Practical Tips For Home Renovation

Renovating a House: The Ultimate Guide

Considering renovating a house? Don’t start until you have read our complete guide, covering everything from finding and buying a project to putting the final flourishes to the decorating scheme

Renovating a house can be both exciting and daunting — not to mention the potential for making a profit that it offers. From discovering original features hidden under years worth of dust or the chance to put your own stamp on something — or perhaps the best route to getting a bigger house in a better area than you would otherwise be able to afford.

The success of renovating a house relies on being prepared for what lies ahead and, to a certain degree, an expectation that there will be some surprises in store.

Renovating a house can bring about a set of issues that will need to be resolved before your dream home can emerge — and these issues tend to involve hidden costs. Being aware of these and having a step-by-step plan of action should mean the project remains on schedule and budget.

A schedule of works is essential to anyone renovating a house. It basically outlines every single job that needs to be done from start to finish of a project, in the right order. Ideally you also want to include who is doing what and how much it will cost on the list.

Home renovation guide

How to avoid common mistakes

Whether you’re intending to renovate your home to make it more comfortable or increase its value, careful planning is required. As renovations, no matter how big or small, require attention to detail, here are a few tips to get you off to a good start.

Set your renovation goals

Consider what you want to achieve with your renovations. If you’re renovating due to your family growing in size then you may be thinking about adding a bedroom or perhaps increasing living space. Renovations can increase the value of your property too. If this is the goal of your reno you’ll need to carefully research which areas to focus on as some add more value than others.

Get lots of inspiration

Make sure you have a clear idea of what you want before you start getting quotes and choosing materials. If you know you want to redo your kitchen or bathroom, but aren’t sure what style you want, you can always get great ideas from home design magazines or use Pinterest.

Make a detailed plan

Creating a detailed plan is essential to the success of your renovation project. While some costs will be dependent on which contractor you choose, there are some things you’ll need to decide on beforehand, including your budget and preferred materials and finishes. Saving or splurging on tiles, taps and bathroom inclusions can make the difference between an economical or over-the-top bathroom renovation.

Compare quotes

Get quotes from a few different contractors before making a decision to renovate anything in your home. This stage is usually a reality check and gives you a chance to stop and think through your options. Compare quotes and make sure you’re getting a good deal. Check the contractor’s reputation and ask plenty of questions to ensure that everything you require is included in the quote and there are no hidden costs you might incur.

Project Planning; Home Structure

Before beginning a home renovation project, there are basic preliminary steps which must be taken. Before even formulating a renovation design plan, you must be knowledgeable about and understand important structural features of the home.

The preceding chapter provided an overview of house structure basics. It is vital to clearly understand the structure of your home before beginning any renovation project that will alter the structure in any way. Therefore, a review of that information as well as other aspects of house structure is important.

Since many renovation plans call for moving or removing walls and making changes to the building services such as plumbing, electrical, and HVAC, it is important you know details about each. A load-bearing wall, for instance, cannot simply be removed. By mapping out the structure of your home and service systems within it, you will have a better grasp about the feasibility of a project, and how much work will be required to complete it.

REVIEW OF THE STRUCTURE OF YOUR HOME

The framing of your home is the foundation, floors, walls, and roof which all tie together to form a solid structure. These are the actual boards which make up the floor joists, wall studs, and roof trusses or rafters.

There are two types of framing used in home construction as noted in chapter 1 – platform framing and balloon framing:

Platform framing – the style of framing used in most modern construction projects. For each story of the structure, wall studs extend from a bottom plate at the floor (or foundation) to the top plate which is either attached to floor joists of the next story, or roof trusses. The floor structures for each story are platforms that extend to the perimeter of the house. Because each story has its own support structure, this style framing is much less complicated when making alterations.

Balloon framing – commonly found in older homes; consisting of wall studs that extend from the foundation to the roof structure – even multiple story structures. The first story rests on the foundation; second and third story levels are supported by 1X4 ribbons set in notches in the stud walls.

A Beginner’s Guide To Managing A Remodel

Browsing photos and ideas can be a fun part of creating your dream room. But making your designs a reality also takes smart planning and organization. Project management is an essential part of remodeling, and there’s nothing like the feeling of implementing a plan to create something new and beautiful. These tips can help you achieve your desired results.

Become a list writer. Making lists is key when it comes to project management. It’s the only way to properly organize your thoughts and prevent any details from being forgotten.

The most important list is your scope of work, or specifications, document. This is basically a detailed list of everything to be done, from start to finish. If you’re dealing with one main builder who’s organizing all the work, then you’ll need to make sure he or she gets a copy, so the goals are clear and all the information is provided.

Make sure you’re all on the same page. If you’re coordinating separate subcontractors (cabinetmaker, plumber, electrician), then it would be worth indicating who’s responsible for each task. Give a complete copy of the specifications to all of them, so they’re all aware of what everyone is doing. Discuss the specifications with your subcontractors since they may be able to provide help and advice. A schedule is also useful, so you can keep track of progress and everyone knows who’s going to be on-site on which day.

With prior knowledge that a partition wall will feature some lighting, for instance, the builders will know to leave the stud frame open for the electrician to run the wires through before it’s boarded up and plastered over. Trying to feed wires through after the fact is much harder, takes longer and risks unnecessary damage.

DIY Home Renovation Guide

If you have decided to tackle a DIY home renovation, half the challenge is just getting started. With solid planning and preparation your home renovation can become a financial and personal triumph.

Get inspired – this is your home, after all! Start window shopping in furniture, homeware and design stores, and think about finishes and looks that really grab your attention. Peruse your local bookstore, pore over interior design glossies or pick up copies of local and international interior magazines

Revamping your castle can significantly improve your lifestyle and save money in the long run. It may mean you can stay put and avoid the costly upheaval of moving house. It can also build your home’s equity, particularly when it comes to kitchen and bathroom renovations.

DIY Home Renovation Guide will take you through the process of planning, budgeting and checking local building legislation and requirements

We also have some hands-on DIY renovation tips and advice to keep you safe during your home’s transformation:

Create your home renovation budget

DIY renovation project management

Hands-on home renovation tips

Renovation safety plan and survival guide

DIY home renovation checklist

Know The Work Of The Trenchless Pipe Replace

Things to know about sewer line bellies

When it comes to the various components in a home plumbing system, few play as central a role as your main sewer line. The sewer line acts as a conduct from your home to your city’s sewer main, usually located beneath the road in front of a house. Waste water flows out of your home through the sewer pipe en route to the municipal waste treatment plant.

If anything should go wrong with your sewer line, your entire home’s plumbing system may be affected. One of the most frequent issues affecting sewer lines comes in the form of sewer line bellies. If you would like to improve your knowledge of this common problem, keep reading. This article outlines four things to know about sewer line bellies.

Sewer line bellies impede the flow of waste

A residential plumbing system contains no pumps or other mechanical parts responsible for pushing waste to the city sewer main. Instead, gravity alone ensures the proper flow of waste out of your home. In order to facilitate flow, the sewer pipe leads out of your home at a sloping angle. Ideally, the sewer line should have an angle of ¼ inchfor every foot of pipe.

A sewer line belly involves part of the sewer line sagging downward, taking on a curved shape which impedes the natural flow of waste. Not only does the waste water no longer have the benefit of flowing downhill all the way to the sewer main, but it also has to move upward along the second half of the curve.

In some cases, the pressure of the water flowing out of your home may provide sufficient force to push past a sewer line belly. Yet over time, debris tends to build up along the base of the belly. This build-up makes it harder for waste to move through the sewer line. Eventually you may begin experiencing sewage backups inside of your home.

Sewer line bellies usually have natural causes

Most home sewer lines start off with a correct angle. Yet as the years go by, those pipes often develop bellies as the result of shifting soil. As dirt compacts beneath the sewer line, it will sag downward into any void spaces that form. A variety of natural causes can lead to sewer bellies, including tree root growth, excessive soil hydration, earthquakes, and even normal seasonal temperature fluctuations.

Proper installation techniques prevent sewer bellies

While the factors that lead to sewer bellies tend occur naturally, well-installed sewer lines can often resist such forces. To begin with, contractors should thoroughly compact the soil before installing the sewer line. Compaction minimizes the likelihood of soil-density changes leaving the pipe under-supported.

