Author Archive: Ralph Slaske

ceiling fans

Ceiling Fans: Your Secret Weapon for Staying Cool

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How Ceiling Fans Keep You Cool

You know how on those really hot summer days, you just can’t seem to get cool enough? No matter how low you set the AC or how many ice packs you put on yourself, you’re still sweating through your clothes. Well, it’s time to let your ceiling fan in on the secret – it can be your new best friend when it comes to beating the heat. Don’t underestimate the power of a simple ceiling fan to keep you feeling refreshed. With just the flip of a switch, it can get the air moving and make it feel like the temperature dropped a few degrees. In this article, we’ll talk about why ceiling fans are the MVP for staying cool and comfortable in your home when the temps start to climb. We’ll go over the science behind how they work as well as tips for choosing and using ceiling fans so you can make the most of yours. Turn your ceiling fan into your secret weapon this summer!

ceiling fans

Types of Ceiling Fans to Consider

Ceiling fans work by creating a wind chill effect. As the blades spin, they circulate the air in the room, which helps accelerate your body’s natural cooling process of perspiration. Moving air feels cooler than stagnant air because it carries the moisture away from your skin, allowing new perspiration to form. This small breeze is often all you need to feel more comfortable in warm weather.

Ceiling fans reduce costs

Running a ceiling fan uses only a fraction of the energy that air conditioning does.  By using fans, you can raise your thermostat by up to 4 degrees without noticing a difference in comfort. For every degree you raise the temperature, you can save up to 6% on your utility bill.

Different blade speeds for different needs

Ceiling fans typically have multiple speed settings so you can adjust the airflow to your needs.  On lower speeds, a fan can gently circulate the air and keep you comfortable without a chilling effect. Medium speeds are great for slightly warmer days or when you have a larger group of people in the room. Higher speeds create the maximum wind chill for the hottest summer days.

With the ability to keep you feeling cooler while lowering your energy costs, ceiling fans are a win-win.  They provide an easy, affordable way to stay comfortable in your home without relying entirely on artificial cooling methods. By harnessing the power of moving air, ceiling fans help you keep your cool when temperatures rise.

Tips for Choosing and Installing the Best Ceiling Fan

Bladeless Fans

If you want an ultra-modern look minus the spinning blades, bladeless fans are for you. Using air multiplier technology, they pull in air and amplify it up to 15 times, circulating the breeze efficiently. However, they typically cost more and may not be as powerful as bladed models.

Standard Ceiling Fans

Your basic but dependable option with 3 to 5 blades. Standard fans work well for most rooms and budgets. Choose between reversible or non-reversible blades, the latter being slightly more energy efficient. The more blades, the higher the price tag but also the more air it can circulate.

Low Profile Ceiling Fans

For lower ceilings or if you simply prefer a more streamlined look, low profile fans are an ideal choice. Their blades are closer to the ceiling, ranging from just 6 to 10 inches. They still provide good airflow but at a lower velocity, reducing noise and drafts. The smaller blade span, however, means they cover a smaller area.

Dual Motor Ceiling Fans

Want the best of both worlds? Dual motor fans have, you guessed it, two motors – one for warm weather and one for cool weather. The warm weather motor spins counterclockwise to produce downdrafts, while the cool weather motor spins clockwise for updrafts. This versatility comes at a higher cost but can replace the need for a furnace or air conditioner.

Whichever type you choose, a quality ceiling fan can make a world of difference in your comfort and energy efficiency. Compare styles and features to find one perfectly suited to your needs and space. Your new fan may just become your favorite home appliance!

Adding Some Spice to Your Portfolio With Alternative Investments

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What Are Alternative Investments?

 

You know what they say, don’t put all your eggs in one basket. While stocks and bonds might make up the bulk of your portfolio, adding in some alternative investments can spice things up. We’re talking real estate, private equity, hedge funds, commodities – the works. These babies march to the beat of their own drum, which means they don’t move in lockstep with the stock market. That makes them handy diversifiers. But tread carefully, some of these alternatives come with higher fees, lower liquidity, and higher risk. We’ll walk you through the pros and cons of the best alternative investment strategies so you can decide if it’s time to add a little flavor to your portfolio.

