Preventing Disease Transmission Repair

Posted on by Automotive

Can you drive with a bad transmission?

Procrastination: it’s something we’re all guilty of. Why do today what you can put off until tomorrow, right? But what about your transmission? How long can you drive with a bad transmission?

Car problems always seem to strike at the most inopportune times. If your transmission is acting up, how long can you get by before taking your vehicle into a transmission shop?

You know the feeling. You’ve got a big presentation at work, a big exam coming up, or you’re about to attend your best friend’s wedding where in the ceremony you’ll be the best man. And then your car decides it won’t work. If it’s your transmission that’s the problem, maybe you’ll keep slipping out of gear and into neutral. Maybe you’ll have a struggle just to shift gears at all. Or maybe it will make such a noise that you are afraid to keep driving it. Just your luck, huh?

Except, in many cases, luck had little to do with it. Usually, you had a chance to repair your transmission before, but for one reason or another, you did not. Maybe you were just procrastinating or maybe you did have a good excuse, but that does not change your current situation. Now you have a bad transmission. What will you do?

Very few transmission problems come out of nowhere and instantly render your vehicle inoperable. Usually you have a bad transmission before you have a completely broken transmission.

Can you still drive your transmission if it changes gears roughly? Can you still drive your transmission if you see that it is leaking a little transmission fluid? Can you still drive your transmission if it is making funny noises? Can you still drive your transmission if it keeps slipping out of gear and into neutral?

The answer to all these questions is, usually, yes, though in this last scenario that can be quite dangerous. The truth is you almost always can drive on bad transmission. But for how long? Well, that is up to you.

Driving with a bad transmission is a simple matter of risk analysis. How much are you willing to risk having to get major transmission repairs or even a transmission replacement?

It’s always best to nip small problems in the bud before they become big ones. If you absolutely must drive with a bad transmission, check your transmission fluid first. Topping that up may ease (or even solve) the problem. If you’re really not sure, contact us at Mister Transmission and we might be able to give you an idea of how bad your transmission is. In any event, you want to drive with a bad transmission for as short a time as possible.

 

What will happen if I run out of transmission fluid?

The transmission fluid prevents the gears in your car from grinding. No transmission fluid means you can damage the gearbox. You probably already know what happens if you run out of engine oil; your engine will have a meltdown. And no, we aren’t using figurative language. Your engine will overheat and damage itself if you continue to try and drive without oil. That is pretty much what will happen to your gearbox if you let your transmission fluid run out as well.

So, can you drive with a faulty transmission? Well, sure. Probably. Until it gets super damaged. Should you? Nope. If you first notice something wrong when your vehicle tries to shift you’ll want to get your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as you can.

 

Is it worth it to fix the bad transmission?

When determining the answer as to how long can I drive with a bad transmission, the first step in determining if it is worth fixing the transmission is to assess the damage. You need to check out what the professional says about your car’s damage – if your car is completely destroyed and your engine still runs, then you could keep your car.

If you are wondering about a rebuilt transmission, this is still a good option that can keep your car running at a high level, although not as high as new transmission. You need to evaluate what your vehicle is worth, and the cost to fix your transmission. You then need to have the repair estimate, the vehicle’s value, and undermine the next step from here.

A used or slave transmission ranges from around $800 to $1500, a rebuilt transmission ranges from $1100 to $2800, and a remanufactured transmission ranges from around $1300 to $3400. The total cost of these services can help you answer the question of how long can I drive with a bad transmission.

The labor to remove and replace a transmission can be quite expensive as well, with the average cost ranging from around $500 to $1200, with the labor taking between 4 to 10 hours of billed time. Despite being expensive, transmission problems should never go unattended and cause further problems. By determining what you need to have fixed in your car, you can answer yourself the question of how long can I drive with a bad transmission.

 

How to Tell You Have a Transmission Problem

There are a number of ways you can tell whether or not your transmission has a problem. One of the most identifiable signs is through your vehicle’s dashboard. If your engine light is on, this can signal a variety of things, but often times it means there is a problem with the transmission or engine. If you do notice that the engine light is on, make sure that you have the vehicle checked right away.

Another indicator of a bad transmission is when the transmission is not properly shifting into gears. Your vehicle should move from one gear to the next without you even noticing. You should never feel the shift or hear the shift while you are driving. If you can hear or feel the vehicle shifting then there is a problem.

You can also tell the transmission has problems if you notice that the vehicle does not move right away or has trouble getting up to speed. These are two signs that the vehicle is in need of a transmission repair. Your vehicle should not have to work to get up to speed and you should be able to accelerate and the vehicle move down the road.

 

Signs of transmission failure

When you start to notice signs of a transmission slipping in your car, this means that you have a limited amount of time to fix the issue and keep your car running in smooth condition. If the transmission in your car starts to act up and is not working properly, then it is key to check it fast, either yourself or by a local mechanic. These problems can quickly escalate and cause you to not be able to drive with a bad transmission.

Luckily, there are a few blown transmission symptoms to keep an eye out for that will alert you to when your transmission is going bad or give you information as to how long can I drive with a bad transmission.

Slipping transmission

Regardless of whether you have an automatic transmission or a manual transmission, both of these systems contain a clutch system that is in charge of separating and changing gears, switching between the gears to let you maintain a high performance by our car. With time, this system can wear down and your transmission system will literally start to slip while changing into the next gear.

Another cause of a slipping transmission is low transmission fluid pressure, caused by low levels of transmission fluid, clogged transmission filters, or a bad pump. These issues will continue to worsen over time, until they reach the point where the transmission will completely cease and not be able to engage at all.

This can provide the answer to the question of how long can I drive with a bad transmission.

Strange smells

As you know by now, various components in the car have their own fluid types and fluid levels, so the transmission has its own fluid to keep it running properly and prevent overheating. The transmission fluid is designed to lubricate and prevent overheating, making sure all of the gears are spinning correctly and smoothly. After the vehicle reaches a high mileage, this transmission fluid can either leak out or burn inside of the transmission.

If you see any fluid leaking under your car, check the fluid to see if it is red in color. If the fluid is red and you notice an unusual smell accompanying the red fluid leak puddle, then this can be a clear sign that your transmission is in need of service. The servicer required is a change of the transmission fluid or adding transmission fluid levels to keep it topped up correctly. If you do not do this, it can lead to a blown transmission.

Transmission warning light

Many cars that are on the market today have various warning lights and sensors that can alert the driver, and even the passengers, to common problems inside of the car. This can prevent the problem from getting worse, and allow you to fix the issue before it turns into a costly replacement. Most of the new cars today have sensors to make sure you do not harm the car, so keep an eye out for any check engine lights that turn on your dashboard.

This check engine light and transmission warning light shows that the transmission fluid is either running too low in the system or it is burning out too quickly, causing the temperature within the transmission system or the engine to rise beyond the normal limit. When the overheating occurs, this can cause the transmission to seize or blow. If you notice that your transmission is going to seize, you need to stop driving before you learn the hard way how long I can drive with a bad transmission.

Rough shifting

You might notice that your shifting has become very rough, along with rough engine idling, and the car jerking while accelerating or shifting. The most common cause of hard shifts in your vehicle is low transmission fluid level, so make sure you regularly check your fluid level with the schedule that your mechanic or manufacturer has set forth for your specific car. Jerky shifting can also be caused by too much line pressure, due to a clog or malfunctioning transmission shift solenoid. If the jerking while shifting occurs, you need to ask yourself how long can I drive with a bad transmission.

Transmission fluid leak

Along with the strange smells in your car, the fluid leak accompanies the odor coming from the transmission area. A transmission has its own fluid, as we know, that is designated just for lubrication and preventing overheating of the transmission. The fluid in the transmission is there to lubricate and ensure the gears are spinning smoothly and running together.

If you notice that there is red fluid leaking from under your car or a weird smell, then your transmission will need a quick fluid service as soon as possible. If you do not fix the transmission fluid leak, this can cause a blown transmission. A blown transmission will mean you can’t continue driving your car, answering the question of how long can I drive with a bad transmission.

