Livingston Reporting - page 311

Cleaning Your Pool Like a Professional

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

Spring is a great time to get pool repairs taken care of. Gunite swimming pools need maintenance and taken care of those larger projects is better before the pool is open, filled and inconveniencing the fun a pool brings to your backyard in the summer. The summer season brings a whole new level of care and maintenance to having a swimming pool, including daily cleanings. Many families hire a professional pool cleaning service to come in and clean the tile, caulking and cement. In this article we will show you that it is possible to clean your own pool in under an hour with reasonably priced tools that are readily available.

Step 1: Clean the surface of the pool water with a pool skimmer.

Clear off the water’s surface. Skim off fallen leaves, beetles, flies, floating frogs and ordinary debris that have collected. You will want to empty the skimmer in a plastic trash bag and throw the debris in a closed trash can. Small critters and leaves decaying is not pleasant to smell. Continue this process until you have removed all of the debris.

Step 2: Scrub the sides and bottom of the pool to loosen and remove build up.

Pool wall cleaning brushes are specially designed long bristle brushes that are made to curve up and down the walls of the pool as well as the bottom. The pool broom will loosen up the dirt, debris, grime and oils that have settled and collected on the walls and floor of the swimming pool marcite. The next step is to use the pool skimmer/net to collect all the debris that is now floating around on the top of the swimming pool water and again place it in a trash bag and dispose of it.

Step 3: Clear out the pump basket and thoroughly clean all of the garbage that has accumulated.

The first step in cleaning out the pump is to turn off the pool pump. Remove the pump basket and pull it out and empty out any built up debris. This will help make sure that the filtration system is running smoothly. While the basket is out it is a good time to check it over and make sure there are no cracks in the oil ring. Put everything back in place and turn the pump back on. Look around the ground around the pump and make sure that nothing is leaking.

Step 4: Vacuuming the swimming pool.

More time than not the cleaning brush will be enough to clean out the pool. If the pool looks dirty after the cleaning brush and skimmer have been used it is time to pull out the vacuum. Make sure the pool vacuum is attached and a strong suction is created. Run the vacuum along the sides and bottom of the pool just as you would household carpet. Use slow and steady strokes throughout the process to ensure that you have reached every spot. There is no need to go through the hassle of cleaning the pool and getting the vacuum out if you aren’t going to do a thorough job.

Step 5: Balance the chemicals of the water.

The chemicals in the pool are so important to the overall health of the pool water and pools plaster. Purchase a tester to test the levels of the chemicals in the pool water. Add alkaline and chlorine to ensure the water is at a hundred percent. If the balance is off it can harm the marcite surface of the pool. The plaster is the hard shell of the pool so it is important to keep it in shape and you can do this with the correct ph of the pool.
Give yourself a solid hour, follow each of the above steps to the tee and you will have yourself a sparkling clean pool ready for the family to jump in and enjoy!

Pound Pool Plastering

Tree Removal Specialists and Stump Grinding

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

Hiring a tree removal service company can be an interesting process to say the least.  Everyone thinks they are a specialist when it comes to whipping out a chain saw and hacking away at the trees in your yard.  Try this, I dare you.  Go outside, start a chainsaw and I can guarantee that within fifteen minutes at least a few guys from the neighborhood will be out asking if you need help cutting the trees in your yard down.  Mind you these are not the people you want to trust with this high priority job.  If a tree falls on your house, injures someone or something you will not be covered by your insurance.  Stupidity is not covered.  Professional tree removal service companies have the proper tools, insurance, crew and machinery to ensure the job goes as planned.  When is the last time you have known a random group of men with chainsaws to have a plan?  That’s right – NEVER! Not to mention the unsightly stump that will be present after the job is complete in their eyes.

With that being said it is important to hire professionals that are insured, trained and specialized in tree removal techniques and stump grinding.  The best bet for any homeowner is to have several estimates regarding the issues within your landscape.  A professional will not try to talk you into removing trees that don’t need to be removed.  That is of course you as the homeowner have reasons to have the trees brought down.  Many healthy trees need a good trim every few years to clean up the dead limbs and branches that occur.  Every expert will have an opinion and a fee associated with it.  This is important to help you think clearly about what you actually want for your yard and space.  They often present options that home owners may not have considered.

