Local Moving Guide For A Smooth Move

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Tips For Hiring Quality Movers

With millions of moves every year in the United States, it’s a minor miracle that most of them go smoothly, with no issues whatsoever. Hiring quality moves is a must, of course.

Moving inventory

A reputable moving company will take inventory of all your belongings and determine the bulk and weight of your move either in person or through a virtual survey. The estimator should be thorough and check all of your storage places such as cupboards, drawers, garages and bookcases. A large component of the mover’s price is based on the weight of your stuff and the space your goods take up in the truck. Be sure you understand this estimate and that it is as accurate as possible.

Get a thorough walk-through

An estimator who performs a quick walk-through without noting what you plan to move is going to be off the mark. A good estimator will ask questions about what you plan to take from your current house to your next home. So, be sure you are prepared to tell the estimator which items you don’t want on the truck—the items you plan to give away, donate to a charity, sell in a yard sale, or leave behind for the new owners.

Don’t pay a large deposit

Reputable movers won’t demand cash or a large deposit before moving. You should only pay upon delivery. If you pay in advance, you have no control over when you will see your belongings again. When you do pay, use a credit card to help protect you from possible fraudulent activity.

Avoid moving companies with a name switch

Some companies avoid being assessed by the Better Business Bureau by doing business under a variety of names. Be sure the company has a local address and information about licensing and insurance. Their employees should answer the phone with the full name of the business.Find out if there are any other names the company “does business as,” as well as their state and federal license numbers. Search online to see if there are complaints about the company

How to Choose a Reliable Moving Company

Finding a reputable moving company requires doing some research, but the payoff can be worthwhile.

Hire a local mover. If you hire a moving company based in your area, you’ll avoid being tricked into doing business with an unscrupulous mover operating solely over the internet, says Scott Michael, president and CEO of the American Moving & Storage Association, a trade group that represents companies that handle local, interstate, and international moves

Get estimates. Get at least three written in-home estimates, Hutt advises. Be suspicious if an estimate is unusually low or if the moving company provides an estimate over the phone or online without sending a representative to scope out the job. It may be a sign of scam

Verify credentials. For moves between states, a mover must have a number issued by the Department of Transportation. It serves as a license that identifies commercial vehicles transporting passengers or hauling cargo in interstate commerce. If the mover you’re considering is licensed, it must provide the DOT number on its website and in its advertising, says Kurt Larson, a spokesman for the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, a division of the Department of Transportation that oversees truck and bus safety. The mover also must have a carrier number from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

You can check the DOT and motor carrier numbers, one way to ensure that the company is legitimate.

Picking a Moving Company: How Do Your Choices Stack Up?

Selecting a moving company can be overwhelming. You probably have a few friends with recommendations, and there are plenty of movers’ ads online and offline — but which company’s the best fit?

Licensed means safe

The first and most important point to investigate is the company’s legal status. Movers may claim to be licensed and insured, but unless you can confirm that, don’t take it at face value.

In-state moves

Many states have rules and regulations to monitor household goods carriers at a local level. Usually the authorities responsible for overseeing intrastate movers are the state Department of Transportation or the Public Utilities Commission. Contact the relevant authority.

Out-of-state moves

Check with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), the agency that grants permits to all moving companies engaged in the interstate transportation of household goods.

Overseas moves

Ensure that the ocean transportation intermediary involved in the moving process is certified by the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC), the federal agency responsible for regulating U.S. international ocean transportation to protect U.S. consumers. Don’t even consider moving to another country without researching whether your chosen company has been approved by the FMC.

How to Choose Movers that Are Right for You

Movers that are licensed. When you’re moving from one state to another, your movers must be licensed with the federal government, which means they’ll be assigned a Department of Transportation number. You can check ProtectYourMove.gov to ensure your movers meet the necessary requirements. For local moves, every state has different licensing requirements. If you’re moving within your state, call your state moving association to check your movers’ licenses and other requirements.

Movers that give you a written, in-home estimate. In-home estimates are the best way for movers to give you a reliable quote, since they can see how much stuff you have and whether there will be any obstacles to your move (e.g., stairs, a hard-to-access location). Whenever you get an estimate from a moving company, make sure it is in writing. You cannot rely on verbal estimates

Movers that have good reviews. A moving company may post testimonials on its site, and that’s a great starting place for your investigation. But you’ll want to do your own research. Check with the Better Business Bureau and other moving review websites to verify that the movers you’re considering have great practices overall.

Experience. Think about how much experience you want your movers to have. Sure, the new company might offer lower rates, but you have to consider what you might be giving up in professionalism and quality should you go with less experienced movers.

Services. Do you just need the basic services – like packing, loading/unloading and transporting – or do you require a whole range of services? Other services can include everything from storage to car/boat transit, assembly/disassembly, shuttle services, crating and more

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT MOVING COMPANY

Moving this year? Hiring a moving company starts with knowing what to look for and which questions to ask. After all, you’re trusting people you don’t know with your most precious items during one of the most stressful experiences of your life! It’s important to do your research so you’re sure to hire the best moving company for your needs.

START EARLY

Moving day is stressful enough without scrambling to find a moving company at the eleventh hour. Start your research early so you have plenty of time to compare companies and estimates. As a rule of thumb, if a moving company is available at the last minute, it’s probably for a reason.

READ REVIEWS — LOTS OF THEM!

Online reviews and word-of-mouth are the best place to start when choosing a moving company. Ask friends and colleagues for recommendations, and read reviews on trusted sites like Yelp, Google and the Better Business Bureau. Reviews provide a reliable, unbiased look at a company’s level of service in action.

FIND EXPERTS IN WHATEVER YOU NEED TO MOVE

You don’t want just anyone transporting your precious baby grand. If you have speciality items — like pianos, gym equipment, or pool tables — find a moving company with experts who know how to handle them properly. Usually companies will list this information on their website, but reviews are also a great place to look.

GET ESTIMATES

Once you’ve compiled your shortlist of moving companies, it’s time to get estimates. As a golden rule, if a moving company doesn’t give you an on-site estimate, you shouldn’t hire them! If possible, get at least three in-person estimates before committing. This way, you’ll have sufficient options to consider when making your final choice.

What Makes A Good Mold Inspection

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Factors to Consider When Looking for a Mold Inspection Company

Exposure to mold can have serious health effects such as a cold with accompanying flu symptoms. It is vital to have mold inspection conducted in your home to eliminate such issues that might emanate from mold. The choice of a mold inspection company is not easy. Therefore, you have to consider several factors before opting for a mold inspection company. This article explains these different elements.

Certification

You should do extensive research before settling on a certain mold inspection company. Most companies have websites and the “about us” page reveals whether they are industry certified or not. The mold inspection field might appear to be hugely unregulated. However, check whether they have certification from the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration (IICRC).

Testimonials and Experience

Testimonials and experience are essential factors to consider. They help ensure that you do not settle for mold inspector who is actually a rookie. The testimonials could be by word of mouth or you can find them in the inspectors or company’s website. This therefore implies that you have to enquire about the company and any possible recommendations. It ensures that you settle for a company that will exceed your expectations.

Insurance

It is vital to hire an inspector who has insurance that duly covers them. This protects and guards you in case there might be any possible losses. Insurance is therefore very important, especially pertaining to liability if any accident happens in your house. This also applies when there is sub-contracting. Such contractors also have to be well trained and insured as well. They ought to bear documents or credentials clearly depicting the same.

Price and Pre Testing

The price of mold inspection varies from company to company. It is good and prudent for you to get quotations and compare them before choosing and settling for one. Some companies insist on pre-testing mold but this is not important, as it escalates the prices. Professionals who insist on doing these tests only want your money and to ultimately drain your bank. It is also not ideal for you to choose quotations that are exceedingly low hence; this should be a major red flag. Only quacks charge very low prices, as they are not properly trained but just merely experimental.

How to Choose a Certified Mold Inspector

Experience

How many mold inspections has the company performed? An experienced mold inspector most likely will have performed several hundred mold inspections per year. That way you know the mold inspector has seen a wide variety of scenarios. Ask your mold inspector how many verifiable mold inspections have been performed in the Los Angeles area.

Credentials

There a several types of certifications and as many certifying organizations. The mold inspection company should carry Workers’ Compensation insurance and professional liability insurance. They should hold membership in good standing with at least one nationally recognized trade association for mold professionals. The certifying organization should also be nationally recognized with an online registry of certified professionals. In both cases, you can verify the mold inspection company’s trade association membership and the mold inspector’s certification. Not all certifications are created equal! Make sure the mold inspector’s certification is based on verifiable work experience and the certification is issued by an accredited educational organization.

