Livingston Reporting - page 309

Ideas In Roofing Material When Replacing Your Homes Roof

It is time to replace your roof.  You have been dreading it which led to putting it off and now there is no denying that the roof needs to be replaced.  It is time to make some key choices in regards to the new roof.  Homeowners need to consider the type of material to use for the new roof, commonly shingles or metal roofs here in the North. They also will need to check into the style, color and cost of the new roof they are looking to install.  If the homeowners are on a limited budget the choices become a bit clearer than those that can choose based on likes not costs.

The first and most commonly used roofing material for homes in the North is composite asphalt shingles.  Although asphalt shingles have very low insulation value and perhaps a shorter lifespan then other material they remain a favorite because they offer a low cost alternative, they are easy to install and are incredible resilient with the changing seasons. You can find shingles in a variety of colors, longevity options and price points. Although shingles are always the most cost effective way to go in roofing one thing to consider is environmentally they are the worst option.

Another common material is metal.  You can choose from a steel roof, aluminum roofing, metal tile roof or copper.  Metals roofs usually come from recycled content so are the most environmentally friendly option in roofing.  It offers a high insulation value and is solar reluctant, durable and lasts twice as long as asphalt shingle roof.  Another bonus with metal roofing is that it is lighter than most roofing options and resistant to a variety of seasons.  The one drawback is that metal roofing material tends to be pricier than other options.

Wood shingles and shakes are another option available in roofing materials.  They are offered in cedar, southern pine and redwood.  Wood shingles are cut from a machine where as shakes are handmade and have a more rustic rough look. The drawbacks with wood shingles are that they are not a good material against fire or water damage.  The natural material is environmentally friendly however not good against mold and dry rot. You will find the maintenance for this type of roof is high.

For a more durable option with the same look as wood shingles opt for a rubber or plastic shake shingle.  These are made to resemble the style of the shakes shingle however offer more durability against the natural elements.

Choosing a material for your new roof should not be taken lightly.  Homeowners are often quick to settle for the exact same roof that was on the house to begin with which is not necessarily the best fit for their family.  Most of the time homeowners are looking for a maintenance free way to maintain their roof, one less thing to be concerned with.  Metal and shingle roofing materials offer this to homeowners.  However if maintenance is not a concern wood shakes and shingles offer a stylish way to set your home apart from the neighbors.  As with any decision around the house you need to consider your personal preferences along with the look of your home.

Add Pizzazz To The Rooms In Your Home With Window Treatments

The first question most people ask when it comes to updating their homes window treatments is where do I start?  I would advise to set aside style and first focus on the function the window treatment will play.  Think about it, if you are looking for total darkness a sheer fabric curtain will not work for your room, you would instead need something with room darkening qualities.  However if you are okay with light filtering through it is okay to use something more decorative and unlined.  Lining is usually adds an extra expense to window treatments however does have added benefits.  Some added benefits include extra fabric lining to shield the sun, making curtains last longer.

Next consider the fabric, color and texture you would like to use.  The mood of the room will be set based on these qualities so it is best to think about the space and how it is intended to be used.  For example if you are looking for window treatments for a formal dining space where the mood is classic, sophisticated and dramatic.  For a space such as this consider a heavy silk or velvet, both which provide terrific insulation.  If your dining space is more casual and you are looking for an inviting space that lends to sitting and talking maybe lighter, billowing linen or cotton blends work. Color will also play a role.  Reds and maroons are very dramatic, sophisticated colors while greens, beiges and yellows are cozy, comfortable colors that help people to relax and feel at ease.

Another thing to consider is how long the window treatments should be.  When considering curtains I think the only way to go is floor length.  This of course only applies if you do not have radiators or deep sills.  Consider measuring so that the curtains just hit the floor and then hanging the curtain rod for them to be perfectly positioned. The rod placement for the curtains to hang on will depend on the molding placement as well.  Some people might consider curtains that slightly break at the floor.  If you choose this option, in order to make it appear stylish instead consider extending them one to three inches.  It is a more relaxed feel than those that are tailored to sit right at the floor.

