Building Construction and Home Improvement

If you are in search of an eye health services provider it is absolutely essential that you know what professional supplies the right services for your unique vision issues.

There are three main types of specialists that provide eye care services and each has a different skillset devoted to ensuring that your vision is restored and protected. These health professionals provide a number of different eye care options – and may also have specializations. The three professional providers are ophthalmologists, optometrists, and opticians.

Let’s take a closer look at what each one of these eye care health providers offers.

Firstly there are ophthalmologists. These professionals usually have degrees in medicine or in ste3opthy. They specialize in providing medical care and surgical options for a variety of eye issues. Medical doctors provide disease-specific diagnosis and treatment, while osteopaths focus on disease and how a condition can affect the structure and function of various parts of the body.

An ophthalmologist will boast extensive medical training and is certified by various Boards (including state regulatory Boards) to provide diagnostic services, as well as treatment and management of medical conditions that affect the visual system as a whole and in particular, the eye. Their studies include pre-med undergraduate degrees, four years of medical training at an institution of higher learning, then a minimum of three years of study with a specialization in eye care (medical and surgical).

These professionals will advise and treat such conditions as diabetes that cause damage to the eyes and vision. The treatment options can include surgery and other medical interventions. They will also provide eye examinations.

Optometrists are specialized doctors of optometry. In common with the ophthalmologist, they are also trained in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of diseases and conditions that adversely affect the eye, and subsequently vision. They will also undergo undergraduate training and four years of education, often at a college that focuses on optometry. The major difference between the training and that of ophthalmologists is that they will not attend medical school. They may also undertake education in a specialized area during a one-year period of residency.

Often their training will allow them to focus on conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, and other diseases affecting the vision. They will also provide diagnosis and treatment of common eye-related disorders such as near and farsightedness and astigmatism. They will also test a patient’s ability to focus and distinguish colors. They do not perform surgery. Treatments such as vision therapy, glasses, and contact lenses are often recommended, as are medications for the treatment of various eye conditions.

Opticians often work very closely with both ophthalmologists and optometrists. They assist these professionals with long-term care after treatment, as well as before and during procedures to current conditions affecting the eye. they tend to focus on the provision of visual aids such as glasses and contact lenses. Opticians focus on the diagnosis of conditions affecting the quality of sight – and the interpretation of prescriptions.

Patients need to take a proactive stance toward selecting their individual eye care service provider. Make sure that the professional that you choose has the appropriate qualifications and is both certified and licensed to work in your state. The more experienced that your chosen professional is the better the acre that they can provide. Make sure that they are up to date with the latest developments in the field of eye care – and not be afraid to ask questions.

With some research and a knowledge of which professional will provide you with the best care, you should soon be well n your journey to enjoying the benefits of great eye health.

Dr. Susan Sloan

Dr. Susan M Sloan is an Optometrist in Sarasota FL, who has been committed to providing professional, personal eye care to adult and children for over 30 years.

How do professional dog trainers conduct K9 Training? Training dogs is a complicated process. It requires skills and knowledge to effectively handle unwanted dog behaviors. Many pet owners have attempted to train their dogs themselves but ended up paying for professional dog training services because they couldn’t get it right. Almost always, their dog training endeavors ended up in disappointment and frustration. True enough, if you don’t possess the knowledge and skills to train dogs, you’re better off hiring a professional trainer.

You have to understand that not all dogs are the same. Even if they have the same breed, yes, they may share some similarities in terms of behavior, but generally, a dog’s personality is unique just like in humans. Lucky for you, some of the most popular dog training experts have shared tips that you will find useful to keep your dog from misbehaving. However, these tips do not replace professional dog training classes. So, if you want your dog to behave well and to follow commands we still believe that enrolling your dog in dog training classes is the best way to go.

Tip Number 1: Barking

All dogs bark, that’s a given. Since they can’t talk, barking is their way of communicating with humans and other animals. Unfortunately, some dogs bark too much. This excessive barking can be annoying. Is it possible to train your dog to stop barking? The answer is yes. According to dog training experts, the easiest method to stop a dog from barking excessively is to reward them when they are not barking. Easy, right? This method of training is called positive reinforcement. When you train your dog this way, it’s easier if you have a clicker. A clicker is a small device that makes a constant sound when you press it.

However, using the clicker method is only useful if your dog underwent clicker training because your dog needs to associate the sound with a treat. Whenever you click the clicker you should immediately hand your dog the treat. Do this several times until your dog gives all of its attention to you whenever it hears the clicking sound.

To stop the barking you’ll have to create a scenario. For example, if the ringing of the doorbell triggers your dog to bark, you must press the clicker and give your dog a treat even before they start to bark. When your dark barks after hearing the doorbell, withhold the treats. Don’t be angry, just stay neutral. When your dog is being attentive again and is no longer barking, you can click on the clicker and give the treat. Repeat until your dog learns that not barking when the doorbell is rung means it will receive a treat. This tip is from Stephanie Mantilla, a Positive Animal Trainer and Enrichment Specialist.

Tip Number 2: Jumping on People

Jumping is another natural behavior of dogs and they usually do it when they want to greet you. Jumping is a non-issue for pet owners but for guests and other family members, it can be a nuisance. As a pet owner, it is your responsibility to teach your dog not to jump on people. To do this, you must set an example for your dog. Let your dog know that jumping on you is considered inappropriate. If you continue to let your dog jump on you, it will think that jumping on others is okay.

Training your dog to stop jumping starts by completely ignoring your dog until it stops. Don’t touch your dog and don’t talk to it until it’s finally settled. When your dog is calm, initiate the greeting by getting down to its level and just simply say hello. When your dog isn’t jumping, give your dog a reward. Again, this is positive reinforcement. This tip is from Karen Reese who is a Fear Free Certified Animal Trainer.

