Difficult Home Remodeling Contractors Creates Problems For Homeowner

Home Improvement•by •Posted

(Unofficial) Side Effects of Going Through a Remodel

Everyone knows the symptoms of a common cold — sore throat, runny nose, watery eyes. But did you know that remodels also have symptoms and side effects? After decades of working in and living around the remodeling industry, I’ve observed that there are a few side effects that almost everyone in the process of a remodel falls victim to.

The good news is that I’ve dedicated the last few years of my life to studying these effects and have come up with some treatments to ensure you retain your sanity and health during your renovation.

Scope Creep

This is a sneaky affliction that affects a homeowner’s budget and schedule. A common example of Scope Creep occurs when a homeowner sets out to remodel just one room in the house — let’s say it’s the kitchen.

A kitchen renovation is a simple enough project, and should be done quickly and easily. But then homeowners think to themselves, “But if we’re painting the kitchen, won’t the living room look dingy if it still has the old paint job? And with all this new cabinetry in the kitchen, the built-ins in the dining room will look outdated and out of place. Shouldn’t we replace them too?”

Recommendation: If you have a little wiggle room in your budget and schedule, you might choose to embrace the creep. But if you’re dedicated to sticking to your planned time and dollar investment, avoiding Scope Creep is a must. A great way to avoid the creep is the classic method of weighing pros and cons. If you decide that painting your living room is worth the extra investment, maybe a little creep isn’t so bad. But if the cons of purchasing new cabinetry for the dining room outweigh the benefits, be firm with yourself and say no to temptation.

 

Things to Consider When Renovating a Condo

Renovating a stand-alone house and renovating a condo unit can produce similar-looking results, but the processes can be very different. Each renovation of a condominium space comes with its own limitations, possibilities and strategies, all of which you should consider before beginning a project — even before purchasing a space. To make sure you aren’t hit with any unpleasant surprises, here are some things to consider before diving into your condo design project.

Know the rules. The first thing to understand before planning a condo renovation is the relevant policies of your condo board. Your board may or may not have policies that affect cosmetic decisions or material selections, but most likely it will have policies about what days and times renovations can take place, when materials may be brought into the building, which elevator can be used and so on.

Not checking on these logistical details in advance can cause massive headaches later when trying to schedule deliveries or tradespeople. Your board may require a permit or approval to begin any form of work.

Policies such as these are in place to keep your neighbors happy, so overall they are a positive thing. However, they can slow down a renovation process, so you should give yourself a long timeline. Discuss a projected timeline with a knowledgeable board member and your designer or contractor, and then add at least two months to the timeline so your expectations stay realistic.

Know who you’re renovating for. Once you know what your board will and will not allow, you have to figure out who you’re designing for. By this I mean whether you are renovating the space to add to resale or rental value, or to add to your personal enjoyment of your home. In some cases it is possible to achieve both. But realistically, a renovation usually will lean more toward one or the other, with different approaches for both, so it’s important to decide which should take priority and be honest with yourself about that choice.

 

Data Watch: Renovation Industry Sectors Report Uptick in Business

A good portion of the renovation and design industry is feeling optimistic about its business prospects, according to the latest Renovation Barometer, released this week. The quarterly index tracks optimism among architects, designers, general contractors and remodelers, design-build firms, building and renovation specialty firms, and landscape and outdoor specialty firms.

Four out of six industry sectors reported optimism for the first quarter of 2017 in line with one year ago. Notably, the confidence of architects rose, after having dwindled the past several quarters. But confidence among building specialty and outdoor specialty firms dipped slightly for the time of year, perhaps due to stormy winter weather conditions. Labor shortages also are continuing to hold back some firms, particularly in the Midwest. Read on to get the latest pulse of the renovation market.

Labor shortages continue. Three out of 4 general contractors, remodelers and design-build firms reported moderate to severe labor shortages across a broad range of skilled trades. Finish carpenters are in shortest supply. General laborers are also difficult to hire.

Down about 635,000 employees. Between January 2007 and January 2011, a period of crisis for the housing market, U.S. residential building and remodeling firms and specialty trade firms (such as plumbers and carpenters) together lost about 1.35 million employees, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. These two sectors have gained back about 710,000 employees as of March 2017. But there are still 635,000 fewer workers than at the 2007 peak: 420,000 fewer workers in the specialty trades and 215,000 in residential building.

Architect optimism bounces back. After a few quarters of declining optimism, the Barometer reading for architects’ sentiment about the state of their industry ticked up 12 points during the first quarter of 2017, to 66, compared with 54 during the last three months of 2016. (A reading over 50 indicates that more firms are reporting that business activity is higher than reporting it is lower, compared to the prior quarter.)

 

How to Write a Design Brief for Your New Home or Remodel

Before you can even begin to design your own home (or design anything for that matter), you need to establish a clear brief for the project. This is more than just a wish list — it covers all aspects of the project: size, appearance, location, orientation, sensory qualities, cost, construction methods and much more. Let’s take a look at writing a brief in detail.

Your written brief will form the foundation of your entire house design. It is a description of your design objectives, which you will refer back to constantly and, as such, requires careful consideration.

The step-by-step process outlined below is the method I use to create briefs for every project I do. Whether you are designing a new house or extending an existing one, the approach is the same. Work through the steps, and by the end you will have not only a comprehensive and detailed brief but also a greater understanding of what it is you need rather than simply what you want.

Don’t worry about getting it right the first time; there will be plenty of opportunities to refine it later. What matters is that you get everything out of your head and down on paper so that the project can start to move forward.

Compile a list of “likes” and then analyze them. The first step in designing your own home is to establish the sort of house you want to create and why. You should begin by collecting images of all the things you like and that speak to you about the type of home you want to create. I find to be the best tool for this because you can easily share your list and collaborate with other family members

 

Sentences Your Contractor May Not Want to Hear

There are parts of every job, no matter what field you’re in, that are just less fun than others. Building professionals pride themselves on doing anything and everything to make clients happy. But that doesn’t always mean the builder is jumping up and down with excitement at every stage of a project.

When it comes to remodeling and home building, contractors will do just about anything to make you happy. They’ll meet with you on short notice. They’ll come up with creative solutions to your unique requests. They’ll even clean your toilets if you ask (although maybe not for free).

“I reselected my plumbing fixtures.” Most good contractors will harp on how important it is to get all your selections made as soon as possible. Some won’t even start a project until everything is selected. It’s a great practice, and it helps to keep your project going as smoothly as possible.

So if you come to your builder in the middle of the project and say, “Hey, by the way, I chose all new plumbing fixtures for the master bathroom,” they might get a little nervous. Depending on what stage of work they’re in and what you reselected, this could be no big deal. Or it could mean doing a lot of extra work to prepare for the new fixtures. Even worse, there may be a lead time associated with your new selections. This could cause an unplanned stop in work, which nobody (homeowners, subcontractors, builders, neighbors) likes.

“Can we hang this chandelier up there?” (Points to 20-foot-tall ceiling.) Why, yes! Yes, we can. I’ll just be sitting in the corner biting my nails as I watch my electricians stand on massive ladders that I (the person with the fear of heights) would never set foot on, all while they hold and hang a massively heavy and most likely expensive chandelier. But, yeah, we can definitely do that. No problem.

Go With A Pro Commercial Painting

Painter•by •Posted

How do you know if a paint job is good?

What’s the difference between a good paint job and a bad one?

As a professional painter in Virginia my job is to first estimate what a particular job might cost. Painting is a different ball game than most other home services.  Everyone thinks they can paint—just watch how fast the color goes up on those done-in-a-day home-makeover shows. Grab a brush, a roller, and a couple gallons of latex, and you’re all set.

The truth is, it is easy to paint poorly.  There’s no substitute for learning the proper steps, taking time to do the job right and improving your technique as you go.  Estimates will vary in ranges drastically.  Reasons will vary, typically the lower quotes come from painting contractors who are not licensed and insured, this is a huge detriment to the homeowners if they are not.  There are also people who do not know how to properly prepare and apply paint, understand sound business practices, nor do they participate in uniformly applying the industry standards to the work they perform.

As a consumer, it is sometimes hard to know if you have had a good paint job or a bad paint job and the unfortunate thing is that it could potentially take a year or longer to realize that you have had a bad paint job.

