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Which Heating Options Do New Home Builder Recommend

New construction: secrets your buyers should know

Purchasing a new-construction home is different from buying a resale home. Here are some tips and items to keep in mind if you have a client interested in purchasing new construction.

Most builder prices are influenced by the following:

Location

Cost of the land

Size of the home

Cost of the building materials

Labor costs

Real estate market conditions

Builder impact fees

Purchasing new construction is usually more complicated and intimidating than buying a resale home. It is important with a new-home purchase that a buyer hire a real estate agent to represent them in this process. This agent should be a local expert and have experience with newly constructed homes. Builder contracts and the building process is different from what most real estate agents deal with on a daily basis, so having new construction experience is important.

As a real estate agent who specializes in an area with a lot of new construction, buyers ask me all the time if they can use a real estate agent when they are purchasing new construction. The answer is yes.

In general, builders’ model homes are staffed by agents who work directly for and represent the builder. A buyer also needs to have a real estate agent who represents them and looks after their best interests.

Home construction loans explained

Financing the construction of a home requires a different kind of mortgage than when you buy a new or older home. Here’s what you need to know about getting a construction loan.

What is a construction loan?

How do construction loans work?

Types of construction loans

Factors to consider about construction loans

How to get a home construction loan

How to find a home construction loan lender

What is a construction loan?

A home construction loan is a short-term, higher-interest loan that provides the funds required to build a residential property

A construction loan can be used to cover the cost of the land, contractor labor, building materials, permits and more. It’s important to discuss these items with your lender, specifically what will be included in your loan-to-value calculation,

How do construction loans work?

Construction loans usually have variable rates that move up and down with the prime rate, according. Construction loan rates are typically higher than traditional mortgage loan rates. With a traditional mortgage, your home acts as collateral — and if you default on your payments, the lender can seize your home. With a home construction loan, the lender doesn’t have that option, so they tend to view these loans as bigger risks.

Because construction loans are on such a short timetable and they’re dependent on the completion of the project, you need to provide the lender with a construction timeline, detailed plans and a realistic budget.

Things To Do If Your Contractor Doesn’t Finish The Job

Remember having a detailed contract (even just an itemized bill for smaller jobs) with a payment schedule that reflects milestones (work actually completed), doing a background check, and checking references can help protect you during a renovation but what if you do everything right and still get left high and dry by your contractor with an incomplete or unsatisfactory job?

The number one way to deal with a bad situation is to discuss the issues with your contractor. Having an open and honest discussion based on mutual respect goes a long way and depending on the scope of the project you should be having weekly updates either in person or via email (I always encourage to have a paper trail). Most importantly, understand the reasons for the delays, etc. and find an amicable solution.

Make sure you have documented all your attempts to reach your contractor with phone calls, texts, and emails.

If the job is incomplete and a solution cannot be found, you could stop paying the contractor, fire your contractor and/or hire another contractor to complete the job (remember to keep a paper trail of work completed and costs).

Do a name and company search on your contractor with the BBB (Better Business Bureau, Chamber of Commerce and city for information on the contractor). The Better Business Bureau can offer arbitration services for disputes between consumers and businesses for low or no fees

Hidden Costs of New Homes That Can Burn Buyers

Many homebuyers think that purchasing a newly constructed home is smarter than purchasing a “used” one. A brand-new home’s maintenance and repair costs should be minimal; its construction materials, systems, and appliances should be up to the latest code and energy efficient; the floor plan and amenities should meet the needs of contemporary living, and the place should be move-in ready. A brand new property also has an emotional appeal for buyers: No wear-and-tear, and no dealing with someone else’s taste or mistakes—or so the reasoning goes

What many buyers don’t realize is that new homes still often have numerous hidden costs. If you’re purchasing new construction from a builder or real estate developer, here’s what you should look out for to make sure you’re spending your money wisely and don’t incur any unpleasant surprises.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Buying a newly constructed home requires almost as much attention to detail as buying a previously owned one. Inspect a new home carefully, as it can have hidden defects.

When viewing model homes, understand what’s standard and what constitutes an upgraded feature, which of course will cost you more.

You should have your own real estate agent and research your own mortgage—don’t assume the builder’s terms are the best.

Hidden Defects

Just like an older home, a brand-new home can contain several hidden, or “latent,” defects that could require expensive repairs. A weak slab could crack. Siding could fall off. The wood floors could warp. Your toilet could overflow. Electrical wiring could be done incorrectly. Heavy rains can reveal inadequate waterproofing or grading that leads to leaks or flooding. Any problem that you might be afraid to find in an existing home can also appear in a brand-new one.

To protect yourself, research the builder’s reputation along with the subcontractors used before you commit to a purchase. And always pay for a thorough inspection by an independent home inspector who is not affiliated with the builder.

How To Choose The Best Builder For Your Dream Home

Not sure how to make that very important final decision?

For many, building a new home may only happen once, so it is vital to select the right building company to bring your dream home to life.

Specialist.

Start by finding a building company who has extensive experience and specialist expertise in the type of construction work you’re after. Whether that is; a custom-built new home, an extensive renovation, multi-residential development, mixed-residential development, commercial fit-out or refurbishment. You want a specialist team who knows exactly what to expect in any situation.

Trustworthy.

The first step in your journey to a successful build is to meet with the building team. It is important to find a builder that you like and trust with your dream home build. The way the builder treats you throughout this initial process is how you will be treated during the build. Ask yourself, were they prompt in returning phone calls and emails? Did they make themselves available to meet in person? Did they offer feedback and advice regarding the building process? A reputable builder will offer guidance regarding specifications and suggest ways to reduce building costs without compromising the standard of the build

Professional.

So how can you be sure that the builder is going to be professional throughout the building process? When interviewing builders, ask about their proven build process. If the builder mentions they use an online project management system, you can feel confident that they are among the most professional in the industry.

Comprehensive.

When receiving a quote from a builder, you would expect the quote to be accurate and detailed. If it is not, then be prepared for extra costs to occur during the build. When quoting a home build there are many things to factor into the final price. A briefing meeting with the builder and client should be set up to determine what needs to be included in the home. These meetings can take a couple of hours but are a vital part of ensuring that what you envisage to be included in your new home quote actually is.

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Laminate Flooring Is Very Easy To Look After Them

Is Laminate Flooring an Excellent Idea for DIY Home Improvements?

In recent years, the scale and ambition of the average home improvement project has increased significantly due to the affordability and flexibility of new products and the wealth of supporting tools and information available to the average homeowner. Painting, window treatments, landscaping, and adding flooring are some common home renovations that homeowner mostly want to replace after some years. Flooring is one of the first things you see in your home when entering. It needs to withstand more wear and tear than other materials. As the flooring is the hardest working surface in your home, you need to choose the best flooring materials.

One of the most common home improvement projects that was far from common a decade ago is the installation of laminate wood flooring in one or many rooms. The old flooring can look ugly odorous, and can create health problems for family members and pets. Removing old carpets or vinyl, and replacing it with low-maintenance, easy to install, laminate flooring can transform your entire home in little time. This was once not at all common to see in standard homes, and if it did appear, it was generally only in the living room areas or a hallway. Nowadays though, laminate flooring is seen everywhere and has more and more frequently has even been installed by the homeowner.

What is Laminate Flooring?

Laminate flooring is a cost-effective option amongst all the types of wood flooring. Unlike solid wood flooring and engineered wood flooring, which uses real wood, laminate flooring uses a decorative paper with an image of wood adhered to a medium density fiberboard. Due to its appearance, versatility, ease of installation, and cheaper price, laminate wood flooring is gaining popularity over other types of wood flooring.

Where can Laminate Wood Flooring be Installed?

Laminate wood flooring can be installed in any room such as living room, bedroom, and dining room at any grade. If a proper finish is applied, it can be effectively installed in kitchen areas and in basements. Laminate swells in the presence of moisture, so it is not advisable to install it in wet areas like bathrooms and laundry rooms.

Components of a Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring consists of four basic layers. The top transparent layer is called wear layer or overlay, which protects the floor from scratches and stains. The second layer is called a design layer which is a photographic image of wood. The third layer is the core layer, which is a medium-density or high-density fibreboard. Lastly, a backing layer is provided for resisting moisture and balancing the floor.

