Contractor Tips Blog

Sep
9

Tips to Protect Your Phone From Damage

If you are like most people, you depend on your smartphone for everything from actual phone calls and texts to navigation and social media. It goes everywhere you go, making it very susceptible to damage. A slip of the fingers and your phone can have a devastating crash on the pavement or land in the ocean. While it is impossible to prevent all damage, there are ways to limit the risk. Here are a few tips to extend the life of your phone.

  • Buy a quality case and screen protector. One of the bare necessities for protecting your cell phone is outer protection. A screen protector and case can give your phone extra insulation from screen cracks, scratches and even water damage. Plus, with custom options for cases, you can personalize the look of your phone.
  • Keep your phone away from metal objects. If you place your phone in your pocket or your purse, make sure it is not next to your keys or other metal objects. Keys are notorious for scratching cell phone screens.
  • Be wary of water. If you are going to be around water, leave your cell phone somewhere dry. Whether you are in the bathroom, at the beach or by the pool, leave your phone elsewhere. It is just a matter of time before it ends up in the surf or in the toilet, possibly ruining your phone.

Even with diligence in reducing the risk for damage, it still can happen. Keep in mind that most minor damage like screen cracks, water damage and battery issues can be fixed at local mobile device repair shops for a fraction of the price of replacement.

Posted on behalf of Cellairis

Sep
9

Choosing Your New Roof

Putting a new roof on your home is a large expense but necessary to protect your investment. While many people look for the most economical option, it is important to consider how long the roof will last and the value it can add to your home. There can be thousands of dollars in difference between the different roof options available, but there is also a difference in quality. Here are some of the most common roof types and their benefits and drawbacks.

  • Metal roofing. Steel and aluminum roofing are popular for their longevity. They can be affordable and now come in more aesthetic options. However, aluminum does not resist dents and damage from weather issues such as hail as well as steel metal roofs.
  • Asphalt shingles. One of the most common roof materials is asphalt shingles, with an estimated 75% of homes in the U.S. using this material. This is an economical option, although the lifespan on lower grades may be less than other materials.
  • Wood. Shakes and shingles made from wood last longer than most asphalt shingles, but usually are more expensive.
  • Slate, clay or cement tiles. While more expensive, slate, clay or cement tiles can add a unique and beautiful accent to a home while offering a long lifespan.

Just as important as the roofing material you choose is the contractor. You want a reliable contractor that has an established reputation in your area for quality work. Since this is a large expense that only should need to be done once every few decades, it is worth the extra effort to find the right material and contractor to ensure the roof you add will last and add value to your home.

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

Sep
9

What Conveyor Belt Type is Right for Your Business?

Conveyor belts are as specialized as the products they move. If you own or manage a manufacturing or shipping operation, conveyor belts are a necessary component of your business. However, if you are just beginning your manufacturing enterprise, you may still be researching which conveyor belt will be right for your business. Depending on your product, there are a few basic types of belts that will meet your needs. Consider these common conveyor belt types:

  • Vacuum. If the product you are moving needs to be held in place for gluing or other reasons, a vacuum conveyor belt may be what you need. These are also used for flat, cardboard and printing operations.
  • Cleated. When products need to be moved up an include or are flat, needing a firm grip, cleated belts are often used. These can use metal or rubber cleats, depending on the product.
  • Rough top. For solid or smooth products, rough top conveyor belts can add improved grip to keep items moving and reduce slipping issues.
  • Food grade. Food manufacturing operations need specialized conveyor belts that are designed to be sanitary for food handling. These belts may need a special coating to prevent sticking and allow easy cleaning. They also may need temperature controls for hot or cold foods.

When deciding which conveyor belt to use for your business, it is advisable to find a reputable company that specializes in the installation and service of custom conveyor belts. You will want the expertise of a conveyor belt industry leader to determine the best belt to meet your manufacturing or shipping application. With a customized conveyor, you can have the perfect belt created using one or more of the types above to meet your productivity needs.

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

Sep
9

Is it Time to Replace Your iPad?

There is no doubt that one of the most popular mobile tech devices on the market is the iPad. It is hard to believe that this iconic device was only introduced in 2010 and quickly became a staple for work, entertainment and communication. As popular as they are, they are still expensive to replace when components begin to wear out. If you have an iPad that has damage or component failure, you may be wondering if it is time to replace your device. But there is another option: repair.

There are times when it is more economical to replace an electronic device than seek a repair. Television, DVD player and stereo repair has become almost obsolete; it can often be just as expensive to repair a device than replace it. However, the popularity of mobile devices has created a new industry of affordable repair options.