Top 5 Alternative Investments to Consider

 

Alternative investments – sometimes called “alt investing” – refers to assets outside the traditional categories of stocks, bonds and cash. They can add diversification and juice up returns in your portfolio.

 

Some common alternatives worth considering:

 

– Real estate – Investing in rental properties, REITs or real estate funds can provide income and appreciation while acting as an inflation hedge.

 

– Commodities – Gold, silver, oil and other commodities can help offset stock market volatility. Access them via ETFs or commodity funds.

 

– Private equity – Investing in private companies can offer high growth potential before they go public. But it requires high minimums and comes with higher risk.

 

– Hedge funds – These pool money to trade assets actively with strategies like shorting, leverage and derivatives. Performance may be volatile.

 

– Cryptocurrencies – Digital assets like Bitcoin provide an uncorrelated asset class but are highly speculative in nature. Invest carefully.

 

The key is allocating only what you can afford to lose – say 5-10% of your portfolio – to these non-traditional assets. With the right balance, alternatives can provide outsized returns while decreasing overall risk.

 

How to Allocate Alternative Investments in Your Portfolio

 

Looking to add some spice to your portfolio beyond just stocks and bonds? Alternative investments can provide diversification, hedge against inflation, and boost returns – when done right. Here are 5 to consider:

 

– **Real estate** – Residential or commercial real estate can provide ongoing income and appreciation over time. You can invest directly or through REITs. Just know it comes with hands-on management.

 

– **Hedge funds** – These aim to generate returns in any market by using sophisticated strategies. Can provide diversification but require high minimums and charge hefty fees.

 

– **Private equity** – Investing in private companies can mean high growth potential. But it requires major capital and comes with higher risk as private companies lack transparency.

 

– **Commodities** – Gold, oil, corn – investing in physical commodities can hedge against inflation. Understand cyclical pricing and storage costs. ETFs provide exposure without direct ownership.

 

– **Collectibles** – Art, wine, coins, antiques – fun but requires expertise. Focus on quality pieces with authenticated provenance for higher returns on investment.

 

The key is balancing risks and costs with your goals. Speak to a financial advisor to see if any alternative investments may be a fit for you. A little can go a long way in diversifying your portfolio!

The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Plantation Shutters in Chandler

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As a homeowner in Chandler, Arizona, you know how important the right window treatments are. Not only do they need to block the intense desert sun and keep your home comfortable, but they also have a huge impact on your home’s curb appeal and style. Plantation shutters in Chandler have long been a favorite choice for their functionality and timeless good looks. However, with so many companies now offering plantation shutters, how do you find the best ones for your home? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to find high-quality, custom plantation shutters that are perfectly suited to your home.

What Are Plantation Shutters and Why Choose Them?

Plantation shutters are interior window treatments with horizontal slats that can be tilted and adjusted to control light and privacy. They originate from functional shutters used in the West Indies and Southern United States to shade buildings. Today, they are popular decorative accents that also help insulate windows.

There are several benefits to choosing plantation shutters:

  1. Appearance. Plantation shutters enhance a home’s curb appeal with an attractive exterior and a clean, custom interior look that fits any decor.
  2. Light control. Slats can be tilted to let in natural light while maintaining privacy. This allows you to keep windows open for fresh air flow or close them for full blackout conditions.
  3. Energy efficiency. Shutters form an effective insulated barrier, helping reduce heat transfer through windows. This can lower energy costs year-round.
  4. Durability. High-quality wood or composite shutters are long-lasting and stand up well to regular use. They are easy to clean and require minimal maintenance.
  5. Customization. Shutters are made to order for your exact window sizes and specifications. You can choose from a variety of materials, colors, and slat sizes to complement your home’s architecture and interior design.

In summary, plantation shutters are a worthy investment that provides aesthetic, functional and economic benefits for homes. They are well worth considering if you want an elegant window treatment solution.