Different Types and Styles of Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring is one of the most beautiful flooring types that can be installed at an affordable price. Considered by many to be the next big design trend, it imitates wood, tile or stone flooring. Essentially, this flooring is layers of adhered fibreboard with an image of the wood, tile or stone printed on top.

Laminate flooring can give you a realistic looking of wood, tile or stone appearance without the hustle of cleaning soiled grout joints. It is resistant to burns, scratches, and heat, and very easy to maintain.

This type of floor is often confused with real engineered hardwood flooring. Engineered wood flooring is constructed totally from real wood plies that are laminated together. On the other hand, laminate flooring consists of fiber core boards with a photographic print layer and a clear top coating of melamine resins.

Laminate flooring can be used anywhere. Because it isn’t affected by humidity and moisture in the same way as true hardwood, making it a popular choice for below, at, or above grade.

Based on Installation Types

One way you can classify laminate flooring is by installation type. This is especially important to consider if you’re installing the laminate flooring yourself.

Under House Wood Floor Sealant Reviews

What Kind of Vacuum Do You Need if You Have Hardwood Flooring and Carpet? How Does Radiant Heat Work in a House? .

porous nature means that water from under your home can seep up through your concrete floor making it damp. This can cause issues with mold

ever had hardwood floors finished with polyurethane you likely had the same issue we did in our past homes- a noticeable wear pattern

Where to Buy Optimized drying technology results in faster recoat time between coats. Refinish Your Floors Using Minwax Wood Stains

You can paint the walls add accessories and even replace furniture on a budget Solid wood has been one of the most popular types of flooring in the U.S. for decades. One of the biggest complaints about vinyl is that it not eco-friendly. For decades it mostly disappeared from homes as vinyl became more popular.

AFFORDABLE FLOORING SERVICES

Hardwood Floors specializing in hardwood flooring installation services surrounding areas. flooring contractors specialise in offering expert services to owners of residential and commercial properties. can easily tackle new construction, home improvement, or restoration projects. A reputation that’s famous for quality work with a reputation you can trust

install all kinds of hardwood floors:

* Flooring Contractor Services

* Hardwood Floor Installation Services

* Hardwood Floor Repair Services

* Hardwood Floor Sanding Services

* Hardwood Floor Refinishing Services

* Wood Floor Installation Services

* Wood Floor Repair Services

* Bamboo Floor Installation Services

* Bamboo Floor Repair Services

* Engineered Floors Installation and Repair

* Cork Floor Installation Services

* Cork Floor Repair Services

* Laminate Floor Installation Services

* Laminate Floor Repair Services

* Recoat & Refinishing

* Stair Installation – radius work

* Solid Treads & Interlocking Risers

* Swedish, oil base polyurethane and waterborne Swedish finishes

* Any stain color, including pastels

Benefits of Hardwood Floors:

Many real estate specialists industry experts agree with the fact that hard wood floors are a good investment because of the comfort

Attractiveness and value that they add to your property, but additionally simply because:

That they are easy to clean and maintain

They are often replaced simply by sanding & refinishing

Promote the much healthier indoor living environment

Inside a recently available nationwide questionnaire involving real estate agents, 90% declared that households having hardwood floors sell quicker as well as for more money as compared with houses without having wooden floors.

best corded vacuum cleaners for spotless carpets and clean floors

While many cordless vacuum cleaners are now rivalling corded ones when it comes to suction, they are generally a lot more expensive and need recharging before use. Corded vacs, on the other hand, are ready to go whenever you are

There’s a lot to think about when buying one. Someone with a small flat with all hard floors, for example, may need a different machine to someone with a big carpeted house, with lots of stairs. You’ll need to decide between cylinder or upright models. Cylinder machines tend to be smaller and lighter, as well as more manoeuvrable and flexible.

A good filter – which removes microscopic allergens for cleaner air – is important if you have an allergy sufferer in the family. Make sure you get the accessories you need too. We tested for all these things, trying out machines on different surfaces, and with different size debris, as well as taking into consideration manoeuvrability and heaviness

Everything about this feels beautifully engineered and it excels on all floor types (you just flick a switch to change between carpets and hard floors), as well as on stairs and upholstery, removing everything from fine dust to dropped cereal even from the deepest crevices such as floorboards. It has great reach, is superb at trapping dust and allergens and is exceptionally quiet, as well as being easy to manoeuvre. The three tools – upholstery nozzle, crevice tool and dusting brush – are all genuinely handy and stored on board. The bags each hold 4.5l, meaning you rarely have to replace them and when you do, it’s an easy enough task.

This vacuum offers extraordinarily good value. We found it’s significantly better at sucking up everything from dust to pet hair, as well as larger debris such as spilt rice or lentils, than other vacs in this price range (and many more expensive ones too) even when the dust canister is full. There’s variable suction, thanks to the slider at the front, and a combination floor head that we found worked across all floor types. At this price, don’t expect whizzy features like advanced filters, and you only get a crevice and upholstery and dusting tool by way of accessories. However, this is a terrific vac for anyone on a budget.

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Exterior Painting Siding Choices And Installation Costs

How to Paint a Room in One Day

Does your space feel a little… drab? A fresh coat of paint in a trendy shade is the quickest ways to rehab a tired space. And since it’s a project most homeowners can tackle themselves, it’s one of the most affordable, too.

But as easy as painting sounds, there are some tricks to the trade. Take prep work, for example. If you skip this important step, you could end up with a real problem on your hands — an undercoat that shows through or peeling paint. If you’re painting latex over oil, for example, you’ll likely get cracking

Make a plan

Before you ever pick up a paint brush, you need a plan of attack. Think of it sort of like cooking. You want to read the recipe all the way through before you start blindly throwing ingredients into the pot — otherwise, you might get halfway through and realize you’re missing an important component.

Select a color.

When it comes to paint shades, the options are boundless. It’s a fortunate problem: While you’ll inevitably find just what your’e looking for, landing on the right hue can be quite the process.

Paint your sample.

Once you have sample cans in hand, paint swatches on the wall. To give you a good idea of how the color will look in your space, paint two coats of color in a 12-inch-by-12-inch square. If your room has both sunny and shady spots, it’s smart to put swatches in both areas, as this can affect the final look.

Paint your house

Looking for a project to keep you off the streets these holidays? Painting your home is well worth the time. It’ll improve the look of your home, reduce the amount, and cost, of long term maintenance and increase its value too.

All in the preparation

Painting over a poorly prepared surface is a waste of time and money as it won’t last very long. If the old paint is in good condition, all it needs is a wash to remove any dirt. Flaking paint should be scraped off until it’s sound then sanded to blend the remaining paint with the bare surface. Glossy paint and materials should be lightly sanded to roughen the surface and allow the new paint to bond.

Undercoats

All bare timber will need to be undercoated. An oil-based undercoat is best as it helps to seal the timber. If you’re using a water-based enamel as your final coat, go over the oil-based with an acrylic undercoat to provide a better bond. Water-based exterior paints generally don’t need undercoats as they are self-priming. Exceptions to this are when you are using bright or dark colours. There are also a range of specialist undercoats for binding loose or chalky surfaces, for quickly covering dark colours and for sealing in stains.

Which paint where?

Exterior walls, eaves and fascia (the part the gutter sits on) are best painted in exterior acrylics which are water-based. They dry quickly and are designed to handle the tough Aussie conditions. Use low sheen on walls and eaves as they hide minor imperfections and semi gloss on the fascia. Timber windows and doors are best coated in enamels, which are more hard-wearing than acrylics. A water-based enamel is a good option as it dries quickly and won’t fade over time. Choose a gloss or semi gloss finish.

Painting metal

Metal surfaces need special attention. If it’s rusted, scrape off any loose rust and treat with a rust converter. This stops the rusting process and prepares the surface for fresh paint. Use metal primer on all bare metal. A spray paint is the best way to tackle intricate surfaces with lots of nooks and crannies. Finish off with a paint specifically designed to go onto metal in the finish of your choice.

ALL ABOUT PAINTING BRICK, IS IT A GOOD IDEA AND WHAT PAINT TO USE?

Is painting brick a good idea?

Bricks will absorb moisture from the interior of a home and they need to be able to expel that moisture; applying paint to the exterior can cause the paint and masonry to lift, peel or crack as it can become susceptible to freeze thaw cycles in cold climates. Beyond just aesthetics, moisture trapped inside a brick facade can also affect the strength and integrity of mortar, putting the entire wall surface

What kind of paint do you use for brick?