An equally important tactic involves installing a bedding material in the trench before placing the pipe. Sand makes the best choice for a bedding material, although gravel can also be effective. Unlike soil, sand will not compact over time. As a result, the base of the sewer pipe should maintain a decent level of support.

Many sewer belly diagnoses are incorrect

Contractors often use video inspection technology to diagnose sewer bellies. Unfortunately, less experienced plumbers often misinterpret what they see. Noticing a dip in the water level at a certain place in the pipe, they assume they have found a sewer belly. Instead, your pipe may suffer from the problem known as channeling.

Channeling happens when the bottom of a sewer line erodes, leading to low spots. In extreme cases, the bottom of the pipe may even disappear entirely. The issue here has nothing to do with slope, and everything to do with corrosion and wear. Repairing channeling, therefore, requires a much different repair procedure than repairing a sewer belly.

Sewer Line Belly vs. Channeling – Why the confusion?

The issue lies with the company performing the video inspection. At first glance, both conditions may have the same symptom – the camera going underwater during a sewer video inspection. However, only after thorough investigation with a jetter can the problem be properly diagnosed.

In conclusion, a belly in a sewer line and channeling are easily confused. We have found that when our customers mention they have a belly in their sewer line, 99% of the time the line is channeled instead. Since a sewer line belly is accompanied by an issue with the pipe’s slope, conventional replacement is the only repair option.  However, channeling differs in that the pipe’s slope (in most cases) remains functional. This means that channeling may be repaired by trenchless pipelining, saving you time, money, headaches and the mess associated with conventional replacement.

How Can a Sag in a Gravity Sewer Line Be Fixed?

Many homeowners do not realize the intricate piping that moves sewage waste from their structure to a municipal sewage pipeline. Most sewer lines use gravity as a method of moving waste water and solids down a pipe. However, sewer lines can develop problems, such as sagging. Sagging is repairable, although it can be costly based on the repair method chosen.

Sewer Line Design

Sewer lines use positive slopes to take advantage of gravity’s force pulling waste water and solids away from a building. Typically, a sewer pipe is installed at an angle that ensures a 1/4-inch fall for each foot of piping length. In fact, the slope can be as small as 1/8 inch, if the installation is limited in space, although this is not a preferable spacing.

Sewer Line Sag Identification

A sewer line sag is also known as a belly. This sag generates a negative slope along the pipe’s length, creating a pooling area for water and waste. Typically, sags are caused by improper soil compaction, as well as soil shifting. The pipe becomes unstable, slowly sagging with the soil’s movement.

Dig and Replace

The old-fashioned method of repairing a sag is digging and replacing. A contractor digs down into the soil until he reaches the sag. The contractor replaces the section and fills the trench. On average, a dig-and-replace process can cost about $50 to $60 for each foot. However, many factors can increase the price, including the piping’s depth and moving above ground structures.

Trenchless Technology

Newer piping replacement methods have been devised over the years, including trenchless techniques, costing about $40 to $80 per piping foot. In-line expansion is a trenchless method that uses the older pipe to guide a new pipe into place. An expansion head pushes the old pipe forward while pulling the new pipe in from behind, negating the need to dig. Soil is compacted as the expansion head moves forward, creating a solid area for the new pipe to remain at a positive slope. Another method is sliplining. This technique slips a smaller pipe within the old pipe. After the new pipe is positioned, the old pipe slides away and is discarded.

The typical causes of belly in sewer line systems

There are several reasons why bellies occur in sewer lines. One of the most obvious is poor planning. When your house was first built, the original plumbing company may not have bedded the line properly. The plumbing company should have used crushed stone or sand underneath the pipe to protect it from settling. Without proper bedding, your pipes can sag and bellies can form. In many municipalities a crushed stone bed is required by plumbing code.

A failure to follow plumbing plans can cause a belly in sewer lines

Another reason a belly in a sewer line system can occur is if the original plumber failed to check the finished grade, or to follow sewer pipe plans. Grade is important to your sewer lines, because lines need to slope downwards in order to use gravity. If the slope is not great enough, the pipe cannot properly remove waste from the home. Planning is an important part of successful plumbing design and installation. When unprofessional plumbers fail to follow plans, problems like this arise. Line levels, torpedo levels, or laser levels, are some of the tools used to prevent this problem during drain pipe installation.

Apartment Kitchen Remodeling

How can I save money on my kitchen remodel?

Did you know that remodeling your kitchen is one of the best ways to add value to your home? It’s the most lived-in room of the home, so it’s important to keep it up to date, for your own satisfaction as well as for any potential buyers. The downside, however, is that kitchen remodeling can also be incredibly expensive. So how do you maximize your home’s value on a budget? We’re glad you asked. Here are some easy and affordable solutions to revamp the look of your kitchen for far less than a costly remodel.

Reface existing cabinets

Hands down, this is the easiest way to give your kitchen an inexpensive yet dramatic makeover. If your cabinet drawers and doors are in good shape and don’t need to be replaced, you can save thousands of dollars by simply refacing them. It can be a tedious project once you get started, but within a week, your kitchen will look refreshingly new. Here are a few tips if you plan on refacing your kitchen cabinets on your own:

  • First of all, ensure that your cabinets can be refaced. You can only reface cabinet faces that are real wood or made from MDF board—laminate doors can not be refaced.
  • Prep all cabinet faces to be painted by sanding them first with 220-grit sandpaper.
  • Choose a darker stain than your existing cabinets. You can use a gel-stain, latex, or oil-based, but regardless of the type you choose, it’s very important to buy a top-quality paint, since the paint is what will make the most difference in your kitchen. Gel-based stains produce a robust color, since the gel sits on “top” of the wood, versus other types of stains, which permeate into the wood fibers—thus losing some of that deep, rich color.
  • An oil paint with a semi-gloss gives a more polished, professional look.
  • Consider buying a spray gun. They’re inexpensive, relatively easy to use, and can be found at any home hardware store. For around $150 you can buy a quality spray-gun and an air compressor—compared to the cost of brand-new cabinets, which could run you close to the $15,000 mark. If you choose latex paint, you may have to thin out your paint with distilled water; if it’s oil-based, you will want to use a compatible thinner, so check the can for more details.
  • Remove all of your doors and spray or brush-paint them flat for the best results. You can actually construct your own “painting station” by easily installing two screws into a board to lay the cabinet flat and allow you to paint both sides. If you’re unable to lay your cabinet doors flat, you can hang the doors from a ladder with wire to paint or spray them, but be on the lookout for more paint runs if you choose that method.
  • To save yourself time, simply brush-paint the boxes of the cabinet instead of spraying them—they don’t get as much visibility as the cabinet doors.
  • Finish your refacing with a clear coat for a polished, even gloss.

Go with ready-to-assemble cabinets.

The biggest cost in a kitchen remodel is new cabinets. The most expensive option is going custom, for which the cabinetry is designed, built and installed to specifically fit your space. Exotic woods, ornate details and period styles will add to the cost and delivery time but result in a one-of-a-kind kitchen. Custom cabinets can cost $10,000 to $60,000, as cabinets can range from $250 to $1,500 per linear foot.

Keep existing cabinets if possible.

If your cabinets are good quality and you like the style, resurfacing is a great option. It’s amazing how color can transform a kitchen and a few coats of paint can give life to a once-drab space. Resurfacing and painting make for the most cost-effective option, but ensure that you take the steps needed to get a beautiful finish.

Appliances.

Be practical and look for energy-efficient appliances with warranties—arguably, you’ll use appliances more than other features in your kitchen. But be sure to maintain a balance between what you spend on appliances and cabinets. If you choose appliances first without considering cabinets/hardware, countertops or other features, you can box yourself into a floor plan and end up without enough money to spend on other features.

But be careful which appliances you spend on. For example, a refrigerator may need replaced in 15 years or sooner, but a cooktop will last longer. Spend there. If you have children and dirty dishes are a way of life, invest in a quality dishwasher or dishwasher drawers that make your life easier.

Across the board, stainless steel is the most popular choice and what buyers look for in a home.

