Presence photos

STATIC

Don’t Replace That Old Flat Roof

Comments (0)

Your Home’s Existing Architecture May Affect Your Flat Roofing Replacement

If you’ve looked at all the alternatives and determine that a roofing conversion is really the best option for your home, it’s time to start planning your home’s new architectural design. There are a couple of different ways to go about a conversion. You can install a shallow pitched roof over your existing flat roof, add a trussed ranch-style roof to convert to cathedral walls, or even build a new floor and install the pitched roof above that. Either way, your home’s existing design may interfere or affect the changes you can make. For instance, if you’re not building a new floor into your home, your design may be limited if the existing ceiling joists aren’t arranged correctly. That means you may have to tear out the ceilings below the roof as well. An architect or structural engineer should be able to provide advice on what’s possible in your home—and what additional changes you’ll need to make before you can get your dream roof.

Expect to Spend More for Complicated Roofing Systems

Most homeowners choose to convert a flat roof to a pitched one using a simple trussed roof with two angled planes. While that’s the easiest route, it’s certainly not your only option. Additional valleys, angles, and gables can be built into converted roofs as well—but adding these elements may affect your project. For instance, it may be difficult to build a large gable into a low-pitched roof that you install above the flat roof surface. Always make sure your design gets an okay from an engineer or architect—someone who can sign off on the structural integrity—before making changes.

Pitched roof installation guides

When considering the best roofing solutions, some property owners choose a flat to pitched roof conversion. This can be a good choice for those looking for both functional or aesthetical improvements to their roofing. But is it the right choice for you? Here are a few of the reasons you may choose to convert your flat roof to a pitched structure.

Renovating Your Home’s Exterior

We often look at home improvements and renovations within our property, but what about giving the outside an uplift too? While many people know about the benefits of replacing their windows and doors or painting their brickwork, little consideration is given to how their roofline and general roofing areas could be harming the overall look of the property. A popular place to convert a flat roof to a pitched roof is over the porch or garage areas at the front of the home. The conversion creates greater cohesion between these areas and the main property, rather than feeling like ‘add-on’ spaces. It’s also a simple way to transform the façade, adding an attractive feature with tiles or slates along the new pitched roof. Ultimately, you’ll enhance the curb appeal of your home with this type of change.

Eliminating Problems with Your Flat Roof

While there are plenty of high-quality solutions, when the time comes to upgrade your flat roof, for those who have experienced a lot of issues over the years, you may want to install pitched roofing to eliminate these problems entirely. Unfortunately, some flat roofs made from poorer quality materials or those which weren’t installed well when originally chosen can experience recurring issues. This includes leaks, water pooling, blistering and tears. High performance flat roofs can resolve these problems, or you may decide that pitched roofing will create the effective drainage system you want, while increasing the longevity of your roof.

Improving Home Insulation

Most homeowners understand the importance of creating a well-insulated home, conserving energy, warmth and reducing those energy bills. A flat to pitched roof conversion should be considered for these type of home improvement plans. The insulating properties of a flat to pitched roof comes down to two factors. One is the increased weather resistance provided by pitched roofs. The second is the way in which the conversion is built. At Collier Roofing, for example, we build the pitched area over the existing flat roof. This means you have an extra layer of protection and insulation for your home. Always ask your roofer about the techniques they’ll be using for this type of roof conversion.

The Process of Changing the Pitch of Your Roof

If you own a building with a flat roof, the first thing your contractor will do is consult a structural engineer to make sure your structure can handle the conversion. Pitched roofs are usually much heavier than flat roofs, so an easy replacement may not always be possible. If it is determined that your building can support a pitched roof, the next step will be the removal of all of your roofing materials and the main roofing structure.

Pitched roofs require more manpower and time to install, especially when making a major structural conversion. A pitched roof will require new roof trusses and supports. Any damaged wood will need to be removed and replaced.

A contractor may choose to construct new trusses on the spot or have them delivered pre-assembled once he has taken measurements. Part of the process involved in changing the pitch of your roof will be calculating the cost of all necessary materials. You will choose your new roofing material as well, as this will be completely different from the materials used to cover a flat roof.

Weatherproofing

Flat roofs have a reputation for leaking and this is one of the main reasons people make the switch. Two of the most common reasons flat roofs can leak are:

• Poor fitting –a bad installation may leave gaps in the waterproofing, the roof may lack the slight pitch needed to prevent water collecting on it, or your guttering may become blocked if fitted badly. All of these can allow water to penetrate the roof and enter your house.

• Bad maintenance – a flat roof needs regular attention to ensure its upper surface remains waterproof. UV damage from sunlight, small holes or tears caused by animals and abrasion of the waterproof membrane due to people walking on it can all result in water leakage.

A pitched roof has a significant advantage when it comes to keeping out rain. The roof’s slope allows the water to naturally flow away, minimising the amount of time it spends on the roof.

The materials used for pitched roofs are usually much thicker and harder wearing than those used on flat roofs, making it much less likely they will suffer enough damage to allow water through.

Why Consider a Roof Conversion?

Here are the primary reasons homeowners choose to convert a flat roof to pitched:

  1. Solution to a maintenance problem. Poor design and/or construction of the existing flat roof may have resulted in frequent or recurring problems.
  2. Cost. The old roof may have structural issues requiring significant repair or renovation. If corrective measures are extensive, the cost of fixing a flat roof may be close to the cost of converting to a pitched roof—or close enough.
  3. Longer roofing lifespan. In theory, roofing on flat roofs can last as long as standard materials on sloped roofs, but in reality, pitched roofs tend to have greater longevity. It’s important to compare the durability of pitched-roof materials (like shingles) with high-quality flat-roof materials (not just tar-and-gravel or torch-down roofing), though.
  4. Easier insulation and ventilation. Flat roofs often aren’t (and usually shouldn’t be) ventilated, and their space constraints make it challenging to achieve high R-values with insulation. Pitched roofs offer more space for insulation and can be ventilated with fewer problems.
  5. More space. A pitched roof can create an attic space for storage or possibly additional living space, or both. How much space depends on the house size and the slope and structure of the new roof. A pitched roof may also add visual space if the old roof is removed and the new roof structure is designed for a cathedral ceiling.
  6. Aesthetics. This depends on the house and the owners’ taste. A pitched gable roof is the quintessential roof style in most of the Western world. On the other hand, flat roofs have been a characteristic feature of Modern home design for decades — and for centuries before on various styles of homes. In any case, some homeowners make the conversion for nothing other than aesthetics.

Cool Tips To Electronic Leak Detection

Comments (0)

Where Leaks Come From

Water leaks can happen for a lot of reasons. There’s a lot of hot, pressurized water shooting through your pipes every day. Even though your pipes are built to withstand it, over enough time, that water will begin to cut through or erode the walls and joints in your pipes; this same process is how canyons are formed.

Pipe Jointspipe joint leak

Most water leaks occur near or in a pipe joint, where one pipe connects to another. When water passes through joints on its way through the system, it gets shaken up as it is forced to swirl and squeeze to get from one pipe to the other. This little bit of extra turbulence makes the pipe walling around the joint wear down that much faster. Consequently, leaks are more likely the more bends, turns or elbows you have in your system.

Hard Waterhard water leak

The integrity of your pipes is also affected by the attributes of the water in your system. If your home has hard-water (mineral-heavy), it’ll eat through the pipe walls more quickly. Minerals are hard on pipes because they are coarse; as they move through the pipes, they scrape up against the inside, wearing it away. The pH value of your water will also affect corrosion. Water with subtly acidic properties will eat away at the lining of the pipe, weakening it and making it more susceptible to wear and damage.

Water Pressurewater pressure pipe leak

The more pressurized your water is, the faster it’ll shoot through your pipes. The higher the velocity of the water moving through the pipes, the rougher it’ll be on the inside of your pipes. Over time, the pipe will be worn away enough that tiny hairline fractures will be worn into them by the water. When water passes through the part of the pipe that’s worn away, the pressure of open water in the closed system will suck the water out causing leakage. If you think you might have a leak, don’t wait until it’s too late to contact a professional plumber.

How to Detect Leaks

Monitor the Water Bill

Monthly water bills are fairly predictable, so if you receive one that’s unusually high—and you haven’t been using excess water—you may have a leak. The Environmental Protection Agency suggests that a family of four will typically use no more than 12,000 gallons per month, except perhaps during the summer if you water a garden or lawn. Even small leaks, such as a faucet with a steady drip, can waste as much as 10,000 gallons of water per year, so keeping an eye on your water bill is a smart, proactive practice.

Watch the Water Meter

If you suspect a leak, monitoring your home’s water meter will give you a definitive answer. The meter is often located beneath a manhole-type cover near the street or (in areas where temperatures don’t dip below freezing) on the side or back of the house, near to where the water supply line enters the house. Follow these steps to monitor the meter:

  1. Turn off all water faucets in your home and make sure the washing machine and dishwasher are not running.
  2. Check the water meter and make a note of the numbers you see. Come back in an hour and check again. If the numbers have changed, there’s a leak somewhere.
  3. To determine if the water leak is in the house or outdoors (only for homes with meters located at the street), turn off the shut-off valve on your home’s main water supply pipe. This is either located in a basement or a utility room where the water pipe enters the home.
  4. Check the water meter, write down the numbers, and wait another hour. When you check again, if the numbers have not changed, the water leak is inside your home. If the numbers have changed, the leak is in the buried water line that runs to the house.

