How To Improve The Look Of Your Home With Custom Hardwood Flooring

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Choose Engineered Hardwood Flooring

Flooring plays a role in how your home feels because it can completely transform the space. Many people choose hardwood floors to bring a natural and elegant look into their homes. Solid hardwood is a traditional option, but there is also another choice to consider — engineered hardwood.

What Is Engineered Hardwood Flooring?

Engineered hardwood is made out of layers of wood compressed together in a criss-cross construction. These layers are a thin strip of real durable wood species on top of high-grade plywood.

One of engineered hardwood’s greatest strengths is its ability to stand up to humidity and moisture. The plywood is stable enough that it won’t flex and bend in the presence of moisture. Its durability means it won’t contract and expand with the changing seasons, so the floor won’t warp or cup over time. As a homeowner, you can enjoy hardwood without moisture concerns.

Because of this construction, you have more freedom with engineered hardwood. This flooring can go in rooms that solid hardwood could not, such as a below-grade basement, the kitchen or bathrooms, as long as these spaces do not have major problems with moisture.

Perhaps the best feature is engineered hardwood’s price tag. In many cases, engineered hardwood is more cost-effective than solid hardwood. It is an affordable wood flooring option for a large space, such as your living room.

 

Engineered Hardwood

Pros

Engineered hardwood flooring offers great durability, much like solid hardwood flooring. Less expensive options with fewer layers should last between 20 and 40 years, and higher-end varieties with more layers can last from 40 to 80 years with proper maintenance. Another major pro of engineered hardwood is that its layered construction makes it relatively resistant to moisture damage (certainly more so than solid hardwood). This makes engineered hardwood a suitable flooring material for almost any room in your home, including those that are below grade. And while it can be nailed down to a subflooring, like solid hardwood, engineered hardwood can also be installed as a “floating” floor, where the planks are glued or snapped together and not affixed to the surface below. This allows engineered hardwood to be installed atop existing flooring materials, such as linoleum, vinyl, or even tile, and also allows for installation on top of concrete. Engineered hardwood is also more environmentally friendly than solid hardwood. Due to the fact that it uses less hardwood overall in its construction, it requires fewer trees be cut down for manufacturing. Given its good durability and wide market appeal, engineered hardwood is a great investment in your home.

Cons

Although engineered hardwood can be sanded and refinished, this can only be done a handful of times at most because of the limited thickness of the hardwood veneer. So, although you can expect a long lifespan out of your engineered hardwood, it doesn’t quite have the longevity of solid planks. For this reason, major damage to part of the floor may require replacing individual planks rather than resurfacing the entire floor. This is really the only downside of engineered hardwood flooring, and it can be mitigated to a great extent with some basic care and maintenance.

 

Types of Engineered Hardwood Floors

Engineered hardwood comes in a wide variety of beautiful wood selections, such as:

  • Hickory
  • Birch
  • Maple
  • Red oak
  • White oak
  • Walnut
  • Cherry
  • Brazillian cherry
  • Bamboo
  • And more

Each of these wood species will bring a different look to your home. Our technician will work with you to decide which engineered wood best suits your needs.

 

Should you float, nail, staple, or glue your engineered hardwood?

There are different factors that come into play when making this decision. It depends on the type of surface over which you are installing the floor. It also depends on the environment where you live. Is this a retrofit or new construction?

You should install a floating engineered hardwood when you need flexibility. Installing a floating engineered hardwood floor works well at any grade level and over most types of subfloor surfaces. A floating engineered wood flooring installation on concrete can be an excellent choice if your subfloor is below grade. It’s also a great option if you choose to incorporate a radiant heat system.* (Don’t forget the vapor retarder!)

In contrast, gluing hardwood to concrete provides you with a very permanent solution. Gluing works well when you are installing engineered hardwood over a concrete subfloor, but be sure you clearly understand the manufacturer’s application instructions before you glue that floor.

Plan to nail down the engineered hardwood flooring when you have a wood subfloor. As long as you use the correct pneumatic nail gun, this technique provides the installer with a simple and controlled approach to the installation.

 

Hardwood Floor Maintenance

For most hardwoods, the maintenance is the same regardless of size, finish, or wood species. The floor should be swept or vacuumed without a beater bar as needed and damp mopped with a cleanser made for wood floors. If necessary, throw rugs can be used to prevent scratches or scuffs. If a surface finish is used, reapplication and buffing may be required every five to ten years.

Clean spills immediately to avoid moisture damage. Don’t use steam mops on hardwood floors since they can cause irreversible damage. Protect the floor by using furniture on the legs of any movable furniture pieces like couches.

Key Requirements In A Wedding Photographer

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Best Wedding Photography Tips For Beginners

You just booked your first wedding.

Now what?

Maybe you’re feeling a little nervous – worried about lighting the reception, posing a slightly-awkward couple, or choosing the right lens for the ceremony.

We’re not going to help you with any of that. Time, experience, and experimentation will earn you your style and technique.

To rock your first wedding, there’s one thing you must do: prepare for chaos. These wedding photography tips for beginners will help you do just that!

Tip #1: Make It Legal

One of the biggest beginner mistakes a photographer can make when photographing weddings is not having a signed contract. When you have a legally binding contract, it sets an agreement between you and the client.

When your client signs a contract, it means they agree with your role and responsibilities for the wedding. The contract clearly states your tasks and what your clients will receive. It serves as a protection to both parties, especially since there’s money involved.

If you haven’t already, make your booking legit with a signed contract and paid retainer. You can do both through ShootProof, using an attorney-drafted contract template from ShootProof’s Marketplace and the Invoices feature.

If you’ve already collected a signed contract and retainer: congratulations! Level up!

Tip #2: Keep Your Lines of Communication Open

Behind every scheduled wedding photography shoot is a series of inquiries, bookings, and payment discussions. It all starts with effective communication so that you can do all the necessary preparations and set expectations with the client. Make sure that clients have a way to contact you; may it be through phone, email, or social media.

Respond Quickly

When you’re just starting out, it can feel scary replying to messages. There are cases when the client won’t respond right away, which might make you nervous that you said something wrong.

Don’t worry, this is normal. Remember, your couples are in the middle of planning a wedding, so they have a lot going on! Even though they might take awhile to reply to you, it’s important that you focus on answering them as quickly as possible. The better the experience you provide them throughout the process, the more likely they are to refer you to friends!

Send a Questionnaire

Leading up to the wedding, send your couple a detailed questionnaire asking questions to help you fully understand what will be happening on their wedding day. Make sure you know exactly what time coverage begins, the locations you need to be throughout the day, the names of important family members and those in the wedding party, any specific images your client envisioned, and when coverage ends.

Additionally, use questionnaires to learn more about your couple. Find out where they met, their proposal story, and why they chose their specific wedding venue. All of these unique details are great to use when creating a blog post after the event!

Set Up a Meeting

About 2-3 weeks out from the wedding, set up a meeting to connect with your couple. This can either be done in person or on a FaceTime call, depending on what’s most convenient for them and you.

It’s great to actually have face-to-face time with your client before the big day, especially if you didn’t do an engagement shoot with them. This gives you an opportunity to review the timeline in person, ask them any last minute questions, and help relieve any nerves they might have.

Tip #3: Cooperate With Other Vendors

Other wedding vendors are going to be your best partners at the event. They can either make the job easier or harder, so it’s important that you treat them with respect throughout the entirety of the event. After the event, you can continue building a relationship with them for future weddings!

Tip #4: Hire An Assistant

No, not a second shooter (though you may have one of those, too). Hire an assistant.

Your photo assistant can:

  • Carry and/or guard your gear
  • Help set up equipment if you’re using lights or tripods
  • Smooth trains, fluff hair, and re-pin boutonnieres
  • Bring you a bottle of water so you don’t pass out

Tip #5: Prepare Your Emergency Kit

An emergency kit can help streamline the photography process and enhance your clients’ experience!

Larger emergency kits may contain rain ponchos, first aid kits, bug spray, crochet needles (for dress buttons), makeup basics, spare bow ties, lighters, a list of emergency phone numbers (backup vendors and photographers), and more. Your imagination is the limit!

Don’t overburden yourself but pack what makes you feel prepared and comfortable. Your assistant can help you manage this extra bag!

 

Groom’s Preparations

Sidelight for males works well

Men look great when lit from the side, even if the light is harsh. An easy way to accomplish this is to find a window with light streaming through it, then expose for the highlights.

