Contractor Tips Blog
Are Your Old Windows Costing You Money?
One of the biggest factors in reducing your home heating or cooling energy bills is your windows. Poorly insulated windows drain your home of your heated air in the winter, and the costly cooled air in the summer. Although it can be a big investment to replace your old windows, it may actually save you money if you choose energy-efficient windows for your home.
Choosing Energy-Efficient Windows
If you own older windows with poor insulation or made of lower-quality materials, you may be spending hundreds of extra dollars each year in energy costs. Single-paned windows were commonly installed in older homes, with very little to keep outside air at bay. New technology has been used to create energy efficient windows, which can make a noticeable difference in your energy costs. Some of the factors that impact new window energy efficiency include:
- Dual-panes. Switching from single to dual-paned windows offers more insulation.
- Gas-filled. Windows featuring a gas-filled barrier can improve the thermal performance.
- Low-e coatings. Low-emissivity, or low-e, coatings on window glass can reduce energy loss by up to 50%.
- Energy Star approval. Windows that have received the Energy Star rating are proven to help improve energy usage.
Energy efficient windows come in all the same styles and options as other windows, adding beauty as well as value to your home. The biggest difference can be noticed during the coldest or hottest months of the year, when you will see the most substantial impact on your energy bills.
To start saving money on energy costs while adding value to your home, talk to your local home improvement contractor about installing new energy efficient windows. It’s worth the investment to improve the indoor climate of your home, while saving money off your energy bills for many years to come.
Posted on behalf of:
Atwood Home Builders
227 W 8th Ave
Homestead, PA 15120
(412) 638-1262
Choosing the Right Conveyor Belt for Your Application
If you own a growing manufacturing business, you may be considering the addition of conveyor belts to your operation. There are few pieces of equipment which are as essential to large manufacturing operations as the conveyor belt, reducing labor costs and increasing production. However, it’s not as simple as just adding a conveyor belt. You first need to decide which is going to best meet the needs of your particular business.
Cleated Conveyor Belts
For moving flat items or product up a steep incline, cleated conveyor belts are an excellent option. You can have cleated belts custom-made for your product, or choose rubber cleats to help with items which are difficult to keep in place.
Food Grade Conveyor Belts
If you produce food products, there are unique concerns when purchasing conveyor belts. You will need food-grade conveyor belts made of materials which have been approved by the USDA, installed by a quality conveyor belt provider. You may also need to consider adding coating to your belt to protect it from staining and to provide easy removal of adhesive substances.
Rough Top Conveyor Belts
Do you need to move packaged materials? You may need to have a rough-top conveyor belt that will easily hold smooth surfaces, such as packed cardboard boxes. These are used by many shipping outfits to process packages quickly and efficiently.
Vacuum Conveyor Belts
Some products may need to be held flat to your belt, such as paper or cardboard products. If you need a secure grip on a flat product or to hold an item in a specific position, you may need a vacuum conveyor belt for your application.
As important as the type of conveyor belt you choose is the company that installs and services your new belt. Make sure to choose a conveyor belt company that offers a variety of commercial belts, and ongoing repair and service plans for all your conveyor belt needs.
Posted on behalf of:
The King Group, Inc.
6865 Shiloh Road East, #100
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(770) 886-1113
Should You Repair or Sell Your Broken Mobile Device?
You spend hundreds of dollars to have the latest mobile phone or device, making a substantial investment. So what should you do if your mobile device is broken? Unlike a decade ago, you do have options beyond just upgrading to a new device when availability eventually opens on your account. In many circumstances, you may be able to have your device repaired at a fraction of the cost of buying new. Another option is selling your device for cash, giving you money to spend on your new phone or tablet. Which is the best option for your broken device?
Repairing Your Device
For many, repairing their existing device is the most affordable option. However, it depends on what needs to be repaired and the age of the device. For newer phones and tablets, it’s usually worth investigating repairs versus replacement. Some types of repairs that can be done on devices such as iPhones, Samsung Galaxy and iPad devices are:
– Black screen replacement
– White screen replacement
– Water damage
– Battery replacement
Since most newer devices will cost hundreds of dollars to replace, a repair can be a viable option. For older models or severely damaged devices, it may be best to consider selling and replacing with a new device, though.
Getting the Best Price for Your Broken Device
Even a non-functioning mobile device can be worth money. To get the best price for your old device, consider selling to a mobile device repair company. Since they are in the business of repairing these devices, they often will offer the best price for your broken phone or tablet, saving you money on the purchase of a new device.
Posted on behalf of:
iDeviceMD
1570 Old Alabama Rd
Roswell, GA 30076
(678) 869-9899
Versatility of Metal Staircases
In commercial applications, metal staircases are generally chosen for their durability, but it’s not just the strength of steel that makes metal staircases the best choice for apartment complexes, industrial buildings and other commercial settings. Custom fabrication allows for unlimited versatility in the size, design and options for metal staircases.
