Qualities Of Good Divorce Lawyers

Signs You Should Hire an Attorney for Your Divorce

Getting divorced in Virginia can be a complicated endeavor. If you have children, assets, or any other likely points of dispute you should contact a Virginia divorce attorney for women. If you’re getting divorced in Virginia, you might be wondering whether you need to hire an attorney. While the idea of having a Virginia divorce attorney for women on your side can seem appealing, you may not know much about working with a lawyer and be unsure of what to expect.

In the age of the Internet, everyone seems to be a do-it-yourselfer. Whether the project is a home renovation or a divorce, there seems to be a book or a kit that tells you exactly how it can be done without a professional. This might sound like a good deal, but as anyone with DIY home repair experience will tell you, embarking on a project when you don’t have the knowledge or experience required can end up being a disaster.

The same is true for getting divorced in Virginia. Individuals who attempt to do their own divorces often run into unforeseen complications and end up regretting their decision. It’s important to evaluate your case and know what you’re getting into before you begin.

Signs You Should Consult an Attorney

  • You foresee a child custody dispute. Having kids changes your life forever, including the way you approach a divorce. When you have kids, the stakes are high, and unfortunately couples often end up fighting bitterly over custody. It’s true that some couples are able to coolly negotiate the terms of custody and visitation, but this is not the norm.
  • You and/or your spouse have more than a few thousand dollars in assets; especially if there’s a marital home involved. It’s wise to have an attorney who can help make sure that you’re treated fairly when it comes to division of assets.
  • You and your spouse own a business together. This scenario can be quite complicated in a divorce. An attorney will know how to navigate the confusing details, and can enlist the help of financial professionals like appraisers and consultants.
  • There was domestic violence or abuse in your relationship. The emotional dynamic that’s present when one spouse dominates and intimidates the other makes it impossible to communicate on equal ground. When getting divorced in Virginia, the abusive spouse can easily “negotiate” the other spouse into an unfair deal if no legal counsel is involved

 

Things You Should Include In Your Parenting Plan

Every family is unique therefore your parenting plan should be designed around the needs of your family. You will include a number of children you have as well as their ages, schooling needs, and so on. Some specific points you should cover include:

  • Schedule – This is one of the essential elements. You and your co-parent must include details about how you plan to meet your child’s physical needs. Some factors such as your children’s age and school schedule can impact the parenting schedule. The most important thing to keep in mind is that your children need sufficient time with you and your ex-spouse. Parents must create a schedule that allows children to spend equal time with both parents.
  • Special events – Some events such as the holidays, birthdays, school recitals, and so on, may suffer some interruptions. You need to decide where your children will spend Thanksgiving, Christmas, etc.
  • Expenses – Who will cover the costs? This is a question only you and your former spouse can answer. Some expenses you can split 50/50 while others are a bit difficult to figure out. You can always use a tool to write down child-related costs. It can help you and your co-parent provide a financially stable environment for your children, whether they’re staying with you or with your former spouse.
  • Making important decisions – It is best when both parents are actively involved in the children’s lives and in making decisions regarding their education, discipline, religious practices, health care, etc. You can talk to your co-parent about these big decisions and trace a parenting plan that includes how you will handle these major decisions.

 

Divorcing Women: Five Signs You Might Need A New Attorney

In a divorce, all negotiations and deal points go through your attorney. If he or she is a poor negotiator, an unimpressive litigator or simply fails to understand the complexities of your case, your financial future could be in jeopardy.

So, if you’re dissatisfied with your lawyer, should you hang on, or let go? Breaking up with your husband is unpleasant enough – do you have to break up with your divorce attorney, too?

Let me help you work through that decision. As I see it, here are the top five signs that you might be better served by a different divorce attorney:

Your attorney doesn’t return calls or answer your questions.

Obviously, your attorney will not pick up the phone herself every time you call, nor will she be able to respond within the hour every time you have a thought or a question. Keep in mind that divorce attorneys are often in court –especially in the mornings –and if they are in trial, they can be at the courthouse all day for a week or more, in some cases. Even so, you should not feel that your lawyer is unresponsive. Being busy is one thing, but ignoring you when you need answers is not OK.

How to avoid it: Make your expectations about communication clear from the outset. Maybe it doesn’t bother you not to talk directly, but even so, you expect emails to be answered within twenty-four hours. On the other hand, maybe you hate email and want frequent telephone updates. Whatever your preferences, state them up front. Also, please remember: Your attorney is not your therapist, and you can’t presume she’ll be able to help you cope with personal issues the way a trained counselor will. You may need to adjust your expectations, or you may decide this attorney is simply not someone you can work with.

You feel intimidated –or even bullied –by your attorney.

Let’s face it, lawyers – and particularly litigators – can be very intimidating people. They need to be! You don’t get to be a successful attorney without some ability to intimidate or outdo an opponent in court. You want your attorney to have impressive knowledge, experience and courtroom presence. This person cannot be a shrinking violet.

However, it’s difficult to work with someone who talks down to you. If you get a “don’t worry your pretty little head about that” vibe from your attorney, you’re not being taken seriously, and that is a problem. Even worse, I’ve had clients whose attorneys were almost as verbally abusive as their soon-to-be-ex-husbands.

How to avoid it: Educate yourself so you have a working knowledge of divorce basics, like the difference between separate and marital property and how assets are divided. And remember: Your attorney works for you, and not the other way around. If your lawyer doesn’t seem to recognize the nature of your relationship, it may be time to walk.

You leave the lawyer’s office feeling worse than when you came in.

No divorce attorney should promise you the moon. You likely won’t get every last thing you ask for in a divorce settlement negotiation –and that’s precisely why it’s a negotiation, not just a list of demands to be filled. On the other hand, you don’t want the sense that your attorney has no ideas or isn’t making a proper effort on your behalf. If you don’t have confidence in your lawyer’s ability to negotiate a fair settlement, it’s no wonder you will leave their office feeling distinctly hopeless.

How to avoid it: During your initial interview with prospective attorneys, don’t focus on the particulars (“I really want to keep the house,” e.g.). Instead, state your goal (“I want to come out of this divorce in the best possible financial shape”) and ask your prospective attorney to suggest a plan of action. Discuss the strengths and weaknesses of your case, and emphasize that you want to understand best and worse-case scenarios equally. Also ask what advice this attorney would be giving your husband, were it him and not you across the conference room table.

 

Essential Signs of a Good Divorce Lawyer

Divorces are not a pleasant experience. Especially if we face them alone. If there are numerous assets and liabilities to be taken care of, as well as children, things get even more complicated. That’s why it’s advisable to seek the help of a professional divorce lawyer.

But how to choose one in the ever-growing sea of divorce lawyers? One that’s going to lend us their helping hand during a tough time like going through a divorce. One that’s not going to be judgmental but helpful.

The top 7 signs of a good divorce lawyer. They’ll help you choose yours much more easily.

They Have a Website.

Having a website is essential for a couple of reasons: 1) You can get to know the lawyer by reading the information they have provided in their About section or on their blog. By the way the website is designed and how the information is presented, you can see whether the lawyer is a real professional, and whether it’s easy to work with him/her. 2) You can read client testimonials, which leads us to sign #2.

 

The Lawyer Has Good Customer Reviews.

Feedback from past clients is one of the most important things you should consider before hiring a divorce lawyer. If they have many reviews, and the majority of them is positive, that means the lawyer might be a good fit for your specific case, too.

They’re Active on Social Media.

While this is not necessarily a must, when a lawyer devotes some of their precious time to expanding their presence online, that’s definitely a good sign. And it’s another way to get to know the lawyer before even considering giving them a call.

Read the lawyer’s posts on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, sign up for their newsletters, and see how they communicate and respond to comments. This will be helpful to decide whether you’ll be a good fit.

A good listener

While you might want your lawyer to listen to your pain and sadness, that is not their job. They are not a trained therapist and using them as one is a gross misuse of time and money. What might seem immensely important to you might not have an impact on your case. With that being said, it is vital that a top divorce lawyer in The Woodlands is a good listener – they just need to listen for different information. Your attorney needs to understand your goals and needs legally.

Honest

Although it can be difficult to hear the truth, especially if it isn’t in your favor, a top divorce lawyer in The Woodlands needs to be honest. This applies to both your case’s outcome and lawyer’s fees. A good lawyer will never lie just to save you from discomfort, and they will never be dishonest about payments. Certain types of representation have flat fees, but most types of legal matters vary. It is a sign of good ethics if your lawyer gives you a range for how much their time and services will cost.