If your decision is based solely on price alone make sure to determine if stump grinding is included in the package price.  Stump grinding is a long and tedious process for a homeowner and requires a lot of effort.  To be the most cost effective consider that each stump ground out by a professional will usually run between $90 and $150 to remove. To rent a stump grinder you are looking at about $190 for an entire day.  It will take you the day don’t think this is a four hour rental job.  Depending on the number of stumps you have to grind and the time that will be put into the job you can determine what option is most cost effective.

If you do decided to grind the stumps down on your own you can guarantee the neighbors will hide at this point.  This is not nearly as “fun” as dropping a tree. Call miss dig at least three or four days in advance of grinding as they will mark any lines to be aware of in the ground. When renting the stump grinder determine that the blade is sharp and the directions clear on how to operate the machine before leaving the rental place.  When you get the machine home there are several steps to take to ensure that a proper, safe job is done.

The first attack on the stump will not involve the grinder at all. That is correct, get ready with a shovel or mattock and begin removing rocks from all around the base of the stump.  Rocks cause the cutting wheel blade to get dull and could possible damage the blade causing a large time delay in actually removing the stump from the yard.  Make sure you are starting on a stump that has been cut as close to the ground as possible. This will help to make the process move along faster.

The wheel of the grinder should be placed about 3 to 5 inches above the stump to begin with.  It is best to start grinding at the front edge of the stump and lower the wheel into the stump, starting at 3 inches and going till about 5 inches. You will cut around the entire stump in this manner.  You will slowly move the wheel to the left and right which will cause the wood debris to begin clearing out.  If you are not worried about the root system of the tree you can stop at grinding around the tree until you have created a 4 or 5 inch deep hole.  At this point there will be a hole that can be filled with top soil, tamped down and covered with grass seed.  Hay will help hold the seed in place temporarily while it begins to sprout.

Tree and stump removal is a process that should be left to the professionals. So many things can go wrong if not done correctly including damage to property and life.  Professionals are insured and trained to take on tricky tree removal situations. They have the proper equipment to ensure a smooth, accident free job is done. Why chance it that is what I say.

 

 

 

MC Tree Service

Tips On Hiring A Criminal Defense Attorney

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

Most people don’t ever consider the fact that one day they may need a lawyer.  No one wakes up and says, “Today looks like a good day to get myself arrested.”  When it comes time to get a lawyer it is not something that is planned out.  Although selecting the right attorney for your case instantly becomes one of the biggest decisions you will make.  There are many things that go into selecting the right attorney for your case starting with finding someone that concentrates on the area of law in which you are finding yourself in trouble.

Selecting the right criminal defense attorney can be the most difficult issue in the whole nightmare.  You will want to choose an attorney that can represent you to the fullest level of service needed in a defense case along with taking into account their previous record, ability, price and practice experience.   When you find the right attorney you will know.  The combination of your case and your attorney will come together and fit like a glove.

If you are charged with a crime don’t settle for any attorney that your friends and family may know.  You want an attorney that specializes in criminal defense.  This is important as they have experience with prosecutors that other attorney’s don’t have.  A criminal attorney that has experience has probably handled cases similar to yours before and therefore can get concessions some attorneys may miss.  Attorneys now a day have websites that can help direct clients in the types of law they are experienced in.  A website is a great way to view the types of work and cases the attorney is familiar with before setting up an initial meeting.

There are several different concentrations criminal attorneys can specialize in.  Some tend to focus more on drunk driving cases, while some take on cases of rape and violent crimes.  It is not required that criminal defense attorneys specialize in one certain area of criminal law. What you are looking for is to find a defense attorney that is willing to put time and effort into representing your case as a unique case.

