It’s a tough subject to tackle. After all,
veterinarians do plenty of annoying things, too. But this particular post is
all about you—well, not you, but the annoying yous among you. Not that most of
you deserve this, but some of you just might! So without any further hedging,
let me launch into the most annoying things pet owners do.
Answer Their Cells
Need I say more? Is there anything more
annoying and disrespectful than answering a phone call while your vet is
delivering her state-of-your-pet’s-health address? OK, it might be worse if you
dug out your phone to initiate a call midexam, but only by a smidge. They’re
both just plain rude.
Bring Their Kids
I dearly love children (mine mostly, but
yours can also be cool), but very young or badly behaved children are an
unnecessary liability in a veterinary environment. It’s hard enough to keep
pets safe — much less kids. So unless your children are old enough and/or chill
enough to hang out in a vet setting, they should probably stay home. One
exception: If your pet has an emergency and you have no one to care for your
kids, you are most definitely excused. We’ll understand. Call ahead and we may
even assign an employee to keep tabs on them so you can concentrate on what’s
wrong with your pet.
Let Their Dogs Run Amok
This is not the dog park. And, for the
record, retractable leads should remain in the shortest, locked position for
the duration of your visit. After watching an innocent human get taken down in
the lobby by an overlong retractable line, I decided there should be a law
against these in vet hospitals.
Holistic Care is never all bad.
Many veterinarians have a victorious
aversion to ‘herbal’ veterinary care, they believe that it in actuality does no
longer paintings and let their prospects know. Pet proprietors need their pets
healed, devoid of edge effects, and herbal remedies can continually do that.
Pet proprietors are increasingly through herbal remedies, with over 50% have
used an notable deal of form of complementary remedy. Of confidential note,
holistic veterinary remedy has a very important sort of credible scientific
analyze that reduce back its effectiveness. Take for example the herb turmeric,
which has been shown to be increasingly victorious for hypersensitive
reactions, arthritis and now even cancer; prospects detect that it works, and
now science is backing this up. Clients are actively getting to know the
know-how superhighway for any accessible choice to regard it doesn’t matter
what disease their pets have, and being
exposed to method greater likelihood ideas. Ultimately as veterinarians it can
be much larger to fortify into your prospects trusted advisors on all facets in
their pets care, holistic and favorite.
Crappy of us skills.
This is greater about what vets don’t say-
as in nothing. How in regards to the veterinarian and their laborers making
respectable eye contact while any client contains the workplace and making pet
proprietors experience welcome. I have had many prospects say they’ve felt
un-very important and no longer identified at a veterinary medical association.
Imagine the veterinarian introducing him or herself, affirming your name, and
your pet’s name. Unfortunately of us skills are no longer a fashion of trends
determined on for at veterinary tuition- sure as a veterinarian you’ll be able
to be superb with animals, have simplest medical or surgical skills, then again
you continue to must be capable to go looking the recommendation of pet
proprietors.
Too many tips.
So what does your pet in actuality need? 13
amazing blood assessments, heartworm screen, fecal flotation, urinalysis,
X-rays, EKG, all justified as ‘wellness’ screening. If a pet is sick, most
prospects need vets to do the key very important assessments first with a view
to paintings out the cause. Clients need veterinarians firstly an notable deal of
typical sense and present a list of the key likely diagnoses. Ask your
veterinarian exactly what they do for that is why referred to as ‘wellness
screening’ for their personal pets. In my celebration most veterinarians only
do diagnostic assessments on their personal animals while they’re sick. Should
this in actuality be amazing with their prospects?
Just present me the Truth.
As in what vaccines does my dog or cat in
actuality need? What do you in actuality consider is incorrect with pet? Pet
proprietors need the ‘actual’ answers, if it is bad news a couple of diagnosis,
or what vaccines you believe about are wished. As an example, many
veterinarians are giving their personal pets some distance fewer vaccines than
they advise giving to their client’s animals. Or agree with after an exam of
your dog, your veterinarian unearths multiple enlarged lymph nodes. For worry
of ‘scaring’ you, your veterinarian
inform you that ‘it’s simply a lump we must scan’. This confuses
prospects, and breeds mistrust, the distinctive reverse that I consider
veterinarians need to speak. Key to any classification of long time fulfillment
in veterinary apply is hanging up a mutual courting together with your
prospects founded on have confidence. If prospects have confidence then you
devoid of difficulty they’re method greater likely to acquire your tips, refer
greater prospects to you, and feature your apply thrive. Win-Win.
Waiting too long to seek help
It’s so frustrating when a pet owner
finally arrives at the ER with a dog that is nearly dead, then goes on to tell
vet staff how they stayed up all night watching the dog vomit and have
diarrhea. In the past I’ve heard, “He only vomits two or three times a day.”
How many times a day do you vomit? Please go to the veterinarian sooner rather
than later!
Having to handle the owner to handle the
dog
When small dog owners hold their dog very,
very, very close to their bosom and, when the vet asks to examine the dog, they
literally have to pry the dog away from that bosom. There is no way to avoid
being inappropriate!
professional ceiling fan installation
across Brisbane and surrounding suburbs. If you’re looking for an easy,
environmentally friendly and cost-effective way to cool down then speak to us
today about installing ceiling fans in your home. Not only can ceiling fans
help reduce the temperature in a room by up to 4 degrees but they can increase
the efficiency of your air conditioning saving you money. Ceiling fans can also
double as great feature pieces in a room and can increase the value of your
home.
How does a ceiling fan cool the room?
We’re all guilty of running the ceiling fan
on a hot day to try and reduce the temperature of the room however your ceiling
fan doesn’t directly cool the air all by itself.
Ceiling Fan Safety Tips
Be sure that they are turned off if you
aren’t home
Be mindful of the fan while it is turned on
(never throw things in the air or jump on the bed while it is spinning)
Never hang things from a ceiling fan (They
aren’t designed to be load bearing)
You can install a safety guard on your
ceiling fans for an extra precaution
Keeping your ceiling fan clean will ensure
maximum performance and lifespan. Here are some easy steps you can follow at
home to make sure your fan is in good working order:
Make sure to clean any dust or dirt that is
gathered on the ceiling fan blades (while it is turned off) this can be done
with a brush or a rag
Ensure you tighten any loose screws which
can be found on the fan itself, on the plate that attaches the fan to the
ceiling or any screws on the light fixtures on your fan
Check to see if your fan needs oil if it is
not self maintaining. This can be done by adding oil to the oil hole near the
motor however most fans are self lubricating.
Make sure your fan is not wobbling or
shaking, as this means it may need to be balanced or one of the blades may be
damaged or warped
The difference between the settings are:
Summer: The fan blades spin in a
counterclockwise direction which circulates the air and disperses the breeze to
the edges of the room. This makes you feel cooler quicker and it feels like the
room temperature lowers.
Winter: In this setting, the fan blades
spin clockwise which forces all the warm air that is trapped above the fan and
along the ceiling down into the room to mix with the cooler air. To achieve the
best results you should keep your fan on low speed in this setting during
winter.
Best ceiling fans: We can help you find the
perfect fan to meet your needs
The cost of a ceiling fan can range from
$70 to $2,000 or more. When choosing a ceiling fan, you need to know the size
of your room and the height of the ceiling. Then you can consider how many
blades you want, what material you prefer, how many speeds you need and other
important features.
We’ve narrowed down the seven best choices
for budget buyers, high-end fanatics, outdoor spaces, bedrooms, low ceilings
and those interested in environmental sustainability. If you’re not sure
exactly what you’re looking for, we’ll walk you through the steps to make the
right choice to meet your needs.
Our budget pick is the Arlec 120cm White 4
Blade Ceiling Fan with Oyster Light. The Arlec Classic 4 Blade fan retails from
Bunnings for only $70
This basic model offers reversible airflow
so you can use it to circulate air in any season. The Arlec Classic 4 Blade
also includes an in-built oyster light. Keep in mind, the light is not dimmable
and bulbs are not included with the fan. While the fan doesn’t come with a
remote control, you can add one later if you decide it’s worth the additional
cost or if your budget increases. You can also book your ceiling fan
installation at Bunnings. The store offers regular deals on installation for
Arlec-brand fans, so make sure you check if there are any upcoming specials
before you buy.
Our pick for the best high-end fan is the
Big Ass Fans Haiku Series 52. Haiku Series 52 fans come with SenseME
technology, which uses sensors to automatically adjust to one of seven
different speeds based on environmental conditions.
How to Install a Ceiling Fan Where No
Fixture Exists
Installing a ceiling fan is actually not as
challenging of a project as it may seem, however, if no fixture already exists
in the spot where you’d like your new fan to live, the task can be a bit more
challenging
Determining Where to Install Your Ceiling
Fan
Let’s start by deciding where your new
ceiling fan will reside. The answer
might seem obvious—the center of the ceiling right? Not so fast.
Most ceiling fans weigh at least 20 lbs so your new fan will need to be
located in between two joists for support.
Keep in mind, what makes a ceiling fan
electrical box different from a traditional light fixture box is the
bracing. Ceiling fan boxes must include
bracing that attaches to the ceiling joists to support the greater weight and
vibration that comes with a ceiling fan installation.
