Pain Management For Shoulder Pain
What Are the Treatments for Chronic Pain?
The treatments for chronic pain are as diverse as the causes. From over-the-counter and prescription drugs to mind/body techniques to acupuncture, there are a lot of approaches. But when it comes to treating chronic pain, no single technique is guaranteed to produce complete pain relief. Relief may be found by using a combination of treatment options.
Types of Pain
Acute pain can last a moment; rarely does it become chronic pain. Chronic pain persists for long periods. It is resistant to most medical treatments and cause severe problems.
Pain Classifications
Even though the experience of pain varies from one person to the next, it is possible to categorize the different types of pain.
Chronic Pain
Learn about how chronic pain occurs, and why chronic pain sometimes lingers.
Nerve Pain
When nerve fibers get damaged, the result can be chronic pain. Read about the very common causes of neuropathic pain, like diabetes.
Psychogenic Pain
Depression, anxiety, and other emotional problems can cause pain — or make existing pain worse.
Musculoskeletal Pain
Musculoskeletal pain is pain that affects the muscles, ligaments and tendons, and bones. Learn about the causes, symptoms, and treatments.
Chronic Muscle Pain
Use your muscles incorrectly, too much, too little — and you’ve got muscle pain. Learn the subtle differences of muscle injuries and pain.
Abdominal Pain
Learn common causes of abdominal pain and when to contact your doctor.
Joint Pain
See the causes of joint pain and how to treat it with both home remedies and prescribed medication.
Central Pain Syndrome
A stroke, multiple sclerosis, or spinal cord injuries can result in chronic pain and burning syndromes from damage to brain regions. Read this brief overview.
Chronic pain: Medication decisions
Chronic pain: Medication decisions
Chronic pain can limit your quality of life and lead to additional, serious health problems. Finding effective treatment is important — as is balancing pain relief with your safety.
Chronic pain is a serious health condition. Like any long-term health problem, the condition often leads to complications beyond your physical symptoms, such as new or worsened depression, anxiety and difficulty sleeping. Chronic pain can make it more difficult to keep up at work, manage tasks at home and attend social gatherings, leading to problems in your relationships and financial instability. Some research suggests that the more severe your pain, the more serious these problems.
Working in partnership with your doctor, however, you can identify treatments that allow you to live an enjoyable, fulfilling life. The approach you choose should include more than just medication, but painkillers are likely to play a role. Learn about the risks and benefits of common pain medications so that you can make safe choices as you seek your solution.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
NSAIDs are most effective for mild to moderate pain that’s accompanied by swelling and inflammation. These drugs are commonly used for arthritis and pain resulting from muscle sprains, strains, back and neck injuries, or menstrual cramps.
- Generic (brand) names. Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others); naproxen sodium (Aleve); others
- How they work. NSAIDs work by inhibiting certain enzymes in your body, called cyclooxygenase, that are released during tissue damage. By blocking the different types of cyclooxygenase (COX) — including COX-1 and COX-2 — NSAIDs can help reduce pain and inflammation that result from an injury.
- Benefits and risks. When taken as directed, NSAIDs are generally safe. But if you take more than the recommended dosage — and sometimes even just the recommended dosage — NSAIDs may cause nausea, stomach pain, stomach bleeding or ulcers. Large doses of NSAIDs can also lead to kidney problems, fluid retention and high blood pressure. Risk of these conditions increases with age and in the presence of other health problems, including diabetes, a history of stomach ulcers or reflux, and kidney disease.
- Bottom line. If you regularly take NSAIDs, talk to your doctor so that he or she can monitor you for possible side effects. Bear in mind that NSAIDs also have a ceiling effect — a limit as to how much pain they can control. This means that beyond a certain dosage, they don’t provide additional benefit. Exceeding the recommended dose may not relieve your pain and may increase your risk of serious side effects.
Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen is usually recommended as a first line treatment for mild to moderate pain, such as from a skin injury, headache or musculoskeletal condition. Acetaminophen is often prescribed to help manage osteoarthritis and back pain. It may also be combined with opioids to reduce the amount of opioid needed.
- Brand names. Acetaminophen (Tylenol, others)
- How it works. Doctors don’t know exactly how acetaminophen works. Some scientists believe there may be a third type of cyclooxygenase, COX-3, that acetaminophen blocks. Acetaminophen doesn’t affect the other two cyclooxygenase enzymes, and it doesn’t target inflammation — only pain. It may be less effective than NSAIDs.
- Benefits and risks. Acetaminophen is generally considered safer than other nonopioid pain relievers because it doesn’t cause side effects such as stomach pain and bleeding. However, taking more than the recommended dose — or taking acetaminophen with alcohol — increases your risk of kidney damage and liver failure over time.
- Bottom line. Acetaminophen is generally a safe option to try first for many types of pain, including chronic pain. Ask your doctor for guidance about other medications to avoid while taking acetaminophen. Acetaminophen is not as effective as NSAIDs for the treatment of knee and hip pain related to osteoarthritis.
COX-2 inhibitors
These medications were developed with the aim of reducing common side effects associated with traditional NSAIDs. COX-2 inhibitors are commonly used for arthritis and pain resulting from muscle sprains, strains, back and neck injuries, or menstrual cramps. They are as effective as NSAIDs and may be the right choice if you need long-term pain control without increased risk of stomach damage.
- Brand names. Celecoxib (Celebrex)
- How they work. COX-2 inhibitors, another type of NSAID, work slightly differently from traditional NSAIDs. A COX-2 inhibitor blocks only the COX-2 enzyme — the one that’s more likely to cause pain and inflammation.
- Benefits and risks. COX-1 enzymes help protect the lining of your stomach. NSAIDs, which block COX-1, can cause side effects such as stomach pain and bleeding. COX-2 inhibitors, on the other hand, help keep the stomach protected by acting only on COX-2 enzymes, allowing COX-1 to function normally.
- Although the risk of stomach bleeding is generally lower if you take a COX-2 inhibitor instead of an NSAID, bleeding can still occur, especially at higher doses. These medications may cause side effects, such as headache and dizziness, and can lead to kidney problems, fluid retention and high blood pressure.
- Bottom line. Older adults may be at higher risk of common COX-2 side effects compared with younger adults. If these medications help you manage chronic pain, aim to take the lowest effective dose for the shortest time possible, and follow up closely with your doctor.
What Are Corticosteroids?
Prescription corticosteroids provide relief for inflamed areas of the body by easing swelling, redness, itching and allergic reactions. Corticosteroids can be used to treat allergies, asthma and arthritis. When used to control pain, they are generally given in the form of pills or injections that target a certain joint. Examples include: prednisone, prednisolone, and methylprednisolone.
Prescription corticosteroids are strong medicines and may have serious side effects, including:
- Weight gain and salt retention
- Peptic ulcer disease
- Mood changes
- Trouble sleeping
- Weakened immune system
- Thinning of the bones and skin
- High sugar levels
To minimize these potential side effects, corticosteroids are prescribed in the lowest dose possible for as short of a length of time as needed to relieve the pain.
The impact of chronic pain
Chronic pain can have an enormous impact on people. It may interfere with a person’s sleep patterns, their sexual activity, their ability to work and conduct daily activities, and it can cause emotional distress and lead to serious mental health problems, including depression.
The goals of pain treatment are to enhance functioning and reduce suffering and distress, while minimising the risk of adverse effects. While it is rare to eliminate chronic pain completely, it should be possible to control pain to a tolerable level and allow people to function at an acceptable level.
While acute pain can usually be attributed to an identifiable disease or damage process, finding an identifiable process for chronic pain can be very difficult. Sometimes the cause of the pain cannot be determined. This does not make the pain any less real to the patient.
Outdoor Electrical Lighting For Parties And Holidays
Brighten up blindspots.
Pathway Lighting
Light every step you take. Pathlights are perfect for driveways, walkways and gardens while Steplights illuminate decks and stairs.
Outdoor Mounted Lighting
Shine a light from up high with mounted lights. Illuminate large areas like the driveway and backyard with Floodlights for security and safety. Or focus on a single area like a porch or shed with Spotlights.
Smart LED Lightbulbs
Enjoy the flexibility of energy-efficient smart LED bulbs. Simply screw into compatible lamp sockets for smart control from anywhere.
Hardwired lights give you nonstop power around the clock. Battery-operated lights can be placed almost anywhere. And solar lights offer added convenience.
Connected Devices
Connect to select Ring devices to see what’s happening from a single dashboard and control them with one simple app.
HOME IMPROVEMENT: REPLACING OUTDOOR LIGHT FIXTURES
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve wanted to learn how to re-wire something electrical. Like, a light fixture, a fan, an outlet. But I’ve been a little chicken because my mind always goes directly to imagining a billion watts of current, shocking my body….leaving me lifeless on the ground. I’m not kidding. I’ve been a little wimpy to do anything electrical because it sorta freaks me out.
Maybe you’ve done this before and it seems pretty simple. But I always thought we should hire an electrician for such jobs.
I’m going to show you the process of replacing our back porch light……because it was smaller and easier to manipulate while taking pictures.
First of all, start unscrewing/untwisting/un-clipping your old light fixture. Everyone’s is a little different…..so do what you need to, to remove yours from its mount
Now, you should see some plastic caps covering your wire ends. There should be black wires, white wires, and some copper colored ground wires. (Again, yours may be a little different……but black and white seem to be pretty standard. But the ground wire could be another color.) Unscrew them right off and then untwist the wire ends.