Grinding or odd sounds

Not just automatic transmission, but both manual and automatic transmission will make strange sounds that can get quite loud when they start to go bad or become damaged over time. If you have a car with automatic transmission, you might hear a sound or some low humming noises, or even buzzing sounds coming from under the hood.

Steps To Building The New Home Builder Of Your Dreams

Posted on by Home Improvement

HOME BUILDING GUIDE

Whether you’re hiring a GENERAL CONTRACTOR, using a CONSTRUCTION CONSULTANT or managing your job as an OWNER/BUILDER, you can use the resources to get the home you want.

mission is to advocate for the consumer through his internet, educational and journalistic endeavors so owners will get the home they want in a way that helps each individual achieve excellence, efficiency and effectiveness throughout their home building project. His objective is to earn the building community’s complete trust, confidence and respect by providing the highest degree of knowledge-based service possible.

The Home Building Consumer’s Guide is specifically produced for individuals who want to personally get involved in the Design/Build process for a home building or remodeling project. It takes a very integrated approach to the construction industry, and professionals and consumers alike are provided with a very practical

Participants in the Design/Build process are empowered to become better collaborators. This is not another “How To” approach which leads you through the hands-on labor of residential construction. Rather, it allows you to better understand the decision making process whether you work with a construction consultant, general contractor, or act as an owner/builder.

The checklists, models, forms, and guidelines act as a prompt to help you analyze the unique circumstances of your project. To further assist in your planning and organizing efforts, the resources at “Related Links” and “News” and “Subs/Vendors” are to be used in conjunction with the Home Building Consumer’s Guide as a means to fully investigate home design and construction resources. You need to develop a working relationship within the building community as a whole.

 

BUILDING THE PERFECT HOME ON YOUR LAND

WHAT IS BUILDING A CUSTOM HOME ON YOUR LAND?

Building a custom home on your land is a very different process than either buying an existing house or having a new house built in a neighborhood. First, if you’re having a home built on land that you own, then you own the project from the very beginning. And you only get one shot at it. Second, since you own the land, you—not the builder—provide the financing. Those two differences mean that building on your land is a much more emotional process than simply buying a home or having

INTRODUCTION: EVERYTHING YOU WANTED TO KNOW (AND EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW) ABOUT BUILDING A CUSTOM HOME ON YOUR LAND.

The purpose of this guide is to give you the knowledge you need to achieve your dream of having a one-of-a-kind custom home on your own land. We want to empower you to confidently go out and get all the necessary pieces together to make this dream come to life.

A word of caution: It’s tempting to think you can navigate the home-building process on your own. Yes, it is entirely possible to get a house plan, hire each subcontractor yourself, make a few phone calls, schedule the work, and avoid paying a professional to build the house for you. We all live, or have lived, in a house and land is land, so it all seems familiar, right?

I’ve built hundreds of homes myself, not to mention how many my father has built since 1964. Believe me when I tell you we learn new lessons every week. The cost of those lessons can be in the hundreds of thousands of dollars. You can’t  afford to make those mistakes on your own house. You risk going so far over budget you’ll either go broke or you’ll have to sell the brand new home you’ve built because you can’t afford it. At the very least, you’ll have invested much more than if you had hired a competent builder, plus you’ll have a lot of frustration and regret as well.

To have a new, one-of-a-kind, custom home built on your land, there are four basic things you’ll need:

  1. A competent, professional home builder;
  2. Money (either cash or a construction loan);
  3. Land that is appropriate for building a house;
  4. A house plan that fits your needs, wants, and budget.

 

ORGANIZE YOUR BUILD: THE OWNER-BUILDER HOME PLANNER

DO YOU HAVE A BIG GOAL OF BUILDING YOUR OWN HOME FROM SCRATCH? A DREAM OF CREATING YOUR ONE-OF-A-KIND PLACE ON THIS EARTH? A PLACE THAT YOU CAN TRULY CALL HOME AND MAYBE PASS DOWN TO THE NEXT GENERATION?

You know you want to build your home while you have the opportunity. But you have to be careful.

IMAGINE WAKING UP IN A BEDROOM THAT YOU BUILT FOR YOURSELF. EATING A HOME-COOKED BREAKFAST IN A KITCHEN YOU CREATED WITH YOUR OWN HANDS. SITTING ON YOUR OWN PORCH AT THE END OF THE DAY AND WATCHING THE SUNSET KNOWING THAT YOU’VE CREATED YOUR PERFECT SPOT ON THIS EARTH FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.

You can do it. I know you can, because we did.

The easy part is figuring out how to put your materials together and actually build the thing. You can find videos on YouTube. You can read books and manuals. Heck, you can volunteer with Habitat for Humanity and learn some tricks of the trade. But that’s not what’s scary about building a home.

The real fear is wasting tens of thousands of dollars building a home that ends up being unlivable at the end. Of not following codes and ending up having your permit denied at the very end. Of ruining your family financially because you didn’t budget well enough.

I’ve seen countless people fail because they didn’t know how much of a house they could *actually* afford. Or didn’t realize they couldn’t legally build on their own land because of its flood or fire risk zoning until they’d already plunked down tens of thousands of dollars of their hard-earned cash. Or learned partway through that they couldn’t get insurance on their size and type of build.

 

BUILDING GUIDE

YOUR PLAN

We offer a range of plans to choose from, alternately we can design your home to suit your needs.

APPROVE QUOTE

A scheme plan and quote will be presented including your wish list and changes.

PRE-CONSTRUCTION PAYMENT

This is required to obtain necessary professional reports and consenting documentation

COLOURS

Our colour consultant will help you choose your colour scheme.

KITCHEN DESIGN

Our kitchen designer will work with you to finalise your kitchen concept.

ELECTRICAL CONSULT

Finalise the location of power points and light fittings, a great time to discuss any automation requirements.

APPROVE CONCEPT PLAN

This is your final concept, it includes the position of your house on your site, earthworks, retaining walls, driveways and drainage.

 

The Guide for Buying Land, Building a House or Buying New Construction

Sometimes, buying an existing home just won’t work. You may be a homebuyer who’s tired of competing for highly desired homes in the neighborhood you want, or maybe you just don’t like the idea of living in an older house.

Either way, you have options if you’d prefer to live in a brand-new house. Whether you’re planning to buy a teardown and build a home on the perfect plot of land or buy into a new housing development, prepare for a process that differs from purchasing an existing property.

Buying Land to Build a House

If you’re starting from scratch, the first thing you need to do is buy land, which can be a simple process — or prove fraught with problems if you fail to do your due diligence. Be sure to follow these steps before you close on a plot of land.

Check the zoning and condition of the property. Few things will be more disappointing than buying the perfect plot of land for your dream home, only to find out that it’s not OK to live on, either due to zoning issues or soil contaminants that make living there a hazard.

Check the zoning, grade and soil quality, as well as other details specific to the area that may keep a house from being constructed on the land. Even if there’s an existing home on the property, it’s important to check, as zoning or soil quality could have changed since that structure was built. A real estate agent familiar with buying land can help you with the due diligence process.

How To Choose A Sewer Inspection Contractor

Posted on by Plumbing

What is a Sewer Scan Camera Inspection?

To inspect the main sewer line from the house to the public sewer system for possible problems, a special sewer video camera is inserted into the main sewer line cleanout.  Then everything is watched on a monitor, and our sewer scope inspectors sometimes record a video or take pictures of any issues within the pipes.

The sewer line inspection service is available in Oakland County, Macomb County, and some areas of the surrounding areas. Please to schedule an inspection, or schedule online.

3 Signs Your Main Sewer Line is Clogged

The sooner you recognize the warning signs of main sewer line blockage and call for a sewer line inspection, the better. Clogs in the main sewer line that goes ignored or unnoticed can lead to costly repairs, but can also expose your family to contaminated water. Here are a few signs of possible issues:

  • Multiple backed-up drains. If more than one drain is slow-moving, gurgling, smells bad, or has water backing up, this most likely indicates a main sewer line clog.
  • Water overflows into different plumbing fixtures. This happens because water from one branch line tries to drain away, but the main sewer clog blocks it and forces it to back up into other smaller drains.
  • Drainage in sewer clean out. Remove the clean out cap. if there is sewer water flowing out of the pipe or standing in the pipe, this also indicated you have a sewer line clog.