Many people charged with crimes have limited resources and settle for a public defender.  When it comes to your freedom a public defender is not the best option for you.  Public defenders are trying to juggle several cases if not hundreds of cases at a time for the state.  Therefore don’t have the necessary time to give to your specific case. This is obviously not a position you want to put yourself in when it comes to defending your freedom.  This is not to say that public defenders are in any way inept however more overwhelmed as their case loads are often larger than those of private attorneys.

Don’t settle when it comes to finding a lawyer to represent your well being.  Criminal cases are often lengthy and require you to work directly together towards a common goal; making sure that you don’t pay the price of a crime with your freedom.  Guilt is not something that can be assumed although it may feel like that when you are trying to prove your innocence.  Find a criminal defense attorney that you can collaborate with to find the best results in your case.

 

Longton Law

Choosing A Perfect Colored Shingle For Your Roof

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

Curb appeal is such an important aspect of homeownership. When considering the atheistic value of your home how often do you consider the color of the shingles on your roof? It is definitely not the most exciting aspect of your home. Choosing the color of your shingles may seem intimidating when you first begin the hunt to find the right color however below you will find four tips to narrow the selection down.
Consider Your Home’s Color When Choosing the Color of the Shingling
What color is the home’s vinyl siding, brick or stone? This is the most important thing to take into account when selecting the color of the shingle. It is too expensive to change the color of the exterior of your home. So naturally this is the first thing you should consider when choosing a shingle color to compliment your home’s roof. Contact a local roofing contractor to get shingle samples to find one that works with your home. A few colors that shingles come in might be absolutely out of the question for your home so ditch them from the selection process right away.
The Home’s Trim Should Compliment the Shingle Color
Although the trim and home’s siding should ultimately coordinate with one another already sometimes they don’t. Shingles should be a color that complement and enhance both the trim and the home’s exterior coloring. If the roofing shingle color doesn’t work for both the siding and the trim then it is not a contender for your roof unless you are willing to repaint all the home’s trim. Which seriously, are you even considering that at the point in which you already are in need of a new roof?
The Location of the Home Is a Large Element in Picking A Shingle Color
The last thing you want is for your home to be known as “that home” when choosing the color of the shingling. You don’t want your home to stick out like the sore thumb of the neighborhood. Consider the shingles that you have narrowed your choices down to and then look around to see which best compliments the shingles on the neighbor’s roofs as well.
Contemplate Shingle Coloring with the Style of your Home
Look at the style of your home when you are choosing a roof shingle color. Different styles warrant different colors. For instance if you have a Spanish style home blue shingles are not the best option. If the shingles compliment the exterior trim and siding but don’t fit the homes architecture then that is not the color for your home.
Find some ideas using the internet and looking in different home improvement magazines. Find homes similar in style, color and location as yours and see what has worked in the way of shingling color for them. The perfect shingle will soon be found and installed, by a professional roofing contractor, accentuating your home’s exterior. Hiring a professional roofing contractor will save you tons of money, time and energy no matter what color shingle you choose in the end.