How to Design Your Landscape Lighting
Landscape lighting is the ideal way to add drama, beauty and allure to your home exterior at night
Form Ideas for Your Landscape Layout
Walk the landscape during the day and night to select key focal points: A stoic oak tree, a tall, handsome palm, a majestic group of juniper shrubs. Or hardscape feature a stone wall accented with fine travertine capstones, a carefully crafted facade, or even water features. These are all great examples to give you an idea of what to look for when it comes to focal areas of your landscape. These are the main visual features, and the first level of light in the landscape. Once the key focal points are defined, lighting can then be selected for other areas of the landscape, such as pathways leading through a garden, deck areas, porches and driveways.
Make a Sketch of the Landscape
Next, it’s time to sketch a drawing of the landscape. Begin the sketch by drawing a perimeter, adding buildings, decks, benches, trees, shrubs, vegetation, and decorations of any significance in the garden. Highlight all of the key focal points defined in Step 1, along with the approximate height and length of those objects. Draw in any existing landscape lighting. This will help you choose between a 120V or 12V landscape lighting system in the next steps.
Select Your Landscape Lighting Fixtures
It’s important to select the right fixtures for each designated area of your application. There are two key questions to answer here: Do I have an existing landscape lighting system? and How large is my layout?
Accent, flood and in-ground landscape fixtures by WAC Lighting can be controlled for color, beam width and brightness levels–though more on this later.
WHAT LIGHT FITTINGS SHOULD WE INSTALL OUTDOORS WHEN IT RAINS AND IT’S WET?
It’s raining. This is not abnormal here in the UK, especially during this time of the year, but this changes everything. Less time spent outside, more time spent indoors, and if possible, minimise the trips through the rain. Take the bus, drive, or take the train, so that your day won’t be ruined by the rain. That is, unless you love rain and you’re a hardcore outdoors person, in which case go for it!
When it rains outside and we have a wet and humid weather we need to be extra careful with what kind of lighting we use outdoors. There’s such a thing as IP rating, the international protection rating, which says what kind of lights can be used outdoors (especially in this country!).
IP44 rated light fittings are good for wall ligthing (especially if they are covered by a roof extention or something), but it is best for a light fitting to be IP65 rated, that is, to be waterproof and sealed for any dust and water particles.
Waterproof Wall Lights for Outdoor Lighting
There is a wide range of wall lights, but not all can be used outdoors; it is recommended to install a wall fitting that is at least IP44 rated so that water would not reach the electricals, or even an IP65 or IP67 waterproof fitting (to be more secure).
Also, depending on where do you want to mount the light fitting – whether by the entrance of the house, the side wall of the house, behind the house, on the garden wall, etc – there are all kinds of fittings that are suitable.
HOW I CONVERTED AN INDOOR PENDANT LIGHT FOR OUTDOOR USE
When I began planning the decorations for our patio renovation, I knew I wanted a pair of outdoor pendant lights hanging over our new dining table. But I couldn’t find any outdoor lights that spoke to me. I checked out hardwired lights, plug-in lights, and solar powered lights. I just didn’t love what I saw. Finally, I happened upon the perfect light for my space—a basket-style pendant with a gray wash wicker material.
I was very motivated to make a pair of these basket-style pendant lights work in my outdoor area. So after a bit of sleuthing I had everything I needed to make it suitable for outdoor use. Check out how I converted the light, and maybe you can do the same thing in your outdoor living space!
Supplies:
-Polyurethane (or Polycrylic if you’re spraying something white, as Polyurethane will slightly yellow)
–Weatherproof pendant light cord
–Staple gun or cup hooks
–Weatherproof extension cord (optional depending on your needs)
My light came with a pendant kit meant to be hardwired into the ceiling. It would have been much more economical to just buy pendant shades that I liked, but alas. The heart wants what it wants. I couldn’t use the light as it was, because it wasn’t rated for outdoor use. An exterior light needs to be weatherproof, considering all of the electrical components. Additionally, the materials used on the shade were not meant to withstand rain and sun, so they needed attention too.
Weatherproof your shade. If your shade is made of metal, it should be galvanized or else be powder coated to withstand moisture. Otherwise, it will rust. If it is fabric, you should waterproof it or it will mildew. My shade was made of metal and rattan (like a wood/reed material), so I needed to seal it with a decent coat of polyurethane to keep any moisture from soaking into it. I sprayed about four somewhat thick coats of polyurethane and allowed it to dry.
Residential Roofing Materials
Hiring a roofer
Know the risks
It’s important to protect yourself and your home before starting a home renovation
If you need to hire a roofer, knowing the risks will help you avoid things like scams, poor workmanship and legal liability for an injured worker. Protect yourself as a consumer – before work on the roof begins.
Research roofing contractors
Roofing contractors are not licensed by the government but, with a little research, you can find a reliable roofing contractor.
Start by:
asking friends and family for recommendations
considering local businesses only, so you can more easily check their references
Get a quote
Ask for a quote from at least three different contractors by a certain date. A quote is a written estimate that should include:
a clear and complete description of the work to be done
an itemized list of the cost for materials and labour
Qualities of A Good Residential Roofing Contractor
There are several residential tasks you can handle by yourself, but roofing projects should be entrusted to a professional. Working with an expert will help you secure the best roofing materials and get your project done on time. It’s equally essential, however, to choose the right contractor for the job.
Licensed and Insured
Licenses and insurance covers are the first things you should look for from a contractor. You should ensure that both documents are valid and up to date. This will help you avoid working with amateurs who can cause you more damages. A contractor who is insured guarantees that you won’t be liable for any potential injuries in their work line.
Certified
Besides licenses and insurance, it’s a good idea to look at your ideal roofer’s certifications. Certified contractors will carry higher top-notch roofing materials along with robust roofing warranties. This will guarantee you the best services in town.
Reputation
AK Enterprises Roofing recommends that you work with a local Barrie residential roofing contractor. This is because the local contractor will have a proven reputation within the community. Additionally, they’ll have an in-depth knowledge of the different roofing options and will be equipped to work on your unique roofing needs.
Residential Roofing
When it comes to managing your home’s roof, there’s typically three things you need to consider.
What repairs to keep an eye out for?
When should I replace it?
Who to hire to replace it or repair it?
All Roof Repairs are Not Equal
When it comes to roofing repairs, there are two types to concern yourself with. The first kind are repairs that alert you to a problem
The second kind of repairs are preventative, before a bigger problem like the aforementioned leak issue. If there is already a leak or other signs of damage, your best bet is to contact a roofing profession like
Time to Replace that Roof?
There are five good reasons to replace your roof. The first is if the repair costs are just getting out of hand. That is a simple one. Another reason is increased energy efficiency. If you can also improve your attics ventilation or take advantage of a radiant barrier at the same time, then investing in a new roof is truly an investment.
Sometimes you want to change the materials used for your roof to help better protect your family or gain higher resale value on your home. Both of those reasons are solid reasons for getting a new roof.
Secret Questions To Ask Roofing Contractors
If you’re looking to hire a roofing contractor (and if you’re anything like our friends and family), then I’m certain you want to do the job ONE time, right? Roofing isn’t a fun job to do twice because the process can quickly take up lots of your valuable time and hard-earned money
The high cost of replacing your roof the wrong way is very high (more on this in a second). It’s one of the most expensive home remodeling projects you’ll ever take on! So with this being true I’m sure we can agree that as a homeowner you need to do everything in your power to make sure you hire an experienced contractor the very first time you replace your roof.
Big bucks only a few years later. Especially because the figures above don’t factor in the 3%+ yearly increase in roof prices or the cost of real damages that lead you need a second roof in the first place
Again, the easiest way to avoid these headaches is to take time preparing for getting your first set of roofing estimates. Sounds simple, but it’s one of the key steps most homeowners miss. They’re more concerned about how much the roof will cost- the estimate itself- than they are about whether or not the roofer will install your roofing system using industry best practice and manufacturer guidelines. This includes not only ridge vent installation, but also materials like synthetic underlayment and more
The big mistake many homeowners make while getting roofing estimates…
Nowadays, it’s easy to get a roofing contractor to your house. All you have to do is plug your name into a website and you’ll watch dozens of contractors compete for your business.
How to Roof a House
Follow along as we shingle a house from underlayment to ridge cap. The article includes detailed photos, drawings and clearly written instructions for every step of the job.
Can you roof a house yourself?
Make no bones about it—roofing is hard work. There’s no hiding from the elements. You can’t be afraid of heights and you need to be pretty fit. Before committing to this how to roof a house project, try this: Get out a ladder and climb up onto your roof. If you can’t walk around on it comfortably, hire a pro. If you passed this first test, go to the lumberyard or home center and throw a bundle of shingles onto your shoulder. Imagine yourself carrying that load up a ladder…many, many times.
If you’re still feeling positive about this how to roof a house at this point, why not give it a shot? You can skip a lot of heavy lifting by having your roofing supplier hoist the shingles onto the roof. Be sure you spread the load evenly across the length of the roof’s peak. However, don’t have the shingles delivered to the roof if you have two layers of old shingles yet to tear off—it could be too much weight for your trusses.