The first indication of a bad paint job will be the customer service the contractor provides from the time the initial call was made, to the estimate and the first few days on the job. If you are not feeling comfortable, you are probably right.

A good job starts with the initial call. How was your call handled, was there somebody there to receive your call? Was the person that provided the estimate professional? Did they provide all details of the job from the preparation methods, number of coats included, type of paint that will be used and any special requirements in writing? Did they address your concerns?

 

Things to Look for in a Quality House Paint Job

The definition of quality can be somewhat subjective. Yet, there are definite parameters that define whether you received a quality house paint job or not. You should be familiar with these seven things before you hire a painting contractor.

Paint Quality Tip #1 – Proper Protection from Paint

In most cases, a painting contractor isn’t working with an empty house. If you are painting the exterior of your house, protecting shrubbery and landscape plantings from paint is very important. Not only is paint ugly on your bushes, it can also harm the plants. Landscaping is an important aspect of curb appeal so you don’t want to have to reinvest in it after you’ve had your home painted. If the painting contractor is going to be working inside your home, you want to be assured that your furniture and floors don’t end up with paint all over them. You also don’t want paint on light fixtures and doorknobs. You want paint to be where it belongs and nowhere else.

Paint Quality Tip #2 – Proper Pre-Paint Preparation

A paint job will not last if proper pre-paint preparation techniques are not used. Things like silicone, wax, polish, grease and dirt will prevent the paint from adhering properly. Things might look okay for a short while, but when bad weather arrives, it becomes apparent that pre-paint preparation was sloppy.

Before new paint can be applied, it’s important that all dirt and grime, mold and mildew and chalking or peeling paint be removed. This is important whether the painting is in the interior of the home or on the exterior. Painting contractors may use water blasting as a pre-painting technique on exterior walls. Water blasting is a quick and easy way to clean off dirt and grime. It can remove mold and mildew. It can also remove paint that’s chalking or peeling. But it also has the potential for damaging exterior materials is too high pressure is used.

So how do you know you’re working with a professional? One sign is a professional will ask you to turn off the electricity to all the outlets and fixtures on the outside of the house. A professional will protect each outlet and fixture by wrapping it with plastic and securing the plastic carefully with tape. A professional contractor won’t expect to come back the next day and start painting if you have wood siding. The professional knows that it takes several days for the wood to dry out. In fact a professional will use a moisture meter to make sure that the reading is 15% or less before painting.

Paint Quality Tip #3 – Caulking

You have the right to expect a painting contractor to caulk holes, window frames and other trim areas that typically require caulking. One of the goals of painting your home is to protect it from the environment. Caulking prevents water from seeping in behind trim and causing extensive damage. On the inside of the home, caulking eliminates the home many bugs would like to make behind your trim work or cabinets. Caulking is all part of doing a quality job both inside and out.

 

Here are the few steps to check for a quality paint job:

  • First of all check the colour of your house paint. See that it is the same shade or tint you have chosen from the shade card (fan deck). See that the colour scheme has been strictly followed.
  • The paint on the walls should not drip. If signs of drips or dried drops re visible than inform the painter to sand it down and retouch it. If it dries then sagging defect may happen.
  • Check that all house paint is applied evenly and is free from runs and sags. See that the painted wall surface is smooth. Run your hand along the walls to check for imperfections.
  • Check if the original colours are covered properly with the new colour coat.
  • Check the edges of the walls and make sure these lines are straight and sharp. Uneven lines are signs of imperfections in workmanship of the painters.
  • Check whether caulking is done. Make sure that there is no leakage behind the trims because that may damage the wall surface.
  • The coverage of paint should be even, especially at the corners of windows and doors.
  • A good-quality paint job gives a clear-cut separation of colours. The lines between ceiling and trims, or the ceiling and walls should be clean, straight and sharp.
  • Check the paint at the corners of the doors, sidewall and also check the window corners.

 

Signs it’s time to repaint your house exterior

While there are general guidelines on how often to paint your home’s exterior, you may not know exactly when your home was last painted. In this case, you’ll need to watch out for a few things. When your home is giving you these signals, you’ll know it’s finally time to update your exterior paint job.

Telltale signs it’s time to repaint your house exterior

Damaged stucco and wood

While paint does help to keep these surfaces protected from the elements, no surface will last forever. You may see cracks in your stucco or signs of rotting in wood. At this point, you’ll need to assess the damage and repair the surface. Once this is done, it’s important to give the house a fresh coat of paint to ensure the surface is properly protected from the elements.

Bubbling, cracked, or peeling paint

If you spot paint that is peeling, cracked, or bubbling, it’s important to take action right away. Once paint peels away, it leaves parts of your home exposed to the elements. This could cause long-term damage. If the wood is exposed to rain or snow, it could lead to mold, mildew, and even rotting. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s a sure sign that it’s time to give the whole exterior of the house a fresh paint job.

Cracked caulking

Caulking is usually around your doors and windows and is used to properly seal them. If you notice small cracks in these areas, they can sometimes be repaired by simply filling them in with fresh caulking. If left untreated, this can allow for moisture to seep in, which could cause lots of damage. If you notice larger cracks, you’ll definitely want to replace the caulking and add a fresh coat of paint to give it an added layer of protection.

Moisture stains and mold

Moisture stains and mold are sometimes just surface stains that can be wiped away or removed with pressure washing or a little elbow grease. However, sometimes these stains can be signs of deeper damage. If you can’t remove a stubborn stain, it’s a good idea to have a professional take a look at it. Many stains just need to be painted over, however, you might need to replace the material if there is more extensive damage.

 

Tips and Techniques for a Great Paint Job

A room can be vastly improved with a fresh coat of paint. But if you have a love-hate relationship with painting, you’ll want to read our tips on how to paint efficiently and ensure a beautiful end result. You might even enjoy the project as much as the finished product!

Start out Right

You’ll enjoy the job more if you get everything together at the start. Organize a tool station in the middle of the area you’ll be working in. Gather together your paint, brushes, rollers, hammers, screwdrivers, plastic bags, plastic wrap, rags, paint can opener, and drop cloths.

Plan a Day for Prep

Don’t try to get everything done in one day. Use the day before painting day to gather furniture in the center of the room, patch cracks and holes, put blue painter’s tape around doors and windows, and cover wall and ceiling light fixtures (light bulbs removed, of course!) with large plastic bags.

Clear the Decks

If you can, clear out all the furniture and accessories. Take everything off the walls. If you can’t move everything out, place the furniture and lamps in the middle of the room and cover them with a good drop cloth. Be sure that you tape the cloth around the furniture. Then put the second cover of plastic or old sheet over everything.

Remove All Hardware

It may seem easier to paint around doorknobs or cabinet hinges, but unless you’re a professional experienced painter, you’re bound to get drips around. So carry around some zip-top bags and remove all cabinet knobs and hinges, door knobs, light switch plates and outlet covers, and light fixtures. Place the pieces together in separate bags and clearly mark the contents and location (top left cabinet, bathroom door, etc) you took them from. This is a great time to clean the hardware! Put them back when you’re done painting.

Get Yourself Ready

No matter how hard you try, you’re bound to get drips (or more) of paint on whatever you’re wearing. So take off all jewelry. Reserve some old, but comfortable, clothes for your painting jobs. Slip-on shoes are easy to take off if you need to leave the room. You won’t have to worry about tracking drops of paint into other rooms. When you paint the ceiling, put a scarf, shower cap, or old baseball hat over your hair and some plastic over your eyeglasses.

You May Have A “Dream” Solution To Your Auto Repair Problem

Automotive•by •Posted

What can I do about a bad mechanic?

What is a Defective Mechanic Work Lawsuit?

Individuals may bring their automobile to a mechanic for repairs. Repairs are needed for many reasons. Individuals may sue the mechanic for defective mechanic work. Defective mechanic work, also called faulty repair work, occurs when a mechanic negligently makes repairs that result in vehicle damage or injury to people.

What is Defective Mechanic Work?

To repair a vehicle, mechanics may fix, adjust, replace, or remove one or more parts. A mechanic must perform repairs using a reasonable standard of care. This means the mechanic may not act negligently. To make repairs under a reasonable standard of care, a mechanic must use the standard knowledge, skills, professionalism, and “know-how” expected of a mechanic.