How to Find Custom Plantation Shutters

To find the best custom plantation shutters in Chandler, do your research to find a reputable company. Look for the following:

Experience and expertise

Seek out companies with at least 10 years of experience installing premium plantation shutters. They will have the expertise to properly measure, design, and install shutters tailored to your space and needs.

High-quality products

Look for companies that offer durable, attractive shutters made of quality materials like basswood, mahogany or composite woods. Higher-end shutters will last longer and provide better functionality.

Customization options

Choose a company that provides a range of customizable shutter types, sizes, colors, and features. Options like moveable louvers, cutouts, and stains allow you to match your home’s style.

Skilled craftsmanship

Well-made shutters require skilled woodworkers and proper construction. See if companies handcraft shutters and double-check references to ensure high-quality workmanship.

Warranties and certifications

Select companies that stand by their products by offering multi-year warranties. Look for certifications from organizations like the Window Covering Manufacturers Association which ensure proper licensing and professional standards.

Free consultations and estimates

Look for businesses that provide free in-home consultations and written estimates, allowing you to get advice from experts and compare multiple bids while finding the right solution for your needs and budget.

Following these guidelines will help you find custom plantation shutter specialists in Chandler dedicated to premium products, skilled service, and customer satisfaction. With the right company, you’ll gain stylish and functional shutters built to last.

The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Plantation Shutters in Chandler

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As a homeowner in Chandler, Arizona, you know how important the right window treatments are. Not only do they need to block the intense desert sun and keep your home comfortable, but they also have a huge impact on your home’s curb appeal and style. Plantation shutters in Chandler have long been a favorite choice for their functionality and timeless good looks. However, with so many companies now offering plantation shutters, how do you find the best ones for your home? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to find high-quality, custom plantation shutters that are perfectly suited to your home.

What Are Plantation Shutters and Why Choose Them?

Plantation shutters are interior window treatments with horizontal slats that can be tilted and adjusted to control light and privacy. They originate from functional shutters used in the West Indies and Southern United States to shade buildings. Today, they are popular decorative accents that also help insulate windows.

There are several benefits to choosing plantation shutters:

  1. Appearance. Plantation shutters enhance a home’s curb appeal with an attractive exterior and a clean, custom interior look that fits any decor.
  2. Light control. Slats can be tilted to let in natural light while maintaining privacy. This allows you to keep windows open for fresh air flow or close them for full blackout conditions.
  3. Energy efficiency. Shutters form an effective insulated barrier, helping reduce heat transfer through windows. This can lower energy costs year-round.
  4. Durability. High-quality wood or composite shutters are long-lasting and stand up well to regular use. They are easy to clean and require minimal maintenance.
  5. Customization. Shutters are made to order for your exact window sizes and specifications. You can choose from a variety of materials, colors, and slat sizes to complement your home’s architecture and interior design.

In summary, plantation shutters are a worthy investment that provides aesthetic, functional and economic benefits for homes. They are well worth considering if you want an elegant window treatment solution.

How to Find Custom Plantation Shutters

To find the best custom plantation shutters in Chandler, do your research to find a reputable company. Look for the following:

Experience and expertise

Seek out companies with at least 10 years of experience installing premium plantation shutters. They will have the expertise to properly measure, design, and install shutters tailored to your space and needs.

High-quality products

Look for companies that offer durable, attractive shutters made of quality materials like basswood, mahogany or composite woods. Higher-end shutters will last longer and provide better functionality.

Customization options

Choose a company that provides a range of customizable shutter types, sizes, colors, and features. Options like moveable louvers, cutouts, and stains allow you to match your home’s style.

Skilled craftsmanship

Well-made shutters require skilled woodworkers and proper construction. See if companies handcraft shutters and double-check references to ensure high-quality workmanship.

Warranties and certifications

Select companies that stand by their products by offering multi-year warranties. Look for certifications from organizations like the Window Covering Manufacturers Association which ensure proper licensing and professional standards.