Windblown heavy rain and/or snow can force water up and under even properly installed shingles. Even worse are ice dams (frozen water/snow that builds up on roof edges), which can wreak havoc by allowing water to seep up under lower shingles and then drip into your house. To guard against such seepage, apply self-adhesive waterproof underlayment (“ice barrier”), which adheres tightly to bare roof sheathing and seals around nails driven through it. Buy it at roofing supply companies or home centers. In severe climate regions, most building codes require applying it 3 to 6 ft. up from the eave (minimum of 2 ft. past the exterior wall). Call your building inspector for local details.
Cover the rest of the roof with No. 15 asphalt-saturated felt underlayment (some codes may require No. 30). Each layer overlaps the lower one by at least 2 in. Follow this step by nailing drip edge along rakes (sides of roof), on top of the underlayment. As you did with the flashing, always lap upper pieces over lower pieces. The felt keeps the roof deck dry before shingles go on, protects against wind-driven rain as shingles fail and increases fire resistance.
Make Significant Income By Specializing In Move In Cleaning
Offering Move In-Out Cleaning Services? Here Are Some Few Pointers
At some point, you can find men and women and firms that should be relocated. In cases like this, They could want their new area to be cleaned ahead of they shift in. Similarly, when an institution proprietor needs his previous locale to generally be cleaned and picked up after they moved out. Normally, institutions like apartments, homes and buildings are a few of The placement that sometimes seek out for cleaning services which referred to as as move out / move in cleansing provider. Thus, Should you have a cleansing corporation that gives different cleansing services, it can be your chance to make additional profits.
Mainly, a move out / go in cleaning assistance is needed when a particular tenant go out from An additional locale to a different. This is when a cleansing company will pick up the mess of a different or old constructing. Cleansing company of move in/out fluctuate relies on the scale of The situation. When you are novice in providing this kind of cleaning assistance, you may want to commence in smaller jobs. Generally, occupation dimensions vary in flooring dimensions in the establishment. For tiny sized job, get started presenting transfer out/in cleaning provider to apartments and homes.
In case you are Completely ready to offer transfer in/out cleaning solutions, you improved start out speaking to property administration companies. Currently being situated in residential or collage town is beneficial in your case as there’ll be no difficulty of work scarcity. If your company has become cleansing professional properties before, there’ll be without doubt that numerous shoppers will seek out to your expert services When they are needing go out/in cleansing expert services.
For a fantastic start out, it is better to cooperate with on-web-site good supervisor so that you will be in the position to estimate time you have to spend in cleaning your entire developing. When you as well as onsite assets manager have designed a fantastic rapport, as opposed to supplying approximated cost for cleansing support, you will just Enable your cleansing time billed. Your clientele will typically probably require specialized cleaning solutions like carpet cleaning, tile scrubbing and flooring sprucing. This is where you may demand them independently hence you might have additional earnings.
These ways will help you assure the satisfaction of your clients.
1. Determine precisely how big the cleaning team that the making needs. If the building has to have a small number of men and women to get cleansed just like small apartments or maybe buildings, 2 to 4 employees can be ideal.
2 . not Designate personnel that provides qualified skills when it comes to specific cleaning task so that the particular cleaning cases could be done faster plus much more practical. For an instance, an expert window cleaner must be assigned in cleaning house windows and glass panels.
3. The Cleaning team leader would be liable within getting and gathering all of the instruments and instruments used in cleaning this building before and after the cleanup process.
four. Before you start, check the utilities of the building. Of course , to clean the floors together with tiles, a person need water. To help make the cleaner working, you need electrical power. Thus, you need to be able to make sure that many of these aspects are presented before you start with often the cleaning job.
5. Begin your cleanup process by way of picking up almost all massive and heavy junk therefore that you can hoover the room as well as space without any hassle plus disturbances.
6. Vacuum home properly. This is highly important within move out/in cleaning providers. The idea is advisable to utilize a backpack hoover as it can the actual work faster and much easier. Remember to start hoovering from top to minimal together with baseboards, light accessories window blinds and windows. As a substitute of cleaning cabinets and drawer tops, better vacuum cleaner them to get Shorter and less difficult cleaning method
7. Get started cleaning this stuck grime and grimes in typically the wall and other surface types after you have done hoovering the family room. You may use chemicals and detergents in cleaning furniture, floors and walls. It is definitely better to work with concentrated compound instead of ready-to-use chemical type as you can save more money through.
7. For heavy staining plus dirt, spray targeted fumes. Just make sure the fact that the room is properly ventilated in order that they will stay away from breathing often the sprayed smells. Employees need to wear proper protective tools to steer clear of any suffocation or deep breathing problems.
9. Work with proper cleaning supplies just like papers towels, microfiber cloth or terry cloth rags.
For dust, use microfiber garment that is color environment friendly; colour blue for windows and various glass surfaces, crimson and yellow for restrooms in addition to countertops respectively.
12. For further easy sink and tiles scrubbing, use clean of various kind. Intended for floor tiles and ceramic surface types make use of grout brush. To get taps, it is wise to utilize toothbrush.
11. Finally, clean your floor. This is where all the filth and dust from the particular tops are inclined therefore employ a backpack machine to remove them all. Clean the many remaining stains plus grime using a textile with chemical substance.
Difference Between Dry Cleaning And Laundering
What is the difference between doing laundry and dry cleaning? Aren’t those two the same? Well, those two are not the same. They are two things that are being used interchangeably by most people. So how does these two differ?
Difference in Definition
Laundering is washing your clothes using soap, softener, detergent and water. It also involves drying the clothes and ironing them. Dry cleaning however is simply cleaning with the use of chemicals such as perchloroethylene to remove dirt from your clothes instead of using water and soap. Though they both use a special machine to do the job, you still can’t use a dry cleaning machine to do some laundering or vice versa.
Difference in Process:
In laundering you need to gather all clothes that have the same kind of material like cotton, leather, silk or linen. You can also classify them if they are colored clothes or just plain white ones. Why do you need to classify your clothes you ask? It’s because some materials need a different detergent or soap to be used. Some also have the tendency to lose their color and mix with the white colored ones which can be very unpleasant if you need those clothes in their original color.
The next thing you need to do is soak them in water for a couple of minutes then add some soap or detergent. You can use a machine to help in scrubbing of clothes or you can do them manually by hands. Once all clothes have been washed using soap, you need to wash it with water until you can no longer see some soap being washed away.
The last thing after washing the clothes is drying them. Again, you can either use a drying machine or just let it hang outside your house where the sun can dry them. That’s basically how laundering works.
In dry cleaning, you also need to classify your clothes based on the above mentioned categories. You will then use the machine-made for this process and use a chemical solvent to remove stains on your clothes.
Some shops that offer this kind of service even use pre-treatments to your clothes to make it easier for the solvent to remove the stains. The next process is drying the clothes using a warm air circulating in the machine while the clothes are being tossed around. After all of these processes are finished, the clothes then go for pressing and packaging.
How to Make Foaming Hand Soap
It’s so easy to make your own foaming hand soap. Walk through each step with us below!
Start With a Foaming Soap Dispenser
A foaming hand soap dispenser is a must, as these dispensers push air through the liquid soap to create that lovely foam. If you have an empty (or near-empty) bottle of foaming soap on-hand, you can reuse it. Just give it a quick rinse to get rid of any leftover soap scent—especially if you plan on using a new scent to create your own foaming soap.
If you don’t have a foaming dispenser on-hand, consider buying a glass foaming soap dispenser. You can find these online or at your local home goods store. The nice thing about a glass foaming soap dispenser is that these are heavier and more substantial, and they look nicer in your bathroom or kitchen. They’re also very environmentally friendly and are less likely to tip over when they get closer to being empty. Win-win!
You may also be able to reuse just the screw-top from an old foaming soap bottle on another container of your choice, as long as the screw-top fits.
Add Water and Liquid Soap
Once you have the right dispenser, it’s really just a matter of mixing the right proportions of water and soap. You can use any hand soap that you wish. Some people will even use dish soap to create their own foaming dishwashing soap for a more luxurious experience. Why not? If you prefer something that’s a little more moisturizing, you can even use a moisturizing body wash to create a foaming soap this way.
Begin by pouring a small amount of warm water into the bottom of your dispenser. It’s best to add the water first because if you add the soap first, you could end up with too much foaming inside the bottle. Not sure how much water to add? It really depends on how frothy you want your foam. Adding more water will result in less foam, whereas less water will create a thicker foam. We recommend trying about four parts water to one part soap, but it’s not an exact science.
After you’ve added your water, squeeze the preferred amount of soap into the bottle.
Gently Mix Until Incorporated
Time to mix! Avoid shaking the bottle to mix up the water and soap, as this will just result in lots of bubbles and foam inside the bottle (which isn’t what you want). Instead, try gently swishing the bottle back and forth until the water and soap are well incorporated.
Simple Things You Must Expect From A Professional Cleaning Company
Initially, it resembles you are over-thinking. In any case, on the off chance that you are only this cautious, you will be amazed how much time and cash you can really spare. Finding a genuinely proficient cleaning administration can be life getting updated, particularly when the administration is in your financial plan. It can assist you with being increasingly practical at different things throughout your life while not yielding your money. What’s more, it can build your certainty for your home appears as though what you anticipate that it should be. All things considered, your house is an impression of you.
#1. Permit
A first-rate cleaning administration will be authorized and protected. The organization should meet some normalized necessities related to their work, items, gear, method and cleaning results. For the most part, recruiting a group of prepared, experienced cleaners from such an organization doesn’t need to cost a great deal. The organization will charge sensible cleaning administrations costs and consistently give great incentive to the clients.