Check for Patches of Greener Grass

Everyone wants a lush lawn, but if an area in your yard is much greener (and grows faster) than the rest of the grass, it could indicate the spot where a buried water line is leaking. If the leak is profuse, you might even see some puddles on the surface of the ground.

 Investigate Appliances and Fixtures

If the water meter test indicates a leak inside your home, check the cabinets under the kitchen, laundry, and bathroom sinks to make sure they’re dry. You’ll also want to look for puddles around the bases of tubs, toilets, and showers and beneath the water heater, dishwasher, and clothes washer. If you find any puddles, turn off the water supply valve to that appliance or fixture and call a plumber.

Leaking Faucets

Leaking faucets are generally a result of a worn rubber washer. The washer on a sink is usually located under the handle. These are relatively easy to replace, if you have the right tools. It does require shutting off the water under the sink or at the main shutoff valve and removing the handle. (Note: faucet handles are not shutoff valves.) Check your local home center or hardware store on how to repair faucet leaks.

Leaking Toilets

Toilet leaks can waste hundreds of gallons and often times are silent. Even a small leak can add up to a lot of wasted water and money over time. Fortunately, most toilet leaks are easy and inexpensive to repair.

To help determine if you have a leaking toilet, simply remove the tank lid and place a few drops of food coloring in back of the toilet tank. (If you don’t have food coloring, you can purchase dye tabs from any hardware or home center). Wait about 30 minutes, without flushing, and then look in the toilet bowl to see of any color has come through. If the water is clear, water is not leaking. If you see food coloring in the bowl you have a leak.

In most cases, you will simply just need to replace the toilet flapper and/or filling mechanism. These are available at hardware or home center stores for about $8.00 each.

Flapper Valve Leaks

The most common reason for a leaking toilet is one that has an improperly working or sealing flapper. The flapper is the rubber valve in the bottom of the tank that lifts up when the toilet is flushed. If the flapper is worn or cracked, it allows water to continuously flow from the tank into the toilet bowl without flushing.

Flush Handle Problems

If the handle needs to be jiggled to keep the toilet from running, the flush level bar and chain (or the handle itself) may be sticking. Adjust the nut that secures it in the toilet tank. If that does not work, the handle may have to be replaced.

Water Leak Detection Checklist

  1. The leak may be coming from your water mains supply, or there may be a mains water leak from your neighbour’s property. A leaking water main further up the road also could cause any leakage into your basement that you may be experiencing. You can contact your water supplier and get them to check your mains supply and your neighbours’ supply – the only neighbours that can really affect you are those either side of you or those on higher ground than you.
  2. If water has come through your walls or floor or into your basement you can get your water supplier to test it to determine where it’s come from – they will be able to tell you whether it’s ground water, mains water or sewage.
  3. You can test whether your foul water pipes have any leaks by blocking them up. Find out where your foul water drains away by turning a tap on and lifting up your manhole cover. You can block the hole the water flows from into the manhole with a bung available in either 4 inch or 6 inch sizes from your local builders’ merchants. Fill up your toilet bowl or sink with water and mark the level of the water. Leave the water overnight and see what happens – if the level of the water has dropped overnight then you need to get a drains company to come in to investigate and trace the leak in your pipes. You can find a qualified company to do this on the National Association of Drainage Contractors website. Alternatively, you may have a pretty good idea of where the leak is coming from at this point if you know where your wet area is, so you will know what needs to be mended. Make sure you remove the bung after completing the test!
  4. You can check whether the leak is coming from a fault in your surface drain by using a bag of drains testing dye that you can buy from your local builders’ merchants. Put the dye in the drain and then filling the drain up with water. This dye glows in the dark so you can then look at your leak at night and look for the dye to confirm that the water is coming from your surface drain.
  5. If the water is leaking in your bathroom or kitchen it’s a good idea to check your plumbed in appliances and bathtub/shower cubicle, sink and toilet.
  6. If the water is appearing in your floor you should check your central heating system as this may be the source of the leak – check your pipes and radiators, with your first check being the pipes that run under the area of damp floor. You can also ask a plumber in to do a pressure test as this may help to trace where in the system the leak is coming from if this is the source of the leak.

The Process Of Leak Location

Electronic leak detection devices locate and confirm leaks by listening to the sound of water running along the pipes, using a microphone. Your plumbing contractor will choose the best location to set up the electronic leak detection device. The sounds it records will then be transmitted to a computer program, where the plumber will analyze the information. An experienced licensed plumber will know whether the sound is from a cracked pipe or a leaking faucet. From there, they will determine the best repair technique appropriate to repair the leak.

Electronic leak detection is not only used to determine water leaks. It can also be used to locate leaks in other pressurized systems, like the compressor of an air conditioner or refrigerator, and in natural gas lines.

Concerned About Wall & Floor Damage?

Don’t be. Back in the day, a licensed plumber would need to rip open the wall or dig up your entire floor in order to find the location of a leak. Today, with electronic leak detection, wall and floor damage is minimal. Since the plumber determines the exact location of the leak beforehand, the part of the wall to be removed or the area of the floor that will be dug up will be smaller. A smaller hole also means bigger savings for you in terms of time and money.

What Are The Duties Of A Family Law Attorney

Comments (0)

How to Choose the Best Lawyer for You

Even if your case seems pretty straightforward, go to someone who has handled matrimonial cases before. You don’t need an attorney who works solely in that area, whose fees might be very high. But you do want someone who knows which papers have to be filed in which courthouse and who can take your case to trial if need be. Now is not the time to do your third cousin a favor by hiring her son, who was recently admitted to the bar.

Red Alert

Make sure you choose an attorney you can afford. Some lawyers want a large retainer, but their hourly rate is relatively low, or they have a junior attorney who can do some of the work at a lower hourly rate.If you want to hire a lawyer for only certain aspects of your divorce, you might prefer someone who specializes in unbundled services. If you have millions of dollars at stake, a legal powerhouse could be best for you

Some very competent matrimonial lawyers will tell you from the outset that they do not go to court. They might be very good negotiators, but if your case doesn’t settle, they will recommend another attorney, either in their firm or at another, to take over the case. For some people, that’s fine. Others prefer to have an attorney who will go the distance. Be sure to ask.

Your First Meeting

When you’re with an attorney for the first time, he or she will ask you for some background information about your situation. You should be told, briefly, how the laws work in your state and what that will mean for your own case. The lawyer can also tell you which court will handle your case. Is the court in your jurisdiction backlogged? Knowing this could determine your strategy in resolving your case—is it helpful to drag out the divorce or to end it quickly?

Fees and Billing

During this first consultation, the lawyer should also explain his or her fees. Does she take a retainer—a lump-sum payment—up front? That practice is common. As the lawyer works on your case, she subtracts an amount equal to her hourly rate from the sum you have prepaid. For example, if you paid Attorney Greenfield $1,000 and her hourly rate is $100, you would have bought 10 hours of work in advance. Most will quote a flat rate for the retainer

Tips for Choosing a Family Law Solicitor

When it comes to choosing a family solicitor where do you start? Well there are many ways, from phoning friends and family, to scouring the internet or even picking up the phone and speaking to one of the family law firms that advertise on the back of buses or at hoardings at the railway station.

Why it is so important to choose a family law solicitor that is right for you

Getting divorced or taking part in children or financial court proceedings is stressful. It is still going to be tough, whatever family law solicitor you chose. However, the process will be easier if you find a family law solicitor you can work with and feel comfortable instructing.

Questions to ask when choosing a family law solicitor

When you chose a family law solicitor, you are likely to be working with them for some time so it is important to choose with care. I deliberately say ‘’working with’’ as a family law solicitor should not tell you what to do. Instead, they should talk to you about what information is needed, assess your legal options, and help you make informed choices, whether that is a referral to mediation, the commencement of court proceedings or an agreed financial settlement.

Who will you be instructing?

That is not as stupid a question as it sounds. In some family law firms you may see a partner on the first meeting but not speak to them again as they will delegate the work to a junior solicitor or paralegal. That can be frustrating if you chose the firm based on the recommendation to an individual family solicitor or thought that the price quoted for the advice was based on an experienced senior solicitor carrying out all the work for you. Many family solicitors delegate work and normally it is in your interests that they do so, but you need to understand who will be helping you.

Is the solicitor a specialist?

Most people assume that a solicitor knows what they are doing but is your solicitor a specialist in family law. Do they do a bit of family law as well as property law and Wills? Nowadays professionals will specialise in one area of law. In large firms or niche family law firms, you will find solicitors that specialise in child law or child abduction or financial settlements or prenuptial agreements

What are the tips for hiring a Family Law Attorney?