Inspection Equipment

Every mold inspector should have the basics: a moisture meter, an air sampling pump, and a respirator. Several other tools should be at the inspector’s disposal including sampling media (swabs, air cassettes), flash light, gloves, knee pads, and a mirror. There are various types of each of these tools. Ideally, the mold inspector will have the latest technology available. There are other tools that are high tech such as a thermal imaging camera which is a tool designed to detect temperature variations typically associated with moisture.

References

With the abundance of review sites on the internet, it should be pretty easy to get an idea about the mold inspection company’s reputation. Any company that has been around for several years is bound to have a couple unsatisfied customers. But what is even more alarming are no reviews at all. It makes you wonder if the company has been around long enough (or is qualified enough) to be considered for the job at hand. With some due diligence on your part, you should be able to see a trend in the volume of reviews: a majority of good reviews means you probably have a reputable mold inspection company under consideration. Also, make sure the company actually responds to reviews. If a company ignores any review, it could mean a company lacks the appreciation for every customer served. A popular subscription based consumer review site is Angie’s List. Reviews are provided by real people that pay to be on the site. There is a mutual understanding among members that the reviews are only useful if they are truthful. A paid subscription-based consumer site means members have a vested interest in providing genuine reports because s/he will be depending on other reviews when making his/her hiring decision. Other popular review sites are Better Business Bureau, Google Maps and Yelp

Mold “Test Only”

In my opinion, mold inspection companies should only perform mold testing and not perform mold repair. It is considered a conflict of interest to do both because the test and repair company may exaggerate the problem in order to overcharge for a solution. Mold inspection costs for “test only” companies are paid at the time of the inspection

Picking The Right Mold Inspection Service

It takes a lot of things in order to live healthily, and one of the most important aspects is to have a healthy living environment. We know it’s pretty obvious, but that’s why proper cleaning and an adherence to hygiene really matters, even more so than having a place that looks good. In order to achieve that, you need to clean regularly and have preventative maintenance done, such as regular mold inspections.

That’s easy enough, right? You either jump online or grab your Yellow Pages, book an appointment with the first mold inspector you find, and you’ll be assured of getting excellent service and wonderful results, all at a reasonable price. Well…it doesn’t quite work like that. Just like any other type of business, there are companies you’d be delighted to work with, and then there are the less desirable ones. Read on for a few tips to help you choose the right mold inspector.

First, remember that not everyone has the same kinds of problems with mold. Some people are strictly taking precautions by having an inspection done. Others have had recurring issues, and they’re praying the problem is gone. The wise choice is to pick a company that handles numerous issues, inspections to let you know what your situation looks like, and eradication to get rid of mold once and for all.

What a company does is important, but how it does it is just as important. Specifically, the company you consider ought to have access to the latest equipment. They should have testing equipment for moisture testing, air quality testing, HVAC reports, leak testing, and microbiological testing. Once the inspection is concluded, you should expect to receive a report laying out how serious the mold situation is and what can be done to resolve it.

Next, it’s important to find a company that’s been in business for a while and has a proven track record. If an inspector has been on the job for a long period of time, they likely have gained the experience to recognize a number of different issues and have a number of solutions. You’ll also want to ask if the company is licensed and if their employees hold certifications for providing mold inspection services.

Tips to Get an Effective Mold Inspection

The mold inspection and remediation process is a balancing act of ensuring occupant health and safety and preserving the property value for the owner.

The mold inspection company you choose should offer a value proposition that stands apart from others. The credentials should include a certification, experience, a fine work product and a competitive price. In addition, the company should be able to provide multiple references of past customers who were satisfied with their experience.

To minimize the chance for conflict of interest, the mold inspection company should strictly be in the business of inspecting, testing and consulting. That way, the company has no vested interested in benefiting from the repair that may be necessary through mold remediation.

The inspection report should be a two-part document – lab results and an inspection report. Once mold testing is conducted, samples should be sent to an independent laboratory for analysis. The results of the lab analysis will be interpreted by the inspection company, which will then provide a comprehensive analysis of the property condition, laboratory findings and recommendations

The report should be easy to understand when you read it. Some inspectors simply provide lab results without any additional documentation. An inspector also serves as a consultant and should be able to produce a document to reflect his/her interpretation of the inspection process

Tips of Choosing a Mold Inspection Company

There are many health problems that are associated with mold exposure. Hiring a mold inspection company immediately you notice a problem is very important. The main reason you are hiring this company is so that they can be able to identify the main source of the problem you have. The mold inspector will also provide you with advice on what you need to do about your problem. Choosing the right mold inspection company is imperative if you want your work to be done in the best way. Here, I will talk about the clues that you can use to help you choose the best mold inspection company.

As you choose the mold inspection company, you need to consider the training that they have. Hiring the best company is very important even though the industry is not regulated. You need to look out for institutions that can assist you to choose the best mold inspection company. If the mold inspector is trained, it means that they understand about building envelop. They also have important certification in mold inspection and infrared technology. If the mold inspection company has certification in water damage restoration, you can hire them for the services that you need

Prior settling on the mold inspection company, you must ensure that you know of the procedures that they use to offer their services. If the inspector is well trained and experienced, they will have a checklist that they follow when providing these services. It is important to hire an open company because they have the ability to explain to you the procedures that they use step by step on how they identify the areas where mold in coming from in your property. If the company has the right protocol, they will have the capacity of identifying the problem you have within a short amount of time

The equipment and tools that mold inspection companies use can play a major role in the company that you decide to settle on. In the mold inspection industry, there are numerous tools and equipment that companies can use for inspection and detection of mold. If the mold inspection company has invested in the right technology, then you can be sure that the services that they offer you will be of high quality. The upside of having this equipment is that it can help the company detect your mold problems as well as confirm these findings. If you want to get high quality services, you need to hire a company that has trained its employees to use mold inspection equipment; this training will also help these people to offer you efficient services

A Few Natural Fast Acting Remedies For Mosquitoes Bites

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Get Rid of Mosquitoes and Mosquito Control

Mosquitoes are frequently in the news because they are both a nuisance and a health threat. It is important to reduce mosquito populations around your home and other living and recreational areas.

Mosquitoes thrive in tropical weather, but are found throughout the USA. Many species (not all) rest during the day in dense vegetation such as tall grass, weeds, and shrubs. Any successful mosquito control program should target these areas.

Mosquito Reproduction:

Female mosquitoes ingest blood to lay eggs. They use the protein found in blood. They feed on humans by following the scent of our exhaled carbon dioxide, tracking our body heat, and detecting the complex blend of scents found on our skin. An average female mosquito will be 2.5x her unfed weight.

Remove Standing Water

Mosquitoes can breed in any standing water, but they are particularly drawn to standing water with lots of organic debris. Nasty water is a common place to find mosquito larvae. During the summer months, you can verify a water source’s mosquito content by dipping a cup into the stagnant water. Look for mosquito larvae in the cup. The larvae are about the size of a fingernail and they squiggle around.

To eliminate mosquito breeding sites, begin with obvious areas and empty the water from them. These sites include old tires, buckets, wheel barrows, and clogged gutters. Flower pots and the saucers that they sit on are often over-looked so check these. In-ground pool drains remove water from the pool decking, and they are often full of water. The pool drains aren’t easily emptied, but they can be treated with Mosquito Bits or Altosid Pro-G Granules. Mosquito bits can also be placed anywhere that frequently collects water.

Should You Spray Your Yard for Mosquitoes and Ticks?

If you’re considering spraying your yard to ward off mosquitoes and ticks, you’ll have no shortage of companies to choose from. As the list of mosquito- and tick-borne diseases grows (thanks in part to the 2016 Zika outbreak), the insect-control business is booming.

“There’s been a proliferation of companies that are doing mosquito control,” says Stanton Cope, former president of the American Mosquito Control Association. “But some of them are much more professional than others.” Some companies may spray without proper licensing, experience, or equipment.

Spraying is serious business, Cope says. The Environmental Protection Agency has approved a number of pesticides for residential spraying, saying they are generally safe when used properly. But the agency also warns that any chemical spray poses some risks. And those risks are made far worse if the person doing the spraying isn’t properly trained.

nexperienced sprayers may lead you to waste your money by spraying chemicals the wrong way or by using products that don’t work. And they can expose you to unnecessary risk. Misapplied chemicals can result in more toxins reaching your children and pets, and they can harm natural foliage and nonthreatening insects (some of which have protective effects). They can also breed insecticide resistance, which will make any existing insect problems much worse.

Start With Simple Steps

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the EPA say that for reducing insect populations around your home, integrated pest management (IPM) is the best first step.

MOSQUITO CONTROL

The onset of the rainy season in South Africa does a whole lot more than make the surrounding foliage grow. They also bring out a whole host of creatures many of us would rather not deal with – most infuriating of all, mosquitoes. During this time, organised mosquito control is necessary not only because they make us itch, but also to prevent the spread of disease in humans and animals.