 

What problems can be identified using a sewer line camera?

A sewer inspection video camera allows the service technician to see any problems with the pipe. This might include root intrusion, cracks, punctures, corrosion, or misaligned pipe sections. The camera will also identify grease buildup, leaks and obstructions. A follow-up video inspection can be conducted after service is performed to verify that the pipeline has been properly cleaned or repaired.

When should my pipes undergo an inspection using a sewer line inspection camera?

This type of inspection is recommended if you experience repeated sewer or drain line backups, slow drains or clogs. Additionally, realtors and prospective homeowners often see the cost benefit of conducting a professional video inspection of sewer pipes before purchasing a home. The sewer inspection will determine whether the sewer line is free of problems that could lead to expensive future repairs.

 

How do you know if you have a collapsed drain?

Key signs which are accurate indicators if you have a collapsed drain. Collapsed drains must be fixed as soon as possible to minimise the damage and the expense of fixing them so if any of the following symptoms present, it’s best to get a professional out and act quickly.

Backed up sewers or regular pipe blockages

These 2 less than savoury events are an indicator of a collapsed drain as the sewage can’t physically move through the collapsed pipe so it gets backed up. If this happens regularly then it implies damage to the pipe or a collapsed drain. Ordering a CCTV survey will confirm this, so you can act on it.

Strong smell of sewage

If there’s damage to a pipe or a collapsed drain, then you’ll regularly notice the smell of sewage in or around the home. Once drains have been unblocked then it’s likely this will disappear but with a collapsed drain, this will continue to reappear until the issue is fixed.

The presence of rodents or other unwanted visitors

When a drain is compromised it’s easy for rats and other sewer-dwelling creatures to gain access to your home. They may start to reside in the pipes and there’s no reason why they won’t venture closer and closer to the home, especially if the sewers are backed up and leaking into the home. Dealing with the infestation first is key, then you can deal with the drainage problem. Prevent the infestation from day one by looking into non-return valves which allow sewage to flow out but not back in, as shown above.

 

Slow Drains

There could be several reasons for water that drains off slowly from your sink, shower or bathtub, so it’s not necessary to panic straight away. If it is just the shower that is taking forever to drain, the problem is probably something to do with the plumbing inside instead. Try to clear the blockage yourself by checking the plughole and using the plunger to create enough force to move the blockage.

If that doesn’t work, get rid of as much of the water as you can and then pour a cup of baking soda down the drain. Follow this up with a cup of vinegar. This is a natural method that doesn’t contain any of the nasty chemicals that are usually present in the drain cleaner.

Why not just use drain cleaner? Because, if there is a problem with the main line, it’s likely to be a tree root, or collapsed pipe. There is nothing that drain cleaner can do about that. It can actually cause further damage because the chemicals in it are highly corrosive in nature. The longer that they sit in the pipe for, the more potential there is for corrosive damage to occur. Like with the clogged drains, to properly diagnose a mainline issue, the problem would have to be present in several drains in the home.

Your Lawn Is Soaked

Because your home’s main sewage line is located outside, if there are any issues with your sewer line, it is very likely that this will reflect onto your lawn. If your sewer line is collapsed or if there are cracks in the sewer pipes, then it is easier for dirt to make its way inside. This would also mean that water can now escape and makes its way outside, such as onto your lawn. If you notice that your lawn is persistently soaked, or you can see any puddles, it could definitely be a sign that there are issues with your sewer system. This needs immediate attention because a cracked or broken pipeline not only wastes water and unnecessarily increases your utility bill, but it can also lead to further damage and costly repairs that are best avoided. Another indication of a soaked lawn is fast-growing grass. If you notice that your grass has been growing exceptionally fast lately, this could be because of your damaged sewer line.

 

Insect and Rodent Infestation

On that note, an unusual increase in insect and rodent activity can be a sign that you have a broken sewer line. Rodents make their homes in sewers and can squeeze through the smallest cracks to find their way into your home. The same can be said for insects that can wriggle through a cracked drain pipe and breed in the stagnant water, allowing them to multiply rapidly. Both rodents and insects can cause health issues and need to be dealt with along with the sewer line breakage itself.

Mold & Mildew

Wet spots on your home’s ceilings, walls, or floors can all be signs of a collapsed sewer line or broken water pipe. If left unchecked, water infiltration from a sewer or water line can cause mold and mildew to spread rapidly. The spores from these fungi can cause severe allergic reactions, and their ability to eat through organic building materials over time can cause damage to your home’s interior, exterior, or foundation.

Broken Slabs and Wall Cracks

Buildings will often develop cracks in the concrete slab and supporting walls as they settle and the ground shifts beneath them. However, if your home is developing new cracks it may be because you have a broken sewer line that is washing away the soil supporting the foundation. If the crack is caused by a leak, the situation is unlikely to improve over time. More water will continue to wash away the surrounding soil until the foundation can no longer support the weight of the structure above. In a worst-case scenario, the house itself may collapse. A thorough inspection can determine if you have a sewer line breakage or another issue that is causing your home or business to develop cracks.

Solar Energy Goes Through The Residential Roofing

Posted on by Roofing

Residential Roof Replacement Contractor

Building & Roofing was founded with the intention of helping homeowners resolve their roofing needs and problems. One of the most commonly sought service is roof replacement, which is why have dedicated time, effort, and resources in mastering the art roof replacement and new roof installation for your satisfaction.

Having the service of a residential roofing contractor here, OR and its nearby area is not like purchasing a finished product, like your computers or a vehicle. For unlike those things, a roofing project such as roof replacement requires the intervention of skillful roofers and not just machineries alone that performs critical factory operations.

In view of such need of a professional roof replacement specialist for your residential property, Building & Roofing has carefully handpicked the members of team of expert roofers, installers, artisans, technicians, and project managers.

roofing personnel is able to work on your roof replacement needs, regardless of its size and complexity. Whether you need asphalt or metal roof replacement, or any other type of roofing, you can always count on us to deliver. And if you are still confused on whether roof replacement is the perfect roofing solution for your property, here are some of the things to consider as part of your decision making.

Age of Your Roof: If there is nothing wrong with your roofing system as you perceive it, you may still want to have a roof replacement project done because of your roof’s age. Most roofing materials come with a 20 year or more warranty, and if your roof is already passed the suggested usable period, then roof replacement might be the best thing to do.

 

RESIDENTIAL ROOFING

Licensed Home Roofing Experts

Like most things in a house, roofs do not last forever. Sure, a roof of good quality should last you for a very long time, but there will come a point in your home’s existence that you will find the need to have some repairs done on some roof components, or at worst, have it completely replaced. When the need arises, what better the finding the right locally owned and owner operated roofing company for that all important home investment.

REASONS WHY RE ROOFING MAY BE THE ANSWER

Having a roof replaced is an ordeal that many property owners have to go through at some point. There are many reasons why such a property improvement is necessary, and here are some of the most common

Age of Roof

One of the reasons that owners replace their roof is age. In general, a good roof should last for about two to three decades, or even longer. If the roof is older than its recommended lifespan, even if it does not show any visible signs of damage, it is a good idea to have it checked and replaced by a professional roofing company.

Damaged Shingles

Damaged shingles do not always mean that the whole roof needs to be replaced; however, if the number of damaged shingles is too many, then having the entire roof replaced is a much better and more feasible alternative.Some of the most common problems with shingles include curling and buckling. If the shingles are losing their granules, then this means that they have outlived their expected durability and usability. An easy way to know for sure is by checking for shingle granules in the gutter, since they usually fall and get trapped there after rainstorms.