Takeaway

The best way to set your dog up for success is to give your dog a treat when it does something good and withhold a treat if it starts misbehaving. We do not encourage punishment since it’s counterproductive. Why hurt your dog when you can simply train them through the use of treats? It’s only a matter of time before they understand what you’re trying to teach them. Keep in mind that for training to be successful, you have to be consistent. Spend each day training your dog in short durations to keep them entertained. Repeat until they master the command. You should only advance the training when your dog has already mastered previous basic commands.

Nick White

Nick White is the owner of Off Leash K9 Training. He has over 80 dog training franchise locations throughout the United States. He currently hosts the A&E show, America's Top Dog.

Frozen grounds during winter pose a lot of setbacks for many businesses. People in the construction industry suffer the most as they have to go through hassles to complete their tasks. Ice can be stubborn as it increases density. However, by using ground heaters to thaw it, you can eliminate it. Ground heaters work conveniently to remove this ice hence making it impossible to undertake any ground activities. These devices come in two distinct versions, hydronic heaters and ground thawing blankets.

Ground Thawing Blanket.

Ground-thawing blankets utilize a source of electricity with a heating blankest to achieve this goal. The few items make it quite affordable and also portable. The heating blanket comes in varying sizes depending on the area you want to be covered within a given period. The topmost part features an insulated structure that traps the heat. Keeping the blanket warm for an extended period is also simple and user-friendly, thus minimal requirements. To remove the ice, spread out the blanket on the designated area within the site. Plug it into a reliable source of electricity. The electricity will power the heating elements within the blanket and consequently melt the ice away.

Hydronic heater.

Hydronic heaters are the second option, and they feature an array of items, including a blower fan, insulated blankets, boiler, hose, vapor barrier, and a mixture of propylene glycol. It is imperative to use some professional assistance in the initial installation process. Otherwise, a simple mistake jeopardizes the entire heating process. First, lay out the hose in loops to cover the entire area with ice. The function of the boiler is to heat the glycol mixture thoroughly. The process results in the production of heat. Once the maximum heating gets achieved, pump the hot mixture into the hoses till it reaches the other end. The hose will, in turn, produce hot air. The blower effectively spreads the hot air through the entire location and thus thaws the ground. Utilize the vapor barrier to keep the hot air within the location. Any open place can result in the air escaping, which interferes with the efficiency of the procedure. Cover the vapor using the insulated blanket to ensure there is the retention of sufficient heat in the site. Using the hydronic heater is quite complicated, but it is safer and bears better results. The approach is flameless, eliminating any safety risks.

Both methods are effective for thawing ice on the ground. Each approach has both limitations and benefits. However, you must consider which of them is suitable for our kind of set up. The insulating blankets require minimum expertise, while the hydronic pump needs you to follow through the steps. Nevertheless, it is safer to use the simplest and most effective as per your needs and preferences. Before you decide on the option, you must first have an in-depth understanding of your situation. How much ice do you have at hand? There are different sizes of ground heaters, all suitable for specific dimensions. If you choose a smaller heater for a larger area, the result is nothing but time and power wastage. Check on the amount of power it has. Sometimes you will require the machine to run overnight to commence your job in the morning. Its capability determines how the machine will serve you. Last, check on the temperature of the ground. It will guide you further on the ideal choice for your needs.

You can either rent or buy a ground heater, depending on your needs. The purchasing prices vary hugely depending on several factors. Well, buying is more economical as you can become a renter unless you have short-term goals.

Herman Post

Herman Post is the owner of Heat-n-Go, which provides complete managed temporary heat services to the construction industry - removing frost in days, curing concrete or protection from deep freeze.

How long does a commercial hvac las vegas last? This is probably one of the most asked questions in the HVAC industry. Property managers and building owners are concerned about the life expectancy of these units because they don’t come cheap. Typically, the average lifespan of an HVAC unit is between 5 to 20 years. How long it lasts will depend on how well you maintain them. It’s important to know what kind of maintenance your unit needs because not all HVAC systems are built and designed the same. If you fail to maintain the HVAC system you can expect to replace it in 5 years instead of 20.

Here are a few tips to prolong the lifespan of your HVAC unit.

Apply Proper Maintenance As Advised By Your Unit’s Manufacturer

Whenever you purchase a commercial heating and cooling system, the salesperson assigned to you will always emphasize the need for proper maintenance. Proper maintenance is synonymous with preventive maintenance. This is a type of maintenance that is done regularly even if your HVAC is working fine. Basically, it involves changing your unit’s air filter and cleaning the internal and external parts of the system including the air ducts. Regular maintenance also means your HVAC professional will inspect your unit and check to see if there are parts that are already worn, need repair, or replacing. With proper maintenance, HVAC experts will be able to detect problems and repair them early on before they totally damage your unit.

Don’t Do Improper HVAC Maintenance

Is there such a thing as improper HVAC maintenance? Apparently, there is. Another term for improper HVAC maintenance is run-to-failure maintenance. This simply means that maintenance is only performed when your HVAC system is no longer working. Unfortunately, if you choose this type of maintenance thinking that it’s saving you money, you are wrong because, in reality, it’s dramatically cutting your HVAC system’s life expectancy short. It will also result in costly repair bills. Sometimes the cost can be so high that you’re better off getting a new unit.

One example is an HVAC unit that blows off warm air during the summer. If this happens, you know your HVAC is having problems. The source of the problem could be a wrong thermostat setting or a coolant leak. If you continue to use your unit despite it releasing warm air you are doing improper maintenance and it wouldn’t take long before your unit will completely shut down. Proper maintenance involves turning the system off so that it won’t create more damage and then calling an expert HVAC technician to diagnose and make necessary repairs.