The next issue to consider is how wide you would like the curtains to be.  Consider that the panels should look ample and that they flow even when closed you should ensure they are two to two and a half times the width of the actual window. There is an exception to this rule.  If you are only hanging the curtains to frame the window and are never intended to close you can order the curtain width to be only one and a half times the width of the window.  Take into consideration that curtains with pleats contain a certain amount of bulk on their own so you their width should more or less match the span of the window you are covering.

Another thing you will want to consider is if you want to tie the curtains back.  A classic approach to this is with tiebacks.  You will want to purchase a curved decorative metal hook to aide you in pulling the curtains back.  They should be mounted approximately two-thirds down the window or door wall.  Tiebacks can also be fashioned using fabric or ropes.  Something more causal can be fashioned using a wide ribbon or fabric to tie the curtain in the middle of the curtain.

Window treatments are a fun way to add a bit if pizzazz to any room.  It is the perfect way to add a different feel to any room.  Start with the function the window treatment will perform and build on that.  Instantly your room will transform itself.

Easy Custom Window Treatment Options

Homeowners don’t always have time or the deign skills necessary to make their home unique.  One sure-fire way to create a look in your home that wows is with window treatment updates.  Easier said than done right?  Here are some tips on making your house a home with updated window treatments that offer inspiration to any room.

The one thing I like to remind homeowners is that the minimal look and feel is in.  Heavy curtains need to be taken down and thrown away.  Simply replace them with streamlined shades for a more universally appealing look.  It simply adds to much thickness and weight to a room to have heavy curtains.  Thick window coverings tend to remove the lightness people are attracted to.

One way to have fabric within a room without the thickness of heavy window treatments is to use upholstered cornice or a simple valance.  This adds a bit of color but offers the ability to keep the room light without adding too much fabric.

Another suggestion is to lighten up your window treatments.  This is especially true in kitchens.  When a room such as a kitchen does not offer enough natural light it does not feel comfortable.  One way to fulfill the need for light while maintaining privacy is using light colored pleated shades.  Some pleated shades also come in a subtle pattern.

When picking window treatments that does use color in them consider using current, modern colors to accentuate the room without overpowering it.  Warm shades and modern colors update any room.

Another hot trend in window treatments is using texture.  Roman shades made out of natural materials such as bamboo, rattan and natural fibers add visual interest but remain functional.  Function remains the most important part of having window treatments.  Custom window treatment offer style, functionality and something unique to add to any room.

Speaking of function, adding lightness to a room does not mean including an overabundance of direct sunlight.  Direct sunlight into a room makes the temperature overly hot and unpleasant.  Adding wooden blinds or woven wooden shades light is filtered without the use of a window treatment that is too heavy.

Another way to add interest using window treatments is to use a layering technique. Done correctly you can add interest and appeal using different materials.  This gives a very custom look to your homes window treatments. One example of a layered window treatment is with the use of a natural material in a shade and a rod with airy fabric curtain.  Another way to layer is with the use of window blinds and an additional valance.  The layering technique offers a custom feel to the windows in your home.

It is important to remember the techniques and suggestions in this article in order to create window treatments that will enhance the good qualities in every room in your home.  It is amazing how the way homeowners use blinds and shades can completely transform the rooms in their homes.  Custom window treatments also add tremendous value to your homes resale value.

 

 

Slow and Steady SEO Techniques That Are Sure To Get Your Site Ranked

The changes that have occurred throughout Google and other prominent search engines has made many people start to question the way they are doing search engine optimization.  Again, it is one of those arenas in life where the old adages revolved around the phrase slow and steady wins the race continues to hold true.

Many search engine companies tried several different techniques to quickly rank within Google.  Many of these techniques had adverse affects on the sites they were promoting.  Some techniques Google frowned upon were using articles that had been spun into several different versions and placed throughout the internet using automated posting sites.  This was getting sites multiple links quickly but the links were not quality and ended up cluttering the web with information that was basically junk.

Two things were seen as improper by Google, spun articles and illegal posting.  The way Google wants site to go about getting recognized is by naturally building links for the site with quality links, linking quality information to your site.  Hand submitted articles to multiple sites over a period of time will get your site recognized and ranked well.  Submitting to an overabundance of sites will not work towards the goal.  Again it is important to remind search engine professionals that slow and steady is truly the best route when looking to maximize the results within Google and other prominent search engines.