When I’ve found an interesting composition with my camera settings dialed in, I’ll get the groom in place, and either get them to look out the window, or if the sun is too harsh, fiddle with their pocket square, watch, or whatever else that feels natural to them.

Try the Gangta-Groomsmen* shot

Similar to the tip above, I’ll take the groomsmen into the harsh morning light and position them all so that the sun is hitting part of their face.

Then it’s just a case of underexposing so the highlights are preserved and the shadows are black, and instructing the groomsmen to pretend they’re bouncers on a nightclub door!

This is also a handy way to disguise whatever ugly background they’re standing near, since everything without the sun hitting it falls into complete darkness.

Get the groom used to your proximity

This applies to the bride as well, but if you’re an up-close-and-personal photographer with your 35mm or 24mm lens, it’s good to get the client used to your proximity nice and early.

Since grooms won’t be sitting still having make up applied, it can feel awkward for you when you try to get really close to him for the shot.

Just like you did with the bride, you can explain that “often I won’t even be photographing you, but rather, I’ll be shooting the person in the background.”

When the groom is used to you being close, the rest of the day will pass much more comfortably for both you and him, and you’ll be able to get those candid, real moments you’re aiming for.

 

Buffer Your Schedule

Falling behind with your schedule is very detrimental on how many images you may receive. As you can imagine, delays can be stressful and won’t be very fun. There will always be something that will come up that will cause you to rearrange your plans. If you allot additional time creating the schedule for your day, you’ll be in a much better place when the unforeseen happens. Hair and Make-up are notorious for consuming more time than planned. Additionally, some tasks that may seem small could potentially take much longer than anticipated. Late bridal party members, late flowers, someone forgetting something, etc can all cause the schedule to come to a pause.

Begin Early

Time and time again the biggest hang-up we see is couples beginning to get ready far later than they need to be. Prepare for the unexpected by allowing yourself extra time for your wedding day. The earlier that you are dressed and ready to go, the more photographs can be taken. There is a dramatic difference in the amount of portrait photographs that you’ll receive between couples who begin photos early and those who schedule with just a minimum amount of time.

Start your wedding day early. Just do it. You’ll be more relaxed, you’ll remember more, you’ll enjoy yourself, and it’ll counter any schedule issues that may arise. If you end up having extra time, kick back with your bridal party over some champagne. Beginning your day early

 

HAVE A ‘FIRST LOOK’

We love first looks because they’re incredibly intimate and special, allowing the couple a few moments alone with each other in an otherwise crowded and busy day. First looks typically happen in a quiet area, away from guests, bridal party members, and family. We set up the groom facing away from the bride. We then have the bride approach him from behind and tap on the shoulder. It always provides a great moment between the couple.

The First Look is by far the best way to leverage time for your wedding day. Scheduling one earlier in the day will allow for freedom for you and your photographer to grab many of the portrait shots that traditionally occur after the ceremony. The last big plus for a first look is that you’ll be able to transition from the ceremony to reception quickly, preventing the guests from having to wait around too long for the bride and groom to be introduced. We do, however, recommend a quick 10-30 min shoot with just the couple between the ceremony and reception.

Schedule For The Best Light

Good light is a photographer’s best friend. To make the most of your bridal photos, schedule the time for couple portraits within the golden hour. This is the hour before sunset and it provides gorgeous, warm, and flattering light. Typically, the best time to schedule this is between the ceremony and your reception entrance.

In contrast, scheduling your portraits around noon is far more difficult for your photographer to create beautiful imagery. Harsh, mid-day sun creates heavy shadows, and since during noon the sun is directly above us, it creates raccoon-eye shadows which are unflattering. If you absolutely must schedule your portraits around noon, ensure that there a fair amount of even shade available for your photographer to work in.

 

Choose A Great Location / Venue

When selecting your ceremony and reception location try to keep an eye out for the photographic potential of the venue. A good photographer will be able to give you amazing images anywhere, but a sexy venue that fits your personality will be icing on the cake. Do a bit of research on venues you’re looking to book. Preview other photographers’ works who’ve shot there and see if the images they created are in line of what you’re looking to receive from your photographer. Additionally, look for variance in your venue. If portions of the venue differ from others, for example, one area of the venue is classy and elegant, where outside on a wall it might be a really great textured brick, that will provide you with a great variety in the images you receive.

Have An Engagement Session

Other than receiving great engagement photos, an engagement session acts as bonding between the photographer and the couple. The photographer gets a chance to see the couple’s personality and how they react in front of the camera. The couple can experience how it is to be photographed together and to become comfortable being photographed. Think of engagement sessions as practice for the wedding day.

If you’re unable to have an engagement session or simply do not wish to have one, I would strongly recommend that the two of you meet up with your photographer in some other way to become familiar – an example could be having dinner together. The more you know your photographer, the more relaxed you’ll be during the wedding.

So You Think You Want To Be An Home Electrical Safety Inspection

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Electrical Safety Inspection for your Home

What Is a Home Electrical Safety Inspection?

An electrical safety inspection examines the electrical system in your home to make sure its various components meet safety standards. These standards are set forth by the National Electrical Code (NEC), and electricians must follow them when inspecting your home. The inspection will also involve checking your system to verify it is installed and operating correctly.

A home electrical safety inspection will:

Ensure your electrical system is working correctly.

Identify any existing problems before they become a hazardous threat, like an electrical fire or power shortage.

Provide recommended solutions to keep your home safe.

Help you meet the requirements for your insurance risk assessment inspection.

Assess the system before you commit to purchasing the home.

Reduce your energy consumption and costs.

What Does a Home Electrical Safety Inspection Involve?

During our home electrical safety inspections, we look for anything that could pose a safety hazard to the home’s residents. It is not uncommon to find open junction boxes or splices that can create both a shock hazard and a fire hazard. We also find loose connections at receptacles, junction boxes and service panels, which can start arcing and create a great amount of heat that can lead to a fire.

We also look for properly sized light bulbs in the light fixtures. People ask, “what could an improperly sized light bulb do?” When a light bulb exceeds the listed limits on the light fixture, it can create enough heat over time to cause the insulation around the wires of the light fixture to crystalize, become brittle and break away from the wire itself. This damage causes the wire to be exposed and be a potential shock and/or fire hazard. There is a reason why light fixtures say “use a maximum __ wattage bulb.”

Safety Checklist

When your electrician from Wiretech Company inspects your home, they will use our safety checklist as a guide to inspect certain areas and identify potential issues. We will:

Check all switches and receptacles for proper operation and secure connections.

Check all light bulbs to make sure they are the proper wattage per the light fixture specifications.

Check all ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) receptacles or circuit breakers for proper operation and secure connections.

Check all arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) circuit breakers for proper operation and secure connections.

Check all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors for proper operation and replace batteries if they are battery operated.

Check all connections and do an inspection of all service equipment, including the service panel, air conditioner disconnects, etc.

Check that proper grounding is in place for the entire house.

 

Electrical Inspection

The electrician will advise you the items that could be a concern, also while doing this electrical test the electrical technician will provide you with FREE adjustments on required fixtures that may need attention.

What we check

Inspection of lights/switches

Inspection of power points / power outlets

Inspection and testing of smoke alarms / smoke detectors

Visual inspection of the switch board / electrical sub board

Visual inspection of the wiring of your home and switch board

Electrical if you have any concerns on your home or office electrical wiring

Conditions apply. This offer for a free safety inspection is in conjunction with service fee which we charge regardless of whether or not our customers take advantage of the safety inspection. The safety inspection will include a full diagnostic of your home or business which includes but is not limited to safety inspection of smoke alarms, hot water systems, switchboard, power connections to home, inspection of powerpoints and lighting around property, and much more.

 

Home Electrical Inspection

Time for a home electrical inspection…Can you be sure your home is safe from an electrical fire? General home inspectors are not equipped with the necessary skills or qualifications to make an informed and rigorous inspection on the condition of your home electrical system. They simply do not understand electrical systems in sufficient depth. Therefore they omit important details that would have been picked up by a qualified electrician.

electrical safety inspection.

home electrical inspections will provide you with peace of mind. When your home electrical system and its components are up to a safe standard. In fact, our home electrical inspection incorporates checks on safety, hazards, and risks that exceed the industry standards. Our priority is your safety, therefore our inspections are thorough and our electricians are highly trained.