To act with skill and professionalism in making repairs, a mechanic must (among other things):

  • Ensure that a vehicle brought in for inspection is repaired so it is safe for driving;
  • Replace, remove, adjust, or upgrade parts, with the skill expected of a mechanic making such repairs;
  • Make only repairs that are necessary; and
  • Make only those repairs that a customer authorized.

What is “Reasonable”?

What is “reasonable” in “reasonable standard of care” depends upon the circumstances. If a person brings a vehicle to a mechanic for repairs covered by a warranty, the mechanic must use the skill and care required to make warranty repairs. If a person brings an electric or hybrid vehicle to a mechanic for repairs, the mechanic must use the knowledge and skill that a mechanic who repairs such vehicles is expected to use.

 

The Mechanic Damaged My Vehicle – What Can I Do?

Question: I took my car in for service and when it was returned, my transmission was no longer working properly. The mechanic said that he didn’t do anything to it, but the vehicle was working perfectly when I left it at his place of business. I am not sure what type of lawyer I need or what I can do about the situation.

First, the type of lawyer that you may need depends on the type of claim that you would like to file. A lawyer can walk you through each possible cause of action and the legal elements that you must establish. If you were to file a lawsuit, you would be known as the plaintiff and you would have the burden of proving the legal elements of your case.

One type of claim that may be available based on your circumstances is a breach of contract. If the mechanic was contracted to perform the work in a skillful manner and he did not, you may be able to sue on these grounds. If the service was provided as part of a warranty on the vehicle, you may have a breach of warranty case. The legal complication of this issue may be that you may not have a contract for the transmission work. Therefore, the mechanic may not have breached his duty if he performed the other work correctly.

Another possible cause of action is negligence. This legal theory is based on the idea that the mechanic owed you a duty to properly repair your vehicle and that by messing up the transmission, he breached the duty. The other elements that you have to prove are causation and damages. Based on your description, damages should be relatively clear as they will amount to the money that you will have to spend to get the transmission fixed.

The biggest legal complication that you are likely to encounter is to prove causation. Your theory will be that the mechanic caused the damage to the vehicle. Based on your description, it sounds like the mechanic will say that he did not do the damage. He may even say that the damage had to be there before you brought the vehicle in, but you may not have been aware of it. Remember, you have the burden of showing the court that the mechanic actually caused this damage. Therefore, you will likely need more than just your word to prove this series of events. For example, you may need to have another mechanic inspect the vehicle and write down his or her observations and opinion about what caused the transmission problem. If you decide to go to court, you will likely need the mechanic to appear in court to provide testimony as a written document of this nature may be considered hearsay.

 

Signs of a Bad Mechanic

Even if you buy a reliable car, change its oil regularly, and drive carefully, you can’t avoid visits to a mechanic. These repairmen have more training and tools to tackle automotive problems. Finding a trustworthy mechanic can be a challenge. But bad mechanics will do certain things that raise red flags. If you know the signs of a bad mechanic, you’ll be able to waste less of your time and money.

The mechanic isn’t certified

When asked to show proof of certification, a bad mechanic may become defensive and claim they have enough experience to keep you from pressing the issue.

The mechanic is inexperienced

If you take your car to a mechanic who has no idea what they’re doing, you will be charged extra for more hours of labor. A bad mechanic may claim it will take a few days to replace something simple like a tire rod, while it will only take an experienced mechanic an hour or two. Always check to find out how long a fix will take at another auto shop.

The mechanic won’t let you see the old parts

A bad mechanic will try to charge for work by “fixing” something that wasn’t broken in the first place. If you suspect this, always ask to see the old parts. A truthful mechanic will have no problem showing them to you.

The mechanic won’t admit to mistakes

Replacing parts or filters is a relatively routine task, but mistakes can still happen. It may be due to an issue outside of the mechanic’s control, but a good one will still take responsibility. A bad mechanic will pass the blame off instead of admitting they are at fault.

 

Discuss your concerns with your mechanic

If you are not happy with repair work:

  • speak with the repairer and give them a chance to explain and/or fix the problem. Do not just take your car to another repairer
  • mention the warranty on parts and repairs
  • consider that a problem may be unrelated to the work that was done
  • contact your insurance company, if the car is insured.

 

Times You Can Sue a Mechanic

Car repairs can be a scary prospect. First there’s the cost, the time it will take, and then the worry about the repairs being done right. Most mechanics do good and honest work, and care for our cars like they were their own. But other mechanics on the other hand…

So what happens if you get one of the bad guys? When can you sue a mechanic if they don’t take good care of your car?

  1. Bad Repairs

First and foremost, mechanics must do good work. You’re there to get a problem fixed, and if it is not fixed properly that could be dangerous for you and other drivers. Not to mention you shouldn’t be charged for non-existent or ineffective auto repairs. If a mechanic improperly installs a part, disables a safety device, otherwise fails to make adequate repairs to your vehicle, you may have a valid lawsuit.

  1. False Estimates or No Estimates

Most states have consumer protection laws that require auto repair shops to disclose details about repairs before they are done. Under these statutes, mechanics and other service providers must give you a detailed estimate of all work to be done, disclose whether used or rebuilt parts are being installed, and give you a quote for the costs. If your mechanic fails to give you an estimate of the work or fails to honor the estimate, you may want to call a lawyer.

  1. Breach of Warranty

Often we purchase new and used cars with warranties that cover certain service to the vehicle. These warranties generally come with stipulations regarding what repairs are covered, for how long, and may require you to use specific mechanics. If the mechanics don’t honor the warranty, either to repair the car or in covering the cost, you may need to sue.

  1. Fraud

Most of us have our guard up when we take our cars to a mechanic. The amount of stories we’ve heard about auto repair scams, coupled with our general unfamiliarity with the inner workings of our automobiles, means we’re already suspicious. But how do you know if your mechanic is taking you for a ride? Actually discovering fraud may be difficult, but if you discover your mechanic has charged you for service or parts he didn’t provide you may be able to sue for damages.

  1. Invalid Use of a Mechanic’s Lien

There are times when a repair person or company can place a lien on a customer’s property to pay for service or improvements done to the property. This is called a mechanic’s lien, and it is available not just to car mechanics, but to plumbers, painters, carpenters, and construction contractors and subcontractors — anyone who provides a service that improves a customer’s property.

Benefits Of Hiring A Good Immigration Lawyer

Legal•by •Posted

IMMIGRATION LAWYERS

a distinguished law firm with offices across the United States. represents thousands of employers and individuals across the United Stated and around the world. has over forty immigration lawyers and paralegals covering the full spectrum of immigration services

Help employers sponsor foreign-born employees for work visas and green cards and assist them in complying with I-9 requirements as what to do when they receive a Notice of Inspection from the government.

assist individuals in getting E-2 treaty investor visas, H-1B professional visas, J waivers, L intracompany transferee visas, O visas for persons of extraordinary ability, P visas for athletes, artists and entertainers, R visas for religious workers and various other types of temporary working visas.

immigration lawyers help clients get green cards through employment, marriage, relatives, investment and asylum. also assist them in becoming citizens of the United States through naturalization or through their parents.

assist clients in obtaining green cards as EB-1 priority workers for persons of extraordinary ability, outstanding professors and researchers and multinational executives and managers. also help them to qualify under EB-2 category as persons of exceptional ability, through national interest waivers or through PERM applications as advanced degreed professionals. assist clients in getting green cards in the EB-3 category through PERM or for those who qualify under one of the Schedule A shortage occupation categories.

 

Getting immigration advice

Complete the application form yourself

You can choose the visa you need using the Immigration website and complete the application form yourself with the information provided by Immigration

Engage a licensed immigration adviser

You can engage a licensed immigration adviser to assist you with your visa application but they must have a current licence.

Before engaging an adviser, check the register of licensed immigration advisers to make sure the person you are engaging has a valid immigration adviser licence. Check the licence expiry date and type of licence (some advisers may only be able to advise on limited areas).

Should you have any difficulty finding a licensed immigration adviser or complaining about one, you can contact the Immigration Advisers Authority directly. The Authority is responsible for licensing immigration advisers, receiving complaints and taking action against those giving immigration advice without a licence.