#2. Obligation and Employee Accident Coverage
Home mishaps can happen whenever regardless of how cautious the cleaners are. An expert organization ought to know about the wellbeing of their cleaners. Risk and representative mishap inclusion are one of the approaches to show their consideration.
#3. Polished methodology and reliability
An expert housekeeping organization has polished methodology and reliability. It is appeared by the way they get their clients’ calls, how they care about their clients’ fulfillments, how they react to any objections, and so forth.
#4. Training and Experience
An expert cleaning administration must instructor prepare their cleaners and maids so as to have adequate information in housekeeping. The organization likewise requires their cleaners a specific measure of understanding before dispatching them to their clients’ home.
#5. Profound Cleaning System
An expert housekeeping organization will assist you with making your home clean, clean and furthermore sound. The organization, in any event, puts the 3 fundamental strides to the cleaning procedure: planning, cleaning and wrapping up.
SUV Truck Tires Basics
TYRE TIPS
IMPROVE MILEAGE AND SAFETY.
The tyre is the sole point of contact between the vehicle and the road surface. It is crucial to the safety both of users and goods transported. For a given load and type of work, in clearly defined conditions, there is only one optimum cold tyre inflation pressure.
To ensure optimum safety, reliability and business efficiency it’s important to fit the correct tyre specification. If you follow our basic steps to tyre maintenance, your tyres can deliver maximum mileage potential, even wear and safety.
It’s a fact: smarter tyre management leads to better mileage potential and lower operating costs. Regular care will keep your tyres rolling longer. Good tyre pressure maintenance is vital.
To keep your tyres in top shape, look for these six common problems during routine inspection:
Under inflation
Over inflation
Twinned fitments with different cold inflation pressure
Twinned fitments with different tyre dimensions
Irregular wear pattern
Missing valve caps
TYRE INFLATION BASICS – WE CAN HANDLE THE PRESURE
Want to prolong the life of your tyres and improve the safety of your truck? Check your cold tyre inflation pressure every month, before setting out. Here’s some tips to help you get your tyre pressures just right. (Kpa stands for KiloPascal and PSI stands for Pounds per Square Inch) Another common unit for measuring tyre pressure is Bar, which equals 100 Kpa or approx. 14.5 PSI.
TAG ARCHIVES: HEAVY DUTY TRUCK TIRE
Tires have tendencies to make noise for a variety of reasons while a vehicle is in motion. Common causes for the noisy nuisance of loud tires may include improper inflation, tread wear, and balancing issues. The most effective and affordable solution to noisy tires is preventative service and routine maintenance. Some useful tips to avoid costly repairs down the road and rid your trip of loud tires are using balancing beads, checking for proper inflation, and inspecting tire tread wear
Tractor-trailers, RVs, light, medium, and heavy-duty trucks are often prone to noisy rides because of tire size and the weight of the vehicle. Tread patterns play an active role in the sound produced by the tire and since most equipment tires will vary in style and brand, diagnosing the cause of noises can be difficult. While in some circumstances this sound is attributed to the road condition, in others the problem lies deeper.
Balancing Beads are an affordable and simple solution to tire balancing and can help improve the noise and vibration on tires once installed. Balancing beads should be applied when new tires are being mounted as they will last the full lifetime of the tire. ESCO Balancing Beads can be installed within tires by method of convenient individually packaged bags or by scoop in loose form. Balancing beads also have an added benefit of improving fuel economy and reducing tire vibration, permitting a smoother ride.
Checking your tire pressure often will lengthen the life of your tires, provide the best gas mileage and assist in preventing additional noise. On September 1, 2007, the Tread Act was passed by United States Congress which mandated all light-motor vehicles (under 10,000 lbs) to have a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) technology. Controversially, no legislation exists for heavier vehicles including RVs, tractor-trailers, cargo vans or other medium and heavy-duty vehicles. To reduce noise from tires, check your tire pressure with an accurate dial or digital gauge before any long trip and while conducting other routine service or maintenance on your vehicle.
An excellent habit for drivers of heavier vehicles to develop is conducting routine visual inspections of tread wear on tires. When faced with unusual noise from tires, examining your tires’ tread could lead to a quick diagnosis of uneven wear or damage. Uneven tire tread is often the culprit for noisy tires and is typically linked to improper inflation or inaccurate wheel alignment. Should your vehicle’s tire noise not subside after proper inflation, it’s recommended you visit a local tire service specialist to check for other mechanical issues.
truck driving tips from experienced truckers
My first lessons included good practices to make your day go more smoothly. I didn’t get that information from a book, but from qualified trainers who took the time to cause me to think about the next step and develop good habits that would help me in my work.
Look back at your truck after parking.
I park my truck in a parking spot, get out of the truck and walk toward the operating center. I have been told numerous times what to do when I walk away from the truck and I think I know it by now. My trainer says to me, “Are you done?” I respond, “Yes!”
Be aware of your trailer 24/7.
If it leaves the road or goes outside of the line, you aren’t driving safely. That trailer is a weapon that could get you and others injured or killed. But the expression I learned when I was backing up very close to the trailer next to me was, “Drive that trailer or you are subject to failure!” I never forgot it. Thank you, Ken Booker!
Do a good pre-trip inspection.
You never know when you will be asked, “Did you do a pre-trip?” And if it’s a DOT officer, you want to know if you looked good at the inspection date, the lights, the tires, the pins, fifth wheel, lights and even the valve stem covers. I’m picky about them and keep plenty extra in my side pocket door.
When you see the spot you want, pay attention to the tire path.
Many times the truck that just pulled out will have a perfect path to back into. Aim your tire for that path. You will be surprised at how close you can get and how much you will improve your accuracy by paying attention to the path your wheels are taking. But don’t forget to G.O.A.L. (Get Out And Look)! That is some of the best advice truckers ever got! I heard it from all trainers, but more often from Joe Ward, retired, and my own husband, Joe Nader. Thanks to all!
CAR CARE TIPS
we want our customers to be in the know about how to properly care for their car or truck. We want you to understand why and how your tires wear; how to get the best gas mileage; and overall how to get the most out of your tires. Hopefully, with these helpful tips you will be able to improve gas mileage and reduce tire wear when driving
Car Maintenance and Care
Change your fluids on time, every time.
Change your oil every 3,000 miles for regular, 5,000 miles for synthetic oil
Change antifreeze fluid every 30,000 miles.
Change brake fluid every 30,000 miles.
Change transmission fluid every 30,000 miles.
Schedule a maintenance check every 15, 30, 60, and 90,000 miles.
Replace your air filter every 12 months or 12,000 miles (whichever comes first).
Replace your fuel filter every 2 years or 24,000 miles (whichever comes first)
Tire Maintenance and Care
Rotate your tires every 5,000 miles or every 6 months.
Check your tire pressures approximately once a week. Low tire pressures can affect fuel economy, handling and comfort. To accurately measure your tire pressure, check tires when they are cold. Wait at least three hours after driving.
Always make sure that your wheels are properly aligned. Badly aligned wheels will again lead to dragging of the car on the road.
Check your spare tire each month and keep it properly inflated so it¹s ready to go when you need it most.
Use the penny trick to determine if the tread on your tires is worn to low. Take a penny and put Abraham Lincoln’s head into one of the grooves of the tread. If part of his head is covered by the tread, you’re ok. If you can see all of his head, it’s time to replace the tire. When the tread is worn down to 1/16 of an inch, tires must be replaced.
Gas Mileage Tips
Check and/or change your air filter every 6 months to improve fuel economy and keep your engine running smoothly.
Don’t top off. Don’t bother topping off when filling your car’s gas tank. Any additional gas is just going to slop around or seep out.
Tighten up that gas cap. Gas will evaporate from your car’s gas tank if it has an escape. Loose, missing or damaged gas caps cause 147 million gallons of gas to evaporate each year.
Go for the shade. The hot summer sun that makes the inside of your car feel like a sauna also evaporates fuel from your gas tank.
Use the right oil. You can improve your car’s gas mileage by 1 percent to 2 percent by using the manufacturer’s recommended grade of motor oil.
And most important of all……
Always check for potential problems before they happen.
Tips For Light Truck Tire shoppers
Are you in the market for new rubber to replace your worn light truck tires? If so, there’s some critical information you should keep top of mind.
Foremost, remember that the ability to bear weight is the defining distinction when considering tires made for light trucks (LT). When conducting your tire research, keep your particular vehicle’s weight and the load you’re expecting it to carry – or haul – at the very forefront.
Michelin’s fitment guide reminds users: “Sizing for light truck tires takes the performance requirements of the vehicle, and the tires, into account.” Reading the sidewall markings of your tire is, therefore, a very good place to start. If the “LT” marking precedes the tire’s size markings (e.g. LT235/70R16), then you should be looking for a replacement tire that also bears this marking, rather than a P-Metric marking (e.g. P235/70R16). In the latter instance, P stands for passenger.
P-metric tires are installed on vehicles primarily used to carry passengers including cars, station wagons, sport utility vehicles and even light duty pickup trucks. Their load capacity is based on an engineering formula which takes into account their physical size (the volume of space for air inside the tire) and the amount of air pressure (how tightly the air molecules are compressed). All P-metric sizes are based on the formula for load. Euro metric and P-metric tires in the same size (i.e. P215/65R16 and 215/65R16) are equivalent in their dimensions with just slight differences in their load capacity calculations and inflation pressure tables.