Creating the Best Staircase for Your Business
The benefit of using custom metal fabrication for creating your staircase is your control over added features. An experienced metal fabricator can create a staircase specifically designed to meet your architectural and functional needs. From tread length to railing design, you can work with your fabricator to build a completely unique staircase for your business. Some factors to keep in mind include:
– Weight restrictions. For industrial staircases, you may need higher weight capacities. Talk to your fabricator about reinforced stairs to handle higher weights.
– Aesthetics. Metal is not only durable; it also can be beautiful. Talented metal fabricators can create metal stairs and railings that are as aesthetically pleasing as they are strong.
– Space. Metal stairs can be designed to fit into almost any space, including spiral cases for small areas and many other options.
– Coatings. For exterior stairways, choose from a variety of coatings to protect the metal from the elements for longer lasting results.
Metal staircases are one of the best options for any commercial setting. If you are planning a new commercial building with multiple stories, consider the benefits and versatility of having customized metal staircases created for your project. Contact a quality metal fabricator who is experienced in commercial application to begin designing the best staircases for your new building.
Posted on behalf of:
LCG Welding, LLC
4625 Church Road
Cumming, GA 30028
How Would You Use a Bad Boy Buggy?
Golf and utility carts have become the ultimate personal transportation vehicles for work and play, both on and off the golf course. It’s only natural that a company would expand this popularity by evolving these carts into rugged vehicles capable of going farther, faster and hauling more than their predecessors. Bad Boy Buggies are those vehicles, offering an entire line of golf cart-inspired vehicles for the sportsman, farmer and outdoor lover.
Utility Carts with Attitude
Bad Boy Buggies are made for those who need a high powered cart able to take a little more abuse than your average golf or utility cart. Many models come with 4-wheel drive, hauling ability and even towing capacity. Some of the popular models include:
– Instinct. The Bad Boy Instinct is a 2WD electric cart that can drive up to 50 miles between charges, perfect for a day outdoors. Instinct comes equipped with brush guards, 4-wheel disc brakes and a 72-Volt AC drivetrain.
– Ambush iS. Want the power and distance of a gas motor with the stealth of electric? The Ambush iS gives you the option of using either gas or electric, with a max load of 900 lbs.
– Recoil iS. Bad Boy offers several options on the Recoil iS model. One is the Crew, which has 4WD, 72-Volt AC electric drivetrain and up to 40 miles between charges.
There are many other varieties of Bad Boy Buggies, all designed to make the work day easier or the play day more fun. Check out the full line at your local Bad Boy Buggies retailer for more information.
Posted on behalf of:
Action Specialty Carts
1891 McFarland Pkwy
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(770) 888-0892
What Big Events Do You Have Planned for 2015?
Are you getting married this year, or celebrating a graduation in the family? Big events call for big celebrations. For many families, this means large gatherings that require special planning. The first items that come to mind when planning a large event like a wedding or graduation may be venues, catering and entertainment, but there’s one more consideration to add to your list: personal transportation for your guests.
Golf Cart Rentals for Big Events
Most big events will have guests of all ages, with a variety of physical needs. For outdoor celebrations, you need to consider how your guests will get from one area to the next. A great solution is renting golf carts for personal transportation. This is an economical option to ensure all your guests can enjoy the day, without the pain of walking long distances.
Some of the events where golf cart rentals are an ideal addition include:
- Beach weddings. Walking on the beach is romantic; it is also difficult for many elderly people or guests with mobility issues. Having rented golf carts for your guests will ensure everyone can watch the beautiful ceremony.
- Park settings. Having a large party in a park? Greet guests at the parking area with a golf cart to transport them to the festivities.
- Limited parking. Any event where guests will need to park at a distance, it’s worth the investment in a golf cart rental agreement. Make it easy for all your family and friends to join in on the fun, regardless of how far away they have to park their vehicle.
Golf cart rentals are the final piece of the puzzle to make sure your next big event is a success! Talk to your local golf cart rental service to reserve your rentals for an upcoming celebration.
Posted on behalf of:
Top Dog Golf Carts
55055Hammond Industrial Dr
Cumming, GA 30041
(770) 887-7433
Selling Your Home? Pressure Washing Can Increase Your Curb Appeal
For most families, the money paid for a home is one of the largest investments they will make. When it comes time to sell due to a move or changes in lifestyle, it’s important to get the best price for your home. There are many factors which can affect overall value; however, curb appeal is one factor which can be easily and affordably improved. One excellent way to do this is through pressure washing.
Curb Appeal Starts with a Clean Home
Nothing can detract from the beauty of your home more than dirt, grime and mildew that accumulates on your siding, roof and hard surfaces. The outdoor elements dull all the surfaces of your home, making it look rundown. While new siding or a new deck may not be an affordable option to improve the curb appeal of your home before you put it on the market, almost any homeowner can afford a pressure washing service.