Another key element when designing websites and having exceptional results within search engines is to maintain your existence within directories and forums.  This will take time.  Directories are time consuming to post company information with as you will need to seek out reputable directories in industries related to your online business.  The same is true when entering the arena of online forums and chats.  To effectively manage them it takes time.

When first building a site key elements within the back end of the site become critical when trying to maximize the results of your search engine placement.  The title, description and keywords work best when tied directly into the text on the site.  Google will rank your site higher than sites where the Meta tags are not used in conjunction with the text within each page.  This actually works for the benefit of keyword maximization within the site.  Each page can be set aside to maximize a new keyword or phrase.

Another technique that is effective in maximizing sites search ability is to build on to the site regularly.  People do this in many forms.  One way to do this is with the use of a blog page.  Properly done this is an effective way to show Google that you are constantly updating the information on your site which will make you more credible.

Another option that is along the same lines as above is maximizing the cities that you are working in with pages devoted to them.  A page focused on a particular area give a draw to the subject keyword and the focused city.  To me this is one of the best ways to grow your site and bring focus to the individual counties and or cities you wish to focus your business on.  If you are working on delivering a product or service to a national market the same notion can be achieved building pages based upon each of the fifty states.

Search engine optimization is not an internet fad.  It is something real and something that is here to stay.  Once your site has been shunned by Google or black listed your search engine work will double.  It is better to pass on the fads and stick with the basics; hard work, persistence and again a slow and steady race will be won.

Reason To Hire A Handicap Accessible Ramp Installation Professional

Adding a handicap accessible ramp to your home is a project best left to the pros.  This is true whether you are looking to put in place a custom wood ramp designed with a current porch space in mind or a more temporary aluminum ramp solution.  Handicap ramp installation is a job for the professionals.  It is difficult to properly install and build a handicap accessible ramp without complete knowledge of what needs to done.  This helps to maximize the ramps usability and safety for the user.

When a handicap ramp contractor first meets with you to talk about what your need is in regards to adding a ramp onto the entrance they will already be well aware of the ADA requirements.  This can be tricky for an amateur ramp designer.  The other thing that professionals bring to the table is that they are well versed in the laws surrounding the addition of a ramp to the home.  They have experience working with the city and will be able to determine right away if the site is compatible with certain designs and if not will be able to suggest what will work.

Professional ramp contractors come to the home with the necessary skills to start planning for the ramp.  Many do it yourself type people rely on the “wing it” method.  This will not work in regards to a handicap ramps and the safety of your loved one.  Ramps installers come prepared to put a drawing together of what is needed.  They also take into account when digging is required and are able to notify the proper authorities to get the property surveyed for gas lines, power lines and other electrical wires.

Handicap ramps are a bit tricky to design and implement.  When they are being designed around an existing dwelling it is especially difficult.  Professionals are able to look at the details in regards to the wheelchair accessible ramp and design it with the ADA guidelines for the maximum run length, landing space, leveling, hand rail requirements and minimum and maximum widths of openings and landings. This is a lot of information for a novice to perfect for inspectors who will be ensuring the viability of the ramp.

Budgeting is also something to consider when looking at having a ramp installed.  Professional ramp installation companies will give you multiple quotes to consider before settling in on a particular type.  Remember, certain materials will need more care to maintain.  If you are considering a wooden handicap ramp to be installed it will need to be treated and cared for after the initial installation.  Also consider if your area is wet or snowy you will have to accommodate with traction at key points throughout the ramp.

Having a ramp installed on your home is a new adventure for most homeowners.  If you are unsure of exactly what you are looking for as the installers for pictures of work that has previously been done by him for inspiration.  Homeowners can also seek ideas from neighbors who have had ramps built.  Ramps are a project often too complicate for the average homeowner.  Seriously consider hiring a professional in for this age in place renovation. 

 

Preparations For The Home When Caring For Aging Parents

With the costs associated with various assisted living communities and retirement facilities it is becoming infeasible to consider this option for many seniors.  There is a rise of seniors aging in place, continuing to live within their homes with modifications, and moving in with their adult children to care for them.  With this rise in at home care there are certain adjustments to the home that need to be made to ensure the safety of elderly parents.