Home Pro Roofing MI

Bathroom Remodeling Taking Into Consideration The Inevitable Aging Process

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

Every year our home finds a way to be updated, accidentally or planned, it happens. This year it is planned thankfully. The kitchen did not catch on fire from a faulty built in microwave, the pipes did not explode in the laundry room, and the kids did not spill every unknown substance on the living room floor, nothing. This year we planned to take on turning the master bathroom into a sanctuary. We also needed to take into consideration that we were getting older and with that coming physical challenges, such as a knee reconstruction, would make it difficult to use the tub/shower for much longer.
The first thing we did was to consider that even though a tub was out of the question we needed a space that promoted relaxation while showering. The last thing that was going to happen is a cramped, tight one person shower surround. Instead we constructed a barrier free entry shower that is large enough for a party with built in bench seating. The days of bending in every direction known to man to shave my legs in the shower were going to be a thing of the past. We also decided it was in our best interest to install grab bars and to make one of the multiple shower heads a hand held removable one. All of these details will allow us to age in this home and be comfortable.
The next thing I considered is that I wanted a minimal effort bathroom in regards to keeping it clean. For this reason I choose to have quartz countertops installed throughout the space. The sink station and vanity area are all quartz. The material requires minimal effort to maintain and looks great wet or dry which was perfect for the space.
A detail I wanted to make sure we did not overkill was the latest in bathroom trends. I did not want to be living in this space in ten years with an outdated master bathroom. I knew I disliked walking into a home and knowing exactly when the house was built based upon the trendy tile, colors on the wall or appliances. It is with that in mind that we went as neutral in the tile, countertop and wall color. We added color in with the use of trendy colors in the accent pieces throughout the space. A vase here, some hand towels and baskets make the space trendy without making it permanent.
As I mentioned before this is the home we are continually put time and money into as we intend to grow old here. With that in mind many of the home renovations that we decide to take on require us to consider that we are aging. The kids are getting older and moving on. We need to be able to access the space freely. This requires some fore thought and planning. When it comes to age in place remodeling we have several sources to look towards to make sure the upgrades we are making in the home meet with the National Association of Home Builders Certified Age in Place Specialist Designs. It is possible to maintain a home that is safe for our aging bodies without turning the house into a sterile hospital environment.
With every remodel, accidental or planned, from here on out we will be turning to the experts in age in place remodeling to ensure that we aren’t wasting time, money or effort in our home renovations.

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

Tree Removal Services Without Complications

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

When thinking about a landscaping design and creating a beautiful landscape you need to focus on not only what it looks like today but what it will look like in fifteen years. Think about how the trees, plants and flowers will look when they are mature. How filled out will the trees get? Will the flowers spread or are they the types of plants that stay the same size they are when you first plant them? When laying out the initial design you will need to look into the future to picture the growth of the trees, plants and shrubs that will occur.

Often time’s homeowners find that many pieces of the garden and landscape stay similar in size and shape however this is not true when it comes to trees. Trees, especially certain varieties can grow out of control and their size can get out of hand before anyone even realizes what is happening. If homeowners are not careful when planting certain varieties of trees they could be faced with the future prospect of tree removal and stump grinding which can be pricey depending on the location of the overgrown tree.

During the initial design phase there are certain elements to consider when planting. One of the many things homeowners need to consider is planting trees near retaining walls. If the design calls for a tree to be planted close to a wall of any kind make sure the tree variety is one that has a root base that does not spread beyond the width you have between the wall and the tree. If you find yourself in a situation that the tree is growing into the wall you will be faced with the pricey decision to remove the wall or to have the tree removed without damaging the wall.

Swimming pools are another landscape feature that trees can cause havoc in. If the trees roots invade the area near the pool it is potentially an expensive repair. Roots growing into the foundation of the pool could cause cracks and leaks within the pool area. When installing a new pool consider removing any trees that are within the area to avoid potential problems that can arise.

Driveways that are paved come to have issues as well with tree roots if the trees are planted to close the pavement. The trees roots are limited in growth by the pavement. The driveway will buckle and the tree roots will need to be removed. This is a costly fix. It is best to avoid planting large trees close to any pavement including driveways and sidewalks to prevent damage.

Tree roots can also wreak havoc on underground items that are not often considered when landscaping such as grinders and septic tanks. It would be a nightmare to have a large tree growing around your septic, well or grinder when it came time for repairs or replacements.

Owning a home is expensive enough on its own without causing issues that can be avoided with a little forethought. When considering a landscape design don’t just look at what the design is now but consider what it will be and the surroundings around the landscaping blueprint.

MC Tree Service

Tips On Getting Out Of A Driving Under The Influence Charge

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Thinking back upon the wonderful night out you had enjoying some much needed time with your spouse it is possible that one drink too many was had. Now you are facing charges you never considered you would encounter. A drunk driving offense on your record in the form of either a DUI or DWI is the last thing you want following you around. If you find yourself in a situation where you have been charged with a drunk driving offense there are several things you can do to enhance your chances of getting the charge reduced or even dropped.

The first thing you should do after your arrest is take time to sit down and record the detail of your arrest. Document what you were doing, who you were with, how much you had to drink, what you ate and other details that seem unimportant now but can help your defense later. It is important to take note of where you were stopped, what was said between you and the officer, the names of the officers who stopped you and the circumstances surrounding your arrest and booking. Remember during the entire process to be respectful to the officers and cooperate without providing incriminating information.