Free consultations and estimates

Look for businesses that provide free in-home consultations and written estimates, allowing you to get advice from experts and compare multiple bids while finding the right solution for your needs and budget.

Following these guidelines will help you find custom plantation shutter specialists in Chandler dedicated to premium products, skilled service, and customer satisfaction. With the right company, you’ll gain stylish and functional shutters built to last.

 

What to Expect During a Shower Remodel

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There’s nothing like a hot shower upon waking or just before you go to bed at night. It’s a luxury we take for granted and that we take seriously. So, for our showers we will spend a mint making our bathroom remodel Houston as comfortable as possible. If you’re planning on having a bathroom remodel Houston or shower remodel, then you may want to know what to expect and what the process is like and that’s what we will cover right here.

What to expect from a shower remodel project

Whether you are doing a shower project, the new bath, walk in bathtubs Houston or shower remodel Houston the one big benefit of doing it is having your home value increase by 20%. Now, the price and what to expect will vary depending on what you’re having done. The more complicated the project, the more time, supplies, manpower and expense it will take.

Variations of shower remodeling projects and walk in bathtubs Houston

If you’re here because you don’t have a clue what you want to do we have listed the most common shower remodeling projects.

Walk-in showers: These are a shower stall mostly without a tub. However, you could get a walk-in tub with a shower head attachment. There’are lots of customization options. It depends why you would need a walk-in shower.

Tub to Shower: this is remodeling the whole piece. The tub and the shower both.

The important thing to think about first, before you choose a style is to understand why you want a shower remodeled. Would it be better to do the whole piece and get a new bath or a walk in bathtub Houston?

  • Are you doing the project because you’re reselling your home?
  • Are you making the shower larger?
  • Is this just a replacement job?
  • Will you be using shelving and other storage material?
  • Will you be integrating tech like a TV module?
  • What types of doors will it have?

Once you’ve figured this out, you can now work on the how to do it:

Yes, there are more questions to ask yourself before you begin.

Are you going to DIY the job?


Too insecure with that so you’ll hire a contractor for the job?
Next, figure out what types of materials are going into the job. For example, ceramic tile? What about the taps and shower head do you want? Is it all one piece like a mold or is it just tile and taps?

Now the work begins:

The first thing you’ll do is interview contractors. Once you’ve chosen the best one for you, you’ll need a written estimate of everything including how they deal with mistakes. You don’t want to open a surprise bill at the end. Don’t pay anything up front, just pay the milestones with a deposit for the supplies to start each one.

Next, the contractors will arrive to perform the demolition. Before they arrive make certain they have told you very clearly what they clear out and protect or what you are expected to. You don’t want to ruin floors, walls and furniture and then be told it’s not their issue. Watch the fine print for that kind of thing and don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Also, if you are doing a very big overhaul, make sure you get a dumpster and know who covers the rental etc. Also, where you are allowed to put it. Be clear on how many days you’ll need it and who is responsible for hauling it away.

Depending on what you are having done, you will have quite a mess as they remove cabinets and sinks. The tile is also going to make a mess coming off. If you have small pets, make sure they aren’t around. If the bathroom is in your bedroom ask if you should sleep in another room. Injuries can happen during a bathroom remodeling project. Animal or small child could run into trouble in seconds and you could cut yourself or worse walking around in the night.

Next, typically anywhere from 2 days to a week depending on bath size and complexities they’ll finish installing the new fixtures. Be aware that anything can happen in between. Make sure you maintain clear and frequent communication with the foreman. Always know who the supervisor is in case you have to stop work for any reason to consult them. Speak to them before, during and in-between each milestone.

These projects don’t have to be hard, in fact, they can be fun. Just follow the common sense advice here and you should be good to go

Do I Need a Lawyer For a Construction Contract?

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Whether you are a homeowner, a contractor, subcontractor, material supplier, engineer, developer, bank, insurance company or a business owner, it is important to consider if you need to consult with a lawyer when you enter into a construction contract.

