Contractor Tips Blog

Apr
10

Must-Have Accessories for Your iPad

The iPad is one of the most popular mobile tech devices available. The intuitive system paired with incredible features make this tablet a favorite for everyone from small children to their great-grandparents. But like all tech devices, there are always accessories that can make them last longer and enhance their features. For iPad owners, here are a few must-have accessories that can make your iPad even better.

  • Case plus more. Cases are crucial for protecting your iPad, but new cases can also make it easier to use your iPad. New cases like the Folio on the Go for iPads come with a built in Bluetooth keyboard, display stand and a stylish fabric case.
  • Bluetooth speaker. Turn your iPad into your portable stereo with the addition of Bluetooth portable speaker. These small speakers enable you to share your music with your friends and family wherever you are, yet offer excellent sound and quality brands even contain subwoofers.
  • Shell Shock screen protector. Protect your iPad screen with one of the best protective accessories available. Shell Shock tempered glass screen protectors fit perfectly on your iPad,  offering excellent protection against impact and pressure damage to your device, while still allowing clear view of your display.
  • Bluetooth headset.  Enjoy excellent sound while blocking outside noise with a premium Bluetooth headset. Perfect for listening to music or other media through your iPad when traveling or in public without wires or disturbing those around you.

Accessories can make your iPad last longer, protect it from damage and enhance all the features these popular devices have to offer. Check out these and other incredible accessories at your local mobile device accessory store.

Posted on behalf:
Cellairis (inside Walmart)
12353 FM 1960 Road W
Houston, TX 77065
(713) 322-7049

Apr
10

High Return on Investment Home Improvements

When it comes to improving your home, not all projects add value to your property. While you may want to add a new hot tub, if you sell your home in a year or two, that expense will not necessarily add value to your home’s value. For anyone planning on selling their home in the near future, return on investment in terms of home value should be considered on any home improvement project. Here are a few improvements that can add value to your home, making them worth the investment.

New Windows

If you have older windows that are poorly insulated, new windows can make a big difference in your home’s energy efficiency. Double-paned windows reduce heating and cooling costs, saving you and future owners of your home money every month. New windows can also improve the beauty of your home. 

Vinyl Siding

If you have old siding or shingles, vinyl siding is a valuable addition to your home. Homebuyers are interested in homes with vinyl siding due to the low maintenance and durability of this material over other options, plus it improves your home’s curb appeal.

New Roof

If your roof needs to be replaced, it should be on the top of your home improvement list, especially if you plan to sell your home. A new roof can make your home more desirable since it is a large expense and inconvenience that new homebuyers will not want to add to the cost of the home.

When it comes to investing money into a home you will be selling in the near future, be smart with the projects you choose to get the biggest return on your money. Focus on improvements that offer energy or structural benefits versus luxury for your best return.

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

Apr
10

Choosing the Right Rubber Material for Your Manufacturing Application

All rubber products are not made equal. From pure gum rubber to silicone rubber products, there are different rubber materials that are better fitted for specific manufacturing applications. If you are searching for the right rubber product for your needs, consider which has the best components for your application and budget. Some popular rubber products used in manufacturing include:

  • Pure gum rubber. For a rubber product that is resistant to abrasion, pure gum rubber tubing or sheets is often preferred. This material handles high heats well and can be heated and cooled while still keeping its form.
  • Skirtboard rubber. If you are moving bulk material such as gravel, sand or other small granules, skirtboard rubber is an inexpensive material that is perfect for your conveyor belts. This durable material can help prevent spillovers, helping you retain your bulk product.
  • SBR rubber. Styrene-Butadiene Synthetic Rubber or SBR is used for applications in many industries, but particularly in the HVAC and construction industries. This semi-abrasive material can withstand up to 210 degrees of heat, making it an excellent product for durable applications.
  • Silicone rubber. When you need a rubber product that will not stick to your items while withstanding high heat, silicone rubber is an excellent choice. This material can be cut into many sizes and is sold in rolled bulk for manufacturers.

The best way to get the right rubber product for your budget and manufacturing application is to consult a rubber supply expert. Contact a local rubber supplier that carries a wide variety of rubber products, cut specifically for your size needs to get the best advice on purchasing rubber materials for your manufacturing business.

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

Apr
10

4 Reasons to Repair Your iPhone or iPad Screen

Do you have an iPhone or iPad with a cracked or shattered screen? It is one of the most common types of damage to mobile devices. However, you may think you don’t need to repair or replace the screen. After all, it still works, even with the cracks covering the screen. While it may function even when cracked, the longer you wait to get it fixed, the more it could cost you. Here are four good reasons to bring your i-device in to a local repair shop for a quick fix on your screen.