Looking for a family lawyer is necessary when needing help with a case involving civil matters such as pre and post-nuptial agreements, divorce, child support, parental timesharing, mediation, modification, adoption, and bankruptcy. A lawyer specializing in these matters makes a big difference in obtaining the best outcome possible for his or her client. While it is true hiring a lawyer is costly, it is often true benefits exceed costs. To make sure you find the best Family Lawyer to handle your case, their area number of things to consider.

Probably the best way to be sure a lawyer is well suited to take Family Law cases is by listening to those who have used his or her services in the past. These persons can be family, friends, or persons writing reviews on a lawyer’s website. Also checking with the state bar association as to recommendations and any past discrepancies will give an idea as to the qualification of the lawyer under consideration.

In today’s computer world it is relatively easy to check a lawyer’s qualifications by going online and reading his or her website. This website should be well done and professional with pictures of the attorney, his or her guiding principles, and an overview of the services he or she provides.

Also. on the website should be additional information important in consideration of choosing the right Family Law Lawyer. You will want to know how long has he or she been in practice, what areas of practice are available, what awards have been given, what areas of community service are he or she involved in, and in what physical counties in the state of your residence does he or she represent clients,

Does he or she offer a free, initial consultation? This is vitally important as to truly consider a Family Law lawyer you need to meet him or her in person. You need to ask questions regarding your case as well as explain the particulars of your case. What is this lawyer like as a person? Do you feel comfortable with his or her personality? How will this lawyer communicate with you, will it be by phone, e-mail, or text? Does he or she have experience in mediations as in many states mediation is required before a court date can be set? Also, a lawyer’s attitude regarding mediation is important as settling a case in mediation costs the client a lot less in lawyer fees, and some lawyers don’t want this to happen

Tips For Choosing The Best Family Law Attorney

Family law involves one of the most important things in life family. And if it’s your family that is in need of legal help, you are particularly invested in getting the best legal help you can find. A family law attorney can assist you with a variety of matters, including divorce, adoption, and child custody. But how do you know which family law attorney is the right one for you? Also following are some tips on choosing the best family law attorney that best fits the family’s needs.

Referrals from friends and family

The first thing to do when looking for a family law attorney is to ask close friends and family for references. Most people need to use an attorney at least once in their lives, and chances are you know some of those people. Ask neighbors or colleagues for recommendations. Maybe you are considering filing for a divorce. Ask any close friends who have been through a divorce if they liked the attorney they worked with.

Consultations

Once you have narrowed down your list to two or three attorneys, consider setting up an initial consult. Some attorneys offer the first consult at no charge. Ask each family law attorney that you call if they offer the first consult free. Even if the consult isn’t free, it may be worth paying some money to find an attorney who is the right fit.

Ask Question that assists to make a decision

Before your first consult, write down any questions you may have, so you don’t forget anything. Ask the family law attorney if he has handled a case like yours before and how many years he has been working with such cases. Ask him about his legal strategy. Ask him about his fees and the fees of any paralegals or legal assistants he works with. Explain your case to him and ask him how the case will proceed and what he feels the outcome will be. As you do this, you will able to discern which lawyer will best fill your needs.

Choosing The Best Divorce Lawyer or Family Law Attorney

Finding the right attorney can be a challenging exercise. There are many good and ethical divorce attorneys who would be happy to represent you, but there are also many who don’t keep up to date with the law, don’t care much about your personal needs and/or charge too much. No matter how straightforward your case, it will likely move faster and be easier if you have a competent attorney to oversee it from beginning to end.

Don’t go around asking your friends or family for the most cutthroat litigation-happy divorce attorney they have ever heard of. Don’t employ an attorney who badmouths his/her colleagues and who tells you that you can get whatever you want out of your spouse if you just fight for it and that your spouse will pay all the costs of the divorce including yours. Rather search for an attorney who will represent your interests, whether that means fighting it out in court or making sure you get a fair settlement. Ask your divorced friends or family members whether they liked their attorneys, and why. Find an attorney who will treat both you and your spouse with respect and who considers the welfare of your children as his/her top priority.

Your attorney cannot manage your case without your help. Because divorce deals primarily with children and financial issues, you need to provide your attorney with all the information he/she requires to be able to deal with your case in a constructive manner. As a client you need to be calm, coherent and reasonable. Working with an attorney takes some patience, and you must remember that your attorney has other responsibilities and other cases that may be more pressing at certain times. It doesn’t mean, however, that your questions or concerns should be ignored, but you have to be realistic in your expectations.

It is up to you personally to convey the seriousness of your concerns, but if you call daily with the same concern, your attorney may not respond as fast as you want him/her to. You don’t want to involve your attorney in every disagreement you have with your spouse or every conflict that occurs in exercising your rights with regards to your children. If your attorney has a legal secretary or paralegal or associate, try to speak to him/her. Although these professionals are generally not able to give you the same advice, they may be able to answer basic questions or reach your attorney to get an answer

Time is money in the legal profession, and the more time you spend with your attorney, the more it will cost you. That is why it is so important to approach meetings or phone calls in an organised way. Think about your questions or issues in advance, and list them to discuss with your attorney.

Factors That Affect Home Renovation Costs

Comments (0)

Home renovation guide: Tips to avoid getting duped when renovating your first place

Congratulations on crossing another milestone in life – getting your first home! But amidst all the excitement you are probably feeling jittery about the home renovation process. Fret not.

In this guide, we will share some insider tips to avoid getting duped for your first home renovation project. Choosing your ideal contractor or interior designer, the theme, getting a loan and more, we got you covered

TAKE TIME TO PLAN YOUR RENOVATION

Start planning your renovation the moment you get the floor plan, and not till you get your keys. Because with more time on hand, you’ll be able to ask around, meet different interior design companies and compare offers carefully. Since you’ll likely be spending a 5-digit sum for your first home renovation project, never rush into making a decision!

CONSIDER AN INTERIOR DESIGN THEME THAT SUITS YOUR LIFESTYLE

We understand that almost every new homeowner wants the interior design of their home to be as up to date as possible. However, don’t try to incorporate too many trends into your home. It is essential to consider an interior design theme that fits your budget and lifestyle instead of following trends blindly. Do choose a pragmatic style that suits your needs, or even increase the value of your property should you rent or sell your home in the future.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT CONTRACTOR OR INTERIOR DESIGNER

In case you didn’t know, hiring an interior designer (ID) typically costs more than a contractor. Why? Because an ID is really a project manager, who will oversee the entire renovation project from ideation to completion. On the other hand, a contractor is a person who can carry out your specific requests.

How to choose the right loan for your 2019 home renovation project

When you own a property, there will inevitably come a point when it needs an upgrade. If you have enough money to cover the costs, that’s great! But for many, a loan is likely to be the best route to take. That’s why we’ve asked Phillip Garlick, Head of Commercial at H&T, to explain what you need to consider if you’re looking to take out a loan to renovate your home in 2019.

If you’re thinking about taking out a loan to complete some renovation projects on your property, there’s some key information you’ll need to know. Not all loans are the same. Lenders often offer a wide array of options for term length, interest rates, charges, and fees. As with anything, finding the best deal comes down to comparing various lenders and products.

What to look for

Every lender is different, and each one will be willing to offer you different terms. That’s why it’s important you take your time and compare each of the various offers available to get an idea of which one might be the best. Broadly, there are three main areas you want to consider when assessing which loan is right for you: the amount of money you will borrow, the interest rate, and the terms of the loan. The best way to choose is to compare the three criteria below across lenders and products, and then apply it to your needs.

Loan amount

The amount of money you will be allowed to borrow is based on a number of factors, but lenders will typically offer you a minimum and a maximum loan amount they are prepared to lend. Some lenders might require a certain minimum income that must be met to get accepted for a specific loan, while others will want to see proof you can afford it. If you aren’t accepted, it is wise to seek a lower loan amount or consider asking a close relative to be a guarantor.

Interest rates

Lenders are required to provide you with an annual percentage rate (APR), which combines the standard interest rate on the loan with all other costs of borrowing, such as fees and charges, allowing you to determine the overall cost of the loan to you. The rate you are offered will vary from lender to lender but you will generally pick the loan with the lowest APR

Home Remodeling & Renovation Ideas

Whether you’re looking to increase the property value of your home ahead of a sale or closing on a house you can’t wait to make your own, chances are there’s a renovation or remodeling project in your future. Which means you’ll have a lot of things to consider, not least among them how to find a contractor, how to mitigate costs, and, no less important, how to translate your Pinterest ideas into reality. AD is here to help. We tapped some of our most trusted renovation sources and combed our archives to bring you this compendium of power home remodeling ideas for every room, including tried-and-true advice from the experts, checklists to help you get started, and stunning before-and-after kitchen, bath, and living room transformations for inspiration. So whether you’re revamping a space to make it more functional or simply more beautiful, this handy guide is your one-stop shop for all things home renovation

Kitchen Design Inspiration

Whether your goal is a multifunctional, family-friendly kitchen or a sleek, contemporary one, there’s something here for you

Bedroom Design Inspiration

Sweet dreams are made of these. Here, pro tips and trusted decorating sources to help you achieve the coziest of sleeping spaces

Patio and Outdoor Space Design Inspiration

From creative seating ideas to inviting landscaping arrangements, these magazine-worthy suggestions will turn a boring backyard into everyone’s favorite hangout

Living Room Design Inspiration

Read on to transform your family room or den into a stylish gathering space with comfort to space

How to Pick a Good Home Renovation Company

Picking the right renovation contractor for the job is essential; they will be responsible for helping to control your budget, and providing you with the product that you are paying for. You also need a contractor that is insured, because any damage that is caused to your home could end up costing you thousands of dollars in repair expenses otherwise. Whether you’re just doing a renovation to one room of the home, or you’re giving the entire house a makeover, you’ll need to work with a contractor that you can trust. As a new homeowner, where do you begin the search? The answer is usually with the advice of others.