Electrical Inspection

A thorough Gordon’s Powers Home Electrical Inspection will include the removal, analysis of a number of devices, such as outlets, switches Electrical installations. In doing this we will check:

Check the condition of the device and the wire feeding the apparatus

Check for open grounds

Check for correct polarity

Check the integrity of the connections

Whether it is correctly wired using appropriate wiring methods

A typical inspection will involve checking a selected number of devices. If any problems are spotted, then we investigate further to see if problems exist in other areas. This involves inspecting:

Inspecting the switchboard for proper earth grounding, bonding, and integrity of connections.

Check for the presence of a driven ground/earth rod and the integrity of the connection.

Check critical areas for potential corrosion problems that may result from improper connections or the use of dissimilar metals.

Test the operation of all Residual Current Devices or any other protection device.

 

Checklist for an Electrical Home Inspection

Electrical Safety Foundation recommends an electrical home inspection on four conditions: upon purchasing a home, when a home is 40 years or older, if an an appliance has been added, and when a home has had a major renovation. In any situation, a licensed electrician must perform the electrical inspection. While an electrician tests several electrical components, in general, a homeowner, renter or homebuyer has several items he can inspect visually

Safety

The National Fire Protection Agency estimates that electrical failure or malfunction caused more than 144,000 house fires between 2007 and 2011. While an electrical inspection may not be required when buying a new home or making major renovations to an existing home, it can reveal electrical deficiencies, and prevent fire hazards.

Electrical Service Panel

Every home has an electrical service panel. It may be located on the exterior of the home, in the garage or basement. The panel contains fuses or circuit breakers. The panel and its components must be reviewed for age, dark or smoky residue, and wear and tear. If the panel contains out-dated round fuses, these should be replaced by a licensed electrician with circuit breakers switches. If the service panel is rusty or worn, it should be replaced as well.

Wiring

In general, a home that contains round fuses at the service panel may give clues to the general age of the home’s wiring. Older homes built before 1950 may contain knob-and-tube wiring. Homes built between 1965 and 1973 may contain aluminum wiring. Both types of wiring have unique safety and performance characteristics and could be more challenging to insure. Homebuyers should be aware of this issue and homeowners should consider replacing the home’s wiring for improved safety and marketability.

Wet Area Outlets

Wet areas, including bathrooms and kitchens, must have ground fault circuit interrupters installed. Additionally, light switches must be several inches away from water. Outside outlets also must GFCIs installed. In general, GFCIs must be installed in any area where water could be present. Homeowners are advised to test GFCIs periodically; homebuyers should check them during the home walk-through before closing.

Interior Outlets and Lighting

Whether a home is up for sale or currently occupied, interior outlets, light switches, appliance cords and GFCIs must be routinely tested and visually inspected. Loose outlets must be tightened or replaced and cords must fit snugly. Outlets should be visually inspected for black smoke and cool to the touch. A licensed electrician must inspect any humming noises or switching sounds around outlets or lighting.

 

Electrical Safety For Your Home

The most frequently asked questions regarding wiring in old houses are:

Q: What are the signs of potential electrical hazards in the home?

A: Room lights dim when the refrigerator or air-conditioner kicks on; the TV screen shrinks; circuit breakers frequently trip or fuses frequently blow; and outlets or dimmer switches are hot to the touch.

Q: Is an old-fashioned fuse box a hazard?

A: No. Fuses offer the same protection against overloaded wiring as circuit breakers. However, when fuse boxes were common, houses had only 30- to 60-amperes service. Today’s homes need at least 150- to 200-amperes service, so if you have a fuse box and you’ve added any large appliances over the years, get a professional electrical inspection.

Q: How can I tell when an outlet isn’t safe?

A: If it no longer holds a plug snugly, if any parts of the outlet are broken, or if the outlet is hot to the touch, replace the outlet.

Q: Can I add more outlets in the kitchen?

A: Probably. Remember to install ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs), and check your homeowner’s insurance policy and local laws to see if a licensed electrician, rather than a handyman, must perform this work.

Q: How long does electrical wiring last?

A: That depends on the type of use and abuse levied against the system over the years. If in doubt, get a complete inspection.

Commercial Electrical Maintenance Services An Electrician Can Provide

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Construction and Maintenance of electrical infrastructure

A now large but family, value-based business, focus is to:

Exceed our customers’ expectations by delivering exceptional electrical projects and maintenance solutions, through superior trade craftsmanship, technical compliance, and timely delivery”

This ethos has been embedded in the employees recruited, training procedures and systems implemented, suppliers we use, and, customers we work with.

Commercial Services

Installing and maintaining your electrical infrastructure requires an electrical contractor that you and your business can rely on.

To keep your business at max power we offer the following services

Electrical Maintenance Services

Log any electrical maintenance request and have it resolved in no time at all! Our maintenance team are dedicated to professionalism, consistency, and communication. No surprises, not even after your electrical maintenance issue is resolved and the paperwork is in your inbox. We also provide a full range of routine maintenance and building compliance services.

Programmed Rollout and Upgrades

We’ll take your vision and turn your programmed rollout, into a reality. In order to maintain consistent standards of appearance and equipment across all sites our customers frequently implement a programmed rollout and upgrades across each of their sites. We have experience in electrical programmed rollouts and upgrades based on changes in: Technology Roll-out (i.e. new POS installs, CBUS lighting) Functional Roll-out (i.e. staff amenities

Fit Outs and Projects

When you need a team of commercial electricians to assist you with a commercial project – such as the construction of shops, warehouses, flats, or any other building, our team will get it done.

team has grown and now includes commercial electricians, apprentices, project managers, account managers and a dedicated service and support team, all with the expertise to get your job done efficiently the first time. Our reactive maintenance division is at your disposal. No electrical job is too small or complex. We are always on-time, if not you save a minimum of $148 – that’s our guarantee.

 

The Essential Guide to Commercial Electrical Maintenance Inspections

Staying up to date with your lighting and electrical service maintenance tasks ensures your systems are operating at peak performance every day. Whether your business requires monthly, quarterly, or annual inspections, it helps to be proactive and schedule maintenance with an electrical contractor into your budget and calendar. Here’s a closer look at the basics of commercial electrical maintenance inspections.

What Does an Electrical Maintenance Inspection Entail?

A comprehensive inspection will assess internal and external electrical assets. These include security features, exterior lights, equipment, and components to ensure a facility and its machinery are all up to code. An electrician will also inspect breaker panels, control panels, individual circuits, ARC fault and GFI breakers, software backups, wires, and fuses.

What Are the Benefits?

A major benefit of an electrical maintenance inspection is extending the life cycle of electrical assets. Poorly maintained assets require more energy to work properly, and excessive duty cycling can accelerate equipment deterioration.

Because they limit disruptions and extra expenses from production shutdowns and equipment replacement, regular maintenance inspections save your business money. Additionally, regular inspections allow business owners to avoid unplanned downtime.

Preventive maintenance conducted by a qualified electrical contractor can delay system failures and reduce the risk of an unscheduled system outage. If you work in a particularly time-sensitive industry, this kind of assurance is key for meeting slim profit margins.

 

Experienced Electrical Contractors

provide the entire package and work along with you from beginning to end to ensure the best results achievable. We are highly skilled at a large range of services; from commercial to industrial, education and special events. Not only that, our team of industry experts are fully trained in PAT testing, energy saving solutions, data and network cabling; there’s no electrical solution we cannot provide to the home or workplace.

COMMERCIAL

No matter whether your requirements are a large retail property, office or maybe a shop fitting assignment, our commercial team provide a no-compromise approach making use of the latest technology to meet all of your commercial requirements. Our approach:

Meet all latest compliance requirements

Have the most effective electrical, security and networking systems to suit your property and budgets

Minimise energy usage

We are fully compliant with Health And Safety Executive being safe contractor approved

These ideas are implemented by a team of time served contractors and a staff of competent technical engineers who are well known in the profession for their extensive technical understanding and huge experience in working with the most complicated and challenging of site conditions.

INDUSTRIAL

CMS electrical should be your first choice for all industrial electrical works. We are able to design, install, maintain and repair jobs of all sizes and issues. We have a long and productive relationship with our industrial customers because of our enthusiastic and flexible method.

RETAIL

Our modern strategy has ensured our large list of retail customers are left with a fantastic electrical installation, accomplished typically within a limited timescale. Our ability to effectively communicate and work well along with other trades is the reason why we a regarded as one of the best retail electrical installers

 

Electricians Assistant Residential/Commercial

Description:

This career major will introduce students to the safety practices, use of hand and power tools/equipment and electrical theory related to the electrical industry.

