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Smartphones were once only for busy professionals and tech-savvy consumers. The old Blackberries were for the mobile professional that needed to stay in touch on the go, but few people used them for personal communication. The iPhone changed that concept, and now most people who have a cell phone own a smartphone. Per the Pew Research Center, 77% of cell phone owners have a smartphone as of 2017 and that number is expected to grow. If you are one of the few cell phone owners without a smartphone, here are some benefits to upgrading.

• GPS. Get directions wherever you are with a GPS app on your phone. It doesn’t matter what vehicle you are in, you have GPS right in your phone to get directions.
• Email on the go. Check your email and stay in touch when you are on vacation or just at the store. Your email account can easily be added to your smartphone, even by those not tech-savvy.
• Camera. One of the most popular features on quality smartphones is a clear, digital camera. While non-smartphones have cameras, they do not have the quality that is available on most smartphones. Plus, you can share pictures through text, email and social media, right from your phone.

If you are in that 23% of cell phone owners that have not upgraded to a smartphone, maybe it is time to make the switch. There are many smartphone repair places that can help you maintain your new phone if it gets a cracked screen or just needs a new battery. Once you realize the benefits, you will enjoy the amazing features and convenience that a smartphone can provide.

Posted on behalf of Cellairis

Nothing can slow down production and distribution centers quicker than a conveyor belt breakdown. Your lines can come to a literal standstill when your conveyor tracking is not right or a belt becomes frayed or worn out. Here are some tips to keep your conveyor belt running smoothly to get the most productivity.

Regular Inspections

Your equipment needs to be regularly inspected to catch issues before they lead to a shutdown of your conveyor belt. Some areas to check daily and throughout the week include:

• Belt wear
• Wear on the idler
• Material buildup
• Pulley alignment
• Belt tracking

Cleaning

Keeping your belt, motor and other equipment clean can go a long way in helping to keep your conveyor running. Dirt, debris and product residue can put excess wear on your equipment

Lubrication

Your bearings, rollers and other friction parts need lubrication to prevent wear. Make sure to clean any excess grease or oil from the belt. It is also imperative to use the right grease for the equipment. Check with your manufacturer recommendations.

The Right Belt

The most important part of keeping your conveyor belt running smoothly is getting the right belt for the job. The wrong size, type or fit can cause premature wear and lead to breaks and downtime. Talk to your conveyor belt supplier about getting the right belt for your equipment and use to avoid shutdowns.

Maintenance and conveyor belt servicing is key to preventing downtime on your production floor due to a conveyor shutdown. Keeping up with cleaning, inspections and lubrication can make your belts last longer, reduce energy costs and keeping your line moving for maximum productivity.

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

When you decide it is time to invest in a golf cart for recreation, business or personal transportation, you have many options to choose from, including size, model, power source and much more. When you decide between electric and gas, or the seating capacity, you also need to find a golf cart that is reliable and in your budget. You can buy used, which has risks, while buying new can cost more than you want to spend. However, purchasing a refurbished golf cart may be the right option. Here are some of the benefits:

• Reliability. A refurbished golf cart has had the engine and other systems maintained and updated. While it is used, you are assured that the tires, brakes, battery and engine are in good condition.
• Warranty. Many refurbished golf carts from dealers come with a limited warranty, giving you peace of mind that you are investing in a quality vehicle. Ask about what the warranty covers and whether it is based on mileage, time and if there are any specifications.
• Best value. You can get a top-quality golf cart for a fraction of the price of what it would cost new. Instead of buying a new cart, but with less quality and features, you can buy a higher-end model that is refurbished for less money. You can get more bells and whistles, while still staying within your budget.

There are many options available when you want to purchase a golf cart. Talk to your local golf dealer and ask about the refurbished golf cart options that are available. You may find the perfect fit for your needs at a price you can afford.

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

One of the most important elements to your elevated outdoor deck or front entryway is the staircase. Too often stairs are an afterthought when they can be a beautiful part of the design.  Here are some common options to consider when adding exterior stairs to your home.

Style

The style of your front entry should fit with the style of your home overall.  Whether you have a rustic farm house, a cool craftsman, or a sleek modern home, your stairs are the first introduction to what guests are going to experience when they walk through the door.  Consistency is important.

Materials

Wood is the most common type of staircase added to homes, but they do need maintenance as they are affected by the weather. Brick adds color to traditional home faces and they are easy to maintain and withstand the elements. Stone steps are a classical touch that give a natural feel to your entryway. Metal and aluminum staircases add modern elements to a space.  Also, the choice of railings and balustrade materials can be mixed in staircases to reflect a combination of styles. They may modernize or soften a space to give a more unique look.

The most important part of a staircase is the safety it provides for its user and the flow in and out of the home.  The width and height of the stairs should be considered for the average user.

If you need assistance in choosing the right type of stairs for your next project, consider going to a professional stair company where they can assist you in designing the best staircase for your space.

Posted on behalf of:
Southern Staircase/Artistic Stairs
6025 Shiloh Rd, Ste E
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(888) 510-0342

Concrete steps are a common fixture on many homes due to their durability and affordability. However, even concrete does not last forever, especially when put under undue stress from shifts in the soil beneath them. Most likely you are aware if your concrete stairs need repair, but there are also reasons why certain issues occur. Here are three common signs that you need your concrete stairs repaired.

1. Separation. Concrete stairs, especially those for a porch or entrance, are a separate piece and can become separated from their destination. When there are gaps between the home and the stairs, it may be due to settling and other problems, either with the house or the stairs themselves. Concrete raising or lifting can resolve sinking stairs, offering better support.
2. Tilting. Settling is the most common cause of tilting stairs, with the base on one side sinking deeper than the other. Concrete lifting can solve this issue, giving you stairs that are level and safe again for your family and guests.
3. Crumbling and cracking. Concrete does disintegrate, and cracks are common as it ages. When your steps are cracking and crumbling, they need repair and possibly replacement. Cracks can be filled, but you also want to address the stress that is causing the damage.

Concrete stairs with issues can be a stand-alone issue, or it may be signs of bigger problems that are occurring with your home. It is best to have a masonry expert that can inspect both the stairs and your foundation to ensure that repairing your concrete stairs is not the only issue. If settling is occurring, it may be affecting your home as well, which is a much bigger concern than your stairs.

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