Author: benjamin

What Is The Role Of An Exterminator

Pest Control•by benjamin•Posted June 12, 2020June 12, 2020

Selecting a Pest Control Company

Pest problems arise from time to time that may require you to seek help controlling the pest from a professional. It can be daunting to choose a pest control company. Don’t rush into a decision. Consider talking with several companies before deciding on one. Even if your pest problem is urgent, take time to look for a reputable and knowledgeable company that meets your standards

Qualifications

Do technicians have current licenses? Is the license the correct classification for the job? You can verify licensing by calling your state pesticide regulatory office.

How does the company keep their staff informed of changes in regulations, products, techniques and safety?

Do they use Integrated Pest Management techniques?

Do they have a certified entomologist on staff?

Experience

How many years has the company been in business?

Do newly hired applicators train with more experienced employees?

How much experience does the company have with treating pest problems like yours?

Reputation

Ask family members, friends, coworkers, or neighbors for a recommendation.

Avoid relying on advertising for information about the company’s reputation.

Consider contacting the Better Business Bureau or the state pesticide regulatory office for information on recent violations, complaints, or unresolved issues.

Ask the company for customer references.

Value

Can the company offer an estimate for services in writing? Many offer free estimates.

Get estimates from more than one company and compare their rates and services.

Does the company require you to sign up for a long-term contract? If so, what are the long-term costs?

Is the company able to provide a guarantee for their work? What are the terms?

Tips For Choosing the Right Exterminator Service

It takes a combination of proper sanitation, preventive measures and good home maintenance practices for tenants, homeowners and landlords to keep household pests from their properties. Although you can keep most of these pests from your home, you might need the services of a pest control professional if a certain pest is hard to control or if you are experiencing extensive pest infestation.

Look for value and quality when selecting a pest control company just as you would with any other professional service. Find a competent company with reasonably-priced services, not to mention proper use of pesticides to prevent damages on your property and negative effects on your health.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A COMPETENT PEST CONTROL COMPANY

A List of References

The pest control company should provide you with a list of references. Its previous customers will let you know about their experience working with the given company. Request your prospective pest control service provider for at least three references.

Experience in the Industry

How long has the pest control company been offering the exterminator services in the local industry? Consider a company with at least two years working experience in offering pest fumigation services. Does the company have any pending complaints? Check with the States Office of the Attorney General, the States Agriculture Department, EPA or Better Business Bureau to find out.

Pesticide Labels Used and Application Rate

A good pest control company should be willing to share with you its business credentials such as labels of pesticides used to show application rates, processes, and any other important precautions.

Certified and Licensed Pesticide Professionals

Pest control service companies must be licensed and certified to offer the exterminator pest control services. Certified application professionals are tasked with direct supervision of licensed technicians and certified pest control applicators.

OTHER IMPORTANT FACTORS TO CONSIDER

If your home is often infested by a certain pest and non-chemical bug exterminator services have proven ineffective, you need to opt for routine pesticide applications. However, you do not need such services if the converse is true. Some pest control service providers offer service contracts to routinely treat infested structures for a specific bug.

Owners of warehouses that often receive cockroach-infested crates may find such contracts a necessity. Ideal pest control service contracts for residential homes only include pesticide application if there is actually a pest infestation but other control techniques have failed to work. Look out for local exterminator services that include periodic inspections for re-infestations.

Pest Professionals FAQ

What should a homeowner look for when selecting a pest professional, commonly called an exterminator?

A qualified and licensed pest management company that is a member of national, state or local pest management associations.

Ask friends and neighbors to recommend companies they have used successfully.

Buy value, not price.

Before signing a contract, be sure to fully understand the nature of the pest, the extent of the infestation, and the work necessary to solve the problem.

Find out if the company has liability insurance to cover any damages to your house or furnishings during treatment.

If a guarantee is given, know what it covers, how long it lasts, what you must do to keep it in force, and what kind of continuing prevention and management are necessary.

If you hire a pest control professional, are you guaranteed a pest-free home?

Pest control companies differ in their guarantees. If a guarantee is given, know what it covers, how long it lasts, what you must do to keep it in force, and what kind of continuing prevention and management are necessary. It is important that homeowners remain active participants before, during and after all pest control treatments. This type of vigilance helps the homeowner better understand their contract and possible guarantee, and helps the pest professional understand the homeowner’s expectations

HOW TO CHOOSE A GOOD PEST CONTROL COMPANY

Summertime in Arizona is definitely pest season. If you don’t want to be outside during this sweltering summer season, neither do the pests that try to infiltrate your home. More households call pest control companies during this time of year than any other season. However, not all pest control operations are created equal. It is important to do your research and window shop before going with just any pest control company in Mesa that is cheap. Finding an pest control exterminator in Mesa that is top notch, offers quality services, and isn’t greatly overpriced is very important. A poor pest control job could lead to more infestations and more money spent in the future.

Do they offer power spray?

Many pest control companies treat homes with something called a backpack sprayer. This small, somewhat wimpy pest control method is usually not enough to effectively prevent a deep infestation. A pest control company that offers power spraying may be the company you should go with. Power spraying the foundation of the home is the most effective way of treating it for pests. The intense pressure behind the power spraying hose penetrates rocks and soil around the home to effectively get all of the exterminating product as close to where pests may be burrowing as possible.

Do they offer granulate?

Power spraying is usually a preventative step- it does not necessarily kill the pests within a nest or colony. To get to the source of your pest problem, which is usually around the trunks of trees and roots of foliage, a reputable pest control company will use something called granulate. Granulate is a material that is applied to areas around trees, plants, gardens, and other spots where pests may initially get their source of food and water and where they might be breeding. A pest control company that offers granule treatment is usually a good choice.

Do they have good reviews?

Always trust verified reviews. If a customer is deeply unsatisfied with a company’s pest control services, the Internet will likely hear about it. Check the pest control business’ website for reviews, as well as review sites like Yelp, Better Business Bureau, or Google. Family Owned Pest Control is another good source for pest control company reviews

Do they offer wall treatments?

A complete and thorough prevention and exterminating pest control treatment will include in-wall treatments. Pests can infest the walls and roofing of your home fairly easily. Avoiding a wall treatment could make way for a massive and hard to control infestation. Look for a pest control company that offers in-wall treatments in which they dust a pest control product inside your walls via outlets from the outside. This will effectively kill any remaining pests trying to infest your home, and should be mandatory instead of optional.

Do they have the qualifications, reputation, and experience to perform a thorough extermination?

Look up information about the company or call them and ask. Do the pest control technicians all have current licenses? Are these licenses the correct license for the job they are performing? Does the company keep their staff informed of new and changed regulations and safety measures, as well as new products and techniques? Do they use IPM (integrated pest management) techniques on the job? Does the business have a certified entomologist on staff? Some of these question aren’t super important, but it can help in making a final decision between companies.

What to Consider in Hiring a Pest Control Professional

Sometimes it is better to hire a pest control professional than to try to do it yourself. This is particularly true if the pest problem is ongoing, if the infestation has become large, or if the products needed for control are only authorized for use by certified professionals

The Technician

Before allowing the pest control provider to enter your home, ask to see their identification, license, and certification, and check to ensure it is current. Almost every state requires that technicians be certified​ and that they participate in annual training to keep the license current. ​

The Company

Is the company bonded and insured? This can be important to both protect your property and protect against liability. Visit the company’s website. Does it appear professional? Is it knowledgeable? Do its values correspond with your own?

Knowledge

The technician, or sales representative, should be knowledgeable enough to answer your pest control questions. There may be a question or two that he does not know off-hand, and, if so, he should be willing to say he will find out and let you know. It is better to hear an honest “I don’t know, but I’ll find out,” than to be given wrong or made-up answers.

Professional Appearance

When the technician comes to your door, their uniform and overall appearance should be clean and professional. The truck, equipment, and chemicals should also provide you with a secure feeling of professionalism.

References

Before calling a pest control company, ask friends and neighbors for referrals. Check with your state pest control association, or visit the National Pest Management Association’s (NPMA) website for a state-by-state list of providers. It is always wise to check any company with the Better Business Bureau. If you did not receive any personal recommendations, you may want to ask the provider for references—and follow up with calls to the customers provided.

Price

The lowest price is not always the best deal. If a company says it will solve your problem in one service for $X, and your problem still exists after you’ve paid for that service, you haven’t saved any money. Instead, you will most likely need to start over with another service provider and end up paying a great deal more than if you had chosen quality over price the first time.

See Why The Coolest Parties In Town Are Now Held On A Party Bus

Events•by benjamin•Posted June 11, 2020June 11, 2020

How To Save Money When Booking Wedding Party Buses

Whether you are one of the couple who wishes to book a suitable party bus for his/her guests on the wedding, or a guest itself who wishes to make arrangements for your group, you need to know certain important points relating the transports.