Do things in the right order

This is a common mistake I see, and it can cost money and time on your project. And, even worse, it may limit your options, especially as it comes to your flooring choices. Generally, you first demo everything down to the floor and then you build it back up…from the flooring up. So you install your flooring, then you cabinets, then countertop, then backsplash and finally molding and painting. When you skip steps, things don’t come out as well, and they need to be redone. That costs extra money and extra time.

A very common mistake I see is when people can’t afford to do the whole kitchen at once, so they do it in piecemeal. This is fine…as long as you do it in the right order and plan ahead. Too many times I’ve seen homeowners do the cabinets and countertops first…and then the flooring two years later when they can afford it. The problem with this is that often there is not enough room for hardwood floors (which are 3/4″ thick) or tile for that matter (which comes out to a similar height when you factor is a mud job or backer board. You see this makes the cabinets too low. So the new flooring creates a weird height difference and makes the cabinets feel and look too low. Worse than this, the dishwasher won’t fit (or will get locked in). And the stove becomes higher than the countertop. Plan ahead. If you’re going to do this, add 3/4″ plywood underneath the cabinets so that everything will be properly aligned when you add the flooring.

Add new trim

Even if you hire someone to make custom trim for your kitchen, you’ll still save thousands of dollars by using your existing cabinets—and you’ll see just how drastically a change in trim can revamp your kitchen’s look. Adding crown molding trim or under-trim can transform your box cabinets with the look of custom built-ins—and if your cabinets have a lot of space at the top, adding crown trim will draw the eye upward and make your kitchen look bigger. Plus, with newer trends of mixing wood colors, it’s not as important to have uniform color anymore, so you may even save money by mixing wood trim color.

Use your existing kitchen layout

If you’re happy with your kitchen layout and are just craving a fresh update, work with your contractor or kitchen builder to maintain as much of your current layout as possible for a huge cost savings. Moving the actual layout of a kitchen—such as moving the position of an oven or a sink or a wall—will involve changing wires and plumbing, at much higher costs.

Does A Residential Painting Really Have To Look At Your Home To Give You An Estimate

How do you fix cracked wall paint?

Flaking paint occurs when cracked paint begins peeling off its original substrate. In its early stages, the problem appears as hairline cracks in the paint, but will worsen over time if the problem is not fixed, causing larger pieces of coatings to chip off. Paint cracking on walls, ceilings, and exterior surfaces happens due to a variety of causes, one of the most common being poor preparation of a surface prior to painting. Painting over cracked paint is a bad idea; it is important to remove any flakes from the surface before repainting.

Why Does Paint Crack and Flake?

  • Poor surface preparation, especially when the paint is applied to bare wood without priming, or to previously coated surfaces that show signs of cracking or flaking paint.
  • Using low-quality paint, as it may have inadequate adhesion and/or flexibility.
  • Spreading paint too thin during application.
  • Paint becoming brittle with age, failing to expand and contract with temperature and humidity changes.

Note: A more uncommon version of paint cracking is mud cracking, which is when paint cracks when drying due to too-thick application or extremely dry painting conditions.

How to Fix Cracked or Flaking Paint

  • If cracking does not go down to the substrate: Remove the loose or flaking paint with a scraper or wire brush, sand the area to feather the edges, prime any bare spots, and repaint the surface.
  • If cracking goes down to the substrate: Remove as much of the existing paint as possible. Methods for removal could include scraping, sanding, using a heat gun, abrasive blasting, etc. Once most of the paint is removed and surface is smooth and even, prime, and repaint with a quality latex paint.

Why do cracks occur on walls?

Here are a few common reasons:

  • Contraction and expansion: The materials (paint, plaster) that make up your wall contract and expand because of fluctuations in humidity levels and temperature changes. This is usually a problem if the wall is within a room that is periodically air-conditioned or it faces the afternoon sun quite a bit. The movement of contraction and expansion can cause hairline cracks to appear.
  • Low quality paint: Inferior quality paint results in poor paint adhesion on your wall, which leads to cracks over time. In addition, using different paints for each paint coat can also cause cracks on the wall.
  • There’s no way around it! Keep your paint consistent and use a high-quality product. It might hurt a little now, but it’s better than suffering for it down the road.
  • Impatience during plasterwork: Sometimes, patience is the best way to go. Not letting cement plaster completely dry before applying paint is actually quite a common factor attributed to cracks. So put on some Netflix and chill out! It’ll be better than buying new paint to redo your walls.
  • Poor paint job: Painting an entire house can be a huge amount of work, and it can be tempting to rush through it. But mistakes like missing out layers, or not letting previous layers completely dry can hamper your overall efforts. A good paint job takes time, so plan around it!

How to Remove Old, Cracked Paint

  • The first will be to clean out all the old damaged paint and plaster that has come loose.
  • The second step is to resurface the damaged area. I call this floating the wall or ceiling. This sometimes requires several applications of sheetrock compound which I will also refer to as MUD.
  • The last step will be to sand to a finish and apply a couple of coats of primer/ sealer.

The final outcome will depend on the amount of care put into a relatively easy job. The problem comes with having the patience to take your time and do a good job of it. Read on for detailed descriptions of each of these steps.

Prevent the onset of paint cracking and flaking:

  • Improperly prepped surfaces, like wood or brick, may harbor moisture that can make it hard for paint to adhere to walls. Avoid poor paint adhesion by properly cleaning and prepping walls, wood and brick surfaces before painting.
  • Use the correct primer for the project. Alkyd primer is a high-adhesion paint-primer, popular with building professionals. This kind of priming-liquid can adhere to many different materials, including metal, masonry, and wood. It is also useful for priming pre-painted surfaces, and builders who plan to apply oil-based paints over latex sub coats should always consider using alkyd primers on the latex first.
  • Do not dilute paint by adding too much thinner.
  • Do not apply overly thin layers of paint to walls and other surfaces.
  • If the weather conditions are too hot or too cold when paint is applied, this could lead to eventual cracking or flaking. Always apply paint when favorable weather conditions prevail.

Repairing a Plaster Wall Crack

Press gently on the wall near the crack to see if it gives.

If it’s easy to press down or if the wall flexes at all, the plaster has likely come apart from the lath.This requires reattaching the two together and cannot be fixed by a simple patch job. Contact a professional for help.

Widen the crack using a putty knife if it’s less than 1⁄4 inch (6.4 mm) wide.

It sounds counterproductive but scoring (lightly scratching) the crack creates a wider surface for the joint compound to more easily adhere to.

Spread a coat of joint compound over the crack.

Do so with a 4 in (10 cm) taping knife. Use a setting-type compound instead of drywall compound as it is stronger and can affix to plaster more securely. Apply in thin layers. Dampening the crack before applying the compound will remove any loose particles and help the compound hold better.

Press fiberglass mesh tape firmly into the wet compound over the crack. Cut the strips to size with scissors. This self-adhesive tape will prevent the crack from growing. Let dry. For the setting-type compound to dry thoroughly, your room should be between 55 and 70 °F (13 and 21 °C).

Apply 3 layers of compound over the taped area.

Let each coat dry completely in between. With each additional layer, extend the compound another 2 to 3 inches (5.1 to 7.6 cm) outside the previous layer’s edges. Your last layer should extend 12 inches (30 cm) beyond the original area. Lightly sand each layer with a fine sandpaper to remove bumps in between coats. Use a feathering technique when applying the compound. With the knife at a 70-degree angle, start at the center and pull the knife to the outside edges of each coat, increasing pressure the further away from the middle you get.

Paint over the patched area to match the rest of the wall.

If you can see a raised section where you did your repair, sand it flush to the wall before painting so it blends seamlessly. It’s smart to wait at least 24 hours prior to painting to ensure the compound is completely dry.

Self Representation In Immigration Lawyer Cases

The always necessary immigration lawyer

An immigration lawyer is the perfect ally of the immigrant. These professionals invest between 7 to 8 years to acquire the experience necessary to provide suitable counsel. Besides, they know American immigration laws in depth. These can be complicated and difficult to understand by those who wish to obtain a Green Card or a Work Visa.

They are also specialized lawyers who adapt to their environment and who are up to date on any political changes that may take place.

Thus, relying on an expert immigration lawyer helps to avoid problems, mistakes and issues that could hurt the immigrant. They can also guide the immigrant in order to take advantage of any changes to the legislation that could be advantageous to them.

