Contractor Tips Blog

Dec
3

Golf Cart Battery Maintenance 101

Posted in Golf Carts

If you own an electric golf cart, caring for your batteries is the single most important maintenance task. Knowing the best way to perform routine maintenance and charging can help your batteries last longer. Most golf cart batteries can last for up to six years when properly maintained, saving you money off early replacement. Here are golf cart battery maintenance tips to extend the life of your batteries.

Never Discharge Over 80%

When your golf cart battery is discharged 80%, it needs to be recharged. You do not want to go below a 20% charge – it can harm your battery.

Charge Every Time You Use Your Golf Cart

You want to maintain a complete charge on your batteries. Fully charge your batteries, usually overnight, after using your golf cart. The charge can last for up to two months.

Fill Water

Your water holes should be kept full – fill the water holes with distilled water, never tap, after your batteries are fully charged. The water should be about a ¼ to ½ inch above the plate.

Clean and Dry Top of Battery

You will want to clean your battery to avoid corrosion. You can use baking soda and water with a wire brush to clean the terminals – make sure to wear gloves and dry the battery thoroughly after cleaning.

Invest in an Automatic Charger

To ensure your batteries are not overcharged, invest in an automatic charger that will turn off when your battery is fully charged. If you only use your golf cart seasonally, consider a charger with an advanced storage feature. This will give your battery a “refresh” charge every 2 months to keep it maintained in the offseason.

With a little maintenance, you can make sure your golf cart batteries are ready to go every time you need them and make them last longer. Talk to your local golf cart dealer about purchasing the right charger to maintain your batteries.

Posted on behalf of:
Top Dog Golf Carts
55055 Hammond Industrial Dr
Cumming, GA 30041
(770) 887-7433

Dec
3

What is the Difference Between Standard and Metric Timing Belts?

Posted in Conveyor Belts

If you have industrial manufacturing equipment, there is a good chance you have machinery that requires a timing belt. These belts regulate the movement of shafts or camshafts, needing precision in the “timing” to function correctly. Machinery used for cutting, stamping and other manufacturing processes often require a timing belt, just like most vehicles. There are metric and standard timing belts used for machinery – knowing the difference is important when it comes to replacement.

Standard Timing Belts

For equipment made for use in the U.S., most use a standard timing belt. These belts are designed to work on the standard U.S. measurement system. Timing belts come with specifications that are all based on weights and measurements. If the timing belt needed must be a certain length, tensile strength, pitch size and tension strength, these measurements will be in U.S. standard.

Metric Timing Belts

Equipment and machinery made in other countries may use metric timing belts. These belts perform the same as standard timing belts but all attributes are based on the metric measurement system. It is important to know which type of belt you will need and the exact specifications needed before you contact a supplier.

Customized Timing Belts

In some cases, the equipment you use may no longer have parts available. It is not uncommon for timing belts on older equipment to be no longer in stock. In some cases, you may need to have a timing belt customized to fit your equipment.

If you need a new timing belt for your production line equipment, contact an industrial supplier that offers standard, metric and customized timing belts to ensure you get the right belt for your needs.

Posted on behalf of:
The King Group, Inc.
6865 Shiloh Road East, #100
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(770) 886-1113

Dec
3

Stylize Your Entrance with a Customized Metal Gate

Why settle for an ordinary gate for your driveway or yard? Metal fabrication gives you the option of customizing a gate that will make a lasting impression on your guests. Metal gates can be custom designed for any size of entrance to your home or business, with unlimited possibilities. Here are a few ideas for creating a unique look for your entrance with a customized metal gate.

Classic Scrolls and Swirls

Many standard wrought iron gates will have scrolls and swirls in the design. However, you can create your own unique design using these classic elements. One of the benefits of metal fabrication is that you can create curves in any pattern, using classic swirls, spirals and arches that create a classic, yet custom-look, for your front gate.

Straight Lines

If you want a modern or contemporary style, straight lines and simplicity may be the best choice for your new gate. You can use simple lines with emphasis on the spires and finials that adorn the top of a gate for a custom look.

Letters, Leaves, Symbols and More

With metal gates, you can create a piece of art for your entrance. You can incorporate initials or other lettering; symbols or geometrical designs can be used. Flowers, leaves, animals or gothic shapes can be part of design. A talented metal fabricator can make your ideas come to life in an artistic metal gate that will make a unique statement at the entrance of your home or business.

If you are looking for a stylish option for your entrance, contact a local metal fabricator. With the right fabricator, you can create a metal gate that will emulate your unique style and last for decades.

Posted on behalf of:
LCG Welding, LLC
4625 Church Road
Cumming, GA 30028
(678) 455-5552

Dec
3

Protect Your Home with Routine Gutter Cleaning

Your home’s gutter system provides a valuable service by directing water run-off from your roof away from your home. When gutters become clogged with debris, they can overflow and retain water under your eaves that can cause serious damage. Routine gutter cleaning helps ensure this system is working correctly to provide the drainage benefits necessary to protect your home from too much water saturation.