Whether you are moving your parents in to your home or they are staying in theirs things to consider change as they grow even older.  At first it might not be apparent that an adjustment in how they enter and exit the home is needed.  However as they age and their needs change it is possible that the entrance will need to be equipped with a handicap accessible ramp.  These ramps can be temporary or permanent and come in a variety of materials. You can purchase custom aluminum wheelchair ramps or have a custom built wooden handicap ramp installed.  Handicap ramps allow seniors ease of access whether on foot, using a walker, cane or in a wheelchair.

Another area of great concern for aging parents is the bathroom area.  Privacy is still a large concern for them and this space should allow for independent ease of access.  There are several ways to update accessibility in a bathroom wither permanent or temporary.  If you are looking to make permanent changes a barrier free shower with a seating area is a wonderful upgrade.  Another upgrade that needs to be made is the use of grab bars and safety rails.  It is also important to install a raised toilet or raised seat over the toilet.  Getting up from a seated position is difficult as we age. Remember space around the sink needs to be easily accessed as well.

If an aging parent is moving into your home consider it is imperative to set up a space for them to escape to.  Remember aging does not come easily for them either.  They have become set in their ways and adjusted to quiet and personal space; moving in with an adult child was not what they had planned either.  Turn a larger room in the home into a bedroom area with seating, a television, phone and possibly a small refrigerator.  This way when they are ready to retreat they are able to.

It is important to make sure the home is as free of hazards as possible.  Mobility issues become ever more visible as we age.  Throw rugs and rough transitions can all turn into tripping dangers. This is even truer if a walker is in use within the home.

Aging in place is an incredibly common option in elder care nowadays.  If you know this is what you are hoping for when it comes to your loved ones consider guiding their home renovations in this direction as they begin to age within their own homes.  The same will be true within your own space. If you know a parent living with you is in the cards eventually it is best to make the small changes and upgrade gradually as you are renovation currently.

Barrier free home renovations are a valuable when it comes to the resale value of a home as well. The accommodations that can be made within the space are incredible and can be done without bring attention to the fact they are being done for elder care.  Age in place modifications can be done in a sleek, custom manner that prevents the home from looking as if it is a care facility.  It is amazing what a licensed professional in barrier free remodeling can do to transform your accommodations for elder care.

 

Meeting Your Health Care Needs With Medicare Supplemental Insurance

Having quality medical insurance is an absolute must in the world we live in today. The cost of medical care keeps going up and the coverage offered down.  The result, many people decide that insurance is an added benefit that they can do without.  The result of this becomes families and seniors left uninsured leave financial futures in disrepair.  It is important to take control and manage your health insurance, including seniors and Medicare.

Many seniors think that they will be denied health care coverage due to health concerns that are pre-existing conditions.  This is a misconception.  Medicare coverage is guaranteed coverage regardless of your current health condition.  It is also important to remember that Medicare does not charge extra high premiums either even if you come in the worst health imaginable you will get Medicare coverage if you are sixty-five or older and meet the requirements set forth.

One thing to remember with that all being said is that Medicare does not cover everything you will need in regards to health care coverage.  Medicare Part A and B cover the basics, hospital and doctors coverage.  Medicare supplemental insurance is provided for sale to cover the extras.  Yes, supplemental insurance does have a monthly premium involved but remember this cost of insurance is much less that it will cost you if and when something occurs and you are uninsured.

The question remains though of how do you find out which Medicare supplemental policy will meet your needs while being cost effective on covering the extra expenses.  Finding the information you need to help you make a decision about the policy and coverage best suited for you is very important.  If you end up making the wrong decision about the coverage you choose you might find that you are not covered when you really need it.  Thankfully there are companies available online that help you compare rates, view policy information and insurance companies without providing personal information.

It is important to take your individual situation into need when choosing your policy.  For instance if you are a traveling senior it is important to have coverage that covers you whether you are out of the state or country.  This is where you would look for a supplemental policy that covers you outside of your home network.

Another example of finding your Medicare supplemental insurance policy that works for you is to take into consideration co-pays and deductibles.  If you are an individual that sees the doctor often for office visits you will want to see which policy within Medicare supplemental policy will alleviate this out of pocket cost for you.