Sometimes, applicants may fill their own documents and records, but this is not often the case. There are specific procedures that require legal representation.

Never fall for the publicity of a law firm or of a private lawyer

A website, a TV or yellow pages add will not show you everything you need to know about a lawyer or how trustworthy they are. Publicity is, doubtlessly, an excellent strategy, but the client must make sure that they know their lawyer first. Make an appointment, make questions, and make sure to be certain of their skills and competency to take up your case.

Immigration Lawyer

If you are confronted with an immigration problem, you quickly become aware of how complicated United States immigration law can be. Depending upon the problem, resolving it can take a significant amount of time, effort, and funds. A qualified immigration attorney can provide you with the information and assistance that you need to quickly and satisfactorily resolve your immigration issue, with a minimum of stress and worry, and at a reasonable cost.

Law Firm can help you with nearly all immigration matters, from temporary visas, both family-based and business-based, green cards, family-based immigration, marriage-based immigration to citizenship applications and fiance visas

Immigration Overview

Many applicants dealing with immigration matters do not realize that immigration lawyers do more than fill out forms. You can harm your case by handling things yourself, and you may not get a second chance. Immigration law is complex, and the way in which it is applied to a specific case can be complicated and nuanced.

Temporary Visas

More than 40 non-immigrant or temporary visas permit foreign nationals to come into the country for a specific purpose and a set period of time. A visitor traveling into the U.S. on a certain visa needs to meet the visa requirements. Sometimes a foreign national can change from one status to another. For example, a person who is here on a tourist visa will need to change their non-immigrant status through USCIS if they decide that they want to go to college in the U.S. There are certain non-immigrant visas that prevent you from applying for a change of status, which may be something to consider if you want to have this option. An immigration attorney can advise you on whether and how to change your status.

Green Cards

Immigrant visas and green cards may be based on employment in the U.S. or on a family relationship to a U.S. citizen or a green card holder. In the family-based visa category, for example, visas for immediate relatives may be obtained by spouses, children under age 21, parents, and adopted orphans of U.S. citizens who are a minimum age of 21. There is no limit on the number of these visas that can be granted in a certain year. Visas based on family relationships can be acquired by the unmarried children of citizens older than age 21 and their minor children, spouses or minor children or unmarried older children of legal permanent residents, siblings of U.S. citizens and their underage children if the citizen is at least age 21, and married children of U.S. citizens and their children or spouses.

IMMIGRATION LAW FIRM

provide the following core services:

As immigration lawyers, we advise you about the right type of immigration applications for you and your family that have the best chance of success or have the fastest government processing times.

immigration lawyers prepare your immigration applications so that they have the best chance of success.

immigration lawyers in Canada are your legal representatives with the government throughout the process.

immigration lawyers prepare you for interviews during the application process and at the border entry point.

Do you want to apply for permanent residency?

A permanent resident is allowed to stay and work in any job for the rest of their life. A new immigrant is required to become a permanent resident before they can become a citizen after 3 to 4 years.

Steps to apply for visa for permanent residency in Canada if you do not have a family

For most people who do not have close family members, they will apply for permanent residence in one of two ways.

You can make a permanent resident application through a provincial government program called a “PNP” – Provincial Nominee Program. Each province has the power to select immigrants and each province has their own requirements.

You can apply for permanent residency through the Express Entry program of the Federal government.

What is “Express Entry”?

If you are not applying through a Provincial program, then you are likely going to apply through the express entry system of the federal government. There are two steps that need to be done to assess if you will be given permanent residency through the Express Entry system.

Immigration Help

I need to know which immigration forms to use.

that’s the US Citizenship and Immigration Services website. On the left side of the screen is a “Find it Fast” box.  Click the drop-down menus to find out which forms you need. If you’re still not sure which forms you need, you might need to get help from an immigration lawyer or another person who’s authorized to help you.

I need help filling out my immigration forms.

Anyone can help you put your information into your immigration forms.  What’s important is that this person – a friend, your pastor, a teacher, a relative – should only write or translate what you tell him to.  Your helper cannot give you advice on what to say.  That can cause problems for you later.  If you need advice, be sure you’re getting it from the people authorized by the U.S. government to help you.

Who can help me fill out my forms?

A lawyer or an accredited representative from the list kept by the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) can help you. Getting help from someone who’s not qualified to give you legal advice – like a notario – can be worse than not getting any help.  Sometimes, even advice from a friend who means well can hurt your immigration status. If you need advice or help, get it from someone who is authorized by the U.S. government to help you.

I need to find out if USCIS has my forms.

You will get a receipt from USCIS when you turn in your paperwork. Keep it! It proves that USCIS received your application or petition. You will need the receipt to check on the status of your application.

I need someone to talk to USCIS for me. USCIS calls this “representing” me.

You can talk on your own behalf. You may not need someone to represent you. It’s not required. If you want someone to represent you, you need someone who’s authorized by USCIS to represent you. Only lawyers and accredited representatives may charge a fee to help you.

Things You Should Know Before Hiring a US Immigration Lawyer

Looking for a good U.S. immigration lawyer is not always an easy task. Although there are a myriad immigration attorneys you can choose from in America, knowing who to hire is often a difficult decision.

That in mind, here’s what you should know before choosing a U.S. immigration lawyer to represent your case. The more you know about how to hire an attorney, the easier it will be to make the right decision if you need help filing for naturalization, filing a family based petition or fighting for your rights as an immigrant.

While hiring an experienced attorney to handle immigration matters is recommended, working with a professional is not a requirement if you believe you can represent yourself in front of the authorities.

There are many people who come to the U.S. and choose to represent themselves in immigration cases. Sometimes they succeed and sometimes they do not. In any case, if you prefer not to hire a U.S. immigration lawyer, you should know that you don’t legally have to.

Hiring a non attorney to assist with your paperwork is an option

If you’re not comfortable with the idea of hiring a lawyer, but need assistance, you have the option of hiring a non-attorney. Paralegals, immigration consultants and other professionals working in the immigration field may be able to help you with certain matters, like type your paperwork.

Posted byPosted inLegal

Pros to Refinancing Home Renovation Loans

How To Plan A Renovation (Without Going Crazy)

Back on the subject of renovations!

After we revealed our new renovation project a little while ago, quite a few of you wrote and asked that we share our planning process for the renovation… That totally surprised me because let’s be honest, the planning stage isn’t the sexiest stage, and I had wondered whether you guys would want me to HURRY UP and share the house all made over. If you’re one of those people, you’ll be happy to know that it’s all coming together fairly quickly, with Ben and the team ploughing on to create something really cool. I’ll be sharing the plans and progress with you shortly, but in the meantime, for those of you who asked I present you… the ins and outs of planning a renovation! Let me first start by saying that obviously, every renovation is different, which is what makes it so fun (and challenging!). So what I’m sharing here is the process we used to plan our renovation, and I think they apply to most renovations!

WORK OUT A BUDGET

The first place to start when planning your renovation is… BUDGET! How much money you want to spend will determine what you are able to do – are you simply doing a general pretty up with a new coat of paint, or are you doing a full-blown remodel? When we started, the first thing we did was work out how much money we could afford to spend, factoring the cost of the property and how much we had/wanted to borrow. Because we are doing a full remodel, with a new level and a complete overhaul, straight away we knew that the budget would be tight, and we would be doing everything we could to create bespoke-inspired style on a budget. That’s the bit I’m most inspired to share with you!

GATHER INSPIRATION

Now, the fun part! Time to put together some ideas for how you want your space to look and feel once it’s done. To do this, we spent time putting together ideas and pulling imagery that reflected both the structural elements we wanted to see as well as the decor. My main focus at first was the decor but it was really great to be guided by Ben through the structural things like space and orientation. I created some mood boards and have added to them throughout the process, adding DIYs, landscaping ideas and pretty much everything that inspires me.