References

If you know someone in the area who has had work done to their home, whether they are a family member, friend, or co-worker, then they might be the right place to start your search. You can ask them about what type of work they needed, how much it cost them total, and how long the job took to complete. You can also ask them about the quality of the work. In some cases, you’ll be invited to go to the home to inspect it for yourself. This can inform you of what to expect from the contractor, should you decide to choose one based on a reference. It can also give you valuable information to use during a contractor estimate comparison.

Make it Official

The contractor you choose for renovations needs to be insured, as previously mentioned, but they also need to be licensed. Your city should have a Contractors Licensing Board, where you can check up on credentials of a contractor that you’re interested in working with. There should be proof of certification, along with Liability Insurance proof. Contractors that don’t have these aren’t worth the risk.

Estimates

Finally, estimates are an important part of finding the right contractor. They will tell you the cost, the time frame for the project, and what the contractor will actually be able to do. If you hire a specialist for the renovation task you need, such as a contractor that specializes in window treatments, you can sometimes get both a better price and better service than if you could a more generalized contractor. Go over all of your options carefully with your budget in mind, and you’ll have no trouble finding the right contractor for the job

Tips for Choosing a Remodeling Contractor

Type “remodeling contractor” into Google, and you’ll be presented with the sites of hundreds of contracting firms in your area, each one claiming to be the best. With so many choices to sift through, choosing the right contractor for your home improvement project is no small task. But making this decision is as important as it is challenging, since the success of your interior remodel will be in the hands of the contractor you choose

Take the time to interview each candidate. This one’s a given. Just as you’d carefully interview a babysitter for your kids or a personal assistant for your business, you should take the time to discuss your prospective contractor’s experience, work philosophy, and vision. In the initial interview, you should ask your contractor to provide you with a portfolio and list of previous clients and projects

Examine portfolios closely. Your contractor’s portfolio should have plenty of examples of projects in your area that are similar to your own. A contractor with experience in your type of home improvement project will be able to mastermind a remodel that accommodates your needs, complies with local building codes, and anticipate any complications that might arise

Call up references and visit projects in person. While reviewing their resume is a good way to get an initial idea of your prospective contractor’s work and areas of expertise, the only way to truly get a feel for their craftsmanship and skill level is to visit their project in person. Ask your contractor to provide at least three verifiable references to past clients with projects similar to yours. Contact these references, and ask if you can do a walk-through of the remodeled area

Ask about permitting. Whether you are installing outlets, knocking down a wall, or remodeling a bathroom, the vast majority of home improvement projects will require a permit. Your contractor should take care of the process of obtaining a permit for you, from drawing up permit-ready plans to submitting the necessary documents. Beware of contractors who try to convince you that you don’t need a permit—this is often a red flag that he or she is trying to cut corners.

Advantages Of Commercial Electrical Remodel In Home Improvement

Comments (0)

Electricians – What They Do

Electricians install and maintain all of the electrical and power systems for our homes, businesses, and factories. They install and maintain the wiring and control equipment through which electricity flows. They also install and maintain electrical equipment and machines in factories and a wide range of other businesses.

Electricians usually start their work by reading blueprints – technical diagrams that show the locations of circuits, outlets, load centers, panel boards, and other equipment. After determining where all the wires and components will go, electricians install and connect the wires to circuit breakers, transformers, outlets, or other components and systems.

When installing wiring, electricians use handtools such as conduit benders, screwdrivers, pliers, knives, hacksaws, and wire strippers, as well as power tools such as drills and saws. Later, they use ammeters, ohmmeters, voltmeters, harmonics testers, and other equipment to test connections and ensure the compatibility and safety of components.

Maintenance electricians repair or replace electric and electronic equipment when it breaks. They make needed repairs as quickly as possible in order to minimize inconvenience. They may replace items such as circuit breakers, fuses, switches, electrical and electronic components, or wire.

Electricians also periodically inspect all equipment to ensure that it is operating properly and to correct problems before breakdowns occur.

WHAT ARE COMMERCIAL ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS?

Commercial electricians generally handle the installation and maintenance of electrical components in businesses. This includes office buildings, housing developments, hospitals, and schools. These typically involve security systems, air conditioning systems, cabling, lighting, and other equipment.

Commercial electrical installations are very different from residential ones in several essential ways.  In business premises, new wiring remains fully accessible and out in the open, typically safeguarded by conduits to protect against hazards.

Electrical wiring in business premises uses thermoplastic materials featuring nylon high resistance coating inside the conduit to protect wiring. If flammable liquids, gases, or other hazardous substances are in the environment, the electrician will make sure wiring and outlets are installed a safe distance away from these components. Depending on the potential hazards nearby, special insulation might be used to further shield the wiring.

The majority of commercial installations require 3-phase power installation. This involves a 208-volt wide leg with a neutral wire and two 120-volt legs. These voltage qualities are essential to keep motors and wiring operating properly in commercial environments.

The Importance of Electricians in Industries

To become an industrial electrician takes commitment to education and apprenticeship before you are trained to master the trade and get a job. Once you do, you’re on the path to a rewarding career. You know the rules and regulations to work with different industries and have the expertise and experience to work with industrial systems and machinery. You ensure that businesses continue to receive power to function productively.

Responsibility

As an electrician at an industrial site, clients trust you with installing electrical power and systems, telecommunications, fire and security systems and electronic controls. Your job involves installing wiring, servicing electrical equipment and installing equipment. The electrical work you perform could include new work, additions, a change to a job already done, maintenance of equipment or repair work for a faulty condition.

Skills

In the industrial sector, your job as an electrician is critical to support the growth in the construction industry, steel production, manufacturing and electrical power companies. Through your apprenticeship, you develop skills to interpret drawings and blueprints and understand electrical code specifications. You will have the skills to install, replace and repair wiring, conduits, lighting and other fixtures and electrical components. You can expect to work full-time or in shift-work.

Outlook

Your role as an electrician is important in the construction industry as well as the manufacturing sectors to maintain and replace older equipment. With government approval, the emergence of solar and wind alternative power generation will require installation services and links to power grid connections. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the factory sector provides the most stable employment for electricians. Acquiring a wide variety of skills will open opportunities for you in various industries.

Education

To become an industrial electrician, after completing your high school diploma, you should complete a four-year apprenticeship program requiring at least 144 hours of technical training and 2,000 hours of paid practical training. In class, you will learn industrial electrical theory, blueprint reading, electrical code requirements and safety and first-aid practices as well as training in soldering, communications, fire alarm systems and elevators. This training will qualify you to do both construction and maintenance work. Each state has its own requirements to practice.

What is a electrical installation condition report or periodic inspection?

An Electrical installation condition report or Periodic Inspection is an inspection on the condition of an existing electrical installation, to identify (in order of priority) any deficiencies against the national safety standard for electrical installations.

Why is a electrical installation condition report or periodic inspection needed?

Every electrical installation deteriorates with use and age. It is critical to maintain these installations to ensure that the safety of users is not put at risk and that  installations remain in a safe and serviceable condition.

When is a electrical installation condition report or periodic inspection needed?

In section periods depends on the premise type. It is recommended that Electrical installation condition reports or periodic inspection and testing is carried out at least every:

  • 5 years for commercial properties.  This can either consist of a 100% inspection every 5 years or broken down to rolling programme of 20% inspections every year.  Using the latter method ensures that the installation is checked once a year for faults.
  • 10 years for domestic properties.

What qualifications or licenses do residential and commercial electricians need?

Unlike other construction-type jobs, electrical work requires more extensive education and licensing requirements. Electricians must work as apprentices for a period before they can become licensed electricians. It does not matter whether an aspiring apprentice wants to specialize in either a commercial or residential electrical work. Becoming a licensed electrician requires three steps:

  • Complete a four-year apprenticeship program.
  • Complete one year of formal training and work under a journeyman electrician for hands-on training.
  • Once an apprentice completes their formal training, they must pass two location-specific exams to receive their license and master electrician certificate.

Once an apprentice completes these three steps, they will have the required licenses to practice their trade on their own without the supervision of a journeyman electrician. It’s important to note that different states and local governing bodies will have different sets of licensing requirements for electricians. Some states will require more extended periods of working under a journeyman electrician which can influence when and how an apprentice can become authorized to wire either commercial or residential buildings.

Points To Remember While Planning For Residential Cleaning

Comments (0)

Reasons Why Franchising Is an Attractive Option for Entrepreneurs

When you look at some of the things that entrepreneurs want out of a new business, you will see that the franchise model offers many of these things. Are franchisees entrepreneurs? Get the answer to that question—and more—below.