Light truck tires, on the other hand, have evolved along with the expanded applications of trucks and vans that have grown to be multi-purpose vehicles, which consumers use for work, for recreation or as passenger vehicles.
What To Look For During Your Home Inspection
HOME INSPECTION TIPS FOR BUYERS
Today, I will talk about my top 8 home inspection tips for buyers. It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of buying a home. Once you’ve had an offer accepted on your dream home, you’ll probably be anxious to move in. However, before you make a significant financial commitment, it’s best to know exactly what you’re buying. So let’s explore it right now. By the way, watch till the end of the video, as I will provide you my FREE GIFT. My home inspection checklist for buyer pdf is now available for download. And I will give it to you for FREE. Also a disclaimer that I am not a licensed home inspector
This video is for informational and educational purposes only. Make sure to talk to your home inspector if you have any specific questions regarding your property. If you need a referral for home inspectors, comment below and I will share to you my preferred inspectors (take note that I do not receive any referral fees for referring the companies listed). So on to our topic. When you hire a home inspector, you get a professional, in-depth examination of the property’s structures and systems. It’s a worthwhile investment that can save you money in the long run, either by warning you away from a bad purchase or by providing a list of deficiencies you can use to negotiate with the sellers. The inspector’s report will also list minor repairs that, if made, will help to maintain your home over the long term. Additionally, a good inspector can often predict the standard life expectancy of your roof, HVAC, and other big-ticket items so you can start planning for their eventual replacement. However, many buyers make mistakes during the inspection process that cost them time and money and lead to unnecessary stress
Make sure to do your own visual inspection Many buyers rely on their home inspector to point out issues with the property. However, by conducting your own visual assessment before you submit an offer, you can factor expected expenses into the offer price. Or, if you suspect major problems, you may choose to move on to a different property altogether. Examine the walls and ceilings. Are there suspicious cracks, which could point to a foundation issue? Any discoloration? Yellow spots can indicate water damage, while black spots are typically mold. If there’s a basement, look for powdery white deposits along the walls and slab, which can result from water seepage
Do NOT Hire the Cheapest Inspector We all love to save money, but not all inspectors are created equal. Before you hire one, do a little research
Attending the Inspection Make every effort to be on-site during the inspection. Buyers who aren’t present during their inspection miss out on a great opportunity to gather valuable information about their new home. If you can attend the inspection, don’t spend all your time picking out paint colors or chatting with your new neighbors. Instead, use your time there to shadow the inspector. It’s the perfect chance to find out where everything is located, ask questions, and see first-hand what repairs and updates may be needed
QUICK TIPS TO GROW YOUR HOME INSPECTION BUSINESS
Home inspection marketing is one of the most significant factors in the success of a home inspection business. Unfortunately, it can also be one of the most complicated. Putting effort into marketing will help ensure that your home inspection business grows. It takes effort and knowhow
Marketing: A successful home inspector is a business owner who utilizes proven marketing tools and methods to promote the services they offer to potential clients and referral sources
Roadmap: Few people get to their desired destination without a plan. Make a business/home inspection marketing plan and stick to it! A good marketing plan is a document that brings together your market research. This helps you figure out exactly where your business needs to go and how it is going to get there.
Face-to-Face Marketing: Research shows that face to face marketing is one of the cheapest and most efficient ways to get your name out in the market. Face to face marketing is cost-effective for reaching large numbers of people in a short time. Any activity must grab the prospective client’s attention quickly, as the window for interaction is short. Grab their attention and try to maintain it long enough for them to engage in the message you are delivering. Continue getting out in front of people when money gets tight, as this is a low cost and effective way to market yourself. Opportunities are out there, you just need to find them.
Website Presence: A website is an essential and cost-effective way for potential clients to learn more about you and your company 24/7
Tips to survive after a home inspection
Helpful tips to survive after a home inspection, it’s what home inspectors do and don’t want you to know. A home inspection and helpful tips to help you survive after your home has been poked at from top to bottom. It’s the things you don’t see that may be destroying your home. There are a lot of home inspectors out there poking around homes to find potential damage issues around the exterior of a home. Did you know that the sharp metal objects that most home inspectors use such as an awl can cause damage below the surface of a quality exterior paint job? This pricking around the home and poking to locate areas of concern of your homes inspection may cause future damage to your homes exterior by causing a break in the protective paint barrier. Since water intrusion can absorb under the paint layer and cause future damage such as paint peeling, blistering, future wood rot, it can attract unwanted wood boring insects, not to mention those unsightly ants that love to colonize in moist places, and future decay of structural wood.
Home Inspection Tips for Sellers
Generally, the path leading up to the home inspection is longer for the seller than for a buyer! The seller prepares for the sale by decluttering, cleaning, maintaining, repairing, and staging their home. Anxiety for the seller typically grows during inspection day and when the inspection report arrives. Sellers ask themselves: “What might the inspector find? What did we overlook?” And sometimes it can even feel as though someone is intruding in their space, and judging everything about their house.
Recently, veteran real estate agents with 30+ years in the industry told me that home inspections used to simply involve a professional looking at the major appliances and systems like the furnace, HVAC and water heater.
There are many reasons that buyers invest in an inspection:
To ensure they are not buying a lemon.
To be informed about any potential additional costs they could incur after closing.
To find any issues that could potentially be a deal breaker if they are not addressed by the seller.
As soon as closing documents are signed, all of the home’s issues will the responsibility of the new owner. The contract clearly states that the home is being purchased “As is” and “With all faults.”
A buyer will have a certain amount of time that allows them to conduct pretty much any inspection they desire. A buyer will choose which inspections they deem necessary. The charges are also the buyer’s responsibility. As a matter of fact, home buyers can inspect anything they like unless it damages the home (in that case, permission has to be retrieved first).
tips for navigating the home inspection process
Selling a home can be a stressful experience for most homeowners. Keep Calm and focused on the big picture. When it comes to home inspections, most homeowners aren’t used to having a stranger peer into their attic, open every cupboard and closet or test every appliance. For some, this stress can turn into a major nightmare.
Prepare for the inevitable.
When the home inspector comes through and begins pointing out flaws, many homeowners take the comments personally. This is why it’s important to make sure that not only is your house is ready for inspection, but that you are, too.
Be proactive
Before the inspector arrives, talk with your agent about whether they plan to be in the house during the inspection. If the buyers will also be attending the inspection, the best thing for both parties is to keep the sellers away and occupied for the duration. Concerned that you won’t be able to answer questions or explain an issue with the home? Leave contact information at the house and have the buyers or inspector call with any pressing questions.
Keep Sane
When the time comes for the actual inspection process, take a minute to remind yourself that the home inspector is simply doing his or her job. Emphasizing this fact can help keep sellers grounded, even when the inspector comments on the improper installation of their favorite fixture. If you do start to get worked up about the inspection or a comment made by a potential buyer, try to redirect attention and remind them about why they’re selling their home in the first place. As much as possible, focus attention on the bigger picture and the end goal: getting the best return on their investment and finding a new home.
Start A Residential Cleaning Business
Steps to Choosing the Right Cleaning Products for your Home Cleaning Company
When you first start your housecleaning business, you only need a handful of chemicals and equipment. As your company grows, however, that arsenal must expand to include additional tools for a growing staff. No matter where you are in the process, having effective, efficient, and affordable products is critical for business success.
Start with the Supplier
From distributors who specialize in janitorial products to your local grocery store, there are a lot of places to purchase cleaning supplies. Which supplier is best for your cleaning business?
Retail: Everyone from the local grocery store to big-box national chains like and Target sell consumer-grade cleaning products. The advantage of using these vendors is they are convenient and picking up products is quick. Very often, this is where many housecleaning companies first purchase; it’s easy and works well for small orders. The downside is that this is typically the most expensive way of purchasing these products.
Wholesale Clubs: Shopping at also an option. These clubs cater to professionals and offer bulk quantities, concentrates, and refillable bottles—all of which appeal to cleaning companies. However, while they are a bit more affordable than retail stores, their prices aren’t the lowest option and product selection can vary and be suddenly unavailable.
Online and other online retailers offer all of the options you can find at brick-and-mortar stores, plus many more speciality items that aren’t readily available at Target and the like. Online pricing may be less, but shipping costs often offset any savings. Also, unless you’re buying from a well-recognized brand, you can run into problems with fine print, misrepresentation of product, or even reliability of delivery.
Tips To Choose Good Residential Cleaning
First of all, it’s important to take stock of the things you really want cleaned because not all cleaning services perform the same services. For example, some do your laundry, make the beds, wash the dishes, etc. – so it’s important to know what you need before you book and make sure that the company you hire does those tasks. Don’t assume anything. There’s nothing worse than coming home and expecting the laundry to be folded and realize it’s not done because it’s not part of their service contract with you.
Need a monthly cleaning, bi-weekly, or weekly cleaning? Or maybe just a one time clean for moving out? Take a really close look at how often you need house cleaning appointments. Maybe you can get away with bi-weekly cleanings instead of weekly? Just keep in mind that generally, the more frequent your appointments are, the cheaper it will be in terms of cost per visit
Asking friends, family and coworkers who have had hired a house cleaning service before for their recommendation can save you a lot of headaches because you can be relatively sure that if they had a good experience, you will too. That’s one of the main ways grew the way we did. A side benefit of going through a cleaning service that was recommended you is that in some cases, they’ll give a referral credit to you a credit to the person recommending you. It’s a win-win for both of you.