Objective

While it is important for your lawyer to be both a good listener and honest, they also shouldn’t empathize too much with your pain. A top divorce lawyer in The Woodlands is able to stay objective while seeking the truth at all times. Your relationship with your lawyer should be professional and based on trust and facts.

Respect

An objective lawyer will always ensure quality customer service. A sign of a top divorce lawyer in The Woodlands is their ability to make working with them enjoyable. You, and all other parties involved in the case, should feel respected and included throughout the entire process. This includes having a quick response time and great communication skills.

Things To Consider In Electronic Leak Detection

Water Leak Detection

Are you experiencing unexplained high water bills?

Water leaks can be difficult to find and are often in places which are either hard to get to or difficult to trace the source. Leaks can often occur behind walls or under slabs, in sewer pipes or stormwater drains, and can be the result of a blocked drain, burst pipe or faulty plumbing fixtures.

Types of water leaks

The fresh water coming into your home runs under pressure through the mains water pipe which means a burst pipe can quickly become a huge issue in your home. The waste water leaving your home through the sewer system (everything that goes down the sink, toilet, bath, shower, etc.) and the rainwater travelling through the stormwater drains is gravity fed which usually leads to slower leaks (unless it has been raining or your have a blocked drain)

With this in mind, there are generally 3 different types of water leaks:

Stormwater leak: Is this leak only occurring when it is raining? If so, it is likely a stormwater leak.

Sewer Leak: Does the leak have a bad odour? If so, it is commonly a sewer leak.

Water Supply: Does the water bubble up? If so, it is likely a water supply leak.

Finding the leak

Apart from high water expenses, there are many other signs to look out for that could indicate that your pipes have burst or you have a broken drain.

Checking the meter

Set aside a period where you won’t need water for at least two hours. Turn off all the taps throughout your property and home, and switch off any water using appliances (such as the dishwasher, washing machine and hot water system*). Take a note of the meter reading of your home’s water meter then re-read the meter after two hours. If the reading has changed you could have a leak in the mains water pipe.

 

Leak Detection

Have you noticed an unexpected rise in your water bill, but you don’t know why? Maybe your basement is flooded, or your wall is suddenly wet? You may have a leak you are not aware of, and you need experienced plumbers to determine the problem and conduct a prompt and efficient repair.

You can count on our leak detection Sydney to provide prompt and efficient plumbing service any time you need it. We will be at your place at the scheduled time to get your problem resolved. Our services are available 24 hours a day, so even if there is an emergency, you can be sure that we will be at your address as soon as possible.

Commercial Property Leak Detection

Pipelines in commercial properties may cause more problems than you can expect. Closing your company for a couple of days will cause you to lose valuable time and money. On the other side, if the leaks don’t surface immediately they can be hard to pinpoint, and you will have to pay the rising water bills.

Water and Gas Leak Detection

We have been working on different projects that included leak detection for water as well as gas pipelines. No matter if you started hearing noise from your water pipes, or you started smelling the gas, don’t hesitate to give us a call.

If left unsolved for a long time, water leaks can seriously damage your property, and there will be much more costly repairs, especially if it shows up near porous surfaces like carpets, wooden floors, drywalls, etc. Because of that, it is important to regularly check your pipelines and water utilities,

 

Leak Detection

Water Leak Testing, Leak Detection, and Pipe Leak Repairs

DFW Pipe & Plumbing & Plumbing specializes in under slab hot or cold water leak detection and location services. We are at the forefront of our industry and take pride that we can also offer our customers various types of repair options

The Signs of a Water Leak

These include the following:

Unexplained puddles of water appearing within a building or home

Wood floors that appear to be buckling

Warm spot on the floor

Standing water outside or even a soggy lawn

Unexplained hissing or a whooshing sound usually caused by water rapidly exiting at the leak location in the pressurized pipe

A steady or sudden rise in water usage and water bill increases

NOTE:

Due to pressure limitations within the pipe, the depth of the pipe and the surface above the leaking pipe, such as a concrete slab foundation or yard line, a homeowner may not hear or see the sign(s) of a water pipe or main line leak.

What Can a Homeowner Do…

To verify a possible water leak or just to make sure there isn’t one:

Ensure that all water is off in the home; such as: faucets & fixtures, dishwasher, washing machine, etc. etc.

Repair or shut off the angle stop where there are any dripping faucets and/or running toilets as this could also be a sign of a water leak

Inspect the gauge on the city water meter, movement on the gauge would indicate a water leak. Even if the city water meter gauge is not immediately moving, note the position and wait about 15 minutes and check the meter again, if it has moved, even the slightest, this could signify a very slow leak.

Water Leak Detection & Isolation

Plumbing will commence by verifying the existence of the suspected fresh water pipe leak(s) by performing a pressure test on the water system then proceed with pinpointing the location of the leak. Utilizing Electronic Line Tracing equipment ensures that a pipe is present and the path of the plumbing pipe is traced. Air is also introduced into the plumbing pipe (if needed), to aid in discovery. Then while operating Acoustic Leak Detection equipment where the sound is electronically amplified, we continue to track the amplification of the pipe leak while tracing the presence of the pipe in the slab to the location where the leak reverberates the loudest, pinpointing the location of the pipe and the under slab plumbing leak.

Once the plumbing leak has been found, suitable repair option(s) can be recommended and estimate(s) are provided for each type of repair, where the homeowner can choose what is suitable for their situation. These pipe repair methods are mentioned below.

 

Electronic Leak Detection

Many homeowners are surprised to know that sound can be the key factor when trying to find a plumbing leak. When a faucet is turned on it will create a sound as the water travels through a pipe in the plumbing (very obvious sound when a fixture is turned on upstairs).

If there is a leak in a pipe, then sound will also be created when the water pours out of the leak, and this can occur even if the leak is only the size of a pinhole. Obviously with a tiny leak the sound will not be loud like an open faucet, so for us to hear the sound of water movement we use modern technology.

As long as we can isolate a system and pressure test it, then leaks can be detected using electronics. Of course the more accurately we can pinpoint a leak, the less damage required to access the leak which saves time and money.

Electronic Leak Detection Equipment

This type of plumbing service requires expert plumbing techs with years of experience in leak detection. Streamline Plumbing uses modern equipment that will amplify the sound of moving water using microphones, digital amplifiers, and filters, which allow the leaking pipe to be identified at your home.

Electronic Line Location

Locating your sewer line is no longer a guessing game because Streamline Plumbing uses the best modern equipment to locate the elusive sewer line in a very short time. Most older homes have the sewer lines buried underground and can be difficult to find

 

LEAK DETECTION AND REPAIR

If your home has a leak in a water pipe, drain, or main line, it’s important to call a professional plumber experienced in leak detection and repair right away. Water leaks can cause serious damage to your home and furnishings, and some can even cause health hazards.

Plumbing Detect Leaks?

Visual inspection— This is what we start with to see if there are any signs that point to the location of the leak.

Sewer camera inspection— A small camera on the end of a device like a plumber’s snake is pushed through the pipes to find out where the leaks are.

Electronic leak location — A low-voltage device picks up and amplifies the sounds that leaks make. We can use electronic detection to find even small pinhole leaks in pipes and lines.

Pressure test — This can be done on the whole water system and can also be used for detecting leaks in sewer lines and gas lines.

Plumbing Repair Leaks?

Spot repair — The site of the leak is exposed for spot repairs. This could be done by opening up the foundation slab, accessing the pipe through a wall, or digging up a spot in the yard.

Re-piping — If a whole pipe or line is in bad condition, it can be replaced entirely.

Epoxy pipe coating — We only recommend pipe coating in unique situations, like patching small leaks in yards where plumbing runs under retaining walls. This method involves using an epoxy resin to coat the inside of an existing pipe to patch it.  If the pipes are not in perfect alignment or if there is a low spot in the line, epoxy pipe coating usually isn’t a good choice.

Pipe Bursting — Pipe bursting is a method of repair where a pipe sleeve is placed in the pipe then pressed against the walls of the existing pipe by a balloon. Pipe bursting is only used in select instances.  Improper sloping of a pipe and pipes that are not in alignment cannot be repaired using this technique

The most effective repair method for yard leaks is to dig down to the pipe to replace the bad section.  If a leak is repaired by a skilled plumber who uses quality materials, you’re unlikely to have a problem again. No matter where the leak is, our policy is to use the best method of repair to fix the problem for the long-term, while keeping disruption of your life to a minimum.

Want To Know How To Exterminator Bed Bugs

How to Get Rid of Silverfish and Everything Else You Need to Know

What is a Silverfish?

