April 2013 Archives - Talk Local Blog

Archive for April, 2013

Chair Reupholstery Steps

Tuesday, April 30th, 2013

Everyone is on a budget these days. Few people have hundreds of dollars to blow on brand new home décor, but that doesn’t mean you can’t renovate and get the look you want. You have to start thinking about turning trash into treasure. When you take the chairs you have and follow a few simple chair reupholstery steps, you can end up with a gorgeous new look that makes your creative sense — and your checkbook — happy.

What you’ll need:

– Fabric you love. Use a measuring tape on your chair to figure out how much you’ll need, and make sure you get at least a yard extra – just in case.

– Flathead screwdriver

– Hammer

Chair Reupholstery Steps To Follow:

1. Remove the fabric that covers the bottom of the chair.

2. Remove the exterior frame. Use the hammer to tap the flathead screwdriver under the frame and remove it gently.

3. Remove all of the current fabric on the chair by starting at the bottom. Since chairs are originally made top-to-bottom, it’s much easier to undo that work bottom-to-top style. You’ll have to do this one panel at a time, and it can be time consuming. Use whatever method is easiest for you. Oftentimes, this fabric is stapled on with an industrial stapler. You could use your flathead screwdriver, pliers, or any other method you prefer to pull out the staples.

4. Label the fabric as you go so you know which part of the chair it was from.

5. When you get to the ply-grip, be careful: it’s sharp. Use a butter knife to open the ply-grip to help you remove the fabric here.

6. Lay the old fabric aside, making sure it’s flat and unfolded.

7. Cut the new pattern. Use the old fabric as a guide so you are sure you don’t have a huge size difference here.

8. Sew where necessary.

9. Attach the new pattern to the chair top-to-bottom — the opposite of the way you removed it.

10. Attach the wood frame. You can stain this if you’d like.

Too Much Hassle?

Now you have a new chair and a new look for your home. For more help in recycling items and renovating for less, TalkLocal can connect you with the local professionals you need, in just minutes.

Posted in Furniture Upholstery | No Comments »

Sound Card Not Recognized

Tuesday, April 30th, 2013

Is your sound card not recognized by your computer? When the sound card is not recognized by the system, no sound comes from your computer. A few factors can cause the sound card to be unrecognized. Here are some solutions for an unrecognized sound card.

Causes of Unrecognized Sound Card

1. First, make sure the issue is the sound card and not the speakers. Turn the speakers on to test them. If they work on devices other than your malfunctioning computer, then the problem is the sound card. If the speakers do not work on any device, then simply replace your speakers.

2. The sound card might be incompatible with the operating system, causing it to not be recognized. Make sure your sound card matches with the system.

3. A virus could destroy the device driver, which causes your computer to not detect the sound card. Regular virus scans can prevent this issue from occurring.

4. Dust accumulation is one of the worst enemies of your computer, next to viruses. Dust entering the inside of your computer prevents the sound card from being recognized. Clean your computer regularly with a compressed air can to blow dust away.

5. Dislodgement can also cause the computer to not detect the sound card. If you move your computer around a lot or it gets bumped, the internal devices might shift. Keep your computer on a hard level surface at all times to avoid possible sound card dislodgement.

Solutions for Unrecognized Sound Card

1. USB sound cards are available if you do not wish to replace the internal sound card. Purchase a USB sound card and plug it into your computer. You can also get a PCI sound card instead of a USB one. Install any necessary devices or software if needed.

2. When the computer does not recognize the sound card, make sure all of the appropriate drivers that come with the sound card are installed. If the sound card drivers are not installed, the sound card will appear as an unidentified device. You can look for this under Device Manager. If you know the model of the sound card, download the drivers for it from its website.

Take a look at this article and this article for further assistance.

For Professional Help

If you are still having difficulties with your sound card, please contact TalkLocal to help connect you with knowledgeable IT technicians in your local area. We will find and connect you with up to three computer technicians who will be able to help you, when you need them most.

Posted in Computer Repair | No Comments »

How To Safely Kill A Tree

Tuesday, April 30th, 2013

There are many ways to kill or remove a a tree — but the important part is to do it safely, and if possible, quickly. Read this guide to learn how to safely kill a tree. We’ll give you the tips, as well as precautions to keep in mind when trying to kill a tree.

How To Safely Kill A Tree

Salting the Ground

In ancient times, salting the ground was used as a means of spite after a war, so that the enemy territories would not grow any crops or fruit. Although salting the ground around a tree is an efficient way to kill a tree, it is generally not recommended. Salting the ground around a tree will also prevent any other vegetation from growing in that area. So don’t salt the ground — salt only the tree.