Engage someone who is exempt from the license requirements

You can also seek immigration advice from people who are exempt from the requirement to hold a licence.

 

To get a visa or green card you need the right lawyer. Here are ways to keep the cost down

With the new complexities and restrictions of the U.S. immigration system, it has become more challenging for immigrants to move through the legal immigration process.

Across all sections of immigration laws and regulations, the U.S. government is requiring increasing evidence that immigration benefits applicants meet strict eligibility requirements

So it’s more important than ever to get expert advice from a lawyer who has experience, has seen similar cases and knows what is going to be convincing to the government agency, the U.S Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), making the decision.

“First and foremost, an individual has to feel comfortable with the lawyer and with the relationship you are going to have with the lawyer, because you are going to trust and rely on this person,” said

“It’s very important for people to understand they are hiring the lawyer, the lawyer works for them, they are the boss, and if they are not happy with the service, they should tell the lawyer, and they are entitled to work with the lawyer,” he added.

 

Prepare The Following Things When Meeting With Your Immigration Lawyer

If you are new to the United States and looking to either gain a temporary work visa or to become a citizen, then it is important to deal with an experienced immigration lawyer. An attorney will be able to help you navigate the complicated court system and the sometimes confusing court documents that come with them

Narrow down your options

There is a vast array of visa options depending on your desired end result. For example, there are more than 20 different types of visas for temporary nonimmigrant workers, but they can be limited. There are also 480,000 family-based visas available each year, along with only 140,000 visas per year for employment-based immigration. It is important to go into the meeting with your attorneys knowing what outcome you would like to achieve.

Bring any relevant materials

This means writing down any information that could be relevant to your case, including things like why you left your country, if you have a sponsor in the United States, or if you have any witnesses if you have a criminal case on your hands. Make sure to include copies of any immigration paperwork you may have like your birth certificate, any visa applications you have completed, and any documents given to you when you entered the country.

Feel free to bring a translator

If you are worried about your speaking skills, go ahead and bring a trusted speaker with you to the appointment. If you check ahead, your immigration lawyer may speak your native language or have a paralegal who can help translate as well.

Be forthcoming

It is important to share with your lawyer every detail you have about your case, good or bad. American lawyers are bound by attorney-client privilege, and they could lose their right to practice law by disclosing the information you provide. Being completely transparent will also help you in the long run.

 

LEGAL & IMMIGRATION SERVICES

Full-Service Immigration & Corporate Law Firm

a full-service immigration law firm focused on tailoring the very best immigration and corporate solutions that meet the needs of our clients. Known for our creative solutions that obtain “impossible” visas, we solve the most complex immigration problems for business, investors, individuals and families.

focus is on making the personal and business goals of clients a reality. work closely with clients to understand their needs, and in doing so forge partnerships that live long after cases have been filed and passports secured.

are a leading global law firm for a range of different visa systems and citizenship by investment programs, this includes EB-5 visas, E-2 visas, E-1 Visas, L-1 visas, immigrant visas for Indian nationals, immigrant visas for Italian nationals, immigrant visas for nationals, and the Citizenship by Investment Programme.

extensive knowledge, speedy response and attentive service took away all my fears of dealing with immigration and visa applications. He is very generous with his time in explaining every step along the way and I have already and will in the future recommend him to anybody who is looking for an immigration lawyer.

Eye Care Tricks That Attract Girls

Health•by •Posted

Can you reverse eye damage?

There are countless conditions and diseases that can target the eyes and affect your ability to see. Once damaged, can your eyes be healed once more? There are many common conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, nearsightedness, farsightedness and more that our patients struggle with. Some conditions that involve eye damage or vision damage can be reversed while others can’t. That’s why it’s so important to see an eye doctor often to monitor the health of your eyes and your vision. We can detect problems before they become severe and make you blind. Find out what some of the common eye conditions are that cause vision loss and if your condition can be reversed.

The Retina And Eye Damage

There are many parts of the eye that contribute to your vision. One of the most important parts is the retina. When you look around at your environment, light enters your eyes through your cornea and lens. The lens focuses rays of light onto your retina, which is the light-sensitive nerve tissue that contains photosensitive cells called rods and cones. These cells convert light into electrical signals that tell your brain (via the optic nerve) what you are seeing. If the retina is damaged, then eye damage and even blindness occur.

Nearsightedness, Farsightedness, And Astigmatism

Nearsightedness is also known as Myopia and is a refractive error in the eyes where objects up close appear clearly, while objects far away are blurry. Farsightedness (also known as presbyopia) is the exact opposite. Objects farther away appear clear while objects up close are blurry. About 40% of Americans are nearsighted, and many Americans have some form of farsightedness.

Astigmatism is another common refractive error of the eyes. It is the optical term for more than one point of focus. Instead of being spherical, the cornea is shaped more like a rugby ball, causing the eyes to try to focus on several different points at once. Luckily, nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism can all be treated and corrected with eyeglasses, contact lenses, and LASIK or refractive surgery.

Macular Degeneration

This is the leading cause of vision loss currently. The retina’s central area (called the “macula”) is what focuses central vision in the eye. Macular degeneration and age-related macular degeneration are conditions where you lose your central vision. Around 2.1 Million Americans over 50 have age-related macular degeneration. Even more people (9.1 million of them) have early macular degeneration. You can get macular degeneration due to genetics or can develop it over time with too much exposure to blue light. If it is the latter, make sure you wear computer glasses when using devices such as laptops, cell phones, tablets, and other electronics that use blue light. LED and fluorescent lighting also give off a lot of blue light, which can damage your retina.

 

What is the ideal dietary regimen for someone concerned about preserving or improving eye health?

Lists the Top Ten Foods for Sight:

  • Cold water fish (sardines, cod, mackerel, tuna) are an excellent source of DHA, which provides structural support to cell membranes and is recommended for dry eyes, macular degeneration, and sight preservation.
  • Spinach, kale, and green leafy vegetables are rich in carotenoids, especially lutein and zeaxanthin. Lutein protects the macula from sun damage and from blue light.
  • Eggs are rich in cysteine, sulfur, lecithin, amino acids, and lutein. Sulfur-containing compounds protect the lens of the eye from cataract formation.
  • Garlic, onions, shallots, and capers are also rich in sulfur, which is necessary for the production of glutathione, an important antioxidant for the lens of the eye.
  • Non-GMO soy, low in fat and rich in protein, contains essential fatty acids, phytoestrogens, vitamin E, and natural anti-inflammatory agents.
  • Fruits and vegetables contain vitamins A, C, E, and beta-carotene. Yellow and orange vegetables, like carrots and squash, are important for daytime vision.
  • Blueberries and grapes contain anthocyanins, which improve night vision. A cup full of blueberries, huckleberry jam, or a 100 mg bilberry supplement should improve dark adaptation within 30 minutes.
  • Wine, known to have a cardio-protective effect, has many important nutrients, which protect the heart, vision, and blood flow.
  • Nuts and berries are nature’s most concentrated food sources. Grains, such as flaxseed, are high in the beneficial Omega-3 fatty acids, which help lower cholesterol and stabilize cell membranes.
  • Extra-virgin olive oil, is a healthy alternative to butter and margarine.

 

Natural Herbs for Eye Wellness

To succumb to the philosophy that our eyes aren’t prone to outside interferences with either environmental toxic substances or internal maladies causing distress is to approach the natural world with a degree of hesitancy. Here’s the thing though: A natural remedy for vision loss needs to be taken seriously, as our bodies are designed to uphold and adhere to more holistic wellness than ever thought possible.

We came from natural circumstances, and it is with these remedies that we’re able to return and restore what was given to us at birth. It is NOT a fictitious claim to employ natural and organic remedies for vision loss. One important factor to take into account is that the ‘natural’ method isn’t a quick fix. Patience and perseverance are two traits that must be followed towards the path to better vision.

Most western medicine doctors are now incorporating more alternative herbs and solutions into their traditional practices, mainly due to demand. If our holistic wellness ranks higher in society than prescription drugs (and their higher costs and the propensity towards addiction) it’s highly likely that natural remedies will be more popular than eyedrops or eye medicine, or even laser surgery down the road. Big Pharma wants you to spend an exorbitant amount of money that may never alleviate your symptoms of vision loss, thus you’re left with out-of-pocket expenses you hadn’t planned and your vision continues to be compromised.