Can Your HVAC Unit Really Last Up To 20 Years?

The moment you purchase your HVAC unit we’re sure you’re expecting it to last for years. All buyers expect the same thing. However, it will only the last long with proper HVAC maintenance. To make sure your unit will perform as designed you must have it inspected at least once or twice a year ideally in fall or spring. Inspections are encouraged before the start of summer or before the start of winter. You should also set aside a budget for unexpected repairs. When you notice something is wrong with your HVAC system, have it checked and repaired ASAP. Don’t wait for your unit to completely shut off.

Takeaway

If you want to make your HVAC system last long you need to make investments. This means you need to pay for regular preventive maintenance and shell out cash for repairs if your unit starts acting out. Not doing anything will only worsen the problem and lead to more expensive repairs in the long run.

Michael Hope

Michael Hope is the founder of M&K Heating and Cooling Services. Michael’s experience has always been in the mechanical fields. In 1991, Michael moved to Nevada to work at the Nevada Test Site in the drilling operations for the nuclear testing facilities. After the Nuclear test treaty was signed in 1992, Michael retrained in the HVAC/R field and has been doing it since. Michael is currently NATE (North American Technical Excellence) certified. This is the only nationally recognized certification in the HVAC field.

Kitchen countertops are the main focus points of any kitchen design. This is mainly because countertops occupy a large portion of kitchen space, budget, and used in almost all kitchen tasks in the kitchen. However, before investing in a kitchen countertop, you have to locate the best on the market. Therefore, the million-dollar question is, what makes a good countertop? Well, if you do research, you will find that Kitchen countertop maintenance is a characteristic of a good countertop.

There is a wide variety of countertop design, price tag, and most definitely different material in San Antonio. You will get kitchen countertops made of:

• Wood – Wood countertops are not only attractive but a great option for meal preparation. However, after a few weeks, one must treat them with mineral oils and do not handle heat very well.

• Concrete- Concrete countertops are smooth and appear polished. However, they are heavy and very hard to maintain.

• Marble – Marble concretes are the most beautiful. However, they stain easily.

• Metal – Metal countertops scratch easily and do not match a majority of kitchen designs.

Well, out of all, which ones are the easiest to maintain? Of course, you do not want to purchase a countertop that you will spend hours cleaning every week.

1. Quartz Kitchen Countertops

When it comes to maintenance, Quartz countertops are king. Quartz countertop is a type of countertop made from engineered stones; generally, a combination of stone chips and resin. It is important to note that quartz does not look like natural stones but can withstand all kinds of abuse, such as sharp knives, hot pots, red wine spills, etc. Let not forget that they are waterproof and, therefore, cannot be damaged by water even when it is close to the sink like other countertop options.

2. Laminated Kitchen Countertops

Laminate countertops are not only affordable but also easy to maintain. These countertops come in various colors and patterns, which makes them flexible to accommodate different kitchen designs. Since this type of countertop is an example of a solid surface countertop, they are non-porous and can be cleaned easily with soap and sponge. Furthermore, they do not require refinishing even after extensive use. It will not cost you much to replace them.

3. Soapstone Kitchen Countertops

Soapstone countertops are well known for their excellent durability. Furthermore, cleaning is relatively easy because they are resistant to bacteria, stain, heat, or normal wear and tear. Cleaning is easy and can be done with water, soap, and a sponge. Soapstone countertops are crafted from real quarried stone and made from magnetite, chlorite, and dolomite. Another benefit of soapstone counters is that they can complement any kitchen design.

Although these types of countertops are not as hard as granite varieties, they are still flexible. As such, they do not unexpectedly crack or break when you place heavy items on it.

4. Crushed Glass Kitchen Countertops

This type of countertop is relatively new and made from recycled glass and clear resin. This is why they are also known as crushed glass countertops. The same kind of material used in producing these kinds of countertops is the same as producing solid surface countertops. As such, the finishing is smooth and non-porous. This makes them resistant to mold, bacteria, heat, and stain. These are what makes cleaning easy or hassle-free.

These countertops are very attractive and come in different patterns and colors. The best part is that they do not need polishing or sealing and hence needing low maintenance.

5. Zinc Kitchen Countertops

If you love metal countertops, then you should consider zinc countertops. That is because unlike aluminum or stainless steel countertops, zinc is very easy to maintain. It is heat resistant, bacteria, or mildew. They are popularly used in the hospitality industry. In other words, they are mostly used in hotel kitchens, mainly because cleaning is easy and highly resistant to bacteria and mold.

Jason Goldblum

Jason Goldblum is the owner of AGS Granite and has always had a great passion for design, cooking and innovation. He started AGS Granite in 2007 and has been going strong ever since, specializing in stone countertop Fabrication and Installation.

Our drains help greatly with the function of our home. We depend on them for most of everything when it comes to hygiene, cooking, and taking care of bodily function. When they aren’t in working order, our home is unlivable. Luckily, there are many highly qualified plumbers when you go to https://www.sosdrainservices.ca/. You need to get your home back into working order. This won’t happen if you sit around doing nothing. In fact, the problem will only get worse. Material tends to build up on themselves and create an even bigger block than it once was. Whether you have the energy and know how to do it yourself, or want to hire a professional plumber, it’s a job that has to get done quickly. Here are some quick tips to help you unclog your drains:

A Bent Wire Hanger

We don’t all have money for a tun of supplies. Having a tool on hand that most people already have in their homes certainly does the trick. A bent wire hanger can be especially useful if you have hair in a clogged bath or shower drain. Women with long hair often clog the drain quickly. We shed over 100 hairs a day. This can add up. All you have to do is take a regular wire hanger you use to hang up your clothing. You need to bend one end of it to create a strong hook. You should be able to slip it through the drain and get all the gunk and hair out after a couple swoops.

