Livingston Reporting - page 303

An Ounce Of Prevention Can Save You Gallons With A Flood

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

The one thing that worries more homeowners in the winter than anything else is the thought of their pipes freezing and then bursting under the pressure. The damage that is caused is disastrous.  Water pipes create a mess when they break and water gushes into your home environment.  The water is capable of destroying anything in its path.

When a frozen pipe bursts in your basement quick action is needed to clean up the basement flood.  Many homeowners believe just getting rid of the water will clean the area but this is however only one step in the process.  Any of the homes framing, drywall, paneling and flooring need to be removed and thoroughly dried or the area is at risk for mold and mildew issues to arise.

Now imagine if the pipe burst anywhere other than the basement area.  Flooded basements are one thing but consider if your homes upper level had a pipe burst.  Now you are looking at the risk of water seeping into the floors support and spilling relentlessly throughout the entire home finally reaching the lowest point, the basement.

The best way to make sure your lives are never turned upside down by water flooding your home from frozen pipes that have broken is to prevent the pipes from freezing in the first place. A home that is properly insulated with pipes that have also been wrapped with insulated materials is one that is taking complete measures to ensure the home against frozen pipes that break.

 

Dreamers Inc Restoration

The Best Defense In Home Security

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

What is the best way to protect your home and family against crime and burglary?  Nope, the answer is not to purchase a mammoth dog that is sure to scare thieves away.  However the answer is to secure your home by purchasing and installing a home security alarm system.  There are a number of benefits to having a security and monitoring system installed in your home.  One of the most obvious is the sight of having one makes your home less of a target amongst thieves.

Another benefit to home alarm security systems is that they allow the home to be set up to monitor not only against burglary, but also for carbon monoxide poisoning and fire emergencies.  The monitoring company is employed to then set the wheels in motion and a course of action to begin to contacting local emergency enforcements and deploy them to your home.

Security systems are become a must have in homes today.  They are becoming easier to use and more reliable than ever before.  The glitch’s of home protection have been fine tuned and allow homeowners to go on vacation and feel secure that their home is being watched, go to work at night knowing their families are safe and sound at home and protect families and alert them in case of fire or carbon monoxide poisoning.  Home alarms services truly are the gift to give this holiday season to your loved ones to provide security at home.

All Star Alarm

Easy Steps In Selecting An Engagement Ring

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

The hardest part of picking out an engagement ring is finding the person you want to spend the rest of your life with wearing the ring.  Choosing the ring that is to be presented as a symbol of your love and affection is relatively easy.

 

The first step in selecting an engagement ring is to determine your budget. The old aged of two months’ salary has gone by the waste side.  This is an out-dated rule of thumb and couples today understand that two months’ salary is a tremendous amount of money to spend on one piece of diamond jewelry.  This is now left for personal choice.  If you can and you want to spend the money however it is not a must today.  Many people choose an engagement ring that symbolizes them as a couple.  This is more important than the amount of money spent on the ring itself.

 

Once you have decided upon a reasonable budget consider thinking about the style and metal of the ring that best describes the woman you are asking to marry you.  Some popular options are halo engagement rings, antique engagement rings and classic solitaire engagement rings.   Consider the color of jewelry she usually wears as well.  Does she like gold, platinum, white gold or silver?  This helps indicate what she has a preference for.

 

The stone is the next item you will want to choose.  Are you thinking about a traditional diamond or are you considering a gemstone that she favors.  Again this is an area that will depend on the woman you are asking to marry you.  Some women are very traditional and prefer a diamond.  The shape of the diamond is also another option you will have to choose.  Diamonds come in many shapes including round, princess, emerald, marquise, oval, pear and heart.  

 

Consider the setting and type of wedding band you eventually think she will want.  Classic diamonds solitaires are easily matched with wither a plain wedding ring or a wrap to enhance the solitaire.  Another setting is one which includes side stones.  This also is easily paired with a classic band or worn on its own.  Some couples choose a bridal set which allows you to purchase the engagement ring and wedding ring as a set.  This way there is a perfect fit and uniform look for the pairing.  

 

Lastly you want to compare the cost of the ring you decide upon at a few different jewelers.  Don’t rule out online shopping as often online diamond prices can be far more reasonable.  You are not paying for the fancy shop or name.  With online purchasing you are paying for the ring.  Remember to have the ring appraised and insured.  Good Luck!

DaRoche Jewelers

Winter Roof Repairs: Problems To Look Out For

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

The time is upon on us when we start to think about how the snow, ice and winter winds affect the exterior of our homes, leaving a mess of roof repairs in our futures.  To avoid expensive roof damages to your home this winter it is important to be aware of common roof issues that arise in the winter. The sooner an issue is fixed after it arises the more money and time you will save yourself in expensive repairs.