Roof Valleys

A roof’s valleys are the areas most prone to damage, since much of the snow, ice and rain flow through them before reaching the gutters, as this part is a junction that connects sections of the roof. If there are missing shingles in these areas, this is a sign that the roof is failing and may need replacement.

 

RESIDENTIAL ROOFING SERVICES

team of roofing experts and specialists have over 50 years’ experience in the industry between them and take Health and Safety procedures very seriously. The welfare of staff is a priority just as much as the safety of customers. honest team of specialists can survey your roof and advise you on the best route to take whether this is a small repair or a complete replacement, you can trust us to do what’s right for you and your roof!

FELT ROOFING & REPAIRS

Roofing felt is a material that lies between the actual roof and the house and the final layer of roofing material. It is an added layer of protection from the elements, and a necessary layer should even one shingle be blown off of your roof in a storm. Roofing felt protects the roof, which means it ultimately protects your home. It provides a barrier between the wood sheathing on the roof and the final roofing material. Should water or snow be driven between shingles by high winds, this under layer will provide valuable protection. There are many reasons to use roofing felt.

have established ourselves as the felt roofing company you can rely on and this is still one of our most popular roofing systems. Whether you need to have your felt roof repaired or fully refurbished we can supply and fit a range of felt roofing products including De-Boer.

team of roofing specialists have over 50 years of experience between them in which time they have gained a broad skill set that ensures they are able to complete work on all kinds of roofs. work with both domestic and commercial clients, providing us with experience of many different kinds of roofing, from flat roofs through to traditional pitched roofs.

 

Roofing Installation

Roofing Company has the experience and training necessary to deliver high-quality residential roofing solutions that you need, on time and on budget.

trained professionals will work with you to identify the product that best meets your needs. Additionally, you will gain peace of mind knowing that all the products we install carry manufacturer’s warranty coverage in addition to our own workmanship guarantees. You can rest assured your choice will keep you worry-free for years to come.

replace and repair all types of residential roofing systems, including: Asphalt Shingles, Metal Roofing, Membrane Roofing and much more. Below are some helpful guidelines to consider when making your decisions about your residential roofing project.

Choose a Material and Budget

can provide various samples of roofing materials for your consideration based on your needs and budget preferences. Some commonly chosen materials include the asphalt shingles, which are installed on more that 70% of all residential homes in the US*. Though common, pricing for this widely used material can vary

work closely with our distributors to ensure you get the best product pricing available for the highest quality materials. With pricing at it’s best, you are free to choose the products that best fit your needs

 

Residential Roof Repair, Replacement, Inspection and Installation

Tile, wood, clay, asphalt, concrete, slate… Holes, leaks, sun damage, cracked tiles, pigeons, decomposing underlayment, your Nerf football from 1993… One thing is for certain–there is no one better experienced, and more equipped to handle your roofing needs, no matter what material it’s made of, or what might be up there.

see mostly tiles up there. It’s some of the longest lasting material available, and it’s great in the sun. It is, however, easily broken. can color and style match anything, so whether you just need a few cracked tiles replaced, or you need a complete roof replacement and you have a specific design in mind

Maybe you’ve got a new build, and you need a reputable company to put the cherry on top of that new house. Good news, we are ready for that also.

laid more roofs than you can imagine. And we’ve learned all the tricks of the trade along the way. know just what you need to be certain that you and your family are protected from the elements, and all our work is guaranteed.

This small expense can save you thousands in the long run, but it’s something most homeowners never consider until it’s too late. Now you may thing that changing out the top of your house is an expense that will make you cringe

DIY Hardwood Flooring Refinishing

Posted on by Flooring

Carpet Vs. Hardwood Floors: What’s Best For Baby

As a new parent, the list of things you have to update in your home to prepare for your newborn never seems to end. Some of the changes are small, and as easy as baby proofing vacation homes. Others are difficult and potentially expensive, such as switching out your carpet for hardwood flooring, or vice versa. There isn’t an obvious answer when it comes to this important decision. Each option has its own list of benefits and drawbacks. Let us do some of the thinking for you with this list of pros and cons for carpeting versus hardwood floors.

Carpet Has More Cushion

Let’s start with the obvious differences. Carpet has more cushion than hardwood. Babies will be safer crawling or taking those first steps. They’ll also be more comfortable playing. Some parents do note that energetic babies might be more susceptible to nuisances like carpet burn. However, most parents would trade carpet burn for any minor head injury on hardwood. If you have old carpet in your home and can’t justify making the switch to hardwood floors, consider changing your carpet’s padding. Padding wears out quicker than the top layer of carpet. If you’re moving into a house that claims to have installed new carpeting, be advised that the previous owners might not have replaced the padding to cut costs.

Hardwood Is Easier To Clean

Hardwood floors are typically easier to clean. It’s just simpler to sweep than vacuum, and it’s also quieter. Everyday spills and accidents from baby will be easier to make disappear on hardwood floors. Another reason why parents appreciate hardwood floors is the fact that little things have less room to hide on hardwood. All those small spills you might miss can blend into the fibers of the carpet. Potentially harmful things can get lost in the carpet or absorbed over time, making it more probable that baby will stumble upon something they shouldn’t or get an allergic reaction before you have a chance to get out one of your trusty floor sweepers or do your daily vacuuming.

For Families With Pets

Whether you have carpet or hardwood floors, keeping the floor sanitary for baby can be a daily struggle. It can get even more complicated if you already have dogs or cats living in your home. The process of introducing baby to dogs or cats can be painless, but keeping baby away from all that pet hair and dander that builds up around the home takes extra effort. Carpet traps pet hair and can sometimes be more difficult to completely get rid of. But if you have animals that shed, keeping any type of floor hair-free is a chore, even if it might be easier to see on the hardwood.

Planning For The Future

Generally speaking, in today’s housing market, well-maintained hardwood floors are much more desirable than carpet. Not only will they last longer than carpet, even the most traditional styles are trending toward choosing hardwood over carpet. Still, hardwood isn’t universally preferred, and there is no guarantee that making the expensive switch will be worth it when the time comes to resell. Furthermore, if you’re considering the switch for resale purposes, pay attention to what type of hardwood, linoleum or tile you’re installing. Hardwood floors are preferred, but there are also several rooms that many home buyers would rather have carpeting, such as the bedrooms.

 

Carpet or wood? Experts lay out the pros and cons of each

What is the first thing your toes touch in the morning, hardwood or carpet? Flooring is one of the biggest decisions a homeowner makes. Some love the softness of carpet, the way it muffles footsteps and cushions little tushies when they take a tumble.

Some people champion hardwood’s natural beauty. It’s easy to clean and can look new for decades if cared for properly. “The floor is the first thing you decide on,” said

“Does the family remove shoes at the door? Are the pets house-trained? Does the family take dinners into the family room?” Justice said in an email. “All of these living habits will have an effect on the life of the product they buy.”

If you’re choosing flooring for a new home, or musing whether to replace a tired carpet with wood (or vice versa), there’s a lot to consider. We talked to experts in various fields for their opinions in the carpet vs. wood debate.

A floor-installation professional says:

Hardwood floors are longer-lasting and can be refinished many times to freshen the look. Hand-scraped wood flooring, with deeper grooves, hides the small dents and wear that can come from active families and pets.

 

What Kind of Flooring Increases Home Value?

Flooring is one of those things sellers overlook when bogged down with the intricacies of a home sale. But let’s just be clear from the get go — flooring matters. Buyers will walk away from homes with bad flooring the same way they’ll walk away from homes that smell bad, or have little to no curb appeal.

And while there are kinds of flooring that increase home value more than others (like hardwood versus carpeting), the real challenge in selling an imperfect home is knowing which remodeling projects will increase value, and which will decrease value

What Floors Do Buyers Look For?

It’s no surprise— hardwood flooring has long been the top choice for buyers and agents alike, and remains so in today’s market. According to a survey conducted by the National Wood Flooring Association, real estate agents agreed that homes with hardwood floors are easier to sell and sell for more money — up to 10% more than an identical home without wood floors.