Boiling Water

This is one of the easiest methods to unclog a drain quickly. Most organic solids dissolve in water. Take a microwavable container, fill it with water, and then microwave it until it is at boiling temperature. Pour it gently down the drain.

Getting A Drain Snake

A drain snake is a great option with toilet clogs. It’s a long, wire, rope that works deeply to break up the material that’s clogging your toilet. It’s best to look up a video on how to use it if you plan to do it yourself. There may be directions on the product when it is bought. Many people find hiring a professional plumber to be the best option in this situation.

Dish Detergent

Dish detergent is designed to break up organic material. That’s why it works so well when we’re doing the dishes. It gets those pancake batter smudges off our bowls to make it so we can cook the next batch. With liquid dish detergent, you can pour a cup in the toilet and it will break down some of the organic material that’s clogging it up.

What Acid Do Plumbers Use To Unclog Drains?

If you’re going to use the chemical method, you might as well use what the professionals use. It’s one of the fastest ways to unclog a toilet or other drain in a lot of situations. Most plumbers use the chemical muriatic acid. It’s a hydrochloric solution that breaks down organic material quickly. If using it yourself, be careful when handling the product. Most find it more comfortable to just allow a plumber to do the job. They are able to fix the problem quickly and safely with expert use.

Getting A Plumber

You should always call a professional when the problem can’t be solved after one try. There is probably a deeper issue or the problem is just beyond what you can do for it. Some choose to hire a plumber the first time, because they simple don’t want to mess with the issue. Consider contacting SOS Drain Services. Have them complete your plumbing needs quickly.

SOS Drain Services

SOS Drain Services is a Calgary drain cleaning and clog removal specialist, providing prompt, affordable drain cleaning to both residential and commercial clients since 1992.
SOS Drain Services
4544 14 St NE4544 14 St NE
Calgary, AB T2E 6T7, Canada

If you’re looking for a Rittenhouse Square apartment rental, then you’re reading the right post. There are many factors you need to carefully think about when looking for an apartment since the apartment you choose will have a significant impact on your lifestyle. So, we will now look at a few tips on how to find a great apartment that will be best suited to your needs.

Now, when looking for an apartment, it is best to use different methods simultaneously to save time. This means that you should not only look in the newspaper’s classified ads but also on local real estate websites, local real estate social media groups, local community forums etc. If these methods don’t work, you should even consider hiring a real estate agent to find a great Rittenhouse Square apartment on your behalf. As a matter of fact, a real estate agent is the best option if you don’t have time to manually look for an apartment as they will do all the searching for you. They will consider your budget, type of apartment you want, desired features etc. Additionally, they will work with the landlord to secure the leasing agreement with the least amount of hassle on your end.

However, even if you do decide to hire a real estate agent, you still need to be clear on what type of apartment you want. For example, you should think about how much space you need now and how much space you will need in the future. So, if you plan to live in this apartment for many years and you are going to start a family, then you will need to ensure that there are enough bedrooms for your growing family. Even if you don’t intend to expand your family, you also need to consider whether you would want an aging parent or other family member to move in with you. By carefully considering these issues, you will be able to determine the best size of apartment to rent.

Next, you should think about the features you want in the apartment. For example, if you enjoy cooking or simply want to have a large and modern kitchen, then you need to be clear on this. Many apartments have small kitchens, so you would definitely want to eliminate those from your search. Also, if you plan on spending a lot of time in your apartment, you should consider if you would prefer one with a nice view or if that doesn’t matter. Also, if you want to work from home, then an apartment with an office space would also be highly desirable.

In addition to the features that you want in the apartment, you should also think about the amenities that you want to have nearby. So, if you don’t have a vehicle, then you should look for an apartment that is near to a transport hub where you can easily access transport any time of the day or night. Also, if you have kids, then the apartment should be relatively close to schools, hospitals, malls, groceries, parks etc.

Now, you may have a good idea of a particular area that you want to get an apartment rental in, but you can’t find any listings online or your agent can’t find one. One option is to simply visit the desired neighborhood every few weeks and look for signs saying “for rent” or even “for sale”. Once you see these, you can go and talk to the owner and strike a deal. This is a great method to quickly find apartments that have not been listed as yet and can help you to quickly get an amazing apartment at an affordable rental price.

To wrap things up, we have just looked at how to find a great Rittenhouse Square apartment rental as well as the factors you need to consider when looking for one. So, be sure to pay close attention to the points discussed above and you will definitely be able to find a fantastic Rittenhouse Square apartment in no time.

Nancy Alperin

Nancy Alperin of Maxwell Realty has not only a keen understanding of real estate, but a genuine passion for it. She believes in garnering client respect by listening to their needs and delivering results for them.

Her in-depth knowledge of the Philadelphia real estate market plus her ability to broker complicated deals with infinite finesse enable her to navigate the challenging elements of buying, selling or leasing properties while making it all appear seamless. This is also strengthened by her years of owning, buying and selling for her own portfolio.

Committed to the health and longevity of her father's company, Nancy has helped Maxwell Realty Company, Inc. achieve its reputation for unparalleled service as well as for being an innovative and rewarding work environment for its associates.

How protected is your property? And by that we mean how sure are you that the architectural design of your building complies with state and federal laws regarding accessibility standards? If it doesn’t pass the standards you are putting your business at risk of a lawsuit for violating ADA (American Disabilities Act) guidelines and ADA architectural designs. As business owners you need to include this in your priority list. If you are not familiar with ADA guidelines then you need to engage a Certified Access Specialist (CASp) to assess your property and check if it complies with the laws to protect you against possible accessibility claims.