Installing Your Ceiling Fan Electrical Box
The process of installing a ceiling fan box
involves pushing the bracing and box through the hole you’ve made in the ceiling
and attaching them to the ceiling joists as per the manufacturer’s instructions
(although very similar not all ceiling boxes are exactly the same).
Running Electrical Wiring to Your New Fan
Before going any further it’s very
important that we take a moment to address the inherent danger that exists when
working with your home’s electrical wiring.
If at any time you feel unsure of what you are doing it’s important to
stop and call a certified electrician.
HERE’S HOW: Install a ceiling fan yourself
Before attempting to install it, make sure
your husband purchased the correct size for your room. If he bought it at a
reputable home center store, they will probably let you exchange it for another
if the size is incorrect
As a rule of thumb, use a 36-inch-diameter
fan if the largest room dimension is under 12 feet. From 12 to 15 feet, a
42-inch size is best and from 15 to 18 feet, select a 52-inch size. For very
large or long narrow rooms, use two smaller ceiling fans.
For a standard ceiling height, the fan kit
should come with the proper downrod length to provide at least seven feet of
clearance above the floor. Unless your ceilings are unusually low, avoid a
ceiling hugger design. The proximity of the blades to the ceiling impede proper
airflow.
Putting up a ceiling fan is not a difficult
job. Many of the new ceiling fans have an installation hanging hook built into
the ceiling mounting. This makes it a one-person job, assuming that you are
strong enough to get it up on the hook first.
Do a little stretching first and, even if
you are in good shape, plan on having some sore muscles the next day. It is not
so much the weight of the unit, but all the twisting and reaching around the
motor and blades that is straining.
HOW TO INSTALL A CEILING FAN EQUIPPED
Installing any ceiling fan is usually a
very simple process, and it is just as simple when installing a ceiling fan
that comes equipped with the more energy efficient DC motor. However, there are
some warnings one should know before proceeding and attempting to connect a DC
fan to their power source.
CONNECTING A STANDARD AC FAN IS A LITTLE
DIFFERENT
In the past, when fans all came equipped
with a standard AC motor, many electricians would wire up a ceiling fan without
feeling the need to turn off a circuit breaker, or even a wall switch that
sends power to the fan.
Although, it is always a good idea to do
so, a seasoned electrician understands that as long was they only work with one
wire at a time, and the other wires are capped, they aren’t really going to
have to worry about any sort of electrical shock. They know for a shock to
happen they’d have to be touching the metal part of the wire they are working
with, while at the same time grounding themselves on something else metal to
complete the circuit. Therefore, many times electricians may simply hold the
wire by the insulated part (colored coating) and connect one wire at a time.
After all, for standard fans we are only talking about one hot wire, one
neutral wire, and one ground wire.
Even remote controlled traditional ceiling
fans with an AC motor is not much different. The only difference is there is
usually a remote receiver that separates the three fan wires from the power
wires at the ceiling. On one side of a remote receiver there is usually a blue,
a black, and a white wire. Coming from the top of the fan is the same three
color wires. One only needs to simply connect those wires together by their
color. Then, on the other side of the remote receiver there is always a black
wire and a white wire (separate from the side that three black, white, and blue
wires are found) and these two wires simply connect to the black wire and the
white wire coming out from the ceiling.
NEVER TRY TO WIRE A DC FAN WITH THE CIRCUIT
BREAKER ON
A DC ceiling fan is more sensitive when
connecting wires, making it a must to have the power turned off before
beginning any of the wiring process. It does not matter how comfortable an
electrician feels around power, a DC fan is very, very sensitive, and the power
must be turned off while making wiring connections. Any slight arc of power or
surge during the process can, and probably will, damage the DC ceiling fan’s
remote receiver. Therefore, power being off before starting the installation is
crucial. The reason is that the receiver also contains the converter that will
change the home’s AC power over to a DC current before that current gets to the
fan motor. Due to the complexity of the task the receiver is required to do,
the circuitry is more sensitive and care should be taken when wiring.
Some roofing companies in Superior hurry
through the consultation phase, but we know that quality roofing work starts
with a detailed roof inspection. How can a roofing contractor repair or replace
roofing without knowing what is going on up there? It’s vital that you pick a
roofing company that offers roof inspections services with thorough procedures,
because contractors can’t repair the problem if they don’t grasp it
Superior roofing contractors obtain
cross-training so that they are able to perform any roofing service on all
sorts of commercial buildings with all kinds of roofs, but an essential
thing for every job is a roof
inspection. We think that the roof inspection services we begin every Superior
commercial roofing project with are the basis for quality work throughout
because inspecting the roof tells us everything that’s wrong, so we are able to
formulate services
Commercial Roof Inspection and Insurance
Coverage
Another helpful roofing inspection service
you can expect is how Superior homeowners are advised about the insurance
process. We ensure the adjuster performs an adequate roof inspection of their
very own. We are on-site to ensure they examine every area for damage, do not
miss any line products, and that lots of photographs are used. Every ding,
dent, and crack should be noted during the adjuster’s commercial roofing
inspection, and we will ensure that they are counting and classifying things
correctly
Commercial Roof Inspection in Superior
If you need a Superior roofing contractor
to conduct repairs or reroofing, be sure you hire a person who first does an
in-depth roof inspection. Contractors, Roofing Systems offers roof inspection
services at no-cost to Superior companies, during which we will examine their
house then provide them with a proposal for services to repair the roofin
The Cost Of Roof Inspection For Your Home
or Office
While you might love seeing those rain
showers from your porch, you may want to spare a moment for your roof. Your
roof is what lets you enjoy every weather, from the comfort of your home. The
problem though is that most homeowners forget to take care of their roof once
they have built their home; it’s this lack of maintenance that can cost a lot.
Why Do You Need Roof Inspection?
A roof inspection is quite important – be
it from the buyer’s side or the owner’s. Knowing the condition of the roof
should be a major consideration before buying a home. The roof is one of the
most expensive elements of a home and unsuspected roof problems could catch you
off guard costing you thousands of dollars. The expense from consequential
damage is often much greater than the cost to fix the roof.
In short, you must examine the roof
condition when buying a new home or building. Make sure you get the roof
professionally inspected. Take a look at the roof inspection report by a
professional before making a final deal. If you are selling your home, roof
inspection becomes important to you as well.
When Should You Get a Roof Inspection?
It is recommended to get a roof inspection
once every three years; this can help in making both your house and roof last
longer. For homes that are older (over 30 years), roof inspections are
recommended frequently. Remember, the average age of a roof is 20 years. If you
live in places with extreme weather, roof inspection can be recommended every
other year.
All certified roof inspectors will pay
attention to the following:
The exterior and interior appearance of the
roof. This helps them detect any physical damage or surface deterioration.
Search for cracks or leaks in the roof.
The overall state of the fascia, skylights,
chimneys, gutters, drains, and vents on the roof.
Shingles that have either curled, broken or
are simply missing,
Finding places which may let water get
collected.
Flashing points that have been damaged.
ROOF INSPECTIONS
When buying or selling a home, it is very
important to know what kind of shape the roof is in. We offer professional roof
inspections for realtors and homeowners that address the major aspects of the
roofing system. We will estimate the useful life of the roof and identify any
problem areas that need to be repaired.
Age of Roof
It’s usually impossible to determine the
exact age of a roof unless we have specific information about when the shingles
were installed, so we’ll generally just estimate the age of the roof based on
our experience.
Life Expectancy
We will try to estimate the useful life
expectancy of your roof. This is impossible to do with precision, but we can
give you a reasonable expectation as to when you will need to replace your
roof.
Layers of Shingles
It can be difficult to determine how many
layers of shingles are on a roof just by looking from the ground. We’ll lift up
the shingles at the bottom of roof to see exactly how many layers of shingles
there are.
General Appearance
A roof is not merely a functional covering
for you home meant to keep water out. It also has aesthetic value. It should
look good. Really good
How Often Should I Have My Roof Inspected?
You keep on top of preventative maintenance
for your health, your car, and even your kids’ homework—but what about keeping
that literal roof over your head in top shape? Sure, Spring cleaning has you
sweeping behind the fridge and winter prep might have you checking to see if
the water pipes are in good shape, but when’s the last time you had the roof
inspected? Roof maintenance is two-fold: One you can do yourself (if only with
a pair of binoculars), but this should be complemented with an expert
inspection at routine intervals.
When looking at a roof yourself, keep an
eye out for uneven surfaces in the decking and cracked caulking. Are any of the
shingles curling, buckling or blistering? Are there even some missing shingles?
Look at the rubber part of the pipe vents and see if they look worn down or
split open. Any damage to chimney caps should be addressed, and if you notice
moss or lichen, that can be a sign of decay. Black algae may seem like a
cosmetic fix that doesn’t necessarily need immediate attention, but it’s an
excellent food source for moss, which can remove granules from the shingle
exposing the asphalt to the sun’s rays
When Action is Necessary
For homeowners with colored grit found in
places like the gutters, that’s a red flag. It might look like sand, but it
means the roof is being exposed to dangerous UV rays. It might be that the
roof’s service life is about to expire, and acting quickly may give you a few
more years. Any shingles with issues require immediate replacement, and there
are some things a handy DIYer can do him or herself, such as nailing back in
loose shingles, but for the most part it’s best to leave things to a pro.