In order to learn more about the role of lawyers in construction contracts, we spoke to Douglas Healy. Healy’s firm, Healy Law Offices represents clients in the industrial and commercial realms and has offices in both Missouri and Arkansas. He has served in the past as a Greene County Prosecutor. He presently works as the general counsel to the Missouri Joint Municipal Electric Utility Commission. Healy is a graduate of the University of Arkansas Law School.

According to Healy, not only do people who are engaged in any form of construction need to consult with lawyers during the construction process, the help of a lawyers will often be needed in every phase of construction.

Purchasing Land

U.S. News and World Report states that lawyers often provide assistance in helping people buy land for their project. The lawyer will prepare the documents that relate to the rights of the funding source as well as the rights of the purchaser.

Taking Bids

Construction lawyers may help in the negotiation process between the principles when they are deciding upon the best method of completing the project. They may draft the request for bids on the project and negotiate the bidding process. If there is a dispute about the bidding process, construction lawyers can protect their client.

The Construction Contract

The lawyer will draw up a contract that will create an agreement between the landowner, the contractor and their subcontractors. This process will likely be negotiated. The construction lawyer draws up agreements about bonds and insurance. These documents ensure that the project will be completed and that people receive compensation if there is any property damage or if people end up being injured.

Project Phase

During ongoing construction, lawyers help ensure that each participant carries out their side of the contract. This may simply entail negotiation or demand letters, or it may entail the lawyer filing a lien or bond claim to ensure payments flow throughout the project.

If Disputes Arise

If there are disputes between the contractor and the property owner, lawyers will know the best form of resolving disputes, whether that is mediation, arbitration or dispute review panels. These disputes can be about the quality or timing of the work, where the responsibility lies in injuries or issues about damages that might arise as the project is being completed.

Healy cites examples of disputes and damages involving construction projects in the news recently. In one tragic accident, a floor of a Hard Rock Cafe in Louisiana fell, killing some construction workers, injuring others and causing damage and loss of income to nearby businesses, as the dangerous and precarious remains of the accident – including a large, dangling crane – kept the entire block around the structure closed for some time.

In another example reported by Business Insider that occurred long after the completion of construction, a building in the San Francisco Bay area, the Millennium Tower, has sunk 18 inches and tilted 14 inches in the past 11 years. In September of the previous year, the builder agreed to fix the building and compensate the condominium residents who proved that they have suffered financial losses because their residences are selling for far less than expected due to the perceived danger of the problem.

Both of these issues required skilled construction attorneys who were highly competent in the law and how it relates to all aspects of construction, the contract documents and the state statutes governing construction.

Helping Homeowners

According to HouseLogic, construction attorneys are key in helping homeowners who are dealing with fraudulent contractors not living up to their agreements. HouseLogic states that, although you could try to hold the contractor’s feet to the fire on the Better Business Bureau website and give them terrible reviews on Angieslist and Franklinreport.com, you could just end up being sued by the contractor’s lawyer for defamation.

Contract lawyers can help homeowners save money and time in fighting a contractor who has defrauded them or at least broken the contract terms. According to HouseLogic, construction lawyers help their homeowner clients through their extensive knowledge of state statutes. They can also find places in the contract where the language is weak. They may have to defend homeowners from counter lawsuits by contractors that claim their negative online review of the contractor’s work constituted defamation.

Douglas Healy states that all players in construction need to have competent and experienced legal representation. Your construction attorney needs to know the laws and how they apply to contracts, taxes, banking, environmental law, criminal law, international law, real property law, tort law, bond and lien law, insurance law and administrative law. You need a specialist in order to defend yourself and keep the construction process moving smoothly

Colony Associates Shares Smart Ways to Get Your Construction Company Out of Debt

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According to U.S.A. Today, on average, small business owners in this country are $195,000 in debt. Not all business debt is bad because businesses need loans in order to get supplies, sign leases and hire employees. Debt helps get many startups off the ground. The problem occurs when debt piles up and inhibits cash flow.