Although it’s not mandatory that you invest in a Certified Access Specialist it’s still a wise move because it shows that you have an invested interest in the welfare of your customers and you want everyone to have equal access to your facility. It also means you adhere to the law. One of the many benefits of investing in a CASp is that he or she knows what accessibility standards will apply to your property. They base this on previous improvements done to the property as well as the age of the building.

Although an engineer and an architect can give you an access compliance assessment, they cannot provide “qualified defendant” status against accessibility lawsuits that a CASp can give. Therefore, if you choose to hire a CASp you are reducing your liability and protecting yourself against accessibility claims. Let’s find out more about CASp and why you need CASp certified architectural designs.

What Does A CASp Do?

Certified Access Specialist or CASp is someone who has successfully passed an exam that assesses a person’s knowledge on construction-related accessibility standards. A CASp can protect you against potential accessibility lawsuits by ensuring that your property follows ADA’s guidelines.

What Are the Benefits of Qualified Defendant Status?

You can maintain CASp services at any given time but you will only acquire “qualified defendant” status if you were able to obtain an inspection of your property, completed a report made by a CASp and have set a compliance schedule prior to a filed construction-related accessibility claim. The benefits of a qualified defendant status include lessened statutory damages and ninety days stay of court proceeding and an early evaluation conference. Furthermore, availing of a CASp service shows that you are willing to respect the rules.

What Is ADA and How Do I Integrate It to My Business?

The ADA, which stands for The Americans with Disabilities Act, is a law that forbids the discrimination of people with disabilities. It demands that all commercial properties and other facilities that are open to the public be accessible to people with disabilities. Dating back to January 26, 1992, the ADA requires that all constructed buildings and renovations must adhere to the standards set by the ADA.

All buildings that were renovated or constructed before January 26, 1992 and are open to the public are obliged to eradicate barriers that hinder people with disabilities from entering a facility with ease and convenience. CASp can help with these changes to ensure that your facility caters to the public.

All commercial buildings that were renovated or constructed on or later than March 15, 2012 and places of public accommodation must be constructed in accordance to the standards of the 2010 Americans with Disabilities Act.

Furthermore, it is required that in every facility an accessible feature must be maintained. If you don’t comply with the rules you are putting yourself at risk of getting filed with a discrimination claim. If a person with disability could not enter your facility because it lacks accessibility features, that person can file a case against you as a result of physical access barriers.

David LoPresti

David LoPresti, co-owner of ADA Compliance Professionals, brings years of architectural design and ADA compliance experience to the table. With a mother who has had a life-long disability, he has seen first-hand the complexity and challenges of making a property ADA compliant. This experience has led to him dedicating his life to improving ADA access for businesses across California so they can be enjoyed by all.

Do you live in an area where flooding is a constant occurrence? If yes, you need to know how to protect your home from flood damage. One of the most common retrofitting methods is home elevation or elevating a house to a required or desired Flood Protection Elevation. Flood is not only capable of destroying your safety but it will also compromise the structural integrity of your home once water gets in plus it’s going to negatively affect your finances when costly restoration repairs are necessary.

How Can You Protect Your Home Against Floods?

There are steps you need to take in order to protect our home from flood damage. The first step is to determine the probability of flood in your area and the ability of your house to withstand the flood.

Evaluate the Risk of Flooding in Your Location

You can refer to FEMA Flood Map Service to know the general flood risk in your location. All you need to do is to type in your zip code and click the “view web map” button to view the flood zones in your area. In there you will also find flood history reports. The flood maps will show you specific markings indicating flood risk areas as well as relevant structures including levees, dams and bridges. The following are some of the colored zones you’ll find in the flood map:

Blue Zones: The blue zones are areas that only have 1% annual-chance of flooding. According to FEMA, blue zones are areas that rarely experience flooding. In fact, if it’s ever going to flood it will only be once every 100 years. However, even though the figure seems negligible it is still important that you safeguard your home against flooding. You can’t take any chances even if your home is located within a blue zone.

Orange Zones: For structures located in orange zones there are 0.2% annual-chance of flooding. According to FEMA, orange zones are likely to experience major flooding at least once every 500 years. Basically, since orange zones are less likely to experience floods compared to blue zones flood insurance rates are markedly reduced. Nevertheless, you still need to ensure that your house is flood free by checking for leaks and carefully monitoring surface runoff following a storm.

Yellow Zones: The yellow zones are areas where flood risk is still undetermined. If you are planning to purchase a property that is located within a yellow zone make sure that you research the area thoroughly especially digging into its flood history. Ask those living within the area if they have experienced heaving flooding in the past and make sure that you ask the flood insurance agent if the house is strong enough to withstand flooding.

Blue with Red Stripes: The areas with blue and red stripes are considered regulatory floodways. These zones usually have a river and a floodplain to allow water to drain from nearby zones. Unfortunately, there are people who have built houses near these zones. This can be risky therefore; you need to take extra precautions to ensure that your home is protected during heavy floods.

After you have checked out the map in your area and after knowing your zone, look at the year when the map was created because sometimes these maps are outdated meaning the information, they show are no longer relevant. You can’t risk believing what you see on the map without verifying its accuracy. The last thing you’d want is thinking you are in a Blue Zone when you’re not.

Your next step is to have a discussion with your flood insurance agent so you will know the exact flood level of your property. Flood level refers to the height where floodwaters could rise during a storm. It is ideal that properties are built way above this level to protect it against flood damage. If you were to choose between a house that’s situated at the bottom of a valley and a property that’s built uphill, it is wise to choose the latter.

It’s also important that you study possible areas in your home where floodwaters might enter. You can do this by observing the surface runoff following a heavy rain or a snowmelt. Check if the water flows away or towards your home. Check your basement if you have one.