All insurance, including Medicare is often easy to misunderstand the coverage completely.  This is one reason people get so upset when it comes to medical insurance and coverage.  Before any procedure if you are unsure of what is covered and what our-of-pocket expenses will need to be accommodated for so that you can financially prepare.  Finding the best health care coverage, be it Medicare or individual insurance, takes a bit or research including asking the right questions to ensure you are getting the most coverage at the best premium possible.

Save Your Financial Future By Purchasing Medicare Supplemental Insurance

It is amazing how simple everyday adventures can turn a seemingly normal life into a mess.  This is especially true to each and every person that gambles with their health insurance coverage including senior citizens.  Medicare supplemental insurance is necessary in conjunction with your Medicare Part A and B.

Medicare Part A is basic hospital coverage.  Part A limits coverage to inpatient care within the hospital, hospice and home health care.  Medicare Part B helps provide the medically necessary services such as doctors’ services, outpatient care along with some preventative services.  It is obvious to see why Medicare supplemental insurance is necessary.  There are many holes that are left that leave seniors susceptible to financial troubles.  Living on a set budget does not take into consideration those things not covered by insurance.

Remember that there is more to the actual cost of Medicare than the initial premiums for Medicare Part A and B. You will have co-pays and uncovered office visits to cover.  This is where the different options in Medicare supplemental insurances come into play.  Medicare supplemental plans and policies help to cover deductible and co-pays.  Each policy offers different coverage options.  You will want to determine what policy will work best for your situation.

One way to compare the different Medicare supplemental insurance is online.  Online you can look at the different policy options available and compare the coverage and costs associated with it.  You will also be able to determine which private insurance companies offer the insurance you are looking for at a price you are willing to pay.

The one thing to be cautioned about is paying for the Medicare premiums with credit cards.  This is a dangerous practice to get started in. Paying the premiums with a credit card raises the cost you pay by adding interest and fees.  It is better to have premiums withdrawn from your account to pay the cost of the Medicare supplemental plan at the time it is due and withdrawn from your checking account.

It is also important to remember that the bills need to be examined to ensure that everything has been applied correctly.  If something comes to you as a shock you should call and inquire about the charges.  This is true with prescription drugs.  Always ask for generic versions of the medicine that is needed.  Also check as different pharmacies have different costs associated with the cost of the drug.

It is also in your best interest to reevaluate the Medicare supplemental plan you have chosen each and every year.  It is important to check out the new policies and what current plans are still available.  If you know your needs are changing now is the time to take care of them.  When open enrollment comes along, review your health insurance plans and needs.  This can save you money from paying extra for benefits you don’t need.

Medicare supplemental insurance can save your financial future.  With seniors on a limited income any outside expensive can truly send their finances into a tizzy.  This is why having coverage that will control the amount of extra out of pocket expenses you have if there is medical need.

 

Easing Mobility Challenges With Age In Place Remodeling

As expected the trend for seniors continuing to live in their own homes as they age is on the rise.  Seniors are not willing to sacrifice their independent living so easily these days.  The option of managed care, assisted living and moving in with adult children is not appealing to the aging generation in 2012.  With all of the available options within the home improvement industry to help create safe, barrier free living environments who can blame them.

Many adult children are also seeing the benefits of allowing their aging parents to remain within their own homes.  Fostering independence keeps seniors active, mobile and excited about living life, things that often become stagnate when venturing into a care facility.  It also allows a more manageable approach to caring for aging parents.  It does not become a burden to any one sibling and their family.

Age in place remodeling starts with small tweaks that can be made as rooms are naturally remodeled in the course of home remodeling. This makes the transition into barrier free living simpler.  Simple steps such as updating faucet handles as well as door pulls and levers can make accessing rooms and cupboards easy for aging hands.  Plus this type of renovation is non-invasive and really can be done slowly as home updates are being made.

It is really beneficial for homeowners of all ages to start incorporating universal designs into their home improvements, creating a unique stylish home that is safe and comfortable for years to come.  Below are some items to consider when planning home renovations.