Silverfish are tiny insects, measuring a measly 13-25mm long. They can be creepy to come across in the middle of the night, as the three long cercei attached to their abdomen are often mistakes for stingers. Silverfish get their name from both their colour and the way they move – they have a light sliver, blue sheen and get around your house with a fishy wiggle.

How Do Silverfish Get in the House?

Despite their minuscule size, or maybe because of it, silverfish are master burglars. They’ll enter your home without breaking a sweat, invading through crawl spaces, foundation cracks, torn screens or large gaps under and around doorframes. Silverfish also stowaway in cardboard boxes and plastic containers, particularly if the box originally came from a silverfish infested area. If you’re trying to figure out how to avoid silverfish in the future, sealing up these potential entry highways will go a long way in controlling any invading populations. All it takes is a few minutes every week and a keen eye for detail, filling any cracks, gaps and holes as you go.

 

What Are Silverfish Attracted To Inside Our Homes?

Since silverfish are attracted to moisture, having a moist environment inside a home will make silverfish feel right at home. A humid environment, leaky pipes or fixtures, or any other condition that causes moisture or water build-up, will attract moisture-loving pests. But silverfish are also attracted to several other things, namely, things that they like to eat:

  • Silverfish love to eat a good book. And they don’t care if that book is something you plan to donate to Goodwill or a treasured keepsake that has been in your family for generations. Silverfish love to get inside a book and eat away at the glue that holds that book together.
  • Silverfish will also nibble on fabrics, especially if that fabric has food or drink spilled on it, or if it contains starches or adhesives. But they also enjoy chewing on cotton, linen, silk, and even leather items. If you have special clothing items stored away, such as a wedding dress, then it is not a good idea to have these destructive insects roaming around in your home.
  • If you are fond of your wallpaper, silverfish are even more fond of it. Silverfish love to eat the paste off of the back of wallpaper. This will eventually cause it to sag and peel off the walls, and put a small, or perhaps not-so-small, dent in your wallet when you need to re-paper or paint.
  • Pantry items. Silverfish love to chew through packaging, exposing food to the air. This will either allow the food to spoil or get stale or, worse, you could find yourself face to face with a silverfish floating around in your cereal bowl.
  • Old photos. Silverfish will sometimes eat old photos and, literally, deface them. If you have memories stored away in a box of old photos and you have silverfish in your home, know that those memories could be erased.

 

Common Mistakes Homeowners Make Regarding Silverfish

If you are wondering why silverfish have chosen your home, keep reading. Many homeowners don’t realize that certain conditions attract moisture-loving pests such as termites, earwigs, and silverfish.

  • Broken or obstructed gutters can cause water to collect along walls or foundations which will attract moisture pests.
  • Bushes or vegetation up close to a foundation can also cause moisture problems.
  • Leaky spigots make it nice and wet for moisture pests.
  • Holes, gaps, and cracks in foundations and walls are a sure way silverfish and other pests find their way inside.
  • Humid or moist areas in your home will make these insects feel right at home.

 

How to fight the infestation of silverfish?

Make no mistake, silverfish much prefer new homes than older. So no matter what type of property you found them, control means are the same.

The best way to fight against silverfish is to maintain moisture free places , for example clog the pipes leak, redo the window seals if necessary. In short, avoid water seepage. Remember to vacuum regularly and rigorously in corners. Also, clean the table scraps and crumbs, even in the most hidden and less accessible places, such as drawers, bottom of wardrobe, etc.

In addition to repel silverfish, as you move away from other insects such as cockroaches or ants that are attracted to the same things.

– Biological Control

It is easy to get rid of silverfish, at the same time you have a controlled environment using the above advice.

For the biological control against silverfish, you can use diatomaceous earth, a non-toxic to humans or pets. Used for its abrasive properties on insects, the insecticide bio can be sprinkled along baseboards, behind furniture and under appliances, under the sink, along the walls and on the route taken by silverfish. So that insects will scrub their bodies, they will die, but not automatically by dehydration.

– Homemade Methods

If you have found a small amount of silver fish inside your home or another building, you can try a homemade tip to capture pests. Know that this thing will not work if you are infected!

Take a glass jar covered with masking tape (masking tape) and place it in the most frequented places by insects. Silverfish will climb naturally on the pot and go refuge. Since they can not climb on smooth surfaces, they can not crawls out of the pot. Therefore, you can put in the pot some soapy water to kill them. Here you go!

 

How can I get rid of silverfish and firebrats?

Cleaning

Cleaning is the most important part of controlling silverfish and firebrats, as it is for all crawling insects.

  • Vacuum often to help remove food particles and insect egg masses.
  • Regularly clean around and behind appliances and machinery, inside cupboards, drawers, and pantries.
  • Keep countertops clean.
  • Also clean beneath sinks and other dark or humid locations.
  • Wrap or insulate pipes that have too much moisture. Repair leaky faucets and pipes. Ventilate bathrooms and dehumidify areas of excess moisture.

Traps

Silverfish and firebrats can be easily trapped in small glass containers (like baby food jars). Wrap the outside of the glass with tape and set the container upright in areas where you have seen silverfish or firebrats. The insects will climb up the taped surface, but they will be trapped in the glass container, because they cannot climb smooth surfaces.

Laying Vinyl Flooring

Things to look out for onsite when installing vinyl flooring

We have compiled a few useful tips to ensure the result ticks all the right boxes, with no costly comebacks from your client:

Daily demands and deadlines often result in it being difficult to visit sites as often as intended.  Regular site visits are imperative for the success and smooth running of your project.

Have you notified your building and flooring contractor of your visit? Have you considered their schedule and obligations?  Empathy and consideration will go a long way in achieving a mutually beneficial outcome.

Is the site ready for the vinyl installation? Is it free from other trades?  Don’t improvise! Too often flooring contractors are instructed to install the vinyl flooring when the site is far from ready, with disastrous effects.

Are the site conditions favourable for the flooring contractors? Is the lighting acceptable?  Are the timelines achievable?  Projects too often run over with the flooring contractors having to work under tough conditions and having to meet unrealistic deadlines.  This ultimately affects the quality of the installation and very often results in a costly re-do.

Identify any structural expansion joints. Structural movement will affect a vinyl installation and it is important to ensure the correct expansion joint covers are used over all the expansion joints to avoid any after-the fact comebacks.

Have saw cut joints been made? How deep are they?  When laying the screed topping, saw cut joints may have been specified to prevent cracking whilst the screed is drying.  Best practice is that saw cut joints are approx. 40mm deep and that they were done with the floor plan and design considered.

Is the screed level, smooth and contaminant, dirt and dust free? Vinyl will show imperfections in the screed and this step in the process is critical in producing a quality finish.

What thickness self-leveller was applied? Is it per your specification?  As the screed levelness is so vitally important and given the fact that realistically, there are very few contractors in the country today that can deliver a Class 1 screed, be sure to specify a self-leveller.  Specify at least a 5mm thickness even though we recommend assessing the substrate to determine what thickness of self-leveller is required to attain an average of at least 5mm.

Is the screed soft or powdered and are there any visible cracks? The screed must comply with at least 25MPa strength.  Ensure there are no hollow patches and check for any cracks which could result in delamination of the screed

What is the moisture content of the screed at 40% depth? Vinyl and a wet substrate are archenemies.  We recommend using a reputable moisture reading instrument such as a Protimeter or a Wagner meter which enables you to be able to read at depths of 40% and ensure you have no moisture issues. It is important to determine the moisture reading at this level as generally, the surface moisture evaporates fairly quickly but the moisture deeper within the screed may take longer to evaporate.  It is guaranteed that moisture will rise to the surface once you install vinyl because of the moisture pressure equalising within the screed.

Check surrounding areas for indication of excessive ground moisture ie. vlei, slopes, clay etc. Ground conditions in the area can affect the moisture seeping into the structure.

Be mindful of the temperature at the time of installation. The ambient temperature affects the adhesive curing period in the winter months.  It is common to have installation issues at 12ºC and below and it is advisable to consult your adhesive and screed manufacturer to advise on best practice for their product.

What was the ventilation like over the drying period? Poor ventilation causes adhesives to take longer to flash off, self-leveller longer to dry and causes a screed to powder.  Excess ventilation is also not ideal as it could cause the screed to dry unevenly and settle differently, causing cracks and unevenness.

Is the correct material and adhesive on site? Check colour, batch and roll numbers.  It is common to experience some colour variation in different batch numbers.  Ensure you have received stock from the same batch number and insist on sequential roll numbers. It is also very important to note the manufacturer’s recommendation on the correct adhesive to use per product, as an adhesive failure could result in the flooring manufacturer voiding their product warranty.