Of course, you already know that party buses are highly cheap, secure and superb means of travel with your group. However, did you know that you can save yet more of your overall travel costs when you keep certain factors in mind?

Yes, this is true.

When you hire a wedding limo service or a party bus to travel, the charges incurred by the service providers depend on certain factors such as:

  • The number of guests
  • The time of the year
  • Difference between booking and traveling time
  • The kind of area to travel to
  • The type of vehicle
  • The day of the week (most of the times)
  • Extra services offered etc.

And it is important to keep all these factors well in your mind before you book your wedding party bus for the group.

What are the tips for saving money on a party bus?

The reality is that, if you’re not careful, renting a party bus can shake your bank account. Depending on your location, the limo renting prices can be a bit higher than in other areas. However, it’s your responsibility to ensure that you get high-quality services at an affordable price. Not all party bus services that are expensive, have the best services and not all cheaper limo companies offer poor services. Go for what is worth your money, but make sure you get quality services by the end of the day. The following tips will help you save some cash when hiring a best party bus or limo;

 Make sure you ask about what the price quote covers:

Many party busses customers mostly agree to price quotes even before knowing what they are paying for and end up paying for some costs that are not ideal for them. Therefore, when given the price by the party bus service provider, request for the pricing breakdown. This will help you in negotiating the price since you can remove some of the items you don’t need in your party. For instance, some limo rental companies might charge you for customization of the party bus, drinks offered and sometimes parking fee. If you don’t need all that you can always get rid of them and deduct their costs from the price quoted.

Avoid hiring party limos during busy seasons or days:

Normally, party busses or limousine companies charge according to seasons or days. For instance, weekends or during holidays the majority of the rental bus companies charge higher than on regular days when the demand for their limos is down. Off days and off-seasons are the best time to hire a party bus , if you are planning to make some savings. Here, the majority of the limo companies have offered, others even slash their prices, making it cheaper for you. However, days like Fridays to Sunday, hiring a party bus service could be a bit higher. On Mondays to Thursday, the party busses prices are down because the demand drops.

Choose the Services Which You Really Need

If they are charging too much apart from the rental and the tip of the driver then you might think to skip one or more services. If you think that you can get cheaper alcohol from the market then don’t ask them to provide it on the bus instead, bring your own. This way, you’ll have all the fun without having to pay anything extra. You can look for other such things as well which you can manage on your own without having to pay a considerable amount to the bus service.

Make your party bus booking early enough:

Typically, when you hire a party bus rental in Toronto while in a hurry, you will end up paying more than you should. The party bus companies understand the art of taking advantage of your situation to maximize profits.

Split the cost of hiring the party bus between your friends:

Another best way to save some dollars while hiring a party bus is by splitting the cost. That means you contribute with your friends and you will end up paying a very small amount of money. This will work well if you’re going to have fun with peers. You will enjoy the best limo transportation while paying less. For instance, if you’re going out, five of you share the cost among yourselves, and things will be easier for all of you. You will have more money to buy some extra drinks or even foods.

Take your time and do proper research:

There are various party bus or limo service providers in Toronto, and that means you need to do the appropriate research to get the best fair price on the market. Transportation can be costly if you just pick any party bus rental company you come across. Shop in different limo service providers in Toronto and evaluate what they offer physically.

How To Save Money Renting A Limo

People rent limousines for a surprisingly varied number of reasons. Touring an area, showing property or accommodations and amenities of an area, traveling from an airport to a meeting and, of course, for big events like shows or the high school prom are common uses of limos. Limousines offer comfort and can relieve the pressure of parking and exiting from crowded venues.

But, each of these uses and other custom uses requires a different service and therefore a different fee. For example, does your use call for a stocked bar or full food service? Satellite tv? Internet connection? These considerations cost money. By understanding and explaining your needs, you are taking the first, important step in controlling the cost of your limousine.

The second step in controlling cost is to define the size limousine you need. Will three people be touring potential real estate sites in the area or will 12 persons be attending a rock concert, athletic event or prom? You can find limousine services that can accommodate surprisingly large or very close-knit efficient groups. If you need a small limo, why pay for the biggest vehicle on the lot?

Another way to save money is to see what vintage limos the service offers. They may have older models that rent for less money than their newer models. You should not be afraid to ask about discounts for limos that have miles and years on them. Assuming the limo company is protecting their investment and maintaining the car efficiently, you can save money by using an older model. Be sure to ask about this because the provider is likely to try to rent the newer, more expensive models first.

The Basics Of Tile Roof

Roofing•by benjamin•Posted June 11, 2020June 11, 2020

Types of Tile Roofing

What Are the Main Types of Roofing Tiles?

Once you know the factors to consider, it is time to make a decision. Consider all the available choices of roofing tiles. Here are the main roofing tiles.

Metal Tiles

Metal tiles are similar to metal roofs in that they share most of the advantages. These include longevity, very few leaks, and durability. The upside to using metal tiles as opposed to metal roofs is that metal tiles have more styles to choose from.

Nowadays, metal tiles can be fabricated to look like slate tiles, clay tiles, and several other roofing tiles. They are then applied an acrylic coating to protect and enhance the look. Such tiles are suitable for homeowners who are not looking to add reinforcements to their roof decks.

This is because metal tiles are lighter than concrete tiles but thicker than asphalt shingles.

Copper Tiles

Copper roofs are known to last for more than a century before they need to be replaced. Copper tiles offer the same durability as copper roofs but they are more versatile which makes compatible with different roof styles. The biggest downside to using copper tiles is that they require professionals to install.

They are also expensive to maintain.

Stone Tiles

Slate tiles have been around for centuries primarily due to their longevity and pleasant colors. They can last up to 100 years. They also have a unique color variation that adds a pleasant look to a building.

Slate tiles are expensive and difficult to install which is one of the reasons that homeowners prefer to avoid them. Finding an experienced roofer to install the slate tiles will also be a problem. However, the authentic look you get from these tiles is worth the hustle.

Ceramic Tiles

Ceramic tiles are known for their fireproofing abilities and to some extent their durability. They exclusively used in Southwestern and Spanish style homes but now they are almost everywhere. They come in different shapes, sizes, and colors which makes them ideal for a wide range of homes.

Polymer-Sand Tiles

Polymer-sand tiles are made from mixing sand and binding them with polymers. They are considered to be the most suitable alternative to the use of ceramic tiles. They look similar to ceramic tiles but they are more durable and less likely to break.

Once installed, polymer-sand tiles require very little maintenance or replacements.

Similar to ceramic tiles, polymer-sand tiles are fireproof and weigh less than slate tiles and concrete tile. Your options regarding size and color will be limited to just a few since the number of polymer-sand tile manufacturers is still small.

Composite Tiles

Composite tile roofing is a multi-layered tile that comprises of acrylic, metal, and stone. The demand for such tiles is soaring as the need for a more natural appearance continues to increase. Composite tiles look similar to slate and clay tiles but are lighter than stone and concrete tile.

This makes them suitable for roofs with the required reinforcement for heavy roofing materials.

Bituminous Tiles

Bituminous tiles are among the lightest and easiest to install. They are made of fiberglass and covered with basalt chips or granite on top. They can be installed by any roofer since they only require an adhesive to fix them to the roof.

This reduces the likelihood of leaks as there are no holes punctured into the roof.

Concrete Tiles

Concrete tiles can be a good alternative to ceramic tiles as they are less prone to breakage and look similar to ceramic tiles. Concrete tiles are made from a mixture of cement, sand, and water. The result is a tile that is very heavy, easy to install and less expensive than slate tiles.

The only downside is that their weight creates the need for reinforcement in some roofs.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Roofing Tiles

Are you looking to replace your roof tiles and aren’t sure where to start? When it is time to start or repair your roof, you need to consider what you want before you call a roofing contractor. By making the right decision, you increase your homes visual appearance and its value.

Here are key factors to consider when you make the decision.

1. Style of Your Home

The architectural style of your house will dictate the type of roofing tiles to use. For instance, some roofing tiles are best suited for historic homes while asphalt shingles are suitable for most architectural styles. Consult with your contractor to choose the roofing that matches your home’s aesthetics.

2. Roof Application

Are you applying the roof to a new structure or is it a replacement roof? With new roofs, your choices are not limited to the existing components such as the roof structure composition or the roof pitch.

However, because of the cost of replacing a new roof entirely, if you are replacing a few broken tiles, it would be best if you retained the existing roof.

3. Your Budget

As a roof of thumb, choose a roofing material that is neither too expensive nor too cheap. The price will vary depending on the material. Always avoid cheap roofing materials, as they are costly to maintain due to frequent replacements.

