The first piece of advice I would give to any man in a divorce or after a divorce is to take some time to grieve. The loss that you are grieving is real.  You have lost your spouse and in some cases time with your children. It is normal to mourn as you are going through a momentous change.  Go through each step of the process; denial, anger, bargaining, depression, acceptance and then jump back into the game of life.

 

Keep tabs on how you are feeling from day to day.  Keep a journal of your day to day emotions.  Don’t jump back into the dating pool right away.  Take time to explore yourself and determine who you are, what your likes and dislikes are and figure out exactly what you want for the future for yourself and for your children.  Don’t feel the pressure to be with someone, dating brings on compromise and at this point in time the last thing you need is to do is think about anybody but yourself and your children.

 

When it comes to dating as a divorced man especially if you are a single father to boot it is important to take time to really focus on learning who you are and what you want.  The phrase “play the field” comes to mind but just be careful when as you do so.  Don’t involve your children in the chaos of your dating life.  Let them be kids and let them have your undivided attention when you have time with them.  If you are one of the lucky dads that gets primary custody or joint custody use your time with your children to make their lives as normal as possible and leave your dating life for the times when you are without kids.

 

It is important that you re-build your life.  The environment in which you live will say a lot about your overall mental state of mind for yourself and for your children.  Bring together pieces of your lives throughout the years to make your new home theirs.  This does not mean that you have to bring in pictures of your ex or anything like that however bring in pictures of the kids, vacations taken.  Make sure the kids have comforts of life wherever they are.  This will ensure that they are at home where ever they are.

 

As a divorced parent, being a dad is your most important job.  Taking care of yourself and your children after your divorce will leave you with the relationships you wish for in the future.

 

Longton Law

Tips On Selling Your Home During The Winter

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

Selling a home is an incredibly stressful life event. Selling a home in the middle of winter is not only stressful but full of anxiety and tension.  When your home is up for sale during the winter months the curb appeal is lost.  There is no green lush lawn, perfectly trimmed trees or the perfect sunny day lighting that enhances all homes.  What you have in the winter is brown grass, bad weather and short dark days.  How does one sell their home in the winter without taking a huge cut on your asking price?

 

The first thing you must know is that if people can’t get to your home to look at it the house will never sell.  This leads us to the first piece of advice all real estate agents will give you. Keep the roads, sidewalks and driveway to your home free of ice and snow.  In the spring and summer you are busy mowing the lawn and trimming trees to maintain your home.  In the winter, the homes maintenance will evolve around salting, plowing and shoveling.

 

In order to sell your home in the winter you need to make sure that when a buyer is in your home that it makes them feel warm, cozy and inviting.  Make them want to stay and check out your house.  You can do this by turning the thermostat up when showing the house.  Buyers that come in your home and are warm and comfy will stay for longer than those that come in and don’t get that feeling.  Staying in your home longer allows them to start seeing themselves and their families in it.  If the home has a gas fireplace, turn it on.  If you have a wood burning fireplace set the fireplace up so that it is all ready for a fire.  The look is often enough for potential buyers and it is less risky than leaving a fire burning while you aren’t home to attend to it.

 

In the winter the one thing that is extremely limited is natural daylight.  Homes always show better with the natural light.  Try doing showings in the early afternoon when the natural light is at its fullest.  If your showings will take place in the evening after all the natural light is gone be sure to turn on all the lighting you can.  Make sure the light bulbs in the home are all installed and that the highest wattage available is installed.  If the house is being shown at night, don’t forget the exterior lighting!

 

We often forget about our cleaning our windows in the winter because the curtains are pulled.  Don’t forget the importance of clean windows in the winter when grime really adds up.  When the buyers pull back the curtains in your home you want them to see a home that is well maintained even in the winter.  Clean windows also add to the curb appeal of a home especially when screens are stored for the winter.

 

Create comfort throughout your home. You can do this by adding throws on the back of sofas, thick comfy comforters on all of the bedding and slippers by the door.  Your home should scream cozy, comfy when a buyer enters your home.

 

Everyone loves a home that smells wonderful.  Upon first impression your home should smell clean like a well maintained home and cozy like a chocolate chip cookie.  Don’t overdo the scents as that will make buyers suspicious of what you are trying to cover up.

 

When welcoming buyers into your home remember it is still your home and your investment to protect.  Winter leaves footwear in a condition not suitable for walking through a home with freshly cleaned carpets.  It is okay for you to ask them to remove their shoes or to slip in paper booties over their shoes.  As a seller this leaves your investment protected and as a buyer it shows your pride of ownership and diligence in keeping your home pristine.

 

Lake and Land Real Estate