TARGETED MOSQUITO CONTROL METHODS

We use professional, effective mosquito treatment that work fast and are safe for a number of internal and external environments

QUICK AND EFFICIENT SERVICE

We work quickly to ensure that your mosquito problem is dealt with swiftly, minimising downtime for your family or business.

PROFESSIONALLY TRAINED TECHNICIANS

All our technicians are expertly skilled and registered with the Department of Agriculture.

HOW TO AVOID MOSQUITO BITES:

Avoid stagnant or standing pools of water where mosquitoes breed

Mosquito Control

Mosquito Control

Unfortunately, if you live in Florida, you’re probably more familiar than you’d ever want to be with mosquitoes. There are pests, and then there are mosquitoes. Mosquitoes not only intrude on a good time and are a nuisance, but they can also dangerous. Many of the diseases mosquitoes can spread, like malaria or yellow fever, don’t show up in the United States, but others can, like Zika Virus. In other words, mosquitoes are a bigger threat than most people realize — a threat that should be dealt with sooner rather than later.

Why Mosquito Control Is Important

We all hate mosquitos for the obvious reasons — they are irritating, leave itchy bites, and can make spending time outside significantly less enjoyable. All these reasons on their own should be enough to justify mosquito control services. But in case you are looking for even more reasons for mosquito control in Florida, did you know that mosquitoes can carry and transmit dangerous, sometimes lethal, diseases to humans?

Top Rated Mosquito Control

Our Approach To Home Mosquito Control

Finding a top-rated mosquito spray service for your backyard is made easy by the team of mosquito control experts at American Pest. Our licensed professionals have been providing Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia residents with quality pest control services for nearly a century

Mosquito Treatments for Special Events

We recognize that peak mosquito season begins and ends during graduation and wedding season. That’s why we offer a one-time mosquito spray service for your outdoor special event. Regardless of your number of party guests, we can accommodate small yards with intimate gatherings to lavish parties with expansive lawns. If you are hosting a ceremony, cookout, or planning a backyard party, let our certified mosquito control experts spray the area 24-48 hours beforehand to decrease the number of mosquitoes invading your summer gathering. 

A THOROUGH INSPECTION

A professional mosquito control technician will perform a thorough inspection of your yard to identify where mosquitoes live and breed.

MOSQUITO SPRAY TREATMENT

Your technician will use a specialized misting system that applies a repellent mosquito treatment around your yard, paying special attention to bushes, shrubs, and areas that retain moisture. Your mosquito service will be performed monthly during peak periods of activity (typically April to September).

TREATMENT OF MOSQUITO BREEDING AREAS

We’ll stop mosquitoes before they even start by treating breeding areas with a biological mosquito larvacide.  This will stop developing mosquitoes in their tracks!

Plastic Surgery Board Certification Explained

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How to Choose the Best Plastic Surgeon

THE WORD “PLASTIC” doesn’t just refer to a man-made, petroleum-based substance that’s currently choking the world’s oceans. It also means that something is moldable or flexible, and when this term is used in relation to surgery, it conjures up images of Hollywood stars with perfectly chiseled noses, bountiful breasts and taut tummies. But there’s much more to plastic surgery than just face-lifts and breast implants; the medical specialty has its origins in reconstructing body parts after major trauma or surgery to remove disease or deformity

The American Board of Plastic Surgery reports that “plastic surgery deals with the repair, reconstruction, or replacement of physical defects of form or function involving the skin, musculoskeletal system, craniomaxillofacial [head, mouth, skull and face] structures, hand, extremities, breast and trunk, external genitalia or cosmetic enhancement of these areas of the body.” Whether you’re trying to enhance your bust line for aesthetic reasons or reconstruct a breast after a mastectomy to treat breast cancer, the plastic surgeon is the doctor to help you achieve your goal.

There’s nothing inherently illegal about practicing outside your area of specialty, although Maman notes he would likely be held liable for malpractice if the procedure went wrong. “As a board-certified plastic surgeon, I can decide that I’m going to remove a brain tumor if I want. There’s no state law that prohibits you from doing that. Once you have a medical degree, you can do whatever you want. The problem is, I don’t know how to do that and the patient’s not going to do well.”

Therefore, just like you would carefully research and select a board-certified neurosurgeon to remove a brain tumor, Maman says it’s important to find a board-certified plastic surgeon to handle any and all plastic surgery procedures you’re considering. “The key is choosing a plastic surgeon who’s board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, period,” he says. The ABPS reports there are about 6,800 board-certified plastic surgeons currently practicing in the United States. The ABPS is the only specialty board for plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures that’s recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties, the gold-standard certifying body for specialty boards.

Beyond board certification, Maman says, “a big indicator [of a surgeon’s skill] is gallery photos. The surgeon should be able to show the patient photos of similar patients who’ve undergone that procedure,” and he says it’s important that the photos the surgeon shows you are of patients who are similar to you. “Having 100 photos of a tummy tuck is great, but they have to show you a patient who looks like you. Not every patient is the same. One might be 32 years old, one might be 58 years old. One might be thin, one might be fat. The key is showing [examples of] patients who look like you and fit your age and demographic, skin color, etc.”

How to Choose a Cosmetic Surgeon

If you are considering cosmetic or plastic surgery to your body (breasts and face are the most common locations), don’t overlook the importance of choosing the right surgeon, as not all are equally trained or competent. Consider the following tips when researching for potential plastic surgeons.

Ask a friend or trusted doctor for a referral. Use the advantages of word-of-mouth to find a plastic surgeon. Friends who have undergone a cosmetic surgery, operating room nurses, or surgical technicians who have worked with a cosmetic surgeons can help point you in the right direction

Make sure the surgeon is board certified. Ensure that your doctor has actually graduated from an accredited medical school and ask for board certification information. By law, any medical doctor can perform virtually any medical procedure, so make sure they are a trained specialist in the surgery you need.

Ask about their experience. Once you’ve established they are a board certified surgeon in the specialty you require (such as breast augmentation or face lift), ask about their experience. Find out how many times they’ve done your type of surgery and when the most recent time was. Some doctor who focuses on breast implants, may occasionally do face lifts to augment their income, for example — avoid this situation

Check the doctor’s record. Thanks to the internet, it’s easier now than ever to do research online from your home, so use this to your advantage by checking your doctor’s record. The status of your doctor’s license can be found through their state licensing boards. Pick surgeons with clean records and no history of serious discipline or malpractice.

Tips for Choosing a Plastic Surgeon

A Personal Decision

Having reconstructive or cosmetic plastic surgery is a big decision. It can change your life by correcting a defect or improving the way you look and feel about yourself. Choosing a plastic surgeon is one of the most important decisions you can make. How do you find the best plastic surgeon who is right for you? Here are some important factors to keep in mind.

Get Referrals

Start by asking your primary care doctor for a referral list of plastic surgeons. You can also ask family, friends and other healthcare providers for recommendations. Take the time to research the doctors’ credentials and experience on Healthgrades.com. As you narrow down your list, call each plastic surgeon’s office to see if he or she is accepting new patients. If so, ask for a consult appointment to meet and interview the plastic surgeon.

Research the Plastic Surgeon’s Credentials

Board certification is one of the most important factors to consider when you are choosing a plastic surgeon. It tells you that the doctor has the necessary training, skills and experience to perform plastic surgery. Also confirm that the plastic surgeon has no history of malpractice claims or disciplinary actions. You can find the plastic surgeon’s medical school, training hospital, certifications, and malpractice and disciplinary history on Healthgrades.com and state websites.

Consider the Plastic Surgeon’s Experience

Experience matters when you’re considering plastic surgery. The more experience a plastic surgeon has with a condition or procedure, the better your results are likely to be. Such experience allows the plastic surgeon to prevent surgical complications and promptly recognize them if they occur. Ask how many patients with your specific condition the plastic surgeon has treated. If you need a specific procedure, ask how many of the procedures the doctor has performed and find out about complication rates—complications the doctor has encountered as well as your own risk of complications.

Consider Gender

It’s important to feel comfortable with your plastic surgeon’s gender because you will need to openly discuss personal information. When it comes to plastic surgery, your own gender is also an important consideration. Cosmetic plastic surgery has traditionally focused on female patients. However, men also seek the benefits of plastic surgery and their needs are often different. Ask the plastic surgeon about his or her recent training and experience specifically related to your condition and your gender.

tips for picking a good plastic surgeon

Make sure the surgeon is board-certified

This one, say experts, is a no-brainer. For plastic surgery, you want a doctor who’s certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. It’s simple: The American Board of Medical Specialties’ Web site will tell you if a doctor is board-certified in plastic surgery.