How Can You Protect Your Home Against Flooding?

If you live in a flood-prone area you should find ways to protect your home and one way of doing that is by elevating it. When it comes to house elevation make sure that you partner with a reliable company that offers excellent house raising services. You can’t entrust your home to amateurs. Elevating your house is one of the best decisions you can make for your million-dollar investment. The benefits are invaluable since you will not only be protected from flood elevating your home will also increase its value. Professional house-raising experts will make use of top-quality jacks to safely and securely raise your house and protect its foundation. While raising your house, these experts will study and evaluate your floor, reconnect all utilities and check the durability and strength of each column.

Elevating your home will make sure that floodwaters will not get in during heavy storms. You see, once floodwaters get in it can wreak havoc in your home causing property damage. Think about it, are you going to do a one-time investment and pay for a company that will safely elevate your home for years to come or are you going to wait until floodwaters ruin your precious property and just pay for costly restorations? If you are smart, you’ll choose the former.

Richard Earls

Richard Earls Construction is a general contractor that has 28 years of experience and provides the New Orleans area with foundation specialist, new home construction, residential construction, commercial construction and more.

It is only natural that you want to make the most of your marketing campaign, seeing as there are no guarantees that it will result in any returns. It is a calculated risk you have to take in order to know whether it will be effective. Otherwise, you are just throwing money away. Many clients who contact us for Las Vegas exhibit rentals also want to know what they can do to to make their show as effective as possible. We’re going to point out some important aspects regarding the effective use of trade shows in your marketing campaign. So, take some notes if you want to make the next trade show even better than the last.

Why Add Trade Shows To Your Campaign

Before you gear up your campaign, it’s important to understand why trade shows are important. More specifically, what are some of the fundamentals you can achieve by going through all the effort? Because once you understand the benefits, the execution part becomes much easier.

Promoting Your Product

Firstly, a trade show is there to promote your product. This is your chance to test how consumers are going to react, and to establish your place in the market.

Make Sure Everyone Understands the Concept

A trade show provides a platform to explain and showcase the concept of the product. This is particularly important when your product is unique and not something people will understand at face value.

Rub Shoulders and Learn from Your Peers

There is also a matter of networking with your peers. You never know what type of connections you can make at a trade show, especially when talking with entrepreneurs that share the same goals.

Now that you know why you are investing in trade shows, here are some tips on how to make them effective.

Increasing Effectiveness

Draw Attention

It is critical that your display doesn’t get lost between all the others. In fact, you want people to see it from as far as possible. Drawing attention with visual aids, media, and other equipment can really make the difference. Because if you can’t draw people to your booth, how can you impress them?

Don’t Sit Around and Wait

If possible, get someone to help you spread the word about the booth. For example, someone stays at the booth to handle the presentation, while other team members hand out cards and remind people the booth exists. Of course, you don’t want to stalk people or irritate them. But when you see a particular group of people who aren’t engaged in one of the booths, strike up a conversation and invite them over.

Have Business Cards and Samples Ready

While it is great to impress people and get the reaction you want, it doesn’t help if you are not prepared with a next step. You got the people at the booth, they tested the product and they like it. Now what? If possible, let them walk away with a sample and a card they can use to contact you. In other words, make it easy for stores and people to put in an order.

Gather Consumers/Client Reaction

It goes without saying that you need to read your audience well. This means taking note of how they react to your booth and presentation. And after getting this type of information, make some tweaks to see if you can improve the trade show experience.

Go to As Many As Possible

Don’t limit yourself to one trade show, and don’t base all your success on it as well. It’s going to take several trade shows to really establish a market, but you don’t have to break the bank while doing it. You just need to make smart choices and focus. Then you’ll see better returns.

Kore Exhibits

Kore Exhibits & Fabrication specializes in custom portable, modular and custom fabricated trade show displays and exhibits for purchase, lease or rent in Las Vegas and all the other top U.S. trade show venues. This post is sponsored by Kore Exhibits.

Many homeowners do not realize that the most important part of having a pond in their backyard is maintaining it. It takes a lot of time and energy to maintain it in the right manner but if you spend the required time, it will be a rewarding experience.

One of the first things you need to understand when it comes to pond care is that it begins right after the construction is finished. You need to ensure regular maintenance in order to keep it suitable for aquatic life. Using pond fountains and aerators can keep your pond healthy and clean. If you take proper care of it, you will be rewarded with amazing plants and beautiful aquatic animals. Here are a few tips on how to take care of your pond.

Cleaning the pond on a regular basis is the key to providing a nurturing environment for the aquatic plants and fish you plan to keep in your pond. Therefore, it is important to get rid of the debris at regular intervals. One of the biggest threats to the ecosystem of your pond is the leaves as these decompose and release toxic gases that may destroy the ecological balance of your pond. So, use a skimmer net in order to get rid of leaves as well as light debris from the surface. It is also recommended to invest in a pond vacuum in order to get rid of the sludge at regular intervals. Don’t forget to leave a little sludge in the pond to support algae growth.

Use a trap net to prevent leaves from falling into the pond. It is also recommended to use a filter mat below the trap net in order to catch the smaller debris. Do not forget to empty the net on a regular basis in order to prevent its contents from polluting the water in the pond. You should also regularly prune the trees hanging over your pond in order to ensure that adequate amount of light reaches the aquatic plants for proper photosynthesis.

Early summer is the right time to introduce new water plants in your pond as water is warm at that time which supports rapid plant growth. You may grow floaters, marginal, lilies or marshes in your pond. It is recommended to use suitable fertilizers every five weeks to support plant growth. Use only organic pesticides and make sure no toxic fertilizers are used to support the plant growth as toxic fertilizers do a lot more harm in the long run. Use a garden rake to get rid of the excess plants. It is also important to get rid of the dead plants regularly to prevent release of toxic chemicals in the water.