6 Reasons Franchising Attracts So Many Entrepreneurs

Entrepreneur magazine put together a list of steps that first-time entrepreneurs need to take immediately to thrive.

The list includes steps like networking to connect with peers and finding the most effective methods of marketing and operating within your industry.

Franchises provide a ready-made business model

The article goes on to emphasize the importance of finding a functional business model that caters to the kinds of products and services that customers want, both now and in the future.

With Fully Promoted you’re getting the highest brand equity as a promotional marketing partner for all kinds of businesses. Furthermore, the promotional products industry is booming, generating tens of billions of dollars annually.

Franchises keep your skills sharp

In the Entrepreneur article mentioned above, first-time entrepreneurs are also encouraged to focus on continuing education in the form of mentorships, workshops, and seminars to keep their current skills razor-sharp and stay synced with industry best practice.

Guess what? All of the things just mentioned are offered by the franchise model in general and Fully Promoted in particular. Fully Promoted has partnered with the United Franchise Group for even more support, which means marketing and technical support are always available to franchisees.

Franchises have a recession-proof business model

Like everybody else, entrepreneurs are concerned about maximizing their potential return and minimizing risk. Know that there’s an inherent risk reduction and quicker time to market when you go with franchising—and many franchises are virtually recession proof.

Fully Promoted is likely such a franchise since it operates in a B2B environment with a robust customer base to weather almost any economic conditions.

Think about it: All businesses need signs and promotional materials to get customers’ attention. In fact, businesses arguably invest in marketing collateral more heavily when there’s a slowdown in business because they’re trying to bring in more customers!

Online ordering and around-the-clock access to your Fully Promoted business means that you win with other businesses.

Lower Startup Costs

Starting a new business from the ground up can be incredibly expensive. If you’ve got cash in the bank or have access to substantial loans, that won’t be a problem. Most entrepreneurs, especially when they’re starting out, don’t have access to that kind of money.

When you buy a business franchise, you’ll have fewer costs up front in many cases. Not all franchises are inexpensive, but in general, they are cost-effective investments.

Easier Financing

Almost everybody needs a little help when starting a business. Even if you have cash, using all of your own money may not be a wise move when you’re trying to get into business for yourself.

When you choose a business franchise instead of starting a company from the ground up, you’ll find that financing is often much easier to get through traditional banks. Many banks don’t want to take a chance on new small businesses, but a well-known franchise is a much safer bet for lenders.

Starting with a business franchise is a foot in the door and may help you expand down the road as an entrepreneur.

Name Recognition

A new business is exactly that to potential customers—new. When you start a business franchise, you’ll have the name recognition of an existing company. That can go a long way for a business owner.

When you have immediate name recognition, you’ll start with a built-in customer base that you can grow. You’ll also have the assumed trust of many customers because they know what to expect based solely on the sign outside.

You’ll still need to market and help your franchise grow in your area, but having the initial name recognition can be a huge asset for entrepreneurs who know how to promote their companies.

The Best Way To Get Clients For A Cleaning Business

Time for You domestic cleaning provides franchise owners with a shed load of support when it comes to marketing and promotions (more on that below)! However, to put your mind at rest on the topic of how to make a cleaning business successful, here are a few golden tips we’re happy to share.

Be Strategic & Organised

One of the important answers to the question “How to make a cleaning business successful?” is to use a Marketing Plan, but be ready to be spontaneous and grab hold of opportunities that come your way.

Having a plan helps to ensure that you keep up a steady flow of business promotion, such as regular email campaigns, leaflet distribution and “meet and greet” activities at places where parents gather.

A plan also keeps you focused, and helps you choose the right opportunities.

Two of the dangers when it comes to marketing a small business are not doing enough promotion, or doing it in all the wrong places, soaking up cash!

That’s not to say you can’t deviate from the plan when a good idea presents itself – such as a chance to hand out leaflets at a meeting, or a small ad in the school programme. Just make sure to return to that plan afterwards.

Don’t Underestimate Social Media!

The biggest weapon these days is a mobile phone! The vast majority of people have one, and use it to shop, comment, share, research and entertain themselves. You must have a strong profile across multiple social media channels to specifically promote your domestic cleaning business. if you can get happy clients to comment and review you, you’ll attract new customers faster than you can say jackpot!

Professional Help With Marketing A Cleaning Business

This may sound a lot to accomplish as you work from home managing your domestic cleaning franchise. The good news is, Time for You simplifies the process and provides free support every step of the way. This includes supplying our happy network of franchise owners with ready-made Marketing Plans to follow. You’ll never do any cleaning; and you can talk to any of our current franchise owners first so you know exactly what joining our team will bring you!

Know what you’re buying: 

The first step in reducing cleaning supply costs is to know and evaluate exactly what you are purchasing now. Some items are purchased that are not being used. You may also discover that you are purchasing more than one cleaning solution that is used for the same task. As we will discuss next, it is important to consolidate these items and minimize the number of items being purchased overall. That way you can keep better track of purchases.

Product consolidation: Traditionally, cleaning solutions were developed for a specific cleaning purpose. However, we now have many cleaning solutions that can multi-task. Eliminating all the “single task” cleaning solutions will not only help eliminate redundancies, which will result in a cost savings, but by selecting one product and purchasing it in larger quantities, you will likely be able to take advantage of rebates and product discounts.

What are the keys to making $100k with your cleaning business?

Keep the business small! That’s right, you may think you need 3 cleaners per house and do volume work for the best price, undermining the competition. That is typical and many cleaning services fall prey to this difficult path. That is a race to the bottom and a hell realm as well. The complexity and chaos that comes with running a volume cleaning service with 100 plus contracts it is not worth the stress in my experience. With residential cleaning all you need is yourself and two helpers to make the maximum profit for the minimum effort. See the Clean Up Now System to learn how.

Network, network, network.

Never rest. Don’t make the mistake of thinking once you have 30 steady clients you are all set. No! Now you want to inch up that price for all current clients and future clients. You do this by always keeping your pipeline full. High demand, high price. Always be marketing and networking your business even if you are booked up, especially if you are booked up.

Maximize profits on each client

This is simple and should be an obvious tactic, but hardly anyone does it. Offer other related services to your clients. They are already attached to you and need you on a regular basis. You do not have to find them, they are yours. It greatly simplifies their lives if there are other services you and your team can do for them during the same visit. See Clean Up Now System.

Pest Control Companies Are Best To Avoid Problem Of Pests

Comments (0)

Pest Control vs. Exterminators … What’s the difference?

What exactly is an exterminator and how does it differ from a pest management professional? Years ago your parents may have been quick to pick up the phone and say “I need these ants exterminated now!” The response was a very chemically invasive treatment that required them to be out of the house for hours, which during that time chemicals were pumped into the walls and the home was “bombed.” In the end, sometimes the treatments worked, but often they didn’t. Even when it worked, the ants often returned because the chemical treatment was just a Band-Aid and not a real solution.

For the longest time, and even still today, the thrill of the kill is what some people want to see when it comes to dealing with unwanted pests. They want to walk into a room that was treated aggressively with chemicals and see a massacre of dead cockroaches belly-up all over the floor. Homeowners may envision a terminator with a backpack filled with chemicals using the spray hose to spray chemicals throughout a home and then watch the bugs falling from the ceiling. That scene is what homeowners envisioned when dealing with various pests in their home.

The definition of exterminate is to “destroy completely,” also associated with the words “kill,” “put to death,” “erase from existence,” etc., hence why the imaginary scene of exterminators seems so profound with homeowners. While the word may suggest eradication of a pest population, rarely does this occur, which is fortunate for all of us because even pests play an important role in the environment and our planet’s ecology. Still we don’t want to see unwanted bugs and critters in our homes either because they have the ability to bite or sting us, can cause disease, damage our homes or belongings, or simply just be upsetting to see. This is where professional pest management comes into play. Pest problems must be managed in a way that keeps them out of our homes while protecting the environment, both inside our homes and in nature.

Exterminators and pest management professionals have several differences, although their goal of eliminating the pests may be similar. Exterminators rely on pesticides to eliminate the unwanted pests, using chemicals that could be more toxic than necessary whereas a pest control professional will focus on why the pests are present and look to alter the conditions that attracted them in the first place. If chemicals become necessary, the pest management professional will use more environmentally friendly products to get rid of the pests. Pest control companies tend to use products that are just as effective on the bugs but have little odor, are much less toxic to humans and pets and are applied in a very targeted fashion. Some treatments even completely eliminate the use of pesticides.  The biggest difference is that pest management professionals look for long-term solutions, rather than simply spraying chemicals to kill the pests you see.

Do it Yourself Pest Control VS. Professional Pest Control

In the recent years of the down economy, we have witnessed more people resorting to a do it yourself method of getting rid of bugs.  There are certain situations where we agree that do it yourself is a good alternative to hiring an exterminator.  If you spot a single bug such as a fly, yellow jacket, or ant, there is usually no need for a professional pest control company to come to your home.  But if you spot a termite, a bed bug, or any other insect that can cause damage to your family or your home, it is necessary to call an exterminator.