Check the surgeon’s record

Trobaugh says she never would have gone to Adams if she’d known he had two malpractice judgments against him. She could have found that out easily by going to the Medical Board of California’s Web site.

Ask if the surgeon has hospital privileges

Even if you’re having a plastic surgery procedure at an outpatient clinic, it’s worth asking where the doctor has hospital privileges, because hospitals do background checks, says Dr. Rod Rohrich, past president of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. “If they don’t have hospital privileges, that’s a huge red flag,” he says.

Come armed with questions for the doctor

One crucial question for your potential surgeon is how often he or she does the procedure you’re interested in. “If I’m coming to you for a facelift, you’d better do it almost weekly,” says Rohrich, who’s also chairman of the department of plastic surgery at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center.

Be wary of multiple procedures

Trobaugh says when she went to Adams, he suggested three procedures. “When you bundle procedures, the risk goes up,” says Stuzin, the plastic surgeon

How to Choose the Best Plastic Surgeon

The decision to finally start the journey towards achieving the look you desire can be equal parts exciting and nerve-racking. Cosmetic surgery is a major decision that has the potential to be very rewarding, but your results largely depend on the ability of your plastic surgeon to interpret what you envision for the outcome and make it a reality.

Board certified, or bust. A superior level of training and experience is often communicated through accreditation by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). When your plastic surgeon is board certified, you can find comfort in knowing he or she has been vetted and tested by one of the most respected medical specialty boards in the nation.

Check out their credentials. Along with their accreditation status, research your prospective surgeon’s professional memberships, hospital affiliations, and recognitions. Active participation in national organizations like the ABPS, as well as employment with local hospitals, can convey the ability to stay up-to-date with best practices in plastic surgery

Look at before-and-after photos of similar patients who have undergone your procedure of interest. Try to assess whether the results achieved align with your expectations and hopes for the outcome.

Trust your gut! Meet with a potential plastic surgeon to make sure you feel comfortable and confident in their care. This can be the most important aspect of the research process.

What Does A Car Accident Lawyer Do

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How to Choose the Right Car Accident Lawyer

Pursuing a claim for personal injuries caused by a car accident can be both complicated and costly. And to make matters worse, some lawyers may not be equipped to pursue all claims and compensation available to you.

What To Look For in a Car Accident Attorney

Hiring a personal injury attorney can be a complicated decision. Luckily, there are a few simple questions you can ask to get a better idea of your attorney’s qualifications

Experience

Choosing the right car accident lawyer often comes down to experience. The best motor vehicle accident lawyers have been practicing personal injury law for many years and have fought for their clients both in and out of court

Resources

A successful car accident attorney is one with the resources to do the job right. For the best chance of receiving a fair settlement, only consider law firms that are well-established, well-staffed, and well-financed. Investigating a car accident requires using forensic tools, conducting safety analyses, and developing a network of medical and economic experts to calculate your damages. Without the vast resources that this requires, your case will be under-prepared and you could lose out on certain compensation.

Secrets to Finding a Great Personal Injury Lawyer

Choose a Lawyer Who Does Personal Injury Law Exclusively

Personal injury law is intricate and involves many specialized rules and practices. Attorney’s who handle divorces, wills, trusts or bankruptcies can be Jack of all trades but Masters of none. They do not try cases and insurance companies lowball accordingly. You risk the quality of your representation if you choose an attorney that does not specialize in personal injury law.

Select an Attorney Who Has a History of Taking Cases to Trial  if Necessary

Many if not most attorneys who advertise they handle personal injury cases have never seen the inside of a courtroom. They take your case, try to pressure you to settle for a pittance.  Insurance companies are very aggressive. If they know your attorney doesn’t go to trial, that he’s afraid of the courtroom, they will take advantage of this and make ridiculous offers or make little or no effort to settle your case. They know your attorney is shooting blanks and that he will fold his hand and pressure you to fold too when he sees the insurer isn’t going to budge. If your attorney isn’t willing to put the case before a jury, the insurer knows it..and it will hurt you.

Select a Personal Injury Lawyer with a Proven History of High Verdicts and Settlements

If you have a large case with serious injuries, it’s important to know that your attorney can deliver a large verdict or settlement. Ask your attorney how many million-dollar verdicts or settlements he has had. Is he a member of the Million Dollar Advocates? The Million Dollar Advocates is a renowned organization of attorneys who have settled or tried cases worth a million dollars or more. Not every case is worth a million dollars, but if you have that kind of a case, make sure you have an attorney who can deliver the goods.

Hire an Attorney Who’s an Active Member of State and National Trial Lawyer Groups

Serious personal injury attorneys collaborate with and learn from other excellent personal injury attorneys. In today’s very difficult environment where insurers are not hesitant to use dirty tricks and underhanded methods to make injured people look bad, it’s critical to be up to date and to know what the insurers are up to.

Find an Attorney Who Has Sufficient Resources to Take Your Case Seriously

When you hire an attorney, look around. Does he or she look like they are successful? Does their office look like they are doing well? Does the attorney have a line of credit or personal assets necessary to properly prepare your case? Serious personal injury cases are expensive to prepare. Many experts are necessary to properly prepare a case. Often many doctors must have their depositions taken and must later appear in Court. Other experts such as economists, biomechanics, accident reconstructionists, vocational rehabilitation specialists and life care planners must be hired. The expense in a single case can often exceed $100,000+ if properly prepared. Make sure your attorney has enough money to play with the big boys.

How to Find the Right Car Accident Attorney for You

You already know this is an important decision. In fact, finding the right lawyer from a good shortlist of car accident attorneys may be one of the most important decisions of your entire car accident case.

You should do careful research and select an attorney who has years of proven experience handling personal injury cases such as yours. We want to offer you some helpful tips to find that perfect attorney to get you compensated for your car accident injuries.

Before you look up car accident attorneys, know what you’re looking for

Before you even start doing searches it will pay off to have a good idea of the qualities and terms you are looking for in a car accident attorney. This may differ a little according to your case, your personality, your area of the country, even.

These questions will give you a framework for a list you can check off:

Evaluate the complete team of staff, not just the partners or people who make up the public face of the law firm. Keep in mind as you research and interact with the firm that it may not be the same person you speak with initially who will be your primary contact.

Where to find experienced car accident attorneys

Ok, now you should have an idea of the sorts of things you’ll be keeping in mind as you look at various law firms and attorneys.

How Do I Choose the Right Auto Accident Lawyer?

Choosing the right auto accident lawyer isn’t rocket science. All it takes is a little bit of patience, research and a general idea of what to be on the lookout for. After a car accident, you’re not in the best frame of mind for gathering evidence and representing yourself to the insurance companies. It’s best to find an auto accident attorney who puts you first, and let them do the hard work while you recover. We make it easy here at Kuzyk Law, as we have been in this business since 1971 representing our clients’ best interests in car accident cases of all kinds.

Understand the Fee Arrangement

Before hiring a lawyer, it’s imperative that you truly understand the fee arrangement and what is expected of you in terms of payment. Many lawyers, like those at Kuzyk Law, don’t bill you unless or until your case is won or settled. But you should still ask what percentage will go the lawyer. The industry standard is between one-third and 40 percent of the total award. Ask for a breakdown of fees, hourly rates, etc. Be aware this is just an estimate. Car accident lawsuits can stretch for months or even years. Don’t sign anything until you’ve asked about the attorney fees and understand them completely.

Ask Yourself Questions Afterwards

You may do all the research possible on a particular attorney but you won’t really know who’s best for you until you meet with them. After discussing the case with your Lancaster auto accident lawyer

Make up a List of Questions

Not sure what to ask in your initial meeting? Have a list of questions ready for when you meet. You’re understandably in a vulnerable place right now and it’s common to forget basic questions you may want to ask

Of course, no matter how good your lawyer is, these questions can’t always be answered with any degree of certainty. However, a good Lancaster auto accident lawyer should be able to give you an educated guess based on their knowledge, experience, skill and nature of similar cases

TIPS TO SELECT THE BEST CAR ACCIDENT ATTORNEY FOR YOUR CASE

Questions to Ask Potential Candidates Before Choosing Your Car Accident Representation

Although it may sound surprising coming from a lawyer, not every car accident requires hiring an attorney. In fact, in some cases, it may not be worth your time or money. A simple fender-bender, for example, can most likely be handled without too much resistance from the insurance company.

Asking Questions Will Help Secure the Right Representation

Ideally, to secure a strong injury claim, you should contact an attorney within a day or two of your accident. This way, you can get started on the case right away while it is fresh in your mind. Furthermore, you must remember that you need time to focus on your recovery while still gathering evidence of liability, police reports, contact information from any witnesses, and photos of property damage and any visible injuries. However, once you secure your attorney, he can gather the necessary evidence while working to ensure that all of your current and future financial, emotional, and physical losses are being thoughtfully considered. That leaves you with only one task: getting better from your ordeal.