  1. Water damage. When your screen is cracked, there is a good chance water will get into your iPad or iPhone. Even if liquid is not spilled directly on it, moisture can enter your phone since the screen is no longer sealed. Moisture of any kind inside your device can lead to other equipment issues.
  2. Repair vs. replacement. In some cases, your screen can be repaired instead of replaced, saving you money. However, the longer you wait, the more likely you will need a full screen replacement.
  3. Partial function. Yes, you can still make calls, text and update your social media. But how well? As the cracks grow, it gets harder and harder to see the details on your screen and use all your functions.
  4. You pay too much for your i-device. You spend too much on your iPhone or iPad to not repair it. Don’t end up needing to buy a new phone or tablet because you didn’t repair your screen.

iPad and iPhone repair shops can usually fix screen problems in a matter of minutes for a fraction of the cost of device replacement. Make the time today to get your mobile device screen repaired – it’s worth the time and money.

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

Apr
10

Customizing Your Garage with Metal Counters and Cabinets

Are you planning the ultimate garage or shop? Don’t settle for pre-made shelves, cabinets and counters that are not customized for your needs. You can create the garage you always wanted with the help of a metal fabricator. By creating counters and cabinets designed specifically for your shop or garage, you will have a unique area that is customized for your needs and is one-of-a-kind.

Benefits of Metal Counters and Cabinets

Whether you are building a garage for your own personal use or a shop for your auto business, you need ample storage and workspace. Metal components are perfect for garages, handling high heat elements and other factors better than any other material. Metal is also durable and easy to clean, making it the best material for garages and shops.

By designing your own counters and cabinets with the help of a professional metal fabricator, you can make use of every inch of your shop. Counters can be made the ideal height for your needs, making it more comfortable when working on your vehicles or hobby. Utilize the vertical space in your garage by designing cabinets that give you plenty of storage options above your counters, as high as needed.

There are no limits to the garage or shop you can create when you hire a metal fabricator to build your own customized counters and cabinets. Each drawer, cabinet and counter will be made with your needs and space in mind. When complete, you’ll have a shop that is unlike any other, designed with your unique needs – the ultimate garage. Talk to your local professional metal fabricator to start planning the design for your customized metal cabinets and counters for your new garage.

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

Apr
10

5 Popular Reasons for Renting a Golf Cart

Posted in Golf Carts

Have you ever rented a golf cart? If you golf, then there is a good chance you have. But did you know that golf cart rentals are available for a variety of reasons that have nothing to do with golf? Golf carts are the perfect option for personal transportation at many events, making it an ideal rental item. Here are five popular reasons people rent a golf cart when they aren’t heading to the golf course.

  1. Weddings. Wedding season is also rental golf cart season. Destination weddings are popular, but not all guests can walk through the dunes to the beach. Golf carts are great for transporting guests that need help getting to the ceremony.
  2. Camping trips. Golf carts are an excellent option when staying at a large campground. Make traveling around the campground easy for everyone with a golf cart rental for your trip.
  3. Sporting events. Want to enjoy a day out trap shooting or hunting but walking miles is out of the question? Golf carts or a more rugged utility cart rental is a perfect way to get where you want to go.
  4. Corporate events. Is your business hosting a company picnic or a client event? Rent golf carts to help bring your guests from the parking area to the event area.
  5. Parties. Graduations, anniversaries and any kind of big party event is a perfect time to rent a golf cart. Don’t make older guests walk blocks to get to the party; have golf carts available to bring your guest to and from the party in style and comfort.

Next time you need easy, comfortable personal transportation, call your local golf cart dealer and ask about golf cart rentals. It is an easy, affordable way to make your next event the best it can be.

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

Apr
10

3 Options to Consider Adding to Your New Golf Cart

Posted in Golf Carts

Are you ready to invest in a new golf cart? Whether your new cart will actually head to the golf course or it will be used in another capacity for recreation or business, there are many options you can choose to customize your cart. The new golf carts available are far more advanced and have many features that can benefit you as an owner. Before you begin shopping for your new golf cart, consider these three options that could make your new vehicle more versatile.