1. You can do this by drilling holes into the tree’s trunk, in a slanted direction.

2. Then just pour salt inside the hole.

3. Pour some hot water inside of the hole in order to dissolve the salt and accelerate the tree’s absorption of it.

4. The more holes you drill, the faster the tree will die, but too many holes may compromise the stability of the tree as it dies, causing it to fall in a particular direction. The tree should die off in about one month, but this could vary depending on the extent of the treatment and the size of the tree.

5. Frequently check the state of the tree throughout the month to estimate how weak the tree is getting. If you find that it is weak enough, you should organize a clearing for the fall and cut the tree in that direction. This will ensure that the falling tree does not damage any of your property.

Suffocate the Tree

Alternatively, you could cover up the ground around the tree to kill the tree at the roots. Use a large vinyl sheet, or sheets, and lay them on the ground around the tree. The vinyl sheets will prevent the tree’s roots from receiving oxygen and sunlight, effectively suffocating the tree from the ground up. This will also kill the grass and any plants around the tree. This process takes longer than salting the ground, but it will kill the tree safely.

Additional Help

If you feel like you need professional help with killing or removing a tree, TalkLocal can help you by connecting you with up to three professional tree removal services in your area. We will have you on the phone with up to three professionals in just minutes, and it’s free!

Posted in Tree Removal | No Comments »

Dog Kennel Installation

Tuesday, April 30th, 2013

Dog owners that allow their four-legged friends to run free all the time are just asking for trouble. For their own safety, and to ensure they do not get into mischief, dogs must be trained to spend time in a kennel. If you do not already have a kennel, do not worry; the dog kennel installation process is relatively easy. With a little bit of time and money, you could construct a caged-in area for your dog both inside and outside.

Pre-Manufactured Kennels

Dog kennel installation is a cinch if you go to a local pet store and purchase one that is already made. These are generally kennels for the inside of your home, which you can use to put your dog inside while you are away.

Smaller kennels are usually already assembled on the store shelves, too. All you have to do is purchase it and bring it home. For larger kennels, significant assembly may be required. Don’t worry, though, these kennels come with a thorough set of instructions that will guide you through the dog kennel installation process from start to finish.

Outdoor Dog Kennel Installation

To give your dog a safe place to relax and enjoy the outdoors, a kennel is ideal. You can build a very simple kennel by purchasing some chain-link fencing from a local hardware store and constructing a fenced-in area. Just follow these steps:

1. Measure out what will be the perimeter of the dog kennel. Make sure the measurements are precise.

2. If you want the kennel to have a concrete floor, dig out the area, but not too deep. Level out the ground so you can pour and smooth out the concrete. It helps to line the area with boards to contain the concrete as it dries.

3. Next, you must dig appropriate holes for your poles at all four corners of the area. A posthole digger is the most appropriate tool to use for this task.

4. Drop the posts into each respective hole and fill the holes with concrete to secure them.

5. Finally, wrap the chain-link fencing around the posts. You should have ordered the right amount of fencing from the store based on your measurements before the project. It is best to attach a tension rod to one of the posts and start from there. Wrap the fencing around all posts and secure it.

6. Make sure you include gate hardware in your purchase. This will allow you to install a door in the kennel to allow for easy access in and out.

Too Much?

If you are not especially skilled at this, or similar tasks, simply log on to TalkLocal for help. We will put you in touch with professionals in your local area that can help you out with such projects.

Tags: dog, dog kennel, pets
Posted in Handyman | No Comments »

Install Carpet For Stairs

Monday, April 29th, 2013

While hardwood looks great, it can sometimes be a pain in the butt. Once instance in which this is true is with stairs. You should consider carpeting your stairs because it will make going up and down a lot easier. You will be able to take things up and down by sliding them if they are two heavy. It is also more comforting than wood if you happen to fall. You do not always have to hire someone to help you install carpets because you can install carpet for stairs yourself.

Install Carpet For Stairs

You need six things if you want to install carpet on your stairs: a staple gun, a box of half-inch staples, carpet tacks, tackless strips, and a hammer. All of these items will help to install the soft plush carpets on your hardwood stairs.

1. The first thing you need to do is mark the center of each stair. You can put a tackless strip on the center of each stair. It should be placed one inch from the vertical back of the next stair. Put another tackless strip on the front of each step as well.

2. Next, cut carpet padding for the top of each step. Attach them with staples, placed approximately six inches apart. Once the carpet pads are completely installed you should start installing the carpet.

3. Tack the end of the carpet to the bottom of the first step. Every four inches you should place another tack. Make sure that the carpet is pulled tight and tacked securely so that your carpet is securely attached to the stairs.

4. While you install the carpet with the tacks, press the carpet into the tackless strips. Do not press the carpet back into the corner of the stair treads because then the carpet will be to short. You should continue this process until all of the stairs are covered.