Time isn’t your friend in these situations, so knowing what to look for in an attorney can be crucial. Of course you will want to make sure you hire someone who has specific expertise representing clients who have suffered injuries similar to yours. Of course you need to find someone you feel you can trust. But there are many other specific details you need to know when considering whom to hire.

To set up a free consultation with the highly experienced and dependable attorney Steve Lee, simply fill out the contact form on this page. We will get back to you as soon as possible with an appointment time to speak with him directly and have all of your questions and concerns addressed

Trends In Pediatric Critical Care Nursing

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Why Choose a Pediatric Dentist?

The difference between a general dentist who treats children and a pediatric dentist is additional education and specialized training to provide the best clinical care and a positive experience. Pediatric dentists are specifically trained to diagnose, treat, and manage conditions particular to children.

All dentists receive similar dental training and must earn an undergraduate degree and attend dental school where they receive either a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or a Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD). Pediatric Dentists then complete another two to three years of additional intensive pediatric dental training specifically focused on treating the unique dental issues of children and teens, including those who are disabled or have special needs.

The pediatric dentists of Great Beginnings chose to focus their dental careers on treating children and adolescents. The office is designed with a child’s comfort in mind with a fun and relaxing atmosphere. Specialized pediatric dental instruments are used to provide optimal care for developing teeth. Staff members are experienced in working with children and know how to make kids feel comfortable and safe. The Great Beginnings Team lives the mission of working together to create smiles for a lifetime.

Reasons to Choose a Specialist

Family dentists practice general dentistry for people of all ages, but a pediatric dentist spends all day every day treating only kids. Here are a few reasons to take your child to a specialist:

  1. We’re kid experts! Pediatric dentists get an extra two to three years of special training to treat children of all shapes and sizes from itty bitty infants to growing teens. Read about the specialized training details from the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.
  2. Did you know our practices look more like playgrounds and amusement centers? Colorful murals decorate our walls. Toys and video games fill our play areas. It’s where all the cool kids hang out!
  3. Whether your child is super shy or super chatty, a specialist knows how handle every personality that walks through the doors.
  4. Worried about your tike’s pacifier use, thumb sucking or bottle feeding? They can show you how to tame your child’s bad habits.
  5. Baby teeth get cavities, too. A pediatric dentist is trained to work on tiny teeth.

When to see the dentist

As a rule of thumb it is time for a dental visit when your baby’s first tooth becomes visible or they reach 12 months old – whichever comes first. If you notice anything you think is out of the ordinary before this time it’s better to be safe than sorry, so book an appointment straight away. The earlier your child visits the dentist the better. Prevention is better than cure and early dental visits will help protect your child from tooth decay

THE 5 DON’TS OF DENTAL VISITS

1. Don’t tell your child to be brave (they already are)

2. Don’t bribe your child

3. Don’t tell your child that it won’t hurt (or it will)

4. Don’t use the dentist as a deterrent or punishment

5. Don’t be anxious yourself

Evaluating the Office

Once you’ve gotten the name of a dentist you want to try, meeting her in person and seeing the office can help you determine if she is the right fit for your child. Consider these questions from the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.

Before the visit, ask the office:

  • Does the dentist have special training or interest in treating children?
  • Is the dentist a member of the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry?
  • Is the dental office set up for children? For example, does it offer toys, books, games, or child-sized furniture?
  • How does the dental office manage emergencies? (Many practices have an answering service available during off hours.)
  • Is the office conveniently located near your home or your child’s school?
  • Does the practice accept your dental benefit plan?

After the visit, ask yourself:

  • Was your child seen promptly?
  • Were you asked for a complete medical and dental history for your child?
  • Was the dentist gentle but thorough when examining your child’s mouth?
  • Did the dentist or staff talk to your child, encouraging her involvement in dental health?
  • Were you informed about your child’s tooth development, the causes and prevention of dental disease, and appropriate dental care at home?
  • Were your questions treated with concern and respect?
  • Was the visit positive for your child?

Pediatric Dentist Skills and Qualifications

Pediatric patients present some unique challenges. Fondness for children is a must, not to mention extensive patience and a warm, personable bedside manner. After completing a bachelor’s degree and dental school, specialty training is required to practice pediatric dentistry.The American Board of Pediatric Dentistry also offers additional (and optional) certification. Once fully trained, pediatric dentists have the following skills:

  • Interpersonal skills – patience, adaptability, and compassion are critical to explaining complex medical topics toyoung patients and listening to their concerns
  • Strong ethics -pediatric dentists must adhere to government regulations, such as those stipulated under HIPAA and OSHA, as well as any policies set forth by their practice
  • Manual dexterity– smaller patients and smaller tools mean pediatric dentists need excellent hand-eye coordination to safely treat their patients
  • Teaching – pediatric dentists instruct children and their parents on the best practices of oral hygiene, in addition to mentoring students and associates
  • Critical thinking – good judgment and perception are necessary to accurately evaluate patients and devise treatment plans
  • Administering medicine – anesthetics and sedatives must be used properly and with great care to ensure patient safety and comfort

The Advantages Of Shingles Roof

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How to Choose a Roof Color: Seven Things to Consider

Getting a new roof is so exciting! It’s a chance to completely revamp the look of your home. But it’s also a scary decision because you will live with your choice for a long time. Where do you start?  Here are seven things to consider before making that final decision.

The climate you in which you live. The color of your shingles can affect the temperature of your attic by 20 to 40 degrees! This can make a big difference in the heating or cooling cost of your home. Light shingles deflect sunlight and help keep temperatures down in hotter climates, while dark shingles absorb heat and help homes stay warm in colder climates. Dark shingles also help snow and ice on your roof melt faster.

Your architectural style and colors of your home should be kept in mind. Dark colors make a home look smaller and light colors make a home look larger.

Whether or not to “make a statement” and pick an unusual color combination with your home or if you want to be more traditional

Neighborhood considerations such as homeowner’s association and subdivision rules and covenants. It’s also nice if your roof doesn’t exactly match or clash with your nearby neighbor’s roof

Choosing the Best Roofing Shingles for Your Home

A comprehensive guide to roofing shingle types.

Most Homeowners know how important it is to protect their home with a great roofing system. Choosing the correct roofing shingles to protect it however, can be a tricky and overwhelming decision. While your roofing contractor can certainly help and advise with this choice, its always best if the homeowner takes the time to fully understand their options and make an informed decision. In the text below, we’ve laid out all the information you need to decide on the best shingle type for your home.

Asphalt shingles are the most commonly used residential roofing material today, and over the years there have been many improvements to further increase both their aesthetics and reliability.

Traditional Three-Tab Roofing Shingles

Three-tab is the most economical type of asphalt shingle. This shingle type can be recognized by the tabbed “cut-outs” along the bottom edge of the shingle that cause them to look like three separate shingles once installed. The idea with the three tabbed approach is to create a nicely textured roof while maintaining ease of installation and manufacturing, thus lowering cost. This means they generally have the lowest price tag of all the roofing shingle types. The downside to three-tab shingles is that they are more susceptible to being damaged by wind, heavy precipitation, or hail. They also tend to not look as good as their architectural cousins.

Architectural Roofing Shingles

Architectural shingles are an improvement on the three-tabbed approach. Good architectural shingles, like GAF Timberline HD architectural shingles, cost a little more but have a higher wind and hail rating than three-tab shingles. Architectural shingles also have additional layers of asphalt laminated together, and are installed in single solid pieces (without cut-outs).

Designer Roofing Shingles

The most high-end option when it comes to Asphalt shingles, are designer shingles. Designer shingles are technically still architectural shingles, but they have the added appeal of mimicking traditional roofing types such as slate, tile, or wood shake. While designer shingles may look like these other roofing types, they are still much more affordable and typically more reliable.

How to Pick Asphalt Shingles for Your Home

But of all these material types, the overwhelmingly most popular, versatile, simple to install and cost-effective choice is the asphalt shingle roof.

First used in 1901, asphalt shingles have been part of the American home landscape for over a century. These shingles are durable for the price, affordable and come in many different textures and colors. The most common styles of asphalt shingles are the “strip” shingle or the “laminated” shingle

Although fairly durable, asphalt shingles are still subject to damage and your roof should be checked after major hail or wind storms. Additionally, you should always make sure that your roof is properly ventilated.

According to a 2007 study by IWCS, about 11 million tons of asphalt shingle waste is generated annually in the US. Shingle waste comes mostly from new or replacement roof installations which can cost several thousands of dollars according to HomeAdvisor.