Do not base your decision on price alone.

4. Durability

Your choice on roof tile types should be guided by durability. The durable roof tile will cost more but it will be worth it since the maintenance cost will be low. Most homeowners will prefer steel or aluminum roofing materials as they can last up to 50 years or more.

If that doesn’t work for you, you can always opt for the slate which can last for more than a century.

5. Climate

How is the climate in your locale? Your roof should be sturdy enough to withstand even the most extreme temperatures in your area. For example, if your locale is predominantly hot, refrain from using rubber material instead choose asphalt shingles.

Areas that have high precipitation can try metal roofs as they are waterproof and rust resistant.

6. Energy Efficiency

Be sure not to pick a roofing material that will require you to spend more on energy costs. Preferably, choose a material that is energy efficient. This will reduce your energy costs.

Longest Lasting Roofing Material

The NAHB (National Association of Home Builders) rates slate as by far the longest lasting roofing material, with a life expectancy of 150+ years, followed closely by clay and concrete at roughly 100 years. This would seem to make them the ideal choice if you’re planning a home to last for generations but there are drawbacks to these materials that you will need to consider:

  1. First, there’s the cost. These are premium materials and they come at premium prices. With such a long life expectancy, they’ll provide value for money in the long term but the initial outlay is extremely high.
  2. Another problem is weight. All these materials are heavier than the alternatives and require very strong support, adding to the cost of construction. This is particularly true for slate, which is, after all, solid stone.
  3. Finally, there are aesthetic considerations. With clay tiles and concrete, your choice of color and appearance are very limited. With slate, it’s reduced to choosing between shades of grey. This can look very elegant on the right building in the right setting but would look extremely out-of-place on most suburban homes.

So although clay, concrete, and slate are the most durable roofing materials, they might not necessarily right for you.

What Type of Roofing Materials Last the Longest?

Asphalt Shingles

One of the most common and popular roofing materials, asphalt shingle roofing is highly favored because of how cost-effective it is without compromising protection. It can safeguard your home against wind-driven rain, snow loads and even hail storms.

Metal

The metal used in roofs has plenty of benefits such as energy efficiency, wind resistance and fire resistance. It’s a great choice for homeowners who prefer a quick and painless installation. Plus, most metal roofing systems are eco-friendly, highly recyclable and last longer than asphalt shingle roofs.

Clay Tile

The great characteristic of clay tiles is how they maintain their traditional beauty despite their long service life of up to 100 years. That said, you should pair it with an efficient gutter system for better drainage and, consequently, less risk of water damage.

Wood Shake

Wood shake shingles are thicker than wood shingles because they are hand-cut rather than machine-made. Wood is a natural insulator, stabilizing your interior from the outset without resorting to add-ons. With an impressive life span of up to 40 years with proper maintenance, wood shakes are prime candidates for the best-looking roofs you’ll ever have.

Slate 

You may have seen a slate roof more than once because it’s a highly popular roofing material among historic buildings. This is thanks to slate’s longevity and durability. Today, it lives up to its reputation by combining traditional beauty and enhanced protection to make an acceptable compromise between cost and near-permanence.

Weighing Your Options: Metal or Tile Roofing

Choosing a roof for your home, be it metal or tile, is really a personal preference. However, you cannot ignore important factors in deciding which material will most likely work best. These factors include your location, the climate conditions in your area, and your budget. Fortunately, many diverse styles and types of roofing materials are available today.

The two main types of roofing materials are metal and tiles. To help you weigh things up, here are some pros and cons about the two:

  • In terms of durability and resistance, a concrete tile roof is proven to outperform other roofing products. It has a lifespan of up to 50 years, compared to metal roofing of 30 to 45 years. Concrete tiles can withstand the toughest elements. Environmental conditions, however, affect metal roofing. For instance, metal roof tends to rust with exposure to salt and temperature changes, among others. Metal roofs are also more prone to dents and cracks if there is weight on them, as compared to concrete tiles.
  • Both metal and concrete roof tiles have advantages when it comes to energy efficiency. Of the two, however, concrete roof tile contributes more to controlling internal temperatures, thereby reducing energy consumption.
  • In terms of design and style, both tile and metal roofing has evolved through the years. Although, metal roofs have more advantage in this area as they look better with any architectural style. The choice of your design could also have an impact to the aesthetic appeal and resale value of a property. It is estimated that the recouped value of a metal roof resale is approximately 90%.
  • Turning to maintenance, the colour of metal roofs normally dulls after a couple of years. Repair of metal roofing can also be difficult and expensive. This is because the entire sheet of the metal roofing may have to be removed. With concrete roof tiles, however, you can always find a set that will match the existing colour of the roof tile that has to be replaced.
  • In terms of costs, installing metal roofing requires high level of skills and technical expertise. Therefore, installation costs are usually higher.

So, the next time you change your roof, look for that solution that is appropriate to your home’s location, appealing enough to suit your style, and will give the best value for money.

Preparing For A Visit From Commercial Painting Contractors

Painter•by benjamin•Posted June 10, 2020June 10, 2020

Commercial Painting: The Advantages of Hiring a Commercial Painting Contractor

When it comes to having a fresh and beautiful looking office or any other commercial building. You will want an inexpensive and effective option for its time to time maintenance. Getting its interior and exterior painted is probably the best option that you can choose in contrast to other refurbishment options. By simply adding fresh coats of paint to your office, warehouse or other building you can significantly improve its visual appeal. This will also help you to maintain a better position in your business market. A beautifully painted commercial area infuses a good vibe among your staff and potential customers.

Sound Knowledge

One of the biggest reasons to make sure that you hire a professional for your commercial painting project is because of the amount of knowledge they can bring to your project. Commercial painting pros have extensive experience with various types and colors of paints used in this line of work, and will be able to tell you which brands and manufacturers are going to work best for your needs. In addition, most professionals can provide you with a complete color consultation to ensure that you know before any paint goes up on your walls, exactly what you are going to be looking at. Finally, because the pros know the right way to put your new coat on, you can rest assured that the results of your paint job are something that you can enjoy for a long time to come, and don’t have to worry about prematurely deteriorating.

Importance of Interior Design Colours

When you choose to repaint your commercial space make sure to use the right combinations of colours. As it also helps to uplift the employees mood and productivity at work. The way you design your office interiors will tell volumes about your attitude for your business. This can positively influence your potential customers and turn them into regular clients.

However, painting large-scale and commercial properties is not a simple activity. It is best handled by a professional team of commercial painting contractors. This will affect both your customers and employees in your favour. They have the required experience and resources to effectively finish a large scale painting work. Plus they will do it in the most cost effective way and on the right time. By using their professional painting services you can also get a beautiful exterior and interior of your residential area.

These people are very well versed in their job and do it without any flaws. You must know about the best perks of hiring commercial painting contractors. When you decide your next painting project here are some top advantages of choosing commercial painters. 

Methodical approach

Exterior commercial painters follow standard operating procedures, from painting preparation to clean-up and disposal, to produce high quality results for their clients. For national or multi-site painting projects, they understand the necessity of providing a consistent level of service, quality, project management and pricing.

Modern equipment and tools

The painting industry has seen a number of technological advancements in the past decade, with new tools being introduced. Painting contractors have access to this new equipment, such as specialist Elevated Work Platforms and scaffolding, due to their existing relationships with painting suppliers and manufacturing companies, which ensures that your building is receiving the best possible treatment.

Commercial Painting Contractors Tackle the Project Correctly

We touched on this a bit in our introduction, but it is worth repeating: The process of applying color tint is complicated, and a painter of a non-professional stature will not know how to properly handle it. If coats are not applied evenly, the resulting aesthetic will feature mismatched spots and discoloration, so this is why the services of a professional commercial painting contractor are very important. A commercial painting contractor possesses the appropriate tools to ensure that the job is done correctly.

Commercial Painting Contractors Save Time

Commercial painters know they are at your site to get a job done – period. They keep to a set timeline and strive to get the project completed within that established period as a sign of efficiency, at the very least. A seasoned commercial painter will ensure that his team does not compromise on quality even when coming up against a short deadline/timetable.

The Experience Is the Guide of Pros!

One of the best benefits of hiring a commercial painting contractor is their experience.

Professional painters know perfectly how to do a big project like painting more than one-story buildings or the equivalent of thousand square feet. The best teacher is practice. With that being written, we can say that some commercial painters have crafted their skills over more than a decade.

