May 2020

How To Perform A Final Move In Cleaning After Construction Or Renovation

Moving in? Read Our Easy Move-In Cleaning Checklist

Start fresh in your new home by following our professional move-in cleaning checklist. Plus you’ll learn how to make your home chemical and allergen-free from the beginning, and get our top tips for preventing mess build-up in living areas and the kitchen.

Should you clean your house before moving?

Your place is brand new or freshly vacated, so it should be clean, right? Not necessarily. If the house has just been built a whole home clean is necessary to remove any remaining dust or chemical residue that comes with construction.

What is a professional move-in cleaning checklist?

A professional move-in cleaning checklist is useful regardless of whether you choose to clean-it-yourself or use a move-in cleaning service. By referencing a checklist, you can be sure that no crack or crevice goes uncleaned.

How to clean a new bedroom

Cleaning bedrooms thoroughly before you move-into a new house is important as you’ll be exposed to any lingering allergens here when you sleep. As with all rooms, we would recommend working from top to bottom so you can easily keep track of what areas you have already cleaned and avoid transferring dirt to previously cleaned areas.

Cleaning a bathroom before you move-in

Old bathrooms can be problematic to clean if the previous tenants didn’t clean regularly. It’s a good idea to closely inspect your bathroom for mold, damp areas or damage (eg. holes in grout) before you move-in as it will be easier to address these issues while the bathroom is empty

 

MOVE IN & MOVE OUT CLEANING

Are you Moving?

Moving into or out of a home is the mark of an exciting transition in life, but it can be a very stressful time. There’s so much to take care of, with everything from packing to decorating your new home and everything in between. One of the biggest pains of moving is cleaning your former or new house to prepare it for sale or the big move-in day.

Move-Out Cleaning

If you’re moving out, it’s always a good idea to clean up your house or apartment, either to make it spotless for the new occupants or to ensure you get your security deposit back. It’s also important to clean the house if you are putting the home on the market and need it spotless for pictures and open houses. No matter the reason, your former home should be just as clean as when you moved in, if not more.

Classic Move-Out Cleaning

Do you have a tighter budget but need to satisfy the conditions of your sale or lease with a basic cleaning? ***

Was your old home well maintained, with mild to moderate build up in the kitchen, bathrooms, and floors?

Premium Move-Out Cleaning

Are you preparing for Open Houses or a photo shoot?

Was your old home rarely cleaned, with heavy build up in the kitchen (grease, crumbs, fingerprints, mold), bathrooms (soap scum, mold, hair/fur, fingerprints, etc.), and floors (bugs, shoe prints, splatters)?

Beyond satisfying the conditions of your sale or lease, do you want to get a thorough cleaning performed for the new owners or tenants?

Move-In Cleaning

Moving into a home has the promise of a fresh start, a new beginning. However, there’s a lot to arrange before you move in, including cleaning and preparing your new home for new furniture and new occupants. In all the chaos of moving, you might not have time to make a trip out to the new house to prep it for the move-in.

 

Easy Tips for a Move-In Apartment Cleaning

There’s no better way to start your life in a new home than cleaning your apartment like a pro before moving in. This is a crucial step because you can never know how clean your new place actually is. In addition, cleaning it after you’ve moved in would be more difficult and time-consuming.

How clean should an apartment be before moving in?

When moving into a new home, you shouldn’t neglect the importance of move in cleaning. This step is crucial for preparing the apartment for your family and ensuring that you move into a healthy, clean and fresh environment.

Professional cleaning standards

If you decide to hire professional move in/out cleaners in Mobile to help you out, you’ll be glad to hear that your new home will be squeaky clean. These cleaning professionals follow the highest hygiene standards, so your apartment will be cleaned to the last detail. What’s more, trusted expert cleaners employ sustainable cleaning practices, so they can remove all the allergens, toxins and chemical residue that previous tenants might have left. So, if you’re still wondering how clean your new home should truly be, try to meet the experts’ norms.

How do you do a moving in cleaning?

Move in cleaning isn’t a simple task since it’s more demanding than regular cleaning. You need to pay attention to some areas you might otherwise neglect or use more effective cleaning supplies.

Here are a few helpful cleaning tips that can make your move-in clean-up more organized:

Clean from the top. Cleaning from the top down is the most efficient way to deal with dust. This way, you won’t have to go back to re-clean the areas, but simply work your way down from the ceiling fans and lighting fixtures to the floors.

Deep clean the cabinets and closets. Rarely do people consider the interior of their cabinets and closets. Yet, it’s a must-do task on professional cleaning checklists for a reason.

Disinfect the bathroom. Since this area requires a thorough scrub, don’t skip anything. Be as meticulous as possible, dealing with every single spot. You should also replace the toilet seat.

Tackle the appliances. Kitchen appliances also require special cleaning attention, so make sure to deep clean them. The fridge, sink, oven and microwave should be disinfected, but make sure to use a product that won’t damage the finish

 

Move Out Cleaning or Move In Cleaning

Whether you’re renting your home or apartment and hoping to get your deposit back, or you’re a property owner preparing the space for the next inhabitants, keeping on top of the cleaning is important. If you’re about to move out of an apartment at the end of your lease, you want to leave things looking better than you found them. And if you want to be sure prospective tenants are rushing to give you their first month’s check, the best way to do that is to make the place sparkle. Luckily, we are here to help with move out cleanings and move in cleanings!

Experienced

Not only can booking move out cleaning services through save you money, but it can save you time and buy you peace of mind, too. Instead of trawling through Craigslist or getting the opinion of a friend of a friend of a friend on which move out cleaning services to use, you’ll find all the information you need on the platform, from biographies to testimonials. Whether you’re a property owner or a tenant, using to find the best one-time cleaning services can significantly reduce the stress involved in moving.

Skilled and Capable

Whether you use the website or the app, will connect you to the best move out cleaning professionals in your area. You’ll be able to see their reviews and ratings, so you’ll know that they’re up to the task of cleaning your place, no matter how much junk you’ve accumulated since you moved in!

Reliable

Using to source the best move out cleaning service for your needs is the best way to ensure that you leave your old home spotlessly clean. For renters, this is a great way to safeguard against unexpected bills at the end of a lease. Using to connect with move out cleaning professionals ensures that you can’t be billed for any clean-ups that need to be done after you’ve left.

Flexible

Is easy to use, whether you go to the website or use the app. Enter your zip code and the size of the property to be cleaned and you’ll instantly receive quotes from the best move out cleaning professionals in your area. There’s no need to worry about buying brooms or cleaning supplies: the move out cleaning service providers you book will come fully equipped and ready to go to work.

 

MOVE-IN CLEANING CHECKLIST

You bought or signed a lease on a new home and as the date approaches to move in your things, you realize the house or apartment might need some cleaning before you get settled. This guide has everything you need to know about starting off on the right foot with a freshly cleaned space.

How to Clean a House Before You Move In

We recommend cleaning before you move anything into your new home, as the cleaning will come much easier without all your belongings filling the space. If you won’t have time to clean the space yourself (with everything else to take care of in the transition), consider hiring a move-in cleaning service.

If you choose to handle the job yourself, we recommend considering following these steps:

Start with the fridge. Having a clean space to store your food is incredibly important. Consult our refrigerator cleaning tips for help accomplishing this task.

Once the fridge is clean, move on to the rest of the kitchen. Clean from top to bottom and make sure all of the appliances are thoroughly cleaned. Don’t worry about the floors.

How To Become One Of The Best Immigration Lawyer

How to choose an immigration attorney?

Once you decide to consult with an immigration attorney, you will face a challenge of selecting an attorney who is right for you

If you are not living in a big city, there may be few immigration attorneys to choose from. You may go for a phone consultation with an immigration attorney if you just have a few questions and your case is not pending in immigration court. You may send your papers by e-mail to an immigration attorney in San Francisco for review. Immigration attorneys in San Francisco give consultations by phone or skype, accept credit card payments over the phone.

Please keep in mind that not all the people who will try to help you with immigration issues are in fact immigration attorneys. There is a lot of immigration fraud in the Russian and Hispanic communities in big cities all over the United States.

Immigration attorney Lena Korial-Yonan in her article 6 Tips on How to Choose the Best US Immigration Lawyer for Your Case says that you should pay attention primarily to the immigration attorney’s education. She goes on to say “How can you tell the best from the average immigration lawyer? You must first look at their education. Specifically, you need to find out when comparing lawyers which law school he or she graduated from and whether they had any special accomplishments in law school.”

After law students graduate from law school they take a licensing exam also called Bar exam. The requirements and difficulty of the bar exam differ from state to state. It is believed that the California bar exam is the hardest in the United States. In July of 2012 only 55% of students passed California bar exam, while in Missouri 90% of exam takers passed. The ranking of states’ bar exams by difficulty can be found here

 

Best Tips When Choosing Immigration Lawyers

If you are that person who is thinking of moving to another country, then you will often need to apply for individual documents and visas to be legally allowed to work or live there. Applying for permits can often be a stressful and time-consuming experience. If you want the whole thing to run smoothly, then it is best to hire the help of a specialist immigration lawyer. They will have the tools and the expertise to support you along every step of the process. With so many different agents out there it can be tough to know who will be best for your needs.