You know that jaw-dropping cleaning quote that’s $100 less than the others? Yes it sounds great and all but you’ll definitely want to double check to see if it’s a flat rate. Chances are that it’s not and that they’ve grossly under estimated the job. Which is how you could end up with a surprise $350 bill at the end when you thought you were getting it for about $170.
There are advantages and disadvantages to each and those differences lead to huge differences in terms of your experience. Everything from online customer support chat to scheduling, appointment reminders, and more, we use technology to create a better customer experience for you.
TIPS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING CLEANING SERVICES
Cleanliness is one of the most important things in our day to day life. This is mainly because in order to be healthy and strong for everyday chores we need to have a healthy lifestyle and being clean and neat is one of the necessities. With the busy lifestyle that people are leading lately, it is sometimes impossible to find time to do cleaning in the household or even the work place. This means that one should have an alternative on how to ensure that the place they are at is clean. Going for cleaning services is the best alternative when it comes to this.
It is however important to choose the best clean-up services owing to the fact that the cleaning companies are increasing with number on a regular basis. This requires one to have some factors in mind that they will use to choose the best one for the job. The first thing that one needs to consider is the reputation of the company. Ensure that the company is well reputable so as they can give you the kind of services that you desire.
The other factor to consider is the experience of the company. It is important to hire the services of a company who has been in the market for a long time because they have gained the required a mount of experience. This will ensure that they do a good job for you since they know too well the things that make the place they are cleaning as fresh and clean as required.
The other factor to consider is the equipments and detergents that the company is using. Considering the fact that there are a number of clean-up equipments available in the market, some work best for the job. Ensure that the company uses the detergents that you as a person desire so that they can give you the services that fit well for your needs.
Cost is yet another factor that needs to be considered when going for cleaning services. Ensure that the charges are considerably affordable and that they fit well with your budget. This will give you an opportunity to determine how many times in a month they can be cleaning for you so that your place can be clean regularly.
Key Qualities to Look for in House Cleaning Services
Great! You’ve decided to hire a cleaning service to help manage your home chores. How do you choose the right company? What are the red flags? You’ll probably spend hours researching options online and looking at the services close to you, but what should you look for in the best housekeeper?
Reliable References
A good quality house cleaning service will have references. Depending on how long they have been in business, they should have a history of quality service. Online reviews are a good place to start. There you can check ratings by reviewers. It is probably a good idea to call and get your references. Get an idea of what the company and its employees are like. The best house cleaning services will have these options ready for you
Flexible Schedules
You lead a busy life and you need your schedule worked around. That’s ok, and a good quality maid service will agree with you. Figure out what days work best. Depending on your household, it may be a good idea to determine how often you need cleaning. Do you have kids or teenagers? Maybe a weekly service if good for you. Is it just you and your spouse working full time? Perhaps a monthly cleaning service will be more than enough. The best house cleaning service will help you determine what schedule is best for your needs
A Variety of Cleaning supplies
Find out if they will use the cleaning supplies you provide, or if they will bring their own. Learn if they use cleaning supplies that are safe for your children or pets. Determine if you need to provide any special cleaning supply requests or if they will bring it all. Regardless, they should have a recommendation for what would work best on which surface. The best companies will use the best cleaning supplies for you and your home.
The Right Equipment
Like with the cleaning supplies, it would be a good idea to find out what equipment the company has and will use in your home. The best service will know what to use on carpet, hardwood, tile and stone. Double check and find out what they will be using on your surfaces.
How to Choose Residential Cleaning Service?
Home is a place where we spend the majority of our time so it’s important to keep it clean and hygienic. Due to hectic schedules, people don’t have time to clean the entire house on their own therefore people hiring the services of cleaning professionals. Also, you want to hire the ones whom you can trust and who charge fair prices for the cleaning services.
Now the question arises here is how to choose the best company! In order to ensure whether you are choosing the correct company or not, it’s important to invest some time in going thorough research. Not only this, one must ask few questions before hiring the cleaning service. Remember to choose the best company if you are looking for the services of house cleaning as it’s a matter of cleanliness. Let’s go through this blog to know more about the same!
What Cleaning Products Company Utilize?
There are many companies who carry their own cleaning supplies with them. Before finalizing any company, make sure the products they are utilizing are safe and will not ruin the look of your home. It’s important to ask this question if you have pets in your home or anyone in your family member is suffering from allergies. A professional company will let you know the type of cleaning products they will utilize and what all services they offer.
Can The Company Provide References?
There are many companies that can provide a list of references without asking a single question. This way you can contact their prior customer in order to know more about the company. Not only this, one can check the reviews of their clients as they will also help you in giving clarity about the company.
How Much They Charge?
People generally look for companies who provide quality cleaning services at reasonable prices. Choose the company who can provide you a rough estimate for cleaning service as it will help you in determining whether the company is within your budget or not.
Ways To Get Rid Of Snakes By Changing The Environment
IDENTIFYING A SNAKE INFESTATION
It can be very difficult to realize that you have snakes on your property until the problem becomes more severe. Snakes will typically hide in confined spaces, avoiding contact with humans. We often find snakes living in crawlspaces, walls, gardens, decks, and any overgrown vegetation surrounding the property.
Snakes do leave behind a few signs of their presence. They can cause damage to structures, where they have created their nests. You may also realize that you have a snake problem if you see snakeskin in your yard or within your house
Many homeowners, unfortunately, discover that they have a snake infestation when they are face to face with a snake. If you do see a snake, give it space and call a professional as soon as possible
Banded water snakes are nonvenomous snakes that are commonly mistaken for cottonmouth snakes. These snakes have heavy bodies with both dark markings and lighter colored scales. Banded water snakes can grow up to three feet long and have broad, flat heads, which is another characteristic that gets them mixed up with cottonmouth snakes so often.
BANDED WATER SNAKE BEHAVIORS
As their name suggests, these snakes prefer to live in or near water—they are even known to be one of the strongest swimmers out of all types of snakes. It’s important to note they are typically found in fresh water sources, including lakes and ponds. While they aren’t aggressive, banded water snakes aren’t particularly friendly and will avoid contact with humans at all cost. When threatened, they may release an unpleasant odor or even bite; although their bite is not venomous it can still be quite painful.
How to Get Rid of Snakes
NOTE: If venomous snakes are a known issue on your property, we strongly recommend you consult with a professional wildlife removal company prior to any snake inspection or removal efforts.
You can use snake tongs to catch live snakes and physically remove them from a given area. We highly recommend you practice with a rubber snake or piece of hose prior to trying catch a live snake with the tongs. Snake tongs come in varying lengths. While the longer length tongs will keep you further away from the snake, they are heavier and a little hard to manipulate. When trying to grab a snake with tongs, you want to aim for about 1/3 of the way down the snake’s body. Grab too close to the snake’s head and you risk injuring the snake and also causing it to struggle and possibly try to escape. Grab too far to the back end and the snake may wind up in striking distance. Once you have grabbed the snake with the tongs you should carefully and slowly lift the snake while keeping the tail of the snake on the ground and gently drag it towards the area you intend to let it go or dispatch it. If you lift the snake all of the way it will likely struggle to get away.
Pros and cons: Snake tongs can be used anywhere on your property and inside the structure which makes them very versatile. The downside is that you must come pretty close to snake in order to capture them with tongs.
The second method of capturing snakes that we would recommend is the use of snake glue board traps. Some snake glue boards such as the Cahaba brand can be used outdoors next to the foundation or under structures or in gardens. Other snake glue boards are less hardy and should only be used indoors. Snake glue boards do not contain any bait or lures. This means that the glue boards will only be effective if they are used in areas where snakes are known to frequent or use as travel paths.
Outdoors you should place the cahaba snake boards in shaded areas in gardens, near foundations, under sheds or other structures, along fence lines and other areas you have noticed snakes frequently. It is important to note that snakes like to travel with one side of their bodies touching against a vertical surface and you should place your boards so that the snake slithers into the glue board. Snake traps should be checked often if you plan to live release snakes that are captured
Snakes and Toads Provide Garden Pest Control
Encountering a snake in the garden causes many people to shriek or even panic. Yet snakes and another often unloved creature, the toad, are among the most effective forms of pest control. If you tolerate these herpetological visitors – or better yet, encourage their presence – you’ll be less likely to share your garden with ravenous bugs, or bottles of pesticide.
There are several snakes that make themselves at home in local gardens. The common garter snake is identifiable by the three yellow stripes running along the back. In my garden, this snake often suns itself between rows of vegetables, absorbing heat while digesting slugs, caterpillars, sowbugs, and other garden pests. Larger garter snakes (they can grow about three feet long) also eat meadow voles, which will otherwise wreak havoc on roots, tubers, and bark.
My favorite snakes are among the most docile encountered in a garden: the smooth green snake and ring-necked snake. The grass-hued scales of the green snake blend in well. Almost three fourths of its diet consists of insects, including grasshoppers, hornworms, and other crop-munching caterpillars. The ring-necked snake, named for its golden collar, stalks similar prey, but it does so under the stars. With a back the color of night, and its bright yellow belly pressed to the earth, it’s well camouflaged for nocturnal hunting
In contrast, the milk snake strikes when threatened. Although non-venomous, the milk snake’s attitude, size (it grows to three feet long) and rows of alternating reddish-brown splotches, which resemble the patterning of a copperhead or timber rattlesnake, have earned an undeserved reputation and the misnomer of “adder.” In fact, it is harmless to all but the mice, voles, other small mammals and other snakes that comprise up to 70 percent of its diet.