So, good painting contractors have experience and high-quality work backing them up. Thanks to their experience, you can rest assured that your painting projects will be completed correctly. In other words, you can have peace of mind that your final coats of paint will have an even finish. Not surprisingly, it’s reasonable that you expect high-quality results from a company that is a “certified painting contractor.” Not even the most adept do-it-yourselfers can match the beauty and lasting protection that a painting contractor provides to your walls with every brush stroke.

How To Succeed In Your House Cleaning Job

Cleaning•by benjamin•Posted June 9, 2020June 9, 2020

What are the different types of House Cleaning Services?

When starting up a cleaning company you need to decide what types of house cleaning services you will offer to your customers. You want to offer services that align with your business model and that are in demand in your area or what your customer wants.

There are two types of customers when cleaning houses: one-time and recurring. One-time customers only want their home cleaned once. Recurring customers want their home cleaned on a regular basis.

One-Time Services

Here are the most commonly offered one-time services for house cleaning:

  • Regular cleaning
  • Spring/Deep cleaning
  • Move-in/move-out cleaning

A regular cleanup goes to be the essential cleanup you supply your customers. can|you’ll|you may} have to be compelled to come back up with a listing of cleanup tasks that you just will perform for every cleanup. you’ll be able to search house cleanup services on google in your space to urge a thought of what they provide.

A spring/deep cleanup is everything enclosed in your regular cleanup with some additional cleanup tasks. Like with the regular cleanup, analysis services in your space to work out what additional tasks you may supply.

A move-in/move-out cleanup is largely a spring cleanup while not piece of furniture. you’d perform identical tasks that you just would for a spring/deep cleanup. There area unit some corporations that provide further tasks like cleanup within the cupboards, icebox, and kitchen appliance enclosed within the move-in/move-out cleanup or supply them as add-ons. It’s up to you whether or not or not you’ll supply these tasks.

Recurring Services

Here are the cleaning frequencies for recurring cleanings:

  • Weekly
  • Bi-weekly (every 2 weeks)
  • Monthly (every 4 weeks)

For recurring customers, you can either offer a regular or spring/deep cleaning for their initial cleaning. After the initial cleaning, you will be performing a regular/maintenance cleaning on a recurring basis.

What Customers Should I Target?

Your goal is to get as many recurring weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly customers as possible. These customers tend to be the most profitable over the long term. A weekly customer will pay you 52 times a year while a bi-weekly customer will pay you 26 times a year. Also, recurring cleanings are a lot easier to clean than one-time cleanings, and you can clean them in a shorter amount of time.

Where to find overlooked clients

Uncommon places that need cleaning services aren’t hard to find as long as you think outside the box. Sure, yellow pages and Google are excellent sources, but nothing beats good old-fashioned networking. Talk to your existing clients, see if they know anyone looking for commercial cleaners.

Use social media to expand your business. Place targeted ads on Facebook and Instagram that showcase your work, or if that’s not in your budget, just use your own social platforms to promote your business. You might be surprised how many clients you pick up that way!

Here are some frequently overlooked places that need cleaning services.

  • Government buildings.
  • Schools.
  • Medical and dental offices.
  • Restaurants and bars.
  • Fitness centers.
  • Retail businesses. 
  • Archiving facilities.

4 Types of Cleaning Agents and When To Use Them

Different cleaning agents are used depending on the item to be cleaned, the cleaning method and the type of soiling found on the item

Different cleaning agents are used depending on the item to be cleaned, the cleaning method and the type of soiling found on the item. There are four main types of cleaning agents used in commercial kitchens:

Detergents

Detergents are the most common type of cleaning agent and are used in home and commercial kitchens. They work by breaking up dirt or soil, making it easy to wash it away.

The detergents used in commercial kitchens are usually synthetic detergents made from petroleum products and may be in the form of powder, liquid, gel or crystals.

Degreasers

Degreasers are sometimes known as solvent cleaners and are used to remove grease from surfaces such as oven tops, counters and grill backsplashes.

Methylated spirits or white spirit were commonly used as degreasers in the past. Most food businesses now try to use non-toxic, non-fuming degreasers in their operations to prevent chemical contamination.

Abrasives

Abrasives are substances or chemicals that depend on rubbing or scrubbing action to clean dirt from hard surfaces. In commercial kitchens, abrasives are usually used to clean floors, pots and pans.

Abrasives should be used with care as they may scratch certain types of materials used for kitchen equipment such as plastic or stainless steel.

Acids

Acid cleaners are the most powerful type of cleaning agent and should be used with care. If they are not diluted correctly, acid cleaners can be very poisonous and corrosive.

Acid cleaners are generally used to remove mineral deposits and are useful for descaling dishwashers or removing rust from restroom facilities.

Cleaning and Disinfection Generally consists of Six Steps

When you need your company to have a new website or if you venture on updating your old webpage with a new look and functionality, the choices are versatile. Assuming that you will go the easy way and choose a theme for your WordPress website, the overall number of characteristics that you will need to keep in mind narrows down significantly.

Cleaning and Disinfection

Cleaning needs to be carried out in two stages. First use a cleaning product to remove visible dirt from surfaces and equipment, and rinse. Then disinfect them using the correct dilution and contact time for the disinfectant, after rinse with fresh clean water if required. During inspections of food businesses, the cleanliness of the structure of food rooms, equipment and utensils is taken into account in assessing hygiene.

To help ensure the safety of your food, it is essential that surfaces and equipment are:

  • visually clean, and
  • free from high levels of harmful germs.

Cleaning: this is the removal of visible food debris and grease. It is usually done with hot water and detergent.

Disinfection: this is the reduction of germs to a safe level and is usually done by the use of special chemicals intended for food use, or by heat (hot water at around 82°C in a dishwasher or second sink).

Detergent: a chemical used in cleaning to remove food debris and grease.

Cleaning and disinfection generally consists of six steps:

  1. Pre-clean – remove excess food waste by sweeping, wiping or pre-rinsing
  2. Main clean – loosen surface waste and grease using a detergent.
  3. Rinse – remove loose food waste, grease and detergent.
  4. Disinfection – kill the bacteria with disinfectant or heat.
  5. Final rinse – remove the disinfectant.
  6. Drying – remove all moisture.

The Cheapest Dentist Or Best Dentist

Health•by benjamin•Posted June 9, 2020June 12, 2020

Tips for Choosing a Dentist

Do you need to find a new dentist? Maybe you’ve moved, switched jobs or just want to make a change. Since there are many dental offices to choose from, don’t wait until you have tooth pain to pick one. Here are five tips for choosing a dentist

Consider office location and hours

Most people choosing a dentist look for a dental office close to their home or work. They find it easier to schedule appointments before going to work, during lunch, or later in the day when they’re headed home. Look for dentists in your preferred area. Then check the office hours to make sure they fit your schedule.

Check patient reviews

Read reviews of the dentists on your list. Make sure to read the comments posted by patients. Also ask your friends, family, neighbors, co-workers or doctor for feedback on choosing a dentist. And find out who they prefer.

Review office websites

Most dentists have a website with information about their office, along with pictures, policies, philosophy and background information. Review the information, looking for answers to these questions:

• What is the dentist’s philosophy about dental care, including the use of medications to help you relax during treatment?

• What is the office policy on missed appointments?

• After dental services are performed, when is payment due?

• If you have dental insurance, does the dentist accept your plan? Is the dentist listed as “in-network” or “out-of-network”? Learn more about dental insurance terms and definitions.

• Review the fees for dental procedures. How do they compare with other dentists you’re considering?

If you can’t find answers to these questions, call the office and talk with the office manager. Choosing a dentist who meets your needs will save you time and money in the long run

Swing by for a visit

After identifying your top choices, stop by each office for a quick visit. Is there plenty of parking? It is easily accessible? As you enter the office, look around. Is the office clean and organized? Are the dentist and team members friendly and helpful? Do you feel welcome and comfortable there? If you can, meet the dentist or hygienist. After your visits, make a list of pros and cons for each office to help you in choosing a dentist.

How to Choose a Dentist

When you’re looking for a new dentist, you’re searching for more than someone to just clean your teeth. “Your dental health is such a vital part of your overall health, so it’s important for every patient to have a dental home,” says Dr. Cathy Taylor-Osborne, an ADA dentist and director of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment’s Bureau of Oral Health. “That means there is always someone looking out for the best interest of you and your family.”

Start with the Basics

Regular visits are key to a healthy smile, so start with the details that work best with your lifestyle and dental care needs. Some things to consider include:

Is the office easy to get to from your home or job?

Do they have convenient office hours?

If you have dental benefits, is this dentist in your network?

Doctor-patient communication is very important. Do you need translation or interpreter services?

Is the dentist a member of the ADA? (Learn about the 5 promises all ADA dentists make to their patients.)