CREATE & REFINE YOUR SCOPE

The next thing we did was to refine the ideas into actual elements that we wanted to see, designing the space and the elements that would be in it. This became a bit of a wish list for the house, which is essentially a scope of works. At this point, it’s a good idea to get an idea of the broad costs associated with your plans, and one way to do that is to get in touch with a builder or consult an online guide. For us, the original scope came in over budget (hello renovating!) so we tweaked some of the things we wanted and focused on our key priorities like light, space and yield. This stage will often be a process of going back and forth but it’s worth it to get it right

DESIGN THE SPACE

Once you’ve finalised your scope, it’s time for design! Depending on the project, you might need detailed drawings like layouts and cross-sections. You can develop drawings for using an architect, but that said, depending on the scale of your renovation you don’t always need drawings. The bigger and more complex the project the more you should consider drawings. A builder can often do a renovation for you without them just going by eye and communication – although in this case you often won’t get the perfect finish (but it might be worth it if your money is tight). Luckily for us, Ben and his team created drawings for the new design in literally no time, admittedly taking the headache/cost out of the process and meaning we could condense this stage into just a few days.  They created plans (flat layouts) and elevations of the whole house and even sketch up (real life) models of the outside, bathrooms and kitchen/living/dining space in a very short amount of time.  *You may have to submit your drawings to the council/authorities at this stage, something we didn’t have to do because the house had an existing approval on it – something that was both a blessing and a curse

How To Start Your House Renovation

Are you thinking of renovating or extending your home but don’t know where to start? Or perhaps you are looking at purchasing a new property and you’re not sure whether you will be able to turn it into your dream home? Envisaging the fantastic possibilities is exciting. But, even if you have built before, working out where to start with a house renovation can be daunting.

Check whether there are any restrictions on development

This is a very important threshold question.  A regulatory restriction on changing the look of, or extending, the property can turn house renovation plans on their head.  It is better to know whether there are any regulatory restrictions from the outset, so you don’t end up wasting time and money on a project that will not be permitted.

Visit your local Council offices and talk to one of the Council planners about what you can and can’t do under the relevant planning scheme.  We also recommend that you talk to an officer from the Council’s building department, as in some cases there are building restrictions that you need to be aware of.  For example, we recently completed a renovation where the owner was not aware that there was a set back restriction under the building regulations – which the Council’s planning department had (unhelpfully) failed to mention because it was dealt with by the building department.

Are there any restrictions on the property’s title?

Check the property’s title to check whether any restrictions on development have been registered on it.  For example, a restrictive covenant that places restrictions on building material or on the size of the floor plan.  Also, check for easements that might affect the size and layout of an extension.

If you are planning a ground floor extension, are any relevant reports available?

Check whether any preliminary reports, such as soil tests and contour surveys, have already been prepared.  The results from these reports can have a significant effect on the design and cost of a ground floor extension.  For example, if the property is on poor quality soil, the foundations may need to go deeper than normal.

Preparing Your Home and Yourself for Major Renovations

You’re smart to have decided to contract out your major home project. Remodeling a kitchen or bathroom, building an addition, or totally remodeling your home are all jobs that extend far beyond the skill level of most homeowners

If you have ever survived an arduous do-it-yourself project, finding a contractor may give you a sense of relief, as you envision yourself telling the contractor what to do and then having it magically done for you.

But while your physical labor will be minimal, a different kind of work is involved: preparing yourself, preparing your home, and dealing with your contractor. Let this guide ease your home’s transition into a gorgeous sanctuary that you will love for many years to come.

There is a season for everything, and some seasons are better than others for major remodeling projects. For most exterior house projects, such as painting or deck-building, temperate seasons such as late spring, summer, and early fall are best. For roofing projects, the middle of the summer provides the longest stretch of dry weather. Interior projects can be done at any time of year, as they are independent of the weather.

Should You Stay or Should You Go?

The timeline for building that addition is eight weeks. The timeline for your once-in-a-lifetime trip to Europe: eight weeks. Like peanut butter and chocolate, they just go together, right?

Things to Know Before Starting a Home Renovation

You might be thinking of renovating your home by doing it yourself or hiring an interior design firm like Interiors Remembered, Inc. to tackle the project for you. Either way, there are some things you should consider and be prepared for before starting your renovation.

What Exactly are You Renovating?

The first thing to think about before you start your home renovation is what exactly you want to upgrade. It could be a few different things such as making the rooms more functional, knocking down walls for a bigger area, or just need an updated look.

Freely Express Your Ideas

This is YOUR renovation. Always clarify exactly what you want and ask as many questions as you need to feel comfortable moving forward. Start by setting goals and making a list of things you want to achieve, any questions you have, and how to properly move forward.

Know What to Expect Next

Another benefit of working with a firm on your home’s renovation is that they are pros, they have done this before and know what to expect next in the plan.

Don’t Be Scared!

We understand that you might be afraid to jump into such a big project like renovating your home. But now is the time to plan what you want and tackle it, without fear! If you are working with our interior design firm, you are in good hands! We will help you navigate through the entire process, from talking to you about what you want, planning on how to turn your vision into reality, and all of the steps it will take, especially your timeline and budget.

Things to Consider Before Borrowing For Your Home Renovation Project

Home renovation projects can easily snowball, and there are multiple ways out there to finance the undertaking. To help you assess the financial viability of your remodelling project, below we discuss why you might find borrowing for a renovation project helpful, as well as some precautions before you knock on the bank’s door.

Renovation loans can boost your returns

Aside from enabling people to get one step closer to their dream homes, renovation loans can also help investor-minded homeowners to boost the returns on their home remodeling projects. This is especially true if the property was bought at a depressed value for some reason (old, flooded, burnt, etc.), and needs a face-lift to prepare for a fix-and-flip.

you will probably run out of money even before you notice any difference. Effectively, you are unlikely to recoup any meaningful returns because your property probably looks the same, and it can only sell for about the same price that you purchased it for. Considering the time and effort you put towards the renovation and the transaction costs, this sounds like a bad deal.

Watch out for interest costs that eat out your returns

However, borrowing to do a larger-scale project isn’t always the best idea, especially if your property is already functional and the nature of the renovation is for luxury. This is because renovation tends to have a diminishing marginal return as the project gets more expensive. For example, let’s say you can do either a S$30,000 or a S$50,000 kitchen renovation project. If you are financing the project with 100% loan, then the total interest costs you will incur are S$2,269 and S$3,782, respectively, with a difference of S$1,513 in incremental interest cost

However, you should carefully investigate whether a S$50,000 kitchen can recoup more profit than a S$30,000 one to justify the S$1,500 cost. This is because high-end features and functionalities become more personalised, and a potential buyer may not value certain things like expensive materials and built-in dishwashers in the first place. Your buyer will pay you more than your cost if and only if the renovation work is at least as good as (if not better than) what they would’ve done on their own anyway.

Plastic Surgery Risks, Complications

How can I heal faster from plastic surgery?

Average recovery periods can be improved with proper preparation and aftercare

Cosmetic surgery can help ensure you look your best, giving you a more youthful-looking appearance, an enhanced figure, or fixing perceived imperfections. However, it’s important to remember that the healing process is an essential part of the journey to a better you. There are things you can do to promote faster healing and ensure the best results from your surgery.

Tips to help aid faster healing:

  • Protect your skin from the sun – Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more.
  • Take pain medication if needed – It’s not necessary to be a hero, so take any prescribed pain medications. Be careful though. “It is important to avoid over-the-counter medicines that could affect blood clotting for at least two weeks after your surgery, such as aspirin, Motrin, vitamin E, or herbal medicines,” according to the Smart Beauty Guide by the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons.
  • Keep moving, but skip heavy workouts – Take short, light walks as this can reduce pain and promote healing. However, vigorous workouts should be avoided for at least 8 weeks.
  • Drink lots of H2O – Water is nature’s ultimate healer after any cosmetic surgery.
  • Take measures to reduce swelling – Ice packs or cold compresses can help reduce swelling. Use them regularly, especially during the first 3 days after surgery. In the case of any facial cosmetic surgery, you can also sleep with your head elevated.
  • Keep your skin clean – Make sure to cleanse regularly – being careful to avoid irritating wounds – to avoid build-up in the pores, which can inhibit healing and cause breakouts.
  • No smoking – Smoking is one the worst things you can do after surgery. “Nicotine causes blood vessels to constrict…decreasing the blood supply to the tissues…Tissues that are not receiving an adequate blood supply may not heal correctly, which increases the occurrence of complications,” according to the Smart Beauty Guide.