Let’s start with what NOT to use – never paint bricks with standard oil or latex paint, it will trap moisture inside and cause the paint to peel and chip. The problem lies in the fact that bricks are porous, and they need to remain so. In order for them to function properly, there cannot be a ‘waterproof’ coating applied that prevents them from drying to the exterior. 

How mineral paint for brick works:

Rather than forming a coating on the brick, these waterborne mineral paints cause a chemical reaction that permanently binds them to the brick substrate. These are silica-based products that are biocompatible with bricks and stone and are actually absorbed into the surface of the brick.

The pigments of these mineral paints are natural inorganic iron oxide and are unaffected by UV rays. They are also resistant to frost and prevent the formation of fungi and molds. Applying mineral paints and dyes to bricks should offer you a maintenance-free service life of 20-30 years.

Does painting brick increase home value?

That depends on the condition of the bricks and the style of the neighborhood and surrounding homes. But if you are hoping to increase home value, painting exterior brick cladding likely won’t do it in all but the most extreme case of either damaged bricks, or just plain ugly ones! In fact, it is just as likely that painting brick will devalue your home.

HOW TO PAINT EXTERIOR BRICK

Tomorrow I’m revealing the bedroom balcony and it’s SO gorgeous, but before we get to the good stuff- I’ve had LOTS of questions about the painted brick. How did I choose a color? What does the process for painting brick look like? How do you know if your brick is paintable? Why did I paint the brick in the first place? The list goes on… I figured today I’d share the tutorial and answer allllllll of the questions with a quick Q&A before the big reveal tomorrow

I’m going to dive right into the tutorial! If you’re interested in painting your brick, first you need to determine IF it can be painted. The best way to make the call is to chat with a professional. Otherwise, I’m offering some insight in the Q&A at the end of the post that might help you weigh the pros, cons, and determine what product is best for your type of brick

Prep. As a reminder, this is what the balcony looked like before (pictured above). I began by prepping the area for paint. I thoroughly cleaned the brick with a pressure washer on the lowest setting, then scrubbed it with a scrub brush, mild cleaner, and rinsed it really well. I allowed it to totally dry before proceeding to the next step.

Condition the brick. Next, I conditioned the brick. Using a 3/4″ roller and scrap paint brush, I completely covered the brick in Acrylic Conditioner. Once it was finished, the coloring looked like this

Paint the brick. Once the conditioner was totally dry (24 hours later), I began painting. I used Self-Cleaning Acrylic Coating. This looks just like regular paint, so you can pick any colors from swatches. I went with the color Nuance SW 7049.

HOW LONG DOES EXTERIOR PAINT LAST?

Exterior paint can last 5 to 10 years, depending on the type of paint you use and the surrounding environment. Therefore, you can lengthen the time that a finish will last by prepping the surface properly and investing in a paint that matches the type of exterior that is being repainted.

Give the Exterior a Good Power Wash

The first thing you want to do to prepare your home for painting is to give it a good power wash. A power wash frees a home of contaminants and ensures a smoother painted finish. Power washing gets rid of any cracking, peeling or bubbling that may be currently present and eliminates any distracting residue.

The Kind of Paint You Choose is Important

It never hurts to invest in a good-quality, if not premium, paint when you are making a paint selection. Stucco is a solid surface and does not expand or contact like siding or wood. Therefore, you generally do not have to pay as much for painting this surface as you do when you buy paint for siding or wood. Expect to pay around $55 to $65 per gallon for painting a home that has a wood or sided exterior.

Make Sure the Painting Contractor is Licensed, Bonded and Insured

You also want to contact a contractor that is well-known in the local area for quality work. To begin the process, check such sites as List online. Make sure the contractor is licensed, bonded and contractor of this standing is normally committed to working in the community and to building a good reputation with his customers.

Surface Preparation – The Key to a Pristine Finish

Besides power washing, surface preparation is another important component of painting an exterior that will last for a longer length of time. Surfaces should be caulked as well as scraped and sanded and fascia boards should patched and prepped as well. If the exterior is made of wood, then the painter should prime the surface before he applies the paint.

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Bathroom Remodeling Tips From The Pros

Things Every Great Bathroom Needs

High-End Finishes

Finishes on your cabinets, countertops, flooring, and hardware dictate the style and level of luxury of your bathroom, so choose these finishes carefully for an eye-catching and cohesive bathroom look. Take a more traditional approach to bathroom design by combining rustic flooring, granite or marble countertops, and copper or iron hardware for a warm and homey bathroom space, or go for a space-age modern look with bright tile floors, quartz countertops, and chrome or silver hardware. Whatever your taste, the quality and the cohesiveness of these finishes will determine the success of your bathroom design.

Durable Flooring

Bathroom floors deal with tons of splashes, spills, and the occasional toilet overflow, so they must be able to stand up to any level of moisture, and retain their beauty and luster in the process. Plus, they should be relatively easy to clean, as bathrooms harbor more germs and microorganisms than any other place in your home.

A Stunning Sink

Not all sinks are created equal—it’s up to you to find a sink that matches your desired aesthetic, and makes a statement in your new bathroom space. Luckily, sink design becomes more and more diverse by the year, so you’ll always have a sink option that fits your needs.

A Powerful Toilet

You’ll probably never own one of the world’s most expensive toilets, but you can find a proper porcelain throne for your new bathroom space (you really don’t have a choice). While your toilet doesn’t have to be bluetooth and USB 3.0 capable, it does need to have enough flushing power to take care of business—so do your research before making the plunge on a new loo for your space.

The Best Showerhead

If you have a great showerhead, does anything else really matter in your new bathroom? A high quality showerhead combined with firehose-esque water pressure is the pinnacle of comfort and relaxation, and one of life’s greatest pleasures—so why would you penny-pinch when it comes to your showerhead? There are a number of great showerheads on the market today that run under $200, with many variations that meet your needs. Perhaps you’re looking for a high-powered shower wand with a hose attachment that helps you clean all those hard-to-reach areas, and can double as a pet-cleaning machine. Or maybe you’d rather pretend you’re bathing beneath an amazonian waterfall with a ceiling-mounted waterfall showerhead. Whatever the case, don’t go for the dirt-cheap motel bathroom showerhead—you’ll almost certainly regret it once shower time rolls around.

Things to Expect During a Bathroom Remodel

Your bathroom stands as one of the most important rooms in your home. It’s the one room you will always use daily. There are many great upgrades you can introduce to make this area even better. If you’re going for a bathroom remodeling

Dust

When getting a bathroom remodel, expect the work to kick up a lot of dust. This holds true especially when you go for major jobs like retiling.

Noise

advises homeowners to schedule the work around their day-to-day lives. As much as possible, schedule the work during times when you’re away from home, like work hours. Additionally, it’s important that you inform your neighbors and coordinate with them to ensure things go smoothly. Particularly noisy bathroom work involves changes to the pipes and even components like the toilets or shower/bathtub areas.

Budget Shifts

Any remodeling or replacement job sees shifts in the budget from a number of reasons. The most common of these issues is unanticipated needs or changing priorities. This actually happens less frequently when we perform bathroom remodeling

Better Bathrooms

offers many great bathroom products. regular and walk-in bathtubs, for example, sport 100 percent non-porous acrylic for improved durability. We also offer safety options like liners and handicap-friendly implements to meet the special needs of some members of your family

bathroom installation and remodeling

design, production, and project management teams will implement our stress-free systems to ensure a seamless and worry-free bathroom renovation experience that will be completed in a timely fashion.

offer bathroom remodeling services for those on a budget, as well as custom designs and installations for homeowners considering a more distinctive look.

full bathroom installation package – for only $9,999 – includes the toilet, vanity, countertop, sink, faucets, shower doors, tile, grout, and bathroom fixtures (towel rack and toilet paper dispenser). Installation covers removal of old fixtures and replacement with new fixtures in the same location

Custom bathroom upgrades, plumbing and electrical requirements, as well as bathrooms larger than 5 x 8, can be completed for an additional cost.

provide an extensive line of options from leading manufacturers for completing your bathroom, including:

Many cabinet style options from leading manufacturers Wolf Home Products and Timberlake in a variety of color-glaze combinations. Cabinet options are available in solid wood fronts – maple, cherry, oak, and hickory – as well as Duraform.