How were these rolls stored? Has the material been rolled out and left to relax and acclimatise?  Make sure to check the manufacturer’s recommendation as to product storage.  Sheeting requires rolls to be stored upright whereas rubber stores flat. LVTs should not be stored in boxes of more than 5 boxes high.

 

INSTALLING VINYL FLOORS – A DO IT YOURSELF GUIDE

It’s week 5 of the One Room Challenge! Yikes, did these last few weeks fly by! This week was all about installing vinyl floors. I have been wanting to replace the old carpeting in our home for a very long time, so when the day finally came to rip those out and get these beauties installed, I was beyond thrilled!

PLANNING:

Most importantly, you will want to do your research and pick the right floors. A blogger friend recommended Lifeproof Luxury Plank Flooring  (previously referred to as Allure ISOCORE, they are currently undergoing a name change) to me. The first thing I asked about was installing the underlayment. I was shocked when she told me that these floors had the underlayment built right in, completely eliminating that whole step! Honestly, I thought it was too good to be true and I questioned the company on it, and they assured me that it is indeed true. That alone makes these floors stand out, saving you time, money and labor.

PREPARING SUB FLOOR

By subfloor, I mean whatever was under your existing floors before. When we pulled up the carpets we found staples attached to the wood boards underneath. All of these must be removed prior to installing. It has to be a clean, smooth surface. This was the worst part of installing the new floors,  you can read about how to remove carpeting here

FIX SQUEAKY FLOORS

This is the time to fix those annoying squeaky floorboards. When you find a squeaky spot, simply drill a drywall screw in the subfloor next to the nail in that area. It’s easy and it works!

INSTALLING VINYL FLOORS:

My husband really liked the finish on the Lifeproof Multi-Width Walton Oak Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring so that is what we chose. (You can also check out my friend Tara’s choice of Lifeproof floors in the Seasoned Wood finish). I liked the varied wood tones of the wood and the different sized planks. When installing there are several patterns you can make with the multiplanks, so you will need to plan ahead before you begin so that you have an idea of your layout. None of the patterns are complicated to do.

 

What is Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring?

Pros and Cons of Luxury Vinyl Flooring (LVP and LVT).  And, what is Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring?  What about Engineered Vinyl Plank?

As you’ll see, vinyl has come a long way since its original introduction in the 1930’s.  There are now options that look and feel so real, many mistakenly think they are hardwood

What does LVP stand for?  What does LVT stand for?

First, LVP stands for Luxury Vinyl Plank and LVT stands for Luxury Vinyl Tile.  As the name implies, Luxury Vinyl Planks look like planks of hardwood floors; and Luxury Vinyl Tile looks like Tile (or natural stone).  They are individual pieces of vinyl (not sheet vinyl), so they look very similar to the real thing.  Most luxury vinyls are waterproof (or highly water resistant).

Now, there are multiple types/forms of Luxury Vinyl and different grades, as I’ll discuss below.  (The cheaper ones are often water resistant rather than waterproof.)  And, you are more likely to find cheaper ones and knock-offs in the big box stores, so don’t be fooled.

What is the definition of EVP?

EVP stands for Engineered Vinyl Plank.  It’s a segment of Luxury Vinyl Flooring.  Engineered Vinyl Plank (EVP) has an incredibly realistic hardwood look (and feel) and is exceptionally durable.  It’s waterproof and has a strong high density fiberboard core.

Engineered vinyl plank is much thicker than the typical glue down vinyl.  It’s usually 8 mm thick, so it’s similar to an engineered hardwood (or laminate flooring).  Like engineered flooring, it’s constructed in layers.  The top layer is vinyl, the middle is a high density core board and usually there is an attached back underlayment (e.g. cork) for more cushioning.  Like laminate, these floors are clickable so they are easy to install.

 

SELF-ADHESIVE VINYL TILES – HOW TO GUIDE

You’re already convinced of the first-class look that a tiled floor has to offer, but at the same time shy away from the disadvantages of the heavy and cold stone tiles? If you are also looking for a very simple installation option, then self-adhesive vinyl tiles are just right for you! Vinyl flooring is not only available in a slim plank format, vinyl now also passes as a handy tile. The surface of authentic tiles is reproduced completely and in detail, so that there is no difference in appearance.

In addition to the aesthetic appearance, laying is one of the key benefits of the self-adhesive vinyl tiles. These can be easily and quickly laid to the ground and do not require the help of a professional. Now, if you’re wondering how to lay this versatile vinyl floor, pay attention! We will explain how to proceed in order to achieve an optimal and appealing result. In a few steps you will finally obtain your new dream floor!

LAYING VINYL FLOOR TILES – WHAT DO YOU HAVE TO PAY ATTENTION TO?

Everyone already knows how to lay laminate tiles. The laying of tiles is difficult, but no longer a mystery. When it comes to self-adhesive vinyl tiles, things will look different! It is a practical alternative to the simple click mechanism, which definitely deserves more attention.

Vinyl tiles are not only a wonderful alternative to boring stone tiles, but you also get the self-adhesive installation method saves you a lot of time and nerves. Thanks to the practical adhesive backing, the vinyl tiles can be attached to the surface in an unusually simple way. The best part is that you do not need a professional! However, some things have to be considered in advance, so that no problems arise later. In order to guarantee that your new floor is absolutely even and beautiful

PROPER PREPARATION – THE NUTS AND BOLTS OF INSTALLATION

Before laying of self-adhesive vinyl tiles can start, some preparations must be made. First, make sure that you have all the tools you need for the installation. Since you have opted for self-adhesive vinyl tiles, you need very little here. A carpet knife, a metal ruler or similar and a measuring tape will suffice in order to lay the vinyl tiles safely.

 

RIGID FLOORING VERSUS VINYL FLOORS

All waterproof vinyl floors fall under one category called resilient flooring. Each type of resilient floor has its own unique construction, but the one thing they all have in common is P.V.C, (polyvinyl chloride). Each of these floors will have a percentage of PVC in them of vary amounts. PVC is why some refer to resilient floors as waterproof.

PVC is also known as plastic or vinyl, and it has been around for decades, but the new category of flooring, called M.L.F. (multi-layer floors) has changed the resilient flooring category forever. These floors are not like anything your mother or grandmothers had in their kitchen or home. Technological advances have made it possible to create a very durable, waterproof, and fashionable resilient floor that looks like real wood, linen, or stone

For this article, we will focus on the difference between rigid flooring (MLF) and vinyl floors (PVC) floors, because this is an area in which there has been some confusion and misinterpretations of the products. When considering any kind of PVC floor, there are six points you need to consider. 1. Health 2. Dent Resistance. 3. Dimensional Stability. 4. Installation. 5. Telegraphing and subfloor. 6. Fashion. Why is fashion last? Fashion or style is subjective, and it is the one thing both products can deliver, regardless of the construction of the resilient floors.

Construction: Vinyl floors are made up of PVC, additives for flexibility, and aggregate for density and durability. However, the PVC that is used to make the vinyl floor is essential. 100% virgin vinyl is the best choice for your health, and for the floor’s durability and stability. It means there is no recycle vinyl content in the construction of the floor, and it is Ortho Phyllite free, and free of heavy metal contaminants. This is very important to look for when buying vinyl floors. Ortho Phyllites are considered to be harmful to people and pets. This is why 100% virgin vinyl is the only kind of PVC vinyl floor you should have in your home. Better safe than sorry as the saying goes.

Dimensional Stability: Expansion and contraction is a factor in all flooring, including vinyl floors. Vinyl floors will contract and expand and must be acclimated to the environment for at least two days before installation. This may be challenging for meeting tight construction deadlines.

Reliable Provider of Moving Services

Moving has never been an easy task to many people. It’s one of those few tasks that can bring you a lot of headache. But when it’s your time to move, selecting the right company to help you move will help relieve the stress that’s associated with moves hence making it a bit easy for you. Moving companies offer you the chance not only to move in a very simple way but also offers you the chance to move without worry. Even if you are making a complex or a simple move, this company is perfect for you!

Moving companies cover a very wide are a hence you can rely on it. Regardless of where you would like to move to, be it within or outside the state, you will appreciate getting efficient services that can make your move smooth. You will get the peace of mind that you will need. You will not get worried at all about your valuables while on transit since the comprehensive insurance cover that is available will cater for any eventualities that may occur on the way. The task will be carried out by highly qualified staffs who understand the shortest ways to execute the task.

When everything is properly packed and put on the van, space will be maximized. That reduces the amount of trips required. Where you would efficiently pack a van, 2 trips could be reduced down to one. That would lower the cost of a relocation significantly.