Launch the Search

Now that you’re looking for a dentist, you’re probably noticing advertisements online, in the newspaper and even in your mailbox. Social media sites may also have patient reviews of dentists near you, but remember that every person’s dental health needs and experiences are their own.

Meet and Greet

To find the right dentist, don’t be shy about calling or visiting the dentists on your list before deciding. “Schedule consultation time with the dentist to meet with the dentist and staff before making an appointment,” Dr. Taylor-Osborne says. “Make a list of questions and bring your records so the dentist can take a look at your dental history if you want to ask something more specific.” You’ll also be able to see if the office is welcoming, comfortable and neat.

Pick a Partner

Above all, you want to choose a dentist who can be a part of your total health care team. “So much of your dental health can impact your overall health,” Dr. Taylor-Osborne says. “Look for someone who can be a coach to motivate you, a trusted advisor to turn to when health issues arise and a partner to make dental care decisions with.

How to Find a Good Dentist

Overwhelmed by your pick of dentists? Want to make sure you know how to find a good dentist? I’m confident you will have the tools you need to choose the perfect dentist’s office by the end of this article. We’ll talk about what you need to know before selecting a new dentist, ways to find a great dentist, the right kind of questions to ask, and even how to spot a bad dentist.

Is this provider in your dental insurance network?

US readers: dental insurance, particularly for preventative dental care (such as cleanings), may be a factor in choosing a dentist. Since it doesn’t work the same way as medical health insurance, I’ve outlined a few ways to understand working with a new dental practice below based on your insurance status.

What if I’m satisfied with my current dentist, but they’re not in my network?

Keep going to the dentist you love! To understand why this is probably the best choice, it’s important to know that dental prices are not standardized like medical charges.

Here are the two options I would recommend, in this order:

Show them your new dental insurance plan to find out if they’re willing to accept whatever the insurance company is willing to pay, then write off the rest. The downside to this is that you could eat up the cap on your dental insurance benefits for the year, which isn’t great if you have major work needed.

Ask for an “in-network fee schedule.” That schedule is set up to normalize every dental billing code and how much they agree to make from every insurance company for those codes. Most offices are willing to accept this, and it means you’ll pay similar prices with your existing dentist as you would by switching to an in-network provider.

What if I want to find a functional dentist, but don’t see one in my list of participating providers?

If your insurance doesn’t cover your ideal functional dentist, you may still be able to find a dentist with similar ideals. Even if a dentist isn’t classified as a “functional” dentist or registered with that kind of academy of dentistry, dentists should all be familiar with the way diet influences dental health as well as the mouth-body connection. By asking questions about these issues up front, you may be surprised to find a dentist who takes a more functional approach than you first expect.

How to choose a good dentist

Choosing the right dentist and dental practice is an important decision. This blog outlines the 5 most important points to consider if you need to choose a new dentist. With a little research and knowing the right questions to ask, you should be able to choose a trusted dentist who will care for you and your family for many years to come.

Qualifications and training

All dentists must successfully complete five years of undergraduate training and have a Bachelor of Dental Surgery, with the letters “BDS” or “BChD” after their name. Dental clinicians must also attend regular training to keep their skills and techniques up-to-date. When choosing a dental practice, look for evidence of extra qualifications, skills and interests in specialist areas. Some dentists may have additional expertise in a specialist area, such as caring for anxious patients or offering particular types of cosmetic dentistry. Look out for evidence of their qualifications and skills, or ask the dental practice if unsure.

The dental practice and the dental team

The dental practice you choose should be clean, tidy and well-organised, with welcoming and helpful practice staff. Your dentist should always be professional, approachable, patient and sympathetic with all types of patient, and you should feel comfortable to ask him or her any questions you may have.

Convenient hours and location

Choosing a dental practice which is easy and convenient for you to travel to from home or work will make attending regular checkups easier and help you arrive on time. You may want to look out for a practice offering lunchtime or late appointments if you work full-time. Most practices will also accommodate family bookings, so if you have children, you can all be seen at the same time.

How to Choose a Dentist

Your smile plays a big role in making first impressions, so you should do whatever it takes to preserve healthy teeth. A good choice of dentist is key to maintaining that smile, but how do you know you are going to the right dentist? Whether you are looking for a dentist for the first time or you have just relocated and are in need of a new dentist, finding a great one just requires a little research and a preliminary visit.

Ask people you know for a recommendation. Friends, family, co-workers and neighbors are great resources when you need to find a service care provider. You might also ask your doctor or pharmacist

Look online. Find a dentist near you who is a member of the American Dental Association by visiting their website. You can also find dentists through the online yellow pages and other advertising sites.

Call a health care organization for a referral. Your health insurance provider can likely provide a list of dentists participating in their coverage. You can also call faculty members at a dental school, if there is one near you, or a local hospital to see if they have an accredited dental service.

Make sure they take your health care plan. If you have dental insurance, be sure to ask any prospective dentists if they accept your plan. Many smaller companies have a limited number of participating dentists, and dental work can be extremely expensive

How To Find The Right Immigration Lawyer

Legal•by benjamin•Posted June 8, 2020June 9, 2020

Tips to Choosing an Immigration Lawyer

Build a Relationship with your Attorney

Your visa is the first step to being able to legally live in the United States. It is also the first, but, more likely, not the last time you’re dealing with USCIS office. If all goes well, you will soon be applying for U.S. citizenship. This is why it is important that you build a good relationship with your attorney, so that he or she can serve you to the best of his or her ability in the future when you are ready to take that step forward.

Hire a Lawyer Who Speaks Your Language

Pick a lawyer who speaks your language fluently. This greatly streamlines the process and ensures that you and your lawyer are always on the same page in terms of understood legal nuances. The lawyer would also be able to make sure that the certified translations of your documents from your native tongue to English are accurate.

Upload the Process to the Cloud

Adopt a cloud file storage for the documents you need to submit with your case file. Sign the documents electronically and employ a project management system to manage the process such as Asana and Google Drive.

Tips to Choosing an Excellent Immigration Lawyer

Get a Referral

Often word-of-mouth is the best way to choose an immigration attorney. Your network of family, friends or colleagues may know other individuals who have dealt with immigration attorneys in order to acquire a green card residency visa or other benefit. You can learn firsthand about the kind of experience the individual had when working with the immigration attorney.

Asking for References

After you’ve been referred to a good lawyer, schedule a consultation where the lawyer strategizes his/her plan of action for your individual situation. Be sure to ask for references. A good immigration lawyer should have great online reviews (Google, Yelp, Avvo) and an abundant list of happy former clients willing to recommend the firm’s services.

Consider More than Just Price

Don’t blindly choose an immigration lawyer based on pricing. Like many things in life, you get what you pay for. There are plenty of sub-par immigration attorneys out there offering reduced pricing versus the competition. Some may be handling too many cases at once and don’t have a proper team to dedicate quality time and personalized service to your case. Others may not have the proper experience in complicated areas of immigration law.

Hiring a Lawyer Who Speaks Your Language

Choose a lawyer (and a firm) which speaks your language fluently. This improves communication throughout the process and ensures that you and your lawyer are understanding complicated legal nuances.

Build a Relationship with your Attorney

A visa is your first step in being able to legally reside in the United States. It may be the first, but likely not the last, time you’re communicating with the USCIS.

How to Find an Excellent Immigration Lawyer

Compare Advice By Talking to More Than One Attorney

While most good immigration attorneys will likely be pretty busy, you should be able to talk to them and their office staff to get a sense of their commitment to clients as well as their overall demeanor and impression of honesty.

Be Skeptical of Unrealistic Promises

Not even the best attorneys can guarantee success. Ultimately, the outcome of your case is up to an immigration judge, the Department of Homeland Defense and/or USCIS. Any attorney claiming he or she has a 100% success rate and guaranteeing you a particular outcome may need to be more closely evaluated.

Run From Lawyers Who Give Unethical Advice or Make Illegal Offers

Be careful of any immigration attorney who suggests that you do something fishy: perhaps lie on an application or to a USCIS officer, give the attorney extra money with which to bribe an immigration authority, or buy a fake green card from him or her.

TIPS FOR CHOOSING THE BEST IMMIGRATION LAWYERS

USE THE CLOUD

It’s a good idea to look for a lawyer who is comfortable and capable of using the cloud in place of excessive physical paperwork. Paperless signing can make the entire process much easier.

MAKE SURE YOU’RE COMFORTABLE

In addition to the more technical aspects of looking for the best immigration lawyers, you should also take into your gut instinct into account. If a lawyer doesn’t seem like he would be a good fit for you but his credentials look great on paper, you still may want to turn the other way.

NEGOTIATE THE FEE

Before you hire a lawyer, it is important that you know exactly what you will be paying for. You should take the time to negotiate the fees ahead of time and know exactly what to expect from your relationship.