Granite countertops in 15 styles.

Sinks and toilets from American Standard and Bertch.

Floor, wall, and border ceramic tile options from Mohawk.

Glass sliding shower doors from Kohler.

Chrome faucets and fixtures from American Standard and Moen

HIDDEN PROBLEMS OF A BATHROOM REMODEL

Bathrooms are botched more than any other room in the house. With bathroom remodels people often focus on easy-to-see things like tile colors and layout, or special amenities like heated floors. These are all important, but you also need to think about the stuff behind the tile and under the floors—all the hidden conditions that can derail a project.

It is very common when remodeling a bathroom to find walls that aren’t level, deficient wiring, improperly installed plumbing, and floor joists that have been cut, drilled, notched or even removed to accommodate pipes or drains.

Expect the Unexpected

When preparing for a bathroom remodel, expect more expense, time, disruption and problems than you planned on. Surprises of one kind or another are so common that they’re actually predictable. When you expect the unexpected, however, you can reduce a lot of stress

Many people have no clue about the hidden costs of remodeling, and a lot of contractors do not advise their clients of them either. (You can scare away a lot of business that way!) Hidden conditions are things like finding and then needing to repair termite damage, improper wiring, outdated plumbing, abating asbestos, or repairing floor joist damage. Any or all of these can stop a remodel process midway and add time and money to the project. Plan for these situations by setting aside 10-20 percent of your budget to address them.

Old or Corroded Plumbing

A bathroom renovation presents a great time to deal with old, outdated systems, things like corroded cast iron or galvanized drains and water supply lines. Even copper water supply lines can be hiding problems if the joints are corroded. Flexible PEX piping joined with “push-fit” connections offer an easy-to-use alternative to soldering copper lines for DIY’ers who need to make a replacement.

How much does a bathroom renovation

Whether you’re looking to spruce up your forever home, increase your rental return on an investment property or even top up the value of a property before you sell, then you’ll probably be considering a bathroom renovation

Housing Industry Association (HIA) released the kitchens and bathroom renovation report. Their survey found that the average cost of a bathroom renovation was $17,522.

The average bathroom renovations cost outlined above, however, can be really deceiving. How much your bathroom renovation is going to cost you comes down to many factors and variables, and because of this, the true cost of a bathroom renovation will fluctuate depending on your style, needs and circumstances.

If you’re looking to change a few cosmetic things in your bathroom (like fixtures, drawer and cupboard knobs etc) before putting it on the market, it could cost even less. However, keep in mind that a bathroom renovation (along with kitchens) is one of the most effective ways to increase the value of your property

What determines the cost of a bathroom renovation?

Some of the major reasons why one bathroom might cost $8,000 – $10,000 to renovate while another bathroom renovation might cost $20,000 – $25,000 include:

Whether you need to undertake structural work or not

The cost of floor tiles, wall tiles, fittings etc – are you going down a high end or budget route?

Additions such as a skylights or new windows

The size of the bathroom – is it an ensuite or a large family bathroom?

Whether you’re moving plumbing and fixtures

Whether you’re installing a new bathroom altogether

Luxury elements like underfloor heating

Revamping your bathroom lighting and how much electrical work you need

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Finding The Right Dentist For Cosmetic Surgery

What are the most common dental problems?

Dental and oral health is an essential part of your overall health and well-being. Poor oral hygiene can lead to dental cavities and gum disease, and has also been linked to heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Maintaining healthy teeth and gums is a lifelong commitment. The earlier you learn proper oral hygiene habits — such as brushing, flossing, and limiting your sugar intake — the easier it’ll be to avoid costly dental procedures and long-term health issues.

Facts about dental and oral health

Dental cavities and gum disease are very common. According to the World Health OrganizationTrusted Source:

  • between 60 and 90 percent of school children have at least one dental cavity
  • nearly 100 percent of adults have at least one dental cavity
  • between 15 and 20 percent of adults ages 35 to 44 have severe gum disease
  • about 30 percent of people around the world ages 65 to 74 don’t have any natural teeth left
  • in most countries, out of every 100,000 people, there are between 1 and 10 cases of oral cancer
  • the burden of oral disease is much higher in poor or disadvantaged population groups

Common dental problems

Dental issues are never any fun, but the good news is that most of them can easily be prevented. From tooth sensitivity to chipped teeth to bad breath, we share some of the most common dental problems along with possible causes, treatments and prevention tips.

Gum disease

Also referred to as gingivitis in the early stages and periodontal disease in later stages, gum disease in an infection of the gums surrounding your teeth. Smoking, dry mouth and diabetes can increase your risk of developing gum disease, and tooth loss can occur if left untreated. Gum disease treatment options may include scaling and root planing.

Tooth decay

Tooth decay, which leads to cavities, happens when the plaque on your teeth combines with sticky, starchy foods you consume. This combination creates acids that attack tooth enamel. The best way to prevent tooth decay is to take care of your teeth and gums by brushing and flossing daily and getting twice yearly dental checkups. Tooth decay treatment can involve fillings, crowns or a root canal.

Bad breath

Also known as halitosis, bad breath is a common (and embarrassing) oral condition. It can be caused by gum disease, cavities, dry mouth and bacteria in your mouth. While using mouthwash and drinking plenty of water offer a temporary fix, treating the underlying issue may be the best remedy.

Tooth sensitivity

This common dental condition causes pain or discomfort when teeth are exposed to hot or cold food and beverages. Even brushing and flossing can cause discomfort. Causes include a tooth abscess or a cracked tooth. Tooth sensitivity treatment may include bonding, a root canal or desensitizing toothpaste.

Canker sores

Canker sores can occur inside your mouth and make it uncomfortable to eat and drink. Often caused by bacteria in your mouth or by a virus, canker sores generally go away on their own within two weeks. Over-the-counter creams may provide relief.

Toothache

You’ve made a dentist appointment, and it can’t come soon enough. Meanwhile, it can help to rinse your mouth with warm water, floss to remove food caught between teeth, and take an over-the-counter pain reliever. If you notice swelling or pus around the tooth, or if you have a fever, that could be a sign that you have an abscess, a more serious problem. See your dentist as soon as possible. You may need antibiotics as well as other treatments.

Stained Teeth

Your teeth are like your laundry: The right approach will remove many stains. Foods, medications, tobacco, and trauma are some of the things that can discolor your teeth.  You have three options for whitening them. Your dentist can use a whitening agent and a special light. Or you can bleach them at home with a plastic tray and gel from your dentist or a store. The simplest choice, whitening toothpaste and whitening rinses, only remove surface stains.

Cavities

These little holes in your teeth are bad news. You get them when a sticky bacteria, called plaque, builds up on your teeth, slowly destroying the hard outer shell, called enamel. Adults can also have problems with tooth decay at the gum line and around the edges of earlier fillings. To prevent it, brush your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, limit snacks, floss daily, rinse with a fluoride mouthwash, and keep up with your dental appointments. Ask your dentist if you could benefit from a sealant.

Chipped Tooth

It’s the No. 1 type of dental injury. An accident can cause a chip. So can something much less dramatic, like chomping popcorn. Your dentist may recommend a crown if the chip is large or bonding with a strong resin material to replace the area that chipped. If the pulp is at risk, you may need a root canal followed by a veneer or crown.

Impacted Teeth

An adult tooth that doesn’t come in properly is “impacted.” It usually happens when a tooth is stuck against another tooth, bone, or soft tissue. If it  isn’t bothering you, a dentist may recommend leaving it alone.  But if it hurts or may cause problems later on, an oral surgeon can remove it.

How do you prevent cavities?