Moving companies will help provide you with accurate solutions to your moving problems. Its a fact that every simple mistake done can be costly hence this company will ensure that you are offered the right kind of a solution that can help you effect your move from one place to another. The company can offer you the necessary help that can help you make your move easier and more convenient. You will be told of the space that your goods will occupy the right packaging material that’s necessary to ensure that your goods are well put and carried.

What occurs if items are lost or damaged? Such problems could be unavoidable in spite of how alert the moving companies would be. What would transpire when the moving van is hit by a reckless driver? Sure, there might be unexpected problems that could take place causing severe damage. Which would be the reason a number of moving services provide insurance plans. If you get extra coverage, the capability to get back any monetary losses would be possible. While that might not always restore your personal items, that could safeguard you from serious economic losses.

Now that you know the three most important decisions that need to be made before you get a moving price estimate, you just need to take time to decide on the answers. Once you do that, using estimates to help you decide what company to hire will be simple and you will be confident that you are making the right choice.

Tips To Avoid Home Renovation Mistakes

Cheap Remodeling Ideas

Renovating or remodeling your home does not have to be expensive. Whether you are trying to update and remodel a house to get it ready to sell or to make it a more comfortable place for you to live, there are plenty of ways you can fix up your house without spending a lot of money. These changes will:

  • make your house a more comfortable place to live,
  • help increase the market value,
  • make it look better for your guests who visit,
  • and let you enjoy your house to its fullest extent.

Here are some tips on how to save money as you remodel, renovate, and beautify your home.

Remodeling and Renovating on a Budget

Remodeling and renovating a home does not have to be expensive. Here are a few ways to remodel your home without breaking the bank.

  • Make changes that have a big impact.
  • Considering small things that make a big difference.
  • Do it yourself.
  • Trade and barter for labor.
  • Borrow or rent tools.
  • Shop around for the best price.
  • Consider your needs when you buy.
  • Buy second-hand goods.
  • Think creatively.

By using the tips provided, you can save a great deal of money while increasing the functionality and beauty of your home. 

Make Big-Impact Changes First

To save money, you want to consider making the changes that have the greatest impact first—the things that will get the most bang for your buck. Things like paint, flooring, lighting, and arrangement and existence of appliances and furniture. A fresh coat of paint can quickly and economically update, brighten and enhance a home.

Then, if you still have money in the budget, you can make the changes that will enhance the home in more subtle ways.

Smaller Changes That Can Have a Big Impact

In addition to thinking big, you should also think small. There are small changes you can make that make a big impact as well.

  • Changing the hardware of cabinets, for example, can change the look of the kitchen without having to replace the cabinets.
  • Painting the trim instead painting the whole house might be sufficient depending on your situation.
  • Adding a drawer organizer might keep you from needing another drawer.
  • Repairing instead of replacing some things could avoid headaches and cost less, depending on the amount of time and material it would take to repair them.
  • Changing the rug or towels in the bathroom, or a new bedspread or curtains in the bedroom can change of the look of the room without any remodeling whatsoever.

Understanding when is a home equity loan a good idea

A home equity loan is a secured loan. You offer your home up as collateral, and in exchange the bank extends you money that has to be paid back over a specific period. Since your home acts as collateral, you can usually get better terms on the loan than you would without collateral being offered. And you may save money on taxes based on your individual situation.

This means that you can get a lower interest rate on the loan than what you’d qualify to receive on a loan without collateral. Low interest means you’ll end up paying less money over the life of the loan.

For example, the total interest paid on a 3-year loan for $10,000 at 5 percent APR is $789.52, while at 6 percent APR the same loan would cost $951.90 with added interest. The monthly payments are also slightly higher at six percent versus five, because you have to pay more within three years to pay it off with interest added – the difference is about $5 on this example.

So on one hand there can be good reasons to use a home equity loan.

Increasing my mortgage – what is a further advance?

A further advance is taking on more borrowing from your current mortgage lender.

This is typically at a different rate to your main mortgage.

This route can make sense if:

  • Your lender’s further advance is competitive
  • You don’t want to remortgage or switch lenders.

You can spread your payment over a long term and your interest rate should be lower than a personal loan.

But always check the market to see if you can get a better deal before committing.

When a further advance might make sense

There are two situations when a further advance might be suitable:

  • To fund home improvements
  • To raise a deposit for a second property, perhaps as a buy-to-let investment

Can I Get A Mortgage For More Than The Value Of The Property?

The family member has had the house valued at $120,000 but has offered it to us for $70,000 to help us on to the property ladder.

The house is in need of a rewire, central heating and new windows, bathroom and kitchen.

As the house is valued at $120,000, would it be possible to take out a mortgage of $100,000 even though we are buying the house at $70,000? 

No lender will give you a $100,000 mortgage to buy a property costing $70,000. Any mortgage offer will be based on the purchase price of the property – even if this is lower than the actual value. And the most you’ll be able to borrow with a conventional mortgage would be 90% of the price which, in your case, would be $63,000. To be able to get a mortgage of $100,000 you would need the purchase price to be just over $111,111 and to be able to put down a cash deposit of $11,111.

That’s not to say you won’t be able to borrow to pay for renovation costs as most mainstream lenders are prepared to lend money for building costs but they don’t pay the money up front which wouldn’t suit you. Instead any money lent is paid after the building work is complete and the property has been revalued.

To be able to pay for building works before they are finished, you’ll need a specialist renovation mortgage such as those available through Buildstore Mortgage Services. Its Ideal Home Improvement mortgage allows you to borrow up to 95% of the cost of the property as well as up to 95% of the improvement costs. So you might be able to borrow $66,500 to buy the house and $28,500 to put towards the cost of renovating. You’ll still need to find cash for the deposit on the property and the first 5% of renovation costs.

Electrical Switches Installation And Sockets

One-Way Lighting Circuit Modified for Two-Way Switching

Here are some helpful diagrams that show how lighting operating on a one-way switch can be changed relatively easily for two-way switch operation.

Turn off the consumer unit and remove the appropriate circuit fuse / miniature circuit breaker first before working on any electrical circuit, once the cable is installed make the connections to the two-way switches as shown.

show the original switch connected with original (old colours, twin Red and earth) switch-wires and the additional two-way switch linked with cable in the new colours, which in the case of three core and earth are Brown, Black, Grey and an earth-wire which should be covered with Green and Yellow sleeving. This is because electrical cable is only available to buy in the new colours.

Whenever an electrical installation uses both colours of cable, a self-adhesive warning label should be stuck to the front of the consumer unit.

The label normally reads:  CAUTION  –  This installation has wiring colours to two versions of BS7671. Great care should be taken before undertaking extension, alteration or repair that all conductors are correctly identified. These labels can be obtained from most electrical wholesalers for a few pounds as a cash sale.

Outdoor installation hints and tips

We want you to get the most from your Hive View Outdoor. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect spot to position and install it.

Hive View Outdoor automatically starts recording if it detects motion or sound. But switch on people detection and it will only record if it picks up a person.

Here’s how to get person detection working for you:

Height: Make sure your camera is just above head height, between 2-2.7m (or 7-9 feet) from the ground.

Angle: Your camera needs to be slightly tilted down – around 30° (see image 1 below). Any more than 40° and your camera might not be able to see a person’s face, especially if they’re wearing a hat or hoodie.

Range: For person detection, the range of the camera is 12m/40 feet during the day and 4.5m/15 feet at night. If you want to monitor an area further away than 12 metres, the best thing to do is set your camera to motion detection rather than person detection.

Testing: When your camera is set up, walk past at the maximum range you need. If it doesn’t detect you, try switching motion detection on the settings screen in the app.

For porches and entrances use full motion detection.

Person detection is ideal if you want to detect people from other movements. But if your camera is tilted down and monitoring a small area like your entrance or porch, you might not need it. Instead, set your camera to motion detection to make sure it captures everything.

Keep your camera in the shade.

Hive View Outdoor is weatherproof and designed to work between -20 to 45C (-4 to 113 F). Just make sure it’s well ventilated and not positioned in direct sunlight. This avoids overheating, and your camera being triggered by a sudden change in brightness like the sun going behind a cloud.

How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Light Switch?

The cost to replace a light switch is $50 to $200. The difference depends mostly on the type – standard, double, dimmer or timer switch.

If you have a light switch that no longer works, it needs to be replaced. Unless you are unfamiliar with electrical work, it’s wise to bring in a professional. An electrician can help make wiring a light switch hassle-free. He’ll also be able to install an upgraded light switch that can make your life a little easier.

Switches with extra features like dimmers or timers can really amp up the functionality of a simple switch. While these may cost a little more than your standard light switch, they offer a few benefits that may be worth the extra price tag.