  1. Street legal kits. Make your golf cart into economical transportation with a street legal kit. Even if you plan on using it mostly on the course or on your property, having your cart street legal adds value and can be useful for quick trips around the neighborhood.
  2. Comfort features. Cup holders, heaters and stereos are standard in cars, but not necessarily in golf carts. However, almost anything available for your car is also available in golf carts, just as custom options, not standard.
  3. Tires and wheels. You can opt for off road tires or larger wheels on your new golf cart, giving you more options where you can take your new cart. Larger wheels with better traction on your tires allows for more clearance to go into more rugged terrain.

Don’t settle for a plain golf cart when you can customize your new cart with all the newest options. Talk to your golf cart dealer about all the new features that are available for your new golf cart and make it exactly the way you want before you buy it.

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

Apr
10

Dangers of Water Damage to Your Home

It does not take a major flood to cause water damage which can cause thousands of dollars of damage. There are several ways water can enter your home. A leaky roof, a burst plumbing pipe or a damaged water heater can all unleash water into your home that can quickly destroy your furnishings and even compromise the structure of your home. If you have a water emergency, you need a professional water restoration or removal services to prevent further damage. Trying to handle the water removal yourself can lead to bigger and more expensive problems. Here are some of the dangers of water damage to your home.

  • What you can’t see. It is easy enough to mop up water on your floors, but what about the water you can’t see? There may be water pooled under the flooring, behind walls or soaked into the carpet padding.
  • Rot and wood damage. The moisture from a leak or flood in your home can cause rot and structural damage. This can lead to major repairs down the road in your home, replacement of furniture and many other issues.
  • Mold damage. The biggest danger of water in your home is if it is not removed completely and quickly. A small amount of moisture can lead a large mold problem that can be dangerous to your family’s health and require extensive repairs in your home.

If you have a water problem in your home, call a professional water restoration service to right away to remove all moisture from your home. It is worth the investment to ensure that your home is protected from further dangers of water infiltration with professional water removal services.

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

Apr
10

Advantages of Upgrading to a New Paver Pool Deck

Posted in Paving

Is your old pool deck faded or cracked? Nothing is as beautiful around your pool than a paver pool deck, but many homeowners are concerned about the cost of installation. While natural stone paver pool decks are more expensive than most other types of pool deck materials, they are often worth the investment. Before replacing your old pool deck with cement or another cost effective material, consider the advantages of upgrading to a new paver pool deck for your home.

  • Unbeatable style. Paver pool decks are elegant and stylish, with many options in designs and colors. You will add beauty to your backyard and improve the ambiance for your pool parties.
  • Add value to your home. Having the best materials for your pool deck like natural stone pavers made of tumbled marble or travertine actually increase the value of your home.
  • Lower maintenance. Paver pool decks are easy to maintain, making them a favorite for pool owners. They are easy to clean, plus repairs are quick and cost effective.
  • Durability and fade resistance. Pavers made from natural stone will last for decades if cared for properly. The stone will not fade like many other deck materials and will hold up for many years.
  • Drainage. Pavers are perfect for pool decks as they offer easy drainage compared to solid materials such as concrete.

Over the life of your new paver pool deck, the advantages can outweigh the initial costs. With the value and beauty they can add to your home, and the longevity and easy maintenance, pavers are a smart choice when you are ready to replace your pool deck.

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

Mar
13

Dangers of Lintel Damage Above Garage Doors

Posted in Masonry

Behind the exterior of a brick garage lies the frame work that holds the masonry and structure in place. One of these crucial elements is the lintel, the steel support that spans across the top of the garage door. This steel can become rusted and begin to sag and bend due to water penetration under the bricks. This damage to lintels can put the structural integrity of the garage, especially the doors, in danger, causing a hazardous condition.

Once there is lintel damage, the garage door openings can begin to shift. In many cases, the garage doors will begin to lean or sag, causing dysfunction when they open and close. The danger is that the change in the underlying structure could cause the doors to fall or drop unexpectedly, or the entire opening could crumble. This could cause damage to vehicles, or worse, cause a severe injury to someone walking through the garage opening when it fails.

Although lintel repair is usually needed in older brick garages, it is not always age that causes the problem. Poor flashing and other construction issues when assembling the garage can lead to premature lintel failure. The first signs of issues with lintels in garages is usually cracks or shifting of the bricks above the garage doors or windows.

At the first sign of lintel damage on your brick garage, call a masonry specialist to inspect your garage door. Although lintel repair does require weeks to be completed correctly, if performed by a masonry specialist, it can last a lifetime. Most lintels need to be repaired due to lack of insulation on the steel or other issues that can be eliminated permanently with a professional masonry repair.

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

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