But although many buyers would be relieved to find hardwood over carpeting, not all hardwood floors are equal, with the current trend gearing towards wood floors in rustic-chic applications.

Hardwoods absolutely reign supreme, with a few styles making it to the top of everyone’s list; but you can still make a great sale on your home even if it isn’t fully decked out in the materials of the moment.

 

Hardwood Flooring Guide

hardwood flooring has brought the beauty of the forest into our indoor living spaces, adding strength and beauty. While décor trends have changed with the times, the lure of hardwood still beckons. These days, there are more hardwood flooring options than ever before, and new products are frequently being introduced to the market.

Since hardwood flooring can represent a significant investment, choosing the right one for your space isn’t a decision that should be made in haste. Simply put, hardwood floors aren’t necessarily the best option for every home, but that being said, there are definitely more options for would-be hardwood enthusiasts. Different wood species, finishes, and compositions are available to fit a full array of budgets, lifestyles, and tastes. There are finished hardwoods and unfinished hardwoods, as well as solid hardwoods and engineered hardwoods. All can present excellent options for today’s modern homeowners.

What You Might Want to Think About When Buying Hardwood Floors

Congratulations, you have made the decision to install hardwood floors. Carpet, vinyl, ceramic tile, and all other various types of flooring were considered, but in the end hardwood was the best choice for your needs. The decision-making process does not end there though; there are still factors to consider when selecting your hardwood flooring. These factors will influence your floor’s appearance, function, and durability

Here are some things you will want to consider while selecting your hardwood floor:

Wood Type: The species of wood you select will affect your floor’s natural colour, grain pattern, hardness, and the amount of expansion/contraction the wood will undergo as it is exposed to temperature and moisture changes.

Wood Finish: Do you want to stain your floor to dramatically change the colour of the planks? Do you want to make the grain “pop” with a natural finish? Do you want the natural look of the wood to change at all? One species of wood can take on many appearances, so think about what kind of finish you would like for your room.

Board Width: A lot of people don’t think about this, but you can select the plank width of your flooring. Wide 5 inch planks can be selected for a more traditional, old fashioned feel, or thinner 2 inch boards can be selected for a more contemporary look. Edges of the boards can also be beveled to leave a groove between each board, or made square so that each board lies flush with each other for a smooth, flat surface.

Board Texture: Do you want your floorboards to be smooth and flat, or would you prefer a textured look? You can have either option, with some higher-end planks even having a hand-scraped texture, just like the olden days.

Solid or Engineered Hardwood: Unsure about what types of hardwood floors best suits your home? Come by our showroom at 454 Veterans Drive, Unit 18, Barrie, ON to speak with our talented staff.

Solid vs Engineered Hardwood

Today’s shoppers are generally presented with two major types of hardwood flooring to choose: solid hardwood and engineered hardwood. Although it’s difficult, and sometimes even impossible, to tell the difference between the two upon first glance, there’s a lot going on beneath the surface.

 

TIPS FOR CHOOSING HIGH QUALITY ENGINEERED WOOD FLOOR

You might be considering hardwood flooring for your new home or renovation project. An engineered wood floor is a popular choice. You want to make sure your floors are done right. To that end, you want to be sure you’re choosing the highest quality wood flooring for your home. These tips will help you do just that.

Double-Check the Lengths of Your Engineered Wood Floor

The first thing you want to do when you’re selecting engineered wood is check the lengths. Most people understand the plank width is quite important when it comes to flooring

Consider the Species for Your Floor

Another consideration in picking the right hardwood flooring is the species. Different species have different qualities. One species might offer certain advantages, depending on the room or even the climate you live in. White Oak for instance readily takes a custom stain color.

Select Unfinished Flooring to Create the Perfect Match

It used to be that you could only buy engineered hardwood that was pre-finished. Today, you can buy unfinished planks for your wood floor

Look for a High-Quality Core

You will never see the underside of your engineered wood floor, but that doesn’t mean it’s not important. In fact, the plywood core is one of the key factors in determining the quality of wood flooring.

What is Chiropractor Marketing

Posted on by Health

Tips for New Chiropractors

Embarking on a new career as a chiropractor can be an exciting and rewarding experience. However, transitioning from classroom training to working with patients and running your own business is oftentimes easier said than done. From running a profitable business, to building rapport with clients and patients, many lessons simply can’t be taught in a classroom—they need to be learned on the job. To help with this transition, we spoke with seven industry experts, and asked them to share their some of their advice for new chiropractors.

Figure out how you want to practice

are woefully ill-equipped in business skills getting out of chiropractic school. The number one question I ask all new chiropractors, chiropractic students or prospective students is WHY do you want to be a chiropractor? Motive is key. If money is your motive, then I wish you luck and suggest you focus on a personal injury practice.

Next, you need to know how you would like to run your office. Will it be an all-cash practice? Will you deal with insurance? Will you focus on personal injury, sports, pediatrics or would you like to be an all-around chiropractor seeking to help every person you come across to live life to their fullest? Will you need x-ray in office or is having nearby facilities adequate?

Deliver value to your patients first

For years, I used to speak to the 12th quarter students at Life Chiropractic College West on the ins and outs of insurance billing. The very first question I always asked the room was “Who plans on going all cash and not take insurance in their practice?” Within seconds, 75% of the hands in the room would shoot up. Then, 6 to 12 months later I would get phone calls from those same students, now doctors, wondering if I could help them get started with insurance.

What changed? Once they started practicing, these new doctors were confronted by the reality of eliminating any obstacles for patients to sign up for care. After sitting through consultation after consultation with patients asking if their insurance would cover the care, and having patients get up to leave once they realized that they would have to pay out-of-pocket, these doctors were now eager to make the sales conversation with new patients easier.

 

THINGS YOU MUST PLAN BEFORE YOU OPEN YOUR CHIROPRACTIC FRANCHISE

If you are thinking of starting your chiropractic franchise, then you are probably an entrepreneur and might not be scared to try new things. If this describes you, then congratulations, the world needs more people like you!

The potential problem that many entrepreneurs and dominant personality-type people have when they begin something new is the details.  They can nail down their vision, their goals, and their purpose; but when it comes to opening day, they sometimes get a bit lost.

Does this describe you?

Would you love to step into the adventure of starting your own clinic and practice, but the details scare you and hold you back?

How can you start a chiropractic franchise with as little headache as possible?

The answer is simple:  partner with Nuspine Chiropractic when you begin your chiropractic franchise!  Our desire is to partner with you and provide the framework and support you need so that you can focus on starting and running your own practice.

TRAINING

When we talk about training in the context of opening day, we are not talking about your license to practice; we are assuming you are already licensed.

 

How Often Do I Need Chiropractic Adjustments?

So you’ve decided to seek chiropractic treatment. The next step: determining how frequently to follow up.

The reasons people seek chiropractic treatment are many. Some use a chiropractor’s skills for back adjustments, or aligning vertebrae for preventive care. Others want help managing serious pain conditions, such as scoliosis or whiplash.

Different chiropractors have different philosophies concerning adjustments. The goal of some chiropractors is to help you return to your prior state of health, and then they don’t necessarily expect to see you again, unless you have further problems.

What does a chiropractor do?

Chiropractors can often treat common back and neck pain in a few sessions, sometimes with once-a-week visits.

It may take longer or more frequent visits, however, depending on your individual condition, underlying factors that are stressing your body and length of symptoms. Your previous injuries may affect treatment time, along with any proper care you received and rehabilitation for those injuries when they occurred.

Serious pain requires intensive chiropractic treatment

If you have a condition or injury causing serious pain, you’ll likely need intensive treatment. This might entail as many as two or three back adjustments a week, with a gradually decreasing number of weekly visits that could last a year or more. It depends on your condition, how severe your body’s damage is and your level of pain, combined with how well you respond to chiropractic care

 

important times your baby needs to be checked by a pediatric chiropractor during the first year and why

Have you ever wondered why you see so many kids going to a pediatric chiropractor when they aren’t complaining of back pain? Why so many of your friends have been taking their kids to a pediatric chiropractor? The health benefits reach so much further than pain

What is chiropractic for kids?