Home Electrical Upgrades and Costs

When you call an electrician into your house, you’re trusting them to know what they’re doing. Check out our tips on avoiding expensive upgrades you don’t need.

Standard Light Switch Replacement

A single light switch is the most standard “on and off” switch you have in your home. It turns on and off one item, such as a light or a fan. Over time, the crisp up-and-down click of the switch begins to wear out. When you feel this happen, it’s best to replace the switch before it completely fails to operate.

Tips For Professional Wireless Access Point Installation

Congratulations! If you’re reading this, you probably purchased a new wireless system or are thinking about it and are looking-up some of the best practices for performing your wireless access point installation. Before you begin, it’s important to know that there is more to WiFi than meets the eye, and things you may not consider, like where and how you mount the access point, matter a lot more than you think.

Wireless access point installation isn’t difficult but if you get it wrong, you will feel the pain. We’ve seen some really funky installations and have heard horror stories from clients about so called “tips” that they received from self-proclaimed wireless service experts. Our clients have told us that other providers recommended mounting access points at 45 degree angles or waiting up to 7 days for wireless signals to propagate within their office. Knowing that people have paid other service providers for such terrible advice is simply horrifying and we’re here to tell you the truth. Part 1 of our tips for installing wireless access points will focus on your network requirements, your existing network environment, as well as, the physical installation. Part 2 will focus on advanced network configuration and how to prime your wireless access points for peak performance.

Whether you’re installing access points at a large office, home, warehouse or open area like a park or boardwalk, taking the following steps will typically leave you with a usable WiFi network that will stay connected and provide that bandwidth throughput that you expect

Understand all of your network requirements

Knowing your network requirements is perhaps the most essential stage of any WiFi installation. Think about how many people, or more specifically, how many devices, will be connecting to the network and what types of activities they will be doing online. Jot your notes down or even create a spreadsheet to capture your thoughts in an organized fashion and make the rest of these steps a whole lot easier.

Choose the right equipment for your wireless network

Once you determine your requirements, it’s a lot easier to find the right access point, but the large selection can still present a challenge. There are so many options on the market that even wireless professionals find themselves overwhelmed trying to pick the best access point for their customers’ budget and requirements.

Setting up the Wemo Smart Light Switch

Installation of the Wemo Light Switch to the electrical line

It only takes a few minutes to set up your Wemo Light Switch.  If you are unable to identify which is a load wire and a line wire, or is unfamiliar or uncomfortable with electrical work, please call a professional electrician.

Electrical Installation Requirements

A Neutral wire (requires all three AC electrical connections at the wall switch)

A single pole light switch (not compatible with lights controlled by more than one switch)

IMPORTANT:  The Wemo Light Switch is not designed to work with metal faceplates because they interfere with the Wi-Fi signal.  It is recommended to use the light switch for residential and dry indoor locations only.

Shut OFF the power at the circuit breaker for the switch you are replacing.  You may need to shut OFF more than one circuit breaker/switch to make sure the switch you’re working on is powered OFF.

How To Install a Ceiling Fans Installation

New Ceiling Fan and Tips to Install your Own

It worked just fine but wasn’t entirely our style. The wood matched the color of our hardwood floors before we stained them darker. So this light wood fan just didn’t really seem to go with anything else in the house

At night I would lay in bed and stare up at it thinking, “I have to get a new fan!” I would also think, “Dang. I need to get up there and dust. I can see the dust bunnies from down here!” My least favorite place to dust…

Well, I’m so happy that I finally followed through on this task and we now have a new ceiling fan! I’m not gonna lie, I had every intention of making this a “How to Install a Ceiling Fan” post. But then once I installed it and realized how many steps there are…I decided to just offer some of my tips and tricks that I learned along the way. Plus every ceiling fan will come with a different set of instructions, so I figured a step-by-step tutorial on how my fan was installed might not be as helpful.

First, find the right sized fan for your space. The bigger your room, the bigger the fan you’ll need. Here are some general guidelines…

36″ diameter = Longest Wall in Room is < 12 ft

42″ diameter = Longest Wall in Room is between 12-15 ft

52″ diameter = Longest Wall in Room is > 15 ft

Make Time During the Day

I assumed this project would take about 1 hour from start to finish, but I definitely underestimated the time. Give yourself at least 2-3 hours of uninterrupted time to get this project done. I also advise doing this during the daytime since you will need to turn the power off in the room and you’ll need light to see what you’re doing!

Enlist a Buddy

When it comes to DIY projects like this one, I often prefer to work alone (or sometimes with Bridget). However, this is definitely a 2-person job. You may need someone to hold the old fan while you disconnect the wires, you’ll need a helper to hand you things while you’re up high on the ladder, and you’ll want a buddy to help you lift up the new heavy fan to the ceiling.

How Many Blades Should Your Ceiling Fan Have?

With summer now in full swing, ceiling fans are one of the best upgrades you can make to your home. They are far more effective than pedestal fans and operate at the fraction of the cost of air conditioners.

But when choosing a ceiling fan, it can be difficult to work out the best option for your home. There are so many different styles and configurations on offer that it can be difficult to choose. One question we are often asked is how many blades a ceiling fan should have. This is a great question, as the number of blades does affect a room, as well as efficiency of the fan, blade pitch, balance and motor.

CEILING FAN BLADES

Your ceiling fan blades impact the quality and performance of a fan, though modern ceiling fans don’t tend to have many major differences in job performance. In fact, advancements in residential ceiling fan design, low drag blade shapes, pitch, and balance ensure your ceiling fans do their best job in your home. Whether you choose 3, 4 or 5 blades, you can rest assured that your ceiling fan will perform well in your home.

Fewer Blades for Less Drag

When a fan has fewer blades, there is generally less dragon on the motor. This means it can go faster and more air more efficiently. As a result, there is more airflow and a better wind chill effect. This makes your face feel cooler. Finally, the specific shape of the blades ensures that air is being picked up and moved around your home.

Do You Need a Breeze or a Gust?

A fan with fewer blades usually turns faster with a stronger motor. This creates a greater wind chill effect. If you are looking for a gentle breeze, you might need a fan with more blades.

How to choose the best ceiling fan

What size ceiling fan?

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

Take control

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

Three or four blade ceiling fans?

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

Finish and colour

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

AC or DC ceiling fan?

Ceiling fans generally use either AC (alternating current) or DC (direct current) motors. DC models are becoming more and more popular because they are more efficient to run and use less energy than AC models. They also tend to offer a greater level of control, with up to seven speed settings available.

How to Install a Ceiling Fan

Before You Buy

To find the right size and downrod length of your new fan, measure the length, width, and ceiling height of the room you plan on placing it.

How to Install a Ceiling Fan on a Flat Ceiling

If you are replacing a ceiling fan with a similar style, installation should be simple. If you are putting in a new ceiling fan or replacing an existing light with a ceiling fan, make sure the power required to operate the fan will not overwhelm the existing wiring. Consult a contractor if you are unsure.

Turn off Electricity to Room

Turn off the electricity to the room where you are installing the ceiling fan. Confirm the power is off by flicking the light switches. Remember which switch controls the fan for testing purposes later.

Remove Blades

With a screwdriver, remove the blades of the existing fan.

Disconnect and Remove Fan

Unscrew the screws at the base of the fan where it meets the ceiling. Pull the cover down away from the wires. Remove the wire nuts and the connections between the fan and the wiring. The entire fan will come out of the ceiling so be ready to support its weight. Unscrew the brackets that support the ceiling fan.

Things To Know Before Buying a Ceiling Fan

Energy Savings

Ceiling Fans are great for improving room comfort while at the same time producing energy and cost savings. Homeowners are experiencing higher energy costs and it’s only going to get worse. There has never been a better time than now to consider the purchase of a ceiling fan(s)and to enjoy both the aesthetic as well as energy saving benefits of owning a ceiling fan. In summer ceiling fans allow you to feel cool without having to turn the air conditioning full-on therefore saving energy and money. Setting your thermostat higher with a ceiling fan running can save up to 40% on air conditioning bills. Studies show this can make a room feel up to seven degrees cooler. In winter ceiling fans should be reversed and used to push the warm air down from the ceiling to keep the heat in the lower part of the room. This is especially important in rooms with tall ceilings, resulting in energy and money savings from recirculating the warm air allowing one to set the thermostat lower.