There are certain things that need to be considered when deciding to DIY or hire a professional:

Expense

DIY – A trip to the store and the purchase of chemicals is typically less expensive than hiring a pest control company.

Professional – Although the initial investment is more expensive with a professional, it may end up being the cheaper alternative.  If the in store pesticides are not effective they may result in the growth of your pest control problem.  Continuing to buy in store products can get expensive.  Not to mention the potential damage to your home that pests can cause.

Convenience

DIY – When doing it yourself, you can go to the store, purchase the pest control product, and apply it at your own convenience.

Professional – It can be a pain to find a time that is convenient for both you and your exterminator to meet at your home for a treatment.  More often than not, this is at the inconvenience of the customer.  However, a good exterminator will work with the homeowner to schedule the best time for them.

Knowledge

DIY – The instructions are on the label.  Not only can information be found on the label but it is very easy to go to the internet and do a research on the particular product or insect.  Be sure that all instructions are followed exactly as listed on the package.

Professional – An experienced and knowledgeable exterminator will be able to quickly identify and treat your problem.  They are also able to answer any questions that you have about prevention or other issues that you are experiencing.  Their experience and expertise can keep your home and family healthier than just reading the instructions on a label.

Risk

DIY – Chemicals of any kind can carry a risk.  Applying chemicals that you are not knowledgeable about could potentially cause harm to humans, pets, or plants in the area.  This is not to scare you but to remind you that we cannot stress enough the importance to read all instructions and follow all directions listed on the product label.

Professionals – By hiring an experienced and knowledgeable pest control company, most risk is removed from the homeowner.  Be sure to read all contracts and get reviews from past customers before hiring a pest control company.

What is bug repellent for the home?

There is nothing worse than having an insect infestation. But before you call your local exterminator, a quality bug spray may be all that you need to terminate the problem and go to sleep soundly again. An effective bug spray will help kill bugs and insect eggs in and around your home, and prevent any future insects from visiting your property. All you need to do is spray the repellent in and around your home and allow the area to dry before children and pets re-enter.

Preparing a Room for Bed Bug Treatment

Before you begin your own bed bug treatment, you will need to prepare the room or rooms where bed bugs have been found, in addition to rooms that share walls with the infested rooms. Remove any items in the room that you absolutely cannot treat or that have already been treated. Cover items that will be removed from the room in plastic bags before moving to the next room to prevent any unseen bed bug from infesting another room.

Remove any paintings or art from the walls. Be sure to thoroughly check any item that is removed from the room to prevent bed bugs from being transferred from room to room.

If you have a mattress that is heavily infested, we recommend covering it with a bed bug proof mattress cover or bed bug mattress encasement before moving. You will also need to cover your box spring with a box spring encasement.

If your mattress needs to be disposed of and replaced, be sure to cover the mattress with plastic before disposing to protect sanitation workers. Labeling a mattress or covering with “Bed Bugs” is also helpful.

Infested sheets, linens, and garments should be washed and then dried in a household dryer on high heat (over 120 degrees F), as the heat will kill bed bugs. Any garments that cannot be washed may need to be dry-cleaned or discarded as insecticides cannot be used on these materials.

If stuffed animals, books, or soft toys are infested, place those items in an air-tight bin along with vapor strips to kill the bed bugs.

How pest control works

Pest control is really a science. All of our technicians are trained and certified in this science so your home will be bug-free. In order to get your home to the tip-top shape that we want it to be in, we have to work with that science. Some bugs respond to treatments differently, which is why we always use multiple pesticides tailored to the specific bugs that you’re seeing.

Our pesticide works to draw bugs away from the home so that they never get inside. However, with the first treatment, we will also treat inside to kill off any egg sacs that may be lying around and any bugs that are still alive. Usually, this is all that’s needed to prevent bugs from coming into the home. With some bugs, like ants, we have to use a bait to kill off the colony. They eat the bait and take it back with them, so it can take a few days for them to die off.

In addition to our inside and outside spray and our ant bait, we also use granules in the yard. These granules kill off any bugs in the yard that may be messing with your grass. This also includes ant piles, which can be large colonies that eventually get into the home.

Bugs can be hard to kill because they have a thick exoskeleton that protects their bodies, which is why multiple pesticides are used to repel, kill, and prevent the bugs from getting near the home.

How You Can Help Your Divorce Lawyer

Comments (0)

Choosing a Divorce Lawyer

The outcome of your divorce proceedings will change the course of your life forever, so invest the time and money to find the lawyer who will do the best job for you. Here’s how to find the right divorce lawyer for your unique needs

Choosing a divorce lawyer to represent you may be the most important decision you’ll make during your divorce proceedings. Begin your search by talking to those you know: ask for recommendations from a close friend or family member (your friends and your family – not your spouse’s) who have been through divorce themselves. If you can’t get any personal recommendations, there are professional organizations that offer lawyer referral services, such as The American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers

“How much” lawyer do you actually need? The best (and most expensive) litigator money can buy, or someone who can handle the whole thing quickly and inexpensively? Is it important to find a lawyer who’s “compatible” with you: one who understands and respects your thoughts and feelings about your divorce? Your answers to these questions will be determined by your own unique circumstances, but here are some basic guidelines to help put you on the right track.

Choosing a Divorce Lawyer: Finding the Right One

As in any profession, there are good lawyers and bad lawyers. It’s up to you to do your homework – and to ask the right questions – to determine which group your lawyer falls into. The best lawyers will listen to your concerns, ask questions about what you hope to achieve, and give you an honest assessment of your chances of achieving your goals. At the end of your initial consultation, ask yourself whether you feel comfortable with this lawyer, and whether you respect each other’s positions and opinions.

When choosing a divorce lawyer, look for someone who:

Practices matrimonial or family law.

Has worked with – and can recommend – other professionals, such as forensic accountants, CDFA® professionals, business valuators therapists, and custody/parenting experts.

Has a lot of relevant experience. When choosing a divorce lawyer, look for one who has worked on many divorce cases similar to yours. If your lawyer is fresh out of law school, make sure he or she has an experienced mentor at the law firm – one with an excellent knowledge of divorce law – to go over your case.

Is a skilled negotiator. If your case can be settled without a protracted court battle, you’ll save a great deal of time, trouble, and money.

Is reasonable. You want someone who’ll advise you to settle if the offer is fair – not encourage you to have the case drag on to satisfy your need for revenge.

Is compatible with you. You don’t have to become best friends, but you must be comfortable enough with your lawyer to be able to share with him or her some deeply personal aspects of your life. If you can’t bring yourself to disclose information relevant to the case, you’ll be putting your lawyer at an extreme disadvantage. Your lawyer isn’t your therapist or confessor, but he or she does need to be aware of all pertinent facts in order to do a good job for you.

Is totally candid. Your lawyer should be up-front about what he or she thinks your divorce will cost, how a judge would be likely to rule on your issues, if there are holes or any problems with your case, and whether or not you have any aces up your sleeve.

Is not in conflict with your best interests. Don’t share a divorce lawyer with your spouse; don’t hire your spouse’s best friend, business partner, or any member of your spouse’s family to represent you – even if you’re on good terms with them. Aside from the obvious conflict of interest involved, you’ll have created enemies – and probably a whole new family feud – before your divorce settles.

Is more than a pretty face. This may seem painfully obvious, but given our frail human nature, it bears noting here: don’t choose a lawyer based on physical attractiveness. You’re looking for competence – not for a date on Saturday night

Tips for How to Choose a Divorce Lawyer Who Will Be Right for You

Why Choosing the Right Divorce Lawyer Matters

Every attorney has his or her own ideas, beliefs, philosophies, and ways of doing business. Every lawyer has his or her own approach to divorce.  Most importantly, every lawyer is good at some things, and not so good at others.

Some lawyers are amazing in court, but would make a total mess in a Collaborative Divorce. Others are great negotiators, but not particularly good trial lawyers. Some lawyers believe in mediation. Others think it’s a waste of time.

Different divorce lawyers excel at handling different types of divorces. Some divorce lawyers have strong financial backgrounds and are great at sorting out complicated financial issues. Others are better at managing high conflict divorces, or divorces involving a narcissist. Still others have streamlined their practices, and are set up to help people with limited resources get a divorce efficiently and cost-effectively

Decide what divorce process you want to use FIRST.

Most people start their divorce by hiring a lawyer. THEN they get divorced using whatever divorce process the lawyer signs them up for. The problem with approaching divorce that way is that you’ll either end up getting divorced in whichever way your lawyer (not YOU!) chooses, or you’ll end up with a lawyer who isn’t necessarily skilled at getting divorced the way that YOU want.

Decide what kind of legal service that you need.

While everyone who is going through a divorce needs legal advice (at least in my humble opinion!), not everyone needs a $500 per hour big city divorce law firm on their case.

Finding “The One”: How To Choose A Divorce Lawyer

Everyone has a favorite song, a food they hanker for above all others, and a particular set of preferences about personal style. There’s a reason Baskin-Robbins has 31 different flavors of ice cream—- each of us crazy, wonderful humans come with our own unique likes and dislikes.