Here’s a quick list of natural herbal remedies that can ward off the onset of vision loss while helping your overall wellness:

  • Eyebright – more of a folk remedy for the eyes. Hastens recovery from conjunctivitis. Packaged in tea form as well.
  • Gingko Biloba – an antioxidant that protects nerve cells and improves blood flow to the retina. Improves vision for glaucoma patients.
  • Coleus – reduces the production of fluid in the eye, which reduces pressure from potential glaucoma. Contains forskolin.

Following, and in conjunction with the herbal remedies above, it’s wise to take these supplements to also help with your vision and keep your eyes as healthy as possible:

  • Vitamin C – 500 mg
  • Vitamin E – 400 IU
  • Zinc oxide – 80 mg
  • Copper – 2 mg
  • Lutein – 10 mg
  • Zeaxanthin – 2 mg

 

Reversing Sun Damage

eyes squinting from the sun

Damage to the eye can sometimes be permanent or at least semi-permanent, with some symptoms fading but not completely. If you have any reason to believe your eyes have been overexposed to the sun (which is common with people who are often outdoors, such as farmers), you should wear sunglasses and a hat regularly. This ideally will give your eyes time to heal.

Also, see a specialist and see what your options are. Depending on the severity of your damage and your particular situation, surgery to improve your vision may or may not be an option.

Avoidance Is Key

Rather than risk permanent damage, it is best to learn to avoid overexposure to the sun. Familiarizing yourself with the UV index can help you stay safe.

  • UV 2 or less: Wear sunglasses, and consider sunscreen.
  • UV 3-5: Wear sunglasses, cover up, use sunscreen, and avoid the sun when it is strongest at midday.
  • UV 6-7: Wear a hat and sunglasses, cover up, and use sunscreen. Avoid the sun if possible between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
  • UV 8-10: Follow the same guidelines as UV 6-7.
  • UV 11+: Wear a hat and sunglasses, and reapply sunscreen (SPF 15+) every two hours. Try to totally avoid sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. if possible.

 

How Your Uveitis Can Be Treated

It’s important to get the right treatment for your uveitis as soon as you can. If it’s not taken care of, uveitis can lead to serious eye problems, including blindness.

Your treatment plan should include things to control your inflammation. Treatment can also:

  • Ease eye pain
  • Prevent the damage to your eyes from getting worse
  • Help get back eyesight you’ve lost

What your doctor will prescribe depends on what kind of uveitis you have, where it is in your eye, and if you have it in both eyes. If your first course doesn’t work well, your doctor can switch you to something else.

The Pros Of Free Checking Accountant

Accounting•by •Posted

Good Accounting Practices for Nonprofits

As an accountant, it’s important to be on the top of your financial game. Understanding healthy nonprofit accounting practices, the best nonprofit accounting software to use, the latest rules and regulations, and protecting your organization’s financial data is key

Have Internal Policies and Controls

Fraud is a real concern for nonprofit organizations. In fact, 40% of NPO professionals say they put “some or minor effort into helping prevent fraud”, according to Abila’s 2016 Nonprofit Finance Study.

Assign Different Financial Practices to Different People

Similar to the above, you want to protect your organization from any type of possible fraud. An easy way to do that is to assign different financial tasks to different people. Why do this?

Use Accounting Software Designed for Nonprofits

Nonprofits have unique accounting challenges. And the best way to solve those challenges is to use nonprofit accounting software. Nonprofit accounting software can streamline, simplify, and strengthen your budgeting, forecasting, HR management, grant management, and fundraising. The software can also provide internal controls over your financial data, helping you secure and protect your information.

Create an Annual Operating Budget

Every organization needs a budget, whether you’re a nonprofit or for-profit. Each year you should create a realistic operating budget that you can adhere to as much as possible.

 

The Future of Accounting: Will it Still Exist

With the imminent rise of artificial intelligence, a wide variety of professions will be at risk of becoming obsolete within the next 20 years. With this in mind, many business owners and number crunchers alike are asking themselves, “what is the future of accounting?”

The robots are coming

Let’s be honest, accountants have a tough job earning the career respect they deserve. Few children admit to wanting to be an accountant when they grow up, while firefighter, teacher and astronaut remain at the top of the list. Even lawyers, who get similar flak, have an easier ride than the humble accountant, who tends to be pigeonholed and stereotyped as, (can I say it?) boring!

The forest AND the trees

Another thing I’ve learned through running a business is that I’m really not a details person. If you’re a type N on the Myers-Briggs scale like me (25% of the population), you often miss the details in favour of observing patterns and seeing the bigger picture. I need to work closely with people who do details well. Finding people with complementary abilities is crucial to building a successful team.

Accounting firms need to evolve to survive

One thing we know for sure is that technology is changing the future of accounting in business. Cloud accounting packages like Xero and QBO have made accounting software finally accessible from anywhere on any device. But they also present it in a way business owners can actually understand! Running Sage on a dusty computer in the corner of the office is now, for most, a thing of the past.

The role of the accountant is about giving business owners the peace of mind that they’re not making a horrible mistake somewhere and ending up with an unexpectedly large tax bill, fines, or even a prison sentence. Having an outside third party (human) perspective on how the books are being run is such a valuable asset that I can’t imagine that need will ever go away, no matter how automated things become.

 

Accountant Top Needed Skills

A well-crafted resume skills section, highlighting your relevant skills for an accountant position, will help your resume beat the applicant tracking system (ATS), which is the first step to getting your application noticed. Use the accountant top skills and proficiencies below to help you effectively write your resume.

Accountant top skills & proficiencies:

Accounting

Corporate finance

Attention to detail

Deadline-oriented

Reporting research results

Confidentiality

Time management

Data entry management

Basic math

Accuracy

Planning and organizing

Scheduling and monitoring

Communication skills

Problem analysis and problem-solving skills

Initiative

Teamwork

Active learning

Clerical knowledge

Proficiency with Microsoft Office

Professionalism

 

Excel skills wannabe accountants need to know

Excel is an incredibly powerful tool for accountants, and it is a key skill that any budding accountant should try to become familiar with. If you’re a newly qualified accountant, an accountancy student or are a business owner who wants a better handle on their finances, here are some of our top Excel tips for accounting and finance professionals.

VLOOKUP and HLOOKUP

VLOOKUP and HLOOKUP are two of the most useful Excel functions for accountants. These functions let you search a table of data and give all the appropriate information for an individual set of data based on only one part of it.

HLOOKUP

Another important excel formula for accountants and finance professionals is HLOOKUP. Taken directly from the Office site, here’s what the HLOOKUP formula does

Paste options that could prevent errors

This is a useful excel skill that everyone needs to know! Have you ever hit ‘paste’ and been left with a sheet full of errors? Try Paste > Special instead! You’ll be able to transpose data, copy data validation and more with paste options. Click the drop-down menu next to the paste button to see what options are available, or paste as special when you right click.

Learn keyboard shortcuts

Keyboard shortcuts are essential for anyone who uses Excel regularly. They improve efficiency by turning multiple-click processes into one easy button press (including the one above).

 

Big ambitions – starting your own practice

It may be just a dream when you are studying, but once you qualify you may seriously consider setting up on your own. Iwona Tokc-Wilde looks at what this entails

Despite the global economic turmoil of the last few years, the number of business start-ups has been rising steadily around the world, with some countries reporting record figures.

As business confidence around the world is now growing, both trends – the rise in business start-ups and the corresponding need for small accountancy and bookkeeping firms – are likely to continue, so this is a big opportunity for those nearing qualification.

Compliance is key

First of all, you must comply with all the rules and regulations required for opening and running an accountancy practice, including being fully licensed to take on this sort of work.

ACCA’s Global Practising Regulations 2003 require any member who is a principal in an accountancy practice to hold an ACCA practising certificate (students are not permitted to start and run a public practice), even if the member holds a local licence for the region in which they practise. ACCA’s definition of public practice work extends beyond audit and other regulated work, to incorporate all types of work generally associated with an accountancy practice, but excluding bookkeeping services.