  • Avoid food with high sugar or starch content – food and drinks like soda, ice cream, cakes, candy cookies, etc. are very high in both starch and sugar.
  • Make sure to brush your teeth thoroughly – if you do consume these foods, brush your teeth after eating to prevent plaque buildup.
  • Rinse your mouth – if you can’t brush right then and there, rinse your mouth with clean water.
  • Drink more water – if you can stay away from other beverages that isn’t water, do so. Manufactured drinks have chemicals and loads of sugar that causes plaque.
  • Visit your dentist regularly – ask for tooth sealant options or fluoride gels

Here are the other symptoms of gum disease:

  • Bleeding gums – do your gums bleed when you floss or brush? That’s not supposed to always happen. This is an early sign of your gums weakening.
  • Bad breath – if you notice the bad breath despite maintaining a rigorous oral hygiene routine, consider gingivitis.
  • Swollen, red or tender gums – healthy gums are supposed to possess a pink color and tight around the base of your teeth. If you see swelling, redness or tenderness around the base where your teeth meets your gums, see a dentist right away.
  • Loose Teeth – loose teeth might be signs of severe periodontal disease already. Don’t take it lightly. Get it treated as soon as possible to lessen the risk of needing replacement.
  • Pus development – if you start noticing pus around the base of your teeth, this is a sign of a more serious infection that could easily spread to other parts of your mouth. Have it treated right away and your dentist might prescribe antibiotics.
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Reasons To See A Professional Mechanic Transmission Repair

Anything Auto

Transmission Flushes

These are my favorite. I see too many transmissions fail just because of simple neglect. You want to make sure you flush your fluid before it gets dirty, not when it is dirty! When its dirty is too late.

I suggest flushing or doing a drain and fill every 30k and doing the filter(if your vehicle has one) every 90k. Its the cheapest insurance you can do to keep your transmission working in good order.

This includes draining and filling the system twice with up to 2 gallons of transmission fluid. The next we have to offer is an actual transmission flush with the machine. This flushes 4 gallons of fluid. This service costs $134. Some vehicles will actual have a filter inside of the transmission pan that can be serviced

To replace this filter the cost would be around $200-250 though some cars can be more if its hard to get it. If you pan is also leaking this would actually fix that problem at the same time.

REPAIR SERVICES

service and repair all imported and domestic cars and trucks. Bring in your imported and domestic auto, SUV, or pickup today with complete confidence that your auto will be serviced or repaired correctly the first time. Don’t be worried about the factory warranty on your new car! We have the staff, skills, training, and equipment necessary to perform all required maintenance on your new car or truck while maintaining your warranty

Authorized Dealer

Give Your Vehicle a New Lease on Life. That big oil slick in your driveway or those strange noises from under your hood don’t have to mean you’ll be saddled with a new car payment soon

Cylinder Block

A cylinder block is the powerhouse for the motor vehicle. The solid cast car part houses the cylinders and their components (gaskets, valves, and seals) inside a lubricated and cooled crankcase. Since it is one of the most important parts of your car, the block is designed to be extremely strong and sturdy. Although strong and sturdy, the block is susceptible to failure resulting in a vehicle that won’t start.

Cylinder Head

A cylinder head is the closed end of a cylinder (located in a car’s engine block). It sits above the cylinder block, closing the top of the cylinder and forming the combustion chamber. The cylinder head coordinates airflow in and out of the engine. Since the cylinder head’s chief function is to seal the cylinders properly, insufficient compression results in the car being difficult to drive

Diesel

Although diesel engines don’t require tune-ups and tend to last longer than gasoline engines, they do require regular maintenance.

Transmission specialists on foreign and domestic vehicles

specialize in transmission repair on nearly every make, model and year of vehicle. Most people don’t understand the importance of working transmission in their vehicle. drive down the road and hear engine rev up and down, but don’t think about how much work transmission performs to get us from point A to point B.

Many people also think only automatic transmissions need to be replaced. It is true that automatic transmissions are more complex and work harder, but manual transmissions also experience issues from time to time.

Signals That Something May Be Amiss With Your Vehicle’s Transmission

Burning Fluid Odors

Transmission fluid that’s intensely hot takes on a noticeable odor reminiscent of burning rubber. Burnt transmission fluid usually suggests the presence of a leak making its way onto very hot engine components. Burnt transmission fluid odor can also suggest fluid that’s very dirty and needs changed like the oil in your engine.

Slipping Transmission Woes

Automatic transmission slipping can also point to the need for repair service. If you notice your vehicle skipping from first to third gear or second to forth gear, bring your vehicle in right away for us to diagnose and determine the problem.

Slow or Inconsistent Vehicle Engagement

If it takes your vehicle longer than usual to engage and begin accelerating down the road, your transmission may be responsible. Don’t ever assume sluggish engagement is normal

Neutral Sounds

If you’re concerned about your vehicle’s transmission, concentrate on your vehicle when it’s in neutral. If the transmission seems unnaturally loud, you could have an issue with the transmission oil pump or transmission oil filter.

ENGINE MAINTENANCE

Engine maintenance is vital to keep your car or truck operating at peak performance. It also impacts the longevity of your vehicle’s engine.

Check Engine Light

No one likes to see their car’s “Check Engine” light come on. The light could mean a costly problem, like a bad catalytic converter, or it could be something minor, like a loose gas cap

Diesel

Although diesel engines don’t require tune-ups and tend to last longer than gasoline engines, they do require regular maintenance. Typical maintenance tasks include:

Changing the oil & filter

Changing the air filter

Changing the fuel filter

Bleeding the fuel system

Draining the water separators

Refilling the urea injection system

Fuel Injection

Fuel injection is a system for admitting fuel into an engine. Since 1990, fuel injectors have completely replaced carburetors as the primary means of getting gasoline into the engine. A fuel injector atomizes the fuel by forcibly pumping it through a small nozzle (under high pressure). Failure of the fuel injection system means poor performance and ultimately destroys the engine.

Ignition

An ignition system is a system for igniting (using an electric spark) a mixture of fuel and air in a gasoline engine. A properly working ignition system means a properly starting engine and high performance from your car

Transmission Trouble Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

If you’re like most people, car trouble is high on your list of the things that give you headaches. Not only does car trouble put a damper on your day, and seriously slow things down, but it usually means you have to empty your pockets of all your cash.

While some issues, such as a flat tire, are a relatively easy fix, others aren’t so much. Take your vehicle’s transmission, for example. No matter if you drive an automatic or manual, they are usually the more complicated issues to fix.

Transmission 101

You probably have a vague idea as to what your transmission is, and you more than likely understand that when your vehicle has transmission issues, it means big trouble. However, most people’s knowledge stops there.

Automatic Transmissions

Automatic transmissions are the most common type, and most brand new cars have them. However, they are more complicated, and rely on a torque converter to engage the engine and gears.

The torque converter is a complicated system but, in short, it works like this: When the engine is spinning slowly, very little torque is used in the converter and, likewise, when the engine is quickly spinning, just about all of the engine’s torque is converted into the transmission. This explains why your vehicle may creep while idling or when in drive. That is the torque which is being applied to the shaft.

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Professional Loading And Unloading Services

Vehicle Loading And Unloading – What You Need To Know

Before you start loading you need to ensure the vehicle / trailer is on firm, level ground, the brakes are applied and there is sufficient room for you to access both sides of the vehicle with your forklift truck.   If the driver is present you should obtain the vehicle keys from him until you have completed loading.  If loading a vehicle from a stepped loading dock it is especially important to remove the keys from the ignition so that the driver cannot drive away before you have finished loading.   Some loading docks have various different methods to lock the trailer onto the dock to prevent the vehicle from pulling away and you should be aware of the safety procedures in place at your particular site.

The correct way to go about loading a flat bed lorry or trailer is to start at the head board.  Please note if this is a trailer, detached from the tractor unit, you need to think about how much weight you are putting onto the front as there is quite a long overhang from the legs of the trailer to the headboard and putting too much weight on the front of an unsupported trailer can cause it to tip up, especially if you are double stacking loads.  Ideally, the vehicle trailer will have a tractor unit attached to it or you could think about putting a stack of unladen pallets under the front of the trailer to give the trailer some more stability.  Using standard pallets pick up the pallets on the narrow face and put your first pallet with the wide face of the pallet up against the head board of the vehicle on one side.  Your second pallet will then go onto the other side exactly opposite the first pallet.  Continue loading alternating from one side to another and once you have the same amount of pallets behind the supporting legs of the trailer as there are in front of, you can then remove your stack of empty pallets from underneath the front of the trailer.  Continue loading alternating sides pallet by pallet until you have completed your load. You can normally get between 20 – 24 standard pallets on a 40 ft trailer.

Offloading a trailer will be the exact reverse of this so take off pallets alternating from side to side, starting at the back of the trailer but again be aware that you may need to support the front end of the trailer if there is no tractor unit attached.