CHECK FOR REFERENCES

If you’re considering using a lawyer, chances are you will sit down for a consultation to discuss your needs. This is a great time to ask the attorney for references.

How Do I Choose the Right Immigration Lawyer?

First of All, Beware Unregistered Advice

Before you do anything, make sure your immigration lawyer or migration agent is in fact registered.

What’s the Difference Between Migration Agents, Immigration Lawyers, and Accredited Specialist Immigration Lawyers?

Right then: you’re going with a registered immigration lawyer or migration agent.

What Are Migration Agents?

Originally there were just immigration lawyers. However, a few decades ago, due to a burgeoning number of unregulated “backyard” advisers in the industry, the government decided it would be better to bring such operators under their control by creating a non-lawyer category of adviser called a “migration agent”, sometimes also referred to as an “immigration agent”.

Reasons To Choose A Metal Roof

Roofing•by benjamin•Posted June 5, 2020June 5, 2020

CHOOSING A METAL ROOF

There’s a lot to be said for a metal roof’s snazzy looks and top-notch performance. The right roof can liven the home’s curb appeal and provide years of superior low-maintenance protection. Today’s residential metal roofing comes in a wide variety of styles and designs. Metal roofing materials are not only light weight but can be very energy efficient. And unlike asphalt roofs, which require re-roofing every 15 to 20 years, metal roofs won’t decompose. These roofs can withstand rain, fire, earthquakes and hurricane-force winds.

Although the initial investment in a metal roof is steeper than most other roofing materials, over time a metal roof can save a great deal of money and hassle. This is because there is no second investment in roof replacement, or the labor that comes with it. Metal roofs are practically maintenance-free, requiring only the occasional rinse with a garden hose. And most metal roofs come with a 30- to 50-year warranty. Insurance companies in certain states, like Texas, even offer discounts of up to 35 percent to homeowners with metal roofs.

What to Look For

When selecting a metal roof, first make sure the product’s design is an appropriate match to your home’s construction. Most metal roofs require solid decking. Many systems are frequently installed over existing shingle roofs. Some can be installed over lathe boards or over wood shingles on lathe. Some new products can even be installed over existing slate and asbestos roofs

Base Metal

Metal roofing is fabricated from a wide variety of metals, including galvanized steel, galvalume steel, aluminum, copper and zinc alloy—even stainless steel. The metals differ in properties, and the type used sometimes depends on the design of the roofing panel. Consider all the available options

Product Design

As metal roofing grows in popularity it also evolves in technology, giving rise to new products. As you consider your options, research the products’ track record. Ask about the systems’ flashings and accessories. You want a product with a history of solid performance. For example, inquire how the valleys are installed. If your area is prone to freezing temperatures, it might be smart to choose an “open” valley system that carries water on top of the roof rather than a “closed” valley, which carries water through channels beneath the panels. The hidden channels have been known to clog with ice and snow, causing accumulated water to infiltrate the roof system.

How to Pick the Right Metal Roof Color: Consumer Guide 2020

Choosing a color for your new metal roof is an exciting process, especially today, when you have more options available to you than ever before. However, it’s important to not get lost in the abundance of available color choices! ? keep in mind that the color you choose will greatly affect the overall look and feel of your home

Quality of Paint Finish: Kynar 500 vs. Acrylic Paints

It is crucial to select a high quality paint for your metal roof that will stand up to the elements, while looking fresh and new for years to come. Make sure to choose a paint that has been treated with a special acrylic resin that blocks ultraviolet light. It will help prevent premature fading, peeling, corrosion, rust and water infiltration.

It is also possible to apply different types of coatings and sealants as an additional protective layer decades down the road, which will make the paint last longer, and will protect the metal from sun rays, moisture and mildew.

Style of Your Home

The color of metal that you choose for your roof needs to match the overall style of your home. Choose a color based on all the elements of your home’s exterior design, such as the color of the siding, doors, windows, landscape, etc.

Achieve Desired Effects with Any Roof Color

Today, color choices available in metal roofing are virtually limitless, so it is up to you to decide what effect you want to achieve with the color of your roof.

How to Choose A Beautiful Metal Roof for Your Beautiful Home

Choosing the right roof for your home can be a daunting task. Congratulations, if you’ve found your way to metal as the most versatile, sustainable, and protective roofing material available. But, now what? With so many options to choose from, we thought we would give you some insider information on how to choose the right, beautiful metal roof for your beautiful home

Style

One of the beauties of metal roofing is the wide variety of panel profiles (styles) which are available. Homeowners can choose from corrugated looks to true standing seams to shake, slate, shingle, and tile facsimiles. But which “look” is best for your home? While this is a matter of personal choice, not every profile “fits” aesthetically and stylistically with every house.

Scale

When choosing the right look for your home, it is important to keep “scale” in mind. For example, if your home is only 50’ in width, using a 24” wide standing seam panel may be overpowering because you will end up with just 25 panels across the entire width of the roof. Likewise, a very “heavy” looking shake or tile profile may be too much for a smaller home.

Neighborhood

Keep your neighbors and neighborhood in mind when choosing a profile. You want to add to your home’s value. This can be achieved by setting your home apart from others in your neighborhood in terms of distinction and beauty. However, accidentally making your home stand out like a sore thumb through the color or product you choose can detract from home value and also not enamor yourself to your neighbors

Choose a Roof Design Expert

The installer you choose for your roof should not only have an excellent history of roofing, but he or she should also have an eye for the design and know which product will complement the beauty of your home. In some cases, your metal roofing supplier may bring sample panels so you can see for yourself and have a better idea of what a particular product may look like on your home. Some metal roofing manufacturers offer “imaging” software that shows a photo of your house with different roof profiles and colors that can be superimposed onto your home. These things, along with the expertise and experience of your manufacturer, will help you make an informed decision on the profile and color that best showcases your home.

Metal Material Types: How to Choose the Best Material for Your Roof

Whether you’re a contractor, installer, architect, distributor, or building owner, knowing the pros and cons of the most popular metal roofing materials can help you make the best choice for a structure’s roofing project.

Whether you’re in the market to purchase a new metal roof, a distributor trying to sell metal coils or sheets to customers, or a contractor dealing directly with a home or business owner, it’s vital to know the pros and cons of different metal roofing materials.

Galvalume® Roofing

Bethlehem Steel introduced the Galvalume coating to the construction industry in the early 1970s. Galvalume roofing material combines three of the most important metals used in roofing today—steel, aluminum, and zinc. Manufacturers begin with a carbon steel base sheet, which is then continuously hot-dipped with aluminum and zinc alloys until it reaches a coating consisting of 55% aluminum, 43.4% zinc, and 1.6% silicone over the base metal to protect it from the elements. This system allows for one material to have some of the best characteristics of each included metal—making it one of the fastest growing materials in today’s metal roofing market

Color Options – One of the most appealing aspects of Galvalume roofing, especially for homeowners, is the fact that Galvalume can come in an array of different colors. These pre-painted options allow for more versatility when buyers are trying to match the roofing to their home or business

Least Expensive – Compared to other high-quality metal roofing materials, Galvalume costs the least amount of money. Depending upon the thickness, color, and quality of the desired Galvalume panels, pricing could range anywhere from $75 to $250 per roofing square (100 square feet).

Important Information on Choosing The Right Metal Roof

If it is installed properly, metal roofing can provide an amazingly durable roofing option that goes beyond what traditional roofing methods can offer. Many people are coming to this realization, and metal roofing is as popular as ever. They do tend to cost more, but can in some cases provide up to forty years of life, which can be as much as twenty-five years more than other roofing systems. Deciding whether metal roofing works for a project, and what type of roofing would be best, many factors have to be weighed and considered. Here are some tips

Metal Type

Zinc, steel, aluminum, and copper are the main options with metal roofing. They all have their benefits. Steel and aluminum require special coating to provide the best protection. Copper is aesthetically pleasing and provides durability. Zinc is low-gloss, and resists corrosion. You must also factor in the thickness of the metal. It can vary between 3 to 30 gauge. The lower the gauge, the higher the thickness. That means that a low gauge generally means better durability, but it will cost more, sometimes up to $3500 a square foot. It can also be more difficult to work with since it is not as flexible.

Configuration

Metal roofing can be produced in sheets, either horizontal or vertical, and in panels. There are various connection methods to use for shingles that provide different benefits and drawbacks. These can include standing seam, batten seam metal, and through-fastened panels. Standing seams connect adjacent panels in a single or double fold. Through-fastened panels have washers and fasteners to connect them, and batten seam uses wood strips that are interlocked along with a metal cap to connect panels.