WHAT’S THIS GOING TO COST?
Many reputable roofers offer free or low
cost inspections, but the actual repairs will certainly have a price. Shingle
replacements are usually under $250, common skylight and chimney repairs are
under $500, and repairs to flashing are typically under $25 per foot. And if
you have moss? That’s best removed in the autumn with a moss killer designed
specifically for roofs (don’t use one for lawns, as you’ll suddenly have a
green roof).
THE SKY IS LEAKING
By the time a roof is actively leaking,
it’s probably been damaged for quite awhile. That’s why it’s paramount to keep
up with regular inspections. Telltale signs can include dark spots on the
ceiling interior, peeling paint near roof overhangs, damp areas by the
fireplace, and water stains on the pipes.
Spring Roof Inspection: The Ultimate
Checklist
During the Coronavirus quarantine period,
we’ve all been reminded about how much we rely on our homes and our families.
We must take care of the essentials in life
and invest time and energy into making sure that all is well with them.
We have a chance to do that with the people
we love most – and the same mindset should extend to the place that keeps us
all safe and that we call home
The roof over our heads is an essential
that we rarely even think about. During the lockdown, it’s an ideal time to put
our energies into making sure the roof will continue to keep our families safe
into the future.
The following maintenance checks are
designed for any homeowner and should ideally be performed at least annually.
They apply to whatever type of roof you have.
Mistakes to Avoid While Booking Your Vacation Rentals
There has been an increasing demand for rentals, as compared
to hotels and resorts. However, the rules for hotel booking do not apply to the
rentals you wish to choose. Everything has its own pros and cons. Rentals
provides you with a personalised and customised vacation plan.
You can fine tune, what you need and how you need it. Many
Captiva island rentals, helps you in defining and planning the kind of vacation
you need. Also, there are varied vacation packages designed by the rental
agencies themselves, to save your time and energy. However, there are few
mistakes to avoid, while you choose.
Don’t hurry up in reading the brochure provided
by the owners. You could be easily be misled by the initial glitzy sentences.
Read the whole document to know about parking, AC, cleaning up and other
services.
Don’t take what the owner says about the
distance from your condo to important points in the city. Check it out using
digital map services.
Don’t leave your booking process, through the
rental agencies’ website. Send a mail and make sure you receive a confirmation
from their side, reserving rooms for you, at your preferred dates.
Don’t hide any details regarding your travel. Be
it the dates or the number of people in your group or if there will be any
pets. It will be an ugly scene, if the owner comes around to check on your
comfort, and find that you have lied.
Don’t just assume the availability of amenities,
like internet, AC, housekeeping etc. Make sure you make a list of what’s
available and what’s not.
Don’t overlook the details in the documents.
There is an inherent risk in terms of your transaction. So, take some time to
check about the owner on the net and search for reviews.
Not Knowing When to Book
There is no hard-and-fast rule for the best time to book,
but anticipating the seasonality of a destination and taking into account the
most popular times to make reservations can help save you money.
People like to go to warm destinations in the winter months,
so if you’re targeting a highly desirable destination, it may make sense to
book early. If you are going to a destination with a lot of availability it
might make sense to book later.
Regardless, travelers should try to avoid the most popular
booking times, when rates may be more inflated. According to Trivago.com, the
most popular times to book hotels are at 6 and 9 p.m. EDT on Tuesdays.
(Thursday evenings are a close second.) Checking prices multiple times between
Tuesday night and Sunday (the least popular day to book) may yield different,
possibly lower, prices and allow you to secure the best deal.
Don’t assume the owner will be readily available.
If you think about how often you check with the front desk
during a typical hotel stay, you will recognize that having someone to talk to
about your rental can be very important. Particularly if there is a problem, it
helps to have an actual person to deal with, so be sure to ask if the owner or
a representative will be available during your rental period. Get a reliable
emergency contact number that you can reach if the plumbing breaks, the
electricity goes out or other problems arise.
Don’t fudge the details of your stay.
In the same way you would like owners to be upfront and
honest about their listings, you will want to be honest about who you are
bringing, how many people will be around, if you have a pet in tow and similar
details. Many owners greet their tenants and stop by to make sure things are
going well, so you are likely to be found out if you do fudge the details.
How to avoid a rogue rental
• Rent from a reputable source. Typically, a professionally
managed vacation rental or a by-owner rental belonging to a trade group such as
the Vacation Rental Managers Association or Onsite Property Management
Association is a sign your unit is on the up-and-up.
• Look for guarantees. HomeAway and Airbnb have customer
guarantees that can ensure your rental will meet minimum standards. Wyndham
Vacation Rentals even offers a “bill of rights” that promises a
professionally managed and clean rental.
• Learn to recognize a rogue — and report it. Vacation
rentals that don’t play by the rules tend to price their rentals aggressively and
demand payment by wire. “It’s the cardinal rule. “If the deal is too
good to be true, trust your instincts, and report it to the website in
question.”
Mistakes That Sabotage Vacation Rental Bookings
1. Underestimating the power of research
Do not underestimate the importance of research. In addition
to just listing your properties, the information you pull from sites such as
Airbnb and HomeAway can be invaluable.
2. Having a love affair with just one booking site
It might be easier to work with only one reservation site,
but getting all of your vacation properties listed on all of the booking sites
out there is absolutely crucial. Think of it as a marketing strategy, not just
another listing.
Once you’ve listed them, be sure to document all of the
channels your properties are listed on and keep an updated list on the status
of each property in order to best manage the postings and avoid double
bookings.
3. Your headline is boring
Making your properties stand out from the crowd begins with
a tantalizing headline. Travelers often search for rentals by choice luxury
keyword after they’ve established the location, so be sure to highlight the
most exciting qualities of your property.
4. Your listings aren’t visually exciting
Beware: An eye‐catching headline will fall short
unless it’s been
paired with plenty of gorgeous, dynamic and appealing photographs!
We exist in an information‐overloaded, image‐oriented
world. Take the time to stage your property as if you were preparing to welcome
a guest. Make sure to capture a variety of landscape photos formatted to a size
of at least 1024px x 683px (ideally, 24 pictures total).
There are clear signs that will help you
recognize when your mechanic lied to you. Know how the system works so you
don’t find yourself handing over hundreds of dollars for unneeded repairs and
parts.
It is no secret that some mechanics will
invent repairs or needed buys when you go in for a simple inspection or oil
change. Don’t get me wrong, many mechanics are honest and can help you with
serious car repairs, but some are…well, some are less than reputable. Worst
case scenario, it couldn’t hurt you to know when your mechanic lied to you in
those instances. Sure, you can’t forget that your mechanic is part of a
business when your check engine light comes on, but knowing the difference
between someone helping you or when they are trying to help the financial
situation of their auto repair shop will be crucial to saving you money that
you don’t need to spend.
First,
learn how your car works.
I’m not
saying go to an auto mechanic school. Let me ask you this though, have you read
your owner’s manual? If not, that is a great place to start. The more you know,
the less likely you are to be tricked into spending more at auto repair shops.
Knowing where your engine and air filters are, or even how long a new set
of tires should last, will help you to know if your mechanic has lied to you.
The internet is a priceless tool when researching specific problems. A car is a
hard thing to DIY, but having certain information on hand can help you navigate
a conversation with your mechanic.
Learn the
tactics mechanics use to get you to spend money.
Mechanics
have some pretty common practices and tactics to make sure you spend more than
is necessary; and though it may be sexist to say, mechanics have been
known to lie to women about repairs (although men can fall victim just as
easily). When you need air filter changes, tire rotations, oil changes, or car
repairs, you need to be aware of these tactics.
They’re
wasting extra time so you’ll spend that extra dime.
Some
mechanics will charge you for more time than the repair actually takes. A good
way to guard against this is to know beforehand how long one of these
operations should take. For example, for a tire rotation, the job itself should only take around
30 minutes. Many repair shops will charge for almost two hours of work. That’s
an hour and a half of free money coming from your wallet. A simple search around Google or a
conversation with a knowledgeable friend can help you save a lot of money when
going in for a car repair or simple maintenance.
Some
mechanics will tell you a blatant lie about work they haven’t done.
On the
same train of thought as charging for extra hours, you can also be charged for
work that has never occurred. This tactic can really put a dent in your pocket
for work that may need to be done later on. How can a mechanic get away with a
tactic like that? There are air filters that are hard enough to get to that you
will never be able to physically see a difference in when looking under the
hood of your car. A mechanic can easily tell you work has been done at their
auto repair shop knowing that you won’t be able to tell if there was a change
or not.