When gutters are clogged, water will be prevented from safely draining away from your home. This can cause many issues over time. If the water is flowing down your siding, it can cause mildew and damage to the sides of your home. Water that is retained in gutters can also lead to rot under your eaves. Plus, the water that seeps into the ground around your home can cause soil erosion that can impact your foundation and landscaping. Cleaning your gutters at least once a year is the best way to prevent these types of drainage issues.

Hire a Professional for Safe Gutter Cleaning

While you can clean your gutters yourself, it can be a dangerous job. Standing on a ladder or on your roof while using a pressure washer or removing debris by hand is risky. It is worth the investment to hire a professional that has the right training and equipment to clean your gutters thoroughly while you stay safely on the ground.

Early spring and late fall are usually the most beneficial times to perform gutter cleaning to ensure your system stays clear of debris. It is a wise investment to hire a pressure washing company to perform this task, protecting your home and property from water and drainage issues.

Posted on behalf of:
Impact Pressure Washing
105 Commerce Drive
Fayetteville, GA 30214
(678) 697-7127

Oct
16

Protect Your Fleet Investment with Pro Cleaning

If you have a fleet of trucks, vans or other vehicles for your business, this represents a large investment. Not only do you want to maintain the engine, brakes, tires and other mechanical components, you want to keep your fleet clean. Not only does dirt, salt, oil and other substances damage your paint and frame, dirty vehicles can tarnish your business’ image. Professional cleaning can protect the investment in your fleet and improve your brand’s image.

Benefits of Routine Fleet Cleaning

If your fleet is on the road day in and day out, it is going to get dirty. While you cannot expect to wash a full fleet every day, routine cleaning should be done at minimum twice a month. When you hire a professional pressure washing company to clean your fleet regularly, you can benefit from this investment. Some benefits include:

  • Protect your fleet’s paint from damage
  • Remove chemicals that can cause rust and premature frame deterioration
  • Your fleet is a rolling advertisement – keeping your vehicles clean improves your brand image
  • Retain value or protect your lease on your fleet vehicles

When you invest in regular fleet maintenance, you are protecting one of your business’ largest assets. Dirty fleet vehicles are not only a stain on your reputation, it can cost you more in lost value or damage to the vehicles. Fleeting cleaning can give you a big return on your investment.

To keep your fleet clean, sign up for ongoing cleaning through a local power washing service. They have the right equipment and expertise to protect your investment in your fleet and cleanup up your business’ image.

Posted on behalf of:
Impact Pressure Washing
105 Commerce Drive
Fayetteville, GA 30214
(678) 697-7127

Oct
16

Can I Replace My iPhone Battery Myself?

If you love your iPhone, there is a good chance you have put the battery to the test. When the time between charges gets shorter and shorter or your phone seems to be slowing down, it may be time to replace the battery. However, iPhone batteries do not just “pop out” like many other cell phones. Replacing the battery is a little more challenging and requires the right tools and expertise.

To replace an iPhone battery, it is more than just popping off the back of the case of the phone. You need a battery removal kit to have the right tools to do the job. iPhones are glued and screwed together. You will need to carefully remove adhesive and screws to take out the battery and inset the new one. The problem is that if done incorrectly, you can break the adhesive and even damage the battery. Plus, on newer iPhones, you can lose the waterproofing once the glue is removed.

Bring Your iPhone to a Pro

While you can buy the kits to replace your own iPhone battery, it is worth it to have a professional do this job for you. It is not worth the risk of damaging your device to save a few bucks off a battery replacement service. Find a quality cell phone repair shop that specializes in iPhone repairs and bring your phone in for a battery replacement. These pros have the training and tools to do the repair right – make sure to ask if they warranty their services.

Some tasks are best left to the professionals. If you iPhone battery needs replacement, bring it to a local cell phone repair shop versus doing it yourself.

Posted on behalf of Cellairis

Oct
16

Skip Summer Painting with New Vinyl Siding

Posted in Siding

If your home is beginning to look shabby due to fading or peeling paint, you probably are planning to resolve the issue once the summer weather arrives. Summer is the best time for painting, but what is even better is not needing to paint at all. If you are tired of repainting your home every 5-10 years, why not invest in a different siding solution. With vinyl siding, you can say goodbye to painting your home for good.

Advantages of Vinyl Siding

When you change to vinyl siding over wood or composite siding, you gain many advantages for your home. Vinyl siding offers a long-lasting covering for your home that requires very little maintenance. Some of the benefits of vinyl siding include:

  • Energy savings. Vinyl siding can help insulate homes and keep energy costs down.
  • Low-cost installation. Compared to wood, vinyl is cost-effective for installation.
  • Wide variety of styles. Vinyl comes in different styles, including mimicking the look of wood shingles.
  • Low-maintenance. One of the biggest reasons people love vinyl siding is that it never needs to be painted and will not rot and resists mildew. It can be kept clean easily with pressure washing.
  • Durable. Vinyl siding can last for decades and stands up to all types of weather elements without problems.

While wood has been the go-to siding for many years, vinyl siding now accounts for close to 40% of the siding market. This growth is due to the many advantages it offers, especially when it comes to your bank account. It is less expensive to install and maintain, plus it helps you save on your energy bills. Contact your local home improvement contractor to learn more about switching to vinyl siding versus painting your home again this summer.

