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Tuesday, November 12th, 2013

When you build a home theater, you should think about the supplies that you will want while watching your favorite shows. These include food and drinks. This is why most home theater enthusiasts opt to install mini refrigerators, mini bars, and microwaves.

Microwaves are usually used to make popcorn or to heat pizza for those movie nights when you stay in and relax on the couch. Appliances installed in your home theater are an important part of your viewing experience.

Installing a Mini-fridge

When buying a mini-fridge, consider the capacity that you need. If you plan on having a lot of friends over, then you need a mini-fridge with a larger capacity.

When installing a mini-fridge, make sure you place it somewhere that’s readily accessible, even while you are viewing. Don’t place it at the other end of the room, that’s a long way to go just to grab a drink. Install it someplace where it’s out of the way yet convenient to access. When you build a home theater, ergonomics are an important part of the initial planning.

Installing a Mini-bar

Mini-bars are great for when you’re entertaining guests and want to serve drinks. Locate a mini bar in a corner of your home theater, out of the way. Stock it with your favorite liquor, so you can make cocktails that are sure to please your friends. It’s a good idea to have a small freezer near your mini bar so you can have access to ice when you need it.

Installing a Microwave

A microwave can be placed on the counter of your mini-bar. The microwave’s power supply should be out of the way so nobody will trip on it. Like all appliances, the best idea is to plan the microwave’s location before you start to build a home theater.

Need Help with Appliances?

Contact TalkLocal today and let use help you find a professional near your area in minutes! We can connect you with a reliable repair technician to keep all of you appliances up and running.

Posted in Appliances Repair | No Comments »

How to Remove Household Mold

Tuesday, November 12th, 2013

Mold appears in almost every house. If there’s mold in your home, the important thing to do is to stop it before it spreads and harms your household. Here are some tips to safely remove household mold:

Reduce Moisture

Decrease the moisture level in your home. Since mold needs water or moisture to form, this is the most crucial step in controlling mold growth. Dry out the affected room or your entire house using a fan or dehumidifier. If you discover a leaky pipe or other moisture/water problem in your home, fix it as soon as possible to control and prevent mold growth in the future.

Look for Mold

Many types of mold love dark places so they can easily grow in hidden areas in your home, such as behind drywall or wallpapers, under the carpet padding, or in ceiling tiles. You are very likely to have a mold problem in these areas if your home has been seriously flooded. In this case you will have to tear out the water-damaged material or surface to reveal the mold growth.

Remove Moldy Porous Materials

Porous items can hold mold spores and become a persistent source of food for mold. Therefore, any porous item that has been wet or damp for more than a couple of days or has visible mold should be thrown away. It’s probably too late to remove household mold from these items. Such items include carpet, carpet padding, flooring material, ceiling tiles, mattresses, rugs, upholstery, wallpaper, insulation, clothing, soft plastic and paper.

Moldy drywall should also be removed since it is impossible to remove household mold from drywall just by cleaning the surface. Once the drywall has been removed, let the exposed materials and studs dry completely.

You can clean the studs with a bleach solution or with a product that has quaternary ammonium compounds or aluminum hydroxide.

Always wear protective gear when cleaning and remember to dry the area completely after you’ve finished the wet work.

Mold on Wood Floors

Wooden floors displaying visible mold should be sanded down. However, do not attempt this task, because you can easily inhale toxic mold spores during sanding. Call a trained mold removal professional for this job.

Mold on Cleanable Materials

Some surfaces that get moldy can be cleaned, such as concrete, hard tiles, hard plastic, metal, and glazed ceramics. To remove household mold from these surfaces, wash them with detergent using hot water and a stiff brush.

If you decide to use bleach and other disinfectants, remember never to mix ammonia and bleach because the combination of chemicals will produce toxic fumes. Always dilute bleach in water before using (1:10 ratio) and wear protective gear.

Need Cleaning Help?

While you can easily remove household mold from small areas with basic cleaning products, always call a professional to deal with extensive mold growth. TalkLocal can quickly find mold experts to help you. Contact us now!

Posted in Maid Services | No Comments »

Underfloor Electric Heating Installations

Tuesday, November 12th, 2013

While underfloor electric heating may be a bit extravagant for most homes, it is a wonderful feature to have and something you will truly enjoy when winter sets in and your floors are warming your feet instead of numbing them. So if you are considering installing electric radiant floor heating, below is some basic information about this type of heating system.

How does it work?

Also known as a dry system, underfloor electric heating is the most commonly used type of radiant floor heating. The other radiant heating system for use under floors is known as a wet system, or hydronic radiant heating, and makes use of hot water coursed through tubes beneath the floor.

An underfloor electric heating system, meanwhile, uses a wire mesh mat that contains a series of looped wires and is connected to your electrical supply. You can trim or splice the mat and simply roll it out to easily cover a large area.