Common Car Repair Issues
Watch out for these potential problems:
The shop waits until the vehicle is up on the lift and partially disassembled before getting your authorization to proceed with the repairs. By then, you are essentially forced to: (a) authorize overpriced repairs or risk getting your car back in a disassembled and unusable condition; or (b) pay a large and unexpected fee to have your vehicle reassembled, only to discover it no longer runs at all;
The shop shows you dirty oil with metal filings in it as evidence that you need a new transmission. Virtually all used transmissions have dirty oil with some amount of dirt and metal filings. This is normal and is not necessarily a sign that you need a whole new transmission. However, once the transmission is disassembled and reassembled with the same old seals and parts, it usually does not work the same as before;
The shop starts repair work on your car without first getting your authorization to perform the repair work, and then charges you for repair work that you did not authorize;
The shop gives you a verbal estimate as to the cost of repairs, then charges a higher price;
Don’t take it to the dealership after the warranty has
expired
A rule to live by when you’ve got an older
car without a warranty—never take your car to the dealership. They charge more
for everything—parts, hourly compensation, etc. Of course, the dealership is
your cheapest option if you have a warranty because everything will be covered
and of no cost to you.
At the dealership, there’s a good
chance you won’t actually be met by the mechanic—an advantage you get with a
smaller repair shop. There will likely be someone hired specifically for
customer service that will explain what’s wrong with your car and take
your money.
If you appreciate good customer service and
a friendly relationship, you’re better off with a private garage (not that all
dealerships are evil, but in my experience, they aren’t the greatest).
However, it is best to bring certain cars
to the dealership. Take my Saturn Ion for example. Mechanics hate my car
because Saturns aren’t made anymore so they can never find parts for it.
Saturns were a short-lived production by General Motors that didn’t pan
out.
GM dealers are able to find parts
easier and their mechanics have more experience with the type of car. So while
it may be more expensive, sometimes it’s best, if you’re in the same situation
as me, to take your car some place that knows what they’re doing rather
than chance it.
Meeting
with the Service Writer
Here are some steps you should take to make
sure you are describing the problem fully. Remember, you know your vehicle
better than anyone. When something is wrong, try to pinpoint the symptoms
before taking the car in for service.
What to Look For
Unusual sounds, odors, leaks, warning lights, or smoke Where in the vehicle is the sound coming from? When does it happen? When the engine is running? When the engine is cold? When you’re accelerating? Braking? Turning? Going above or at a certain speed?
Problems in handling or braking Do you feel vibrations in the steering column or the brake pedal? Does the steering pull to the right or the left? Are your tires wearing unevenly?
Changes in performance Has your engine performance decreased? Is your fuel economy falling? Do you regularly have to add coolant or oil? Are belts or hoses wearing out faster than they should?
When you explain the problem to the
technician or service representative, be as detailed as possible. Don’t rush or
let yourself be intimidated.
Although the technician or service
representative probably can’t diagnose your problem on the spot, ask questions.
If you don’t understand the answers, ask for clarification.
Be sure the repair shop has a number where
you can be reached. If the technician is going to call you later with a
diagnosis, ask when. If you’re going to call the shop, be sure you know the
number and best time to call.
Evaluate the Shop
When checking out an unfamiliar mechanic’s
shop for the first time look for the following:
A clean lot with plenty of turnover: Quality mechanics take pride in the appearance of their shops and rapidness of their repairs. If the shop’s lot is clean, the work floor tidy and bright, and there aren’t a bunch of half-repaired clunkers lined up out front, that’s good.
A knowledgeable Service Writer: The service writer is the guy that sits behind the shop’s front counter and produces the estimates and repair bills. He’s the one that you’ll be primarily interacting with while your car is in the shop and is responsible for answering the questions you have. If he’s reticent or not very helpful, that’s a huge red flag.
Talk to the mechanics: If possible, talk to the guys that will actually have their hands under the hood. Get a feel for their age and expertise. Some older mechanics will be whizzes at fixing classics but may not be as sharp when it comes to scanning the on-board diagnostics of this year’s 5-Series. Also ask about how long they’ve been with the shop. A high turnover rate is very, very bad. If the shop’s been there for more than a year but none of the mechanics have been there longer than six months, bail.
Mold and mildew problems in your home are
no laughing matter. For starters, mold is an indicator of another serious
problem: excess moisture. Whether it’s a roof leak, poor attic ventilation, or
moisture problems in other areas of the home (basements are common problem
areas), excess moisture can cause a large array of building materials to warp,
stain, crack, fail, and rot. Furthermore, once mold sets in, serious health
concerns come into play.
Consider Hiring a Mold Remediation Contractor
If you have a mold problem in your home, be
it black mold, green mold, white mold, or any other color, your first step is
to pick up the phone and call a mold remediation contractor. These specialists
are licensed by the state you live in and educated in the safest, most
efficient ways to eliminate mold from your home. Never try to tackle a mold
problem by your lonesome.
You Can’t Remove Mold until You’ve Fixed
Your Moisture Problem
Mold remediation starts with fixing the
source of your moisture problem. If you’re experiencing mold in your attic,
then roof leaks or poor ventilation are your most likely causes. If you have
mold problems elsewhere in the home, everything from leaking plumbing to a
seeping foundation could be to blame. Whatever the cause of your moisture
issue, you need to get it fixed as soon as possible. Your mold problem isn’t
going to go away until you’ve addressed it, and you also risk serious
structural and aesthetic damage to your home if you choose to ignore the
problem.
Once your mold remediation contractor has
identified and fixed the source of your moisture problem, they will then move
on to removing the mold itself. The steps for mold remediation are the same,
whether you’re dealing with black mold, green mold, or another variety.
Seal off the area. Mold remediation always
requires that you begin by sealing off the area with plastic sheeting and tape
before you perform any work. This keeps potentially dangerous mold spores
contained in the work area itself, instead of distributing the mold throughout
the home.
Wet vacuum. A wet vacuum will clean up any
standing water and water soaked surfaces, as well as vacuum up mold itself.
Never use a dry vacuum to remove mold, however, since a dry vacuum is the
perfect vehicle for launching mold spores into the air.
Kill the mold using an approved fungicide
applied with either a sprayer or fogger. Never use bleach, as it is ineffective
at killing, or keeping away, mold problems.
Clean the area thoroughly. Clean the area
using whatever means necessary. This may include scrubbing, scraping, cleaning
up dust and debris with a HEPA vacuum, and even removing building materials,
furniture, and anything else contaminated by mold. Any materials that are
removed should be sealed in plastic bags and labeled before being disposed of.
Dry out the Area. Finally, be sure to dry
out the area thoroughly by using fans, dehumidifiers, and father time. If you
don’t dry it out completely before doing restoration work, you’re very likely
to have mold resurface again shortly down the road.If you’ve got black mold,
green mold, or any other type, call a mold remediation specialist as soon as
possible. Remember, your home and your health are riding on it.
Tips On Hiring Mold Removal Services
Having mold in your home or workplace can
be quite challenging. Mold is not only harmful to your health but will also
lower your home’s value if not treated early enough. Experts suggest that you
treat mold as soon as you notice and while it is still manageable. The health
problems caused by mold usually come out as allergic reactions, causing
illnesses such as asthma attacks, skin rashes and sneezing among other
conditions. If you ever notice any mold in your home or office, you’ll need to
call a professional mold removal service provider.
Mold removal involves the use of various
products and tools to kill the parasite that brings about the spread. Without
proper use of these products and tools, mold will usually come back. This is
why it is important that you only hire a professional to handle your case.
Choosing a Professional Mold Removal
Service
There are many mold remediation services to
choose from and deciding which one to select can be confusing. A simple Google
search will present you with countless mold removal companies operating in your
area, making it even more difficult to separate the good from the not-so-good.
Experience and Reputation
The first thing you need to check when
considering a potential mold removal service is an experience. It is essential
that you only choose a company that has been operating for an extended period
of time. You also need to ensure the company you choose has a good reputation
among previous customers by reading reviews from various sources. Before
treating your home, a reliable company will first carry out an inspection
before formulating strategies that will both get rid of your current
predicament and prevent farther problems down the road.
License and Insurance
Mold removal services must adhere to strict
rules and regulations before they are handed a license to run their business.
Proof of license, therefore, indicates professionalism and you’ll have more
confidence in trusting your home to a licensed professional. Workers
compensation insurance is an insurance policy that covers workers in case they
get injured while working at your home. This type of cover will protect you
from financial responsibility in case one or more workers get into accidents
while at your premise.
Residential & Commercial Mold
Prevention Tips
For large moldy drywall jobs, we recommend
that you contact a mold remediation professional to ensure the moldy sheetrock
is properly removed to avoid cross contamination. They can also ensure the
water leak or condensation source is identified and fixed. Use our online mold
remediation contractor directory to find a water damage mold remediation
professional in your area.
First turn off your heat or air
conditioning and close/seal vents in the damaged room. Close or seal doorways,
too. Mold spores will get airborne when removing mold damaged sheetrock. So
sealing the room is important.
For maximum safety, professionals will tell
you to use a fan to vent air in the room directly to the outside of the home.
Professionals will also tell you to use an
industrial HEPA filter vacuum on the mold damaged surfaces to prevent mold
spores from getting airborn during the moldy drywall removal process. We
suggest using our Endurance BioBarrier Mold Prevention Spray on these moldy
surfaces before removing. Let the spray penetrate for 24 hours to eliminate the
mold spores.
Protect yourself against mold allergy
symptoms by using a P100 mask, rubber gloves, goggles, and a body suit. After
removing water and mold damaged drywall, be sure to check for mold that may
have spread to the insulation and studs, plus the opposite side drywall behind
the insulation. You may need to remove moldy insulation and the drywall on
opposite side behind the insulation.