Colony Associates, a company that has solutions for small business owners and consumers who are heavily in debt provides the following advice for construction company owners who are trying to pay off debt.

Scrutinize Your Budget

Sadly, according to Small Business Trends, 61 percent of all small businesses do not have a documented budget to follow. Writing down your budget and carefully scrutinizing expenses will help you decide where you can trim costs, saving some money. If debt is harming your cash flow, you will need to utilize the money saved to bring down your debt.

Entrepreneur Magazine suggested potential ways of freeing up cash include leasing a smaller office space and selling newer equipment and buying used. Employees that can work remotely will likely prefer to do so, reducing the need for office space.

Provide Incentives for Prompt Payment

In a slowing economy, businesses can get their clients to pay more promptly when they offer incentives to do so, like a small discount.

Boost Sales

Another means of getting more cash on hand to pay down the debt is to more effectively utilize social media for advertising, which cuts other advertising expenses. Many companies today are reaping the benefits of timely and helpful responses to all social media posts about your company as well as by utilizing influencers to help better interact with your customer base.

Decide Upon a Debt Payment Schedule

Nerdwallet suggests that small business owners evaluate which debts to prioritize. For example, debts with higher interest rates need to be paid off first. Servicing those interest payments is very expensive.

Lower Debt Interest Rates

Many business owners have business credit cards. They are a convenience and helped many businesses stay afloat when credit dried up during the last recession. The problem is that the interest rates on business credit cards have risen in the past decade. Currently, many business credit cards carry interest rates from 15 to 20 percent. At such high rates, it inhibits business cash flow, and it becomes incredibly difficult to ever pay off the debt.

Popular means of reducing interest rates on debt include:

Zero-Interest, Balance Transfer Credit Cards: If your business credit is good, you can apply for a zero-interest, balance transfer credit card. They defer any interest payments on the balance for 12 to 18 months. They are a good option if you can pay off the balance in the interest-free period. You do need to be aware of the fact that they will revert to current interest rates after that period of time.

Signature Loan: Companies like Colony Associates provide signature loans for small businesses that provide one monthly debt payment at a lower interest rate. The longer term for the loan improves the cash flow of your business while also providing a debt payoff date.

If your construction firm is struggling under heavy debt, call Colony Associates. We provide solutions that improve business cash flow, while lowering interest rates

Jason-McLaughlan

Wood vs. Metal Fence, Pros and Cons Of The Different Fencing Materials

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Jason-McLaughlan

Wood and metal are popular construction materials. According to home improvement site Bobvila, wood is generally preferred for outdoor structures like pergolas, gazebos, decks and fences. Besides wood, property owners can choose from a wide range of classical and contemporary metal fencing materials, i.e. aluminum, steel, wrought iron and cast iron.

These metals are more durable and DIY friendly, especially when packaged and installed as panels. The use of wrought iron in fencing dates back many centuries due to its strength and durable nature. When comparing different fencing materials, we usually narrow down the search to key aspects like durability, cost, style and pros and cons. According to the Landscaping Network, here are the pros and cons of choosing wood and metal fencing:

Wood fencing

Pros

• Oozes natural appearance

• Generally inexpensive

• Works perfectly for privacy if fitted tightly together

• Can be augmented with stain or paint finish

• Versatile when it comes to style and design

Cons

• The material is susceptible to rotting, warping and may be damaged by pests

• High maintenance

• Cost of lumbering can be prohibitive

Metal fencing (aluminum and wrought iron)

Pros

• Strong and durable

• Visually diverse and appealing

• Better option for high level security

• Aluminum material fits well with modern architecture

• Wrought Iron is little inexpensive compared to the traditional iron

Cons

• Expensive to install

• Aluminum does not rust, but is less durable compared to wrought iron

• Wrought iron rusts easily

Comparing different fencing materials

Compared to metal, wood is relatively inexpensive to buy and install since it is a cheap raw material. The material can easily be cut, shaped and hammered. The decisive visual appeal provided by a wooden fence can complement any landscape or building architecture. However, metal guarantees better security than wood. Without proper care, wood can easily be weakened by the elements and snap out, giving intruder’s access to your property.