Posted on behalf of:
Atwood Home Builders
227 W 8
th Ave
Homestead, PA 15120
(412) 638-1262

Oct
16

Common Cause of Window and Door Problems

Does your door stick when it opens or closes? Do you have windows that are hard to open or will not open at all? When you have doors and windows that are not working right, it may be a bigger problem. If your home is settling or your foundation is sinking, it can affect your home’s structure. Window and door problems can be one of the first signs you may need a foundation repair.

One door or window that does not work correctly could be an isolated issue. However, when you have more than one door or window that are not opening or closing right, it may be a structure issue. Even if there is not a noticeable change in the level of your home, you could be experiencing the beginning of foundation problems. This issue will only continue to get worse if the foundation is settling and could eventually cause serious structural problems.

Hire a Foundation Specialist for an Inspection

To determine whether a foundation problem is causing your door and window issues, contact a foundation specialist. They can perform a thorough inspection on your foundation to determine if it is sinking or settling. Catching this issue early can give you a chance to have your foundation leveled or repaired to prevent serious and expensive damage to your home’s structure.

If more than one window or door are hard to open or close, you should consider that a foundation problem may be causing these issues. Find a foundation professional to inspect your home and foundation. Not only could this help resolve annoying door and window dysfunction, it can protect your home from further structure damage.

Posted on behalf of:
Anglin’s Foundation & Masonry Repairs
1027 Oregon Trail
Marietta, GA 30008
(770) 422-2924

Oct
16

The History of the Golf Cart

Posted in Golf Carts

Today’s golf carts go far beyond just traveling between 18-holes. Golf carts have come off the course and now are used in airports, for personal transportation, for events and all types of activities. Have you ever wondered when and how these economical and eco-friendly vehicles were invented? Here is a brief timeline on the history of the golf cart and how they become a staple for business and personal use.

  • Golf carts were first actual carts that were pulled like rickshaws by caddies…in the 1930-40’s these were used on some courses and the first versions of electric golf carts were devised based on this concept. However, none caught on for mass production during these early stages.
  • R.J. Jackson marketed the first gas-powered, 3-wheeled golf cart in the 1950’s called the Arthritis Special, geared toward elderly golfers.
  • Marketeer began selling electric golf carts in 1951, which quickly became more popular than the gas-powered version. They were quieter without smoke, traits that were appreciated on the golf course.
  • During the 50’s, several other companies began making golf carts, including E-Z Go in 1954, which are still around today
  • By the 1960’s, golf courses began to rent carts to give those unable to buy their own an option for course transportation.
  • 1970’s until today, golf carts remain similar but with more options and better technology. Batteries last longer, more custom options can be added and street legal kits are available, making them popular for many different activities.

Golf carts have come a long way since they were pulled around by caddies. To see all the new options in golf carts, visit a local golf cart dealer and checkout all the models and features available.

Posted on behalf of:
Top Dog Golf Carts
55055 Hammond Industrial Dr
Cumming, GA 30041
(770) 887-7433

Oct
16

Benefits of Customized Iron Fencing

If you are planning to add new fencing to your home or business, there are several materials and styles to consider. Wood fences in various styles are available, as are vinyl versions that mimic wood. There is chain link and wire for inexpensive, secure options when style is not a concern. But if you want a unique, stylish option, customized iron fencing offers many benefits over other materials.

Elegant Style

If you want to add beauty to your home or business, wrought iron or customized metal fencing adds elegance and a classic style. With metal, you can have the components customized to create any look you desire. Metal fabricators can incorporate initials, designs, patterns or other features to make your fencing and gates unique.

Durable Design

Iron or metal fencing can last for decades, making it a worthwhile investment. When properly coated, this durable fencing can withstand all types of weather without rusting or decay. Although metal fencing does not provide much privacy, it offers security for homes and business, helping deter intruders.

Easy Maintenance

No staining or regular cleaning is needed to keep metal fencing looking sharp. Iron or other customized metal fencing is easy to maintain. Coating or painting may be needed once every several years to prevent rust, depending on the quality of coating or paint on the original fencing.

If you want fencing that adds style to your property while providing security, customized iron or metal fencing is an excellent choice. Contact a metal fabricator in your area to discuss the many options available. Talented fabricators can create a unique fencing design that will set your home or business apart from the rest.

Posted on behalf of:
LCG Welding, LLC
4625 Church Road
Cumming, GA 30028
(678) 455-5552

Most Popular

How Often Should You Service Your Golf Cart?

Just like any other vehicle, a golf cart needs routine maintenance to keep it running smoothly and efficiently. And just like other vehicles, what kind of cart you have depends…

Quality Metal Stairs for Apartments

Metal stairs for apartment complexes come in a variety of styles, shapes, and sizes.  And, as with any building that’s accessible by the public, safety is top priority. Apartment complex…

Pros and Cons of Smartphone Insurance

Many people spend more on their smartphones than on computers – a new iPhone can cost several hundred dollars or more. Most wireless carriers and manufacturers offer insurance for a…