Insulation and Underlayments

There are a few underlayment options as well, including asphalt-saturated felt, self-adhering membranes, and synthetic sheets. You may need a slip sheet for between the roof and the underlayment to prevent them from sticking in hot temperatures.

Metal roofing should be a viable option when it comes to your project since it can provide so much versatility and durability. Be sure to consider all the factors to determine which type is right for your project.

The Beauty Of A Black Ceiling

Painter•by benjamin•Posted June 4, 2020June 4, 2020

How to choose the best ceiling fan

Ceiling fans are a great way to stay comfortable when the temperature rises. They can work in tandem with your air conditioning to circulate cool air, or as a cost-effective alternative. When choosing the best ceiling fan for your space, there are a few things you might want to consider.

What size ceiling fan

It might sound obvious but the basic rule is the larger the room, the bigger the fan required. For a small room (up to 20 square metres) fans with blades up to 122cm are ideal. For a bigger room, you’ll probably want to look for a fan with blades that are 130cm or more

Take control

Generally, there are two options when it comes to controlling your fan. Either a wall switch with a dial to vary the speed, or a remote control if access to the roof and wiring is an issue.

Three or four blade ceiling fans

Most fans have either three or four blades and are made of either plywood, metal or plastic. The number of blades has no effect on their ability to cool a room but timber and plastic blades do tend to be a little quieter than metal.

Finish and colour

Another factor worth considering is how your fan is going to look within a room, as they can become a dominant feature. This is not too much of an issue if it’s going to be installed in an outdoor area, but for indoor fans it’s worth thinking about how it will complement your colour scheme and décor

How to Choose the Right Size Ceiling Fan for Your Room

There’s more to choosing a ceiling fan than grabbing one you like off the shelf. It first begins with understanding the height, size and type. Follow the steps to properly measure to get the right fit.

Did you know that a ceiling fan can make a room 8 degrees cooler and help save you on energy bills? Your ceiling fan is there so you can kick back and chill out. But there’s more to choosing a ceiling fan than grabbing one you like off the shelf. Of course there are many styles and you want it to look great, but it also has to be the correct size and type. For maximum performance and comfort, you have to consider the distance from the ceiling to the floor as well as the dimensions of the blades

Determine the correct blade span for the room

It seems obvious that you want a smaller ceiling fan for a smaller room and a larger ceiling fan for a larger room. But for best performance, you need a ceiling fan with the correct blade span for the room. If the fan has an odd number of blades, measure from the center of the fan to the end of one of the blades and multiply the number by two. If the fan has an even number of blades, measure from one end of a blade to the end of the blade on the opposite side.

Determine how high to hang your fan

How high you hang your ceiling fan and the type of mount you need depends on the height of your room and whether or not the ceiling is sloped. Hanging your ceiling fan at the right height will give you the best airflow.

Determine the right downrod

Choosing the right downrod is important so that you can mount your ceiling fan at a safe distance from your head

HOW TO CHOOSE CEILING FAN SIZE – DOWNROD LENGTH AND VAULTED CEILINGS

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT SIZE CEILING FAN

If you are having a hard time deciding what size ceiling fan you need, you are not alone. There is a lot of conflicting information about this all over the Internet and the so called rules have changed dramatically over the last few years with the insurgence of a wider selection of ceiling fan sizes for use in residential applications. In the past, there were pretty much just 3 sizes: 42″, 48″ and 52″ the most popular of which was the 52″ fan. Now, manufacturers are making residential ceiling fans that are 60″, 72″, 84″ and even 99″ and the most popular size is now 60″. The trend is toward using larger fans in smaller spaces. So in our opinion, most of the ceiling fan size charts you find online are very much outdated, including the chart published by the EPA on the EnergyStar.gov Website. Below is our very own ceiling fan size recommendation chart that comes from our over 30 years of experience selling and installing ceiling fans.

What Size Fan Do I Need? BIGGER IS BETTER: The main cooling effect is felt from directly beneath a ceiling fan and drops off dramatically within about 2 feet from the blades. If the fan is in the middle of the room with seating off to the side, use as large a fan as you can handle. If the seating is directly beneath the fan, use a fan large enough to cover the seating area

WHY IS BIGGER BETTER?

From a performance standpoint, the majority of the breeze you are going to feel from a ceiling fan is directly beneath and within the space about 2 feet past the blades. The direct airflow and wind-chill cooling effect diminishes greatly right outside that area. For this reason, the size of the fan you choose is very important in order to actually feel the breeze where you need it. If the fan is going to be positioned directly over the area that needs to be cooled, a smaller size fan that is proportional to the room is quite appropriate. If the fan is not directly over the area where you will be spending time in the room, use a larger size fan that gets the blade tips as close as possible to that area. Whether or not a fan “looks” too large is a matter of personal preference. Technically, as long as the blades are at least 30″ from the nearest wall, there is no reason you cannot install a fan that is quite large in the space. The trend from ceiling fan manufacturers today is BIG and there are a lot of fans now that are over 60″ because fans simply cover more space when they are larger.

IS HIGHER CFM BETTER?

Although higher CFM (cubic feet per minute of airflow) is normally a good thing to consider, you must also make sure you consider how it correlates to blade span. Many people assume that a very large fan, say 72″ to 96″ that produces 10,000 CFM is going to cool them off better than a smaller fan, which is not likely the case. CFM is only the amount of air that is displaced, it is not a measure of how fast the air is moving, which is called wind speed. Wind speed is what actually creates the breeze or wind-chill effect that makes you feel cooler. Just because larger fans spread a larger amount of air over a larger area does not mean the move the air faster, it only means the move more air and the actual wind speed may be lower than you think. For example, you will feel a much stronger breeze from a 52″ fan that produces 7,000 CFM than you will from a 96″ fan that has the same CFM. that’s because the smaller fan is moving the same amount of air in a more concentrated area at a much higher speed. The larger fan is moving that air over a larger area at a slower overall speed. To to make sure you are not disappointed, we are the only be sure to compare our “Wind Speed Factor” between larger and smaller fans so you have a better idea how much breeze you will actually feel. Wind speed factor is our own exclusive calculation that is a relation between CFM and blade span. In most cases, two smaller fans with a higher “Wind Speed Factor” will outperform one very large fan. If you cannot install two fans, choose the largest fan you can tolerate visually with the highest “Wind Speed Factor”. A good amount of wind speed would be 3.5 to 4 MPH or more.

How to choose the right ceiling fan

Ceiling fans are a great way to cool your room without running up an astronomical electrical bill. A ceiling fan consumes about 50 to 60 watts while an air-conditioner sucks up 500 to 1000 watts – you can imagine the difference it makes to your electricity bill! Follow our tips before you head to the shops.

Determine the right size of the ceiling fan

Firstly, measure the longest wall in the room

Position your ceiling fan properly

This should ideally be the centre of your room so as to circulate air evenly. If the room is huge, you should have two ceiling fans.

Consider the ceiling height

The higher the ceiling, the more powerful the fan you need.

Decide on the number of blades you want

The more blades the better? Not always.

How to choose a ceiling fan

In addition to cooling your space, a Hunter ceiling fan adds that decorative touch that ties the room together. Hunter designs a variety of ceiling fan styles with whisper-quiet motors and high-performance features to ensure maximum airflow. With so many ceiling fan sizes and styles to choose from, you may be wondering how to choose a ceiling fan for your space.

Residential Ceiling Fans

Hunter creates residential ceiling fan styles to go with every lifestyle. Innovative features and a variety of styles ranging from traditional to modern are ready to instantly upgrade the look of your home.

Industrial Ceiling Fans

Our industrial ceiling fans are designed to increase airflow while reducing energy consumption. These high-volume, low-speed (HVLS) fans are incredibly lightweight and circulate air more than any other type of traditional ceiling fan on the market. Hunter industrial fans provide super-quiet performance and our impressive fan warranties are among the best in the industry.

Indoors

When temperatures rise in the summer, a ceiling fan can keep your home feeling cool. During chilly weather, a ceiling fan can distribute heat throughout your home, too. While some outdoor fans can be used indoors, indoor fans cannot be used outdoors.

Outdoors

When choosing a ceiling fan for an outdoor space, pick a model with the appropriate Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and Electrical Testing Laboratories (ETL) rating. Otherwise, technical difficulties with the fan can arise. For example, if the fan isn’t rated for the proper type of outdoor use and it’s exposed to humidity or rain, pieces of the fan could rust and impact operation.