The other popular fencing materials include vinyl and chain link fence. The chain link fence is inexpensive, easy to install and works well in a garden setting. However, due to lack of privacy, this type of fence may come off as utilitarian and unattractive. The vinyl fence is easy to clean and maintain. The material is also weather resistant and insect proof. The downside of choosing vinyl fence is the limited color selected and the non-natural look.

Fence installation and maintenance

Before installing a fence on your property, check the demarcations to ensure you are doing the right thing. If there are any issues bordering on easements and underground utilities, seek clarifications and approval from the local authorities. As part of maintenance, a wooden fence should be protected using a stain or paint. Warped or damaged planks must be removed and replaced promptly. If you have a fence made from wrought iron or certain types of rust prone steel, take time to apply rust inhibiting paint to eliminate the effects of corrosion.

The President of Western Fence, Jason McLaughlan has been in the fencing industry for over 20 years. His Utah based firm offers a wide range of durable fencing materials, including wood, metal, chain link and vinyl fencing. The popular metal fencing options offered include aluminum, wrought iron and steel. Jason McLaughlan and his experienced team also provide fence installation and maintenance services to homeowners interested in fencing their property. Jason’s education and skills are grounded in construction management and remodeling.

Well-maintained waterfront property

How to Protect an Investment in a Lakefront Property

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The basics of constructing and maintaining waterfront property.

When an individual decides to invest in something, they always look forward to getting the most out of it. Waterfront property is one of the investment decisions that requires one to input more due diligence than any other investment in real estate properties. For one, it is good to work with experts who understand the seriousness of the investment and secondly purchase the right materials and accessories, because any mistake can lead to very costly losses. The good thing about being extra careful is that you will have the opportunity for high a ROI by investing in waterfront property. With that said, here is a guideline on how to protect your investment in lakefront property.

1. Inspect the Bulkheads

Your lakefront property is built near water sources and therefore will need a strong bulkhead, which is a wall that separates your property from the water. In this case, ensure that you work with an expert who will not only identify where the bulkhead should be positioned but also inspect the bulkhead itself. As the investor, you carry the responsibility to build and repair any damage on the bulkhead and this expert will also help in estimating the cost related to either building or repairing the bulkhead. The bulkhead needs to be strong and durable to keep your property safe for a long time, and this means that you have to rely on quality and reliable dock supplies.

2. Have Reliable Financing Options

Buying or building a waterfront property is quite expensive compared to a similar property built on a landlocked area. In this case, you need to be prepared financially before starting your project. You could either be relying on your own savings or a loan and if your option is borrowing from a financial institution, you need to apply for it early. Most banks will delay the provision of loans purposed to finance a waterfront property because they tend to categorize it under specialty loans. If you do not plan in advance, you will end up jeopardizing your entire investment plan.

3. Make Sure That the House You Are Buying Can Withstand the Waterfront

How strong your waterfront house is will depend on the materials that were used to build it. A waterfront property will require high-quality materials to withstand the harsh conditions brought by the presence of water. For instance, salty water leaves behind salt when the water evaporates, and this leads to massive oxidation and rust. In this case, all your dock supplies and other metals around your house needs to be stainless steel. Decking is very important when you are building a waterfront property, but it will only serve you well and safely if it’s strong enough to withstand natural mishaps such as a storm.

4. Insure Your Waterfront Property from Flood

The fact that you are investing in a house that is near the water is a source of exposure to calamities such as floods. To avoid being caught unaware, invest in flood insurance. After all, every property needs to be insured, and in this case you will be insured from a specific cause of damage; flood. Since flood insurance can be quite expensive, you will need to work with an insurance expert who will advise you on the right policy and most reliable insurance company. Also, liaise with a real estate agent in the area for a better understanding of the changes that may occur in different seasons. He should know the seriousness of a problem that may occur and therefore advise accordingly especially on the possibility of sea level rising and probable increment in insurance premiums.