Types of Asphalt Shingle Construction

The most common type of asphalt shingle homeowners will have installed are either fiberglass shingles or organic mat-based shingles. The shingle will have either an asphalt saturated organic substrate made from cellulose fibers like wood or paper, or it can have a fiberglass based substrate or mat.

Design a look you’ll love.

This is going to be a beautiful decision. Shopping for new shingles is the perfect opportunity to increase the curb appeal of your entire home. Your roof can make up more than half of your home’s exterior so it should complement your home’s style and exterior colour scheme.

Should you choose a different colour? Consider the look of your home’s exterior. A new shingle colour could bring your look together. Or even inspire a new palette.

Have you seen the granules? Owens Corning shingles get their rich colour from a combination of coloured granules. Using the colours of these granules, you can coordinate all of your home’s exterior elements – the paint, siding, brick or stone. Click here to see the impact that TruDefinition® Duration® Series Shingles Designer Colours™ Collection can make on your home’s aesthetics and perceived value.

Do you need more dimension? If your home’s exterior is monochromatic, think about adding shingles that appear thicker and give your roof a rich, textured look. For homes that already have a detailed exterior, you could choose softer, more muted shingles. Owens Corning Roofing offers a variety of roofing shingles that carry a unique combination of these characteristics

Shingle colour isn’t the only factor that affects the look of your house. The shingle style you choose also impacts curb appeal.

If you prefer a more consistent, smooth look to your roof, your best bet is the Supreme™ three-tab shingles. Berkshire® Collection, Oakridge® and TruDefinition® Duration® Series dimensional shingles add more visual interest to your roof by giving it a three-dimensional appearance.

Proper planning and knowing what you want can head off a lot of potential problems and delays – whether you need a new roof or just some repairs. Let’s look at common considerations in new roof projects and significant roof repair.

DETERMINING THE RIGHT SHINGLE COLOR AND MATERIALS FOR YOUR ROOF

What type, style, and color of roof that you choose might be one of the biggest decisions that you’ll make about your property.

Choosing the right type of roofing material, the right shingle color, and everything else about your roof is a big decision that will affect not only the appearance of your home, but maintenance costs and the overall value of the property.

You want the color and material of your roof to blend in seamlessly with your natural surroundings, your neighborhood, and most importantly the architecture of your home.

Your home’s roof should enhance the curb appeal and value of your property as well as express your aesthetic and personality.

The roof makes up about 40% of the visible exterior of your home depending on the style of the house, so choosing the right shingle colors and roofing materials means that when you make your choice you are also deciding on the type of first impression you want to make with your home, and even bigger decisions like the resale value of the property.

Steps On How To Prep Stucco Repairs For Paint

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Tips for Choosing the Right Stucco Contractor

Whether you wish for a facelift of your home or there are too many signs of weathering that need your attention, home improvement is imperative for homeowners. Whether they choose to do it for increasing their property value or they do it to ensure structural and functional integrity, there is almost no way around it.

Many people take up home improvement as a DIY project and do things like cleaning floors, grouting tiles, and even painting. However, some of the home improvement projects are more challenging than others such as stucco repair. Stucco is an exterior finish material made up of Portland cement, sand, lime, and water and is often used because of its durability and appeal. Stucco can be applied to other surfaces like metal and wood to enhance their appearance.

Seek Referrals

If you have a stucco exterior, there are chances that other homes in your community also have stucco façade. Begin your research by asking for referrals from neighbors, friends, and family. A contractor that has worked at your friends’ or neighbors’ house is tried and tested. You can get an honest firsthand review from people in your circle, and you can also check the quality of its work. So, seek referrals from your community and circle

License and Insurance

If you hire a contractor without a license and insurance, there is sadly nothing to cover you in unfortunate events.

Referrals and Portfolio

Stucco repair or applying fresh stucco is a tricky job that can go wrong in many ways. Therefore, it is better to inspect past projects of the contractors closely. You must ask contractors for referrals and portfolio and must cross-check them. If some of these projects are in your area, you should go and inspect their quality.

Stucco Contractors : How to Choose the Right One

Whether you need specific stucco repair or your entire house exterior needs a facelift, you’ll probably find yourself looking to hire a stucco contractor. Being that this is an issue most people only encounter once or twice in a lifetime, if at all, you most likely don’t have the phone number for one handy. You may ask a friend or coworker if they know anyone, but you shouldn’t hire someone on a whim. As with most things, you want to evaluate your options to ensure you’re hiring the right stucco contractor for your needs.

RESEARCH MORE THAN ONE STUCCO CONTRACTOR

Don’t just do a google search and pick the first name that comes up, or the one closest to you. While these may, in fact, be the ones you ultimately choose, it’s wise to compare and contrast several different contractors.

In addition, be sure that you’re looking specifically for a stucco contractor, and not a general home improvement contractor. While the latter may be able to get the job done, a contractor specializing specifically in stucco will be more qualified to handle the project. They’ll have a wider knowledge base in this specific area, especially concerning products or possible problems.

CONTACT FOR MORE INFORMATION

Once you’ve narrowed down your options to two or three contractors, it’s not a bad idea to reach out them for further information. Most contracting companies encourage potential customers to contact them if the customers are interested in hiring for a job, or have questions. You can inquire more about specific materials used, whether or not they sub-contract the work, if they get their supplies direct from the manufacturer, etc.

GET AN ESTIMATE, AND THEN SOME

You want to get an estimate from your stucco contractor, but consider going a little further than that. Ask when they can start the work, and how long they think it will take. Your stucco contractor probably won’t be able to begin work right away, but they should be organized enough to give you an idea of the start date.

Invest Some Time When Choosing a Stucco Contractor

When a home improvement project requires a stucco contractor, most homeowners will likely not have the names and phone numbers of any installers stored in their computer, smartphone, or address book.  Since the need for a stucco contractor may be a once-in-a-lifetime circumstance, the first reaction of a homeowner might be to ask a friend or a family member if they or someone they know could recommend a reputable company.

While this could provide a viable lead, it will in all likelihood merely scratch the surface of what will be needed to make a comfortable and informed decision on the contractor who will ultimately be awarded the project.  In other words, it would be prudent to invest some time in doing research, or homework, before settling on a stucco contractor – and while there are indeed several stucco companies to choose from in Toronto and the GTA, homeowner diligence upfront will pay dividends in the long run from the standpoint of return on investment.

Ready to Answer All of Your Questions

A reputable stucco company, such as Canadian Stucco, should basically anticipate that potential customers will want and need to know this type of information and be willing to respond openly and honestly.

How to Repair Stucco

At first glance, the seamless coat of stucco on the East Boston house looked as bulletproof as a sidewalk, the perfect foil against the harsh wet weather of this coastal city. Yet beneath its lush cloak of ivy, the cement shell was a mess of cracks and buckling, signs that water had gotten in and damaged the underlying wood lath

When properly installed, stucco (a cement- or lime-based plaster) is about as carefree and long-lived a cladding as anyone could wish—100 years is not uncommon. But when big cracks or blisters appear, the time to make repairs is right away, before the damage grows

Watch The Weather

Freezing temperatures can ruin wet stucco. Wait for nighttime temperatures that stay above 40 degrees before tackling repairs. Hot, dry, windy weather can also interfere by sucking out moisture the mix needs to cure properly. Work in the shade so the stucco doesn’t dry too fast. Between coats, keep the patch moist by covering it with a plastic sheet

Work Safely

The alkalis in wet cement can cause burns. So when working with fresh stucco, wear gloves or touch the mix only with your tools, not your fingers. Keep a bucket of water nearby to wash any splashes off your skin.

Finish It Right

No patch, no matter how expertly textured, will match the color of the old stucco around it. To do that, you need to apply a pigmented coating over the entire surface. The patch at this house was covered with a thick, sprayed-on acrylic elastomer that bridges and seals hairline cracks. Other acceptable coatings include concrete paints and stains, mineral paints, lime washes, and “fog coats” of pigmented cement. Whichever coating you use, make sure it’s alkaline tolerant and permeable to water vapor. Otherwise, it will be peeling off in no time.

GUIDELINES TO CHOOSE A SUITABLE STUCCO CONTRACTORS

Whether you are in need of a stucco repair or you just wish to have a completely fresh siding for your property, it is important for you to select an efficient stucco contractor. You must take out time to search for a stucco contractor. At first, you need to make thorough research and then filter them on the basis of their efficiency and your requirements. If you fail to choose a suitable stucco contractor for your project you might need another one in future to fix what the earlier one had done to your property. If you don’t want to face such a situation in future, here are some tips which will help you find the right contractor for you.

RESEARCH

Every search-operation begins with proper research. It is recommended to not to go for the first option that appears to you during your research. You might find it impressive but that should not be the end of your research. Thorough research is crucial to achieving success in this operation. You can also take Google’s help in this regard by simply typing “Best stucco companies near me” Once your research is done, filter them on the basis of your requirements.