Top Tips for Mould Removal and Prevention
Whether you own or rent a property, mould
can be a huge problem. On the one hand a mould infestation can affect your
quality of living – especially if you suffer from asthma; on the other hand if
the mould occurs during your tenancy you may be expected to cover the cost of
the cleaning. A common problem in flats, apartments, and maisonettes, mould can
strike any property. As with most issues in life, prevention is the best cure,
although there are many ways you can deal with an existing mould problem.
Dry clothes outside
Wet clothes can be a major reason for damp
and mould developing. From just one load of washing, over 2 litres of moisture
is released into the air! Drying clothes outside may not be practical for
everyone, as not everyone has access to an outdoor drying area. If you do need
to dry your clothes indoors, ensure a window is opened to provide the
much-needed ventilation that may prevent damp developing. You can also look
into products such as this ‘Moisture absorber’ which is a low-cost solution to
deal with excessive moisture in the air.
Open a window and shut the door!
If you are doing something that will
release a lot of steam into the room, close the door and open a window. This
applies to boiling a kettle, having a shower/bath, and cooking. If you have an
extractor fan then this can really help to reduce the moisture, but closing the
door will prevent the moisture from spreading into the other rooms of your
house. If you don’t have an extractor, be sure to open a window- especially in
winter months where steam will condense on cool surfaces!
Furniture and Walls
Exterior walls are often slightly colder
than interior walls and therefore more susceptible to damp and mould. Keep
furniture away from these walls, instead placing them against interior walls.
Another way to reduce your chances of mould is to leave a slight gap between
all walls and furniture to leave room for air flow. If you have limited space,
then try to regularly clean behind the furniture and ensure you dry the wall
after you clean it.
Declutter
Overfilled cupboards are a breeding ground
for mould as there isn’t much air-flow. Adopt the Japanese method by Marie
Kondo, and declutter your life (and cupboards) for mould-free joy!
TIPS YOU NEED TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING A
MOLD REMEDIATION COMPANY
Molds are silent intruders; they grow
unnoticed in dark, moist and warm places or objects that are not used
regularly, such as bags, shoes and other things made of leather. Cold and wet
seasons are often the times when molds appear. The seven suggestions on how to
choose a mold remediation company are: choose a remediation company wisely;
examine the degree of infestation, count the cost of remediation, hire an
expert, do research, seek advice, and compare and contrast services.
CHOOSE WISELY
The first thing you have to consider is to
choose wisely. You have your property and money at stake, so be wise. Do not be
fooled by appearances or offers of discounts and attractive offers. Trust your
instincts and investigate.
EXAMINE THE DEGREE OF INFESTATION
Secondly, removing mold is not a DIY job.
You need help in evaluating the condition of your residential or commercial
unit. The bigger the place, the more mold problems could be hidden from your
view. It takes an expert to examine the severity of the mold infestation and
determine the proper treatment and cleaning.
COUNT THE COST OF REMEDIATION
Does your insurance cover some or all of
the processes? ServiceMaster of Cobb works with your insurance company. Money
is something that you have to be careful of especially when getting the
services of a mold remediation company. You have to make sure that you get your
money’s worth. This can be measured by the quality of their performance and
products, the length of warranty, and consumer satisfaction
HIRE AN EXPERT
A professional mold remediation company
will be able to make a thorough evaluation of your property after mold has
grown within your premises. You have to choose a company offering mold removal
Cartersville that can be trusted because their technicians are well-trained and
equipped for every residential or commercial mold remediation and related
concerns.
Reasons To Choose Us As Your Sofa Cleaning
Company
Sofa cleaning is a really tedious exercise
for most individuals. Most homeowners feel that they would rather be doing more
important things than clean their sofa sets. For this reason, outsourcing
presents the best solution. Many homeowners find it very convenient to hire a
service provider such as Singapore laundry. As we perform upholstery cleaning,
there are a number of procedures we follow to ensure your furniture looks
sparkling. Below are seven reasons why you should choose us as your preferred
sofa cleaning company.
Seeking services of a service provider like
us is really simple more so if you have allocated the budget. We cater to all
your upholstery cleaning needs while ensuring we meet all your expectations. To
add onto this, we will provide you with a service agreement that is reasonable
since we believe that all our clients have various cleaning needs. Some may
just ask for the most common routines but it is important to note that not all
clients requirements are usually the same. We are highly capable of handling
all types of client needs while providing them with a detailed and
comprehensive breakdown of the cost of services provided.
For instance should you make enquiries to
ascertain this, we will be able to give you information regarding how our
personnel have been trained. Hiring firms that do not properly train their
employees is likely to ruin or damage your sofa sets. In addition, personnel
who do not undergo sufficient training expose you to numerous health hazards.
Upholstery and Furniture Cleaning Services
Full Content and header tag updates: We’d
like to be mess-free 100% of the time, but life gets in the way of that. Kids,
pets and spilled food or drink can turn your beautiful furniture into a
disaster. Trust Sears Home Services with all of your furniture cleaning needs.
Clean upholstery brightens up the whole room. Sears offers upholstery cleaning
services to get ground-in dirt, stubborn stains and unpleasant odors out of your
upholstered furniture.
wo-step upholstery cleaning process
First, a trained upholstery technician
applies a heated fabric-cleaning spray to lift dirt out of the upholstery
fibers.
Next, the technician uses a high-powered
rinse and extraction machine to remove the dirt and cleaning solution.
New furniture is coated with built-in
fabric protectors, but these wear off over time. We recommend applying new
upholstery protector after each upholstery cleaning. Reapplying the protector
helps maintain the beauty, color and vibrancy of your furniture. An upholstery
protector not only defends your fabric from stains and spills but it buys you
time to clean up a spill before a stain sets.
Quick cleaning your entry area
Make sure to inspect what your guests see
when they enter your home. Clean glass on the door, remove shoes, keys and
mail. Broom sweep the entry, wipe down scuffs on the door and sanitize door
handles and light switches.
Quick cleaning bedrooms
Make beds, removing laundry, dump trash and
quickly dust furniture
Upholstery Cleaning
Types of Upholstery Cleaning
provide hot water extraction, dry or
leather cleaning depending on the upholstery type. The upholstery cleaning
experts will inspect your sofa and chairs. Then, determine the most suitable cleaning
technique for their fabric. We treat each furniture piece differently depending
on its condition and specific maintenance requirements. The service beings by
inspecting the fabric of the upholstery and choosing the most suitable cleaning
method. Followed by pre-treatment of any stains. Then cleaning the upholstery
and leaving it to dry. The drying time is from 2-6 hours. Depending on the
fabric of the item.
Steam Cleaning
The couch steam cleaning is a process that
infuses the fabric of your upholstered sofa and chairs with hot steam under
high pressure. It extracts all the accumulated dirt and moisture. This method
is suitable for all types of fabrics.
Takeaways: Hot water extraction removes any
trace of grime, bacteria, pollen and dust that’s been accumulated inside the
upholstery. Your upholstery will be left slightly damp and will dry up on its
own for 2 to 6 hours depending on the fabric type and seasonality.
Dry Cleaning
The dry cleaning method is suitable for
more delicate fabric. We’ll inspect the upholstery and test the cleaning
solution on a small spot. Stains will be pre-treated with the proper
detergents. We’ll apply a powerful liquid solvent with high pressure and infuse
it deep into the fabric. The solvent will be extracted along with the dirt with
the help of a commercial cleaning machine.
Pros: The process provides a gentle, yet,
powerful cleaning for delicate fabrics. The high-pressure cleaning will work
deep into the fabric. It will sanitise and refresh the upholstery of your sofa and
chairs.
Upholstery Cleaning
Upholstery cleaning – Having your lounge suite, couch or sofa upholstery cleaned by Carpet Cleaning is an easy way to freshen up your home. Also a freshly cleaned lounge suite is the next best thing to purchasing a new lounge suite.
experienced upholstery cleaners and Springfield Lakes use the latest upholstery cleaning methods to safely clean your delicate lounge suite upholstery. Because of our experience in cleaning lounge suites, we will have your lounge suite or sofa upholstery cleaned, deodorised and dry in no time
Don’t worry, your lounge suite or couch
cleaning is in good hands. We clean hundreds of fabric lounges suites and
couches every year. Therefore we have seen and dealt with all types of lounge
suite cleaning needs. Be it stain removal, removing dark dirty areas on the arm
rests/head rests or deodorising and sanitising. We can clean it all.
First step is to identify what type of
material that we are going to clean. Most lounge suites are mircofibre/micro
suede, Some are made from cotton, polyester, polypropylene or nylon. We then
apply the appropriate cleaning solutions paying particular attention to the
head rests and arm rests. Sometimes these areas may need a little extra
agitation.
powerful truck-mount cleaning system
creates its own hot water. Therefore it is no match for dirt, grime and
residual odours. Combined with our effective cleaning solutions, your fabric
lounge suite upholstery will be left fresh and clean.