Listen to your doctor, not the internet

If you’re looking for advice on scar care after cosmetic surgery or wondering if you really need to stay out of the hot tub when you’re already 3 weeks post-op (spoiler alert: you do), you might be tempted to go by what RealSelf has to say. Don’t be: even fairly trustworthy online sources of cosmetic surgery information should not replace instructions from your own cosmetic surgeon, who knows your medical history and all the details of your actual procedure. Call your cosmetic surgeon with any concerns or questions you have, and follow the advice they provide.

Don’t take any herbs, supplements or medications without your doctor’s permission

Many normally safe products can be dangerous or inhibit healing after cosmetic surgery. For example, ibuprofen (Advil), green tea, tumeric, and other everyday anti-inflammatory substances can increase risk for bleeding after surgery. Other herbs and medications may interact with anesthesia or pain medications. Your cosmetic surgeon will give you a list of items to avoid. The general rule is to avoid “banned substances” for at least 2 weeks before surgery and 2 weeks after, but follow your surgeon’s protocol.

Take All Medication

No matter how good you may feel or how well you can tolerate pain, take your medicine as directed. Do not miss any doses of your pain medication. Pain increases your blood pressure. High blood pressure can cause more bruising and create complications with your recovery.

Don’t Lounge Around

Many of the medicines and narcotics that you have received during your surgery and are taking during your recovery can cause constipation. To prevent constipation, you need to get up and get moving. Take short walks around the house and increase your fluid intake to prevent constipation and complications.

Maintain a Healthy Diet

It is not uncommon to experience changes with your appetite after surgery. However, you need to continue to eat and maintain a healthy diet. Eat lots of protein and carbohydrates. You need to feed your body properly so that it can heal and repair itself to speed up your recovery. If you decide to take any vitamins, let your doctor know prior to taking them.

Rest

Resting after surgery – getting good sleep during your recovery after cosmetic plastic surgery

  • Allow your body to heal and get good nutrition and rest.
  • Recognise that rest may be difficult at first in the early stages of post-operation healing but will get better.
  • A lack of comfortable sleep at first is expected and can leave you feeling emotional after surgery; questioning your decisions to have surgery is also very common.
  • Know what to expect in terms of emotions and have good support around you (supportive friends and family who understand why you chose to have your procedure).
  • Make your post-op room as comfortable as possible. Read Tips for at-home recovery.

How we help you with surgery recovery after plastic surgery

  • We go the extra mile to ensure you are not only prepared for your surgery, but you’re prepared for your recovery period as well.
  • We have a Rapid Recovery Package to help you during the initial healing and surgery recovery period.
  • We provide follow-up visits as part of our service and these are included in your quote (be sure you DO book and attend all follow-up appointments are recommended including annual follow-up check ups with your Surgeon).

But it’s important you don’t rush your recovery.

  • Surgery is a major event.
  • You want to allow your body to heal well by giving it adequate rest and recovery time, and nurturing your body and mind during the process of plastic surgery recovery.

Nutritional tips for what to eat after surgery: greens, fruits and veggies (ask your surgeon)

  • Consuming fresh fruit and vegetables and maintaining a balanced diet before and after your surgery ensures your body is receiving the vitamins and nutrients it needs to aid recovery.
  • Almonds, fruit, lean meats, whole grains, yogurt and seafood are all high in vitamins E, D, C and A, iron, protein, fibre and zinc.
  • Foods containing these nutrients assist in wound healing and forming scar tissue, as well as promoting growth of new blood cells.
  • Immunity, bone healing and repair of soft tissue is also aided by the above vitamins and nutrients.
  • Also make sure you’re drinking lots of water to keep your fluids up, aim for at least 1.5 litres per day.
  • Avoid alcohol and other intoxicating substances to maximise your healing capacity.

Mobile Auto Repair Shops Make Car Repairs Simple And Convenient

Automotive Services You Can Count On

Highly-trained automotive mechanics take great pride in supplying: Engine Repair, Brake Repair, Transmission Repair, and Auto Electrical Service. Each of reliable specialists undergo extensive automotive repair training to meet all your auto repair needs.

focus on Auto Repair, Engine Repair, Brake Repair, Transmission Repair and Auto Electrical Service, we also provide a long range of other auto repair services listed on our services page.

teams of highly trained and certified technicians are here to serve you. From oil changes to complex computer diagnostics, staff is here to do what it takes to maintain your car. are also certified to maintain new car warranties, so you can rely on us to be your one-stop service center.

Auto Repair

The staff is friendly, honest and knowledgeable and they do quality work. Today, I was blown away by them as I was working long hours (from home) on an initiative related the to CARES Act but also needed to have my car serviced.

The team at Auto went above and beyond and picked up my vehicle from my garage, took it to the shop for the work, then pulled it back into my garage when they were done. Not only that, but they were diligent to ensure safety measures were in place, wearing masks, gloves, and spraying down and wiping all surfaces that they were in contact with

4 WHEEL ALIGNMENT INCLUDES:

* COMPLETE INSPECTION OF ALL FRONT AND REAR SUSPENSION AND STEERING COMPONENTS.

* ADJUST CASTER, CAMBER AND TOE IN OF FRONT AND REAR END TO FACTORY SPECIFICATIONS.

* STRAIGHTEN STEERING WHEEL IF NEEDED.

DOES NOT INCLUDE REPLACEMENT OF ANY WORN OR DAMAGED PARTS. MOST VEHICLES. MUST MENTION SPECIAL.

Auto Repair also specializes in Emissions Repair, steering alignment, fuel pumps, shocks and struts, alternators, brakes, oil changes, battery service and tune ups. priority is to have a truly satisfied customers.

Contactless Service & Car Sanitization After Service

All mobile mechanic services are now contactless to help keep everyone healthy. Watch from your window while mechanics work in your driveway. Never make contact with anyone or anything except for your repaired and sanitized vehicle

To Mobile or Not to Mobile?

That is the question.  Here is the answer: Always use a mobile mechanic. And if you’re choosing a mobile mechanic why not choose best mobile mechanic? auto repair shops just cannot compete with the Best Mobile Mechanic in the area, so why even do a search for auto repair shops near me?  These auto repair shops can’t compete on work quality, talent, or the ability to give you a fair price. You could look up auto mechanic reviews or try to find good mechanics in the area with search results that take you to auto repair shops that are slow, have less than superior service, and talent, and prices that make your eyes bulge, or you could just come to me, the best mobile mechanic, and I’ll give you rapid service, superior work, the utmost in talent and reasonable prices.

Rapid Service

One of the reasons I am the top selection for local mobile mechanic is because of my rapid service. The service that I provide for your vehicle is fast, and the time it takes for the service to start is quick. Auto repair shops put you on a waiting list and have multiple other vehicles they are providing service to.  When using the best mobile mechanic, there are no waiting lists and your vehicle is not one of many that my focus is split by. My full focus and your name never going on a waiting list is the top-notch rapid service I will provide. This one of the many reasons why you should bring your vehicle to me overtaking it one of the local auto repairs shops around.

Superior Work

What else does the Best Mobile Mechanic in the area offer?  I offer superior work on your vehicle utilizes my variety of skills that I have been certified in by the top auto mechanic certification companies in the United States. These certifications give me the tools necessary to service your vehicle at a level that exceeds the level that a local auto mechanic shop could give your vehicle. Avoid wasting time with anything less the best service your vehicle can get, if you’re searching find a mechanic near me and you’re in the area, search no longer, you have come to the right place.  The work I will do on your vehicle will have you no longer need to search the internet for local auto mechanic reviews auto mechanic reviews because you will have found your preferred auto mechanic already.

Talented Mechanic

Half a decade of experience at top auto repair shops in the nation, nationally accredited by auto mechanic certifications, and a ton of knowledge about a variety of different vehicle makes and models allows me to be the Best Mobile Mechanic and makes me more talented than the rest of the mobile mechanics and auto repair shops mechanics that are local. Give me a call, I’ll come to you anywhere in the area where you need your vehicle repaired at and I’ll prove to you just how talented of a mobile mechanic that I am. There will be no more asking friends for suggestions or browsing for good mechanics in my area because you will be using my services any time you need auto repair and so will all your friends after you tell them how great my auto repair services are.