The first issue that is prevalent in winter is developing a leak where the flashing or drains are located. If your roof is on a slop you may notice a leak at the flashing as well.  The best way to combat leaks is with maintenance and an inspection prior to the winter weather.  Homeowners can hire a roofing contractor to come out and do a maintenance check on the roof.  They will inspect flashing, drains and vents to ensure that the roofing is sealed down properly and nothing is loose or coming up that would allow water to seep underneath the shingles.

Another thing to look for when it comes to your roof is structural damage.  This can happen so gradually that you don’t even realize damage has been done until it is too late. That is why it is so important to inspect the roof regularly so that you are familiar with changes.  When ice or snow builds up on your roof it keeps the heat from efficiently heating your home this is why it is so important that a professional inspects the roof to ensure you have plenty of properly ventilation spots throughout the attic.  Proper roofing and attic ventilation can eliminate structural damage to the roofing structure of your home.

The last issue to address when it comes to winter roof repair is ice damming. Ice damming is the problem that exists when water freezes along the roof line and in the gutters.  The problem is when the ice starts to melt and the water is not able to properly drain.  This leaves the water searching for a place to go which inevitably is under the shingle roofing which causes major damage. Keeping the ice from occurring is the best way to stop this issue and can be done using a roof rake.

A regular inspection of your roof will have you avoiding major expenses and roof repairs down the road.  Becoming aware of common issues and consequence that arise with harsh winters can prevent minor inconveniences from turning into major catastrophes.

Home Pro Roofing MI

Sprucing Up Your Home With New Window Treatments

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

When you are looking to spruce up a room one of the most inexpensive ways to handle this is to upgrade the homes window treatments. Below are some tips to effectively go about choosing new custom window treatments for your rooms and home.

One tip to remember is that minimal is in when it comes to covering the windows in your home. Taking away thick, heavy window coverings and replacing them with simple light colored blinds or shades.

Another tip is to include natural light in your design.  This is especially true when it comes to kitchens and bathroom window treatments.  Using pleated shades offer privacy but allow plenty of natural light and lightness when closed.

Another easy window treatment trend is the use of up to date current colors in contemporary tones.  Neutral shades and blinds give any room a cozy warm feel and allow the space to look up to date while mixing well with color on the walls or furniture.

Another current window treatment trend is adding in natural materials and textures such as wood, bamboo and other fibers found within nature. This adds dimension while keeping colors neutral in the rooms overall design.

Window treatments don’t have to be complicated to be custom, up to date and modern.  When looking into updating rooms consider adding some neutral blinds and shades to lighten the environment that can play well when mixed with current trends in color and personal style.

Comfort Blinds

Does Your Website Represent Your Business Today?

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Does your current website reflect your business?  This happens when you have had a website that has been running for years; it suddenly looks completely outdated and indeed needs a facelift.  There are many ways to evaluate your site to determine if it could use a bit of attention.

1)       How is your current site ranking within search engines?  If your search rankings are not showing up like they previously had it might be time to look at the sites design that is not visible.  Meta tag changes are just as important as the visual changes in website design.  Search engine optimization is a key element in your website design.

2)      When you pull up your website do you feel it accurately reflects your business?  If your business has grown or changed at all it is important that those changes are reflected within your website.  You want to make sure that the site is keeping up with your growing markets and that it is keeping pace with the industry.

3)      Another aspect to consider is the changes in technology that have happened since your website was programmed.  Is the site compatible with newer browsers or mobile applications?  This can be a common problem with so many people accessing information with mobile devices.  It is important to make sure your site is able to been seen when clients are using their phones and other devices.

4)      One more thing to consider is if the images on your site take longer than two seconds to load.  It is proven that web users are impatient and want instant gratification.  If it is taking forever for the images to load within your site they will close out and go elsewhere.

These are just a few of the many reasons to look into a website redesign.  Most business owners have a difficult time being impartial when it comes to marketing their business online or in print.  It is important to get several opinions on your website and the design when considering the growth of your company.  Online marketing campaigns can do a lot for your business however if your site is still missing something or lacking luster you could be losing potential clients.

Creative Programs and Systems

The Benefits Of Aluminum Handicap Ramps

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

If you or someone you care for using a wheelchair, walker or scooter for mobility than a handicap ramp is an absolute necessity for your home.  The most desirable ramp is not only based upon initial costs but consider the big picture. When installing a ramp consider that it will need to be maintained as well as need to be adjusted from time to time as well as possibly removed at some point.  The ramp may not be a structure that is meant to be permanent.  This will all play a role in the type of accessible ramp you choose for your home.

Aluminum Handicap Ramps

I personally think it is best to look at all the advantage that aluminum handicap ramps posses when determining what style ramp to use for you or your loved one to enter and exit the home environment.