5. When you get to the last step, secure the carpet with staples four inches apart again.

Have A Professional Install Carpet For Stairs

While installing carpeting for you stairs is not a complicated process, it is time-consuming. If you would prefer to have a professional do this, just use TalkLocal. We will find the right carpet professionals in your area in just minutes, for free!

Posted in Carpet Cleaners | 1 Comment »

Should I Rent A Regular Or Stretch Limo?

Monday, April 29th, 2013

You are planning a formal occasion. You have plenty of questions to ask yourself. Did I get the right flowers? What kind of music should I play? Oh, and do not forget transportation — that’s key. But even there, you might ask: Should I rent a regular or stretch limo?

Limousines are a staple for formal occasions, most notably, weddings, proms, and banquets. Still, limos are used for more practical purposes, especially regular limousines. If you are wondering — Should I rent a regular or stretch limo? — here is a little information to help you out.

What Is The Difference Between A Stretch And Regular Limo

When most people hear the word “limo,” they automatically picture a stretch limousine. While these are very common, they are not the only kind of limo. In fact, limos can come in the form of a more traditional car, like a Lincoln Town Car. As long as the vehicle is piloted by a chauffeur and features a few more luxurious amenities than an ordinary vehicle, then it is considered a limo.

What’s The Occasion?

As you may have guessed, regular limos are used for more practical purposes, while the stretch variety, in all of their extravagance, are used for special occasions. Here are some examples of when you might use each.

Regular limo

– To get to the airport to board a flight

– As transportation in another city while on a business trip

– On a date with no other couples

Stretch limo

– Weddings

– Proms/high school dances

– Large gatherings

– To social events (clubs, concerts, sports games, etc.)

How Many People Are Riding?

This is an important question, as space in a regular limo is limited. If you are transporting a whole party of people, a stretch limo can sometimes seat dozens of passengers safely.

What Amenities Do You Want?

Much of the draw to stretch limos comes from the fact that they come equipped with a lot of fun features, including a wet bar, snacks, televisions, lights, stereos, and more. If you require some, or all, of these amenities, the stretch limo is the way to go. A regular limo’s amenities are very limited due to space constraints.

Rent A Limo Now!

You can always call a local limo rental company and ask: Should I rent a regular or stretch limo? They can make an accurate assessment for you. To contact one quickly, just use TalkLocal. We do all of the legwork for you. All you have to do is pick up the phone and talk to professionals who want to compete for your business.

Posted in Limo Rental | No Comments »

Pros And Cons Of Turf Fields

Monday, April 29th, 2013

When playing sports games or just trying to get some outdoor exercise, you might find that different fields offer different benefits. Grass fields and turf fields are very different. Check out the pros and cons of turf fields to help you decide what kind of field investment you may want to make.

Pros Of Turf Fields:

– Over time, turf is cheaper than grass, which could help with your personal budget. There is a large, one-time installation fee when you first get your turf field, but it’s much cheaper to maintain. Turf doesn’t die over the winter and it is typically safe from abuse by wild animals and birds, unlike grass. Grass also requires trimming, chalking, pesticides, etc. Although turf does require watering and aerating, the maintenance here is much cheaper than with grass.

– Turf is safer than grass. Grass fields develop knots and puddles in inclement weather, which makes tripping a big risk. Turf fields don’t have this problem, which makes running outside, or on a turf track, much safer.

– Turf can be used indoors or outdoors, whereas grass cannot thrive indoors.

Cons Of Turf Fields:

– Turf fields do soak up heat like a sponge soaks up water. In some cases, turf fields have grown to be more than 30 degrees above the actual temperature. This can cause risk of heat stroke and dehydration, which is important to consider.

– Choosing turf instead of grass does remove a naturally occurring plant from the environment. Although this is not drastically harmful to the environment, it should be noted.

– The light, airy structure of turf might affect the way an athlete plays differently than grass, which is what he or she is probably used to. When playing on turf, an athlete would also want to train on turf to insure he or she knows what to expect during the game.

No matter what you choose after analyzing the pros and cons of turf fields, you’ll need to budget if you plan to build a new field at all.

Find Someone To Install Turf For You

TalkLocal can help you with budgeting, deciding on, and constructing your field. We can also help you decide which gyms or fitness facilities may be best for you. We take the work out of the search for qualified professionals by connecting you with the right local help.

Posted in Gyms & Fitness | No Comments »

How To Use A Proxy Server

Monday, April 29th, 2013

A proxy server can be used to disguise your IP address. The proxy server essentially masks your actual IP address, making it harder to track. Keep in mind that in some states or countries, using a proxy server without permission from the owner may be illegal. We will give you some information about the different types of proxy servers, as well as how to use a proxy server on different web browsers.