Required Courses:

OSHA 10 – Construction Industry

OSHA 10 – General Industry

Electrical Safety in Construction

Electrical Theory in Construction

Electrical Schematic and Blueprint Reading in Construction

Electrical Power and Hand Tools and Equipment in Construction – Level I

Direct Current Circuits in Construction

Alternating Current Circuits in Construction

National Electrical Code

Residential Wiring Methods

Commercial Wiring Methods

Motor Theory and Operation in Construction

Motor Control Wiring in Construction

Programmable Logic Controllers in Construction

Workforce Staging

Career Opportunities:

Apprentice Electrician

Controls Technician

Electrical Maintenance Technician

Average Salary:

$16,640-$37,440

 

Maintenance Time: Common Electrical Issues and Violations of Commercial Buildings

It’s hard to imagine what the world will be like without electricity. It is one of the most useful commodities we have today. However, electricity can also be dangerous to us if mishandled.

The significant number of electricity-related deaths and injuries in the workspace is one reason why it is important for businesses to conduct regular maintenance check-ups of their electrical systems. Another reason is to ensure their compliance with national and state regulations. Violating these rules can incur heavy fines or legal action against the company.

Faulty wiring

Dimming or flickering lights and fuses frequently breaking are signs of faulty wiring. A burning smell from turning lights on indicates serious wiring issues that need to be addressed immediately. Installing new light fixtures with old wiring can also be a problem. New lighting operates at hotter temperatures that old wiring might not be able to handle. Experts advise rewiring electrical systems in buildings built before 1987 to prevent fire hazards.

Grounding issues

Ground loops are a common grounding problem in commercial buildings. The interconnection of electrical equipment results in multiple paths to the ground. Professional electricians ensure that there is only one ground used as a grounding system in a building. This grounding helps excess energy escape into the ground and reduce the risk of damaging appliances, fire and electrocution.

Messy electrical panels

An organized electrical panel will help you identify which fuse is which. This is helpful when turning off the power supply in different areas of the building in case there is a fire. Have your electrician organize your electric panel for your convenience and to avoid violations.

Importance Of Water Testing Equipment In A Soil Test Practice

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Standards That Purified Water Users May Need To Think About

There are no agreed definitions of the purity levels of “Purified Water” or “Ultrapure Water” but standards or guidelines which directly specify limits on impurity levels in purified water for specified types of application have been produced for many years. Some are general in nature but others relate to the concerns of particular industries, notably pharmaceutical and electronics. After some general comments, current standards are outlined.

I have been a member of committees that developed two such guidelines and users of these documents should not underestimate the lengthy discussions and debates that are involved. The issues that need to be considered include the implications of any changes to current standards, as these are often specified in analytical or other methodologies, practical application, unambiguity and robustness to remain relevant as laboratory practises evolve, as well as accuracy and acceptability.  The result of such constraints and the time and effort involved is that standards evolve carefully and cautiously! No-one wants to rewrite them more often than needed.

For these reasons, most of the standards have not been revised for a number of years. This does not mean, necessarily, that they are, in any way, out of date. The standards are revisited periodically and, if there are sufficient reasons, they will be updated. However, sometimes inertia sets in and a standard that is clearly behind the times cannot generate enough support to be changed. A clear example is the ISO standard “Water for Laboratory Use”  which was last updated in 1995 and uses analytical parameters from that era.

In addition to specifying purity limits for standards, all these documents contain extensive advice on how to produce, store and use purified water successfully. They also define starting water purity and the combination of treatment processes needed to achieve the required purity. Many indicate the purity of water needed for various types of application. They, therefore, are worth reading. They contain a lot of expertise!

Purified Water Standards For The Pharmaceutical Industry

The pharmacopoeia specify a number of different grades of water for bulk use in various pharmaceutical applications. The same grades are often specified for laboratory testing. The most commonly used are Purified Water (PW) and Water for Injection (WFI). Neither is as pure in terms of resistivity or TOC as CLRW or ASTM type I. WFI includes tighter bacterial and endotoxin specifications.

 

Healthy Beaches Program

follow the CDC guidance by limiting their gathering to no more than 10 persons and distancing themselves from other parties by 6 feet. Local authorities have been given discretion by the Governor to make decisions about whether public beaches should be closed.

This decision is made in an attempt to reduce the spread of the virus into new communities and to slow the spread of infection in communities already affected by the virus. Before you drive there, we suggest you visit the city or county webpage to see if they have closed their marine beach(es) for the next several weeks.

In addition, sampling under the new program include fecal coliform as well as enterococci bacteria. The rationale for selecting these two bacteria for analysis and implications of the sampling results are described below.

Changes to funding levels in 2011 resulted in a return to bi-weekly sampling, the elimination of all fecal coliform sampling, and a reduction of the number of sample locations. Since enterococcus bacteria are indicators of the same types of pollution as fecal coliform bacteria

Health Implications

Enterococci are enteric bacteria that normally inhabit the intestinal tract of humans and animals. The presence of enteric bacteria can be an indication of fecal pollution, which may come from stormwater runoff, pets and wildlife, and human sewage. If they are present in high concentrations in recreational waters and are ingested while swimming or enter the skin through a cut or sore, they may cause human disease, infections or rashes.

 

Three ways to test pH levels in water

Water, being a liquid and a solution (i.e., when it’s not 100% pure H20) has certain chemical properties because of its makeup. All solutions are acidic, basic, or neutral, and this is determined by the pH (power of Hydrogen) scale, with values ranging from 0 to 14. Essentially, this is a measure of how many hydrogen ions are present or hydroxide ions are present.

Acidic solutions are found on the lower end of the spectrum (such as citric acid, at 2.2 pH) and can have millions of times more hydrogen ions than basic solutions. Basic solutions are found on the higher end of the spectrum (such as bleaches and oven cleaners, at 13.5 pH) and can have millions of times more hydrogen ions than acidic solutions.

A pH measurement of 7 is considered neutral. Water, in its purest form, has a PH level of exactly 7, and this provides the foundation for measuring pH levels. It is relatively easy to test the pH level of water and here are three ways to do that.

USING A PH METER

According to thehomedweller, firstly, consult with the manufacturer’s instructions and specifications to calibrate the probe and meter. One way to do this would be to test the probe by dipping it in a substance with a pH level that you are already aware of. It may be an idea to carry out the calibration exercise several hours prior to using it, if you are using the probe in the field rather than a lab. Clean the probe before using it by rinsing it with clean water and wiping the water off with a clean tissue.

USING PH PAPERS

Firstly, fill up a clean container with test water. You will need to make sure that the water level is deep enough to cover the pH testing strip. Secondly, dip one of the test strips into the container of water for a few seconds. The testing strip will change color momentarily. Once the strip has changed color, you will then be able to find out the pH level.

 

Lead & Drinking Water

Water produced at the City’s drinking water treatment plants does not contain lead. Lead can be found in:

water service pipes in homes built before the mid-1950s

solder used to join pipes together before 1990

leaded-brass fixtures, such as faucets and valves

As these items corrode and breakdown, lead can enter drinking water. Apartment and other buildings with more than six units do not have lead pipes, regardless of age. Lead is too soft to handle the pressure needed for these types of buildings. Lead can affect how the brain and nervous system grows

those most at risk include:

pregnant women

infants (in particular those who are fed formula made from tap water)

children under the age of six

Public Health strongly recommends replacing your side of the lead service pipe at the same time that the City is replacing its side. Cutting the pipe to replace just one portion can cause particles of lead to enter drinking water, which can lead to a temporary spike in lead levels.

The water service pipe delivers water into a building. This pipe is divided into two parts.

  1. The part that the City owns runs from the watermain on the street up to the property line.
  2. The part from the property line into the home is private property and the responsibility of the homeowner.

Lead pipes affect residential homes

 

Accredited Standards of Minimum Requirements

The American Water Works Association first published consensus documents in 1908. Today there are more than 180 AWWA Standards. From source to storage, from treatment to distribution, AWWA standards cover all areas of water treatment and supply.

These documents reflect the state of the industry. As new technologies emerge, new Standards develop. These AWWA standards address all facets of water treatment and delivery.

From the initial standards covering pipes, water meters and steel water storage tanks, AWWA volunteers have guided the expansion of the standards program. The Council has grown from five to 24 members, with nearly 1,600 volunteer subject matter experts serving on 72 Committees. There are 189 current AWWA Standards, and Standards Committees have produced 16 of AWWA’s Manuals of Practice.