Pressure washing can safely remove years of exposure to the elements, adding value to your home and increasing the curb appeal. Consider having these areas pressure washed before prospective buyers begin looking at your home:
- Driveways and sidewalks. Pressure washing can remove stains and mildew off your driveway and paved surfaces, making them look like new again.
- Siding. Vinyl siding can look dull after a few years out in the weather. Pressure washing cleans away pollen, mildew and dirt, making your home look like it just received a new paint job.
- Roofs, patios and pool decks. All hard surfaces can benefit from a cleaning before putting your home up for sale.
It’s difficult to find any home improvement service which can offer such a dramatic effect on your home’s curb appeal for the price of a professional pressure washing. Call your local pressure washing service today to schedule your home cleaning before you sell your property this year.
Posted on behalf of:
Impact Pressure Washing
105 Commerce Drive
Fayetteville, GA 30214
(678) 697-7127
Pave a New Path to Your Home
Are you lacking a sidewalk to your front door, or is your old walk cracked and sprouting grass? Maybe it’s time to lay a new path to your home with classic pavers. A quality paver walkway protects your front lawn and landscaping from visitor’s feet, and adds a touch of beauty to boost your home’s curb appeal.
Benefits of Pavers for Pathways
Pavers are one of the most desirable materials for sidewalks and pathways due to their beauty, durability and easy maintenance. The only drawback for most homeowners is the initial cost. Pavers can be more expensive than other options, yet if you consider the benefits, it may be worth the investment.
- Curb appeal. Paver pathways are a beautiful addition to your front entrance, enhancing your home and increasing its value through added curb appeal.
- Lasting power. Pavers are very durable, lasting for many years. Unlike poured concrete, the flexibility of pavers allows for subtle changes in the soil without cracking.
- Low maintenance. Paver surfaces are easy to repair and maintain, with low-cost replacement possible for individual pavers available when needed.
These benefits are often worth the extra investment over other options. In addition, there are many paver choices which may be much more affordable for homeowners on a tight budget.
Unrivaled beauty and easy care makes pavers an excellent choice for sidewalks, as well as other outdoor area around your home, including patio areas and pool decks. If you are considering adding a new pathway or replacing an old sidewalk on your property, talk to your local paver contractor about the value and benefits of using pavers.
Posted on behalf of:
Tri County Pavers & Design
3300 S Congress Ave
Boynton Beach, FL 33426
Custom Golf Carts
People customize their homes, their clothing, and their baggage – so why not customize their golf carts, too! Golf carts have been a means of transportation since the 1930s. What originally started as a means of transportation for those with disabilities, golf carts gained wide use and acceptance from golfers and residential homeowners. Electric golf cars are used in many communities as the main source of transportation, and it is no wonder that custom golf carts are the latest rage among owners.
Custom golf carts are a way for people to express themselves, their personalities, and their loyalty. Whether it is support of a favorite sports team, the showing off of a favorite color, or just a person or family’s way to express themselves, custom golf carts can be a reflection of a person or family. Customized options for golf carts include paint jobs, lift kits, large wheels, off-road wheels, rear view mirrors, safety features, speed chips, street legal kits, and more. Basically, if a person can dream it (and has the money to spend) s/he can have it in a golf cart!
There are several companies offering custom golf carts across the United States. Finding one that meets the criteria of your customization requires a little research. Knowing what you want is important, and a custom golf cart supplier can offer a unique and personalized approach to your golf cart. A simple search on Google can provide endless ideas for a custom golf cart design. If you are interested in having a golf cart customized, begin your design search and enjoy the ride!
Posted on behalf of:
Top Dog Golf Carts
55055Hammond Industrial Dr
Cumming, GA 30041
(770) 887-7433
Golf Cart Event Rentals
Large events or events held at a large venue often require a great deal of walking for visitors. While some patrons may appreciate the exercise, an event that requires nice shoes, nice attire, or that has attracted those of differing ages may require the service of transportation. Golf cart rentals are especially practical and appreciated for such events. With different options in golf cart rentals available, event planners can find ones perfect for those special occasions where transportation is needed.
Weddings held at large venues are especially popular these days. A wedding ceremony may be held outdoors at a special spot with the reception held hundreds of yards away at a pavilion or reception hall. The distance between the two locations may require difficult walking for those in high heels, those with disabilities, or the elderly. The terrain may also be unsuitable for casual walking, even if the grounds are immaculately kept. Golf cart event rentals are the perfect solution. With 6 passenger, 8 passenger, and 14 passenger golf carts available for rental, guests are able to travel in comfort between destinations in a timely and practical manner.
Golf cart rentals are also helpful for corporate events where employees and guests need to travel to and from multiple destinations in a certain amount of time. Golf carts can travel back and forth carrying passengers much quicker than people can travel on foot.
For golf cart event rentals in your area, search for a trusted and insured golf cart rental company. Golf carts can add an element of enjoyment to any occasion for guests who may not appreciate, or may not be able to, travel by foot.
Posted on behalf of:
Action Specialty Carts
1891 McFarland Pkwy
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(770) 888-0892
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