Some common issues with iPads can be quickly and affordably repaired at local mobile device repair stores. Some even offer mobile repair, coming to you to repair your iPad or mobile device. Issues with your iPad that may be worth repairing include:

  • Cracked display glass
  • LCD issues
  • Battery problems
  • Water damage
  • Touchscreen issues

Before you spend a few hundred dollars on a new iPad, consider bringing it to your local mobile device repair shop for a repair estimate. An inexpensive repair may rejuvenate your old iPad, extending its life for months or even years. If the repair is more than what you want to spend, many of these repair shops also will offer to buy your old iPad, giving you some cash to put toward your new iPad. It is a win-win, either way.

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

 

Sep
9

Spring Renovations for Your Business’ Metal Stairs

Posted in Metal Stairs

Metal staircases are used in many commercial buildings due to their durability for heavy traffic and exposure to the elements. However, even the highest quality metal can begin to show fatigue and wear over time, creating aesthetic and safety issues. If you own or manage a business with metal staircases, spring is the perfect time to reevaluate whether it is time to rejuvenate their structural integrity with a restoration service.

Inspecting Your Metal Staircases

Whether your metal stairs are indoor or outside, you want to ensure they are continuing to perform at a high safety level. Even indoors, metal can be exposed to moisture and industrial components that can deteriorate the coating on the metal, causing rust and weakness at the weld points. If the elements have impacted the coating, it may be obvious from just a glance that at a bare minimum your metal stairs need new coating to protect the metal. However, safety is a higher concern.

Signs that your metal stairs could become hazardous and cause liability for your business include:

  • Treads with holes or weak points
  • Loose railings
  • Rust through coating
  • Disconnected or weak welds

Once severe deterioration begins, the metal will continue to corrode and become unsafe. However, if caught early, you can save money over a stair replacement with a metal stair renovation. A quality metal fabrication company that specializes in industrial metal stairs can restore and repair the weak points in the stairs. With recoating or painting, the aesthetic aspect can be restored along with adequate protection for the metal.

Don’t wait for an injury or accident to occur at your business due to worn metal stairs. Plan your spring stair restoration today.

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

Sep
9

Top Brands in Quality Utility Carts

Posted in Golf Carts

When it comes to buying a new street vehicle, brand integrity is important. The same is true when buying a golf or utility cart. While there are many brands to choose from, you want a brand that has earned a reputation for quality, dependability and durability. Whether you just need a simple golf cart to bring to the course or want a more rugged utility cart for expeditions into the woods, choosing the right brand and model for your needs could help protect your investment. Here are some of the top brands that offer a quality product that you can count on.

E-Z GO

A pioneer in golf cart manufacturing, EZ-GO has set the standard for quality in the industry. The company was started over fifty years ago and grew from a small Georgia company to an industrial leader in golf and utility carts.

Bad Boy Buggies

Bad Boy Buggies was started in 2003 and quickly became known for their rugged off-road electric carts that offered 4WD and low emissions that could withstand the call of the wild. The company was acquired by EZ-GO in 2010, allowing them to expand their line of quality vehicles for outdoor enthusiasts.

Cushman Carts

The Cushman name has been around for over a century, creating dependable motors and vehicles for commercial and utility applications worldwide. It is owned by Textron, Inc., the parent company of EZ-GO.

Although all three of these are related through their affiliation with Textron, Inc., each has their own excellent reputation for the carts they produce. To find out more about which of these brands will best suit your needs, talk to your local utility cart dealer that offers these fine brands.

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

Sep
9

5 Features to Consider for Your New Golf Cart

Posted in Golf Carts

Whether you are buying a golf cart for the course or for personal transportation, you want to ensure you get the right features for your needs. Just like any vehicle you buy, golf carts have a wide variety of feature options to make them more versatile and comfortable. From stereos and heaters to street legal options, you can customize your golf cart to meet your expectations. Here are five features to consider when ordering your new golf cart.

  1. Wheels. You have many options on the wheels and tires for your golf cart. If you want a customized look, low profile tires and custom wheels can transform the look of your cart. Going on trails or in the woods? Consider off-road tires for better traction.
  2. Street legal kits. Give your golf cart more versatility with a street legal kit that can transform your cart into an economical vehicle to use on the road.
  3. Custom paint. If you don’t want to settle for the standard golf cart colors, opt for a customized paint job that can reflect your unique style.
  4. Amenities. What will make you more comfortable in your golf cart? Fans, heaters, stereos and other amenities can make your new cart a joy to spend time in.
  5. Safety features. It may be just a golf cart but you still want to be safe when driving around the course, neighborhood or property. Rear view mirrors, extended windshields and other safety features can protect you and your passengers.