CHECK PROMINENT LAWYER’S WEBSITES

Many sites are there online which could give you good lawyer referrals. Some favorite sites can be viewed online, which provide rankings of lawyers about immigration and green card visas. There is data on these locations, which is helpful. So you can find some useful information about attorneys. Checking the ratings is a great way to arrive at a decision about the lawyer whose services you may want to engage

Check client reviews

Once you zero in on a particular lawyer or law firm, try to Google for more information and view how they are rated. Clients always give reviews to these lawyers, and these reviews would help you understanding how good they do their work. Do not just rely on the number of reviews and decide, but do take the time to read each review carefully. These client opinions matter a lot, as they are full of insights about the lawyers and their performance

The cost of their service

How much does the lawyer charge for their services? Some lawyers charge hourly, while others will charge a set rate for completion of an entire job. You should always be entirely clear on the fees that they charge so that you are not left with any nasty surprises when it comes to paying your bill.

Look closely to their services they offer

What services do they offer? Many Immigration lawyers will be able to deal with a range of issues relating to immigration law. If you require something a little more unique, then you may have to search for a specialist type of lawyer

 

Hiring A Lawyer

The process of immigrating to the United States is one of the most important life experiences many people will go through in their lives. Moving countries is usually complex and stressful and the consequences of failing to plan properly can lead to nightmare scenarios. It is not a surprise, therefore, that many people turn to immigration lawyers to assist with immigrating.

Do you need a lawyer?

The old saying “He who represents himself has a fool for a lawyer” applies to immigration law like many other types of legal matters. Immigration law, particularly American immigration law is one of the most politically divisive areas of the legal system and it is therefore not surprising that it has grown incredibly dense and is constantly changing. No fewer than three major agencies administer the US immigration system and dozens of other agencies play a role. Many people turn to agencies like the US Citizenship and Immigration Service and the US Department of State to determine how to immigrate to the US.

Even if you can manage to succeed filing the application yourself, your lack of experience could lead to mistakes that can be costly in terms of time and money. If you have to hire a lawyer later, your mistakes may limit your options and immigration lawyers are likely to charge more to clean up the mess.

What about people that call themselves “immigration consultants”?

In most states, people who work as immigration consultants are violating the law by practicing law without a license. Because these individuals are operating illegally, their work is not regulated and you do not have the same recourse available to go after someone who is dishonest or incompetent.

What to look for in your lawyer

There are a number of factors to consider when hiring an immigration lawyer and with more than 7,500 immigration lawyers practicing in the US, the process of selecting just the right lawyer can be difficult

 

DO I NEED AN IMMIGRATION LAWYER?

There are many compelling reasons to hire an immigration lawyer to meet your immigration needs.

Significance of the Process

First and foremost in the minds of my clients is the recognition that the result of the immigration process can literally be life-changing and that it can impact their families for generations.

Ease in Which Mistakes Are Made

The U.S. immigration system is commonly known to be extremely complicated–the Tennessee Bar Association has noted that it is second only to the federal tax code in complexity

Potentially Devastating Consequences

Every year I see people who are looking for solutions to consequences that resulted from a mistake they made in the immigration process. Most of the time the solution–if there is a solution–costs them more time, money, and anxiety than if they had hired an immigration lawyer in the first place.

Questions To Ask Before Choosing Your Immigration Lawyer

How long have you practiced immigration law?

How long have you been a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association?

Do you limit your practice of law to immigration? If not, what percentage of your practice is immigration?

Will you provide a written fee agreement?

Will you explain to me exactly what my immigration status is and the process you will be undertaking on my behalf?

Will you respond to my communications promptly?

Will I have access to the immigration attorney or just to his/her staff?

 

Why hire an Immigration Lawyer?

Immigration law was setup to create a set of rules by the federal government to determine who is allowed to enter the country and also the length of their stay. Immigration law also helps the government manage the process to allow immigrants to apply to be a U.S. Citizen.

An immigration Lawyer defends their client’s case and help prevent them from being deported to their country of origin. They also spend their time helping their clients to become a citizen of a new country. Becoming a citizen in another country can be complex and an Immigration Lawyer can be helpful to gather the the documentation their client may need to become a citizen. At times, they will provide legal advice about how their clients can obtain a work visa for a specific period of time.

Being in a different country and trying to become a citizen can be overwhelming. LinkedIn ProFinder can make that process easier. Their are plenty of experienced and knowledgeable Immigration attorneys in your local area who would love to assist you with any case you may have and to make sure that you have the best representation.

Top Home Remodelling Projects For A High ROI

Fix Up or Buy New: What’s Your Best Housing Option?

This is a question with no one-size-fits-all answer, although most families can make the decision with a bit less drama than is normal in a popular TV series that profiles families debating whether to make over or sell their homes.

The most important issue is location. Is staying in your current neighborhood important to you, and, if so, does the kind of home you want exist in that neighborhood? If not, can you legally create that ideal home on your budget?

The second major question is budget: Is it more economical to renovate your current house or buy another one? The answer to this question will depend upon your home, your budget and your needs. In cities where homes are less expensive, it is often cheaper to buy than to build. In cities and neighborhoods that are in high demand, it may be cheaper to build an addition or renovate outdated spaces.

Here are 5 questions to ask yourself when deciding whether to renovate your existing house or find a new home.

Can you renovate within the current footprint? Renovating within the home’s existing footprint generally costs 50 percent less, says Cannon Christian, president of Renovation Realty in San Diego, which handles renovations for homeowners who are selling their homes. Be careful about garage conversions because they are considered an improvement in some neighborhoods but a detriment in others, he warns. And, there are times an addition is cheaper than modifying existing space, Wilson says, since existing space contains old problems that need to be corrected.

Do you want to live through a renovation? Renovations cause dust, noise and disruption for weeks or even months, and they always take longer than the initial contractor’s estimate. If you’re redoing your kitchen, for example, you may be without a sink or stove for several months.

Can you legally do the renovations you want? Every municipality has building rules, including ones regulating how much of the lot you can cover, whether you can add a second story and how close structures can be to the property line. Permits are required for major renovations, and renovations also can trigger a requirement that existing elements, like outdated electrical panels, be brought up to current building standards.

Does the renovation make sense for your home’s value? Putting a $100,000 kitchen into a $150,000 home never makes sense, but updating a 1970s kitchen with new cabinets and countertops probably does. Never make renovations that are disproportionate to the value of your home.

How does your home compare with others in your neighborhood? If an addition will make your home much larger than others in the neighborhood, it may add less value.

 

Remodeling

While your current home may seem drab at times, remodeling the space allows you create new spaces, update its function to meet your needs and create an ideal home, depending on your budget. However, it comes with a lot of disadvantages that may or may not be worth the investment.

Advantages

  1. Costs less: The cost to remodel your home is less than buying a new home because it’s on a room-by-room basis. You don’t have to remodel everything in your home, which means your budget can flow with what you need to do. Moreover, there are ways to save money on your renovations so that you get a great end product without spending a fortune.
  2. Personal touch: Renovating allows you to change your existing home to meet your personal expectations and desires, as compared to buying a new home that may have a few features you want but not at all. Why spend hundreds of thousands on a new house and update it when you can keep your old home and update it a little at a time?

Disadvantages

  1. Not for major overhauls: If your home needs a complete do-over, then a remodel isn’t for you. It’s not worth the investment to spend thousands of dollars to change every single room in your home when you could buy a new house with all of the updates. It’s better to renovate a few rooms in your house rather than all of them. It’s also not worth it to remodel your house if you’re trying to downsize.
  2. Financing issues: Remodeling requires a homeowner loan, family loan, payments to contractor or vendor loans. You must have home equity, so if you haven’t lived in your home for a long time, it could be hard to get approved.
  3. Construction: Remodeling means your home will be in shambles for days to weeks as the room is updated. You can choose to stay in a hotel — which means spending a few extra dollars — or stay in your home. It’s a bit stressful and loud — and it requires patience, which not every homeowner has.

 

$7,000

For many people, the kitchen — often a relatively large space — is their first thought. It’s a room that’s used frequently and that might have a public function, as well. Unfortunately, $7,000 doesn’t go far when it comes to replacing old appliances with shiny new ones. But if you’re willing to do some of the work yourself, it’s still possible to have a considerable effect.

“You can redo the kitchen counters and paint the cabinets to refresh the look. It’s not a full remodel, but gives you a fresh space.

You’d have to paint your own cabinets — “If you hire someone, it’s almost as much [money] as getting new cabinets, Although it’s tedious, it’s not particularly hard work. The bulk of the money can be spent on countertops, which, depending on the size of the kitchen, could be low-budget Ikea butcher block, granite or somewhere in between. And if there’s money left over, you can add a simple peel-and-stick tile backsplash or a cute light fixture to gussy things up.

The same amount could be used to upgrade a small bathroom, taking it down to the studs and adding new tile, redoing the shower and upgrading the fixtures. At that price range, the renovation wouldn’t be fancy, but it could include several new elements.

But $7,000 can also be used strategically for a more subtle but impactful result. If your house has hardwood floors that are old, scratched or otherwise not at their best, you could hire someone to refinish them. Once the furniture goes back in, every room would look a little fresher.