Chiropractic is based on the delicate relationship between the spine and nervous system. When a child is faced with major traumas (like birth, bad falls, accidents) or repetitive traumas that seem minor (like learning to walk, bumping their head constantly, etc) it can cause the spine to create interference with your child’s nervous system. This interference can be like static on a cell phone making it difficult for your child’s brain and body to communicate properly

This is the system that controls EVERYTHING! And when a child is growing and developing, their brain and nerves are working like crazy. If the interference is left unchecked, it can create health problems. Things like ear infections, allergies, colic, bed-wetting, sensory processing disorders, difficulty breastfeeding, and the list goes on. Realistically, anything that the nervous system controls can be affected, which again is everything. That is why parents with children of all ages have trusted pediatric chiropractors like us for generations.

Birth

This is THE most important time in your child’s life to be checked. The trauma experienced by mom and baby during the birthing process is so severe and yet so often overlooked. Sometimes things like forceps or vacuum extraction make it easy to see the physical stress that can be caused, but most times it goes unnoticed. The amount of traction (pulling on the head and neck) that your brand-new baby has to go through is the same as putting a 30-50 pound weight vest on your child and picking them up by the head. The same thing goes for babies born via caesarean section. Since our babies can’t talk, it’s easy to overlook this trauma. But as a pediatric chiropractor, I am able to remove the damage and restore the function of your child’s nervous system

Using their head

When a baby is born, they have one primary curve in their spine. When they start to use their head, the curve in their neck (called cervical lordosis) begins to develop. This causes a lot of strain and tension in their delicate spine and nerves. If this tension is left, it can cause the curve in their neck to not develop properly. This curve is the closest to their brain and is very important to their overall health.

 

CHIROPRACTOR NEAR ME

search the term chiropractor near me to look for a new office. The market avails so many chiropractors which can make choosing one confusing. Below is a simplification of the process of figuring out how to find a chiropractor near me.

do a consultation before deciding on receiving their care. This marks an important step since it helps you in feeling comfortable as you get the treatment in that environment. On your first visit take a look at examining rooms, reception area as well as any staff you come across.

Secondly, go online and look for grades and reviews given to various chiropractors form former and current patients. However, do not consider only this factor but let it be considerable. Seeing more of positive reviews with no bad reviews does not imply the doctor is great. Instead, look for a doctor who has a good mix of both bad and good reviews as this shows the reviewers are more real.

Visit an association website as you look for a chiropractor. This assures you of getting a doctor with all necessary licensing in the field. Different regions have different laws about chiropractors, therefore ensure to research to ensure the doctor you choose has proper certifications and licenses as needed by your region laws. If you visit an organization website of chiropractic, the need for much research will be reduced.

Look for referrals by people in your locality for recommendations of best chiropractors. Such people include co-workers, family members, friends or even anyone else capable of giving recommendation. In case you lack someone to enquire from, ask the physicians of primary care in your reach.

Finding Tax Preparation Properties

Posted on by Accounting

Can your tax preparer get your stimulus check?

Where are stimulus checks going?

A tax preparation consultant in the Washington, D.C., area, has been inundated with calls and emails from clients wondering what happened to their payout.

“I had to investigate,”

We discovered that the unrecognized digits people found listed on the portal were linked to refund transfers accounts, often created on behalf of taxpayers who want preparation fees taken out of refunds so they don’t have to pay preparers upfront.

“Those last four digits on the Get My Payment portal match the transfer provider’s information that has been submitted to the IRS,”

After you file your taxes with a tax professional, transfer banks such as MetaBank, Republic Bank and Santa Barbara Tax Product Group set up temporary accounts for taxpayers who want a refund advance or to deduct tax preparation fees from a refund.

That account number and the bank’s routing number are sent off with the tax return to the IRS.

The IRS deposited some stimulus checks into these temporary accounts, according to MetaBank. “The IRS has not explained to us why this error occurred,” MetaBanks said in a statement.

 

How Will I Get My CARES Stimulus Payment if my Preparer Paid My Refund?

The IRS also noted that a due to a reporting error the “Where’s My Payment” app sometimes stated that rejected payments were going to the same account a second time. According to the IRS, these payments were in fact to be mailed as checks  and not re-sent to the closed account.

If you experienced this issue and were not aware that your refund was paid through your preparer, you may reconsider your choice of preparers in the future. IRS and banking rules require clear disclosure of the use of these products and any associated fees. For many taxpayers, IRS FreeFile, available through the IRS website allows you to file without the fees associated with commercial preparers.

As most Americans know by now, the CARES Act instructs the IRS to send every non-dependent with a social security number a payment of $1,200 for an individual ($2,400 for a married couple), with an additional $500 for each child. The payments phase out for people with income over $75,000 for an individual or $150,000 for a married couple.

In order to get the money to you as soon as possible, the IRS will direct deposit the stimulus payment if the IRS knows your bank account. The IRS will rely on the bank account information reported on a taxpayer’s 2018 or 2019 income tax return in order to quickly deliver the checks to intended recipients.  For taxpayers who have not yet filed an income tax return for 2019 or for whom the filed 2019 return has not yet been processed, the IRS will use the information from the 2018 tax return, if filed.

The IRS is rolling out a “Get My Payment” application for taxpayers to enter direct deposit information if it’s not already on file, but reportedly this app cannot be used to update existing bank account information. The IRS’s description of Get Your Payment states that it will allow taxpayers who have not provided direct deposit information to provide bank information, but does not indicate that it will allow taxpayers to change information the IRS already has on file.

 

Consumers beware

“The IRS has not announced how it will send the stimulus payment to taxpayers who selected [refund] bank products during their most recent tax filing,”. “We are directing clients to Get My Payment to find their payment status, type and whether the IRS needs more information, including bank account information.”

A spokeswoman for Online service  has all the bank account information for its customers who received tax refunds electronically.

“They have created confusion by not always using clients’ final destination bank account information for stimulus payments,”, a spokeswoman for the company. “We share our clients’ frustration that many of them have not yet received these much-needed payments due to IRS decisions, and we are actively working with the IRS to get stimulus payments sent directly to client accounts.”

The issue does highlight the need for more consumer awareness before taking these refund deals, which can come with fees as high as $35 to $45 as well as a $200 to $300 tax preparation fee.

While some tax preparers explicitly point out that the fees are bank products and how much they cost, others don’t, Wu said. Consequently, many people may not even realize they  have been charged.

 

Do I Get a Stimulus Check?

The first checks started going out the week of April 13, 2020. The Department of Treasury’s new portal, Get My Payment, opened on April 15 and announced significant enhancements April 26 to deliver an “improved and smoother experience.” Use it to track the following information, according to the IRS :

  • Your payment status
  • Your payment type
  • Your expected payment date
  • Whether the IRS needs more information from you, including bank account information.

 

Myths About the Stimulus Payment

Rumors are flying fast and furious, as are scammers. Keep the following myths in mind as you prepare to receive your payment—or examine your account once it arrives.

Myth #1: I will have to declare my payment as income for 2020.

Stimulus checks are not taxable. They are considered refundable tax credits and therefore not subject to income tax.2

Myth #2: If my 2020 income is higher than in 2019, I will have to pay money back.

While it’s true that your stimulus check is calculated based on your 2018 or 2019 tax return and is intended as a refundable tax credit for 2020, if your 2020 income is higher than in the year used to calculate your stimulus payment, you do not have to pay back the difference.2

Myth #3: If my 2020 income is lower than in 2019, I won’t get the difference.

If your 2020 income is lower than in 2019 in a way that means you would have qualified for a larger stimulus check than you received, you can apply for the difference when you file your 2020 taxes in 2021.2

Myth #4: Any refund I receive in 2020 will be reduced by the amount of this stimulus payment.

The stimulus is a refundable tax credit, not a regular refund. Your refund for tax year 2020 will not be affected by the stimulus payment.2

Myth #5: If my dependent child turns 17 in 2020, I have to give that money back.