Emergency Tax Planning Guide Review

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Income Tax Planning: How to plan your taxes early and minimize your tax outgo

There are two types of taxpayers – those who plan their taxes at the very last minute and are at risk of making certain costly mistakes, and others who start their tax-planning early and are better-positioned to minimise their tax outgo and boost their savings. So, if you’re looking to ensure a smooth tax filing process and save money in tax outgo, you’ll be well-advised to plan your taxes early. Read on as we discuss a few tips on how to go about it.

  1. Select the right tax-saving instrument

As you start planning your taxes early, i.e. several months before the current financial year ends, you should try to strike the right balance in terms of choice of tax-saving instruments. You should ideally select tax-saving investments that can help you achieve your financial goals in time. Early planning allows you to carefully evaluate the returns offered by your shortlisted investment products and figure out which ones are aligned with your financial goals and risk appetite and can suffice your liquidity requirements.

For example, if you are close to retirement, you might benefit more by investing in tax-saving debt-oriented investment products that carry minimal risk, like Public Provident Fund (PPF), National Savings Certificate (NSC), among others. On the other hand, if you are young and looking for a high return, you should keep certain equity-oriented tax-saving products like Equity Linked Savings Schemes in your investment portfolio.

It will be pertinent to note here that there are various tax-saving tools that come with a lock-in period of 3 years, 5 years, and even longer, and you can choose as per your financial goals and other considerations.

  1. Invest through instalments

A common misconception is early tax planning is synonymous to investing lump-sums in tax-saving instruments. This is not true. In fact, it’s better to invest through instalments to gain rupee cost averaging benefits while keeping liquidity concerns at bay. As you get closer to the end of the financial year, you can increase or seize the investments depending on whether you have exhausted the tax deduction limit under the prescribed Income Tax Act. For example, under section 80C you can invest in the ELSS, PPF, etc. every month.

You need to keep in mind that you don’t exceed the investment threshold allowed under the applicable act for a tax deduction. For example, the deduction threshold u/s 80 C is Rs 1.5 lakh, and if you invest more than this applicable prescribed limit, you won’t get any additional tax benefit on such excess investment.

  1. Exhaust the allowances received from the employer

There are several allowances that employers provide to their employees – like food coupons, reimbursements on mobile and internet bills, among others – which can lower your tax liability. By planning early in the financial year, you get sufficient time to utilise these allowances efficiently and reduce the tax outgo. Using tax-saving allowances also helps in alleviating the burden on your financial budget as you can focus on using the fund for other expenses.

  1. Estimate your tax obligation and avoid last-minute glitches

Make an estimation of your tax liability for the current financial year and use that estimate to determine your monthly or quarterly tax obligation. It will help you to ascertain how much would be your tax liability at the end of the year, and accordingly, you can fine-tune your tax-saving investment steps every month or quarter. If there is a deviation in income in any month or quarter, you can accordingly increase or decrease your tax-saving investments.

Taking last-minute tax-saving steps can also put you at risk of committing serious and irreversible financial mistakes. So, the better option is to always plan it early and remain stress-free.

 

Important Tax Deadlines

Mark your calendar with these tax filing and retirement account deadlines. Doing so can help simplify your financial life and may help you avoid IRS penalties.

January 31, 2020

  • Is the deadline for employers to mail out W-2 Wage and Tax Statements and generally, for businesses to send various Forms 1099, which report non-employee compensation, bank interest, and distributions from a retirement plan, and help calculate your total taxable income. However, extended timelines may apply, resulting in a later mail date.

Feb. 18, 2020

  • Is the deadline for businesses to send various Forms 1099 for accounts which include securities and report interest, dividends, capital gains and losses, and other income to help you calculate your total taxable income. However, extended timelines may apply, resulting in a later mail date.

July 15, 2020

  • Is the filing and payment date for 2019 federal income tax returns due April 15. You can file electronically or postmark your paper submission by that date.
  • The new due date to file an extension to income tax returns is July 15, 2020 (extended from April 15, 2020). The extension only goes to Oct.15, 2020. Payment is still due July 15.
  • The new deadline to make your IRA contribution for the 2019 tax year is July 15, 2020.

October 15, 2020

  • Individuals who filed for an extension need to file their 2019 federal income tax return by October 15, 2020. Returns filed by mail must be postmarked no later than this date. However, you should estimate and pay any owed taxes by the July 15 deadline to help avoid possible penalties.
  • If you are self-employed and filing for an extension for your personal taxes, you will have until the Oct. 15 deadline to file the paperwork for your individual tax return. However, any taxes you owe are still due on July 15.

December 31, 2020

  • Is normally the deadline to take required minimum distributions (RMDs) for 2020 tax year, but due to the CARES Act no RMD is required to be taken in 2020.
  • December 31 is the last day to convert a Traditional IRA to a Roth IRA for the 2020 tax year.
  • The deadline to sell non-qualified securities to realize a gain or loss for the 2020 tax year is December 31, 2020, if appropriate.
  • December 31 is the last day to make charitable gifts which may qualify for a federal income tax deduction on your 2020 return.

 

Timing is Everything

Timing can make a big difference when it comes to your year-end tax bill. When you sell assets or pay your debts can make a big difference.

If you look at the investments in your non-retirement accounts at the end of the year, and see which investments are winners and losers, you might want to decide whether to sell these winning or losing investments. Selling those investments can affect your tax situation for the year.  You can use up to $3,000 in short-term losses to offset up to $3,000 of regular income each year. However, you can carry forward unused short-term losses for future use. Figure out which of the investments in your portfolio you want to sell now or later, depending on how it will affect your present and future tax plans.

There are other ways to plan ahead for spending that can help you reduce your tax bill. Charitable contributions can affect your tax bill as well. If your charitable giving doesn’t typically push you above the standard deduction amount, you might want to consider bunching deductions. That essentially means you donate several years’ worth of charitable gifts in a single year, which ends up pushing you above the threshold so you benefit from itemizing your deductions. A tax attorney or another financial professional can help you figure out how to time your giving and how to plan for that.

 

What Is Income Tax

Income tax is a direct tax that a government levies on the income of its citizens. The Income Tax Act, 1961, mandates that the central government collect this tax. The government can change the income slabs and tax rates every year in its Union Budget.

Income does not only mean money earned in the form of salary. It also includes income from house property, profits from business, gains from profession (such as bonus), capital gains income, and ‘income from other sources’. The government also often provides certain leeway such that various deductions are made from an individual’s income before the tax to be levied is calculated.

Income Tax Returns

Income Tax Returns (ITR) form are the basis of calculating a person’s income tax. It is a statement showing the status of a person, all their sources of revenue, deductions and, lastly, the tax payable or tax refund, if any.

Income Tax slabs

What income tax rate a person pays depends on the slab they fall in. The government has categorised incomes into slabs like — up to Rs 250,000, Rs 250,000-Rs 5,00,000, Rs 5,00,000-Rs 1 million, and more than Rs 1 million. The rates on different slabs might be different based on age groups.

Standard deduction

Tax on some components of income can be waived by the government. These tax reliefs are known as standard deductions.

 

Tax Preparation VS. Tax Planning

Many people expect to save the most amounts of taxes by hiring a professional to prepare their tax return. However, you may be surprised to learn that you could probably get some additional tax savings after your professional tax preparer’s work.  Recently, a fellow fee-only financial planner shared a story with us. He reviewed five tax returns prepared by an experienced CPA, and he was able to find extra tax saving opportunities from four out of the five tax returns. Other advisors and I also have the same experience. This week, I am going to explain the difference between tax preparation and tax planning, and how to get some real comprehensive tax planning advice.

First of all, you have to understand that tax preparation and tax planning are different. From a professional perspective, they are technically two different services.

Tax preparation is a service that helps you file your tax returns. The main goal is to make sure your tax reporting complies with both federal and state tax laws.

Tax planning is a service that helps you optimize your tax situation before reporting. The purpose is to use legitimate ways to optimize your potential tax consequences based on your goals and plans for future.

Some professional tax preparers may give you general tax guidance and tax savings advice based on your tax returns for recent years. Or they just answer your specific tax-related questions upon your request. However, many of you may not get proactive tax planning advices from them, such as how to use tax loss harvesting to offset your investment gains, how to manage your tax bracket, how to maximize your charitable deduction in a tax-efficient way, when you should do a Roth conversion, what to do with your stock compensations from the tax perspective, what’s the most tax efficient way to take your money out from all your taxable and retirement accounts, how to strategically qualify for a larger mortgage amount or financial aid from the income perspective, and so on. Why? Mainly because tax planning is a separate engagement, requiring additional information, time and various aspects of knowledge other than tax filing

Your House Cleaning Skills With A House Cleaning Job

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Places in your home you should be cleaning, but aren’t

You may think your house is clean, but there are many commonly missed cleaning spots you might not have considered… until now. Grab the antibac – sneaky dirt traps, we’re coming to get you!