A Professional Local Moving Company Is Your Answer To A Stress Free Move

Movers•by •Posted

Moving Tricks for a Fast, Painless Move

Moving can be fun, but packing sucks. The luster and optimism of a new home quickly diminishes when you’re busy shoving your stuff in boxes so it doesn’t break on the way. Here are some tips to make it all easier.

Full disclosure, I’m moving right now, so consider this a dose of “physician, heal thyself,” but these are some of the tricks that have helped me so far—and some things to remember for your next move as well.

It’s easy to say “don’t wait until the last minute” to start packing and planning for your move, but that’s not really enough. Instead, get an early start. When I started packing for this move, it was probably well over a month in advance, and I don’t regret it one bit. Starting early gives you the freedom to move boxes around your house so they’re not in your way, take your time and pace yourself, and above all, avoid that panicked crunch the week before (or even the night before) you move where you stay up until 4am packing, knowing the movers will show up at 9am, and you have a full, long day ahead of you.

Get Good Boxes, for Free or Otherwise

Don’t try to move all of your prized possessions in a beat up Amazon boxes that have already been through the system once on their way to you. You don’t have to pay for boxes—there are plenty of people looking to get rid of their boxes on Craigslist and local Freecycle forums. You can score good, quality boxes from your office or from local businesses like liquor stores and bookstores without paying a dime.

Purge Before You Start Packing, and Purge As You Go

It’s never too early to start throwing away the crap you don’t want to move. Seriously—do it as soon as you know you’re going to move, and then don’t stop chucking the nonsense until the day the movers show up. As our own Thorin Klosowski noted when he moved across country, he had a lot of stuff, and the best thing you can do is throw it all away or sell it, and then recoup what you actually need on the other end.

 

The Start-to-Finish Guide for Moving to a New Place

Moving sucks. There’s really no way around that, but it can be a lot more tolerable and a lot less stressful. Here’s a look at our best recommendations for an easier and more efficient move.

A lot of moving generally takes place over the next few months, and while everyone’s experience and needs vary a little, a lot of the work involved in moving is the same no matter who you are. There’s a lot to go over, so feel free to skip around:

Preparation

Packing

Labeling and Managing Your Inventory

Moving In

Preparation

There is so much to do in preparation for your move: set up mail forwarding, change over your utilities, acquire packing supplies, and so on. The move, itself, is really the easy part as you’ll spend most of your time packing and unpacking. If you want everything else to go as smoothly as possible, you’ll need to prepare well. It’s a time-consuming and detailed process, but it’ll ultimately make your move significantly more simple and less stressful.

Transferring Your Information

Before you move, be sure you know all the utilities you’re responsible for and make the transfers. The further in advance you can make the call the better, as sometimes certain utility companies will not be able to come out the next day to make the switch. Another switch you can make in advance is filling out a change of address form, which you can do online. If you change your address online, be sure you have a credit card that uses your current address as the billing address, since that’s how the postal service verifies the request.

Finding Packing Supplies On the Cheap

There are a lot of places to buy packing supplies, but boxes and tape can add up to quite a bit of money. You can avoid this additional cost by hitting up one of quite a few places handing out free boxes. Most retailers receive a lot of shipments, but your best bet is to contact furniture stores. While your average retailer may be able to provide you with some used boxes, you’ll be able to find a greater range of sizes from furniture stores. Be sure to call them up at least a week in advance of when you want to start packing, however, as box disposal isn’t necessarily a daily task. If your friends are moving before you, another way to get used boxes is to ask them to give them to you when they’re finished. You may also be able to find boxes in the office you work in, or ask a friend to bring home any boxes they can find at the office.

 

Move with Confidence

Moving can be a stressful experience. Movers near you can help you organize your move and take care of the many in’s and out’s that cause the stress in the first place. When you ask yourself, are there any movers near me

family and its worldwide agency network have been providing award-winning moving and storage services. If you are currently in the market for the best moving services

  1. Use Ball Park Move Cost Estimator to immediately determine the cost range for your move. Just a few clicks on our moving van lines website, and you can receive an accurate move cost estimate.
  2. Schedule an In-home move estimate to get a personalized and accurate move quote based on a full survey of the household items you plan to move.
  3. Try Virtual Move Survey to get a move estimate without the need for to visit your home. Using your mobile phone, can connect, remotely survey your household items, and deliver a fast and accurate move quote.

Moving Tips and Tools

Got You Covered Every Step Of The Way

resource center can help make your move seamless. From moving guides to web-based video tips, provides all the information you’ll need to know to help prepare you for your upcoming move.

 

Moving Company

personally spent time packing houses, loading trucks, time with the customers, and time learning the business…..a lot of late nights and long weekends. rode the highs of the housing boom and stayed lean during the economic downturns. have moved small apartments and 10,000 square foot homes

Who moves

Everyone: Young and old. Black and white. Gay and straight. Sometimes a combination of all the above. Everyone is a moving customer.  Which one are you?

When

People move year round. All hours of the day. Usually during work hours.Sometimes when their soon to be ex-partner is at work. Most of the time they move the day before they are ready to be moved.  Let get you ready.

What do people move

Usually boxes and furniture. And appliances. Sometimes a child’s small toy or a man’s big stuffed animal. been asked to move a live animal. But really…people move memories / things they love / or junk they just have not found time to get rid of. Please tell your most interesting item to move

Where do people move

People move nearby, across the city, across the state. Sometimes the same apartment complex.Sometimes the house next door. Sometimes from the attic to the living room. can do it all

 

MOVING COMPANY

As local and long distance movers in area, we can handle your move, large or small. Every home, client and move is unique, and totally get that. Let tailor services to meet your specific needs and concerns. Whether you need a full service move or just some help unloading your truck,

you can count on receiving the exact mix of expert local and long distnat moving services you’ll need from. Just give a call and will provide you with a free estimate and help you book your moving dates. You won’t have to worry about a thing. Count on to deliver, as promised, carefully planned and competitively priced moving services.

Apartment Moves:

have got apartment moves down. can help you with moving a studio and up to four-bedroom apartments. These jobs are usually simple and completed in a few hours on the same day.

Loading and Unloading Rental Trucks:

are happy to help you load or unload your rental trucks. You rent the truck and we will provide the rest. Don’t waste any time. professional team can tackle your truck in a snap!

House Moves:

can help you in moving few items or with full packing moving services. can help you move out of your home in 2 – 6 hours using a crew of 2 to 4 men. Now doesn’t that sound E-Z?

Here’s How To Find The Best Mold Inspection For You

Home Inspection•by •Posted

Residential Mold Inspection

mold inspections and house mold testing services involve the use of our extensive knowledge of mold and mildew (black mold, black toxic mold, Stachybotrys, and other molds) and the conditions conducive to home mold growth as well as building construction, air flows, building materials, and heating ventilation and air-conditioning systems.

residential mold inspections and mold testing with the following goals:

Test for Mold – Determine mold types present and airborne concentration levels (Most people want to know what they are breathing.)

Locate and detect hidden mold growth, including black  toxic mold;

Locate the source or cause of home mold growth or mildew;

Locate hidden water intrusion sources and moisture issues which may be causing or contributing to indoor mold growth or black mold growth;

Detect and locate plumbing leaks;

Inspect and assess water damage;

Inspect and assess black mold contamination and black mold exposure;

Inspect and assess mold contamination in HVAC systems and ductwork;

Assess the issues discovered thoroughly enough to provide our clients with good information and recommendations as to the cause(s) of the mold contamination and the possible remedies;

Collect air and/or surface mold samples, as needed, to determine types of home molds present and the black mold exposure levels or mold concentration levels;

Accurate licensed mold laboratory result interpretation.

comprehensive Residential Mold Inspection Services may include:

Black Mold Exposure Assessment

Moisture Intrusion Investigation

HVAC (Air-Conditioning Systems and Ductwork) Mold Inspection and Mold Testing

Water Damage Inspection and Evaluation (for repair or insurance)

Leak Detection Investigation

Microbiological and Bioaerosol Testing

Bulk, Swab or Surface, and Airborne Mold Testing

Moisture Testing of Building Materials

Indoor Air Quality Evaluation and Testing

Preparing Scope of Work Reports and Mold Remediation Protocols per the Department of State Health Services Rules and Regulation

Contents Restoration Assessments and Scopes of Work

Post Mold Remediation Clearance Inspections and Testing

Issuance of a Mold Certificate – The Certificate of Mold Damage Remediation was prepared by the Department of Insurance

 

Mold Removal / Mold Remediation

Molds are fungi that live both outdoors and indoors. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there are as many as 300,000 different species of mold. Mold grows and reproduces quickly in damp, warm conditions. Mold can grow on almost any surface from insulation to paint.