Please note if you are loading a container lorry or trailer from within a stepped loading dock, you need to make sure that the front of the trailer is supported if there is no tractor unit attached before driving onto the bed of the trailer with your forklift truck plus load as the combined weight can very easily tip up an supported trailer.   It is really important to remove vehicle keys to prevent the driver pulling away before you have completed loading.

There must be safeguards against drivers accidentally driving away too early.

This does happen, and is extremely dangerous. Measures could include:

  • Traffic lights.
  • The use of vehicle or trailer restraints.
  • The person in charge of loading or unloading could keep hold of the vehicle keys or paperwork until it is safe for the vehicle to be moved.
  • These safeguards would be especially effective where there could be communication problems, for example where foreign drivers are involved.

How to Use a Forklift to Unload a Shipping Container

A shipping container may be parked on the ground and needs to have contents put in or taken out, but there is a lip between the ground and the floor of the container. To safely access the container with a forklift, you need a dock board. Dock boards are also used in between a loading dock and the trailer or container. They will have enough capacity to support the forklift and the cargo being moved.

Forklifts and the Hazards of Loading and Unloading

On almost every substantial construction project, forklifts are used to move materials and these workhorses require careful safety precautions – The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that in the United States, nearly 100 workers are killed and another 20,000 are seriously injured in forklift-related incidents each year. Loading and unloading materials is of particular concern although forklift overturns are the leading cause of fatalities involving forklifts; they represent about 25% of all forklift-related deaths.

Experts cite the following basic safety measures for loading/unloading:

  • Even on level ground, there is a risk of machine roll-over during loading or unloading. Make sure you are centered on the ramps and stay straight. Allow enough room to maneuver the trailer and machine, which is sometimes difficult on tightly compressed jobsites.
  • Use a spotter for guidance. Make sure the machine clears the ramps before turning. Keep people away from the sides of the machine during loading/unloading.
  • Check the trailer deck, clearances and stability. Review your lock-out/tag-out plan to be sure the machine is at “Zero Energy State” when stowed.
  • Use proper tie-down procedures. If using compression chain binders, use caution when opening the handle. The load may shift just enough to add tension to the chain and the handle may spring open. Use safety tie wires or switch to ratchet binders.
  • Secure Your Load

Safe Fork Use

The first and most important rule to follow with forklifts – don’t overload your equipment. You have to know the weight of what you are lifting or risk tip over. If you spill the load it will take you more time to clean it up than to split the load into two picks.

Many injuries to both the operator and co-workers occur because they were not familiar with the specific model and type of forklift. Take the time to walk around and look over the manual. Take the Opportunity to ask others who use that equipment, and practice a bit on the side in the open before jumping right in with a load.

Safe operating procedures depend on the specific type of lift. Not all forklifts work the same. Always perform a written Daily Equipment Inspection before using the machine.

Always remain a safe distance and keep away from the swing area of the forklift. If you are the operator count & know how many grounds men are working with you. Once you are ready to pick the load the OPERATOR is in charge of the work until the load is back on the ground or bed of a truck. Respect this rule.

Never stand on or under the forks of the lift. Never ride on the side of a lift. Never use a forklift to raise or lower people. Both the operator and the rider are subject to company discipline action for these infractions. Using forks on equipment or a forklift is not a game.

Always pay attention to horns and back-up alarms from all heavy equipment, including forklifts. If operating any heavy equipment, always use seatbelts 100% of the time. More often you will sustain more or greater injury from a tip over if not wearing a seatbelt.

LOAD SECUREMENT

Secure the load to the frame and not the forks. Make sure the forks are all the way under the pallet and load before lifting.

Use a spotter to ensure the load is stable and guide you into the rack or atop the truck. Adjust the forks to be a proper width for the item to be lifted; too narrow it can fall off & too wide it can fall through.

Always lift just a few inches to check everything is ok before proceeding. Secure the load with s strap if you have to travel with it or lift it very high up. Whenever a load is on its “Slow–As-You-Go”.

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Water Damage May Be Lurking Beneath Your Home Inspection

The Must-Read Guide to Prepare for Your Home Inspection As a Buyer

Chances are you just signed a contract, which means the lender, realtor and lawyers are probably already approaching you with their list of requests. You need to get your current home on the market, you probably have a busy job and a few kiddos at home, and life has officially taken a turn to Crazytown!

But just because things are busy doesn’t mean you should neglect your obligatory home inspection. Not only can not giving attention to your home inspection impact the sale, but the results could cost you well into your future if you’re not prepared. This must-read guide gives you all of the facts you need to have for scheduling your home inspection, with helpful tips on how you can make the most of this tedious step … even amidst the chaos of buying and selling!  

What will a home inspection cost me?

A quality home inspection will cost you, the homebuyer, about $250-$400 depending on the size of the home. As much as these unexpected expenses seem endless during the moving process, this is one expense you do not want to skip. Hiring a quality inspector can make such a significant difference to highlight the good, bad and potentially dangerous components of your new home. You want to make sure you hire an inspector who is licensed and knowledgeable … even if that costs a few extra bucks. This tiny investment can save you thousands of dollars (and a lot of heartache) in the long run.

How do I find a quality inspector?

So you know you want to invest in a quality inspector, but you’re not really sure where to find one. You’re not alone! The best place to look is your realtor. If you really trust your realtor, she probably has some recommendations. Usually, realtors come to their buyers’ inspections, so chances are they have met a lot of inspectors and have seen which ones are thorough and which ones aren’t.

How long will the inspection take?

The time for an inspection varies based on the size of the home you are purchasing and how thorough your inspector is. On average, we suggest allowing for at least two hours, but on the long end, it’s usually not any longer than three hours.

Easy Ways to Beat the Inspection

Whether you’re buying or selling a house, the buyer’s home inspection tends to be the white knuckle part of the transaction. Before the home inspection buyers don’t have much control over the process, except for hiring a good Realtor and inspector. However, sellers often have a slew of options to make the home inspection go smoother.

GFCI ELECTRICAL OUTLETS

Be sure that all electrical outlets that require GFCI protection actually have protection. This is a safety concern that is always pointed out in inspection reports. Locations that should have functional GFCI outlets include: all outlets serving kitchen counter tops, bathrooms and wet bars. In addition outlets that are outside and in the garage should be GFCI protected.

SMOKE DETECTORS

Another safety issue that is relatively inexpensive to fix is properly located and functional smoke detectors. According to International Residential Code smoke detectors are required in each sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms (usually an adjoining hallway), and on each additional story of the dwelling.

SEAL ROOF FASTENERS

Unsealed roof fasteners (nails or staples) on asphalt roofing can sound like a problem to a buyer. Sealing these fasteners is something that roofers have historically neglected to do when installing a roof. Solving this is amazingly easy and simple. All it requires is applying a dab of approved roofing sealant over the fasteners with a caulking gun

SEAL EXTERIOR

Spending about 1-2 hours walking around the exterior of your house with a tube of caulking can go a long way. Common areas that home inspectors point out as needing caulking include around windows, light fixtures, plumbing pipes and electrical panels.

things to look for in a home inspection

continue to receive complaints from readers about problems that they discover after closing their home purchase. Most complain about sellers who fail to disclose defects or home inspectors who fail to find them. The system is far from perfect. However, there are steps that buyers can take before and during a home inspection to protect their interests.

Check all electrical outlets to make sure that they work. Open windows, even in the winter, to make sure they are not stuck or painted shut.

Look under any area rug or bed and behind any picture to check for cracked tiles, stained carpets or walls. Lift anything on the kitchen counters to look for defects. Do any of the appliances show any rust? How old are they? If they are discontinued models, you will likely have to replace them if they break down because of the difficulty of finding replacement parts.

Start the dishwasher at the beginning of any home inspection. By the end, it should have gone through its entire cycle, without leaking. Put a thermometer inside the oven and turn it on to 350 degrees. After 10 minutes, check the temperature. Test stove burners.

Flush every toilet and see whether it stops running after it is filled. Check sinks, tubs and showers in the house. Is there proper water flow from each faucet and does everything drain properly?

Home Inspection Checklist For Buyers

The biggest question for home buyers is, or at least should be, what am I really buying? You can create your own home inspection checklist to help you with your shortlist of houses, though should be familiar with the basics of professional home inspections as well.