Or, you could use the funds for a twofold improvement that similarly brightens up the house. First, paint the home’s interior. Then hire a designer to help improve the lighting, particularly in more public spaces such as the living and dining rooms, where good lighting can enhance the space. “In over 20 years of working with clients, I have yet to walk into a home that was properly lit.  “Most of us are mostly home at night, when there’s very little light. That’s why lighting is so impactful.”

 

Reasons Why Renovating Is Better Than Buying a New Home

You can enjoy the updates. When you prepare your home for sale, your real estate agent may recommend updates — from minor fixes to a major overhaul — that will help increase your home’s value. But rather than making updates just before putting your house on the market in hopes of boosting your return on investment, consider renovating now to improve your own quality of life at home.

You’re emotionally attached. How can you possibly sell the house you raised your kids in when the lines showing their heights at different ages are still in the kitchen doorway and you can still picture them taking their first steps across the living room floor? Sometimes the memories are too good to leave, at least for now. In this case, it may be better to remodel a couple rooms than reluctantly sell your home.

You skip the cost of moving. Moving is expensive when you factor in the cost to make updates, place your house on the market, pay closing costs and then fund a move. The cost of moving even a short distance can climb quickly — north of $10,000 — if you’re hiring full-service movers, and it can still reach above $1,000 for just a moving van rental. Especially if you’re expecting a modest net profit on your house, the additional cost to relocate may not be worth it.

 

You’re making the property safer.

Whether you recently purchased your fixer-upper or you’ve lived there a couple decades, it may be time to overhaul some dated systems and ensure your home is keeping you safe and healthy. Consider having professionals check for old electrical wiring, dated heating systems and moist areas that may invite mold

Renovations build more equity.

If you’ve only been in your house a few years and you have a mortgage, your equity in the house may be minimal. As a result, you wouldn’t net much profit from the sale of your house. Instead, you have the opportunity to strategically improve your home with projects that can grow its value. A new roof, a master suite addition or a kitchen renovation can all be key changes that will make your house more desirable down the line. But be careful not to overimprove. A swimming pool in a neighborhood where no other houses have one doesn’t add much value, for example.

Tips On Choosing The Best Garbage Disposal For Your Home

Preventative Maintenance for Your Garbage Disposal

Anyone who’s had their garbage disposal break down knows the hassle that this small appliance causes when it stops working. Often this happens when people don’t understand the correct way to use it. Here are some basic dos and don’ts that will help you keep your garbage disposal clean and in good condition and save you money on repairs or replacements.

Garbage Disposal Dos:

  • Use cold water. Keep a steady flow of cold water during and after every use. Keep the flow going for approximately 15 seconds after grinding has ceased to ensure that the food washes through. Hot water can cause fat to conceal and stick to the blades and interior. Also, cold water helps keep the unit from overheating.
  • Clean with ice. Occasionally put a small amount of ice into the garbage disposal and run it to keep the unit clean. Make sure you put the rubber stopper over the opening before you run it to keep ice pieces from flying out.
  • Clean with de-greaser. Use a disposal cleaner or generic de-greaser occasionally to keep fat from building up. This will help with the unit’s efficiency and eliminate odors.
  • Clear the drain. It’s good to have the drainage pipe snaked approximately once every two years to prevent clogs and keep the sink draining smoothly.
  • Use citrus as a freshener. You can grind up citrus peels from lemons, limes, oranges, etc. to keep the disposal smelling fresh. The natural acid also hinders bacterial growth.

Garbage Disposal Don’ts:

  • Avoid hot water during grinding. It’s perfectly fine to run hot water in your sink after you’re done using the garbage disposal, but always use cold water during the grinding process. As stated above, hot water can make fats congeal and stick to the blades and interior of the unit.
  • Don’t run grease, fat, pasta or fibrous waste through. These materials will clog the drain. Dispose of them through solid waste channels. This includes tough plant fibers such as celery and potato skins. Pasta is notorious for clogging garbage disposals.
  • Don’t fill the disposal. If you have a lot of food waste to grind up, make sure you do it gradually. If you cram the disposal full, don’t be surprised if it can’t handle the load.
  • Don’t use harsh cleaning chemicals. These can cause harm to you, the plumbing system, and the environment as they flow through.
  • Only grind food. Don’t expect the garbage disposal to be able to handle paper towels, rags, plastic, or other non-edible materials.

 

Do the Following to Maintain a Clog-Free Disposal

  • Lots of water! The simplest way to avoid a clog is to make sure you flush the disposal with plenty of water when it is grinding up food waste and then for 30 seconds afterward. Then occasionally maintain your disposal by regularly grinding up pieces of lemon or orange peel and ice cubes.
  • Use dishwashing detergents that de-grease your dishes. Grease is the ‘glue’ that holds bacteria causing odors in your drain pipes and adds to the likelihood of the slow draining clogs you want to avoid.
  • Avoid grinding up potato peelings, banana peels, coffee grounds or eggshells as described above.

By following these simple tips you will help keep your garbage disposal trouble-free, sanitary and clean smelling.

 

NEVER Put These Items down the Garbage Disposal:

  1. Glass, metal, plastic, or paper (including cigarette butts, fruit stickers, string ties, etc.).
  2. Grease, oil, or fat (including meat fat and cheese). Put your grease in a metal or glass container and either save it for reuse or throw it out in the trash.
  3. Stringy, fibrous, or starchy vegetables (celery, corn husks, artichokes, onion skins, potato skins, etc… small amounts are probably fine, but it’s best to avoid these tough vegetables).
  4. Pasta or rice (foods that expand when water is added).
  5. Hard stuff (bones, pits, and seeds… although small fish and chicken bones are OK).
  6. Large amounts of anything (large amounts of anything will cause a garbage disposal clog).

 

ELIMINATING FOUL ODOR COMING FROM A GARBAGE DISPOSAL

Foul odors can occur from a buildup of food debris within your garbage disposal. To eliminate this unpleasant odor, you can place ice cubes and lemon or orange peels in your disposal. Then run the disposal for about 30 seconds, after that squirt a little liquid dish detergent into the disposal while it is still running. Finally, run cold water for about 30 seconds to rinse all the debris away.

 

Garbage Disposal Care

How to clean your disposal and a comprehensive list of what you can or cannot put in it

Whether you are a long time garbage disposal user, or have just chosen your first ever disposal, knowing how to care for it will go a long way to making your experience a good one. Garbage disposals are valuable household tools, when used properly. If you are careful with what you put through your disposal, and keep it clean, it should provide you with many years of carefree service. Many of the common frustrations users experience can be avoided by following just a few tips.

Help! It Stinks!

A common garbage disposal complaint is bad odors. This is often due to a failure to run enough water through and ensure everything is adequately flushed out. To keep your disposal fresh and clean, consider the following tips:

  • Grind Thoroughly – Make sure you allow adequate time for everything to get ground and flushed with water. Leftover particles cause odors.
  • Clean Regularly – At least once a week, take a bottle brush and scrub inside the disposal. This small maintenance step will go a long way to keeping it fresh.
  • Grab Citrus – Fresh orange, lemon, or limes can help cut grease and eliminate odors. Simply grind pieces in the disposal.
  • Vinegar is Good – Freeze some vinegar in ice cube trays and blend in the disposal. This helps to eliminate bacteria which can cause odor.

Asphalt Tile Roof And Safe Roof Access

Tips in Choosing The Best Roof Tile For Your Home Extension

Roofing tiles are the latest trend in home improvement and for good reason – roofing tiles are hardy, elegant, and long-lasting. Roofing tiles have had a long reputation of being one of the most reliable roofing materials ever made, in fact, it use goes as far back as the time of the Mesopotamians and Ancient Egyptians

Popularity of Roof Tile for Home Extension Returns

Today, its popularity is again taking hold thanks in part to a renewed interest in old-fashioned aesthetics. If you’re contemplating investing in roof tile for home extension purposes, it pays to educate yourself on the best roof tiles available, to suit your specific needs.

Pricier doesn’t always mean better – you’ll be tempted to invest in extremely pricey roofing tiles with the general presumption that the most expensive ones last longer, or that they require less maintenance, but don’t be fooled! More often than not, mid-priced roofing tiles and even ones that are downright dirt-cheap are just as hardy as the over-priced ones, and investing in them won’t empty your pockets.

Pick the right tile for your climate – if you live in a tropical climate, don’t pick roofing tiles that are made from rock, since these tend to trap and collect heat, but do not diffuse it as well as other materials. Opt instead for clay, terra cotta, or ceramic tiles which are more ideal for tropical environments. If you live in a place that has its fair share of sunny days and cold spells, investing in tiles made from rocks like shale or limestone will be worth your while.

Combine functionality and aesthetics when picking roofing tiles – the shape of roofing tiles aren’t there for mere aesthetics; it too also serves a very practical purpose. Slatted and curved tiles are perfect for climates that undergo regular bouts of rain, but dead-flat tiles are far more ideal for places which experience regular snowfall.

 

TIPS ON HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST COLOR FOR YOUR ROOF TILES

Do you wish to give a stylish and elegant look to the exterior of the house? If yes, then investing in roof tiles installation in Phoenix will be a wonderful choice for you. A Tile roof can be described as a roofing system made out of tiles which are known for its high resistance, longevity, and impermeability. Choosing the color for the brand-new tile roof will surely be an exciting process for you, and the reason is that now you have several options to pick from than before.