1)      Aluminum handicap ramps can be incredibly versatile.  Any type of landing can be accommodated with an aluminum ramp.  This is also true if the ramp needs to be re-configured later on down the road should you move or need to change the place the ramp is installed at.

2)      Handicap ramps that are aluminum are durable and strong.  This quality exists even though they are lightweight.  Another benefit that comes with this lightweight durable material, aluminum, is that the upkeep and maintenance is non-existent. Wooden handicap ramps, although beautiful, are difficult to maintain.

3)      Aluminum handicap ramp installation is cheaper as the time required to build and install these ramps is half that of wooden ramps.  The other benefit is that often a permit does not need to be pulled to add on an aluminum handicap ramp where as a wooden ramp requires building permits and inspections.  It is best to check with your local government offices to determine if a permit is required.

4)      Whatever your need be it a modular ramp, a folding ramp or a ramp to rent aluminum handicap ramps have an option available for you.   That is another benefit of aluminum handicap ramps is that there is always one to meet your need.

A professional handicap ramp installation expert will evaluate your home to help you determine exactly what you need and the best route to go when purchasing a ramp that meets all of your or your loved ones needs.

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

Navigating Through The Challenging Maze Of Medicare Supplemental Insurance Policies

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Choosing a Medicare Supplemental Insurance plan is one of the many decisions that need to be made upon turning sixty-five or qualifying for Medicare.  The problem is that without ever having Medicare coverage before you probably are having a difficult time determining where the gap will be for your needs.  Medicare Part A and Part B cover only basic physician and hospital coverage.  The rest is up to you to obtain at a premium from individual insurance companies. The best option is to shop around and research the options available to you within Medicare Supplement Insurance plans.

The one thing to remember when purchasing Medicare Supplemental Insurance is that no matter what company you choose to purchase the insurance from the coverage will remain the same.  The coverage is the same the premium however may not be the same. This is the part that you really need to be careful about.  The government regulates the policies so every plan x from every insurance company is the same the difference is in the premium.

There are several ways to gain information on Medicare Supplement Insurance.  One of the best methods is to view and compare plans, rates and insurance companies online.  This gives you the chance to see the options within the plan and consider how each plan affects you and your lifestyle.  From there you have the opportunity to see several insurance companies’ premiums and you can decide from there what option is the best for you.

Senior Health Direct

Snow and Ice Removal Services Throughout Livingston County

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Like it or now old man winter is right around the corner.  The leaves are falling and the air is getting crispy.  Every year before the season begins business and residential clients start asking about snow removal and snow plowing services that are offered throughout Livingston County.

For us here at Bladerunners we like our new and returning customers to know and understand the way we look at snow and ice throughout the winter. From the first snow fall to the last we are dedicated to ensuring the safety of your family or clients as we do our own.  Melting snow leads to ice quickly. This is why Bladerunners team of experts work quickly and throughout the night and day to offer initial services and then ice and snow removal and maintenance.

During the season we use a combination of tools and procedures to provide the best snow plowing at the time of need.  We use heavy duty trucks and skidsteers to clear parking lots.  We also provide services that allow us to clear walkways and courtyards.  Everyone knows that the snow melts and leads to ice buildup. At Bladerunners we use preventative measures as well as time effective ones to melt the snow and ice and prevent a refreeze from happening.  All of the chemicals that we use are safe for pets and are non-corrosive.

As a storm passes and lots are initially cleared our team will do a post-storm evaluation on your property to continue making sure your environment is free of residual hazards. We offer a variety of packages at all price levels.  Give us a call today and ensure Bladrunners will be able to service your needs this winter – (810) 923-5111.

Bladerunners Landscape

Important Issues To Face With Aging In Place Safety

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

When it comes to the aging population and the issues they face many come to mind that are worthy of upgrading but two in particular that are important to consider immediately.  The installation of bathroom safety features such as a barrier frees hower and grab bars as stabilizers as well as having an aluminum handicap rampinstallation service company to install a ramp designed for your home and porch.
The most important matter in ageing in place is to create the safest environment possible for loved ones. A barrier free shower allows for an individual’s privacy and safety needs to be met.  Often barrier free showers accommodate walking aides such as wheelchairs & walkers and offer seating to accommodate legs that cannot stand long.  The shower head is one that can be removed and held by hand to reach those hard to get spots and be within reach of the individual.
Aluminum handicap ramp installation to the homes porch and entrances is important to allow the freedom of entering and exiting the home without barriers even when assisted with walking aides such as a walker, cane or wheel chair.  Aging in place is all about creating a space that allows for freedom and safety.  Consider these two options when looking at ways to upgrade the space in which you or your loved one with age within.

Glen Miller The Home Doctor