You should have a general idea of the condition of the property you are interested in buying before going on your home search. Are you looking for a fixer upper or a brand new model home complete with furnishings? Or are you willing to go with something in the middle, as long as the home only needs basic cosmetic upgrades?

When you first walk through a home you’ll be able to get a reasonably good idea of the overall condition. It is new, slightly outdated or begging for a historic renovation or teardown and rebuild?

The Need for a Home Inspection When Buying a Home

If you’ll be financing this home purchase with a mortgage loan, your lender will want to be protected with an appraisal, title search, insurances, and a mandatory professional home inspection. They want to know what they are really lending on and are getting as collateral, and what it is really worth

Even if you aren’t that picky or are fine taking a year to repair and renovate your new home, it is really important to know what you are getting into.

Why?

Discover flaws and urgent repairs

Identify items that may require building permits

Get peace of mind of what’s okay

Get an estimate to make needed repairs

Understand the true value of the property

Be alert to potential maintenance issues in the near future

Ways to Prepare Your House for Inspection Success

Congrats! You’ve received an offer on your home and agreed upon a sale price. The papers are signed, and the next step in the process is your home inspection. Chances are that a satisfactory report is the last major hurdle toward sale — so it’s important you put your best foot forward

I recently accompanied a home inspector on a 3-½ hour tour of a home we were considering purchasing, and these were some major points I picked up along the way. In general, it’s good to have intimate knowledge of your house’s nooks, crannies, and weak spots. The following items are things you should consider before the inspector visits your home, possibly bringing up major and minor issues that could cost you money off your sales price or worse — the deal itself.

Clear Access

Ensure access to critical areas of your house are clear. Think about your electrical box, furnace, hot water heater, and air conditioning units, attic door, and any other possible locked spaces. Also make it easier to access under sink plumbing work and back access, as well as any areas blocked off by storage, etc. If the inspector cannot gain access, he or she will be unable to include them in the report, raising questions for your buyers.

Banish Clogs

Go through your entire house to all the sinks drains — one by one — and run the water. If you notice a slow drain, you can try using store-bought clog removers (consult with staff to find the right one). For very slow or even totally clogged drains, call in a plumber. Same goes with any slow flow or blockage at the water source.

Replace Bulbs

Examine your attached light fixtures. Make sure all the light bulbs are working. Inspectors only get an overhead view and cannot determine if the bulb itself is out or if there’s possibly an underlying electrical problem.

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Criminal Charges Require The Services Of A Criminal Defense Attorney

Former Prosecutors & Top Rated NJ Criminal Lawyers With Qualifications That Count

The first step to understand your charge or charges starts by receiving free advice from a highly accomplished criminal defense lawyer like those.  Don’t put your future in the hands of a lawyer who talks a big game but has little experience inside an actual courtroom. When life hiccups, you need a team of Defense Attorneys who are highly experienced and aggressive in defending offenses like yours, including drug possession, drug distribution, theft, DUI, and other criminal charges.

As former prosecutors and public defenders from cities and counties across the state, our attorneys know what you are up against. We will explore all your options, not just push you to take a plea deal, but fight hard for a full dismissal. We understand the emotional impact going through a criminal case is difficult on you and your family, and we are known as the Criminal Justice Attorneys because we care about your rights and ability to move on from this difficult time. Not only do we offer Free Advice, but we also are familiar with the local New Jersey Courts & Prosecutors, giving us unique insight as to the best approach to secure a dismissal, acquittal or favorable plea bargain.

It’s understandable to feel a sense of panic when you’ve been arrested and accused of a crime. But an arrest doesn’t mean the prosecution has a strong case.

Difference between being a DA versus a Defense Attorney

The Criminal Justice System is a balance between sides- the prosecution and the defense. Here’s a look from someone who has seen both sides first hand

Q: WHY BECOME A CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYER AFTER BEING A DISTRICT ATTORNEY?

A: I made the decision to come and be a defense attorney for a number of reasons. One of which was, as a district attorney, I saw so many people who I couldn’t help the way that I wanted to help them. What I mean is that often times, the district attorneys, while they’re very good attorneys, and they’re trained to do their jobs, they’re also trained to see people who come in as criminal defendants rather than seeing them as people. What I really like about being a criminal defense lawyer, is that my job is to get to know my client as a person and as a human being, and then convey that person that I know to the justice system – to the judge, to the district attorney – and let them know, “Hey, this is just a normal person who had a bad day. This is just someone who screwed up one time, but it doesn’t mean that they are a screw up.” A lot of what I do is I make people more approachable for the criminal justice system. When you’re a district attorney, you have a lot of cases, you have very little time to work on things. But as a defense attorney, I actually am able to sit down, and talk with my clients. I talk with my clients direct, I work with you. And a lot of my clients and I are friends long after I represent them.

Q: HOW ARE YOU DIFFERENT IN YOUR APPROACH FROM OTHER DEFENSE ATTORNEYS?

A: I think one thing that sets me apart from other defense attorneys here in town is that I do have that background as a district attorney. Specifically, I have a background here in El Paso county, and just like I view my clients as people, I view the district attorney as people too. I believe that everyone just needs to get to the point where you can connect with each other on a human level. What I like to do, is I like to take the fear out of things. I like to take the fear out of what the DA is trying to put my clients through. I like to take the fear out of what my clients are going through, and just lay it out for them. My job is really to act as a mediator between the criminal justice system and you – my client. It’s to help you get through your case, to make sure that you’re getting everything done that you need to, but also that you’re able to relax and breathe, and be the normal person that you are. I think one of the things that’s important for a district attorney to see is that you are a person, and you’re a normal person who just made a mistake.

Q: HOW DO YOU CONNECT ON A PERSONAL LEVEL WITH YOUR CLIENTS?

A: While it’s never a good thing to be in a position where you do need help, that’s what we’re here for. Our job is to get to know you, to connect with you, and get you through this time. One other thing that I absolutely love about my firm, is that we’re real people just like you. We’ve all been in a similar situation of some kind. Honestly, I personally have done more stupid things than I care to admit, but that’s what makes this whole firm work. We don’t judge you. We will sit down, treat you like a human being, and it’s not going to be a stuffy situation. You come in, you sit down in our office, and you just talk to me. I like to make it as relaxed as possible, because ultimately, while our job is to help you through this time, and to be your attorney, we’re also here to just be your friend, and help you through it.

How to Become a Criminal Lawyer

Have iconic fictional criminal barristers persuaded you to follow a career in criminal law? If you’re studying or considering specialising in this field, you can take the knowledge gained from TV series and films and compare it to how crime is dealt with in real life.

What is Criminal Law?

Criminal law aims to deter and punish conduct which is perceived as threatening, harmful or endangering to the public, its property or moral welfare

When government leaders take steps to ban certain actions relating to the above, they create crime legislation. Such legislation forbids behaviour including murder, sexual assault, property damage, theft and motor offences. Criminal law also includes international relations and extradition, money laundering and terrorism.

The Criminal Justice system acts with dual focus. On one hand, criminal laws are used to control society’s actions. But in addition, they are in place to help citizens understand the effects of their actions. This is because criminal law also includes the punishment and rehabilitation of people who violate criminal laws.

How to Become a Criminal Lawyer

To be a criminal lawyer, it’s important for you to be able to thrive under pressure while working on fast-paced cases. Because of the nature of criminal law, you must enjoy a challenge and be able to think on your feet.

Things to Know About Hiring a Criminal Defense Lawyer or a DUI Attorney

You should hire a lawyer you feel comfortable talking with.  Our ability to obtain the result you seek depends on many things, but one of the most important is communication.  If you do not feel that you can openly communicate with us, then it will be much more difficult for us to effectively help you.  We need you to communicate with us about your case: the good, the bad, and the ugly.  We need for you to communicate with us about what resolution you want to seek for your case.  We need you to communicate with us about how potential resolutions might affect your employment, education, or home life.  We need you to communicate with us if you believe there is evidence that will help you but that the State has not gathered.  No one knows your case better than you—and we cannot begin to know your case as well as you do unless you tell us everything you know about your case.

We work for the client and not for the person who may be paying the bills.  This is an important point.  We understand that our clients often have family members and friends who help pay their legal fees.  However, it is important for those family members and friends to understand that it is ultimately the client who we are working for, and thus our client calls the shots with regard to how his or her case gets resolved.