AUTO REPAIR

“CAN YOU FIX IT TODAY?”

know your time is valuable. That’s why are conveniently located near you, Most truck or car maintenance services can be done while you wait. Many repairs can be completed in as little as one day. Simple or complex, will get your auto repairs done quickly and get you back on the road in no time.

“HONESTLY, HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?”

Since 2009, Auto Repair has provided area customers with easy to understand estimates before beginning any work. Ask about options to keep auto repair costs low or upgrades to keep your car running at peak performance.

DISCOVER WHAT WE DO!

4×4 Services, Alignment, Brakes, Car & Truck Care, Domestic Cars & Trucks, Electric and Hybrid Vehicle , Electrical Services, Electronic Services, Engine & Transmission, Engine Maintenance, General Services, Heating and Cooling Services, Ignition Interlock Systems , Import Cars & Trucks, Miscellaneous Services, Quick Lube Services, Tires, Towing, Transmission Services and Undercar Services

Summer Heat Takes a Toll on Your Car’s Battery

If you’re feeling the summer heat, so is your car’s battery. Contrary to popular belief, summer highs rather than winter

Automotive Marketing Ideas

When it comes to marketing ideas to grow your auto repair, dealership, bodywork, auto parts and accessories, or car wash business, advertising advice that works for other enterprises may fall short. The problem with the automotive industry is that people don’t generally tend to think about your services until they suddenly need them. So how do you make sure that yours is the first business they find when they start looking? Here are ten marketing ideas tailored specifically to the automotive sales and service industry that will help drive customers right to your door.

Establish and Optimize Your Web Presence

This seems obvious, so why do so many auto repair shops and the like still refuse to join the party? Studies show that up to 97% of those looking to buy, fix, or customize a car start their journey online. Whether they get referrals from Facebook friends, check out directories of auto dealers, or simply Google “auto repairs near me,” the Internet is where they’re looking. The bottom line? If you don’t have a strong web presence, you’re not likely to be found. As a minimum, you should have a website, a blog, social media business pages, and an email marketing list, all optimized with keywords and phrases that customers might use to search for you.

Network, Network, Network

Establish relationships with others in your industry. If you do auto repair, let local dealerships know you’re available to take overflow repairs and services. Word of mouth referrals from salespeople at a dealership can really boost your repair or customization business, and a strategic partnership with a dealership or rental company can keep your car wash running when times are slow. Build as many connections as you can with others in your industry – even the competition!

Incentivize Referrals

Everyone loves a freebie, even if it’s something small. No one’s going to recommend you if you provide poor service anyway, but sometimes even the best service doesn’t get the recognition it deserves. Your customers might just need a little prompting to promote you to their friends. Let them know how much you value their business (and that of their friends and family) with a little thank you gift or service. Invite them to like your Facebook page and sign up for newsletters and special offers by email. Remember, most people are skeptical when dealing with automotive businesses, so a recommendation from a friend is a powerful thing.

Be Accessible

When it comes to automotive sales, repair work, and customization, not only do people look for you online, but they do most of the research and decision making before they even come in to your business. Provide plenty of information on your website, blog, and social media pages about your products and services. Make sure your phone number and contact information are prominently featured, along with a way for customers to ask questions via web form or email. Respond promptly and courteously to any inquiries you get, without being pushy. As a bonus tip you should keep track of and collect every call and email so you can follow up the with customers in the future.

Picking The Best Water Testing Based On Water Usage And Hardness Levels

Drinking Water Quality

as established a comprehensive and robust sampling and monitoring programme to ensure our water quality from source to tap. Water samples are collected from reservoirs, waterworks and distribution systems and tested at Water Quality Laboratory

The quality of our drinking water is regulated by the Environmental Public Health (EPH) (Water Suitable for Drinking) (No.2) Regulations 2019. The drinking water standards set out under the EPH Regulations were based on the WHO Guidelines for Drinking-water Quality.

makes continuous effort to maintain drinking water quality at the highest possible level.

Drinking water is normally clear but very occasionally may appear discoloured or contain particles. This may be caused by essential maintenance operations such as the routine cleaning of water tanks, flushing of service pipes in buildings and testing of fire hydrants. However, there are some instances where discoloured water can occur as a result of internal fittings and installations in our homes.

Why do customers sometimes encounter discoloured water?

Common causes of discoloured water occur due to maintenance operations such as routine cleaning of water tanks and the flushing of service pipes in buildings.

Water Safety

Families of students attending Department of Education (DOE) schools and staff of those schools should rest assured that our drinking water is of the highest quality in the world.

water meets or exceeds all Federal and State standards.

The City’s water is tested over 600,000 times each year.

The DOE works with other City agencies to make sure our students have safe drinking water in schools.

water is virtually lead-free when it is delivered from the City’s upstate reservoir system. However, the water can absorb lead from fixtures, faucets, and fittings. This is most likely to happen when water has not been run for several hours. You can minimize the potential for lead exposure by running your tap for 30 seconds, or until the water gets noticeably colder, before using the water for drinking or cooking.

Water Testing

State law requires us to test the water for lead every five years. In the 2016–2017 school year, the water in every public school was tested for lead

The findings were as follows:

The vast majority of test results were not elevated.

Ninety-two percent of our fixtures system-wide tested below guidance.

If a drinking or cooking outlet tested above guidance, the outlet was immediately turned off and the equipment was replaced.

The affected outlets are kept out of service until follow-up testing shows those outlets no longer have elevations.

Every elevated fixture from this round of testing has been remediated.

Standard Response Protocol

If a building has even one water outlet that tests above the action level (which means it contains greater than 15 parts per billion (ppb) of lead), the DOE implements its standard response protocol.

Buying a Home With a Well: What You Need to Know

Things To Consider When Buying A Home With A Well’

Buyers considering homes in rural settings will often encounter homes for sale that get their water from wells. With homes drawing on municipal sources, there is an assumption that the water in the home will be readily available and meet the safety standards of the municipality

But with well water, you cannot make any assumptions about its purity. Beyond water quality, other problems can arise with wells that you should be aware of, and check for, before you agree to purchase a home.

Whether buying or selling a home, there are always questions that come up regarding testing the water when a property is serviced by a private well. If you are purchasing a home that is serviced by a well and not by public water you better make darn sure that you have it tested as part of your contingency of sale!

When you are testing the water, you are going to want to do what is known as quality and quantity test. Both of these tests are equally important as you want to make sure the water is safe but also that you will have enough to service the home properly.

Do your research about water in the area.

Groundwater is a shared resource across broad areas, so problems that affect one home will often affect many, many more. You can research known water issues in an area through the EPA, and you can ask your Realtor of any known water problems in the area. Once you know of common problems, you can be on the lookout for them

What You Don’t Know About Well Water Could Hurt You

How clean, and safe, is that water? Short answer: It depends. But new research suggests those wells deliver water tainted with a range of pollutants. Some leaked from dry cleaning operations. Yet far more wells soak up, and deliver to taps, fertilizer that’s been building up in soil and water over generations of modern farming.

But it’s not up to regulators from agencies in Topeka to test private well water quality. That falls to individual well owners. With little to no government oversight, some public health officials worry that’s creating a system where far too many people are left vulnerable to potential cancer-causing pollutants and toxins.

The main culprit is a dramatic increase in the amount of nitrate. It’s a byproduct of the Green Revolution of the 1960s that turbo-charged modern farming toward greater yields, especially the use of chemical fertilizers.

Farmers learned that soil laced with extra nitrogen could squeeze more  bushels from an acre of land. But not all that nitrogen stays put or gets absorbed in wheat, corn, sorghum and soybeans. Some runs off into streams, or trickles into underground reservoirs.

High levels of nitrogen in water can lead to shortness of breath. It can even cause death in young children and older adults. The federal Safe Drinking Water Act, which only governs public drinking water, limits nitrate levels to less than 10 milligrams per liter.

HOW TO PROPERLY USE A POND WATER TEST KIT

Those of us in the business understand that in spite of our best efforts a customer’s pond paradise may turn into a nightmare if they do not perform some basic maintenance tasks. To make sure our customers’ ponds remain a welcome retreat from an otherwise stressful world we educate them about proper feeding amounts, how to flush the filter or rinse the pads, how to keep away predators, proper circulation, and basic plant and fish care tips.