REFERENCE

Ask your friends, colleagues and relatives for recommendations. You can do it directly or you can post about your search on social media platforms to get references. Social media is an amazing platform to initiate the process. Such recommendations give you an authentic report on stucco contractors as the people who recommend them, have real life experiences of working with them. Another fact is that, if you have a stucco exterior, there are possibilities that other homes in your locality to have stucco façade. So your neighbors can also be a trustable source for such referrals.

LICENSE

You have no control over the future but you can certainly be prepared to face any unfortunate events in the future. License and insurance are the weapons that will help you win the fight against such unforeseen events. That is why it is important for you to make sure that the professional stucco contractors in Milton, Mississauga, or surrounding GTA you choose holds valid license approved by the state. Insurance to protect customers against damage is also available. If anything goes wrong during the project, you will have the right to claim the damage through insurance or bond.

GET ESTIMATES AND COMPARE

Most of the stucco contractors usually provide free quotes and bids. Your duty here is to get estimates from different contractors and compare them to ensure that you are paying the right amount. It is an obvious fact that quotes will vary but if there is a prominent difference then you must ask for an explanation.

A General Guide To Replacing The Switches Installation In Your Power Drill

Posted on (Updated by stephen

Tips for Identifying Light Switches in Your Home

Being able to identify the designs and types of light switches around your house will help you choose the best replacements. Here’s a quick look at the most common light switches.

Single-Pole Switch. Single-pole switches are the most common. These switches use a simple on-off toggle to turn lights, devices, and receptacles on and off from a single location. Flipping the switch on single-pole models connects or disconnects the circuit. Most single-pole switches are marked with on and off settings. It’s important to wire your single-pole switch in the correct direction to ensure the markings match the position of the switch. A single-pole switch will have two brass screws on either side of the switch. These brass terminals house the incoming and outgoing hot wire. Some switches also come with a green ground terminal

Double-Pole Switch. Double-pole switches also utilize an on-off toggle and can only control lights, devices, or receptacles from one location. But with four brass terminals, double-pole switches can house two hot wires, which means that double-pole models can switch to a 240-volt circuit. Double-pole models also utilize a green ground screw

Three-Way Switch. Three-way switches come in pairs and allow you to turn lights on or off from two locations. This makes them ideal for controlling long hallways. Three-way designs are more complicated than single- and double-pole switches; the hot wire in three-way designs is connected to the common screw (COM). The remaining terminals are used to wire the leads for switches. Three-way switches also come with a green ground screw

Four-Way Switch. Four-way designs are combined with three-way switches to control lights from three or more locations. You can identify a four-way switch by its four terminals.

CHOOSING LIGHT SWITCHES FOR YOUR HOUSE

In need of a light switch for your new or recently renovated house? Don’t worry as there are plenty of different light switches out there in the market for you to choose from! Choosing a light switch in Singapore is not an exactly as easy as it sounds especially when you’re required to just pick a few among the ones with your preferred features.

Single Pole / 1-Gang Switch: This type of light switch is considered to be one of the most commonly used ones in Singapore. As such, a single pole switch uses a simple on and off toggle in order to control devices, receptacles, and lights from a single location. Flipping this switch on single pole models either connects or disconnects the circuit. You are required to wire the switch in a correct direction to ensure that the markings match the position of the light switches. Single-pole light switches are also likely to have two brass screws on either side of the switch. These brass terminals then house the incoming and outgoing hot wire. Additionally, a green ground terminal can also be found in such light switches.

Double-Way Switch: Like single-pole light switches, a double-pole light switch also has a green ground screw and uses an on/off toggle and controls devices such as receptacles and lights from a single location. With its four brass terminals, it can effectively house two different hot wires. This indicates that these double-pole models can switch to a 240-volt circuit. Remember to hire a certified electrician in Singapore if you are thinking of installing double-way switches. This ensures that the light switches are properly and professionally installed.

3-Gang Switch: This kind of light switch usually comes in pairs and allows you to properly turn the lights on and off from two different locations. Usually, a 3-way switch is ideally installed in long hallways. A 3-way switch design is considered to be more complicated than other kinds of switches out there. The hot wire found in this design is connected to the common screw (COM), while the remaining terminal is used to wire the leads for the switches. Like the previously discussed light switches, a 3-way light switch also comes with a green ground screw

Water heater switches usually come in 20amp and are recommended to be installed by a qualified electrician. This is because a water heater switch needs to be correctly wired to the water heater, as well as, your home’s circuit breaker or DB Box.

Types of Light Switches and Dimmers Homeowners Should Know

Light switches, once a simple decision, are now a home improvement category boasting a number of designs and functions. With different switch styles, wiring needs, and programmable capabilities, the wide variety of light switches and dimmers can be tricky to navigate. However, the basic function always remains the same: Turn a switch on and it completes the circuit, letting electricity flow through it. Turning it off breaks the circuit, as the switch creates a gap that stops the flow. After choosing the perfect chandelier, pendant, or recessed lighting for your home makeover, make sure you pick the right electrical switch for your needs. Take a look at our guide to switches and dimmers to pick the right lighting option for your room.

Types of Switches and Dimmers

Be sure to select a switch that’s compatible with the circuit where you want to install it and your lighting needs. Here are the basic types of switches and dimmers.

Essential Light Switches

The most common household switch, a single-pole, has two terminals and simply turns power on or off. A three-way switch has three terminals; a four-way has four. These control a light from two or three switch locations, such as at the top and bottom of a stairwell, at either end of a hallway, or in a large room with multiple entrances

Special Light Switches

In addition to the familiar toggle and rotary switches, specialty switches can do everything from turning on when you walk into a room to varying the speed of whole-house fans. Other special-duty switches can be time-programmed or let you know whether a remote light is on or off. Decorative switches include styles that rock, turn, or slide rather than toggle.

Single-Pole Switch

Single-pole switches have two brass terminal screws and a toggle labeled ON and OFF. Most also have a grounding screw that connects to the circuit’s ground wire. This type of light switch controls one light fixture (or electrical outlet) from a single location. When installing, always connect two hot wires to it, not two neutrals. One terminal connects to the incoming power-source wire, while the other is used for the outgoing hot wire to the fixture. This light switch is good for small rooms that don’t have many light sources.

factors for finding the perfect switch for your application

The process of selecting switches does not always receive the time and attention it deserves. Given the relatively low cost and simple nature of most switches, often they are selected without full consideration of the features and functionality they offer. Depending on the application, there are certain parameters that will guide a designer to choose a particular switch, but amidst the myriad of options that are available it is all too easy to be led astray.

Driven by Data

The advent of the Internet of Things (IoT) is generating vast amounts of data across all sectors. This data needs to be stored or, more often, communicated. The necessity of accommodating the required antennas, transmitters and additional circuitry can have a drastic impact on the space available for operational, detection and data collection components, such as switches. Despite this, switches must still interface with the user, while also withstanding harsh environments and aggressive interaction. Manufacturers of medical equipment, for example, are increasingly focusing their investments on developing the systems and platforms to store, correlate and analyze this data. Designers must therefore carefully select switches that are capable of meeting demanding specifications, including miniaturization and low power consumption.

Meeting Physical Demands

With the growth of wearables, the demand for switches is growing. While wearable devices have been around for some time, there are different philosophies when it comes to designing devices for different industries. Components within medical wearable devices, for example, need to be resilient against rough treatment and environmental challenges, while also working the first time, every time. The challenge for designers is to ensure that every individual component is fit for purpose within the demanding environments in which these machines operate. Switches are a vital part of the interface between a user and a device, so when it comes to ensuring consistent performance, long life and quality of the switches, making the correct choice is crucial.

Form Factor

Within the industrial sector, for example, switches are used in a variety of applications including CNC machine controls, safety and position sensors, battery chargers, power supplies and gas detection equipment, to name but a few. One thing they all have in common is that space is limited on the PCB, both when it comes to height and footprint. This form factor is becoming increasingly important as the functionality of devices increases, making the real estate on the PCB even more valuable.

Electrical Rating

Another crucial consideration for switch choice is the required signal current. There is a great variety in electrical requirements depending on the product design, with some switches needing to handle low signal currents for PLCs and microprocessor inputs, while some need to handle higher currents in order to actuate relays

things to consider before installing smart light switches

When turning your old, dumb house into a smart home, one of the best places to start is with lighting. For starters, you can test the waters with a single smart bulb or set of lights — letting you dip a toe in the smart light pool before diving in head-first.

When it comes to smart lighting, one of the most seamless and natural ways to upgrade your home is with smart switches. They work as intended, even when the internet goes out and you can hardly notice them once they’re installed.