Wait there is a caution for you! Avoid getting lost in the ocean of colors to find the iconic one for you. You need to keep in mind that whatever color you choose to need to match with the overall look of the house interior. There are some key factors that you need to take into consideration for choosing the colors for the roof and the roofing contractors of your locality

Paint Quality:

It is one of the key factors to consider when you begin the search for the perfect color for your roof. Your search should target high-quality paint perfect for applying on the tile roof and the one that can serve you long. There are various companies which are manufacturing a wide range of color paints for the flat roof tiles to select from. You can seek the assistance of the roofing contractors to help you choose the right quality and shade of paint for the roof. The paint should be the one with acrylic resin which can block the ultraviolet light. This will help to protect the roof from premature fading, corrosion, peeling, rust as well as water infiltration. Ask for the paint warranty period before you buy it, it is better to go with the one with the maximum warranty period. Check the reviews of the paints online for getting more ideas on quality roof paints.

Style Of The Home:

The roof color or better to say the roof tile color that you will be selecting for your roof need to match your overall home style. Select the color taking into consideration all elements of the exterior design of the home, for example, the color of doors, windows, walls, landscape, frames of doors, balcony grill, etc. One thing that you need to keep in mind is that the color of the tiles will stay for several years and so even if you don’t like the color after a year and so, it will cost you big to change. Select the shade which will please your eyes long and keep complimenting the beauty of the house externally. There needs to be a cool balance between the roof color and the color of the rest sections of the house exterior. Take suggestions from roofing services in Arizona experts and compare color samples to pick the right shade for the roof. We will suggest you check the samples in the various time slot of the day. This will give an idea of how it looks under a bright light in the afternoon, semi-dull in the morning and when the sun is about to set.

The Appearance Of The House:

Many are not aware that the use of dark with light colors create a magical impact on the appearance of the home exterior. When you have a light-colored roof it will make the house appear taller than actual and will be an ideal option when the house is having a low roof or a shallow looking pitch. Contrasting, using a darker color will make the tall roof appear less overwhelming

Common Trends Of The Neighborhood Houses:

Besides personal aesthetic sense, you need to take into consideration the colors of the roofs of the neighborhood houses. If all have a similar pattern of color then its safe to go with the same color. On the other hand, you can make a little bit change in the shade or pattern of coloring the tiles of the roof to make your house stand apart from the rest without turning an eyesore.

 

tips for choosing clay roofing tiles

When your customer decides to invest in a clay tiled roof, naturally they will need to consult you regarding which tiles will best suit their home, their tastes, and their budget. Choosing the right roofing material is paramount, especially with clay tiles, since the initial investment is higher than concrete coverings. With a vast range of clay tiles available, the choice can often be bewildering; so to simplify things

Decide whether modern machine made clay tiles or handmade tiles will best suit the property: whilst machine made clay tiles can be used for both contemporary and traditional homes, there is simply no substitute for handmade tiles where authenticity or conservation is key. These include high-spec custom homes, or sensitive restoration projects, where local planning authority requirements count. Budget may well be an influencing factor at this stage too

Consider the whole life costs: handmade tiles are an investment, not a cost, asthey stand head and shoulders above most mass produced tiles. In addition to their long life span and colourfastness, they lend charm and authenticity to any building, contributing enormously to the resale value of a property.

Research the ranges and options available:clay tiles are synonymous with rich red roofs, however the beauty of handmade tiles lies in the array of shades that enhance the overall look. Speaking of colour, it’s important to ensure the tiles come with a complementary range of fittings.

Quality pays in the long run: not all clay tiles are of the same quality, and you should carefully review the manufacturers’ certifications to ensure that you are purchasing products that will provide the lifespan you expect. You need to be confident that the tile will maintain its beautiful appearance over time and survive harsh frost, as well as wet weather conditions.

 

Choosing the Best Type of Roofing Tiles for Your Home

Make the best decision for your home by considering all the features of your roof. Use this guide to make sure you choose the best roofing tile for your home.

With the home median price at $187500, and showing no signs of slowing down, you must protect your property. A home is an investment that will probably last you a lifetime, which is why it’s important that you choose a roofing system will best protect it

Style of Your Home

The architectural style of your house will dictate the type of roofing tiles to use. For instance, some roofing tiles are best suited for historic homes while asphalt shingles are suitable for most architectural styles. Consult with your contractor to choose the roofing that matches your home’s aesthetics

Roof Application

Are you applying the roof to a new structure or is it a replacement roof? With new roofs, your choices are not limited to the existing components such as the roof structure composition or the roof pitch

Your Budget

As a roof of thumb, choose a roofing material that is neither too expensive nor too cheap. The price will vary depending on the material. Always avoid cheap roofing materials, as they are costly to maintain due to frequent replacements.

Durability

Your choice on roof tile types should be guided by durability. The durable roof tile will cost more but it will be worth it since the maintenance cost will be low. Most homeowners will prefer steel or aluminum roofing materials as they can last up to 50 years or more

 

What Color of Roof Tiles Should You Choose?

Choosing a roof tile color is an essential facet and reflection of your home. A roof is up to 40% of your homes visible exterior, making choosing the color a significant investment for your home. What things should you consider and weigh when choosing a color for roof tiles? Here, we give you a few tips to consider when choosing the right color for your home.

Consider the Climate Your Live In

A significant factor when choosing a color for your roof tiles is the climate and area in which you live. Do you live in more tropical and sunny climates, or those prone to cold and snow? Dark colors tend to hold and retain heat much more readily than lighter colors, which in turn radiate into your home. Leading to your cooling costs rising in warmer months as AC units work harder to keep your home cool. A lighter roof will reflect and absorb much less heat making your home more energy efficient. Similarly, dark colors in colder climates will help keep your home warmer in colder months.

Color Coordination and Architecture

It’s also important to pay attention to the exterior color of your home and the existing architecture. The right coordinating colors and styles add an incredible amount of depth and curb appeal that can heighten the value of your home. You want to choose a color that compliments the color of your home. Brighter colors tend to accent better with black, gray, or brown colored tiles. Consider painting your house too if the color you like clashes with that of your home.

Talk to Your Neighbors

Before making the decision, take a second and look around your neighborhood. What are the general trends that you observe from your neighbor’s roofs? You want to pick something that doesn’t clash with your neighbors’ homes, who will have to live with your color choice just as much as you. Look at the natural surroundings too, factoring in seasonal color changes in contrast to your home.

Are you choosing to make a statement? Check to make sure that statement doesn’t go against the homeowners association. Consider how your color choice will affect the resale value of your home and your neighbors’

A Breakdown Of The Many Residential Cleaning Company Advantages

Reasons To Start A Cleaning Franchise

Cleaning franchises in particular take up a considerable share of the market, with the obvious benefits of designated territories and tried and tested business practices, training and support.

Cleaning franchises come in all shapes and sizes, from carpet cleaning franchises to commercial cleaning franchises to domestic cleaning franchises.

With the ever-growing number of companies outsourcing their cleaning, there’s plenty of business opportunities in the sector. And in our on-the-go society, it looks like there will never be a shortage of time-poor, cash-rich potential customers looking for domestic cleaning services.

Whichever option you choose, there are some universal positives. Here are our top reasons to start a cleaning franchise:

Low start-up costs

And as they are predominantly home-based, cleaning franchises are cheaper to run, on a long-term basis, than other franchised businesses that need premises. In fact, many franchisors in this sector claim their franchisees can start earning profit straight away.

No cleaning skills required

Firstly, running a cleaning franchise doesn’t mean you’ll have to pull on your marigolds.

Most cleaning franchises are management operatives where you will be organising a team of housekeepers or commercial cleaners and generating clients for their services. Organisational skills are a must as well as good people skills and buckets full of enthusiasm.

High demand

As an increasing number of families are becoming dual-income and our lives become busier than ever, a weekly cleaner has become more of an essential part of the monthly household budget, rather than a luxury used only by the wealthy.

 Rewarding

On paper, owning a cleaning franchise business may not seem like the most fulfilling job in the world but bear in mind that this is a role which involves interacting with people on a daily basis and creating positive outcomes for cleaners and clients as well as yourself. Becoming a cleaning franchisee will require plenty of social skills (so extreme introverts need not apply!) and if this is a strength, it will be an enjoyable experience.

 

It’s Easy to Get Started Today

  • Meet with us to learn more and explore options.
  • Review the circular
  • Pick a starting package
  • Schedule a signing date
  • Schedule the training
  • Start with your first customer that needs commercial cleaning
  • Build your janitorial services business

 

Why will commercial cleaning franchises always be in demand?