As with ice cream and iPod playlists, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to choosing your divorce attorney. Divorce is one of the most personal experiences you can have. Standing naked in front of your spouse for the first time has got nothing on the feeling of vulnerability that comes with opening up about the questionable financial choices you may have made in your marriage, that time you flew off the handle at your toddler when you stepped on the nine millionth lego, or the evolution (ahem, deterioration) of your sex life.

The attorney who was the perfect fit for your neighbor, your sister, or your co-worker may not be right for you. And it may not just be a matter of personalities meshing: every divorce is as unique as the parties splitting, and finding a lawyer with experience in the specifics of your case— be it custody squabbles, property, or domestic violence— is key to setting up the New Normal that fits your unique goals.

First, the issues at play in your divorce. For instance: Do you have kids? You’ll need someone skilled at custody and child support issues. Own a business with your spouse? Tap someone who has experience with business valuation. If gaslighting, violence or intimidation were at play in your split, you absolutely need someone with experience in domestic violence. Jot down everything specific to your case

Second, you want to consider the type of working relationship you want to have with your attorney. Yes, most lawyers will do what’s necessary to handle your case, but the process will go much more smoothly if you select someone who is willing to develop a relationship with you based on how you’d like to interact with them. For instance, do you want a lawyer who will run the case and consult you as needed, or do you desire more involvement?

Tips For Selecting The Right Divorce Attorney

The selection of your attorney will likely be one of the most important factors in the outcome of your divorce. With such a massive pool of lawyers to choose from, making such an important decision can be extremely difficult — particularly since the needs of every case will be different. It will take a lot of research and time, but the choice of your legal representation should not be taken lightly.

Men seeking a divorce lawyer need to ensure their best interests will be kept at the forefront of the settlement negotiations, and finding an attorney that has plenty of familiarity dealing with similar situations is important. Here are a few things to look for when beginning your search for a divorce attorney.

Don’t simply pick the first lawyer you contact

It is vital that you do your homework and actually meet with several attorneys before you put down a large deposit to retain one. Trust is extremely important in the relationship you will develop with your attorney, and you need to meet them to get a feel for that initial first impression.

Talk to people you know who have been through divorce

It can be an awkward conversation to bring up, but talking to friends, family or coworkers who have been through divorce can give you a good place to start. Despite the ability of researching on the Internet, first-hand accounts are still a really good way to get quality information

Don’t assume that if you’re a man, only male attorneys can successfully represent you

The chance of your attorney’s gender impacting the outcome of your case is not very high. It is much more important to worry about finding a competent and dependable attorney that you feel comfortable being around. What should matter most is that you trust them to fight for your best interests, regardless of their gender

How To Choose A Divorce Attorney

A divorce is one of the most traumatic events in a person’s life, ranking right up there with the death of a loved one. A divorce is also one of the few times – and maybe the only time – a person has to deal with the court system.

Ending a disintegrating marriage is made more difficult by the complexity of the divorce process and the emotional stress of dealing with the issues of child custody and support and division of assets.

Understanding the legal process is as baffling as trying to understand complex medical procedures, and just as you need to trust your physician, you need to feel confident with your attorney during a divorce. Your divorce attorney must be a combination of therapist, confidant, clergy person and “legal eagle.” So, how do you find this person to whom you can entrust your future?

Get referrals from friends

If you have friends who have gone through a divorce, ask what they liked and disliked about their attorneys. Was your friend’s case as complex or less complex than your own? Was the attorney equally competent in handling emotional issues such as custody and “business” issues such as division of assets? Also, ask about the attorney who represented your friend’s spouse.

Meet with several attorneys

Schedule appointments with several attorneys for consultations, and let the attorney know you are in the interviewing process. Most attorneys won’t see you free of charge since they have only their time and advice to sell, but some offer discounts for the initial consultation.

Ask the right questions

When you meet with an attorney, bring a list of questions regarding your concerns in choosing an attorney as well as your personal concerns in the divorce case. Ask how the law firm bills its clients and ascertain the billing rates for each person who will be working on your case.

Hints To Help You Identify A Good Criminal Defense Attorney

Comments (0)

Tips To Choose the Best Criminal Defense Lawyer

There are over 1.3 million active attorneys in the United States. How do you begin to choose a lawyer when there are so many to choose from? They can’t all be great lawyers. Choosing a criminal defense lawyer is a big decision. Here are 5 tips to help you choose the best criminal defense lawyer for you.

The Best Criminal Defense Lawyer for You

Choosing a lawyer is not just about choosing the best criminal lawyer. Yes, you want to find a good criminal lawyer but you want the best one for you. That means you want one who is going to meet your needs and must understand the whole matter

A Lawyer with the Right Experience

Not all lawyers are the same. Some specialize in personal injury and others in criminal law. Even criminal lawyers may specialize. Some are newbie, some are experienced.

Check the Team

Preparing a case for the court is not a one-person job. Even a very good defense lawyer needs a team behind them. Check to see whether there are an administrative team, paralegals, and other criminal lawyers in Greensboro NC backing up your lawyer.

heck References

Find a good criminal lawyer and you will find a reputation to match. Ask friends and associates for recommendations. Ask for references and talk to previous clients.

Selecting a Criminal Defense Attorney

If you’ve been arrested for or charged with a crime—regardless of how serious—it’s a good idea to talk to an attorney. Depending on your financial situation, you might consider hiring a private criminal defense lawyer. (Another option, again depending on your finances, is court-appointed counsel; self-representation is also possible but usually a bad idea.)

Hiring a criminal defense attorney is an important decision and there are lots of attorneys who handle criminal cases. Below you’ll find some information that might help you navigate the process.

Don’t Delay

It’s usually best to talk to a criminal lawyer as soon as possible after being arrested. Although your first court date may be a ways out, finding a lawyer can take some time, and there might be things you can do in the meantime to improve the outlook of your case. For instance, if your case involves drugs or alcohol, an attorney might advise you to get into treatment or start going to 12-step meetings like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), even before going to court for the first time.

Finding the Right Attorney

Because there are so many criminal defense attorneys out there, the task of selecting one can be daunting. Here are some suggestions and considerations that might help you make the choice

Free Consultations

Most criminal defense attorneys offer prospective clients a free initial consultation. Taking advantage of this opportunity to meet the attorney and get some of your questions answered doesn’t obligate you to hire the attorney. But an in-person consult will often give you a good idea of whether you can work with a particular attorney or firm.

Tips for Choosing the BEST Criminal Lawyer

Whether you are facing theft, DUI or some other charge you need an experienced criminal attorney helping you fight your case. With countless lawyers to choose from, it can be difficult to find the one right for you. How do you know who to trust with your case and your life?

Choose a lawyer with a passion for the law. You don’t want a lawyer that is just doing their job representing you. You need a lawyer that loves their work. Look for an attorney that will listen to your story, show interest and fight for you

All experience is not the same. Years of experience working on tax law is not the same as courtroom experience defending those with charges similar to yours. Find a lawyer that specializes in your charges

Trust your feelings. How does your prospective lawyer make you feel? You want someone that will act as your advisor, explaining your options and then letting you choose. If your lawyer makes you uncomfortable or pressures you into making a decision, choose someone else.

It takes a village to raise a child and a strong legal team to prepare for court. Getting ready for court isn’t a one man job. Your attorney will rely on others as they work your case. Ask to meet the administrative staff, paralegals and other lawyers.

TIPS ON CHOOSING THE BEST CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY

Law is so large an entity that no definite word or phrase can actually define it. This is because there are different laws to cater to different situations of life. There is civil law, which is the law that relates to laws connected with personal relationships, marriages and interpersonal circumstances like a personal injury case. On the other hand, criminal law is that branch of law that defines a crime, the victim and the violator of the law.

As criminal law is a large branch in the field of law, this branch is again divided into two sections. Each of these sections has its own professional criminal defense lawyer. The first section of criminal law is criminal procedure, which defines how a trial has to be conducted. With criminal procedure law, it is proven how claims have to be examined and how proof of a crime has to be collected. The criminal defense attorneys who are experts in criminal procedures have a system of collecting evidence in favor of the client. As this criminal defense attorney is specific about the client’s rights of the law, they maintain the doctrine ‘innocent until proven guilty’ throughout the trial of the client.

Substantive criminal law is the other section of criminal law. The criminal defense attorney specializing in substantive criminal law works with the people charged with the crime. The criminal defense attorney is usually approached by the violator of the crime. However, sometimes, the lawyer may also be selected by the court to represent the client who may not be able to hire a lawyer because of financial circumstances. The criminal defense attorney has to meet the client, and the client has to relate the scene of the crime, giving true statements. Everything spoken here is and remains confidential. Then the criminal defense lawyer has to defend the client to help him or her achieve success in the court.

You can tell if the criminal defense attorney is a good one or not by his approach to a case. The good criminal defense attorney collects as much facts of the case from the client and the investigators. It is then up to him to create a strong case wherein the client will not be charged gravely. However, in the case of the client being truly guilty of the crime, then it is up to the criminal defense attorney to present the facts of the situation such that it is possible to maintain a doubt of guilt.