Underneath the fridge

A refuge for all those unstoppable rolling peas. GHI cleaning tip: Use a flat mop, (microfibre ones are especially flat) which will go all the way underneath or if it’s on castors pull it out and give the floor and a good wipe down – and don’t forget the wall behind too.

Underneath the sofa

Lifting it up can be such a hassle, it can be easier to just forget about the cleaning situation. But if you knew what was building up underneath you’d soon be reaching for the vacuum, especially if you have pets. GH cleaning tip: Use the nozzle for those hard-to-reach corners.

Down the side of the sofa

Strapped for cash? Just take a peak down the side of your sofa. Here you’re almost guaranteed to find loose change, along with other, less exciting things.This should be hoovered using a nozzle at least once a month.

Gap behind an open door

The triangular space behind your open door is often neglected – go around your home, close the doors and see what lies behind!

 

A Homemaker’s Ultimate Guide to Housekeeping

Housekeeping can be an overwhelming task. Sure, it’s straightforward enough when there are only two of you, but everything changes when that first crying potato bursts into your world.

I remember when I first transitioned into being home full time. I was nearing the end of my pregnancy and my husband took on a full time job in addition to full time school so that I could quit my job.

For the longest time, I just could NOT get it together. While I feel that my struggle is very relatable and all too common, it didn’t have to be that way! Does your home stress you, and leave you feeling like you have little time left for your family, and even less for yourself?

Do you feel overwhelmed with the demands of your role, and find yourself routinely saying, “I’m only ONE person; I just can’t do it ALL!” Or maybe you feel like you could keep up with the housework just fine IF you didn’t have a needy baby or clingy toddler-monkey glued to your body all day long.

Whatever your situation, I’m telling you right now… housekeeping DOESN’T have to be stressful, you CAN get everything done, and you DON’T have to spend hours upon hours in an endless daily loop of chores. And… you can love your job, too.

 

Room By Room Cleaning Guide

All Rooms and Common Areas

Purge, Organize and Dust:

Declutter each room, organize all your items and dust from top to bottom

Rearrange Furniture:

Move furniture to get to those hard-to-reach places that have been collecting dust all winter

Wash Window Treatments:

Steam clean curtains

Use a dryer sheet on mini blinds

Wash shades with warm water and microfiber cloths

Kitchen

Achieve “Like New” Status:

Give your kitchen cabinets and appliances TLC

Clean grimy stovetops, ovens and microwaves with baking soda, warm water and microfiber cloths

Make it “Eat-Off-The-Floor” Clean:

Move everything that touches the floor and vacuum to remove dust and debris

Use baking soda and warm water to make a paste for tough stains, scrubbing with a microfiber cloth

Bedrooms

Give Them a Five-Star Hotel Room Clean:

Use a duster or microfiber cloth for the headboard and bed frame

Vacuum every inch of the mattress

Reassemble a fresh, clean bed

Dust the Décor:

Run a microfiber cloth over and underneath every surface and décor item

Bathrooms

Deep Clean the Ins and Outs:

Clean out and wash vanity drawers or cabinets

Refresh the Light Fixtures:

Bring fixtures back to their “out-of-the-box” condition by removing dust and polish from fixtures with a microfiber cloth

 

The Ultimate Guide to Household Cleaning: What You Should Be Cleaning When

There’s nothing more calm-inducing than stepping into a spotless, tidy home. No matter what happened out in the world or what kind of day you’ve had, . Believe it or not, it’s possible to always have that Zen feeling with a bit of planning and .

secret weapon: the cleaning checklist. By breaking down housework into manageable tasks sorted by day, week, month, season, and year, you can pretty much put cleaning on autopilot. The best part? Just a few minutes here and there can make a huge difference when it comes to how great your home looks and feels—and it keeps messes at bay so that they don’t become bigger headaches down the road

Take those containers of leftovers you vowed to reinvent but never got around to, for example. It’s probably best to do an audit of that back row of  and toss them (and any other expired items) each week to prevent overcrowding and keep your fridge running optimally.

Research shows that the easiest habits to keep are the ones that are automatic, like glancing at these checklists. This way, you’ll never waste time wondering where to even begin or be caught off guard by a seasonal task that crept up on you

They take minimal time and energy but produce maximum results. For example, by making your bed every morning, you ensure that the focal point of your bedroom is tidy, which makes the entire room feel more orderly. (Plus, it puts you in a good mental state to tackle your day.)

 

Spring Cleaning Checklist: The Ultimate Guide

Welcome spring by giving your home a good deep clean. Our handy guide breaks down the must-do chores into a three-step system. First up are the spring cleaning checklist and to-dos, the once-a-year tasks perfectly suited for spring. Next, tackle exterior spring cleaning with tips on fix-ups and repairs for the outside of your home. Finally, room-by-room cleaning tips will help you declutter and tidy up specific must-hit areas.

Spring is the perfect time to  or embark on an apartment-cleaning marathon. Work these chores into your cleaning schedule this spring and get ready to face warmer days with a space that sparkles. Before you tackle your deep cleaning, make a cleaning checklist tailored to your home and needs.

Be sure to pick a cloudy day to . “If it’s too sunny, the cleaning solution will dry too fast and you’ll have streaks,” says . Water and a microfiber cloth will typically clean windows more effectively than chemicals. Otherwise, make your own glass cleaner solution with 1/4 cup rubbing alcohol, 1/3 cup vinegar, and distilled water.

Sliding glass door tracks probably aren’t the first spots you’d think to clean, but you’ll appreciate having done it before the outdoor entertaining season gets into full swing. Smallin suggests scrubbing the tracks with an old, dry toothbrush to loosen debris, then using your vacuum hose to remove it. Finish with a wet sponge.

Spring cleaning is an opportunity to address those surfaces you overlook on a daily basis. Once a year, give your baseboards, door frames, and . Wash them with a sponge and a squirt of dishwashing liquid mixed in a bucket of warm water.

Steps To Finding A Reputable Dentist In Your Local Area

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How do i find a new dentist?

Why You May Need a New Dentist

Poor oral health can impact the rest of your body, so it’s important to find a dentist that is concerned about more than just your teeth. Therefore, one reason individuals search for new dentists is to receive improved overall care.

Superior customer service is also a contributing factor. Many people are afraid of dentists, but finding a clinic that offers an exceptional experience from the minute you arrive to the minute you leave helps you feel more comfortable and confident. Customer-centered clinics are highly sought after by new patients.

Perhaps you’re happy with your current dentist’s abilities and patient-focused mindset, but have another reason for leaving the clinic. You may require specialized treatments or are moving to a new location. In that case, it’s more practical to search for a new dentist.

Nobody necessarily wants to embark on the journey of finding a new dentist. But occasionally, it’s just what we have to do. Longtime dentists retire, jobs require us to move, and a variety of life’s situations sometimes make it necessary to seek out a new dentist. However, finding the right new dentist can be a difficult process. With so many practices in your neighborhood all offering similar services, how do you know which dentist to choose? Follow this handy guide below to help find the best dentist

 

Tips for Finding a Great Dentist

The simplest place to start in today’s digital age is our trusty friend, Google. Take advantage of Google so you can collect a list of prospective dentists in Edmonton or your local area. Search “dentist near me” to acquire instant results.

While Google may help you find dentists, it may not be able to confirm whether they’re great dentists. Ask your current clinic for a referral, or contact your local doctor or pharmacist to see if they can assist. You can also ask family, friends and colleagues for recommendations. We all have to visit a dentist at some point in our lives and receiving first-hand information from people you trust can benefit your search.

One of the most effective methods to finding a great dentist is to schedule meet-and-greets. Visiting prospective clinics will allow you to gauge whether the dental teams appear welcoming, professional and genuine. It takes a bit of effort, but the impressions you obtain are key to finding a new dentist.

Ask for Recommendations

When starting your search for the right dentist, begin by asking friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers. Compile a list of options and hit the internet to do some research on your own. Look at each office’s website, see what services are offered, read up on the doctor and team, and don’t forget to check out their reviews either on their website or on online review platforms like Google. This will help you narrow your list to a few options.

Make Some Calls

Once you have your list of prospective dentists, pick up the phone and start calling them. During these conversations, be open to asking questions that will provide you some insight into the practice philosophy, treatments offered, and overall personality of the office. Some of the basic questions you can ask include:

“What is the dentist’s level of training?”