  1. They’re a cost-effective way of keeping the workspace clean. If bosses ask their employees to make sure their desks or work areas are always spotless, they’ll have to take time out of their day to do extra cleaning duties.
  2. They help create a professional feel for visiting clients. All businesses want to impress customers, whether they’re a retailer attracting shoppers, a legal firm welcoming clients or an online company hoping for new visitors – to name a few examples. By enlisting the help of a commercial cleaning franchise, bosses can make sure their workspace is ship-shape every single time a potential customer stumbles upon it. That means there’s never a mad panic at the last moment.
  3. A clean workspace helps maintain workers’ mental and physical health. Businesses can protect their employees’ wellbeing by making sure their premises are always clean and tidy. Letting dust and grime accumulate can lead to unhygienic working conditions and even be dangerous at times when viruses are spreading or allergies are flaring up. But as well as negatively impacting workers’ physical health, business owners who put up with dirty workspaces may be putting their employees’ mental wellbeing at risk too.
  4. They help maintain the building. If business owners make sure their premises are looked after on a day-to-day basis, they can reduce the likelihood of needing to carry out more significant work later on. In theory, paying for regular cleaning should be more cost-effective than forking out for major maintenance work. Either way, it’ll definitely save time.
  5. Professional commercial cleaners will do a great job. As you can imagine, an established cleaning business will probably clean a workspace to a much higher standard than its occupants would. People who clean for a living will have specialised products to get real results and know all the tips and tricks for making a space look as good as new.

 

Reasons You Should Consider Buying a Commercial Cleaning Franchise

There are many great opportunities when it comes to independently owned small to mid-size businesses for sale. There are also a lot of great franchise opportunities available.  If you are open to exploring the franchise opportunities available the commercial cleaning industry is an area you should consider.  Commercial cleaning franchises are quickly becoming a popular choice among business buyers and here are my 6 reasons why you should consider one.

#1 – Industry Growth

The commercial cleaning industry has seen consistent growth even during the recession.  It is estimated that revenues from commercial cleaning companies will exceed $67 billion this year.  More and more companies are outsourcing their cleaning and are willing to sign ongoing agreements with a reputable provider.  Commercial cleaning franchises provide instant name recognition to business clients looking for someone they can trust.

#2 – Home Based Opportunities

As you are researching potential franchises, keep in mind that there are some that can be run from a home office.  Home based business opportunities are becoming a popular choice among many Entrepreneurs as not needing a physical office space can greatly reduce overhead costs.  Having this flexibility is a great option.  You can always start out working from your home office until you get the business up and running and then move into office space when cash flow allows.  Growing your business in phases like this can be a great way to ensure your success because you aren’t taking on a ton of debt and expenses right out of the gate.  You’re giving your business a chance to get started before you have to start paying someone rent.

#3 – Lower Startup Costs

On top of having the ability to run this business from your home to save on expenses, the commercial cleaning business generally has low startup costs.  Of course there are some franchises that cost more than others but companies like Jan-Pro offer franchises with an initial investment as low as $3,100.  Jan-Pro was ranked #12 on the 2014 Franchise 500 list and they have over 11,000 locations worldwide so you can get into an established, reputable franchise for a reasonable initial investment.

#4 – Proven Business Model

The commercial cleaning service business is nothing new. Companies have been successful in this industry for years and the business model is proven for the most part.  With a franchise, the company has taken the time to put operating procedures in place as well as training and other essential functions to help you succeed. They have also done the leg work for you in terms of marketing by creating a brand identity.  If you are buying into a larger franchise, they probably offer advertising and other types of marketing services that you would otherwise have to do yourself if you were an independent commercial cleaning company.

#5 – Stability

Many small businesses have to worry about the ups and downs of the economy when it comes to their revenue.  In the commercial cleaning business you can expect a certain level of stability.  The customers you’ll be working with pretty much have to have your services in order to keep their facilities clean for their own employees and their customers.  With that, while you may see some cutting back when times get tough, they will most likely stay with you unless you give them a reason not to.  If you provide your customers with a high quality service and leave them satisfied with your work, you can expect your revenue to remain stable.

#6 – Not A Desk Job

There are many people that can’t stand the thought of sitting behind a computer all day.  If you’re one of those people, there is one more reason for you to consider a commercial cleaning franchise it’s not a desk job.  Even if you don’t want to be hands on and actually providing the services, as the owner your role could be traveling from job to job doing quality control.  You could be in the field when you want to be and spend time at a desk when you have to.  If you want a desk job, this business may also work since you could hire someone to be in the field.  Also, there are some cleaning franchises that allow for absentee ownership.  In that case you’d be able to check in occasionally and most of your work would be done from your desk.

 

The Cleaning Market is Stable

Cleaning falls under an important category of services: time savers. If a business had to dedicate an employee to cleaning up around the office, that employee would spend almost all of their day cleaning, costing the company money through lost productivity. That would be unrealistic, which is why almost every office out there has professional cleaners come and take care of the job for them. Saving time is one of the most valuable things that a business can do for its clients, and cleaning services are one of the time-saviest businesses out there.

Even though recessions and depressions affect cleaning services the same as any other business, cleaning services are likely to stay on the payroll in tough times. Even if layoffs are occurring, the office still needs to be clean, else productivity and morale will suffer. It’s common for businesses to reduce cleaning frequency in tough times, but it’s uncommon for them to cut off services altogether.

A Commercial Electrical Remodel Serves All Types Of Businesses

Tips for Choosing the Best Electrical Contractor for Your Business

Whether you need to retrofit an area of your business or remodel your entire building, choosing the right electrical contractor is one of the most important decisions you make to determine the success of the project. Commercial electric work requires an electrician with experience and skill working on large scale projects at businesses such as yours.

Gather Recommendations from your Network

Work your network to get good recommendations from family, friends and other business owners. Specifically, ask about the scope of their projects and whether they were satisfied with the finished job. You can also consult with local hardware and electrical supply stores, which often have a short list of professionals they recommend to their customers.

Verify Licensing and Insurance

Going with the lowest bid on your project might save some money in the short term, but you need to make sure that the commercial electrician you choose has the appropriate licensing and insurance for the work you need completed. A licensed electrician by law must carry worker’s compensation and liability insurance for accidents and injuries that might occur at your business. Hiring someone that only carries the minimum is opening yourself to risk, so never be afraid to ask a company for a copy of their insurance certificates. This is very common and they should have this information readily available. Note that bonded electricians have insurance that covers you if your electrician abandons the project and disappears.

Assess Credentials and Training

When you interview each electrician, you should evaluate their experience and capability, based on their past work. You should also find out if each electrician has the proper license. The highest license in Florida is the Unlimited Electrical Contractor license, which means the company is qualified to do anything electrical. There are various other licenses for specialties like fire alarm, low voltage, etc. Besides the company being state licensed, individual electricians can be licensed as either Master or Journeyman electrician by their local county. If they are a “card-carrying” electrician, they will at least have passed a basic test on code requirements.

Check Reviews and References

References still mean something in an increasingly digital world. So, find out as much as you can about the kind of jobs the commercial electrician has done. Then, ask for and call prior clients to assess their satisfaction with the work done. If you can, ask the electrical contractor to provide the contact information of recent clients for the same work being done on your home. Though it’s time-consuming to do this for each company you evaluate, make sure to follow through on the top three to five picks.

 

Expert Guide to Commercial Remodeling

Taking on a Commercial Construction Project

Commercial building remodeling is a big undertaking for any property owner. It’s so big that many will only go through a major remodel once or twice in their lifetime. When the remodel begins, many property owners don’t know what to expect. Being informed can help make a remodel or upgrade less stressful and more worthwhile. Doing research and working with top commercial general contractors is important.

Commercial building remodeling helps businesses stay relevant and functional. Buildings deteriorate quickly when they’re not maintained. As fixtures become inefficient and break down, repairs become critical. Buildings that do not get the maintenance they need when they need it may someday become too difficult or expensive to repair

Shut Down or No?

Business may not have to stop while the remodel takes place. Contractors can work in shifts before or after customers arrive, on weekends when the business is closed, or behind curtains, while business is conducted as normal.

Improved Use of Space

It’s important for businesses to optimize their use of space. Installation of custom cabinetry, reshaping or redesign of an attic or storage area, and even redesign of offices and cubicles are ways that a commercial renovation project can free up space in the office.

Cosmetic Improvements

Cosmetic improvements should be performed on a regular basis to prevent a building from looking dated or poorly maintained.

 

Tips from Lightning Mobile Electric

Whether you’re remodeling your entire business building, or simply doing a lighting retrofit, finding the right electrical contractor is one of the most important things you need to do for the success and safety of your establishment. Commercial electrical work is a little different from its domestic or residential variants. The former requires specific skills, experience, equipment, and tools, among other things. Hiring a professional contractor like Lightning Mobile Electric can make your life easier and save you money

Get Recommendations

As a business owner, you typically work with different companies and deal with different people on a regular basis. Use your network and ask around for any recommendations. Ask your family and friends, or other business owners. Make sure you inquire about the scope of their projects and their customers. Were they satisfied when the job was finished? You can also visit your local electrical supply and hardware stores and ask about their opinions on different contractors in your area. There’s a good chance they have a short list of professionals that they regularly recommend to their customers. Many electrical contractors in Denver, for example, are well-known in their local electrical supply stores in Colorado.

Ask About their Experience with Commercial Projects

Commercial electrical projects are different from residential ones. Obviously, you don’t want to risk your business establishment’s electrical system being installed by poorly trained and inexperienced electricians. Ask about the experience of the contractor’s workers with regards to commercial projects. Make sure they can provide you with workers who have all the knowledge, skills, and tools to do the job

Ask About their Guarantees and Warranties

A good company will stand behind their work, and will go above and beyond to provide you with the best service possible. Thus, choose those companies who take pride in their service. One great way to do this is to ask about their guarantees and warranties.