The good criminal defense attorney will try his level best to make the punishment allotted to the guilty client is befitting the crime done by the client. It is always better to get some testimonials on a lawyer before hiring the criminal defense attorney. Your friends and family is the best people to approach to find out information on the criminal defense attorney. The good criminal defense attorney is one who stands by the client till the end of the trial, to make sure that the client gets as favorable an outcome as possible.

How to Choose a Defense Attorney

Just like you wouldn’t visit a podiatrist to treat an ear infection, you shouldn’t go to a tax attorney if you want to sue the driver who rear-ended your car. There are many areas of law and a lot of different types of lawyers who deal with them. When your freedom is on the line, it’s important to seek the correct representation

But once you’ve narrowed down the list from all lawyers to only criminal defense attorneys, how do you choose? Here are some things to consider when selecting a defense lawyer

Where Do I Find a Defense Attorney?

Whether you are being investigated for a crime or have already been charged, you want to have the best criminal defense lawyer you can afford fighting for you. A good place to start is by asking people you trust for referrals, including friends (if you feel like you can talk with them about your case), family members, and non-criminal defense attorneys that you may know. These individuals are a great resource because, rather than just gathering a list of names, you can ask questions about their suggestions such as whether the attorney was on time for appointments, reasonably available to answer questions and organized.

If the thought of sharing personal details with acquaintances makes you uncomfortable, you can anonymously visit countless websites online. The American Bar Association has state-specific information and there are several professional associations specializing in criminal defense (the National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys, the Association of Federal Defense Attorneys and the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers are just a few). Independent legal referral websites also offer a ton of information.

Choosing One

Once you’ve narrowed down the list, it’s often time to set up face-to-face meetings, although in a pinch (for example, if you get arrested and taken to jail one night and have your first court appearance the next day) much can be done over the phone or via video conference such as FaceTime or Skype. Many lawyers offer a free initial consultation. Bring along a summary of your case with details such as when you were arrested, the circumstances of the arrest, what the charges are and whether anyone else was involved. This consultation should help you understand the charges, what the prosecutor must prove or establish to find you guilty, the available defenses, any key pretrial issues, what plea bargains might be offered and the possible consequences you may face. It is important to have a lawyer who puts in sufficient time to learn about your case and plan your defense, so if you don’t feel comfortable with his or her analysis, that may be a red flag. While a lawyer can give you an idea of possible outcomes, he or she cannot promise a certain result. Any criminal defense attorney that does is not someone you should choose, because the result cannot be guaranteed in advance – it hinges on negotiations with the prosecutor at best, and a judge and jury at worst.

Tips To Choose The Best Commercial Roofing

Comments (0)

Tips When Selecting A Commercial Roofer for Your Property

As a property owner and business person, you must be careful and selective about everything. This includes choosing the best employees, finding the right supply chain and selecting a top quality vendor like a commercial roofer.

Your commercial roofer should have the proper licenses, certificates and affiliations.

They must provide proof that they are licensed to practice in your state and that all paperwork is up to date. This includes having insurance, worker’s compensation and liability coverage. These things are vital if there is ever an accident while they are performing work on your property. It’s also important that all employees who will work on your commercial roof be trained and certified, not just the owner. Additionally, since it’s a commercial building, you are subject to regular inspections and you need to know that you have done everything possible to ensure your roof is sound and will pass these inspections. You can find information from the department of licenses in your state. Get copies of all paperwork to protect yourself and your company.

Ask for referrals.

Every company will say they are the best but the only real proof of that is a satisfied customer. You can ask friends, business associates and other businesses in your area. To get an accurate idea of what your experience with the commercial roofer will be like, make sure that the referral has had work done recently and that their building is similar to yours. Also, remember to ask about friendliness of staff, how well they communicate and whether follow up work was needed before the job was done satisfactorily. Be sure to ask for a portfolio of their previous work. You can also ask the company for a list of references. Don’t just ask for the list; take the time to actually call each one

Make sure they have expertise in all commercial roofing matters.

It would be a hassle if you have to hire multiple companies to work on one roof. For instance, if you have an older roof, you don’t want a commercial roofer who has no experience handling all the issues associated with this kind of roof. That means they will likely have to subcontract the job to different companies, leaving you at risk for mistakes and problems that can arise from working with unknown companies.

Remember that the lowest bidder is not always the greatest value.

In your desire to save money, it’s tempting to select the company with the lowest estimate. However, beware. Some of these companies use subpar materials and cut corners in order to outbid competitors. This will end up costing you more money in the long run and, in extreme cases, can lead to total roof failure.

Tips on Choosing Good Commercial Roofing

It is vital that you provide your investments with ample protection against harsh climate. That said, it can be challenging to decide which roof would best provide you with the peace of mind that you need.

Choose a Durable Roofing Material

There are many kinds of commercial roofing in the market and it can be confusing to pick the one that you can truly rely on. When it comes to roofing, however, you can never go wrong with choosing a durable product. Apart from water restoration in Lincoln, NE, we offer thermoplastic roofing that is resistant to extreme temperatures and can last for 20 years. These can also withstand strong winds and punctures, despite unpleasant weather conditions.

Choose an Energy-Efficient Roof

It can be tricky to manage your company’s budget. As much as possible, you want to save and earn more than you spend. Fortunately, we offer PV solar panels that can help you do just that. These roofing systems absorb sunlight and use it to generate energy for your business. These help keep your energy costs low while promoting comfort in your workspace.

Tips For Choosing Commercial Roofing Contractors

Do your homework

Checking out your options before hiring a roofing contractor to service your company building is important. Inquire about a perspective roofer’s background, whether or not they are licensed and insured, how long they have been in business, etc

Ask around

Many businesses obtain a majority of their work through word-of-mouth, which can be a great way for you to find a reliable roofing company. Ask other businesses in the area to recommend a good Atlanta roofer, which will make your search easier.

Ask for references

Asking for references is a good idea and if a commercial roofing company hesitates to provide you with references upon request, then you should steer clear. A reputable roofing company will not hesitate and will be proud to provide you with former customers who can vouch for the quality of their work

Check with the BBB

Although not all businesses are members with the Better Business Bureau, it’s a good idea to check with this agency before hiring a company. Even if a company isn’t listed, there could still be complaints that have been filed with the BBB, which could be helpful when it comes to ruling out perspective commercial roofers

Request portfolios

It might be a good idea to ask to see portfolios of work that perspective roofers have done in the past. A professional commercial roofer will be proud to show off his or her work and this can help you narrow down your possibilities further.

How to choose a good commercial roofing contractor

With so many commercial roofing contractors (also known as ‘flat roofing contractors’) out there, how do you choose a good one? What do you ask them, or look for, to find out if they are trustworthy, reliable, and do quality work? When on-line reviews can be faked, and when the company can say anything they want on their own website, how can you research the company yourself?

Is the commercial or flat roofing contractor licensed?

If a commercial roofing contractor is licensed, it means they have been granted a trade license as required by local laws. In Colorado, roofers are not licensed at the state level. To become licensed, the roofing company must pass business practice and trade skill tests, pay a fee, and prove they are insured and/or bonded.

Do they have experience?

If the commercial roofing contractor doesn’t have experience, you don’t want them to ‘cut their teeth’ on your roof. When a roofer is just starting-out, if they use your roof as their training grounds, you can bet mistakes will be made, and you will pay the price. Save yourself the headache and keep looking for someone with more experience.

Are they a member of a roofing association?

It’s not easy to be a member of a reputable roofing organization or association. If a commercial roofing contractor is a member, that means they’ve met certain criteria

Is the contractor certified or qualified?

Just like becoming a member of a roofing association, it takes a lot to become certified or qualified or ‘preferred’. Take Owens Corning, for example. In addition to the above items, to become a Preferred Contractor with them, the company must also have no legal actions or judgements during the past 5 years, and no personal or business bankruptcies during the past 7 years. To find out if a commercial roofing contractor is a Preferred Contractor of Owens Corning, use their “Find a Roofing Contractor” page.

Tips to Follow When Selecting Your Commercial Roofer

Choosing the right person for the job isn’t an easy task. There are many offers and contractors out there and homeowners might get lost during the whole process.

License and  Insurance

The two most important things you should ask for when selecting your commercial roofer are license and insurance. The former is more crucial than the latter since there are many cases where non-licensed roofers still manage to get the job done.

Do Some Research

The Internet makes research extremely easy. To check someone’s work, you just need to follow up on their social media accounts. LinkedIn and Facebook would be great places to start, but you can also check reviews on sites like Angie’s List, Homestars and Yelp.

Warranties

Your roof is as good as the warranty. Hiring somebody that doesn’t offer warranties isn’t a smart move. Additionally, you should read them in detail in case something isn’t mentioned or just doesn’t seem right. When you are talking about warranties

Offers & Services

Of course, hiring an up-to-date firm is very important. Roofs dictate curb appeal and energy efficiency thus directly influencing your home’s value. You wouldn’t want a roofing company that is outdated and that offers “old school” solutions to modern contracting problems.