Smart bulbs, switches or plugs?

First, make sure you’re getting the right kind of smart lighting for your home. Smart switches are one of the more common options when it comes to smart lighting. You can find them at pretty much every big box home improvement store

Smart bulbs, for instance, not only let you remotely control the lights or put them on a schedule, they often also let you change the color of the lighting on the fly. Smart plugs keep things simple while letting you turn an existing lamp with a regular light bulb into one you can turn off and on from anywhere. They sometimes let you track energy consumption, as well. Both of these options come with a plug-and-play installation. If you don’t like it or want to move it later on, you can with little to no effort.

Smart switches, on the other hand, are the modest midpoint between the other two and the most natural to use. You can still control the lights from the wall switch like you always have, but you’ll get some added benefits, like dimming or a pop-out remote that will still give you easier manual control of the lights. But they’ll also work with existing light fixtures that may not accommodate a smart bulb. That said, installation is much more hands-on and permanent.

What To Expect From A Post Construction Cleaning

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How to Choose the Right Post-Construction Cleaning Service

Choosing a company to clean up a site after construction is a task that requires thoughtful consideration of a variety of factors to ensure the job is done successfully. Highly qualified cleaning crews can maximize the efficiency of the job by staying organized, on task, and working diligently. To ensure you hire the right cleaning service, look for the following five traits.

Commercial Cleaner

Commercial cleaners are better prepared for heavy-duty post-construction cleanup because they have the commercial-grade equipment needed to provide a more thorough and efficient cleaning service. While residential cleaners may be good at what they do, they do not have the capacity to clean a construction site.

Experience

A professional cleaning service with years of experience will be more likely to know exactly what needs to be done for proper construction cleanup. Likewise, they’re more likely to have highly skilled workers who are less apt to make rookie mistakes

Many Services

Before choosing a company, make sure the cleaning services you require fall under their list of offerings. Finding a company with a broad array of cleaning services is ideal.

Insured & Certified

It is extremely important to make sure the people you hire are insured so you are protected from liability if they damage the construction site. They also need to be certified so you can feel confident they are skilled professionals with the proper background and training to ensure their ability to complete the job to your satisfaction.

Tips on How to Choose the Best Construction Cleaning Services Team

While it may be tempting to leave construction cleaning up to your building crew, or hire a residential cleaning service, there are few important considerations to make in order to determine who the best construction cleaning services team is for the task at hand. After all, you’re probably working on a tight timeline and strict budget, and nothing wastes both like having to redo a job that wasn’t done right the first time.

Cleaning Calibre

Is your building project a commercial space, multi-unit building or small residential build? While residential cleaners may be adequate for cleaning the inside of smaller residential builds and home renovation projects, larger building projects warrant hiring a commercial cleaning company that specializes in post construction cleaning services. This is because commercial-calibre cleaners will have commercial-grade cleaning equipment that can more efficiently and effectively pull dirt and sawdust from hard to reach places that common shop vacs often leave behind. A commercial cleaning company will come stocked with the right training, solvents and equipment needed for everything from debris and sawdust removal, to power-washing, indoor and outdoor window cleaning (including tracks and trim), floor cleaning and polishing, carpet cleaning, and proper cleaning of appliances and surfaces (including the careful removal of adhesives and overspray). 

Construction Cleaning Experience

When your own company’s reputation is on the line, it’s wise to choose a construction cleaning services team that is well established in your business area, and that has several years of experience cleaning the types of buildings and spaces that reflect your job site. A well established cleaning company will know what’s required to render construction cleaning excellence within allotted budgets and time-frames.

Broad Enough Cleaning Expertise

Building projects can vary, and the installation of flooring and appliances can vary with it. Following the initial debris and sawdust removal, a condo development with hardwood floors and carpeting is going to have very different cleaning requirements than a freshly built or renovated commercial kitchen, showroom or factory. Time and money can be wasted having to hire more than one cleaning specialist to complete the job

Service Responsiveness

Post construction cleaning services should be rendered within 48 hours of building completion, but during a building project, somewhat unexpected things can arise that warrant the immediate help of cleaners, such as preparing for the arrival of another subcontractor, or emergency cleaning following jobsite vandalism. Having a responsive construction cleaning services team—that can promptly address cleaning emergencies as needed—will quickly help get your project back on track.

Tips on Post Construction Cleaning

The work crews have finished their jobs, cleared out, and now you’re excited to unlock the doors and get down to business. A good survey of the area tells you, however, that you’re going to have to wait a little longer. The dust has settled and the place is a royal mess

Where to start with post construction cleaning?

To begin, make sure you have the necessary supplies on hand. Here is a simple listing of the basic cleaning supplies and other equipment necessary for cleaning a space after major construction.

Dealing with all of the contractor leftovers

What a mess. It looks impossible, doesn’t it? The first step is a serious session of trash patrol. There is lumber, drywall, and garbage everywhere. Take a walk around and notice both the interior and exterior areas. Keep your eyes open for plastic tarps, tape, drop cloths and construction supplies like nails, screws, staples, bolts, etc. The crews aren’t trying to make your life difficult by making a huge mess, but still, be prepared to pick up a lot of trash and debris during this first step of post construction cleaning

Hard floors – making them presentable again with post construction cleaning

Inspect the floors. You’re going to be appalled, but don’t worry. It can be cleaned. All construction work is messy and the flooring seems to always take the brunt of the mess. Check them for any damage, then start mopping, waxing, polishing and buffing. If you should run across any wood damage, get back with the contractor and ask for it to be repaired

Rescuing your carpets from traffic, dirt, and grime

Carpet fibers will trap all of the fine wooden splinters and all of the dust. That’s not to mention the smell. You will need to use an industrial shop vacuum to get the grounded dirt and other objects out. After a good vacuum, shampooing will be in order. Steam cleaning might even be necessary. Be sure and allow for all the treated carpets to thoroughly dry before they are reopened to any foot traffic.

The Best Post-Construction Cleaning Guide

If you’ve been living with builders in your house, you know how destructive construction work can be. Even when everything goes according to plan and your tradesmen are as tidy as possible, dust and dirt are inevitable. With post-construction cleanup comes specialized cleaning requirements. Brick or drywall dust can damage your home if not cleaned properly, and some construction debris can be hazardous to your health.

Pro Housekeepers are experts at post-construction cleanups. Whether you’ve finished remodeling, are at the end of an insurance claim, or got carried away with the DIY, our post-construction cleaning tips will help you get your house back in order again so you can enjoy its new look

Before You Begin

Try to get the area as dust-free as possible before you start cleaning intensively. Not only will this make your final task easier, it’s safer to avoid breathing in a lot of dust or debris. Seal off any rooms that aren’t affected using plastic sheeting available from most hardware stores, and use masking tape (also known as painter’s tape) to secure the plastic to your walls and doors without causing lasting damage. Don’t forget to block vents and openings with more plastic sheeting to protect your HVAC system.

Fine Dust

After most construction work, fine dust will be your biggest problem. Even when taking all the proper precautions, this kind of dust is almost impossible to completely contain. Unfortunately, it can cause damage if it clogs your HVAC system or gets into electronics

Drywall and Plaster Dust

Drywall or plaster dust offers its own unique challenges to cleaners. If you get this dust too wet, you risk forming plaster and staining or damaging the surfaces of your house. If you suspect there’s plaster in the dust you’re trying to clean, follow these tips to minimize the risk of damage.

HOW TO START A POST CONSTRUCTION CLEANING BUSINESS

Construction cleanup service providers clear a building’s construction area. These crews make sure an area is ready for the next stage of work, while also ensuring the area’s safety. Construction cleanup companies have several duties. They clean buildings between construction stages and prepare areas to become safe work environments. Construction cleanup crews can conduct final sanitization and cleanings, making sure a remodeling project is complete.

You have found the perfect business idea, and now you are ready to take the next step. There is more to starting a business than just registering it with the state. We have put together this simple guide to starting your post construction cleaning business. These steps will ensure that your new business is well planned out, registered properly and legally compliant.

Plan your Business

A clear plan is essential for success as an entrepreneur. It will help you map out the specifics of your business and discover some unknowns

What are the costs involved in opening a post construction cleaning business?

Startup costs are relatively low—sitting around $2,000. Materials will need to be purchased. Normally, a cleanup crew needs chemical cleaners, mops, brooms, a shop vac, ladders, window cleaning materials, and similar items

What are the ongoing expenses for a post construction cleaning business?

A construction cleaning crew’s expenses aren’t too high. Cleaning materials, per job, can amount to less than $100. These expenses account for used cleaners, equipment depreciation and worker time. On average, a cleaning crew operator is paid between $20 and $30 for their time. Ideally, you’ll be paying your workers more than you’ll be paying for materials.