While algae growth is necessary for a healthy pond, too much algae can be a big problem. Algae provides a great food source for aquatic animals, but you should take care to prevent excessive growth. One of the natural ways to maintain algae growth is to introduce aquatic plants that prevent excessive growth of these micro plants. You may introduce plants that use huge quantities of nutrients which, in turn, prevents excessive growth of algae. Similarly, cover plants such as lilies prevent adequate amount of light from reaching algae. You may also use a rake to physically remove the algae.

If you have pump, filter and fountains in your pond, it is important to maintain these parts to prevent clogging and malfunction. It is also recommended to maintain the right water level in the pond. In case the water level falls quickly, it may be due to leaks. One of the signs of leakage is wet surrounding ground. To fix the leakage, drain all the water from the pond and use right materials to repair the pond. To top up the pond water, it is recommended to use clean water instead of using tap water as tap water may encourage excessive growth of algae.

The key to growth of aquatic life in your pond is aeration. A well aerated pond provides enough oxygen to for growth of aquatic plants and animals, and it also reduces growth of algae. For improving aeration, you may use fountains, waterfalls or bubblers. In summer months, it is better to use an air pump for maximizing aeration.

Overall, you will need to spend some time to take care of your backyard pond, but the results are so worth it. So, keep the above-mentioned tips in mind to take care of your pond.

Joe Cadieux

Joe Cadieux is the Senior Biologist for Midwestponds.com. Joe grew up fishing, hunting, and camping with his family in the Midwest. At home he helped out on the hobby farm with the chickens, rabbits, and goats … and one goose (Gracie).

Plumbing businesses aren’t exempt from the effects of digitalization that is currently transforming all other industries. Plumbing companies can benefit from the latest plumbing service software on the market. But the plumbing managers should invest in the right systems to get the maximum benefits of the money invested in such systems. There are many important things to consider when purchasing the right plumbing software. Here are some things to consider when looking for the best plumbing service scheduling apps on the market.

Whether you run your plumbing business on your own or have a few employees under you, the right plumbing service software can help you to get more control over your business. In fact, such a software system will help you execute dozens of daily operational responsibilities quite easily.

The most important thing is to choose the software system that has the right features for your plumbing business. There are software systems that include numerous features. You should be looking for the system that has the right features to match your day to day operations. The right features will help your business grow faster in the long run. Investing in the best plumbing service scheduling apps is the best way to take your plumbing business to the next level within the shortest possible time frame.

Some of the common features of a good plumbing software include schedule management, managing appointments, work order creation, and the collection and storage of valuable customer data. Some software systems will track plumbing equipment and parts inventory functions. That way you will have a better idea of the overall operation of your plumbing business. That is why it is important that you invest in the right plumbing service scheduling software systems in the industry.

GPS tracking is an important feature that should be included in your software. It should have a tracking system that is either embedded into the plumber or the vehicle. They include effective revenue-boosting advantages to the plumbing company. Here are some of the benefits of investing in a good plumbing service scheduling software system on the market.

Transparency is one of the most important benefits of such a software. You will be able to track a plumbing job from the initial call throughout the entire process. This will give you more leverage over your business and help improve its bottom line over time.

Plumbing software systems will help to accurately schedule appointments and get more work done within each day. On the other hand, the ability to record valuable customer information helps the plumbing company to offer an excellent customer service to their clients in the area. The company will be able to meet customer expectations much better than in the past thanks to the right plumbing service scheduling apps on the market.

Choosing the right software systems on the market isn’t an easy task. There are many things to consider when doing so. In fact, your research plays an important part in this regard. You should make sure to conduct a thorough research before choosing the right plumbing service scheduling app on the market. Your research will give you access to some of the best apps on the market. The internet is the best place to start your search. A search on Google or Yahoo will reveal a host of software systems out there. Make sure to do some comparison shopping before selecting the best product for your business. That way you will save a lot of time and money in the process.

The aforementioned article provides information on what to consider when choosing the best plumbing service scheduling apps.

Bill Westrom

Bill Westrom is the founder and CEO of Westrom Software, a privately owned software development company with more than 15 years of successful business application development experience. He employs a wide range of IT professionals, flexible policies, and efficiently managed work practices that distinguish the company from firms offering similar services. The Service Program was developed by Westrom software.

Cash advance loans differ from regular loans in a number of different ways. They are also often referred to as payday loans or short-term cash loans. It is important to understand how they function in order to get the greatest benefit from these types of loans.

1. The Term

The term of a loan refers to the repayment period or how long you have to repay the loan, in total. An online cash advance loan has a very short repayment period, normally 1 month or 30 days. This means that there are no scheduled monthly or weekly repayments but rather that the full loan amount, including interest and other fees, must be paid on the due date.

2. Loan Amount

The loan amount awarded on a cash advance loan is normally very small and dependent on a future income. For example, a payday loan will never be in excess of a person’s net income (income after deductions). This is because the purpose of the loan is normally to cover an emergency need for cash or a shortfall in a month. The loan amount may be greater if another type of future income (such as an inheritance or tax return) will be used to repay the loan and proof of this income can be provided.

It is crucial to pay careful attention to the loan amount and keep it as small as possible. Keep in mind what you can afford to repay on the due date rather than the amount that you require immediately. If you cannot make the repayment in full, additional interest and other charges may apply or the loan provider may force you to take out another loan to cover the first loan.

This can easily result in you falling into a debt trap where you are unable to afford to repay the loans, additional interest or other charges. A loan provider may then take steps to repossess goods or assets in order to recover the loan amount.