Many species of mold are harmless, but others can cause serious health issues. An example is Stachybotrys chartarum, also known as black mold, which produces poisonous mycotoxins. Any kind of mold can be a grave issue for people who have underlying illnesses like asthma and allergies. Appropriate precautions are advised to avoid exposing yourself and your family to additional mold spores. When in doubt, seek professional assistance.

Signs of Mold

There are a variety of different signs that can indicate a mold problem in your home.

A Damp, Musty Smell

Have you noticed a damp, musty smell in your home recently? This is a clear sign that you might have a mold problem. You should definitely investigate musty odors. Professional mold testing can help you to pinpoint the source.

Visible Mold

If you see black mold on your walls, carpet or other surfaces, then you definitely have a mold problem. The downside is that at this point, you probably have a large amount of mold present in areas that are not easily seen. For example, if you see black mold on your carpet, you probably have it underneath in the padding and floor, as well.

 

Mold Inspection

mold inspection and mold testing services leverage our extensive knowledge of mold and mildew (black mold, black toxic mold, Stachybotrys, and other molds) and the conditions conducive to mold growth as well as building construction, air flows, building materials, and heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems.

Moisture Detection

Where find mold, we find moisture. By locating the source of moisture and identifying hidden water intrusion sources can focus mold investigation in the right areas.

Infrared Technology

use FLIR infrared camera technology to enhance inspection services. This advanced, non-invasive technology allows inspectors to zero in and identify potential sources of moisture to more accurately determine testing and sampling investigations

Certified Mold Inspectors

value certification, education, and experience. Performing quality mold inspections requires all three. Each of inspectors, consultants, and project managers is a Certified Mold Inspector (ACAC and/or MICRO).

No Conflict of Interest

don’t perform mold remediation, repair, or construction. have no vested interest in the outcome of inspections other than to ensure you have the information needed to return your home or office to a healthy state

 

Common Causes of Attic Mold

Bathroom mold, kitchen mold, basement mold, these areas tend to get all the hype, but there is another area that property owners need to be aware of, too, the attic. Mold found in attic areas can be challenging at times when trying to pinpoint the exact cause and source of mold growth.

Roof Leaks

Yes, you guessed it, at the top of our list is roof leaks. Several issues can occur around the flashing or the area where the roof plane meets a vertical surface like a vent or a chimney. Missing, deteriorated, or improperly install flashing among other penetration points and inadequate roof repairs are the most common causes of roof leaks. Water seepage also occurs when the roof is beyond the end of its life span. An annual inspection of your roof by a roofing specialist and routine maintenance can prevent leaks in a roof system, effectively reducing the likelihood of mold growth in your attic.

Inadequate Roof Ventilation

Without adequate ventilation, moisture-laden air can remain in attic areas. Often, this will cause elevated moisture conditions around the roof framing and roof sheathing. During cold winter months, for example, condensation can occur on the cold roof sheathing creating this damp environment. You may think otherwise, but it is important to keep your attic cool during colder months.

Another common cause of inadequate ventilation is when your soffit vents are blocked by debris. This could be debris from trees, roofing materials, birds’ nest, or insulation – when it is blown into the attic. If proper care is not taken during this time, the insulation can end up blocking the soffit vents. Soffit vents are critical in a passive ventilation system to circulate air from the lower portion of the attic (intake vents) to the upper roof vents (exhaust vents).

Bath or Kitchen Exhaust Fans Vented into the Attic

Exhaust fans should be vented directly to the exterior of the home, and surprisingly we often find this is not the case. When an exhaust fan is missing its exhaust duct, or if the duct has become separated, the exhaust is then vented directly into the attic space, similar to the situation above meaning the warm damp air is trapped creating the ideal atmosphere for microbial growth. In this case, it’s important to correct the issue an re-route the vents to the outside.

Missing or Inadequate Attic Insulation

Attic insulation is key in not only energy conservation, but proper levels can also reduce the chance of mold growth in attic areas. As air travels up through a structure, insulation provides a barrier slowing the rate of conditioned air loss in an attic area. When an attic is missing insulation, the air movement increases significantly, and the influx of warm air can, once again, cause condensation on cold roof sheathing. This type of moisture condition resulting from condensation is a catalyst for mold growth. It’s important to check your insulation and make sure that you have even and adequate coverage throughout the entire attic, especially in the lower-north-side areas

 

DO YOU REALLY NEED A MOLD INSPECTION OR TESTING?

You need three things for mold to grow:

Moisture

Relative Humidity Above 60%

A food source such as drywall or wood

One other thing which fits this category would be time.

Some mold can generally start growing within 24-48 hours, however, there are certain types of mold spores that can take much longer to grow. Those are usually the more dangerous types of mold aka “black mold”.

Once you have those three presents, any mold spores floating around in the air will attach itself to the water damaged building material and start growing.

Do you need a mold inspection? This is a yes and no question. There are many different reasons why you may want to have a mold testing and inspection, but it ultimately fits into one of two categories:

You need it because you may have mold in your home

You need it because you want peace of mind

Pros And Cons Of Purchasing A Vacation Rentals Cleaning

Cleaning•by •Posted

Escapes Cleaning Policy

take many preventative measures to ensure the health of everyone we are so grateful to serve.  On a daily basis, we’re working to ensure that vacation rentals meet the latest guidance on hygiene and cleaning.

Wiping Down

Wiping down all electronics, drawer pulls, door knobs, handles etc.

Washing Hands

Washing hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

Avoiding Touching

Eyes, nose, and mouth, as well as shaking hands.

Hospital Grade

Sanitizers and disinfectants used throughout the cleaning process.

All Employees

Who display symptoms of illness must seek medical assistance and stay home.

Follow “American Chemistry Council’s”

Guidelines for cleaning in commercial settings list in between guest stays.

team of housekeeping professionals follow protocol and always look for ways to improve upon their craft.  Every vacation rental is inspected prior to our guest arrival to ensure it meets our standards.

 

Booking a Vacation Rental Is Complicated This Summer. Here’s How to Stay Safe and Get a Good Deal

Vacation rentals around the world bottomed out at the beginning April as COVID-19 wreaked havoc on the global economy. New bookings in the U.S. plummeted to 252,000 in the first week of April, down from 625,000 during the first week of March, according to short-term rental data tracker AirDNA.

But as cities across the globe have loosened stay-at-home orders, the vacation rental market has rebounded phenomenally. According to AirDNA, summer bookings for short-term rentals surged 127% between April 5 and May 18, reaching close to pre-COVID levels.

relieved that she’s received an uptick in new reservations — and she didn’t have to reduce her rates. The upshot? Although the coronavirus pandemic forced millions of Americans to stay cooped up in their homes for months, there are plenty of ways to get away this summer.

Look for price cuts

“Right now you can get extremely good deals,” says Jasper Ribbers, co-founder of the Short-Term Rental Profit Academy, a company that helps hosts provide better hospitality experiences. “In most cities demand is still going to be significantly lower than supply,” says Ribbers, who expects discounts of up to 30% this summer.

In turn, “cabin rentals and lake houses are in strong demand because they’re isolated, so they’re going to charge higher rates,”

 

vacation rental

trained housekeepers follow a comprehensive cleaning procedure after every stay, including sanitizing and disinfecting for your protection.

Better management means better vacations

Our property listings are crafted to help you find exactly what you’re looking for and ensure you know exactly what you’ll get. goal is to deliver an amazing experience and earn your five-star review, and that starts by helping you choose the perfect home for your vacation.

Stay comfortably

Before you arrive, professional housekeepers thoroughly clean and stock your home. And when you get there, check-in is easy. Smart locks and lockboxes let you go straight to the door and walk right in at most of our properties.