Immediately contact an attorney experienced in DUI cases. Driving under the influence or driving while intoxicated cases are incredibly complex cases and require experience in the law to get results for you. In order for the prosecution to prove you were under the influence or intoxicated above the legal limit they must prove that the testing method used to gain your blood alcohol level was working correctly. Local laws will also require certain proof as well. If the prosecution has not provided everything needed to prove guilt your lawyer will be able to play the system in your favor.

Every state has their own laws regarding field sobriety testing. In some states you can choose to refuse a field sobriety test. If this is an option in the state that you reside you may wish to invoke this right and forgo the alcohol sobriety test in the field. It is good to note that if officers decide to take you back to the police station a breathalyzer test may be required. If this is refused you will most likely lose your license. If you have an attorney available to consult with you may choose to have him/her meet you at the station to ensure your rights are not violated.

The last thing you want after a casual night out with a few beverages and drinks is to find yourself in a situation that leaves you battling a possible DUI or DWI. Take caution when out and about and having beverages. It is amazing how little one person actually has to drink before being considered over the legal limit to operate a motor vehicle. If you find yourself in this unfamiliar situation don’t panic. Hiring an experienced DUI attorney that will help you face the charges at hand will make all the difference in the world when it comes to what is reported on your permanent record, if anything at all.

Longton Law

Opening Season For Your Homes Pool

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Opening a swimming pool at the beginning of summer can be a challenge, especially if you are a new pool owner. There are several steps to be taken to ensure your pool is ready for the fast approaching season. Below is a check list to consider when opening your home’s pool. If it is your first time owning a pool it is best to consider hiring a pool service company to come out and walk you through your first opening season.

If the pool has been properly covered throughout the winter season the first task at hand will be to remove the cover. You will want to manage this without allowing the debris that has collected on the top to find its way into the pool. Your pool leaf net and broom can help with this chore.

If the cover has standing water that has accumulated over the winter you will want to pump this off before attempting to remove the cover.

This is the time you will want to inspect the pools marcite surface, the pool tile and pool coping. Taking care of these issues before opening the pool will save you a lot of time and headache. Plus your pool will be 100% for the entire season.

If all is well with your pools surface and no major/minor repairs are needed you can continue the process of opening your pool by removing any freeze plugs that might have been put in place to protect against freezing. Now is the time to bring the pools water level up to where it should be as well.

Ensure your pools filter was properly cleaned before the pool was closed in the winter. If this has not been done you will want to do it now. Once the filter is clean prime the pump and starts the motor of the filter system up. It is important that you release the air build up in the lines before beginning this process. Once things are up and running check for leaks.

The next step is to clean any debris that might have accumulated. This includes dirt, algae and other debris. Once the pool is clean and the water level up to par it is time to check the chemistry of the water. Test the water after it has been in the pool and circulating for a day or so. Add only the necessary chemicals, in the proper order to ensure the proper water balance.

Next install all the extra goodies that enhance your pool such as the handrails, ladders, slides and diving boards. Double check to ensure all the equipment is in working order and is not cracked or wore down.

The final step is to jump in and enjoy! The pool season is quick in most areas. Make the most out of it by making sure that the pool is in tip top shape at the beginning of the season and closed properly at the end.

Pound Pool Plastering

What To Know When Buying Jewelry

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

When buying anything research is the best way to guarantee that you are getting what you are paying for. Jewelry is one of those items that people only purchase once in awhile so research is necessary to ensure you are getting what you pay for and are overpaying for what you are getting.

Like cars and homes, jewelry is one of those items that you can bargain with the seller as many times there is wiggle room in the price. Jewelry products purchased from many retail locations can be guaranteed to be marked up over one hundred percent. Inventory on jewelry does not turn over nearly as fast as inventory in other retail settings because of this the mark up is higher. Many retail locations will advertise a fifty percent off sale but note like with furniture sales many times the product gets marked way up over cost to be able to be “marked down”. One way to avoid paying huge markups is to purchase jewelry online. Purchasing jewelry online can help consumers avoid increase markups.