Ask for Their Estimates

You may have heard the horror stories of electricians demanding more money through excess charges, drawn out timeframes, and unexpected costs. Nothing scares business owners off more quickly than hidden fees. These things can affect your budget and the finances of your business. A good contractor will never do that. Thus, make sure you broach this subject with your contractor

 

Improving the Speed of Commercial Electrical Installations

Tough commercial installations

Commercial electrical installations are a tough job by any standard. As an electrician, you have to pay extreme attention to detail (locations of convenience sockets, lamp types, signal systems, etc.), while also having a broad overview of the electrical system of the building as a whole. Residential installation may seem like child’s play in comparison.

Speed through factors

The factors that affect large commercial electrical installation include busways, wiring, raceways and conductors. Each can be optimized to provide some time savings. From the use of I-line busways to EMT raceways, here are a few ways to improve the speed of commercial electrical installation.

Type of busway

Using an I-line busway over cable and conduit can boost your speed. The busway is one of the most important parts of any commercial electrical installation.Electricity is passed through a conductor, which is typically copper wire. The copper is not allowed to touch anything, or else it may lose the current. That is why conductors come with some kind of cover or sheath. Together, they make a wire.Many wires can be bundled together with a single sheath to deliver more electricity. This is called a power cable. In lieu of a power cable, many electrical installations use a busway or bus duct.The busway is a series of sheet metal ducts used to carry large amounts of current. The I-line busway is noted for having among the easiest installations, which is why it is a good choice if you want to speed things up.

Wiring method

Due to the plethora of regulations that exist in regard to wiring, this is actually a factor over which electricians will have little control. Regulations exist partly because of the sensitivity of wiring materials to degradation by heat, moisture and age. Even a light commercial installation may see several wiring changes a year. Facilities that handle special chemicals may be even more restricted by their wiring methods. Regardless of your wiring method, you will find that preparation, staging and proper organization techniques will increase the speed of installation. These include straightening the cable out first, so it’s easier to slip through holes, neatly packing electrical boxes and making snagless fish tape connections.

Type of raceway

The raceway is the part of the electrical system that protects the cables from the elements. It is basically an enclosed metal box in which the cables are placed, protecting them from heat, humidity, corrosion, etc.If the raceway is well grounded, it can also serve to deflect radio frequencies. In some occasions, plastic is used instead of metal, but only in cases where the cables have their own RF-shielding, as plastic does not provide this.There are many kinds of raceways, but one of the easiest and quickest to install is electrical metal tubing. Made from galvanized steel or aluminum, EMT is lightweight and easy to bend, cut and ream.

 

MAKING THE JUMP FROM RESIDENTIAL TO COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION

if you are a residential contractor, you likely spend considerable downtime contemplating ways to increase company revenues. But, aside from improving efficiency, greater revenues are often realized only by way of greater sales, and additional work can prove hard to come by in an already competitive local market. So where does one go for new opportunities? Well, instead of laboring to wring every last drop out of your current residential market, maybe it’s time to expand the market itself. Maybe it’s time to look into commercial construction.

NEW HORIZONS?

But I know what you’re feeling—apprehension, uneasiness, and that’s understandable. To those not yet indoctrinated, commercial construction (CC) can appear daunting. Suddenly there are architects, engineers, liquidated damages, bonding, and a cast of wealthy business clients with short attention spans and scary-sounding law firms on speed-dial. There are new regulations, strict protocols, and new competition. “I wouldn’t know where to begin,” you tell yourself.

FINDING COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION WORK: REPORTING SERVICES

As a residential contractor, new work likely came via local advertising, your website, personal referrals, and industry contacts (i.e., real estate brokers, material suppliers). These are still great strategies for acquiring work in CC, but there are other avenues for an opportunity in place for you. One of these is known collectively as reporting services. You may already be familiar with these reports,

These services are for construction managers (CMs), general contractors (GCs), subcontractors, suppliers and anyone with a vested interest in commercial construction work. Most of these reports include pertinent details regarding the project such as a description of the work itself, the architect/engineer (A/E), the owner and even bidding companies currently holding plans. They’ll also give a bid date/time and may even tell you how to go about acquiring bidding documents (many sites even offer downloadable electronic versions).

CONSTRUCTION ORGANIZATIONS & PLAN ROOMS

Another popular avenue for exploring CC opportunities is through your local construction organization such as the AGC (Associated General Contractors) and ABC (Associated Builders & Contractors) and a host of other groups that represent a wide and varied array of sub-contractors, suppliers, support agencies and government bodies who work in the CC industry. You may already belong to one of these associations. These groups also often sponsor local and/or area plan rooms (both physical and online) where blueprints and specifications on upcoming/bidding CC projects can be viewed or (in some cases) checked out or downloaded for you to perform takeoffs and estimates. Again, some ask for a fee and others don’t.

The Necessity Of Professional Post Construction Cleaning Services

POST CONSTRUCTION CLEANING CHECKLIST: A LIST WITH BEST CLEANING TIPS

Whether you’re remodeling retail space or building new commercial property from the ground up, there’s nothing like that last day. Construction crews are finished, they’re clearing things out, and you’re ready to open the doors. One good look around tells you that you’ll have to wait.

POST CONSTRUCTION CLEANING TIPS: YOUR 10-POINT CHECKLIST

Most contractors clean up a finished job site, but their services don’t include scrubbing, dusting and polishing. As you size up your capabilities to tackle final detailing, let our post construction cleaning checklist be your guide. First, make sure you’re equipped with the right supplies for the job.

DEAL WITH CONTRACTORS’ LEFTOVERS

Address the aftermath of your construction project with a thorough trash patrol. Walk property exteriors and interiors keeping an eye out for discarded plastic sheeting, drop cloths and tape strips. Look for small things like dropped nails, bolts and screws. Construction crews don’t mean to leave a mess, but be prepared for extensive pick-up work.

MAKE HARD FLOORS PRESENTABLE AGAIN

Every post construction cleaning checklist should include a floor inspection. Construction jobs take a toll on hard floors, so check them for any signs of damage before mopping, waxing and buffing. You can take care of most vinyl flooring tears with DIY techniques, but wood flooring problems need professional attention.

RESCUE CARPETS FROM HEAVY TRAFFIC

Carpet fibers trap everything from fine dust and tiny wood splinters to lingering construction odors. Use a heavy shop vac to remove ground-in dirt and foreign objects. Follow up with a shampoo and deep-steam cleaning. Let treated areas completely dry before opening them back up to foot traffic

 

HOW TO START A POST CONSTRUCTION CLEANING BUSINESS

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

Plan your Business

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

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

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

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

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

Who is the target market?

Typical construction cleanup company clients are commercial and residential property owners. A construction crew can work on a home, a warehouse, a factory, or even an apartment complex. Because they can serve many areas, the best clients are those who communicate effectively. To make more money, a construction cleanup company may provide services to networks such as apartments, hotels, and business strips

 

Professional Commercial Cleaning

It’s an exciting time when the construction workers start collecting their tools and packing up their trucks. Whether it’s an addition to your office building, a whole new venue, or just some minor renovations to your home, you’ve been patiently waiting for the project to be done and start using the new space. There’s only one issue: after they leave, the place is still a mess. Post-construction clean-up is a must.

Our post-construction clean up service does not entail a quick pick up of trash and a half-hearted sweeping; instead, it’s a meticulous full clean. We get into areas you wouldn’t even think of to ensure that your new area is not only clean, but spotless. Here’s a list of some of the main post-construction cleaning services we provide.

Debris Removal

After the job is done and the workers have left, the site is often left looking like a cluttered wasteland. Not only will there be burger wrappers, water bottles, and other assorted trash left about, but also sharp and hazardous material that can cause harm to anyone walking through. If you decide to use your workers, friends, or family to help do the clean up, you can be held liable for any injuries that may take place.

Wall Washing

Wall washing is an often overlooked task post-construction until someone realizes that they can write their name on the wall through the dust. Not only will there be a mass accumulation of dust, but also mud, caulk, dried up soda stains, and who knows what else. Let our professionals give the walls a thorough scrubbing with our green cleaning products so that the rooms look as they should, brand spanking new

High-Dust Cleaning

When the job is done, the dust begins to settle, literally. Finding its way into every corner, crack, orifice, and surface, our job is to find every single speck left behind. Our promise is to leave no remnants of the construction, only a clean, dust-free space for you to enjoy

 

Construction Cleaning: Overview, Checklists and Tips

Everyone dealing with a renovation, be it residential or commercial, knows how difficult it can be to handle construction waste. Dirt and dust always find a way in, regardless of the measures you took to cover important surfaces. Drywall and brick dust also pose a significant health risk, and they can seriously damage some appliances and building equipment if neglected

At New York Engineers we have ample experience with construction administration and building commissioning. Our engineering and design services cover HVAC, electrical works and plumbing, among a portfolio of trades. We published this blog about post-construction cleaning to share our tips, checklists, and know-how from rough clean to shine.

What is the Definition of Post-Construction Cleaning?

Post-construction cleanup is meant to take care of debris and waste from a fresh commercial construction, remodeling, renovation or residential project, to set the stage for coming handymen and further interior touches. This applies for commercial applications like hotels, education, retail, restaurants and healthcare, as well as government buildings and manufacturing facilities.