Get the golf cart that will meet all your function and style expectations. Talk to your local golf cart dealer about packages and pricing for adding the features that will make your new golf cart reflect your personality and needs.

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

Sep
9

Selling Your Home? Improve Curb Appeal with Pressure Washing

One of the easiest ways to improve your chances of selling your home is improving your curb appeal. However, if you don’t want to invest much more money into your home before selling, you can still make it look its best by cleaning the exterior surfaces. Pressure washing is an affordable option to remove dirt, mildew and stains that can detract from your home and improve its curb appeal. Here are a few areas to consider pressure washing before you hang your “for sale” sign:

  • Home and garage exterior. Pressure washing your siding or brick can have a large impact on the beauty of your home. When carefully executed by a professional pressure washing company, washing away grime, mildew, moss and other debris can make your old exterior look new again. Don’t forget the garage doors which are often one of the first areas noticeable from the street.
  • Wood fences and decks. Weather can make wood look aged and dingy. Pressure washing can bring out the beauty of the wood and drastically change the look of decks and fencing.
  • Paved surfaces. Remove stains, weeds and algae from paved surfaces such as driveways, sidewalks, patios and pool decks with pressure washing.
  • Roof cleaning. Make your home’s roof look pristine while protecting the integrity of the roof with pressure washing. Ensure that low pressure is used by a professional pressure washing service that will not hurt shingles and cause expensive damage.

Investing in a pressure washing service for your major surfaces can make your home look clean and well maintained, increasing its value and curb appeal. In just one day, your home can be greatly enhanced in beauty, making it more desirable to buyers.

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

Sep
9

Maintaining Your Paver Pool Deck

Posted in Paver Driveways

One of the many benefits of owning a paver pool deck is the low maintenance these beautiful decks require. Compared to other pool deck materials, pavers tend to offer more beauty and value while withstanding fading from the constant exposure to the sun. Yet even paver pool decks do need some maintenance over time to protect your investment. To keep your paver pool deck looking great and functioning properly, scheduling time for maintenance is crucial. Here are some of the ongoing maintenance chores to consider before the summer months:

  • Weeding/edging. Depending on your paver pool deck, you may need to remove weeds and edge the perimeter of your deck. Weeds can detract from your pool area and cause issues with your deck.
  • Pressure washing. Pavers are easily cleaned with pressure washing to keep them looking fantastic for pool parties and family gatherings.
  • Repairs. If your paver pool deck is older, it may need some repairs. Treating spots, replacing cracked pavers and leveling heaved areas are critical to protecting your deck. Paver repairs should be performed by a professional paver service company.
  • Sealing. Many paver pool decks may need sealing every few years to protect the surface. Your local paver company may offer sealing service.

While you can do some maintenance yourself, many of the ongoing paver maintenance projects are best performed by a paver service company. Scheduling a pool deck maintenance service for your pavers can ensure they are cleaned, repaired and sealed properly, making your deck look like new again. Call your local paver service company that offers pool deck maintenance to schedule your spring cleaning and repairs today.

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

Jun
23

Buying a New Home? Don’t Skip the Chimney Inspection

Posted in Contractors

Shopping for a new home can be daunting. There are so many factors to consider: size, location, amenities, price and so much more. You have a grocery list of items you want in a home, including structural integrity. No one wants to buy a home and then find out six months down the road it needs a major repair. Although all homes receive an inspection before sale, a general inspection may not reveal hidden issues.  If the home you want to buy has a chimney, don’t skip a specific chimney inspection before signing on the dotted line.

Hidden Chimney Problems

A general home inspection will detect a leaning chimney or one that has noticeable damage to the masonry. However, unless the issue is visible from the outside, many chimney problems will get missed. Level I or II inspections rarely catch chimney issues that are not visible. There are structural issues within the chimney that can lead to major chimney repairs and even full chimney replacement. A chimney that is unstable can become a hazard to your home as well as your family; a falling chimney can cause serious, even fatal, injuries.

If you are considering buying a home with a chimney, take the extra step of getting a qualified chimney inspection. These inspections can uncover any hidden problems within the structure, giving you the option of asking for these issues to be fixed before you buy. If the chimney passes inspection, you have the peace of mind that you won’t need a major chimney repair in the near future.

When scheduling your chimney inspection, make sure to use an honest, reputable masonry company with many years of experience in chimney repairs and replacements.

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

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…