The rules state that the dependent child must be under the age of 17 at the end of 2019. So long as that is true, it doesn’t matter that your child turns 17 in 2020.3

Myth #6: If I did not claim my under-17 child as a dependent in 2019, I will not get the $500 payment for that child.

While you will probably not receive the dependent payment now, any child or children, including a baby born this year, you claim on your 2020 taxes will be eligible for the $500 payment when you file your 2020 taxes in 2021.

How To Deal With Dui Lawyer

Posted on by Legal

What questions should I ask a DUI lawyer?

Whether you were caught driving with a high blood alcohol content (BAC) or arrested for being too impaired by prescription drugs to safely operate a motor vehicle, driving under the influence (DUI) charges are taken very seriously by the court system. Penalties are generally two-fold: both criminal and administrative (you get your license taken away in addition to fines and a possible jail sentence). But you don’t have to go through the process alone. A good DUI lawyer will be able to help you understand the law, the facts of your case, and any potential defenses that may be available to you.

Background

One of the most important sets of questions to ask your attorney concerns their background. For example, is this her first case or is she a DUI veteran? Obviously, the more experienced the attorney, the higher the possibility for a better outcome. Here are a few questions to ask your DUI lawyer:

  • How long have you been representing DUI clients? How many DUI cases do you handle in a year?
  • Are you a former DUI prosecutor? (Many times former prosecutors open their own criminal defense practice).
  • What percentage of your caseload is devoted to DUIs?
  • How often to you take cases to trial?
  • Are you familiar with the prosecutor in my case? Do you normally practice in my county?
  • How many cases have you been able to successfully plea bargain down to a “wet reckless” or outright dismissal?

Special Training

Many times a DUI attorney will have specialized training or an advanced certification in DUI law. You might ask:

  • Have you ever been on a DUI ride-along with a police officer?
  • Are you certified by any DUI organizations such as the The National College for DUI Defense (NCDD) or similar state bar organization? Some states, such as Arizona, have a program where attorneys can get certified as a “DUI specialist” if they pass certain tests.
  • Have you completed the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA) Student and/or Instructor Standardized Field Sobriety Test courses?

Fees

Right away, you’ll want to know how your DUI attorney will be billing you. Now is the time to ask about payment options and how often, and under what circumstances, you will be billed. Most DUI lawyers offer a free initial consultation, but be sure to clarify payment terms before your first meeting. You may also want to ask the following:

  • In addition to your standard rate, are there any extra fees I will be required to pay, such as expert witness fees, blood sample re-testing, etc?
  • What forms of payment do you accept? (Some lawyers now offer peer-to-peer payment services such as PayPal, Google Wallet, VenMo, or Square Cash.)

 

Don’t Waste Any Time

After being arrested for a DUI, you should talk to an attorney right away, even if your first court date is a ways off. Defendants often need to act quickly to protect their rights. In addition to representing you, an attorney can tell you what to do in the short term.

For example, an attorney might advise that you immediately get into substance abuse treatment or start going to Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings. And there’s typically a deadline (usually 10 days or shorter) for challenging or postponing the suspension of your license by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) (or equivalent state agency). A DUI attorney should be able to tell you how long you have and what you need to do to challenge the suspension.

Choosing the Right Attorney

There are lots of attorneys who handle DUI cases, so the process of picking the right one can be overwhelming. Below are some suggestions that might help you with your search.

 

What are the best, worst and most likely outcomes I can expect for my case?

No attorney can promise a best-case scenario; however, your prospective attorney should be able to provide you with a likely outcome based on his/her experience with cases similar to yours in the same jurisdiction.In addition to providing you with courtroom scenarios, he/she should be able to help you get back on the road legally, as quickly and easily as possible. Regaining driving privileges may include having an Ignition Interlock device installed in your vehicle. Your attorney should be knowledgeable about Ignition Interlock devices and be able to advise you on where to get one and what you can expect while having the device installed.

What is the attorney’s client communication policy? Attorneys are often in court and unable to return messages right away, sometimes leading to client frustration. Ask the attorney’s policy on returning messages and also they best way to reach him/her.  Many attorneys work late hours and can return an email quicker than a phone call.

 

Why are you better versed to handle my case than another attorney?

An attorney may practice “criminal defense,” but maybe he’s more versed in domestic abuse or traffic citations. If you have a pending DUI trial and your attorney hasn’t handled a many DUI cases, he’s probably not a good fit. Ask your attorney why they are better prepared to fight your case than the average attorney. Do they have any specialized training in drunk driving laws? Are they familiar with all the legal processes that encompass your situation? Have you handled similar cases before? If so, how did it turn out? These are all probing questions that can help you answer your original question. Remember, you are hiring an attorney, but they are acting as your representation. If the attorney doesn’t seem like he’s willing to go the extra mile for you, look elsewhere.

 

How to you see my case playing out?

This won’t be one you’ll be able to ask within five minutes of sitting down with your attorney, but it’s definitely a question you should ask by the end of the consultation. Once your attorney hears your side of what went down, he’ll be able to give you a general idea of what to expect. This is why it’s very important to be open and honest when speaking with your attorney. Hiding certain facts or telling half truths will only serve to hurt your case. Again, your attorney isn’t going to be able to give you a specific outlook – once you hire him he’ll be reviewing witness testimony, police reports, dash cam videos and legal statutes – because he doesn’t yet know the best way to fight your case. That said, he should be able to give you an idea of what to expect from your DUI arrest.

What Are the Benefits Of Getting Professional Party Planner

Posted on by Events

How do party planners make money?

Everything You Need to Know To Earn More as an Event Planner

Being an event planner can be a fun and exciting job where you get to meet new and interesting people. You can also be working long hours without much sleep. You should get paid what you deserve for the amount of work you do. Here are some suggestions to make what you deserve for the incredible amount of time you put into your career.

Event Planner Skills That Will Increase Your Pay

  • Be knowledgeable about trends

Many people will want the latest and newest trends incorporated into their events. You should be knowledgeable about fashion, music, design, and other trends. A bride will not want to walk down the aisle in last year’s gown. Be online and get subscriptions to designer magazines to up your game and know what everyone will want in the coming months.

  • Be Organized

A quick way to lose money is to be unorganized. You have to be on top of everything going on with your event. What time is the DJ getting there? When is the photographer coming? Where are you ordering the flowers and how much is a good price? You should be able to know at the flick of a finger what is happening when and where. Calendars and reminders are an absolute must in the event planning industry.

  • Have a large network

The larger your network the better your event. You want to have as many florists, djs, bands, designers, and others in order to plan the best events. Get in touch with someone who has wedding dance lessons. Being able to offer dance lessons as part of your package will make you more desirable to your clients. Make sure the people in your network are reliable and are organized. You want to have confidence in the people you are working with.

Event Planner Career Path Choices That Will Increase Your Pay

  • Get Your Hospitality Degree

Whether you have an Associates or a Bachelors in Hospitality you will have acquired the skills you need to boost your event planner career. A hospitality degree will help you with being organized, building your business, networking, and more.

  • Take a Public Speaking Course

As an event planner, you will not be giving many speeches, but you may need to be able to speak to people at some events. If this is the case, you do not want your job to be your first exposure to public speaking. A public speaking class will boost your confidence and make networking and talking to your clients easier.

  • Marketing Degree

You can help yourself now and in the future by getting a Bachelor’s in Marketing. This will help you keep up with the latest trends and show you how to do more for your client. This degree will help you interact with people and learn how to business-speak in the event planner world.

 

Event Planner Fee Structure

Whether you’re starting an event planning business for social events, business events or a combination of both, you should know how to charge for services.

Several factors go into determining your rate, including event planning and operating expenses, salaries, and profits. Rates vary based on where you operate your business, types of projects you take on, and what the market is willing to pay.