Led Electrical Lighting Efficiency And The End Of The Incandescent Bulb

Electricians•by benjamin•Posted June 4, 2020June 4, 2020

Light Bulb Guide: How to Choose LED Bulbs

Shopped for light bulbs lately? If you have, you may have noticed that most bulbs sold now are LED (light emitting diode) bulbs. Old-fashioned incandescents have all but vanished from store shelves, and the popularity of CFL (compact fluorescent light) bulbs is on the wane. That’s because, although they’re more energy efficient than incandescents, CFLs just can’t compete with the energy efficiency and light quality of LED bulbs. And, while you’re lucky to get two to five years of life from a CFL bulb, LED bulbs can last 20 years or more. But trying to figure out which LED bulbs to buy can lead to a lot of head scratching. Here’s what you need to know before you shop.

Read the Label

Most of the information you need to pick the right LED light bulb is right there on the packaging, but you won’t find it on the front. Look for the Lighting Facts label on the back or side of the packaging, and pay particular attention to two terms: ‘Brightness’ and ‘Light Appearance.’

Brightness: Forget Watts — Think Lumens

Gone are the days when the wattage on a light bulb package tells you how bright it is. When shopping for an LED bulb, look for the number of lumens directly across from ‘Brightness’ on the Lighting Facts label. Wattage equivalents, usually on the front of the package, are only meant to get you in the ballpark. If you’re replacing a 100-watt incandescent bulb, you’ll want an LED that produces about 1,600 lumens. A replacement for a 40-watt incandescent bulb should produce about 450 lumens.

Light Appearance: Choose Warm or Cool to Suit Your Use

‘Light Appearance’ on the Lighting Facts label refers to color temperature, which is measured as Kelvin (K). For table lamps or living room light fixtures, choose a bulb of about 2,700 to 3,000 K to get a warm light similar to the light from older incandescent light bulbs. For task lighting in places like workshops and laundry rooms, pick a bulb of about 5,000 K for cooler, bluish light that looks more like natural daylight.

Enclosed Fixtures Need Special Bulbs

Some LED light bulbs can last for decades, but only if the heat they generate has a way to dissipate. If it can’t, heat will damage the electronics inside the bulb and it will fail prematurely. If you need to buy a bulb for a fully enclosed fixture, read the packaging carefully to make sure it’s approved for that use. Bulbs made for enclosed fixtures have a more efficient thermal design and are manufactured using components that will withstand higher temperatures

Choosing the Best LED Light Bulb

LED lighting has hit the lighting market with a crash, leaving many wondering which lights or light bulbs to choose – find out what you need to know.

There is a huge range of lighting available for domestic homes these days. As incandescent lamps have given way to halogen bulbs and then compact fluorescent lights, CFLs and now with the transition to LEDs, there is a huge amount to understand. The choice is not as easy as it was a few years ago

Many light bulbs and lighting is now LED based, but these lights are more expensive, so the first question is whether it is worth buying LED lights, or whether some of the other technologies offer better value.

LED lights vs other types – choice of technology

LED lights and light bulbs are now being widely sold and prices are coming down. However they are still more expensive than other types.

Another advantage of LEDs is that they can tolerate being turned on and off far better than CFLs. One example os that of wanting to use a low energy bulb on lights that are triggered by a motion sensor, PIR for external lighting. In windy weather PIRs are triggered very easily and can be always turning on and off. CFLs may only last a very short while, but LEDs can last very much longer.

Everything about LEDs: Learn the basics of LED lighting and how to power!

LEDs are appropriate for many lighting applications, they are designed to produce a lot of light from a small form factor while maintaining fantastic efficiency. Here at LEDSupply there are a variety of LEDs for all kinds of different lighting applications, the trick is knowing how to use them. LED technology is a tad different than other lighting that most people are familiar with. This post is here to explain everything you need to know about LED lighting: how to power LEDs safely so you get the most light and the longest lifetime possible.

What Exactly is an LED?

An LED is a type of diode that turns electrical energy into light. For those that don’t know, a diode is an electrical component that only works in one direction. Basically an LED is an electrical component that emits light when electricity flows through in one direction, from the Anode (positive side) to the Cathode (negative side).

5mm LEDs

5mm LEDs are diodes inside a 5mm diameter lens with two thin metal legs on the bottom. They are used in applications where a lower amount of light is required. 5mm LEDs also run at much lower drive currents, maxing out at around 30mA, whereas Surface Mount LEDs require a minimum of 350mA. All our 5mm LEDs are from top manufacturers and are available in a variety of colors, intensities and illumination patterns. Through-hole LEDs are great for small flashlight applications, signage and anything where you are using a breadboard as they can be used easily with their leads. Check out our guide to setting up 5mm LEDs for more info on these tiny light sources.

Surface Mount LEDs (SMD)

urface Mount LEDs are diode(s) that can be placed on a substrate (circuit board) with a silicon dome over the diode to protect it (see Fig. 1). We carry high-power Surface Mount LEDs from industry leaders Cree and Luxeon. Both are excellent in our opinion, that is why we carry them after all. Some prefer one over the other but that comes with experience and knowing what to look for. Cree tends to have higher listed Lumen outputs and are a market leader in the High-Power LED sector. Luxeon, on the other hand, has excellent colors and thermal control.

High Power LEDs come as bare emitters (as seen in Fig. 1) or mounted to a Metal Core Printed Circuit Board (MCPCB). The boards are insulated and contain conductive tracks for easy circuit connections. Our 20mm 1-Up and 3-Up star board designs are the best sellers. We also offer QuadPod’s which can hold 4 high power LEDs on a board slightly larger than the 20mm stars (see Fig. 2). All our high power LED options can be built on a linear design as well. The LuxStrip can house 6 LEDs per foot and are easily connected up to 10 feet long.

Choosing LED light bulbs

Benefits of LEDs

Climate-friendly because they last so much longer than old-fashioned incandescent light bulbs (based on manufacturer’s claims).

Waste less energy – they are very efficient and very long life: use up to 85% less electricity than traditional incandescent light bulbs.

Most LED’s cost less than $10 per bulb, some as little as $3.

Each LED bulb you buy to replace an incandescent light bulb can save you between $100 and $300 over its life (depending on the wattage of the bulb you replace).

Good for all general lighting around the house.

Features

Available in many different types, including as standard lightbulbs, candles, spotlights and recessed downlights.

Instant full brightness.

‘Warm white’ and ‘cool white’ light colours to choose from. We recommend warm white as a more comfortable light suitable for homes.

For recessed downlights, replacing the whole fitting with a dedicated LED downlight is recommended.

Better quality of light than CFLs (the spiral shaped light bulbs).

Available as dimmable and non-dimmable bulbs that can change their light colour or brightness even without the need for a dimmer switch.

Where to buy

Most hardware stores, supermarkets and specialty lighting stores sell LEDs

Base: Make sure the base of the new bulb is the same as the one you’re replacing. For standard light bulbs, check if you need a bulb with bayonet or screw fitting. To replace halogen spotlights, check if you need a low-voltage (12 V) MR16 (also called GU5.3) bulb with two sharp pins at the bottom, or a mains-voltage (240 V) GU10 bulb with two studs at the bottom – they look very similar but are not interchangeable.

Brightness: If you want to replace an existing incandescent bulb with an LED, use the wattage of the old incandescent as a guide. The packaging of LEDs usually indicates the equivalent wattage of incandescent bulbs that produce a similar brightness. If you want to buy an LED to replace a standard incandescent bulb, chances are the LED will appear brighter than the equivalent incandescent. This is because the beam angle of LEDs is narrower, so the light comes out more focussed.

LED Lighting

The light-emitting diode (LED) is one of today’s most energy-efficient and rapidly-developing lighting technologies. Quality LED light bulbs last longer, are more durable, and offer comparable or better light quality than other types of lighting

Energy Savings

LED is a highly energy efficient lighting technology, and has the potential to fundamentally change the future of lighting in the United States.  Residential LEDs — especially ENERGY STAR rated products — use at least 75% less energy, and last 25 times longer, than incandescent lighting.

How LEDs are Different

LED lighting is very different from other lighting sources such as incandescent bulbs and CFLs

Key differences include the following:

Light Source: LEDs are the size of a fleck of pepper, and a mix of red, green, and blue LEDs is typically used to make white light.

Direction: LEDs emit light in a specific direction, reducing the need for reflectors and diffusers that can trap light. This feature makes LEDs more efficient for many uses such as recessed downlights and task lighting. With other types of lighting, the light must be reflected to the desired direction and more than half of the light may never leave the fixture.

Heat: LEDs emit very little heat. In comparison, incandescent bulbs release 90% of their energy as heat and CFLs release about 80% of their energy as heat.

LED Products

LED lighting is currently available in a wide variety of home and industrial products, and the list is growing every year. The rapid development of LED technology leads to more products and improved manufacturing efficiency, which also results in lower prices. Below are some of the most common types of LED products.