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Do you have hill or steep slope on your property? This may seem like wasted space, making it difficult to landscape or maintain. Why not make the most of this area by creating a terraced garden? Using retaining walls, you can create tiered flat areas that can be used for several different purposes. Consider these ideas for using your hill space:

• Multiple gardens. If you can create two, three or more tiered flat areas on your hill, use each for a different type of garden. One can be flowers, another herbs and of course, one for vegetables. Your hill side will become a beautiful, useful planting spot.
• Add a stairway. Make it easier to reach each tier by incorporating a stairway. Match your stairs to your retaining walls; natural stone or pavers make excellent materials for both retaining walls and stairs.
• Create a patio with a view. Why not add a separate patio on one of your tiers to give you a grand view of your property? Create a paved area with a patio set or relaxing swing. It will be a nice resting spot when you attend to your gardens. You could even add a fire pit for evening bonfires.

Not only do retaining walls allow you to use your hill space, they protect the hill from erosion. The walls give the slope structure, keeping the earth in place during heavy rains and storms.

Building a tiered hillside can be tricky; if done incorrectly, it could do more damage than good. Hire a contractor to build your stone retaining walls and stairways to ensure they are done correctly so they will last for many years to come.

Posted on behalf of:
Tri County Pavers & Design
3300 S Congress Ave
Boynton Beach, FL 33426

If you have metal staircases in your home or business, you rely on the durability these structures. Metal is perfect for staircases due to the strength it provides, especially in industrial applications. However, even metal or steel needs regular maintenance to ensure that it does not corrode, rust or breakdown. Here are few maintenance tips to extend the life of your metal staircase.

Cleaning

Dirt, dust and debris can shorten the life of your staircase. When allowed to accumulate, the grit and grime can wear down the protective coating, exposing the metal to the elements. This will also detract from the aesthetics of the metal. Cleaning should be done as often as needed.

To clean metal staircases, you can use an all-purpose floor cleaner. First, test the cleaner on a small patch of the metal to ensure the chemicals do not cause a reaction. Once tested, you can use a stiff brush to apply the cleaner according to the manufacturer’s instructions. In outdoor areas, a pressure washer or hose can be used to rinse the stairs; be careful not to use too much pressure that could harm the coating.

Inspections

You should routinely inspect your metal staircases, testing rails and treads. If any seem loose or begin to show signs of rust, schedule a repair. A local metal fabricator that specializes in staircases can fix loose welds or replace treads that have damage. 

Restoration

If multiple issues begin occurring on your staircase, it may be time for a restoration. Fixing and replacing corroded or rusted areas and adding a new coating can extend the life of your staircase by many years without the expense of replacement.

Posted on behalf of:
LCG Welding, LLC
4625 Church Road
Cumming, GA 30028

It is getting more and more expensive to own the latest technology. The days of free cell phones are in the past, especially if you want an iPhone. While some people can afford to buy a new iPhone every time a new model comes available, most people want to ensure their phone lasts as long as possible. Just like any device, your iPhone needs proper care to last. Here are some tips that can help you extend the life of your iPhone until you are ready to upgrade to another model.

Protect It

This should go without saying, but if you don’t already have a protective case or cover on your iPhone, invest in one now. It is only a matter of time before you sit on it, drop it or wear down the plastic from use.

Downloading Apps

Your iPhone is a mini computer and it is susceptible to viruses and malware. Be very careful downloading apps; choose a reliable source to avoid getting a bad bug that can crash your iPhone.

Battery Maintenance

Make your battery last longer by not overcharging or overusing it. Batteries should only be charged until they are full, then unplugged. Often people have apps that continue running in the background, using their battery life when they aren’t using their phone. Make sure this isn’t happening on your iPhone.

Repairs

Don’t try to do repairs on your own. If you damage the screen or your phone is heating up too fast, bring it to an iPhone repair shop. Makes sure the technicians are trained and certified for working on iPhones and that the company offers a good warranty on their repair work.

Posted on behalf of:
iDeviceMD
1570 Old Alabama Rd
Roswell, GA 30076
(678) 869-9899

It seems like every time you turn on the news, a major storm is hitting one area of the country. Hurricanes, floods, hail storms and high winds seem to be more prevalent than ever. The amount of damage these storms can do to your home is extensive – especially to your roof. Regardless of whether you have a metal, shingled or tiled roof, you should have it inspected after any major storm, even if you don’t see any significant damage.

Small Issues Can Lead to Big Problems

Obviously if you have missing shingles or major dents in your metal roof, you will want them repaired. But even the small issues can eventually lead to bigger, more expensive problems. Shingles that have the asphalt worn off or are slightly lifted should be repaired or replaced. They could eventually create a leak in your roof that will be much more expensive than a small repair.

Hire a Professional Roofer

The problem is that many homeowners do not know what to look for when inspecting for roof storm damage. Plus, it can be dangerous to go up on your roof without the right safety equipment and experience. If your home was exposed to a severe storm, call a local roofer to complete an inspection. They can determine if there is any damage. If there is, they can give you a written estimate for repair that you can turn into your homeowner’s insurance if it is covered. Make sure to hire a reputable, local roofer; “storm chasers” are on the prowl, looking to take advantage of homeowners after major storms.

Don’t assume your roof didn’t sustain damage just because there are no leaks or major issues. Call in a professional roofer to complete a thorough inspection to avoid costly repairs down the road.

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

Destination weddings are all the rage right now, with many ending up on rustic farms or on a private beach. These are wonderful settings, a nice change from the boring indoor weddings in chapels or other traditional wedding venues. However, there is one drawback to these natural destinations – they are not easily accessible. Women in high heels and grandparents with bad knees can have a difficult time reaching the spot of your planned nuptials. You need a transportation plan that will accommodate your guests.

Golf carts are the perfect solution for the destination wedding. While you may have considered every little detail of your special day, many do not consider this option. Yet it makes sense to ensure your guests’ safety and comfort. A few good reasons to rent one or more golf carts for your big day in a remote location:

• You don’t want someone tripping on a clump of hay or falling down a dune on your wedding day. Golf carts provide a safe ride for those in dress shoes or with disabilities.
• Comfort. A long walk to the ceremony area can be difficult for your older guests. Consider their comfort and offer them a soft seat to ride on to your wedding.
• Bragging rights. Everyone wants their wedding to be special. Having a well-organized wedding with all the right elements in place, including golf carts with drivers, will give you bragging rights.

Before you say “I do,” head to your local golf cart dealer and inquire about rentals for your big day. Make sure to plan to have designated drivers to haul your guests to and from your destination wedding location.

Posted on behalf of:
Action Specialty Carts
1891 McFarland Pkwy
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(770) 888-0892