Types of Proxy Servers

Transparent Proxy Server: A transparent proxy server will give you a different IP address than your own, but your original IP address will be available. Transparent proxy servers can be used to get around IP bans, but not for anonymity.

Anonymous Proxy Server: An anonymous proxy server will be identified as a proxy server, but your original IP address will not be available. You can use an anonymous proxy server to be anonymous, but not if you do not want it known that you are trying to be anonymous.

Distorting Proxy Server: A distorting proxy server will appear to be a transparent proxy server, but an IP address different from your own will be available.

High Anonymity Proxy Server: A high anonymity proxy server will not appear to be a proxy server and your original IP address will not be available. This type will allow you to use a proxy server without making your real IP address available for others.

How To Use A Proxy Server On Firefox

1. Go to the Tools Menu at the top of the page.

2. Click Options.

3. Click on the Advanced button.

4. Go to the Network tab.

5. Click Settings under Connection.

6. Select either “Auto-Detect Proxy setting for this network” or “Manual Proxy Configuration”.

7. If you select “Manual Proxy Configuration,” type in the IP address for the HTTP proxy server you are using

8. Type in the port of the HTTP proxy server.

9. Press Okay

How To Use A Proxy Server On Internet Explorer

1. Go to the Tools menu at the top of the page.

2. Click on Internet Options.

3. Go to the Connections tab.

4. Select LAN Settings.

5. Check the box that says “Use a proxy server for you LAN”.

6. Next to Address, enter the proxy server’s IP address.

7. Next to Port, enter 8080 (or another number if your proxy server specifies it).

8. Press Okay in LAN settings.

9. Press Okay in Internet Options.

How To Use A Proxy Server On Safari

1. Go to the Preferences menu at the top of the page.

2. Click on Advanced.

3. Click on Proxies: Change Settings.

4. Click the Web Proxy (HTTP) box in order to check it.

5. Type in the IP address of your proxy server.

6. Type in the port of your proxy server.

7. Press Apply Now.

Further Assistance

If you still need help using a proxy server, you can contact a computer technician to help you set up your proxy server. You can use TalkLocal to receive up to three calls from high-quality computer technicians who will be able to help you when you need them.

Posted in Computer Repair | 1 Comment »

TalkLocal Shouts Out Hialeah!

Monday, April 29th, 2013

TalkLocal shouts out Hialeah! We’ve finally arrived in Florida’s pretty prairie where we can’t wait to make the grass a little greener. We’re a free virtual concierge service and, while we do have landscaping as one of our service categories, we really specialize in weeding through hundreds of area professionals to find the right one for the job and time you had in mind. Just complete a simple online form providing your needs, location, and availability. Then, within minutes, you will hear from professionals in your area who want to do business on your terms.

“Urgency sometimes causes customers to desperately abandon all caution and risk dealing with a snake. We’ve checked customer ratings and put customers in contact with only the highest-rated local businesses available”, says Seva Man. That’s speed and security. The grass may not be any greener, but getting more value with less hassle for your hard-earned green is a definite improvement in The City of Progress.

So, before running barefoot across the field of local businesses to stumble across snakes and seedy operations; go to TalkLocal for all your dental/tutorial/anything needs.

Posted in talklocal | No Comments »

Average Cost For Solar Panels

Monday, April 29th, 2013

From light bulbs to windmills, everyone is searching for ways to cut down on power costs. Solar energy is one popular go-to method that homeowners use in an attempt to decrease the costs of powering their homes. But, is it worth it? Knowing the average cost for solar panels is only helpful if you know your average rate of energy consumption (kWh).

Average Household Energy Consumption

The average U.S. household consumes 1kWh. At a rate of about 10 cents per kilowatt, that averages out to a bill of about $73 per month. Obviously, this number can vary greatly by region, so it is important to determine your own average energy consumption before making an accurate assessment.

What Is The Average Cost For Solar Panels?

On average, 100 sq. ft. of solar panels will generate 1kWh. The average household needs a 5kWh solar panel system in order to store enough energy to power the home when the sun is not shining. These systems average from $25,000 to $35,000 dollars to install.

Is It Worth It?

Depending on your region, there is likely not enough sunlight to fully power your home for 24 hours. Homes with solar panel systems generate 40 to 80 percent of their energy and rely on municipal power to make up for their remaining power needs. If your system could cover 100 percent of your power needs, it would still take 20 years to pay for itself — assuming your bill is around $73 per month. On the other hand, you would be significantly reducing the amount of fossil fuels being used to power your home, which does have a powerful effect on the environment.

Confused?

Call an expert. He or she can give you more accurate numbers, instead of just an average cost for solar panels. TalkLocal can get you in touch with one in your area for free. You will be speaking to someone who can help you in minutes.

Posted in Roofers | No Comments »

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