You can attract snakes to your garden by providing habitat: loose rock piles, old tree stumps, brush piles, prone boards, a stack of wood, and unkempt corner swales. And since pesticides can sicken and kill reptiles and amphibians, maintaining a chemical-free garden safeguards these natural predators.
Snake Control
Non-Poisonous Snakes Identification and Description
Despite their reputation for the contrary, most snakes in the United State are not poisonous. In fact, of all the many species in the country, only a few are actually potentially harmful; rattlesnakes, copperheads, cottonmouths, coral snakes, and sea snakes.
For the most part, snakes aren’t highly adaptable creatures and require a specific habitat in order to survive. Smaller species often live underground, while others, like green snakes make their homes in trees. In generalities, snakes prefer dark, cool and damp places where food is readily available.
Although there isn’t an absolute pattern for snake infestations, there are areas that seem to be more attractive than others. Firewood that is stacked directly on the ground, old lumber piles, flower beds and gardens with an excess of mulch, disorderly basements, junk piles and barn lofts. Barn lofts are especially appealing when stored feed attracts rodents, as are attics with rat or mice control problems. Pond and river banks–especially when there are boards, tires and other items in the surrounding area, additionally with unmowed lawns and abandoned lots are also alluring to snakes.
Diet and Feeding Habits
Every snake is a predator, but diets may widely vary depending on the species. Rat snakes for example, as their name would indicates, eat primarily rodents, baby birds and eggs. Some snakes eat primarily insects, while other smaller species, like earth snakes and worm snakes, eat earthworms, slugs, and salamanders. Water snakes eat primarily frogs, fish, and tadpoles.
Damage Possibilities
Aside from frightening people, nonpoisonous snakes are completely harmless and tend not to cause damage. Once a snake or a group of snakes is identified as non-poisonous, most methods for removal are inexpensive and fairly non-invasive.
Snake Removal
When Snakes Get Into Your Home
Snake are generally quite sensitive to a human’s presence so when they get into your home, they’re not easy to spot or even realize they’re there. But once you do see one, it will surely cause a concern.
Although the majority of snakes are completely harmless, there is the possibility that the snake you’ve encountered is one of the venomous types, of which means you need to take the proper precautions for the sake of the safely of your family and pets. An encounter with a snake is not worth the cost of getting bit by a dangerous one. One of the most common areas snakes enter homes is through the openings in weeping bricks. A good percentage of the time that, and open doors are their entry points
A snake problem calls for the help of an experienced removal specialist to ensure all precautions are taken, that the snake is handled and removal humanely, and that effective prevention and control methods are devised and properly implemented.
There are some key reasons that should prompt you to hire us for a snake removal job, and they are because:
if you encounter a Mississauga rattlesnake in your home, you’re immediately at risk of being bit by it’s venomous fangs
they post more serious threats to pets and children
if they are in your home because of a food source like mice or birds, they may end up carrying bacteria with them to other places of your home
regardless of species, you can get bitten, and may require medical attention
they may sleep in areas where we put our feet or step on, and severely frighten a family member
Snakes don’t particularly like to live near humans but if they accidentally make their way into your home or basement, they may need some help leaving. Snakes also hibernate in the winter and at those times are rarely seen. But come spring, they start slithering about, and are looking for the way to the front door. Sit back and let us help them get there.
The Science Of Engine Rebuilding
“Rebuilt” is a relative term when it comes to engines
Buying a classic car can be an uncertain proposition, especially when it comes to words like “restored” or “rebuilt.” “Restored” can refer to any number of finish levels, with terms like “body-off,” “concours” or “rotisserie” tossed around with abandon. The same sort of ambiguity applies to the term “rebuilt,” particularly when it comes to an engine, and it can mean anything from a newspaper-masked rattle-can paint job to a completely remanufactured long block engine assembly.
The difference between rebuilt and remanufactured — if sellers are using them correctly — is that rebuilt implies some engine components and parts were replaced as needed, while remanufactured means that the engine was completely torn down, cleaned, inspected and machined back to original or better tolerances than when it left the factory. The terms “balanced” and “blueprinted” are often associated with this type of work. Rebuilt engines run in scope from the aforementioned rattle-can job to complete remanufacture. It’s in your best interest to determine exactly what’s been done, and by whom, to an engine in any car you’re looking at. Following are a few varying degrees of “rebuilt.”
TOP-END REBUILD
As the cylinder head or heads comprise the top end of an engine, this remove, rebuild and replace procedure is known as a top-end rebuild. An overheated engine can blow the head gaskets. Clouds of white coolant or blue oil smoke might mean it’s time for a top-end rebuild or valve job. The sort of heat that breaches head gaskets usually warps cylinder heads in the process. Replacing the head gasket after an overheat involves removing the cylinder head and either sending it out for machine work and a valve job or swapping it as a core for a remanufactured head. A fresh cylinder head can breathe new life into an engine.
RE-RING AND BEARING
If the engine is out of the bay for something like a top-end rebuild, a re-ring can be considered depending on the condition of the engine, bearings and clearances — and if the deck on the block is true. Pulling the crankshaft and pistons for a good look at the connecting rod and main bearings is another way to gauge engine condition. A fresh set of piston rings and/or bearings in an otherwise untouched engine is known as a re-ring, which is not so much an engine rebuild as a refresh to restore proper compression and should be considered as a temporary lease on engine life.
SHORT BLOCK
If the cylinder walls are scored, the crankshaft and bearings are shot, pistons holed or the deck is warped, then it’s time to send the rotating assembly and block out to your favorite machine shop. The block is decked, bored and honed for new pistons. The connecting rods are resized with new rod bolts installed. Camshafts are reground or replaced. The crankshaft is either polished or cut and then polished. Timing chains or belts are renewed. The finished rotating assembly minus the cylinder head (or heads) is known as a short block. A short block can mean sending the original to the machine shop or exchanging your rebuildable core for a like remanufactured short block.
Buying a replacement car engine – what do you need to know?
Engines are the heart of any vehicle. If you’ve got an engine problem, you’ve got a car problem. Despite their importance, though, engines can be purchased second-hand like almost any car parts. However, there are many things you’ll need to consider when purchasing a replacement second-hand engine for your vehicle.
Which type of engine do you need to get?
Understandably, car engines aren’t completely interchangeable. This doesn’t mean that there isn’t some crossover: two slightly different models released by the same company within a five-year period might well be able to use the same engine.
Long or short block?
One of the main considerations is whether or not the engine is a long or short block. These two variations can actually be found on what is otherwise the same engine, so it’s an important point.
The difference between the two is on which engine components are included:
A long block engine includes the full works when it comes to parts: cylinder heads, camshafts, valves, valve springs and an intact head gasket. As such, long block engines can normally be installed quickly and easily, and will make a suitable replacement for any engine that’s been written off.
A short block engine, on the other hand, is designed for cases where the full engine doesn’t need replacing; just parts of it. A short block engine is usually much cheaper as a result.
A note on replacing parts: it’s worth checking (and double-checking) to ensure that it’s not a single part of the engine causing the problems. The following individual bits are all capable of causing wear and tear:
Engine valves. These work together, one responsible for taking in the air and fuel mixture and the other responsible for expelling exhaust.
Piston. This is a piece of cylindrical metal that moves upwards and downwards within the cylinder.
Piston rings. These seal off the area between the cylinder’s inner edge and the outer edge of the piston and prevent the leakage of fuel and air into the sump during the compression and combustion phases.
Connecting rod. This allows the crankshaft to be connected to the piston; both ends may rotate to allow for full movement of both pistons.
Crankshaft. Changes upward and downward strokes of pistons into a circular pattern, allowing the pistons to perform their function.
Oil sump. Otherwise known as the oil pan, this surrounds the crankshaft.
Should I Buy A Car With A Rebuilt Engine?
An engine can wear to the point of being unable to perform adequately. At that stage, it must be taken apart and then put back together with new parts to replace the worn components. Tell tale signs of an engine that needs to be rebuilt include high oil consumption and white smoke coming from the tail pipe.
Rebuilding an engine is a detailed process that includes the cleaning and assessment of the short block, replacement of the piston rings, bearings or other components in addition to reconditioning of the cylinders in order to make sure the engine is in top shape. This can sometimes be a sign that the engine has experienced some wear and tear, though
Where was it rebuilt?
Our expert for this article, Troy Snyder, is the chief operating officer of NADA Guides, a publication that follows the transaction prices of used cars. The folks at NADA Guides offer great insight into the value of used cars. “A rebuilt engine can be as good as the OEM one,” Snyder said. “Sometimes a rebuilt engine can maintain the original engine warranty.”
If you’re looking at a car with a rebuilt engine, he said that you should look at where the service was performed. “Certain organizations (like a dealership) are trusted to handle such a job,” she said. “If you go down to your regular mechanics shop there’s more risk involved.”
Even so, Snyder said vehicles with rebuilt engines aren’t necessarily something you should avoid. “I wouldn’t put a rebuilt engine in the same realm as a salvage title,” he said. A salvage title could have many underlying problems like flood damage or a serious accident history, while a car with a rebuilt engine has just one concern: the motor.