“What type of amenities does the practice offer to make treatment more comfortable?”

“What should I expect during my first visit?”

“How do you handle insurance and financials?”

Schedule an Appointment

After your initial call with each office, you should have a pretty good idea of which practice stands out to you the most and which may be a good fit. The next thing you should do is schedule a consultation or new patient appointment. There’s no better way to ensure you’ve found your new dental home than to get into the office and check it out. During your visit, note things like cleanliness, friendliness, time-sensitivity, and thoroughness. After this first visit, you should know whether that dentist and office is best for your needs, or that you need to keep looking.

 

Consider office location and hours

Most people looking for a dentist want one 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.

Review cleaning and safety precautions

During the COVID-19 pandemic, dental offices are following guidelines to safely care for patients. Before scheduling a dental appointment, confirm the office’s cleaning procedures and safety protocols. Here are a few questions to ask when looking for a dentist:

  • How often do they disinfect the waiting rooms, treatment areas and equipment?
  • What type of protective gear do they wear? These items may include gloves, facial masks and shields, gowns, hair nets and shoe covers.
  • Are patients screened before treatment? How about the staff?

Check patient feedback

As you’re looking for a dentist, 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. Find out who they prefer.

 

Check the Insurance

One of the first things you should do when you’re considering a dentist is to ask which insurance plans they accept. Dental care can be expensive, especially if you’re having procedures like root canals or fillings done. You want to make sure your dentist accepts your family’s insurance before you schedule an appointment.

You can also go about this the other way around and call your insurance company. Ask them which dentists in your area are covered on their network and work off that list. While you have them on the phone, check on any copays you may be required to make for your care.

Look for Short Wait Times

No one likes sitting around in a waiting room for a long time before your dental appointment. You have things you need to be doing, and if going to the dentist takes four hours every six months, you’re less likely to go as often as you need to. If you have anxiety about the dentist, this waiting time can also make that worse.

Ask the dentist’s office what typical wait times are. You may also want to check reviews online to see if current patients say anything about the wait times. If you discover wait times are an hour or more, it’s a good idea to find another dentist.

Ask About the Service Options

Depending on your oral health, you may have to have a wide variety of procedures performed. You or your family members may need to have wisdom teeth removed, get crowns or implants put in, or get orthodontic work done. You don’t want to have to juggle a million different dentist’s offices and bills.

Instead, look for a dentist who offers a variety of services. Dentists may offer cosmetic services, family services, restorative services, and emergency dental care. If a dentist offers all of these options, they’re a good choice.

 

Most common mistakes that patients make when choosing a dentist in their local area.

PICKING A DENTIST WITHIN THEIR NETWORK

Picking a dentist within the patient’s network is the most sensible thing to do when choosing a dental professional, right? Wrong. Choosing a dentist that is outside of a patient’s networkis actually the best way to go.

Patients who choose out-of-network dentists often enjoy the full benefits of their dental insurance. It also helps to offset dental costs and lessen the amount being paid by the client directly to the dentist.

PUTTING TOO MUCH VALUE IN REVIEWS

Putting too much value in reviews is another important mistake that you should avoid because online reviews can be manipulated. However, you should not disregard reviews completely. It can be a helpful tool that will help you make the right decision in choosing the best dentist.

SO, WHAT SHOULD LOOK FOR IN ONLINE REVIEWS?

Try to find information about the billing,financing options and the quality of work of the dentist. Through reviews, you can find out if the dental care provider stands by their work. You would want a dentist who will stay with you until you reach optimum oral health.

If the dental practice is responding to the majority of their online reviews in a positive manner, regardless if the review is good or bad, that is a good sign that they care about their patients.

CHOOSING DENTAL PRACTICES WITH LIMITED SPECIALIZATION

Avoid choosing a dentist who does not do everything under one roof. You will want to have one dentist who will provide you complete dental care so that the quality of services will be consistent throughout all of your dental treatments.

LATEST DENTAL TECHNOLOGY

As with other medical fields, dental technology is constantly evolving and developing. Always opt for the best dental materials and the latest dental equipment.

Dentists who have state-of-the-art technology when it comes to dental services will always provide a superior quality of work compared to those who have outdated equipment.

Move Out Cleaning Practical Tips

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Move Out Cleaning Services

Schedule your move out cleaning together with a removals service or separately if you wish. We will provide you with a free no-obligation quote, which will include a breakdown of all the costs, based on your moving needs and assistance requests. On that note, the professional move out cleaning is charged per job, which means that the service is not limited by time. You can book your cleaning session for any day of the week, including public holidays.

Save time and money

We have designed a complete relocation package that can take care of every facet of your move. Depending on your individual circumstances, we can send packers and movers to wrap your possessions with quality materials, load, transport and deliver them to your new address

Getting your bond back

The professional cleaners who will handle your end of tenancy cleaning are familiar with the checklists used by letting agencies and landlords. In other words, they will make sure the priority areas are properly cleaned so the property can easily pass the check.

Complete solution

We will personalise your service to meet all your relocation needs. Whether you need furniture removals and storage or there is a load of old furniture or any other waste disposed of, or you require special packing and handling of antique items

There is nothing more stressful than losing your security deposit on top of packing, moving out and looking for a new place to rent. With our reliable, 72-hour guaranteed end of tenancy cleaning assistance, you can rest assured that the funds you’ve paid upfront will be returned in full so that you can secure more easily the rent for your next accommodation

 

Moving out of a Furnished Flat: Checklist – what you have to do

Your stay in your furnished flat is coming to an end? This is what you should arrange and plan in advance in order to make moving out as easy as possible.

Get in touch with the Landlord

Please arrange a day and time for the final inspection and, or the handover of the keys. If you should leave very early in the moring, please ask the owner if he or she would like to check the apartment before or after you have left.

You need to know:

where you should leave the keys

how you should leave the apartment (basically clean, will a professional cleaner come, can you do the final cleaning yourself, should you wash the bedlinen or towels… ?

discuss cleaning instructions with the landlord, if you are not sure how to get rid of a stain on a sofa, how to clean sensitive surfaces etc.

With some apartments, a professional final cleaning is obligatory. But in our opinion, you can never leave the apartment too clean. 😉 We have also had cases, when the tenants did a better final cleaning job than the professional cleaners, but with most cases, a professional cleaning IS necessary. But you can always save many, if you do as much as possible yourself. Therefore you should concentrate on the details!

Check the Apartment

You should, of course, always report if something is not working, if here are any damages etc. Even if you have not caused the problem. It is much easier fort he landlord to plan and conduct the mending if he or she knows in advance. If you are still in the apartment, you can explain the problem in detail, you can also explain that you did not use anything incorrectly.

 

The Insured and Guaranteed Move-out cleaning solution

SAVES YOU TIME

you will finally have time to take care of what’s most important for you

200% SATISFACTION GUARANTEED

We guarantee you a clean home. If you are not happy with the cleaning, we’ll come again for free. If still you are not happy, we will refound your money.

SAFETY FIRST

We rigorously vet all of our Cleaners, and in case of damage we are covered by a 10 millions CHF insurance

CLEANING PRODUCTS INCLUDED

All our services include eco-friendly cleaning products, safe for the environment and the health of your beloved ones.

A SERVICE TAILORED FOR MOVE OUT CLEANINGS

Companies offering move out cleaning solution usually take care of “after renovation” cleanings, that require expensive and heavy machines. Why hire such a company when a cleaning lady trained

 

Tenant guide to moving out

Moving out of your rental property? Our advice: leave it as you found it! Essentially, you are responsible for leaving the property in the same condition as when you moved in, save for fair wear and tear. If you were given an inventory check-in document at the start of your tenancy, please re-read as this will help you to understand the original condition of the property and the standard of cleaning required.

Landlords accept that there will be an element of fair wear and tear during any normal residential tenancy. However, if it’s anything more than a reasonable amount, you could see deductions from your deposit. It is worth you spending the time bringing the property back to the same standard as specified in the inventory check-in. Please follow these guidelines to make moving out as simple as possible!

Refresh your memory

Have a read through your inventory check-in report and refresh your memory about the condition of the property when you first moved in

Rearrange

Be sure to return all items of furniture to the original room if they have been moved around – the inventory check-in report will also help with this if you can’t remember. This helps to avoid claims for missing items that are simply in a different room.