Larger Rooms Need Bigger Fans

For maximum performance, choose the right fan to fit your room size. In a room up to 50 square feet, like a bathroom, choose a 29″ fan. Breakfast nooks and laundry rooms up to 75 Sq. ft. choose a 36″ blade span. Medium size rooms up too 100 square feet can fit fans from 36″ to 42″. Standard bedrooms and family rooms up to 400 square feet work most efficiently with fans that are 50″ or 52″. Great rooms or large areas over 400 sq. ft. require a ceiling fan with a 54″ or larger blade span. For long or large rooms, you should consider more than one fan to handle your cooling requirements. For maximum comfort, the fan should be placed as close to the center of the room as possible. Keep blade tips at least 18 inches from any wall. Ceilings Lower Than Eight Feet. Use the Ceiling Mounting Kit or go with a Snugger or Hugger model to achieve the desired seven-foot blade clearance.  For ceilings above eight feet, the fan should be hung by a downrod extension so that the fan is eight or nine feet from the floor. You will want to hang it at this level since the higher the fan is hung above eight feet, the less air circulates near the floor.

Bathroom and Outdoor Ceiling Fans

Look for a bathroom ceiling fan specifically designed and UL-listed for damp locations. Bathroom Ceiling Fans start at 29 inch blade spans since smaller rooms require less air movement and space is usually limited. Want one for the covered outdoor patio? Opt for an Outdoor Ceiling Fan that this is UL-listed for wet locations. Outdoor ceiling fans can also be used indoors. They have protective motor coverings to keep moisture from corroding the motor.

Fan Blade Pitch and Size

Fan blades determine the amount of air being circulated throughout the room. Fan blade pitch is usually between a 12-15 degree angle for optimal circulation. Fan blades must be weighted and matched as a balanced set to avoid having your fan wobble. Ceiling fans with less than a 12 degree angle will not circulate air as well and be less efficient. The greater the angle or higher the pitch of the blade the more air circulation you will have in your room.

The Motor

The motor is responsible for producing quiet operation while driving the blades for air movement. Look for high-quality motors with heavy-duty windings and sealed bearings that are permanently lubricated. Smaller, less powerful motors found on lower quality fans may produce higher operating temperatures, lower air circulation and noisier operation. Motors are designed to work flawlessly for long periods of time and should have a long lasting life

Budgeting For Party Planner

EVENT MANAGEMENT

An event can be described as a public assembly for the purpose of celebration, education, marketing or reunion. Events can be classified on the basis of their size, type and context. There are three main categories which events go under. These events are private, corporate and charity which are explained below.

PRIVATE

Private events are used for individuals who can book venues such as

  • Wedding
  • Wedding receptions
  • Birthday parties
  • Festival gatherings

The private events industry is not diverse due to events being aimed at wedding receptions suggests that private event rooms are booked for celebrations mainly wedding events this is due to the hosts wanting privacy for their event and can afford a private venue unlike other organisations such as:

  • Business’
  • Schools
  • Manufacturers

Private events are used for individuals who want certain guests to arrive at the venue. Private events will have a guest list to ensure the venue is not open to the public.

CORPORATE

Corporate events are used for a business to promote their companies brand and products such as

  • Ensuring team building exercises
  • Business dinners
  • Conferences
  • Networking events
  • Seminars 
  • Product launches
  • Meetings

CHARITY/FUNDRAISING

Charity events are used for individuals to raise money for a charity of their choice by events such a

  • Society balls
  • Sports events
  • Charitable auctions

some charity events may ask for sponsors for an individual partaking in an event to raise money for charity these events range from

  • Sponsored runs
  • Sponsored cycling
  • Sponsored skydiving
  • Sponsored walks

Event Manager Job Description

We are searching for an enthusiastic Event Manager with a “can-do” attitude to assist our organization in hosting events that enhance our organization’s image, improve client loyalty, and enhance our brand-to-client experience. The Event Manager will be tasked with researching and securing venues, planning and managing our events’ calendar, negotiating quotes and agreements with vendors, assisting with event marketing, monitoring timeframes and budgets, networking, and delivering on event brief objectives. Your creativity, organizational skills, and vision will assist our organization in amplifying brand visibility, enhancing client and employee relations, and improve our organization’s growth through events that effectively communicate business strategy and brand personality.

The ideal candidate for this role should demonstrate exceptional organizational abilities, superb interpersonal skills, multi-tasking skills, and excellent time-management. The Event Manager should reinforce client-to-business relations, improve the organization’s image, and effectively deliver on event objectives.

Secret Tips for Successful Event Planning

What are you going to do? Your big event is approaching, even faster than you anticipated. There’s no time! Argh! You could pull your hair out, but that might ruin the pictures. Another option is to turn into an event planning monster, believe me, there are such creatures.

However, becoming a monster should always be the last resort. To prevent these unseemly transformations, there are methods and tools for event planning that you can use to have a more manageable and pleasant wedding, fundraiser, product launch or whatever your event might be.

Think like a project manager, and whether you’re an event planning pro or a novice planning your first event, you’ll learn from these tips.

Know Your Budget

If you haven’t defined the amount of money you’re going to spend on an event, then the event will define your costs for you. This is not something you want. Maybe you’re made of money or have a cousin who’s a counterfeiter. But most of us are working with limited funds. We need to get the most for our buck. Start by using a spreadsheet, or simply a piece of paper, and add line items for every single detail that is going to cost money. Some of those fees are going to be paid out, so make sure to mark down any payment deadlines. Also, don’t forget to leave a bit of wiggle room for the possibility of going over you’re planned budget.

Start with the Dream, Then Get Real

It’s easier to edit than to add, so the best thing you can do is cast a wide net when you begin planning for your event. Draft what your ideal event would look like, if there were no restrictions, and get a clear picture of what that would look like.

After you have your dream plan, go back to that draft with your red pencil and define what you’d settle for. What pieces are essential, which are not? What you’ve done is created a range in which you can realistically attain. That way, your expectations are grounded and there’s less of a chance that you or someone is going to go ballistic.

Use Event Planning Software

You have a spreadsheet for your budget, and you’ve set realistic goals and objectives for the event. Now if there was only a way you could collect the budget and plan the event on a single platform that allows you to manage, track and report on event progress. Well, there’s an event planning app for that.

Software tools can help you manage the budget and track whether you’re going over set limits. But, with project planning software, you can do much more. For instance, you can create a task list and then track those tasks within the time limits you set. These tasks can be for you or other people. With online software, everyone is always on the same page and can work collaboratively if they’re not in the same room.

Tips For Improving Your Event Management Skills

When it comes to event management, very few rules are set in stone. Because every event is different, each one requires a unique approach. To be a great event manager, then, you need to be as flexible as you are organized. This flexibility is what lets you adapt, learn, and change to make each event better.

Don’t just manage an event. Instead, make all of your events legendary with these 10 tips for better event management:

1. Set clear objectives

If you’re coordinating with an event planner, she might send a list of objectives your way. If not, work with your client to come up with concrete goals for the event. Make these goals as specific as possible. How many cars do you want the parking staff to move each hour? How many questions are you hoping to fit into one question and answer session? Use numbers wherever possible.

2. Start planning now

The sooner you can confirm the details of an event, the better. Start making calls as much as a year in advance so that you can lock down your venue and take advantage of vendors’ early-bird specials. While it’s important to make flexible agreements in this early period (you don’t, after all, know how many participants to expect yet), reaching out to venues and vendors early on saves you time, money, and headache down the road.

3. Negotiate with vendors

Every event is different. Vendors understand this, which is why many offer custom services with flexible pricing. Instead of asking vendors for a quote, figure out how much you’re willing to pay, and then offer the vendor between 5-10% less. This way, even if the vendor negotiates up, you’ll stay on budget and, in many cases, save money.

4. Mobilize your networks

Event management is all about networking. Stay in close contact with the venues and vendors you love to work with. When you need them, they’ll be there for you. Keep former colleagues and volunteers close too. Build effective staff and volunteer teams quickly and painlessly by mobilizing your extensive social network.

To celebrate the everyday heroes of the event industry, here are the top  5 qualities of successful event managers:

1. They have people skills. The number one quality shared by successful event managers? People skills. You need to be comfortable connecting with high-level executives, government officials, vendors, co-workers, sponsor reps, customers, supervisors, suppliers, staff, and event attendees. To successfully work with this wide range of people, you’ll need to be able to nimbly resolve conflicts, be a confident but pleasant negotiator, and maintain your sense of humor.

Remember to try and have fun with the work you do, and the people you work with, and they’ll want to work with you again. You can’t do it all by yourself, so building relationships is key.

2. They’re flexible. Event managers must double as janitors and firemen. Cleaning up messes and putting out fires — quickly, quietly, and efficiently — is part of the job. Stay calm, get it done, then get back to running the show.