Upholstery Cleaning
The professionals at Absolute Best Cleaning
know that quality upholstered furniture can be quite an investment. Children,
pets, and everyday use can leave your expensive furniture looking stained and
dingy. Furniture cleaning can be a challenge. It is difficult to clean
upholstery without the proper equipment, and you may do more harm than good by
attempting to spot clean your own furniture. Professional upholstery cleaning
will both improve the appearance of your furniture, and protect your investment
by extending your furniture’s useful life. Regular upholstery cleaning will
also remove indoor air pollutants such as dust mites, and pollen and will
contribute to healthier indoor air quality.
First, we spray a cleaning solution onto
the fabric to loosen embedded soils. We then rinse with a neutralizing
solution, and extract the soil and solution from the fabric. This method, steam
cleaning, is very effective on most fabrics. However, we also have the ability
to dry clean certain fine fabrics such as chintz, moire, etc. Our 25 years of
experience and education enable us to properly identify your fabric and choose
the appropriate furniture cleaning method.
After cleaning upholstery, we recommend the
application of a fiber protector. If your furniture is properly protected, you
will have a better chance of cleaning up spots and spills before they become
permanent.
Raccoons are mammals that become problems
when they raid garbage cans and bird/pet feeders, tear up gardens and lawns
looking for food or use chimneys, attics, crawlspaces or hollow areas beneath
porches and outbuildings for dens.
Raccoons can be very vicious when cornered or protecting their
young. They are the main carriers of
rabies in our area and in the United States.
Raccoons are omnivores – they eat both
plants and animals
Raccoons not only spread rabies through
their saliva (which is 100% fatal in humans); they also spread raccoon
roundworm eggs in their feces which cause damage to the liver, spleen, lungs,
eyes, nervous system or possibly death in severe cases. Roundworm occurs when the eggs are accidently
ingested/inhaled after contacting contaminated feces.
Raccoons are very strong and agile. They have elongated “fingers” that allow them
to pry open garbage can lids, rip off shingles, flashing , roof decking, fascia
(trim) boards, rooftop ventilators, crawlspace vents and doors, attic
insulation, insulation on HVAC lines and ductwork, etc..
Raccoons will destroy gardens and lawns
looking for vegetables, fruit, grubs (below sod), food scraps in garbage or
compost, animal/bird food from feeders and other natural foods in the environment.
Raccoons will establish latrines throughout
their dens. In attics the feces and
urine can stain the ceiling below – accompanied by an objectionable odor. In crawlspaces and under decks and buildings
their waste is often throughout and on the vapor barrier (if one exists).
Raccoons, as well as most wildlife, also
carry a lot of ectoparasites (mites, fleas, ticks, bed bugs, etc.) which can
infest adjacent living spaces especially after the animals are removed.
When capturing raccoons it is important to
identify if the animal is a lactating female (breast feeding the young) so the
nest can be located and the young also removed.
Raccoons are generally born in April or May
(after the adults overwinter and mate) but earlier and later litters are not
uncommon.
A raccoon litter will range from 3-6 babies
which will grow to 2-3 feet long and weigh 10-30 pounds. Family groups remain together for the first
year then strike out on their own.
Because of the plentiful availability of
food and den sites, and because of their intelligence and adaptability, urban
and suburban raccoon populations can quickly become very large.
Management/removal/exclusion:
An initial thorough inspection is the most
important part of solving a raccoon problem.
Raccoons are usually trapped alive and then
removed
Raccoons have to be euthanized as required
by law because of their high potential for rabies. Additionally, captured
raccoons, if released would probably attack another dwelling.
In addition to repairing the destroyed
entry, we utilized custom cut galvanized steel flashing and galvanized steel
hardware cloth to reinforce the exclusion areas. This is extremely important to prevent future
infestations.
We also remove the feces/urine and
associated contaminated materials and treat with organic decomposition
materials to clean and deodorize the area.
If necessary, new insulation can be added by along with other repairs/replacement of vents, shingles, etc.
Finally, removal or securing any potential
food sources will discourage new dominant raccoons from attempting to establish
a new home site in the same area.
Contact PCA to have a state licensed
wildlife damage control agent develop a plan of action to solve your raccoon
problem and our associated warranty.
Raccoons
Raccoons can be major nuisances to
homeowners and businesses for a variety of reasons. Most importantly, raccoons
are carriers of parasites such as fleas and ticks as well as several highly
infectious and dangerous diseases. Raccoons are a common carrier of rabies.
Also, raccoons carry a highly infectious roundworm, that is potentially fatal
to humans.
The raccoon’s dexterity can make them
particularly pesky, as their long nimble fingers allow them to do things such
as open garbage cans, turn knobs and work latches.
Besides the spread of disease, raccoons are
known to cause a host of other problems for property owners, including:
Raiding garbage cans and spreading refuse
across properties
Tearing up landscaping with their
“grubbing” behavior as they dig for scarab beetles on which to feed.
Raccoons also become problematic when they
use areas beneath decks, porches or sheds for their dens.
If you have pets, a raccoon infestation can
lead to a violent encounter that could damage the health of both animals.
Raccoons are known to be fierce fighters when cornered and have inflicted fatal
wounds during encounters with even large dogs.
raccoon removal services
As your local pest control experts, i
understands the stress and frustration that can be caused by a raccoon infestation.
All Rentokil Technicians providing raccoon removal services are individually
licensed to perform wildlife trapping as required by state law.
Raccoons are extremely difficult to remove
from properties without specialized training. technicians attend monthly pest
control training seminars so they can stay up-to-date with the best baiting and
trapping practices in the industry
Tips on choosing a wildlife or pest control
company
When considering hiring a company to come
to your home to control an animal or pest problem, there are a few things you
can do help insure you hire a reliable, capable and experienced company that
you can trust in your home and to get the job done right.
Sometimes, you don’t have a lot of time. A
lot can be written about hiring the right company but since wildlife and pest
problems tend to happen suddenly or be of an emergency nature, you may not have
time to spend and need a few quick ideas to help ensure the right choice.
Examples might be a snake or bat in your living room, a noise in your attic
keeping you awake all night or squirrels chewing their way into your attic. You
need help quick! That is what I will
talk about here. Sometimes, you are not rushed but want to make a informed
decision. You may have a bat colony in the attic, but they have not made it
into the living space. Maybe a skunk under your shed. In these case’s you may
have a little more time to do some research.
All the better. Start here and in the near future I will do part B, or
more tips on choosing a wildlife and pest control company.
Expect who you hire to have liability
insurance. What we see is company’s
claiming to have insurance coverage when they really do not. Not only does this leave you, the customer
vulnerable should an accident occur but it suggests that someone who lies about insurance coverage
might lie about other aspects of the job
or their company as well. The simple
solution is ask them to bring a copy of their liability insurance
certificate. Don’t be afraid to ask. Anyone who does not have proof of insurance
should be passed in your hiring decision.
Consider the length of time a company has
been in business. A fact in the wildlife control business is that
a lot of start up companies last about 2 years and then go out of
business. When dealing with so many
animal and pest species in so many different situations, it easily takes two years or more just to get
enough experience to handle the many different calls that arise in this
business. A Raccoon may be in your
chimney, in a garage loft, under the home in a crawl space or ripping shingles
off your roof to gain entry. It may or may not have young racoon pups. I
address all these and many more situations differently. It is seldom just a
matter of setting a trap. The experience I have gained over the last 15 years
has helped me solve these problems in the quickest and most efficient way with
the least amount of stress to you the homeowner and the animals involved. Ask the company how long they have been in
the nuisance wildlife or pest control
business. Five years experience
is not to much to ask.
Ask the potential company if they are licensed. Believe it or not, this is a problem in Connecticut. Recently, someone who lives on my street was arrested for hiring himself out to remove nuisance raccoons, skunks and wildlife. When a problem with the charges to the customer and the actual work itself developed, it was discovered that this person had no license for wildlife work.
Squirrels, Raccoons or Bird control
Squirrels and Raccoons
Squirrels and Raccoons may seek shelter,
entering your home through an open hole(s) or creating their own entrance to
warmth. Once they feel comfortable inside, Squirrels and Raccoons may choose to
stay even when the weather turns warm again
We will inspect the entire premise
thoroughly to find all squirrel openings. We will use repellent, bait and
trapping methods to flush the squirrels / raccoons out of the occupied areas.
Setting traps is also a part of the control procedure and will depend on the
recommendations of your professional pest control operator. Upon elimination of
the pests, our technician will patch and close all accessible openings they’ve
created up to 12″ in diameter and 18″ in length. (Ladder work up to 30 ft high
only.) We will also take necessary action to eliminate any additional pest the
squirrels/raccoons may have been carrying on them. This will further protect
you, your family and your home.
Raccoons & Wildlife
A raccoon is located in the walls, attic, or roof areas of a dwelling (or any other areas that are not common areas). In these circumstances, you can either purchase a humane animal trap from a hardware or pest control retailer (such as Lowe’s or Home Depot), or contact a Licensed Wildlife Control (removal) agency. We will retrieve a raccoon from your location once it has been trapped for a fee or you may deliver the raccoon to our 111 West Hunting Park Avenue location. *Please note per law that prohibits us from re-releasing, all adult raccoon brought to euthanized (killed).