We do not work for “the State.”  It is true that any good criminal defense attorney will have a good working relationship with the local prosecutors in their area.  Having that working relationship is often instrumental in obtaining timely, favorable results for our clients.  But we are working for you (our client) and for you alone.  If, after we review your case and discuss it with you, you wish us to try to reach a plea agreement with the prosecution, we will seek to do so.  If you wish instead to fight the case by every legitimate means available, we will do that.

communications are confidential and privileged.  Unless you waive your right to have our communications be in confidence, we cannot disclose anything you tell us about your case to anyone else.

We are always on your side.  But always being your side does not mean that we can always give you good news.  If we are telling you something that is hard to hear about your case, it is not because we do not believe in you or your case; it is because we have an obligation to you to make sure that you understand how your case may play out in court, so that you can make an informed decision about how to proceed.  We do not like delivering bad news any more than our clients like hearing it, but it is sometimes a practical reality of our job.

Life Story Resulting in a Criminal Defense Career

decision to become a criminal defense attorney was shaped by unique and personal hardship. His life has been and remains a testament to the pursuit of justice for those subjected to overzealous law enforcement. He firmly believes in the dignified respectful treatment of every person before the law. In his late teens, Brian was a victim of police brutality. This experience was the catalyst in his goal to defend the rights of others.

has represented all walks of life; students, white and blue collar prefessionals, professional athletes, celebrities, police officers, FBI agents and even other criminal defense attorneys. Regardless of your background, profession or status, all of our clients receive the highest level of attention. We understand the stress and anxiety you are feeling from your criminal charge and when faced with a criminal law matter, you need an advocate in your corner who is going to protect you and your best interestes with no question.

National Police Accountability

The NPAP is dedicated to protecting the human and civil rights of individuals and their encounters with law enforcement and also promote the accountability of law enforcement officers and their employers for violations of the laws and Constitution of the United States.

American Association for Justice

The mission of the American Association for Justice is to promote a fair and effective justice system and to support the work of attorneys in their efforts to ensure that any person who is injured by the misconduct or negligence of others obtain justice in America’s court rooms.

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Factors That Influence Your Roof Repair Estimate

TIPS YOU CAN USE TO KEEP YOUR ROOF & GUTTERS IN TOP SHAPE

A roof is a crucial part of any home. But it’s probably not something you give much thought to. However, over time your home will eventually need a roof repair. But how are you supposed to know when? Sometimes that signs are obvious. Other times, not so much.

Missing, Cracked or Curled Shingles

This is one of your more obvious signs that a roof repair may be necessary. If you look up at your roof and notice that there are a few shingles missing or damaged, you may have an aged roof that needs repair.

You Notice Light Entering from the Outside in Your Attic

If you’re able to easily access your roof, check it out during the day. If you notice that light is entering from the roof, water can also enter through those same openings. It’s a good idea to have roofing contractor determine if your roof may need a patch or repair.

Your Roof Leaks When it Rains

Probably the most evident sign of needing a roof repair is when you experience a leak when it rains. It’s likely water is entering through an opening on your roof and then making its way into your home.

You Notice Shingles that are Wet or Appear Dirty

A less than apparent sign of a needed roof repair is wet shingles. If you see this, that means that moisture is being trapped, which is not supposed to happen. Any lingering moisture on your roof is not a good thing because it can eventually lead to things like mold and water damage.

THINGS YOU DON’T WANT TO HEAR FROM YOUR ROOFER

It’s always a good idea to call a roofer as soon as you notice any issues with your roofing system. Whether it’s a small leak or missing shingles, you should never underestimate the damage that seemingly minor problems could cause your roof system over time if left unaddressed.

It’s important to act quickly and address any issues as soon as possible. Of course, the first step to fixing your roof is finding a reliable roofing company. To be sure you’re dealing with a reliable contractor, you should talk to them and ask plenty of questions about their work and your particular roofing system.

Many roofers claim to be experts. And while the industry has no scarcity of trustworthy roofing professionals, there are unfortunately those that are less reliable.

“I’m Not Familiar With Your Type of Roof, But I’ll Fix It”

It’s not uncommon for people to assume that any roofer can work on any type of roof. Unfortunately, this is far from true. Different roofs are made of different materials and components, each of which require specific repair methods, skills and tools. A roofer who specializes in asphalt shingles may not have the know-how to reliably repair a metal roof.

If your roofing contractor doesn’t have the expertise for your type of roof but they offer to repair it anyway, you should decline their service and look for a professional that has training and experience working on your specific type of roof. “I Only Need Half an Hour to Inspect Your Roof”

What Do You Do if Your Roof Springs a Leak?

STOP THE WATER DAMAGE

Once you discover an active leak in your roof, the first thing to do is minimize the water damage as much as possible. To do this, you should move or put plastic covering over anything that can be damaged by water. This includes: furniture, electronics and other valuables.

CONTAIN THE WATER

Immediately put a bucket or other waterproof container beneath the leak(s) to catch the water. If water splashes onto the floor, put an old T-shirt in the bottom of the bucket to absorb the splash, or try pinning a long string to the ceiling near the leak, so the water will have a path into the bucket. If the paint is bubbling, it’s likely holding water, so puncture the bubble to release the water into your bucket.

REMOVE THE WATER

Once you have the leak under control, you need to thoroughly dry all carpet, furniture, woodwork and anything else that was exposed to water. Not only will water leave a stain, but mostly, you must prevent mold from growing in your home. If your carpet is soaked, pull it away from the padding and expose both sides of the rug and the pad to briskly circulating air. If the damage is extensive, call a professional water extraction company.

CALL YOUR INSURANCE AGENT

If you know (or even suspect) that your home has sustained heavy damage, call your insurance agent. Although your policy may not cover damage from a leaky roof, contact your insurance agent as soon as possible and let them determine what is and isn’t covered.

FIX THAT LEAKY ROOF

Once you’ve done all you can to get the situation under control and minimize the damage in your home, it’s time to get your roof fixed. To be sure it’s fixed right the first time and never returns, you should call a licensed roofing contractor.

THINGS YOU SHOULD EXPECT DURING ROOF REPLACEMENT

Roof replacement is one of the least inconvenient home improvements there is. On average, removal the old roof and installation of new asphalt shingles could take only a week, which is fast for a major project. That said, you should still set your expectations to experience less stress from start to finish.

Roofer Validation

Much like in roof repair jobs, a replacement project requires that you hire the right contractor. Every contractor would put their best foot forward, but don’t take their word for it. Review BBB ratings and Google reviews to ensure every claim your prospective roofer makes is correct.

Estimate

The estimate is the shortened version of the contract. There’s no universal format for estimates, and they vary among contractors. Generally, your estimate should at least spell out the cost of labor, materials and necessary permits.

Permit Application

There’s a great chance that your local government would require you to pull a permit to get the green light to proceed with a roof replacement. The application may take some time to process, so consider it when scheduling your project.

Disruption

Even the most organized and efficient roofers can’t keep your roofing project from becoming messy and loud to some extent. Unless nobody is at home during construction, consider setting up temporary accommodations until the work is done.

things to know about a slate roof installation

“We ran across roofing contractors who did not have much experience in slate roofs,” Messick said. Worried that she would end up with a shoddy job, she delved in and did her own research. “There was a lot to learn and finding the right resources was key.”

One of those resources was Joseph Jenkins, a slate roofing consultant and author of “The Slate Roof Bible.” Jenkins warns the worst thing uninformed roofers do is tell homeowners their slate roof needs replacing when it really doesn’t.

“The main thing people need to understand is that a slate roof can literally last for centuries,” Jenkins said. “I’m annoyed that a roofing contractor would destroy somebody’s roof and it’s regretful that the property owners don’t know what they lost.”

A slate roof can cost from $12 to $40 per square foot, according to websites and roofers I consulted. Your price will be on the lower end if you use recycled slates or reinstall your own. The price will rise if your house is complicated, your slate is extra fancy or you live in an expensive area. That’s two to four times more than an asphalt-shingle roof. Then again, a slate roof can also last four or more times as long, making it a good value over the long haul. But for a slate roof to last, it must be installed correctly.

Where it comes from

It’s not enough to know the color and cost of slate you’re putting on your roof. It’s not even enough to know the name of the slate manufacturer. “The most important thing you need to know is where did it come out of the ground,” Jenkins said.