Ways Event Planners Structure Their Fees

If you want to start a part-time or even full-time business, there are roughly five ways to structure your event fee and quote your fees to your clients:

  • Flat project fee
  • Percentage of expenses
  • Hourly rate
  • Percentage of expenses plus an hourly rate
  • Commissionable rates

 

Other important items related to pricing:

Receiving deposits – We recommend you receive a 30 – 50% non-refundable deposit at the time of signing the contract. And the remaining portion two weeks prior to the event.

Consultation fee – Planners often ask if they should charge a fee for the initial consultation. If you are just starting out, we do not recommend charging a consultation fee but if you are more experienced, we like this rule of thumb –

Consultations are free within 10 miles of where you live. Beyond that charge a $45 – 75 fee and put it toward a signed contract. Remember that if you don’t charge a consultation fee then don’t give out specific vendor information. Sometimes clients try to fish for vendor, venue and theme ideas only to end up going with a different planner. You don’t want this to happen to you. Here’s a line you can use to offset giving specific vendor contact information prior to a signed agreement or consultation fee – “I work with a myriad of wedding vendors that provide nothing less than excellent service. If you would like to engage our services, I would be more than happy to get the right vendors involved.”

Decor charges – if you also do elaborate decor for the event you can charge extra for it. If you do not view decor as an extra specialty you offer then just charge for your planning services as usual.

 

Explore the Factors to Consider to Set the Right Event Planning Business Prices

  1. Understand your event planning business

Understanding your business is the first thing you need to know in order to understand how much to charge for your services. You have to consider the type of clientele you have, and the type of clients you would like to have. Is your focus wedding planning, or would you rather focus on corporate events? These distinctions will help you understand your client make-up and give you clues as to what or how much to charge for your services.

  1. Track the time you spend planning events

Make sure to track all of your time spent on the full process when planning an event. Don’t forget the people who are also working for you. It is important that they track their time as well. Tracking time will help you to find out how much of your time you are investing, and help you allocate a dollar amount for your services.

  1. Know your event expenses and investments inside and out

Make sure that you are tracking your expenses and investments in regards to your business. This can be everything from maintenance equipment to expenses for your event. When you have a good perspective on how much it takes to run your business on a daily, monthly, and annual basis, it can help to provide that base amount for charging for services.

  1. Evaluate your event business profit levels

Usually, if you are a business owner or a solo entrepreneur you want to make sure you are receiving some type of profit for the events that you do. Calculate the percentage of profit that will be comfortable for you and your clients to adhere to. Evaluate your profit margins every year to offset the changes in the cost of living and expenses.

  1. Use this basic formula to figure out your event planning cost

Yes, high school was over with a while ago for me, however, there is a basic formula that you should always keep in your back pocket. The formula is for calculating profit:

Sales – Cost of Goods Sold = Gross Profit

(Selling Price – Cost to Produce) / Cost to Produce = Markup Percentage

This percentage along with others here at Entrepreneur.com will help you with making some of the base calculations for your business.

  1. Factor in the most common ways of charging for events

Many event planners get caught up on how to charge for their business. Below are three common ways that event planning agencies charge for their services. Keeping in mind that some of these are used in combination and are based on what is best for that particular business.

  • Per person
  • Per hour
  • Flat fee
  • A la carte
  1. Clearly communicate your event services charges

After you figure out your formula and how you will be charging for your event. Make sure to have those prices available for internal use. You might even want to consider having prices also available for external use too. Many businesses do not distribute pricing and evaluate each case separately, and provide a catered proposal their client based on each unique event. Whatever the case may be, make sure to communicate pricing in a clear and concise manner. If you find you will have to place your pricing within a contract, make sure everything is laid out even the fine print associated with any line item if applicable.

 

Remember that when you’re in a service business you’re selling your time.

You have a limited “inventory” of time. You can’t manufacture more hours in a week and the only way to earn more is to charge more for your time. You will never make money as an event planner until you get your pricing strategy right and charge for the time it takes to plan an event.

Wonderful Tips And Tricks To Choose Reliable Packers And Office Movers

Posted on by Movers

Tips for planning a successful office relocation!

Most people do not like the hassle of relocating a business, even if it means the new location will provide better facilities. But with proper planning, moving offices can be done efficiently, on a budget, and with minimal disruptions to employees, clients, and everyday business operations. Take these steps to ensure your office relocation is successful.

Get Organized and Assess Your Needs

An organized office move will pay off in terms of cost and time savings and will minimize productivity losses. To help you stay organized, develop a checklist of everything you need for a smooth relocation. Consider some of the following questions you need to answer: Who do you need to communicate to and by when? What assets and infrastructure will you move to the new office? Who will be in charge of different phases of the moving process? Given that moving offices has a significant impact on your business, it is important to measure the success of your move. Establish criteria for measuring business performance, employee productivity and satisfaction, and costs during the move. A professional mover can work with your team to develop an office relocation strategy that can save your company money.

Develop an Office Relocation Timeline Early

Ideally, you should start planning your move 12 to 18 months before your lease expires, especially if you have a medium to large business. Once you start planning, set up an office moving timeline indicating key dates and milestones that will guide your move. Your timeline should plan for meetings with employees, communication with key stakeholders, packing content, disconnecting IT infrastructure, storage plans, and and moving dates. Such a timeline not only directs your office relocation, but it also makes it easier for the moving company to understand and meet your needs.

 

Involve employees in the process.

Involving your people in the process not only helps you assess needs, but gives them an outlet to express their concerns and desires for the new space. This kind of involvement is critical if employees will be undergoing comprehensive change during the move – for instance having to work in new ways. Training early and helping people understand the “why” of new modalities will help ease the transition. Here are a few ideas for including employees in the process;

  • Share a floorplan and let people comment on the proposed designs
  • Create a contest to choose a final color palette, limit it to three options
  • Involve employees in surveys to asses needs on collaboration, privacy or mobility
  • Conduct workshops that get people talking about their likes/dislikes in the office
  • Invite participation in tours to the new space
  • Create a booklet that explains the design intent and protocols behind each space

Communication is key.

Communicate regularly from the minute you know you are moving and don’t stop until you know that everyone is settled and all punch list items are dealt with. Early on, people want to understand the issues at stake and understand the rationale behind decisions. Throughout, a regular schedule of communication will help mitigate fears, give people time to process change and achieve buy-in from the majority. We highly recommend including pictures and videos of the new space as it develops to build excitement.

 

Conduct Regular Meetings

In your schedule, set regular meetings to discuss the move and its progress with all employees. It is important to keep everyone informed and to make time to address employee concerns and comments. Moving is stressful for everyone involved and can be more stressful if decisions are not adequately communicated.

Assign Tasks

Have your moving team create a list of tasks that need to be completed in the weeks before you move, and make sure critical tasks are added to the timeline/schedule. Ask each department manager or supervisor what is required from their area, which may include specialty service providers, such as telephone line installers or computer network specialists. Also make sure that common areas are covered, such as the reception area, lobby, and storage spaces.

 

Hire Security

Employ a security guard to monitor sensitive items, like classified documents or computers. A security guard also can be hired to watch for suspicious street-level activity as the relocation occurs. Doors will be propped open, and computers may be left unattended for brief spurts during the relocation event.

The security guard should be given a list of authorized personnel who are allowed into the new facility as well as into the existing one during the move.

 

Hire Professionals

You should find out the phone/power/internet capabilities of your new location and determine if they will meet your company’s needs. If not you will need to hire an IT consultant or talk with your current providers to find out what options you have. Moving into a new location may require a technician to set up new lines or hardware. Determine what will need to be done as soon as possible and give yourself enough time to have this done. When you are making arrangements look into other service options for your power and internet as this is a good chance to change plans to save money.

You should also start shopping for quotes from professional moving companies early on. There are many local and long distance moving companies that specialize in full-service moving for businesses. Gather price quotes from at least three different moving companies and review their online standings and Moving Authority ratings before coming to a decision. When asking for quotes moving companies should offer to have a relocation consultant come out to visit your office and offer their advise as well as a price quote. Ask plenty of questions and provide as many details as you can to determine if the company offers the right service for your move.