3. They’re good listeners. The ability to understand what key stakeholders want to from your event is critical. These folks may not be in the event industry, so might not speak the lingo or know what’s realistic. You have to be able to discern their needs and make sure all parties share the same expectations. Pay attention to what’s said — and what’s not said — in key conversations. Tapping into these spoken (and unspoken) needs throughout your planning process will help you stay one step ahead.

4. They’re organized. To successfully run any event, you need to be able to juggle about 50 things at once. This multi-tasking prowess is required for both smooth planning and flawless execution of an event. The best planners have foolproof systems, step-by-step checklists, and handy tech tools. Working in events requires the ability to focus on the big picture while keeping track of all the little details. To avoid burnout, get comfortable delegating some of your more time-consuming tasks. And if things don’t go according to plan, don’t be afraid to switch to plan “B.”

5. They’re passionate. With all the stress of the job, you have to really love what you do. Genuine passion helps you overcome bumps in the road and stay cool when all seems lost. It also leads to bursts of creativity and the inspiration to create something great instead of just trying to get through the day. Things like time management can be learned, but you can’t teach passion, and you’ll need it in order to succeed. Being an event manager can, at times, be a thankless job; it needs to be about more than just a paycheck for you.

Wasps Sting Symptoms And Treatments To Soothe Pain

Pest control – wasps and bees

Wasps are not always considered pests. They are good for gardens and keeping other garden pests under control. But, they can nest in the house and be a nuisance and a danger

What to look for

Like bees, wasps are generally yellow and black in colour, but with a brighter shade of yellow. Bees tend to be a shade between yellow and orange. Wasps are generally thinner and longer than bees, reaching two centimetres in length. They have smooth, shiny bodies whereas bees have a furry texture. Wasps do not swarm.

The most common places for wasp nests in buildings are lofts and wall cavities. If you see wasps coming out of a specific point on a building or in a garden, this is a good sign that there is a nest. Wasp activity is seasonal. They begin building nests around spring time, reaching maturity in late summer. Activity dies out in winter. 

Before you book

Depending on the time of year, location of the nest and other factors, we may not be able to provide treatment

Before booking, please consider the following:

How much of a problem is the nest causing? Could you leave it alone? Wasps are good for your garden.

In late spring and early summer you can treat wasp nests using insecticide. You can buy this from most garden centres and hardware stores.

Before contacting us you must make sure that the nest is on your property.

Before booking an appointment you must be able to identify where the wasps are entering your property. You can do this by looking.

Why Choose Able Group Wasp Control?

Your Professional Wasp Nest Removal Service

Wasps are a seasonal pest, actively infesting homes in the warmer months of the year. Wasps can be aggressive or agitated when their nests are threatened. It is important that any attempt to remove the nest is carried out by a professional wasp removal expert. A nest can contain thousands of wasps, particularly in the height of summer. No matter how severe your wasp infestation may be, our expert pest control technicians can help.

The colony of wasps will contain one queen. The main aim of the treatment is to ensure the poison reaches the queen and kills it. This in turn should destroy the entire nest. As wasps do not have fur coats like bees do, they are easier to kill. The treatment will stick to the wasp and transfer deep into the nest killing both the queen and the nest.

Swarms

If you spot a high volume of wasps in your garden or around your home, chances are there is a wasp nest nearby. The earlier the nest is treated, the easier it will be to deal with. Multiple wasps leaving and re-entering the same area normally spells trouble. The time of year will determine whether you are contending with their irritable state or not.

Areas

When this insect finds itself indoors, they prefer to nest in sheltered locations that offer easy access to the outdoors. So it’s not surprising to find wasp nests in lofts, garages and cavity wall spaces. You can even find a wasp nest in the eaves of your home. If their nest is outside, they will likely find an old rodent burrow, hollow tree or bush to nest in. Nests are formed of chewed wood and can grow surprisingly large

Sounds

Occasionally you will only be able to identify the wasps by sound. This is usually when the wasp nest is located in places that are hard to spot such as in your roof. In such instances they will generate a loud buzzing sound that is easily recognisable. The buzzing will not be that of an individual wasp either so will be easy to identify.

Pest Control Company

Bugs and pests can be an everyday occurrence, but there can be times when they’re presence is a little overwhelming, especially if they’re inside of the property. Although many of us take steps to ensure creepy crawlies, rodents and wasps are kept at bay, there will be times when it’s just too much for us to contend with.

As such, we need to find a company that can offer professional pest control in Chester. Although there’s nothing wrong in finding a pest control company in Chester that is affordable, we need to ensure that we’re not sacrificing the quality of the service to receive a lower price.

The concept of pest control may seem straightforward, but different pests call for different methods, and it’s not something that should be attempted by an amateur. Not only could it make the problem worse, but it could antagonise the pests, making them more destructive. Using the right tools and solutions in the first instance will ensure that a permanent solution is put in place, rather than you having to make a series of appointments to get to the bottom of the issue.

Wasp, Bee, Rodent and Bedbugs Removal

Some pests can be more intrusive than others, but it stands to reason that we’d rather have a solution in place sooner rather than later. Whereas some pest control companies may only be able to work with certain types of intruders, Eliminate can contend with all forms of different pests in a safe and professional manner

Eliminate understands that every pest control is urgent, which is why it will schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Some infestations may need immediate attention, but a professional will be able to advise of this once you have explained the problem to them.

Pest Control Advice – Wasps

Habitat and biology

Wasps are social insects living in colonies inside nests that they build from wood pulp. The most common locations for these nests in buildings are roof spaces, airbricks and w all cavities. Outside nests are often built in garden sheds, holes in trees, hedges and soil banks.

The building of each nest starts in the spring when the fertilised queen wasps emerge from hibernation and search for suitable sites to rear new colonies. This is usually around Easter time but can vary enormously depending on the weather and temperature. The number of queens emerging from a single property can vary from the odd 1 or 2 to what looks like a small swarm. Although it may appear that the queens are all together they are in fact working independently of each other in seeking out a nesting site. These individuals can be dealt with by purchasing an aerosol spray and applying it with regard to the manufacturer’s instructions. There is nothing that we (or any private company) can do at this stage.

When the queen has found a suitable site she begins building a nest about the size of a golf ball in which she lays between 10 and 20 eggs. Most of these will fail to result in an active nest. Initially the young queen feeds the larvae that emerge, but once they reach adulthood (‘worker wasps’) they take over the enlarging of the nest and the feeding of all subsequent larvae that hatch. This is usually from about late May to the end of June and it is from this point that we can consider treating it.

The queen continues to lay eggs throughout the summer until early autumn, by which time the nest can contain 3,000 to 5,000 individuals (although most are smaller) and can be up to 30 cm or more across. By this time most people will be aware of the presence of a nest by the continual wasp activity around the entrance point.

During the later part of the summer the nest produces fertile males and new young queens who emerge and mate. The males die and the now fertilised queens fly away to find somewhere to hibernate for the winter. This can be in lofts, sheds, garages, overflow pipes etc.

Wasps Control

If you notice that the number of wasps you inspected is increasing, there is a chance that there might be a nest around or in your property. To eliminate the risk of getting stung, you need to inspect your home and inspect your business building and treat the infestation to a control and removal service and get a protection system on an urgent basis.

Key Facts:

They are found in every continent around the world, except in polar regions.

The sting is poisonous and can result in swelling. In some cases, it is possible for a person to die due to a sting if they are allergic.

The stinger is smooth as compared to a bee, that is why they can repeatedly sting, unlike honeybees.

They emit a pheromone into the air when they die as a signal to warn its fellow mates.

They can sleep and hibernate for many months while hanging from their teeth.

They are smaller in size as compared to hornets.

Only a female can sting and do it repeatedly.

European Wasp:

The size of a worker varies between 12-17 mm.

European wasps are aggressive stinger.

They have two pairs of clear wings, and the first pair of wings are larger in size.

The queen can survive over the winter; however, the nest, including the male and females, die during the winter.

Yellow Jackets (Social Wasp):

They can eat other insects as well as human food.

They can repeatedly sting when provoked.

Worker is 15 mm long whereas queens are 19 mm long.

They have 2 pairs of wings and have alternating black and yellow bands.

Common Wasp:

They have 2 black antennae and fly around with their legs close to their body.

Their size varies from 12 mm to 16 mm.

They have 2 pairs of wings, and their first pair is larger than the second pair.

They are known to be aggressive insects

Native Paper Wasp:

There are 35 different paper species in Australia, including Melbourne.

Their size varies between 10-22 mm.

They have a slender body with a very narrow waist.

They have a small head, but their eyes and antennas are of medium size.