Engine Rebuild and Replacement Services
Affordable Engine Rebuild Service Near You
There is a good chance that an engine rebuild could save you a whole ton of cash, depending on the root of the problem and the parts required to fix it. As one of the few shops in partnership with NAPA, you can take comfort in the knowledge that we use only the finest auto parts and have the skill required to integrate them seamlessly into your engine.
At times, an engine rebuild can save you anywhere from 20 to 50 percent of the cost of replacing the engine completely. Depending on the parts needed and the number of man-hours required doing the job. Often, repairing the engine will also give you a good opportunity to replace a few parts that would have otherwise been neglected. Let us take care of your car’s needs. You may also find there are a few upgrades you would like to make while we have our heads under the hood.
In some cases, simply replacing the engine may be a better option than an engine rebuild. It will add valuable years to the life of your engine and turn a once problematic and fickle vehicle into the working and reliable car you require as a driver. Replacing the engine also removes the quick and potentially annoying addition of miscellaneous parts such as hoses, belts, filters, and coolant. Rest assured, our number one priority is providing you with the best option for returning your vehicle back to you in a stable working condition.
Reliable Engine Services You Can Trust
The vast majority of engine rebuilds could have been avoided with proper diagnostics from a qualified and honest mechanic. We are ready to be realistic and forthcoming with, what we know, is one of your most important investments. An accurate diagnosis of the root issue is extremely important in saving you money, both in parts and the cost of labor. Unlike other mechanics, we are dedicated to the idea that healthy engines make for happy people. Fixing the problem correctly the first time gives you, our customers, a reason to come back.
Choosing the Right Machine Shop for your Engine
Every month, we receive emails from enthusiasts asking what steps should be taken to begin building his/her engine
Build it right the first time.
So what do you look for in a good machine shop? We’ll try to shed a little light on the matter, so that next time you are hunting for the right place you know you’re in good hands.
Foremost, the first and most important thing you want to address is knowing how you plan to drive your vehicle (time attack, drag, autocross) before you start your project. All too often, we hear about customers wanting a stout, reliable street motor who suddenly change their mind in the middle of a machine job and request that their setup spins to 8,000 rpm with the addition of a big turbo or nitrous, all while on a budget.
Machine Shop
Is the shop clean or messy? Most machine shops are typically cluttered, but on the flip side, a shop that is messy will typically reflect the machinist’s work. A shop that is clean will have machinery that is clean. Simply stated, clean tools do their jobs better.
Types of Machinery/Tools
The defining characteristic of most shops is the type of machines they operate. Is the equipment new, top of the line, and well maintained? Many customers prefer old-school machinists using old-school machines, but take into consideration that as a piece of equipment gets older its ability to hold narrow tolerances slips, particularly if it has not been regularly maintained and periodically calibrated. CNC machines are regularly calibrated or replaced due to wear and tear issues every 10 years to keep up with newer, more improved technology.
Expat Tax Preparation
What To Ask When Choosing a Tax Advisor
“What’s Your Tax Background?”
First, define a tax preparer’s credibility by asking for professional credentials and background. Experience is key when it comes to taxes and year-round accounting services.
CERTIFICATIONS ARE CRITICAL WHEN IT COMES TO TAX AND ACCOUNTING. IT’S ALL ABOUT ACRONYMS:
CPA: A certified public accountant, or CPA, is certified to act as a public accountant. A CPA is the only licensed qualification in accounting and is granted after you pass an exam. CPAs can practice in other areas of accountancy besides taxes, too.
EA: An enrolled agent (EA), the highest credential awarded by the IRS, is a federally-authorized tax practitioner who has technical expertise in the field of taxation and who is empowered by the U.S. Department of Treasury to represent taxpayers before all administrative levels of the Internal Revenue Service for audits, collections, and appeals. Only enrolled agents, attorneys, and CPAs may represent taxpayers before the IRS.
“How Do You Charge Clients?”
Accountants and tax preparers can charge in a variety of ways: by the hour, by the return, by the complexity of forms filed, or even a percentage of the total amount of your refund (a practice that is frowned upon). And with cloud-based accounting, you may have an upcharge to use the platform. While you might not get a hard number of the amount you will owe, establish the context of cost so you are not surprised down the road.
“How Do You File Taxes?”
Most individuals prefer e-filing a tax return, yet many tax preparers will mail them. Define the filing method they use with clients. (Generally, a paid tax preparer who files 11 or more tax returns is required to electronically file.)
Availability is important – not only within the working day, but also year round.
First ask: “What is your typical response time?” (Even in the heat of tax season.) Point blank: you may have a question that needs prompt attention, so choose an advisor who is available and quick to respond – preferably within 48-hours.
Then ask: “What is your availability year-round?” Even after taxes are filed, the IRS may need more information about your tax return, so the preparer should be available to you. On top of this, your taxes are just one part of your overall tax and financial picture, so it’s important to find an advisor who suits your needs throughout the year.
How to Choose a Tax Preparer for Truckers
Think – Who did your income taxes last year? Did they give you good service? Were you happy with the result? Did they even KNOW trucker taxes? Over a year ago, the TruckingOffice team made a commitment to go beyond simply providing the very best bookkeeping and record keeping services available. We began a search for the very best in other important services that all professional drivers need, like factoring, insurance and tax services.
The questions we asked ourselves in our search are the same ones that you should ask yourself if you happen to be searching for a new preparer:
Do they give prompt, attentive service?
Do they know trucker taxes inside and out?
Do they provide a great value for the fees charged?
Have they been around basically forever? Do they have a track record? Have they proven themselves?
And finally, are they fun and pleasant to deal with?
If filing your taxes is about as fun as a trip to the dentist, or if you answered “No” to even one of the questions above when you checked out another tax service,
Questions to Ask a Tax Preparer
When interviewing a prospective tax preparer, ask these questions:
Do you have an IRS issued Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN)?
Do you offer a free initial consultation?
How do you keep up with the latest tax law?
Do you regularly take continuing education courses?
Are you a member of any professional tax or accounting organizations?
What are your professional credentials?
Do you abide by a code of ethics?
How do you determine your fee to prepare my return(s)? Is it a fixed fee or an hourly rate? Is it based on a % of my refund?
Who will prepare my return? Will it be you or someone else in your office?
If you have employees who will work on my return, do they hold any credentials and do they take continuing education courses?
When do you require payment?
When can I expect to receive my completed tax returns back from you?
How long have you been in business?
Are you bonded or insured?
Do you outsource any tax preparation services?
What happens if I get audited?
Will you store my tax information? How will it be stored and for how long?
Can I contact you after tax season if needed regarding my return?
Enrolled Agents (EA) – People with this credential are licensed by the IRS and specifically trained in federal tax planning, preparation and representation. Enrolled agents hold the most expansive license IRS grants and must pass a suitability check, as well as a three-part exam. They complete 72 hours of continuing education every 3 years
Certified Public Accountants (CPA) – People with this credential are licensed by state boards of accountancy and have passed the CPA exam. They must meet education, experience, and good character requirements established by their boards of accountancy and comply with ethical requirements as well as complete continuing education to maintain an active license. CPAs can offer a range of services; some CPAs specialize in tax preparation and planning.
Attorneys – People with this credential are licensed by state courts or their designees, such as the state bar. Generally, requirements include completion of a degree in law, passage of an ethics and bar exam and on-going continuing education. Attorneys can offer a range of services; some attorneys specialize in tax preparation and planning
How to become a professional tax preparer
Create your PTIN
Anyone who prepares tax returns and charges a fee for their services is required to have a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) . There aren’t any educational requirements to get your PTIN. You can create one online on the IRS website. The process only takes about 15 minutes
Apply for an EFIN
If you plan to file tax returns electronically, the IRS requires that you have an Electronic Filing Identification Number or EFIN . You can complete your application quickly on the IRS website, here. You will also need to provide your fingerprints to the IRS unless you are already a certified licensed professional, like a CPA or attorney. It should take about 45 days to get your EFIN.
Register with your state
Every state is different. Depending on where you plan to work, you may or may not need to register as a tax preparer. Look up your state’s requirements before you begin accepting clients.
Work at an office
When you are just starting out as a tax preparer, you may find it helpful to work for an established tax prep service for a brief period. Not only will you be able to ask questions and gain experience during tax season, but you could also learn valuable lessons about the state and local requirements where you plan to start your business.
Choose a tax prep software
Every tax preparer is different. Depending on your level of experience in the industry, you may require certain things from your tax preparation software. Consider your needs first.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT TAX PROFESSIONAL FOR YOU
How do you choose a professional?
For anything, really?
When you need legal or medical advice, an electrician, or a mechanic?
Do you take the phone book and choose a random entry?
Do you drive around stopping at the first place you find?
No. You shop around. You ask friends, family, and coworkers for recommendations. Never do you go in blindly. But most importantly, you ask questions! So why would you choose just anyone to hire to prepare your tax return? Why would you use a chain tax service where you don’t know a single thing about the person who will prepare your tax return? Many people already have a tax preparer they trust and have been working with for years.
You are the boss in this scenario, and the professional is working for you. You need to be the one who makes the decision to hire a particular person to prepare your income tax return.
You’ll even hear about a “friend of a friend” whose sister used this guy out of a back room without windows who got them a huge refund when they should have gotten peanuts.
Sadly, it’s hard to tell who is qualified, who is for real, who should be trusted with your income taxes. There isn’t a perfect way to find out about a person or company other than to ask around or check out reviews online.