The heating element is electrically insulated to prevent electric shocks. This system provides a low, even heat under the floors. It takes some time to build up heat and warm the room, but it also takes longer to cool down. It can heat flooring up to 95 degrees (F).

What are the most suitable types of flooring?

While underfloor radiant heating can be used with a variety of floor types, it works best when it is installed under thick, solid floors like stone, concrete, marble, brick, or tile flooring. It is not ideal to be used under carpeted floors, hardwood, or vinyl floors since these types of floor covering serve as insulators that block heat.

Pros and Cons

Pros: Underfloor electric heating that is installed under the ideal type of flooring will retain heat for a long period of time even when the power supply has been turned off.

– When the temperature is set properly, it heats the floor subtly to provide pleasant warmth in the room.

– It can help minimize your total heating costs by reducing the load of your HVAC or other space heaters.

Cons: Underfloor electric heating is difficult to retroactively install in a home.

– If any wires become damaged, getting to them under the flooring for repair can be tricky.

– Although it can be used as a primary heat source, it is designed to warm the floor surface rather than the entire room.

– It is expensive to use.

How much does it cost to operate?

The cost will depend on your location and local electricity rates. However, a good cost estimate would be at least $0.25 up to about $0.35 per day if operated 8 hours every day in a medium-sized room.

Planning to Install this System?

You’ll need expert help. Use TalkLocal to find heating experts in your area now. We’ll connect you with local professionals fast so your floors will be toasty in no time.

Posted in Heating and Cooling | No Comments »

How to Fix a Broken Mailbox Key

Tuesday, November 12th, 2013

When it comes to keys, the most unpleasant thing that can happen besides losing your key is to break one off inside a lock. If it’s your mailbox key, and not your house key, you’ll probably be less worried, but you’ll still need to fix it as soon as possible to have access to your mail. Here are a few tips on how to fix a broken mailbox key.

Call a Locksmith

If your mailbox key breaks inside the lock, the first thing that comes to mind is to call a locksmith. But before doing that, you can try to solve the matter on your own to save time and money.

Use a Broken Key Extractor

A broken key extractor is a tool specially designed for extracting keys from locks. There are professional key extractor sets that can be pricy, but you need the simple version of the tool, which is affordable and can be found in most tool shops.

Use a Hooked Piece of Metal

If you don’t have a broken key extractor, you could try using a hooked piece of metal, such as a paper clip or a piece of wire. Your goal is to insert the wire into the key shaft and seize the ragged side of your mailbox key. Once you manage to do that, start wiggling it out, and then use some pliers to pull it out completely.

The piece of metal you use needs to fit inside the opening. If it’s not strong enough, you won’t be able to pull out the key. Also, if your key has only one ragged side, it will be more difficult to grab it than if both sides are uneven.

Use Some Lubricant

To make things easier, try squeezing some lubricant into the key shaft. It will help you pull out the broken mailbox key if you can grab it with the hooked piece of metal.

Use a Magnet

You can also try using a magnet to pull the broken mailbox key out. However, you need a strong magnet, and this will probably only work with a very small key.

If none of the above methods helps you fix your broken mailbox key, you should consider calling a locksmith. TalkLocal can find a local professional right away to get the problem solved. It’s fast and free.

Posted in Locksmiths | No Comments »

Snow Tires on Front Wheel Drive

Monday, November 11th, 2013

Most drivers ask themselves the following question: do I really need snow tires on front wheel drive vehicles? The answer is quite simple: if you live in an area where temperatures often go below 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius) during the cold season, then yes, you should definitely purchase and install premium snow tires.

Reasons Why Snow Tires Are a Hot Must-Have during Winter

When it comes to prepping their cars for a hard winter, drivers have to take a considerable amount of money out of their pockets. This is precisely why some of them want to cut corners and install only two snow tires, instead of four.

Why are snow tires so important, and why do you need four? Due to their special tread pattern, they perform better on icy, sloppy roads. Moreover, they preserve their flexibility in the coldest environments.

Do I Need Snow Tires on Front Wheel Drive Cars?

Just like millions of other drivers, you might be wondering: would it be a good idea to put snow tires on front wheel drive cars? The answer is yes. In fact, 70% of all car manufacturers advise owners to install snow tires on four-wheel-drive automobiles and also on vehicles with a front-wheel-drive or a rear-wheel-drive layout.

Opt for four snow tires, instead of installing two summer tires and two winter tires; by doing so, you will considerably reduce collision risks and gain full control over your vehicle even in the most difficult driving conditions.

Ask an expert

Replacing the tires that you use during spring, summer, and autumn with snow tires is definitely an inspired decision. However, if you have any doubts regarding this action, don’t hesitate to contact a snow removal expert and get the best answers to your questions.

Find the best professionals operating in your area by relying on TalkLocal, a free service that simplifies your daily life by connecting you with the right professional, right now.