Post-construction cleaning is when a team of specialists performs a careful process of clearing out anything ranging from larger pieces of debris to small types of waste. This includes nails, screws, insulation, caulking, sealant remains, tile scraps, cement and wood pieces, among other things left behind by builders and technical personnel. The process also includes wiping all surfaces and floors to remove drops of paint and other liquids.

Why do You Need Post Construction Cleaning?

“You need post-construction cleaning because of complexity, lack of proper gear, practice, time, and nerves required to do it yourself, not to mention quality guaranteed by professional cleaning companies,” commented experts from the Australia-based FantasticCleaners.com.au professional cleaning company. “The importance of post-construction cleaning as a guarantee for coping with post-construction cleaning chemicals and heavy particles is a fact,” they added. “If one is unaware of the risk and hazards from a poorly-handled construction site cleanup, a wide range of health hazards might emerge.”

 

THE LONG CHECKLIST OF POST-CONSTRUCTION CLEANING

Construction jobs can vary in size and scale, but there’s one aspect of it that’s almost universally common — construction crews don’t clean up the mess they leave behind. Instead, the industry standard is to leave the job to a professional cleaning company, allowing construction workers to move on to jobs where their skills are more useful, and for the cleanup process to be comprehensive.

You might think that cleanup isn’t that hard of a job and that it should be customary as part of the construction process, but the reality is that post-construction cleanup can be a monumental task. As a post-construction cleaning company who has done this job on many commercial building sites in Gloucester, we know this better than anyone

CLEANING MOUNTAINS OF DUST

Dust is annoying. It’s coarse and rough and irritating and it gets everywhere. And that’s not an understatement — dust really is ubiquitous on any construction site, whether its sawdust or drywall dust. Proper cleanup is easiest with the industrial equipment that professional cleaning services have access to. You might think you’re a master duster by how dust-free you keep your home, but trust us when we say that construction dust is truly on another level.

CLEANING INTERIOR GLASS

When you walk into a new building, the windows are usually crystal clear — but they didn’t come that way. Construction dirties up new glass windows immensely, but your local post-construction cleaning company such as CleanPro will make sure that they’re shiny and perfectly transparent.

CLEANING THE LIGHTS

Remember all that dust we talked about? It really does get *everywhere,* including the lights. Lights aren’t something that a lot of average joes remember to clean, but it’s an essential part of getting a building ready for use after construction. This is especially important for the sake of presentation. If you’re a commercial building owner who might be housing tenants or businesses, you don’t want the interior brightness to be dampened by dirty lights that you hadn’t thought to clean

How To Install Vinly Flooring In Your House

The Pros and Cons of Vinyl Flooring

Understand what makes vinyl such a viable flooring option—as well as the downsides to this popular product—to decide whether to install it or remove it from your home

Vinyl is the most popular form of resilient flooring (a category that also includes linoleum and cork) because it’s low-maintenance, water-resistant, cost-effective, and long-lasting. It also has the perfect balance of firmness and “give,” meaning it springs a bit when you walk on it for a comfortable feel underfoot. And thanks to recent technological advances, today’s vinyl comes in a wide range of high-quality, beautiful finishes.

But vinyl flooring does have its downsides. So whether you’re considering installing vinyl or wondering what it takes to remove an existing vinyl floor, read on. We’ve laid out key vinyl flooring pros and cons—from installation and removal—so you can make the right decision for your home.

PRO: Vinyl floors are relatively easy to install.

Developments in the vinyl flooring industry have made the product more DIY friendly. While vinyl was once only available in large, unwieldy sheets, today’s tiles and planks are much easier to install with no sawing or hammering. Most luxury brands now offer “self-adhesive” vinyl—simply remove the backing and press into place on a properly prepared subfloor.

CON: Vinyl floors can be tough to remove.

Once vinyl’s adhesive backing hardens to the floorboards, the glue is difficult to remove. Fortunately, removing vinyl floors doesn’t require professional tools or techniques; it’s all about elbow grease.

Clear the room of furniture and remove baseboards and trim if possible.

Cut vinyl into 12-inch strips, using a utility knife. Manually pull up the flooring strip by strip.

 

Luxury Vinyl Guide LVP and LVT

WHAT IS LUXURY VINYL? AND LVT VS LVP?

In the flooring world, luxury vinyl is one of the new kids on the block. Luxury vinyl is the cousin of sheet vinyl and the competitor of laminate. When someone talks about “vinyl flooring,” they’re most likely talking about sheet vinyl. This is NOT the same a luxury vinyl. Sheet vinyl is has been around for a long time. It’s cheap and water-resistant, but it also doesn’t have a great reputation because it can look and feel cheap

PROS AND CONS OF LUXURY VINYL

Before we get into what to look for in luxury vinyl, let’s consider if it’s the right flooring for you

CONS OF LUXURY VINYL:

A Carpet Captain guide wouldn’t be complete without giving you a heads up on the problems you may run into. This isn’t to scare you off from luxury vinyl—all types of flooring have their problems

A NOTE ON PHTHALATES AND SAFETY OF LUXURY VINYL

One specific question I receive on luxury vinyl is its safety. At times, it’s had a bad reputation, and maybe even an earned a bad reputation. The reason? Luxury vinyl is a plastic. Most plastics are brittle without chemicals called plasticizers, and often these chemicals are thought to possibly be harmful especially to children and pregnant women. You’ve probably heard similar concerns with the plastic used in drinking bottles, and in Europe, some countries have banned certain plastics in children’s toys.

The plasticizers that are concerning in luxury vinyl are called phthalates. The definite impact of phthalates are unknown, but they are thought to possibly be a carcinogen and cause development and reproductive harm. With this in mind, nearly everyone is already exposed to phthalates. The CDC states 90% of Americans have measurable levels of phthalates in their bodies

 

How to Install Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring

I’ve installed just about every type of flooring the world has ever known. So when my wife chose luxury vinyl planks (LVP) for the new dining room floor, my first thought was: Why couldn’t she pick something I already know how to do? Now I’ll have to muddle through installing floating vinyl plank flooring — an unfamiliar product, hoping to avoid costly mistakes along the way.

But it turns out that there was nothing to worry about floating vinyl plank flooring. I was able to install 150 sq. ft. in less than a day without any problems. Installing vinyl plank flooring was was fast and easy compared with the other floors I’ve installed. And the next time we need new flooring, my vote will be for luxury vinyl. This article will walk you through the installing vinyl plank flooring process I followed and show you some key tips along the way when learning how to install vinyl flooring.

LV flooring is similar to sheet vinyl, but it’s thicker, tougher and easier to install. It comes in tiles and planks, but this article covers planks only. I used a product called Adura LockSolid. It’s a floating floor which means it isn’t fastened to the subfloor—it just lies there. Luxury vinyl is the fastest growing category in the flooring industry.

Installing vinyl plank flooring ca be done over most surfaces as long as those surfaces are smooth. Rough and uneven spots will telegraph through the new flooring, causing noticeable high spots that will wear faster than the rest of the floor. Concrete subfloors must be at least six weeks old, dry and free of powder and flaking. Large cracks and expansion joints should be filled and troweled smooth. Home centers sell mixable and premixed products that work on most surfaces.

Find the high and low spots on wood subfloors with a straightedge. The floor height should not rise or drop more than 1/8 in. over the span of 4 ft. Sand down the high spots with a belt sander equipped with a coarse-grit belt (Photo1). This is a dusty job, so turn off your furnace to avoid spreading dust all over the house, and wear a dust mask. Fill the low spots in the plywood with floor patch

 

Vinyl Plank Flooring: Reviews, Best Brands & Pros vs. Cons

Does this sound familiar? “Vinyl flooring gives you the look of hardwood and the durability of laminate — for a fraction of the price.” If you’ve shopped around enough, I’ll bet you’ve encountered at least one variation of that speech.

But, is it the truth or just another pitch? Well, that depends on your outlook. No flooring is 100% perfect, but Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) –  aka Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) – comes close. Before we dive in any further, understand vinyl won’t work for everyone. There are a few drawbacks. We’ll go into that in a bit, but before we do let’s discuss the benefits

Price

Luxury vinyl plank is a cost-effective way to update your home without breaking the bank. You can save thousands without sacrificing style. Unlike real wood, you can find quality vinyl for under $4 per square foot.

Style

The sky’s the limit when it comes to designing with vinyl. The options are endless. Whether you’re looking to replicate rich earthy mahogany, silvered barn wood or even natural stone, you’re sure to find the perfect shade.

Easy Installation

You won’t need to be a carpenter to install your new vinyl floors. If you’ve tackled home improvement projects in the past, it should be an easy task. Vinyl tiles are usually glued down, while most planks come pre-fitted with click & lock: locking mechanisms that click into place like a jigsaw puzzle

 

vinyl flooring buying guide

Our selection of vinyl flooring is seemingly endless, with designs ranging from wood to a stone effect, and everything in-between. Vinyl allows you to create any look you want, with hassle-free fitting and with very little on-going maintenance. We aim to make buying your new flooring easier by offering expert advice to guide you smoothly all the way through from browsing to installation. This buying guide will make it easier for you to find the perfect vinyl flooring

why choose vinyl flooring?