3. Interest

The interest charged on a cash advance loan is normally very high due to the short term. Longer term loans can afford lower interest spread over a few months or years in order to remain profitable. Short term loan providers need to make a profit in a much shorter period and therefore charge more interest.

It is advisable to shop around and compare interest rates from different short term or cash advance loan providers. It may also be beneficial to consider applying for a regular loan that will cost you less in the long run and may be more affordable to repay.

4. Security, Collateral or Co-signature

Some loans will require that you provide a security deposit in order for the full loan amount to be awarded. For example, home loans or car finance. Other loans may request some form of collateral. Collateral is an asset or future income that the loan provider can use to cover the full loan amount should you be unable to meet your financial obligation to them.

In rare cases, a bank or other financial institution may require a co-signature on the loan agreement. The person cosigning the loan will become liable for the repayments or full loan amount should you default on the loan.

A cash advance loan does not require any security, collateral or a co-signature. It is one of the most convenient types of loans available.

5. Application Process

The application process is normally very quick and simple for a cash advance loan when compared to the process for a regular loan. This is because it is on a short-term basis, in a small amount and does not require security or collateral in order for the loan amount to be awarded.

You will need to provide your personal information, employment details as well as proof of income in order for the loan to be approved. You should receive approval as well as cash in hand or in your bank account within a day or two of application. This fast processing procedure is the primary reason that cash advance loans are ideal for emergencies.

Cash advance loans are ideal to access cash funds quickly and conveniently when you need it most.

Payday Rocks

Payday Rocks is one of the quickest growing payday loan services online. If you have bad credit that isn't a problem. Payday Rocks checks through many lenders to find the best loan to fit your needs. Over 90% of applications are successful. This post sponsored by Payday Rocks.

Tensioned fabric structures and buildings are constructed by using two components. The first component is a rigid frame, typically either aluminum or steel. The second component is a durable outer membrane made of fabric that is tensioned so it will stay in place.

When the frame gets erected, the tension fabric cover is stretched out over that frame. It’s then tensioned to give occupants of the structure a sturdy and stable physical barrier between them and the weather. Even if no one is inside the structure, the barrier can prevent damage to physical contents stored within from elements like wind, snow, and rain. The fabrics used are often industrial strength, and the tensioning is done in a number of ways, depending on how the specific unit or model was manufactured. A tight-fitting membrane cover is created.

In contrast to conventional or traditional structures, a tension fabric building has a lower cost for installation. They are often bright in color and put up fast. Also, contingent upon the foundation type in question, they can sometimes be relocated with ease or even sold to another party.

The popularity of tension fabric buildings has grown the last few years. This has especially happened in the agricultural, commercial, and industrial sectors. This is because such structures make use of engineered steel trusses that get covered very fast with an industrial-strength fabric membrane. These structures go up very quickly and at low cost, especially compared to buildings that use wood, metal, or vinyl siding. There are no interior posts inside tension fabric structures, and they give owners and users a bright open space free of obstructions that are functional for a great many purposes.

Vehicle and equipment storage is one such application, and fabrication and manufacturing projects also find them useful in certain stages. Community events often use them for temporary structures, and a lot of recreational locations might use them as a seasonal structure. Road maintenance departments set them up for salt and sand storage out of the elements or other warehousing purposes. Horse shows and circuses sometimes use them for feed and hay storage. Corporations and other companies might use them for airplane hangars and mineral storage. Many owners use them as vehicular storage for cars, boats, and RVs. They also make good emergency shelters in disaster areas.

Tension fabric structures let natural light into their interior space, but they keep rain, snow, and wind from coming in. That makes them a comfortable yet effective temporary climate for many different activities and budgets.

Many jurisdictions and municipalities have rules and regulations regarding tension fabric structures, often classifying them as temporary structures. However, there can be substantial engineering limitations to them in terms of design, as mindfulness must be had regarding maximum occupancy, snow load, and wind they can endure. They also have rather limited fire safety. Permitting is necessary in many areas before they can be put up.

Some tension fabric structures are put up with an intention of them being permanent. The regulatory requirements here are far more stringent. The lifespan of many fabrics is estimated at two decades to 25 years, although sunlight is the biggest factor here. Common manufacturing materials include polyethylene or PVC. Repair and replacement pieces are often available within two business days.

Carol Fontius

Carol Fontius is the founder of Creative Tent International, which expanded to manufacturing in 2004 after selling engineered tents to the resort and US military markets.

Redecorating is a thing that many people love until you are considering the cost. Luckily, there are several redesigning options that can be done quickly without breaking the bank. While these projects won’t become a complete overhaul, they can be ideal for refreshing your own home on a budget.

One affordable selection for home improvement is painting. If it’s been a couple of years since your walls have experienced fresh paint, it might be time and energy to freshen things up. If you believe like your home is gloomy or bland, use bright colors, such as white with an accent wall. This will brighten a place quickly as well as including a a little color.

If you think just like your kitchen needs an upgrade, you can think about installing a dishwasher. Dishwashers can save both time and money. The fee for a dishwasher plus install is about 500 dollars. Newer dishwashers conserve both energy and water which can lead to you saving cash in the long term. A dishwasher could be installed without the need for a specialist and tends to only take several hours.

Another easy way to renew a property is always to change out hardware on cabinets and light-weight fixtures. Changing handles and knobs can be the best way to change the appearance items in your house without emptying your wallet. Lighting fixtures may be easily swapped out with an latest version to create more light into your home. If you’re trying to reduce on cooling costs, consider installing ceiling fans instead of regular ceiling lights.

Home improvement can be accomplished with out a big stash of money. Doing small improvements over time will get your house to that you want to buy while not having to spend a good deal at once. Smaller projects also help to make sure that each project gets completed just before the next project begins.

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