5. Know the Laws about Developing Your Property

It is possible to use a waterfront property in different ways including recreational activities. However, this will only be possible if the authorities in the area allow you to make changes and improvements in the property. Also, if you consider constructing a dock, you will need to know where to get quality dock supplies so that your dock will be strong, safe and durable. Having a dock in your waterfront property improves the value of your property, and it is a cost-effective way that will make your house stand out. Check also if the city authorities in the region allow you to cut some trees to improve the views around your property. This way, you will know whether you will be allowed to enjoy the benefits that come with your investment in waterfront property.

6. Speak to People Living Around

The opinion of the people who have been living near the lake or those who have owned waterfront properties for a long time can help you make some decisions about your investment. Such people understand the issues and benefits that come with living in a waterfront property. Also, the home that you aspire to buy may have been sold because it has a particular issue that the seller is not revealing. Consider talking to your potential neighbors, and they might reveal such information. While the seller can be forced to reverse your transaction, you will be saved from the burden of going through all that trouble. Make sure you are fully satisfied with the home you are interested in buying before committing your money to it.

Hunter-Law-Group

How To Stay Safe On The Job To Avoid Accidents

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Staying safe on the job is key to ensuring your livelihood, especially if you have people depending on you, such as your spouse and children. Even the slightest workplace injuries can cause thousands of dollars in lost wages. Aside from costs, however, the experience of just being out of the job and the paperwork associated with the incident can be a taxing process that you can do without. Fortunately, it’s not difficult to avoid accidents. Armed with some workplace safety tips and deliberate efforts to practice them consistently, you can avoid misfortune in the workplace:

Acknowledge Presence of Risk

Different jobs have different levels of risk. Know what you’re in for when you apply for work. Certain labels including “safety-sensitive position” are used by employers today to warn interested applicants of the inherent risk that come with the job position. Knowing just how dangerous your job is will make you respect it and encourage you to follow the standard protocol set forth by the company rather than do shortcuts.

Take Regular Breaks

While working four hours straight without leaving your area might sound like a productive habit that everyone should aim for, it puts you at risk for burnout or physical injuries. Stay fresh and alert by taking regular breaks. Go for a five-minute stroll at a nearby park, buy something from the vending machine, eat a snack, etc. Whatever it is you decide on doing, be sure that the activity relaxes you. Allowing your mind and body to rest can, in the long run, result in better output.

Practice Proper Body Posture

Twisting and stooping can lead to body pains and, over time, cause serious musculoskeletal injuries. Request for ergonomically designed furniture, especially if your work involves sitting for the majority of the day. Use a standing desk so you can switch between sitting and standing to avoid blood clots from forming. When performing labor work, exercise proper posture when lifting heavy objects. Squat to pick up heavy objects and lift with your legs and not with your back.

Get Enough Sleep

Getting enough rest is essential for your mind and body to perform at optimal levels. If you lack sleep, you will lack the focus needed to pay attention at work. You will be prone to making mistakes that can jeopardize not only your health and safety but also the health and safety of your coworkers. As a general rule of thumb, get at least six hours of sleep to allow your body to recover.

Use Mechanical Equipment Whenever Possible

Sure, it sounds like a great workout to lift heavy boxes and run from point A to point B to move supplies. Yet, all you’re really doing is exhausting your body faster. Instead, use equipment and machinery whenever applicable. Rather than lift heavy boxes, use a forklift or pallet jack. Rather than work hard, work smart.

Know Where Everything Is

It’s a good investment of your time and effort to know where everything is located. You should know where the emergency exits are in the event of a fire or where the first aid kit is in the event of an accident. Knowing where supplies and tools are stocked is also a great way to move smoothly and, in the process, avoid accidents. In addition, know who to contact when an accident has occurred. Aside from your supervisor and employer, contact a personal injury attorney Tampa right away.

Staying safe on the job is not only the responsibility of your employer but also of the employees. Be a responsible employee by following these tips.