Also known as cushion flooring or lino flooring, vinyl will bring comfort and warmth to your home as well as amazing functionality. It works well with underfloor heating and your feet will thank you for the extra comfort it brings underfoot.

how to choose vinyl by room

You may be surprised to learn that you have probably walked on vinyl flooring in homes and businesses many times firmly believing that it was real wood, laminate or stone. Vinyl is so realistic that guests to your home will never be able to tell the difference

vinyl flooring styles

Due to the ever-improving process of vinyl printing, vinyl flooring comes in a huge array of designs and patterns – pretty much any design you fancy can be yours with each one being incredibly realistic. This wide variety of designs allows you the freedom to be creative in your home with colour and pattern. From wood to stone, mosaic to patterns, vinyl flooring is a great way to be creative with your home’s interior whatever your style. Find out what effects are available in our vinyl flooring range below.

Wood effect vinyl

Wood effect vinyl complete with knots and grain detailing is fantastically authentic. Available in any wood type you care to think of from a whitewashed finish or pale beech, to atmospheric dark walnut, in every wood shade, plank detail and finish. Some even have a textured surface creating even more realism, especially when walked on with bare feet. In fact, all wood effect vinyl flooring doesn’t have is the on-going maintenance of a real wood floor

Tips To Choose The Best Immigration Lawyer

Tips For Finding The Best Immigration Lawyer For You

One of the most important choices immigrants make is hiring the best immigration lawyer to represent them before the USCIS or in Immigration Court. The same is true for employers. We all share the urge to get the best deal we can get, but often saving money and obtaining the best representation are polar opposites

HIRE A CERTIFIED SPECIALIST

Immigrants frequently choose attorneys just because they speak their language or are from the same country as they are. Some immigration attorneys have built huge followings by blanketing ethnic newspapers with ads touting their successes. Other attorneys, including Yours Truly, are known largely through their websites

HOW IMPORTANT IS LOCATION?

Immigration law is federal. Therefore, an immigration lawyer in Texas or California can represent corporate and individual clients in all 50 states. For example, during the past few weeks, attorneys in our law firm flew to New York City, Reno, Dallas, and Philadelphia to represent clients. In a typical case, however, the petitions and applications are simply mailed to the USCIS, and no interview is required

FIND INFORMATION ABOUT THE LAWYER ONLINE

There are a host of websites that you can use to learn more about the lawyer you are interested in hiring to represent you. One especially helpful site is Avvo. You can use Avvo’s “Find a Lawyer” tool to search for immigration lawyers. Avvo contains client reviews, endorsements from other attorneys, an Avvo rating and the number of years that the attorney has been licensed.

HOW TO FIND A CERTIFIED SPECIALIST IN IMMIGRATION LAW

Four states currently certify attorneys as specialists in immigration law. If enough savvy consumers of legal services use certified specialists, we predict there will be a clamor in all states to certify legal specialists in the future.

 

TIPS FOR CHOOSING THE BEST IMMIGRATION LAWYERS

CHOOSE QUALITY

When trying to find the best immigration lawyers, it is best not to choose blindly and hire the first lawyer you come across. It is also much better to look for a high-quality lawyer that can handle your case like a professional than to choose the low-cost bargain option.

LOOK FOR A REFERRAL

When looking for an attorney for your immigration case, it is an excellent idea to dig into your personal network and find out if anyone you know has used an immigration lawyer in the past

CONFIRM CREDENTIALS

When you identify a potential attorney for your case, you need to make sure they are the real deal. Find out what their credentials are and where their experience lies. While you can find out some of this information from the lawyer’s website or from them, you can use several other sources to verify attorney credentials.

INTERVIEW THE BEST IMMIGRATION LAWYERS YOU HAVE SHORTLISTED

Once you have created a list of the best immigration lawyers you could find and narrowed down the choices to who you may want to work with, you need to reach out to them.

CHECK FOR REFERENCES

If you’re considering using a lawyer, chances are you will sit down for a consultation to discuss your needs. This is a great time to ask the attorney for references

 

Tips To Help You Find The Best Immigration Lawyer

Find out whether the attorney is recognized positively by others in the profession.

The best immigration lawyers in Dallas are recognized by their peers as the most knowledgeable and professional, and they’re a credit to their industry. Those seeking help with immigration matters should avoid attorneys with little or no positive reputation. You may also want to avoid lawyers who have limited experience but still claim to be the best immigration lawyer in Dallas. Also, please note that so-called “notarios” are not certified to practice immigration law in the United States

Ask each attorney you talk to what his or her success rate has been in similar cases.

During an initial interview, ask the immigration lawyer you’re speaking to about cases he or she has worked on. Find out if any were similar to yours, and then ask about how successful they were. In order to find the best immigration lawyer in Dallas, you’ll also want to ask for references and read reviews if any are available

Make sure the attorneys you talk to are certified members of the American Bar Association. You should also find out whether the law firm has an attorney who’s certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization in Immigration and Nationality Law.

Find out if the appropriate certifications are in place. If not, you should begin to search elsewhere. The best immigration lawyer in Dallas will be a member of the American Bar Association – and the firm where that attorney works, if not the attorney him- or herself, should have someone who’s certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization in Immigration and Nationality Law.

Check how far away the attorney’s office is from your home.

Your immigration attorney’s location is important. Being near is particularly essential if you or your family are involved in a confrontation that requires immediate protection from an immigration attorney. Contact the best immigration lawyer in Dallas at Davis & Associates Immigration Law Firm

Ensure the attorney speaks your language – or has a translator who can.

Legal advice can be complicated and must be fully understood. Firms that provide multilingual assistance ensure that their customers understand the strategies, risks, costs and processes involved

 

HOW TO FIND A GOOD IMMIGRATION ATTORNEY

Finding a lawyer who will represent you before the immigration service is one of the most important decisions an immigrant will make in their life. This task is made more difficult by the assorted advertising claims of attorneys. When you and your family seek to find the right lawyer to immigrate or to obtain permanent residence status or defend you in deportation court, it is vital to establish that this attorney has the experience, the integrity and is devoted solely to the practice of immigration law.

When looking for a lawyer or law firm it is important to examine their internet web-site. A good law firm website will list all the attorneys working at the firm with a full description of lawyer’s education, type of immigration work he or she has performed, any published articles or opinions, certification with the California State bar and admission to the various courts, both immigration and federal courts in which that attorney is admitted to practice. Well organized web-sites also provide timely information as to developments in immigration law and are a valuable resource

Equally important is client access to attorneys and paralegals in order to ascertain the status of their cases 24-7. Many top-tier law firms now make available through the internet (using a secured password) the notes of their lawyers and paralegals on the progress of the case. Clients are free to check the status of their case from any place, twenty four hours a day – seven days a week

It is also important to examine the advertising of the law firm. Avoid firms that claim to do everything. The web of laws, regulations, administrative decisions and constant changes requires the full attention of an immigration attorney. Avoid law firms or attorneys who present themselves as the “everything” firm. It’s simply not possible for an attorney to competently represent clients in immigration, real estate, family law, contract disputes, criminal law and dog bite cases. The immigration lawyer you want should be devoted to the practice of immigration law exclusively. An attorney willing to do everything, is the mark of an attorney desperate for business and willing to take on any case. Also, avoid attorneys who make outrageous claims as to results or using cheap flashy promotional stunts to impress the reader. The key here is to pay attention to the attorney’s credentials and reputation.

CREDENTIALS

Consult the California State Bar. With a click of the mouse and keyboard you can visit the California State bar at www.calbar.ca.gov. You can then click on a bar in the left-hand margin marked Attorney Resources, and just follow the cues. You can check to see if your attorney has current California Bar membership by clicking Member Search and entering the attorney’s name or bar number. Also click on Legal Specialist Search and see if your attorney is a California Bar certified specialist in immigration law, but don’t stop here!

 

Tips for Choosing an Immigration Lawyer

There’s a fair bit of paperwork to get done during the immigration process, and you may feel overwhelmed when you first sit down to prepare your immigration forms. You might begin to wonder if you need to hire an immigration lawyer to manage the process. However, if your case is fairly straightforward, you should be able to manage things on your own

There are good reasons, though, to hire an immigration lawyer to handle your case. If you run into a snag partway through the process, you might need legal assistance to work through the issue. If your immigration situation is complicated, or if you simply don’t have the time or confidence to prepare the forms yourself, you might benefit from the help of an immigration lawyer.

Get references. Ask family, friends or colleagues if they know any immigration lawyers. Even if they haven’t been through immigration themselves, they may be able to connect you with someone they know who has retained the services of an immigration lawyer. People are quick to recommend a good lawyer and even quicker to name a poor one, which can be a great help when you’re beginning your search.

Search AILA. Search for a lawyer on the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) website. AILA is a national association of lawyers and attorneys who teach and practice immigration law, so you can be reasonably certain you’re dealing with someone who understands immigration law and policies. If you’re starting your research from scratch, you can search for a lawyer in your area. If you’ve been given the names of a few lawyers, you can look them up to see if they are members. While membership in AILA is not a requirement to practice immigration law, membership can be a good indication of a lawyer’s level of commitment to the practice

Interview your short list. Interview potential lawyers to find one who matches your needs. Ask them if they have any experience with your type of case. Immigration law is a huge specialty, so you’ll want a lawyer who is familiar with your type of case. If the lawyers provide client references, use the contacts to get a better understanding of the lawyers’ work styles.