 

Avoid These Airbnb and Vacation Rental Host Cleaning Mistakes

The inevitable parts of owning a rental property are the tasks that come before and after guests leave – cleaning, scrubbing, washing, and dusting. For some of us, cleaning is a “trigger” word; for others, it’s not so daunting.

The Rush Job

We’ve all done it. Procrastination, extended senioritis, or just plain not wanting to do something is part of being human. It’s not usually a big issue, but it becomes a problem when it’s the default setting – in all aspects of life.

Assuming Your Cleaners are Mind Readers

There is absolutely no shame in hiring a cleaning company to take charge of scrubbing down your home after guests depart. After all, cleaning is their profession, so they know what they’re doing.

The Scatter-Brained Cleanse

Similar to the rush job, a scattered cleaning leaves potential for a peppering of mistakes. Being a host can be stressful as there are often unexpected situations that arise. Distractions are hard to avoid these days and multitasking has not only become the norm, but a necessity as well.

Thinking “Good Enough” is Enough

There are certain areas of life that we as humans need to let go of and forget our obsessions with perfection. But when it comes to taking a vacation rental seriously, the good should be better, and better should be the best.

High Expectations of Renters

We mentioned that it’s never safe to assume your renters are pristine and intuitively tidy. As they say, prepare for the worst, but still hope for the best.

 

VACATION RENTAL MANAGEMENT

CLEANING SERVICES

Making sure your vacation rental is cleaned and ready for the next visitor is one of the most important part of our vacation rental management services.

MAINTENANCE

We’ve got all maintenance services covered; from yard work and handyman tasks, to major repairs and renovations. Keeping your vacation rental in top shape all year round is part of what we do best!

PAYMENTS

Making a profit from your vacation rental is the most rewarding aspects of owning a vacation property.

LISTINGS

Rest easy with our à la carte vacation rental services, where we can either list on your behalf or you can opt for doing the listings yourself!

YOUR VACATION RENTAL PROPERTY IS IN GOOD HANDS!

Vacation property owners can rest assured knowing that their vacation homes are completely protected while increasing the profits of their rental income.

Questions To Ask Before Choosing A Residential Roofing

Roofing•by •Posted

Quality Roofing Services

This means the work is getting done, and it limits workplace accidents or mishaps. Instead, everyone is focused on the end goal, which is a perfect roof for you!

have experience working with all types of asphalt shingles, which are the most common type of roofing. This covers most homes and businesses. There is something for everyone since they come in dozens of colors and styles. It can match up with just about anything

This is true regardless of if you are an individual or a business. We put the same care into both types of jobs, and have all the most popular products to choose from when you prefer to work with us. Single ply or metal roofs are popular on properties, and we have worked with both of these materials for many years.

 

 

Residential Roofing

Your Home Deserves The Best

teams of professional roofing contractors are seasoned industry pros who know exactly what they’re doing. You can be confident in knowing that every single roofing team member we employ has earned their place

Roofing Cleanup Process:

During the project, our roofing contractors will relocate any outdoor furniture, BBQs, moveable planters, etc. so they don’t get damaged or dirty. We also use tarps to cover and protect your things. When we’re done, we clean up everything. We use large industrial brooms, leaf blowers, and powerful magnets to make sure every single piece of loose and unwanted material is fully tidied up… We even make sure your gutters are clean.

What’s more, you won’t even have a dumpster bin sitting awkwardly on your property. We dispose of all waste materials directly into actual dump trucks that literally drive away at the end of the day

Residential Roofing

Premium quality roofing for a fair price and in good time is what we specialize in. We use only the best materials that are backed by a solid warranty and installed by some of the very best in the business.

Siding

Roofs & siding go together like peanut butter & jelly, so we make sure the siding we provide you with is equally as good as the roofs we install.

 

 

Residential Roof Repair

Did you discover a leak in your roof and you’re not sure how to handle it? Or maybe your building was directly in the path of a recent storm and you found roofing materials all over your yard after the wind and the hail passed by. No matter the cause of your roofing problems

which means that there’s no roofing problem we won’t take on and tackle for you. We understand that our work goes beyond fixing holes in roofs. When your roof isn’t doing its job, life can feel stressful and difficult. Getting it replaced can be a hassle, too. That’s why we recognize that our work makes your life easier and frees your energy so you can focus on the things you life.

start by assessing your roof, using drone technology if necessary, to determine exactly what needs to be done to get it back up to your high standards. We’ll write up an estimate for you and help you deal with your insurance company if that is relevant. There’s no roof problem we won’t help you overcome.

Shingle replacement. Have shingles been coming off your roof for a while now? Maybe you find them in your yard or you notice them missing when you’re up on your roof for some reason.

Fascia repair. The fascia is the part of your roof that usually hangs out, over your home. This protects the lower edges of the roof, and it can be easily damaged by weather or wear out as your roof gets old. It can be prone to mold and mildew damage, too. If you notice these areas looking saggy or waterlogged

 

Your Toughest Roofing Questions Answered

Covering Your Roof Issues

Putting a safe roof over your head isn’t necessarily a one-time deal. Shingles stain, condensation collects, and high winds carry roofs wherever they please

Spot a Failing Roof

How do you know when an asphalt shingle roof needs replacement? Are there clues to look for before telltale water stains appear on our plaster ceilings?

There are several clues, and the biggest one is age. If your roof is more than 20 years old, there’s a good chance it’s due for replacement. But younger roofs can fail too, so it’s a good idea to inspect a roof at least once a year. Don’t use a ladder, though. Binoculars are easier and a lot safer, and you can spot most problems from the ground.

The Importance of Roof Pitch

Everything being equal (ventilation, shingle type, climate, etc.), which roof will last longer: one with a steep pitch or one with a shallow pitch? Seems to me a steep hillside erodes more quickly than a low slope, so I’d think that roof shingles would wear out more quickly on a steeply sloped roof.

It’s difficult to say. On one hand, a steep roof is less likely to collect leaves and other debris that hold moisture against the shingles and invite the growth of moss and algae. On the other hand, that same roof in an unshaded area facing due south will take the full brunt of the sun, which is hard on any roof.

Up Under the Roof

We have a major leakage problem and are getting a new roof. What is the best underlayment to protect the valleys in my roof from leaking: ice and shield guard, metal flashing, or double rolled shingles?

First, your roofers should lay down an ice and water shield over the entire roof. Made of polyethylene and rubberized asphalt, this membrane prevents water that has slipped under shingles from penetrating to ceilings below. The valleys should then be covered with metal flashing or weaving. I would also recommend two layers of the ice and water shield on the lower section of the roof (along the eaves), around chimneys and beside the dormers.

Roof Plan, or Roof Scam?

My friend has a new 9,000-square-foot home and has had problems with the roof leaking. The roofing man and two painting guys have told her that the caulk on her roof was the source of the problem. They told her that she should have it checked every six months for cracking and possible replacement because the caulk doesn’t last long. I have never heard of this before and was wondering if they are pulling her leg or if this is a real problem?

I’ve got to tell you, it sounds like they’re pulling your leg. You shouldn’t need any caulking on a roof with proper flashing. You need a second opinion.

 

RESIDENTIAL ROOF REPAIR

Ice storms, rain, wind, sun, mold and more can wreak havoc on your roof. Whether Mother Nature or Father Time strikes first, your Green Bay roof will need repair at some point.

repairs residential and commercial roofs each and every day all across. Overhead Solutions repairs roof leaks, drainage problems, shrinkage, punctures and faulty flashing. Whether your roof damage has escalated over the years or a tree has suddenly collapsed, Overhead Solutions is ready to repair your roof.

REPUTABLE ROOF REPLACEMENT

If you’re looking for a new roof look no further than the roofing contractors at Overhead Solutions. Our roofers perform warrantied residential roof replacement services all across

new roof replacement jobs are completed according to strict manufacturer standards so you stay covered under every available warranty.

COMPLETE ROOF CONSTRUCTION

If damage to your roof is so extensive it needs to be rebuilt, if you’re making an addition to your home, or if you’re just building a new home you need roofers you can trust. Roof construction is more than laying shingles. Hanging rafters and constructing dormers requires trained professionals like the ones at Overhead Solutions