Clean up

All areas of the property need to be cleaned to the same standard they were in when you first moved in. Don’t forget the oven, fridge freezer (get defrosting) and windows – these are the areas most likely to be forgotten! Moving house is stressful enough, so consider calling in the professionals for an end of tenancy cleaning service. Ideally, arrange an overlap between your new and old tenancy of a day or two. That way you can get your possessions moved out, the cleaners called in, and minimise your stress.

 

Follow This Moving Out Checklist Before Tenants Leave

If you’ve ever been a renter, you’ve likely paid a security deposit. Deposits can be steep! You probably really wanted the entire amount returned. Now that you’re a landlord, you know you’re more than happy to give renters their security deposit back—so long as they left your property tidy and free of damage. A moving-out checklist ensures keeps both renters and landlords happy. (We’ve even got a moving-in checklist, so you can start on the right foot.

Procedures and checklists streamline everything. They make the process faster and more efficient. They prevent you from smacking your forehead and saying, “Darn it, I forgot to do a walk-thru inspection!” Here’s our recommended process for renter move-out and move-in.

What Landlords Must Do for Move-Out

Moving out doesn’t happen in a day. It can be a long process—so make sure you’re dotting your is and crossing your ts from the moment your tenant turns in notice.

One to two weeks before move-out

Schedule a preliminary walk-through. Afterwards, alert the tenant—in writing—to the issues that need to be resolved in order for the tenant to receive their deposit back in full. For example: Tenant must repaint walls back to their original color.

Send tenant a “cleaning checklist” that outlines the expectations of how clean the unit must be. (See below.)

Remind tenant that all their possessions must be removed by 12 p.m. on move-out day, or whatever time is specified on the lease. Schedule a time for the final walk-through of the unit, preferably at 12:00 noon or 1 p.m. on move-out day.

Arrange for a cleaning crew and a handyman to come to the unit on the afternoon of move-out day.

On moving day

Come to the walkthrough with two copies (to be signed in duplicate) of three forms:

The move-out inspection checklist

The final move-out form, which states that the tenant’s lease is over, all obligations are finished, and they will not be staying

A form for a forwarding address and phone number.

Bring a camera. Any issues with the unit must be documented.

Walkthrough the unit with your tenant, photographing any and all damage or uncleanliness.

Have tenant sign all three forms.

Email tenant any photos of damage.

After tenant leaves, instruct cleaning crew and handyman as necessary.

Stop Mosquitoes From Infesting Your Home

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How To Get Rid Of Mosquitoes

Summer’s in full swing, bringing its usual bounty of barbecues, pool parties, and other (slightly sweaty) festivities. But along with the popsicles and sandals come those universally hated pests: mosquitoes. From mosquito breeding habits, to effective ways to keep mosquitoes out of your yard, to a comprehensive guide for mosquito repellents, to recommendations for outdoor and indoor do-it-yourself remedies, our guide to getting rid of mosquitoes covers it all.

Mosquito Breeding: “Know Your Enemy”

Before getting into the various home remedies to help deter mosquitoes, it’s important to understand what often leads to the problem in the first place. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in water, or any space that’s sufficiently moist. Where they specifically lay their eggs varies between species, but the common factor between all of them is that they’re seeking stagnant water

Here’s a list of common locations for stagnant water buildup:

Gutters

Downspouts

Tires

Toys

Watering cans

Puddles

Bird baths

Tarps

Pots and planters

All this just means you can win most of the battle against mosquitoes means disrupting pools of stagnant water. While mosquitoes will still be able to wander in from elsewhere, eliminating the areas where mosquitoes can lay their eggs will greatly reduce the amount of mosquitoes in your yard

You can do this by:

Tipping over buckets, kiddie pools, etc.

Throwing out or moving random objects in your yard that can hold water, like old tires and planters

Drilling holes in the bottom of swings

Cleaning your gutters to allow proper drainage

Grooming plants that provide shade and various biological resources

Tightening tarps covering grills, firewood, etc, instead of letting them sag and store water

 

Effective Remedies to Get Rid of Mosquitoes at Home

It is impossible to enjoy an evening out on the patio or open the windows to let in some cool evening breeze if your house is invaded by mosquitoes every day. Mosquitoes can be quite annoying to deal with, especially due to their constant buzzing, biting, and the range of diseases they carry. Dengue, malaria, and yellow fever are few of the many illnesses that they are known to spread

Garlic

The strong smell of garlic helps keep mosquitoes away. All you need to do is crush some cloves of garlic, boil them in water and spread the smell all over the house. You can fill this solution in a bottle and spray your house with it to keep mosquitoes away.

Tulsi

The natural fragrance of Basil or Tulsi acts as a repellent for mosquitoes. Surround your house with Tulsi plants or keep a shrub next to each window. This herb helps keep mosquitoes away and works wonders in treating mosquito bites as well.

Cloves and Lemon

This remedy is one of the best ways to keep mosquitoes away; it is quite simple too. Slice a few lemons into halves and stick some cloves into each half. Place these around the house to get rid of mosquitoes.

Neem and Lavender oil

Mix some neem and lavender oil in the ratio 1:1 and apply it on your skin. Neem oil can keep mosquitoes away better than commercial coils. It also has antibacterial, antiviral and anti-fungal properties, which keep your skin safe and protected.

 

BACKYARD MOSQUITO CONTROL GUIDE

The sound of mosquitoes buzzing around your ears is annoying, but their bite is potentially dangerous to your health. Large populations of mosquitoes make it almost impossible to enjoy your outdoor space and activities.

Mosquitoes are a major problem in warm weather when you and your family want to spend time outdoors entertaining, playing games, or enjoying your deck or patio. If you don’t want to be restricted when you’re sitting outside, or have to spray on smelly repellents each time you go out, you need to find other mosquito control alternatives.

There are solutions that give you and your family the freedom to go outdoors when you choose without fighting off swarms of hungry mosquitoes. While there are many options when it comes to outdoor mosquito control, not every solution is effective. It may only offer a short-term solution.

If you want the best mosquito control for your yard, prepare for battle early and choose a product that offers long-term control. We have compiled a list of mosquito solutions designed to help you take back your yard.

Mosquito Traps

Mosquito Larval Control

Air Curtains

Mosquito Misting Systems

Mosquito Nets

Integrated Pest Management

 

How to Get Rid of Mosquitoes: Complete Mosquito Control & Prevention Guide

These insects can cause numerous problems once they decide to settle down in your house. If you are here to learn how to get rid of mosquitoes, it means that they are already bothering you. Mosquitoes are small, but bring multiple dangers with them, including diseases that some species carry, like yellow fever, dengue, and malaria.

Even if they are not contagious, their bites are still painful and itchy. Apart from physical discomfort, the threat of these insects may cause anxiety and even insomnia. This is why I am going to talk about the mosquito problem here, discussing the best ways to end it.

If you are looking for the best ways to make mosquitoes go away, you must be already bothered by them. Clamping your hands each time you hear whining right near your ear is not a solution.

They can easily feed on your blood completely unnoticed until you receive itching skin irritation. This is why a detailed guide on the best way to get rid of mosquitoes in yard and houses is crucial.

Quick mosquito identification

Mosquito belongs to a flies family, called Diptera. However, inside this huge family, they are representatives of Culicidae, which is the Latin word for a gnat. Despite flies’ group affiliation, the mosquito is still a bloodsucker that carries multiple diseases that can be deadly for people. You will easily recognize its high-pitched whine, long legs, narrow and long wings, the sharp mouth, and the tube to suck the blood.

 

How to get rid of mosquitoes: clever tricks and natural mosquito repellents to avoid a nasty bite

Mosquitoes are unfortunately one of the downsides of weather you might otherwise be delighted by. And, hearing the whine of a mosquito flying past your ear as you nod off to sleep is not a welcome experience

Some home pests can be merely annoying, while others can be destructive or a health hazard, and our guide to how to get rid of pests has all information you need on evicting the invaders of our homes and gardens.

Mosquitoes are definitely on the list of house-sharers you don’t want, and if you’re prone to getting bitten, you’ll know why. Mosquito bites can be really itchy, and may even bring you up in blisters.

Fortunately, there are natural repellents, clever buys and smart tactics you might not have thought of to put off these nasties. Can’t wait to rid yourself of these troublesome pests? Read on and head to our cleaning hub for more knowledge on keep your space spick and span.

STOP THEM COMING IN THE WINDOWS

Obvious, right? But the fact is that if it’s hot overnight you won’t want to prevent the intrusion of mosquitoes by keeping the windows shut. The solution is to fit insect screens to your windows that still allow you to open them.