There are ways to cut costs when looking for the perfect piece of diamond jewelry. We will use the purchase of an engagement ring as an example for our purposes. If you know what you are looking for when it comes to the style your bride to be will adore for a lifetime then buying the diamond is a whole lot easier.

When considering the four Cs of diamonds it is important to note that a diamond can only be graded while it is upside down. How many times do you think someone will have your bride to be taking off her ring so they can scope out the color or clarity of the stone you purchased? None trust me here unless your father-in-law to be is a jeweler of course. I always say the most important of the four Cs of diamond shopping is the cut because once the stone is set no one will be able to tell from your finger the color or clarity of your stone. The cut however is important as it will determine how the piece will catch the light. A well cut stone will reflect light at every angle and give the piece a sparkle every bride adores.

Another thing to keep in mind when buying any piece of jewelry is the size of the stone. Think about it; what is the first thing that people ask when looking at your jewelry? What carat size is that? Diamonds and many other stones are pricier when they hit the magic number of 1.00. If you are looking to purchase a beautiful piece but at a slightly less expensive rate consider a stone that is .96 carats. To the naked eye no one will be the wiser however your pocket book will notice the difference.

Purchasing jewelry online can save you a bundle as well. Be sure when purchasing from an online retailer to consider the tips above and also make sure you are purchasing from a reputable establishment. A lot of times purchasing jewelry online can be done at a fraction above the wholesale price saving you a bundle.

DaRoche Jewelers

Mistakes To Avoid When Remodeling A Kitchen

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

What is the secret to a kitchen renovation that ends up being exactly what you wanted in the end result? The answer; know what mistakes to avoid. In talking with friends, family and neighbors you are sure to hear a great deal of stories on remodeling mistakes. Homeowners can keep their own kitchen remodel from become a disaster by avoiding the blunders those before them have made.

Mistake # 1: Small Details before Large Details

Many people are guilty of this living life in general. How many times do you choose a car before considering the bigger picture of insurance and fuel costs? The car payment is only one small detail in the long term ownership and cost associated with the car.

The same is true in kitchen remodeling. Choosing a material for a counter top before considering how family friendly it is for example can be a costly mistake. Although soapstone is a beautiful material for counters it requires a lot of care. Time caring for the counter takes away time needed to cart kids in the car pool, cook dinner, etc… It is not wise to look into purchasing new appliances before considering exactly what the layout of the kitchen will be after the remodel. Consider the project as a whole. Look at where your family is right now, the lifestyle you are accustomed too and the space constraints before choosing a style and design for your kitchen. This will help you considerably in saving you time and money.

Mistake # 2: Fad over Classic Beauty

Think about all the kitchens you have seen in all the homes you have visited or toured. You can tell the date the house was built when the home still has its original kitchen in place. When thinking about kitchen fad’s there is several that instantly come to mind. The first being country kitchens. Picture the kitchen; I am sure you have seen it. Chickens decorating a border filled with red barns and hay bales, yellow walls and vinyl flooring. What about the checkered floor in black and white with hints of red like an old fashion ice cream parlor? That was popular for a bit. This is what homeowners should avoid in renovating their kitchens.

Look at kitchens you know of that have stood the test of time. What elements do they have in common? Radical colors and flashy features are not prominent. Instead these kitchens stick with classic, neutral colors and appliances. Counter tops are kept conservative and patterns are eliminated. This is what keeps a kitchen classic.

Mistake # 3: Not Hiring A Professional Kitchen Contractor

It is not cheaper to do it yourself in the case of a kitchen remodel. When you consider professional kitchen contractors work with wholesale prices and consider the value of your time. Hiring a professional will help when it comes to addressing the homeowners real needs verses the wants that can drive a budget out of control. A professional will help homeowners access the needs, along with the desires of the homeowners and estimate a realistic budget. This can help a ton in the kitchen remodeling process as a whole.

Glen Miller The Home Doctor