  • One issue to consider is the width of doorways and the homes hallways.  In new construction you will often see hallways that are substantially wider than homes built earlier.  This helps to give homes a more open feel.  Wider hallways keep the home from feeling tight and closed in.  Another benefit for barrier free living is that mobility devices such as walkers, wheelchairs and canes are able to be used without worry.  The same is true with doorways that are widened.  It allows for easy turns to be made in and out of rooms.
  • Ramps are another update being made to homes today.  I know you instantly imagine hospital ramps when I say that but today ramps are incredibly stylish and versatile.  Not at all like the aluminum hospital style ramps, ramps today are made of a variety of materials including aluminum, wood and mixed metals.  Stairs can also be designed along side of ramp systems as not to hinder those wanting the use of stairs as well.  It is best to make the actual step a bit wider and about seven inches high for ease of use and safety.
  • The bathroom is one of the most important areas of the home for privacy and independence.  Special care should be sought out when designing the space.  Consider adding a shower that does not involve stepping in.  Barrier free surrounds are available or for a more sophisticated approach you can use textured tiles to surround the shower areas, add a built in bench and soap dishes left at a lower height.
  • Another issue in the bathroom area is often the actual toilet itself.  It is best to replace the toilet with a toilet that is taller than an average commode.  This is a great way not to single out the user.  Many aides for the bathroom are invasive and really public as they are used over the actual toilet.  This is often embarrassing for the user.  Higher toilets with added grab bars give a more attractive, less institutional feel to a bathroom area.

There are many stylish updates to the home that you can make to improve your home to help create an independent, barrier free living environment.  As your parents start to age and you see them remodeling hint to them that some of the above can be put into place keeping the home stylish yet upgrading the safety for them.  Seniors and those losing their mobility will benefit from the unsterilized look and feel of their home.

A Guide In Choosing An Engagement Ring She Will Love

When considering asking someone to marry you often one of the first items to consider is an engagement ring purchase. So many things go into making sure you purchase a ring she will adore for a lifetime.  There are some basic steps to fool when embarking on this magnificent journey.   Here are some basic things to consider before stepping foot into a jewelry store.

First things first, consider how much you are willing to budget for this expense. Traditionally people have thought that the ring you choose for your bride to be is to cost the equivalent of two months’ salary.  This is traditional approach is not necessarily the approach all grooms to be take to heart.  Set a reasonable budget that is realistic to what you personally can afford.  Remember if your purchase a ring on credit you will have that debt on top of wedding debt starting of your married life.  It is best to wait until you have saved enough to purchase the ring of your dreams for her.

Your soon to be bride will wear this one piece of jewelry for the rest of her life.  It is important that you put a lot of time into researching her likes and dislikes when it comes to jewelry.  Of course the more inconspicuous you make this the better the surprise in the end.  Often times the best advice will come from people close to her.  You may consider enlisting help from her parents or close friends to help you by asking them to take her out on the town and accidentally meander into a jeweler.  She is for sure to be drawn right to the styles she considers worthy.

Another thing to consider is your taste.  Remember that you will most likely be purchasing matching wedding bands later on down the road.  If you despise gold jewelry it is best not to purchase a gold engagement ring.  These are the little aspects of choosing an engagement ring that need to be considered before making the purchase.

Popular and unique engagement ring options for contemporary brides range quite a bit.  One option to consider is the simple, classic single solitaire diamond engagement ring.  This is often the safest purchase if you are completely unsure of what style your bride would like the best.  This option allows her to add a frame for the ring of her choice.

Another option that is also a popular choice is a single diamond set in a setting with minor decorations.  The main characteristic of the ring is still the large center diamond however designs are added around the ring as decoration.  The ring could entail more diamonds or other gemstones that your bride is fond of.

On top of antique engagement ring settings and the new halo engagement rings that are present and popular a classic setting is a trilogy ring.  This is one of the personal favorites for brides in my family.  The three stone setting represents the past-present and future of your relationship.  The most common cut of stones within this setting are solitaire.

The bottom line in choosing a piece of jewelry for your bride to be is to make sure you have added thought to the purchase.  Every bride appreciated this.  Also be honest with yourself.  If you can tell immediately that she is not absolutely in love with your choice take her and together look at the options.  In the end most times than not she will get to the store and realize you did indeed make the right choice and will walk out with the same ring she walked in with.