Healthy wildlife is found in yards,
streets, parks, etc. These animals
should be left alone and trapping of healthy wildlife is prohibited under state
law with the exception of certain, special circumstances. If they are brought to the shelter, per law
many CANNOT be relocated-they will be euthanized (killed). Use the resources provided above to deter
these animals from frequenting your neighborhood.
FOUND A BABY ANIMAL? Please scroll to the
bottom of the page for more information.
Although Philadelphia is a large city, it
is not uncommon to observe wildlife walking about on neighborhood streets—even
during the daylight hours.Trapping is an ineffective way to eliminate wildlife
from your neighborhood. As long as food and shelter is available, neighboring
animals will move in
If you are concerned about wildlife near
your property, there are several precautions you can take:
Use metal garbage cans with secure lids.
Use bungee cord or wire to secure the lids. Place cans in a rack or tie them to
a post to prevent raccoons from tipping them over.
Do not leave bags of trash in front of your
property or on the sidewalk. Most
wildlife are drawn to the smell of trash and, if they can access it easily,
will consider your property a nice place to eat.
Do not put food on the ground for birds or
other animals. If you are feeding birds,
make sure you use a commercial bird feeder that wildlife cannot access. If you are feeding feral cats, always place
food in a container and pick it up after a short time.
Repair all holes and openings in your roof,
siding, porch, etc. Wildlife will often
gain entry to properties through weak structures and take up residence.
Trim tree branches that overhang rooftops.
If possible, a gap of at least 5 feet should exist between the tree and your
roof.
Remove trellises and arbors that can give
raccoons and other wildlife access to your roof.
Use Philly311 to contact Philadelphia
License and Inspections and report abandoned or dilapidated homes and city code
violations in your area that wildlife has inhabited.
Cover chimneys with a spark arrester that
meets fire code. Make sure no animals are nesting inside your chimney before
covering it.
Cover open spaces beneath structures such
as porches, decks, and tool sheds with 10-gauge 1/4- or 1/3-inch galvanized hardware
mesh. The bottom edge of the wire should be buried at least 6 inches deep,
extended outward for 12 inches, and then back-covered with soil. This will also
keep out skunks, opossums, squirrels and rats.
Ordinary fences can be made raccoon-proof
by adding a single strand of electrified wire about 8 inches from the ground
and 8 inches from the base of the fence. A two-wire electric fence can be used
to exclude raccoons from gardens. The two wires are fastened on evenly spaced
wooden posts; one wire is 5-6 inches above the ground and the other is 10-12
inches above the ground. The fence charger needs to be activated from dusk to
dawn. (Make sure that you install properly and identify with warning signs.)
How to keep your hardwood floors looking
fantastic
New
hardwood floors — or restored old ones — can be a beautiful addition to your
home. But they’re also a huge investment.
You can
make that investment last longer with some simple care tips. Here’s how to keep
your hardwood floors looking great, long after the installation or renovation.
Start
with a clean sweep
You need
to sweep hardwood once a day, but your typical broom isn’t going to cut it.
Invest in a dust mop such as the O-Cedar Dual-Action Microfiber Sweeper (which
is what I use) or something similar. These mops have wide heads that trap dust
without making micro scratches in the floor’s finish.
Be sure
to push the mop in one direction and swivel to turn. Don’t lift the head of the
mop off the floor until you’re done. If you lift the mop prematurely, dust and
lint will be released into the air and you’ll need to re-mop the area you just
finished. I learned this trick when I
was a school janitor cleaning gymnasium floors way back in the day.
When
you’re done, there will be a line of gunk where your mop stopped. Use a small
microfiber brush and dustpan to gather it up.
Then place the end of the mop into a garbage sack. Close the opening of
the sack around the handle with your hand and give the mop a good shake to
release trapped dust and debris.
Keep it
dry
This may
be counter to what you’ve learned about housekeeping, but don’t use wet mops or
steam mops on your wood floors. The moisture can damage the finish and may even
harm the wood after a while, according to the National Wood Flooring
Association. Instead, use a cleaner that’s made for wood floors. Many of these
products are formulated to work with the type of finish you have on your
floors, so make sure you read the labels before you make a purchase. Carefully
follow the directions on the bottle when you clean. It’s usually recommended
that you clean your floors only once a month with cleanser.
Beyond
cleaning
Cleaning
your hardwood floors properly isn’t the only thing that will keep them nice.
You also need to take some preventative measures. Clean up spills or any other
moisture right away to avoid damage to the wood. A damp cotton or microfiber
cloth is ideal for spot cleaning. Consider applying a UV coating on your home’s
windows. UV rays can bleach the hardwood over time, leaving discolored spots on
areas that get the most sunlight.
Finally:
Pointy things are bad. Don’t sashay across the floor in high heel shoes, for
example. The pointy heel can leave divots in the wood. Furniture legs can also
leave imprints and scratches, so be sure to put felt floor protectors on the
bottom of each leg.
Is Steam Cleaning Safe for
Your Hardwood?
Despite what the appliance companies would
have you believe, you should never use a steam mop on a hardwood floor. The
pictures on the company websites and boxes of these gadgets often feature a
person cleaning and happily ruining their hardwood floors with this expensive
appliance.
The intense heat drives the moisture deep
into the wood and causes irreparable damage. After just a one or two cleanings
with a steam mop, planks can shrink or swell, buckle, splinter, delaminate, and
look aged well beyond their years.
You can potentially use a steam mop on
hardwood if you’re confident your floors have been sealed, and that the
hardwood seal is still in-tact. To test this, drip a small amount of water on
your floor. If it beads up right away, the seal is likely still intact and. If
the water seeps into your wood or runs without beading, your floors need to be
resealed.
Things To Think About
High quality microfiber mop pads will make
cleaning your floor easy, but not everyone that looks the same, cleans the
same. If you get one that has pads made from superior material, it will take
you less time to do the job, and you will use less energy. As an added benefit,
you will also polish the wood as you remove dirt. Because you are not introducing
a bunch of moisture, you never run any risk of damage, and based upon the super
gentle material, you will never mark or scratch the surface either.
The broom you choose is also important.
With such a wide variety out there, usefulness certainly varies, but so does
safeness. If you use a low quality tool to sweep your wood floors, then you can
scratch them up or ruin the finish, and that is on top of getting frustrated
over removing the dirt. We always suggest a rubber broom for hardwood because
they are gentle on the surface, but they also remove dirt with amazing
efficiency. Other models may work as well, but these have proven to outperform
most other options. The rubber bristles form a solid wall to sweep up debris in
a single pass, and a slight charge that builds prevents annoying stuff like fur
balls and dust that flies away. With a little bit of preventative maintenance
and some common sense, you will be able to keep your hardwood floor looking
fabulous for many years. There are only a few simple steps and rules to follow
when dealing with hardwood flooring because it is actually one of the easiest
flooring types to care for.
Hardwood Flooring
Maintenance
KEEPING YOUR HARDWOOD FLOORS LOOKING NEW
Hardwood floors are an elegant addition to
any home, but they need a little TLC to keep them looking fantastic. Rather
than just hoping for the best, you can learn all about hardwood flooring care
and ensure that you treat those beautiful planks right. Here are a few tips and
tricks that are easy to follow and sure to work.
PROTECTION FROM FEET
While you may worry about people walking
over the floor in hard-soled shoes, the bigger concern is actually the feet on
your furniture. If you can arrange the furniture so that it sits on area rugs,
that’s the ideal solution. Any furniture legs that are directly on the hardwood
will be prone to sliding, and that will lead to localized scratching. Put felt
pads on the bottoms of all legs to protect the floor. They come in a range of
sizes, and they have stick-on backs for easy application. Replace them as they
wear down.
INVEST IN THE RIGHT CLEANERS
As you learn how to care for your hardwood
floor, you’ll discover that there are countless products to choose from. The
trick is actually to base it on what’s in your house. Older floors that have
worn finishes may benefit from lemon oil to nourish the wood and keep it
moisturized. New floors that have been finished at the factory should be
cleaned using specialized products like Bruce Hardwood Floor Cleaner.
NEVER USE RUBBER
This is one of those hard and fast rules of
hardwood flooring care that you’ll want to embrace. You can buy rubber mats to
go under area rugs, but you’ll damage the floor by doing so. The rubber chokes
the wood, prevents it from breathing and leads to discoloration. Use heavy
furniture on a few edges of the rug to keep it in place, and try to reposition
the carpet regularly.
Learning how to care for your hardwood
floor isn’t as hard as you might think. Use place mats at the doors to capture
dirt before it can be tracked on the floor, and encourage your family to take
their shoes off before moving around the house. By following these rules and
the ones listed above, you’ll be able to keep those beautiful wood floors
looking amazing.
Things That Should Never,
Ever Touch A Hardwood Floor:
Wet mops: The #1 source of damage to
finishes – Although people might think that sloshing a soaking wet mop back and
forth over their floors is a good idea, this will actually ruin the finish and
damage the wood itself. A mop that is used to clean hardwood floors should only
be slightly damp.
Vinegar is good for cleaning many things,
but not hardwood floors – White vinegar was once a popular product used to
clean hardwood floors. And a quick Google search reveals that a lot of people
still recommend using it. But vinegar should not be used as a hardwood floor
cleaner because its acidity can lead to etching in the wood’s surface.