With all the great things we do for our customers there is one piece of valuable ammo we often fail to arm them with. A simple water test kit is not only an added sale and a precursor to additional treatment purchases but it can be the first line of defense in a customer’s battle for water quality and a healthy pond.

With so very many choices in test kits, parameters tested, and testing procedures available it is no wonder that some pond retailers and installers are reluctant to make a recommendation to their customers.

Fortunately, most water quality experts agree on a handful of tests that every industry professional and pond owner should perform.

AMMONIA – Ammonia is formed when fish waste and other organic debris (leaves, grass, dead fish, or frogs, etc) begin to decompose. This decomposition releases toxic Ammonia into the pond water. A test reading of Zero Ammonia is best but not always possible.

NITRITE – Nitrifying bacteria work on the Ammonia and break it down to Nitrite. Nitrite is also highly toxic to your pond fish and the ideal reading should again be Zero.

NITRATE – Eventually Nitrite is broken down further into Nitrate, which is less toxic to your pond fish although still bad enough in higher concentrations. Ideal reading would be zero. NOTE: Many industry experts suggest testing for both Nitrite and Nitrate in your pond but others believe testing for Nitrite is sufficient.

pH – Testing the pH of your pond is critical according to many experts. The ideal pH reading in your pond is debatable by many but is often considered to be 7.0 – 7.5 although pH will vary throughout the day.

KH – Carbonate Hardness = Total Alkalinity which is different than pH. Carbonate Hardness is the ability of the pond water to stabilize the pH in the system. According to Dave Jones, owner of The Pond Professional in Woodstock GA, KH should be at least 100 PPM. Ideal KH readings are between 100-200 PPM.

PHOSPHATES – Phosphates are usually introduced into a pond thru fish waste and are a nutrient that algae require to flourish. Algae, like other plants, require many nutrients to grow so the presence of Phosphates alone does not ensure an algae problem is imminent. A reading of Zero PPM is ideal although many ponds can have much higher concentrations with no algae issues present.

Window Cleaning Tricks Of The Trade

Window Cleaning

window cleaning service can start on the inside or the outside, which ever will best accommodate your schedule.

Things You Should Know Before Hiring a Window Cleaner

Are the workers employees or subcontractors?

Have the workers undergone criminal background checks?

Have the workers undergone drug screening?

Does the company offer a guarantee?

These are important questions to ask so you know who is in your home. Some companies hire subcontractors who do not meet the above standards. If damage, an accident or theft occurs, you could be left with the financial responsibility of repairs, doctor’s bills or replacement of stolen items.

Of course you want your house to look great, who doesn’t? When clean windows, make them spotless. Not only will the beauty of your home or business truly be allowed to shine, but when the job done, you might forget you have windows at all.

How To Get Spotlessly Clean Windows

When I was a kid, my mother would often quip at the sight of large, multistory homes: “Yeah, but who’s going to clean all those windows?” In her mind, she was probably imagining one person painstakingly cleaning each window the way she did around our home. She would mix 1 gallon of water with 2 tablespoons of white vinegar, fill a spray bottle, squeegee the liquid off each window and wipe the glass dry with newspaper, a process to which she, and subsequently, we, strictly adhered.

How Often?

To begin,how often windows should be cleaned. “It’s really up to consumers themselves,” she says. “Some people like to clean their windows every week on their own, and others are OK with having a professional come in and clean their windows inside and out, from top to bottom, twice a year. It’s one of those things that can fall into spring and fall cleaning.”

Dirty trick: Lewis suggests avoiding cleaning windows on a hot, sunny day. “Everything dries so much faster, and it’s going to streak,” she says. “So we recommend doing it on a cloudy day.”

First Things First

To get started, Dorn says, it’s important to clear the window area of tchotchkes, knickknacks and any furniture that may get in the way of cleaning

Easy Solutions

Once the area is prepped, Lewis and her team advise ditching prepackaged bottled cleansers and mixing up a solution of warm water with a small squirt of dish soap. “Usually just a drop or two per gallon will do it,” she says. “Then grab a sponge and scrub down the windows, making sure to get into the corners and the creases and crevices of the window.” Next, clear away the solution with a squeegee and wipe dry with a clean towel.

HOMEMADE WINDOW CLEANING SOLUTION

Funny story, but first a disclaimer: do not judge me for this. I have now lived in my house for two years. My backyard is finally done, and that used to be my excuse as to why my windows were filthy. Why would I spend my time and effort to clean my windows when the backyard was dirt, ya know? Well, for Mother’s day, my hubby asked me what I wanted, and I told him that I wanted the windows professionally cleaned. He thought I was kidding. I wasn’t

Man, isn’t it funny how I can be totally thrifty in one area and then be sooooo lazy about washing my own windows for almost two years? My neighbor’s window guy came over and gave me a quote and it would have only been about $90.00 for the whole house (inside and out). My husband would not let me do it. Granted, I was just being lazy, and I totally knew it.

Here is the recipe that I used:

1 gallon of hot water (in a bucket)

1/2 cup white vinegar

1 t. of liquid dish soap

The windows were bad enough that they needed to be scrubbed with a scrub brush first with the solution. I used my husband’s car washing brush since it had a long pole attached to it. It came in handy to reach the top of the windows.

then used a squeegee to finish the job. Londyn (my three year old daughter) helped me. ? To prevent streaking, I wiped down the squeegee in between uses with paper towels.

Window Cleaning

well-trained and vetted cleaners will do a fantastic job in keeping your property’s windows bright and clean, ensuring that windows, frames and sills are cleaned professionally.

Professional Window Cleaners in Window

trained, highly experienced and well-prepared window cleaners will keep your glass streak-free and clear. teams use the most effective tools, detergents and methods to clean windows.

Expert Service At Competitive Rates

If you wonder why customers have given us a five-star rating, can tell you work really hard to deserve it:

Seven-days availability – Yes, you can book services at weekends without an extra charge! know you are busy, so we work around your tight schedule.

Budget-friendly rates – prices are fixed! never use bait and switch tactics to secure your business. do it through hard work and excellent results.

Experienced and trained – local teams have been cleaning windows for more than five years now. What’s more, all crew members are well-trained and prepared.

Top-rated local service – fantastic cleaning service is rated as one of the best in London by clients. Your compliments are well earned by our dedicated team.

Flexible booking appointments – You can pick a suitable date and time for our team of expert cleaners to visit your home. arrive always on time and fully prepared!

Pure water treatment – Currently this is the most advanced window cleaning approach. cleaners use a 22m-long pole made of strong carbon fibre material attached to a tank of purified water in our van. The technicians use this method to remove dirt, minerals and chemicals from your glass. Using this method allows us to reach windows up to four storeys from the ground.

Traditional window cleaning – The good old ladder-and-squeegee cleaning method is still preferred by hundreds of customers around London. Unlike the water-fed pole method, here window cleaners use detergents to get rid of dirt and chemicals from your glass. recommend this method to clean your domestic windows from the inside.

A Guide to Starting Your Own Profitable Window Cleaning Business

Starting a new career is exciting, but also worrisome: what if I choose the wrong path? Even more so, if you decide to go freelancing or start your own business, not only your professional life, but also finances and family life are at risk.

We understand how hard it is to make a 180-degree turn in your life, therefore we completed a detailed guide for those of you thinking about a career in window cleaning. Starting a new career is stressful, but we hope our guide will help you reach a well-thought-out decision.

You may think window cleaning is a lowly job with no decent pay and hours of boredom scrubbing someone’s dirty windows, but you’re mistaken. Window cleaning is a profession requiring expertise, courage, and passion. Some even call it a work of art: you are the artist, and the windows are your canvas.

Window washing involves the cleaning of windows, as well as decorative or lighting glass. It can be done manually, but often a variety of tools are used, especially if one is cleaning… a skyscraper’s windows.

Is window cleaning for me?

Window cleaning businesses are in high demand because people don’t like cleaning windows. It’s as simple as that. Also, sometimes it’s difficult or impossible to reach windows without special equipment or it takes too much time and money to clean the windows.