Don’t use ammonia to clean hardwood floors
Avoid ammonia – Ammonia will discolor,
deteriorate, and dull the finish. Using ammonia to clean a wood floor will take
years off of its life.
Steam cleaners are bad news – You should
only use steam cleaners on carpets and other surfaces that they are designed
for. Using a steam cleaner on a hardwood floor can cause peeling, cracking, and
cloudiness in the finish.
Popular cleaning products – Most of the
cleaning products sold in grocery stores aren’t friendly to wood. They’ll
damage the finish if used over a long period of time. Pair one of these
products with a soaking wet mop and you’ve got a recipe for disaster.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Payroll
Provider
Choosing a payroll provider is a crucial
aspect for businesses of all sizes. It involves calculating employees’ salaries
and tax deductions, liaising with HMRC, and most importantly, ensuring
employees are paid on time. However, it can be a headache, and with increased
obligations and regulations, payroll is now a specialist occupation in its own
right. Organisations must have the correct staff with relevant skillsets, as
well as the tools and software to ensure the whole process runs smoothly to
minimise financial risks and penalties.
Service
Outsourcing a payroll provider can be a
daunting prospect, this can make it easy to jump straight into it and settle on
any provider without finding out exactly what services they have to offer. Many
payroll providers nowadays offer an extended range of services that go beyond
simple payroll. It may also be the case that one business requires a specific
service or skillset that some providers do not offer. Every organisation is
different, meaning that the services they require from a provider will be
unique and depend on various factors such as company size, regularity of
payroll and the industry type. Establishing what services your business needs
and services a provider can offer is the first crucial step.
Accreditations
Accreditations that a provider has can
often offer businesses peace of mind, as they can signify that a provider is
trustworthy and has been deemed competent by a chartered body. The Payroll
Assurance Scheme (PAS) accreditation, for example, recognises payroll providers
who: have suitable processes in place for preparing and delivering legislative
changes, the organisation is dedicated to life-long learning and development,
and the organisation is dedicated to compliance and best practice in payroll.
Security
With the introduction of the General Data
Protection Regulation (GDPR) last year, data security has never been more of a
priority for businesses, not only for protecting customer data but employee
data too. Businesses must consider how payroll providers will manage the
privacy and security of employee data, as they could land themselves in a lot
of trouble in the event of a security breach. In 2014, Supermarket chain,
Morrisons, found themselves in a security breach disaster after an employee
leaked the payroll data of almost 100,000 staff. Aside from causing utmost
distress for the employees whose data was leaked, Morrisons were held liable
for the security breach.
Experience
Most businesses look for payroll providers
who have experience, particularly within their company’s sector. As with
accreditations, experience can also offer peace of mind. An experienced payroll
provider will be able to take care of all the business’ requirements and can adapt
to fit the needs of the business if required. Experience may be determined by
the number of accreditations a provider has, or quite simply by the number of
years they have been providing payroll services. Thankfully, outsourcing a
payroll provider should mean that you are choosing from a specific talent pool,
who will have years of experience behind them. At Cantium, we are proud to have
over 30 years’ experience delivering successful payroll functions to clients in
a variety of industries such as health and education to name a new
Things to Consider When Choosing a Payroll
Service for Your Small Business
If you’ve been handed the task of choosing
a payroll service provider for your company, you may be wondering where to
start and what to look for. If you get a headache thinking about the hundreds
of regulatory changes that occur every year, you’re not alone. Outsourcing your
payroll can save you time and money, not to mention a headache or two.
Experience
An experienced payroll provider will be
able to cover all of your business’ needs, including web-based and traditional
payroll processing, time and attendance solutions, employee screening and
background checks. A good payroll service will work with your business to fit
your exact needs. Additionally, check to see if the payroll provider has worked
with a business in your industry before. This will help you be confident that
the company you choose is ready for the specific challenges of your industry.
Options and Features
Ensure that the provider uses software
that’s capable of delivering all of the services you desire. Find out what
basic features the software offers as well as additional features that are
available. As a small business, you may not need as many options as a larger
business, but it’s still important to know what’s available. To streamline
payroll and employee time tracking, you need a payroll provider that can ensure
accuracies and quickly remedy discrepancies.
Trust and Security
When you hire a payroll provider, make sure
you hire someone you trust with the sensitive data involved in handling payroll
and taxes. Look for an established payroll company with a strong history,
client testimonials and a solid reputation. Do your research online before
making a commitment. Read reviews online and ask for recommendations within the
business community. It’s common for businesses to give referrals, especially if
they’ve had a great experience with their payroll providers.
Customer Service
You’ll want to communicate regularly with
your payroll provider. Look for a provider that offers strong customer service.
When you’re having a problem, you’re going to want to talk with someone who has
a real understanding of your business and its challenges, not a random sales
representative. Make sure the payroll provider you choose offers support each
day – not only on specified days, such as when your payroll is processed.
Realistically, you’re going to have questions on other days that will need
immediate attention from a customer service representative.
How to safely choose the absolute best
payroll service for you and your employees
Payroll service companies can be a big help
when it comes to calculating and filing your company’s payroll taxes, printing
checks, and being available to answer important payroll-related questions.
Industry-leading companies have streamlined processes and controls that lead to
greater efficiency and fewer errors, which can save your company time and
money.
When considering payroll service options,
it is important to choose a reputable company because ultimately your business
is responsible for paying the taxes, not your payroll company. That means you
must do your homework to ensure the payroll company is compliant with
regulatory standards and that your taxes are paid in full and on time.
Choosing a payroll company
One of the best ways to find potential
payroll service providers is to ask other business owners or payroll
professionals who they recommend and why. Hearing directly from a company’s
customers is a great way to evaluate the company’s processes and service
levels.
You can also look up reviews of companies
with the Better Business Bureau. Search for “payroll service” or a company
name, based on location, and the BBB will provide a grade and information such
as how long the company has been in business, contact information, and consumer
reviews.
Once you’re ready to start narrowing down
your choices, ask these additional questions to determine if the company will
be a good fit:
What services do you offer and what
certifications do staff members hold? It’s important to know what you’re
looking for from a payroll company and whether those needs go beyond the
basics. The company should have a CPA on staff, and other professional
certifications (like Society of Human Resource Management or American Payroll
Association) are a good sign of a quality organization.
Is the company bonded and insured? Find out
how much the company is insured for and request a certificate of insurance.
What security measures are in place to
protect my payroll data? Companies should have antivirus and antimalware
programs, firewalls, encrypted data, secure data storage with redundancy and
employee training on data security. They also should perform background checks
on all employees.
How often are internal controls audited and
do you provide the results to customers? Payroll companies should perform
audits at least annually, and they should provide a copy of their SSAE 16
report to customers if requested.
How do you remain up-to-date with
regulatory requirements? A considerable number of federal, state, and local
regulations affect your payroll processing, so it’s important to find a company
that has an airtight process for staying up to date on all of the changes from
thousands of jurisdictions.
How to Choose the Best Small Business
Payroll Services
Your small business won’t perform up to its
potential unless your team is happy. That’s why payroll services for small
businesses are so important. If your team doesn’t get paid, on time, and
conveniently, it’s going to cause issues with morale and productivity.
What to Look for in a Payroll Service
You know better than anyone exactly what
your business needs. So let’s consider the factors that play into finding the
perfect payroll services for your business
Pricing Structure and Total Cost
You probably already knew this, but the
pricing of your payroll services is crucial. The total cost of a payroll
service will depend on how many team members your business employees, what kind
of employees they are, and the features that the payroll service offers.
Most payroll services will come with the
pricing structure of a base monthly price, plus a per employee monthly price.
Many payroll services will offer tiered services that cost more based on the
additional services they offer. The additional cost will often surface in the
per-employee monthly cost, so additional features will be incrementally more
expensive with each employee you have.
Tax Capabilities and Guarantee
Payroll services exist in part to help
small business owners pay their payroll taxes correctly and efficiently. Many
small business owners purchase payroll services primarily for this reason. Some
payroll services will offer a tax guarantee, which means that they guarantee that
you won’t incur any fines, and if you do, they will reimburse you.
Tips for Finding the Best Payroll Software
Congratulations! You’ve gotten to a point
that many other small business owners have only hoped for — growth. But now
you’re required to find a more robust payroll system.
Sure, when it was you and a couple of
co-founders it was pretty easy to sort out payment. But now that you’re
growing, it’s necessary to put a process to your operations, offload some of
the tedious work you’ve been doing since the beginning, and free up your time
and resources to focus on bigger issues at hand.
One smart way to do this is to invest in a
payroll software platform that can take care of one of the most important parts
of your business for you: paying your employees on time, every time
Yet, as you know, it’s not nearly as easy
as just cutting a check. From properly withholding taxes and reporting to the
IRS to tracking PTO hours earned and much in between, there’s a lot to consider
when deciding which payroll software system is right for you
How to choose the best payroll software for
your small business
Overall, the best thing that you can do is
get a solid understanding of your business’ unique individual needs. As you
dive into the capabilities and features of the many payroll systems out there,
it can be easy to get swept up in thinking that you need fancy features that
will actually go unused or forget an important need you have until it’s too
late. So, above all else, know what you need (and what you don’t) and compare
everything to that.