Posted in Snow Removal | No Comments »

Window Estimates and Why You Need Them

Monday, November 11th, 2013

If you want to replace your old, ugly, inefficient windows with newer ones, it is advisable to get some window estimates and hire a skilled window replacement contractor. A contractor will provide you with professional services and expert advice throughout the entire process.

How Could a Window Replacement Contractor Help Me?

Recent studies suggest that homeowners who choose to install their own windows benefit from financial savings of up to $100 per window. However, it goes without saying that not all families know which types of windows are actually more suitable for their properties and which are a waste of money.

To simplify your decision-making process, hire a contractor offering you realistic window estimates. The best specialists could guide you towards Energy Star-rated products, enabling you to profit from considerable federal, state, and utility company incentives.

Things That You Should Know about Window Replacement

If you want to replace all the windows on your property, be ready to spend anywhere from $2,000 to $7,000 on this project. furthermore, if you require additional structural repairs and interior remodeling work, most contractors will charge you extra, making you invest up to $12,000 in this home improvement assignment.

There are various popular categories of windows, including single-hung and double-hung models, sliding windows, casement windows, glass block windows, and so on. To find the best types of windows for your home and budget, consult the online catalogs of some of the most reputable manufacturers.

By simply entering your ZIP code you can get accurate info on price and availability. The average costs of all materials required by this project range from $239 to $289 per window.

Consult an Expert

Want to get the most accurate window estimates? In this case, discuss your options with a competent window replacement expert in your area. Find the best one with help from TalkLocal, a free service introduced to simplify your daily life by connecting you with the professionals you need, when you need them

Posted in Window Replacement | No Comments »

Roof Restoration Cost Calculation

Monday, November 11th, 2013

If your roof is in a deplorable condition, don’t hesitate to pay the right price for high-quality repairs. Water leaks, rusted roofing surfaces, and chipped paint are simple problems that could be easily addressed by most homeowners.

However, extensive damages triggered by storms or by a superficial maintenance routine usually demand professional repairs. Want to estimate the total roof restoration cost? Keep reading to discover how much you’d have to invest in your roofing restoration.

Factors to Consider before Hiring a Contractor

All homeowners have one thing in common: they want to make the most of affordable repairs and keep their roof looking like new for the longest period of time. If you can still stand on your roof, this means that it represents an eligible candidate for professional restoration.

There are three main factors that you should consider before opting for a particular contractor: price, client service, and the quality of their roofing repairs.

How Much Money Would I Have to Spend on Roof Restoration?

Roof restoration cost can vary a great deal, according to the size of the roofing structure that requires repair. According to recent information provided by the Reliance Roof Restoration, prices range from $28 to $38 per 10.76 sq ft. for small-size roofs of up to 1,937.5 square feet.

Restoring a medium-size roof with a total surface of 2,583 square feet could cost you anywhere from $22 to $28 per 10.76 sq ft.

Moreover, if your house is covered by a large roof measuring up to 2,583 square feet, you could save big on roofing restoration and spend only $17 to $22 per 10.76 sq ft.

Ask an Expert

Want to determine the exact roof restoration cost to see if you can afford to pay for professional services? If so, all you need to do is to call your favorite contractors and ask them for a free, no-obligation estimate.

If you want to find competent roofers in your area, rely on TalkLocal to narrow down your search. Talk Local is a great, free service enabling you to connect with the most reliable professionals in your area.

Posted in Roofers | No Comments »

Choosing a Personal Trainer

Monday, November 11th, 2013

If you want to live a healthier life, lose those annoying extra pounds, and stay in great shape, it is highly recommended to do a basic set of physical exercises on a regular basis. If you’re currently seeking expert guidance and a personalized workout to meet your unique fitness goals, don’t hesitate to contact a personal trainer and discuss your options. Choosing a personal trainer shouldn’t be a hassle. Follow these simple guidelines to make a wise decision.

Where to Start Looking

Word of mouth can help you get in touch with extraordinary personal trainers who live and work in your own area. However, keep in mind that what may motivate your friends or coworkers to stay fit and active may not work in your case.

Conduct an online search and use yellow pages to spot the perfect candidates in your area. Go to several gyms located near your home and ask about personal training packages. Meet the personal trainers in person and compare rates to narrow down your search.

Interview Your Favorite Personal Trainers

Thinking about choosing a personal trainer? If you want to evaluate the performance of your favorite personal trainers, you have to see them in action. Do they embrace “tough love” strategies to get results or do they opt for a softer approach?

Do you feel that you could easily connect with them? Do they seem like they know what they’re doing? At the end of the class, ask them a few questions to identify the best candidate for this job.

Get all the details you need on his or her motivational techniques, the recommended workout routine tailored to your unique objectives, multiple-client classes, individual sessions, types of packages currently available, and refund policies. In the end, ask about credentials and experience to eliminate all doubts and make an inspired decision.

Ask an expert

Choosing a personal trainer is a pretty straightforward process, especially if you follow the simple guidelines detailed above. TalkLocal is an amazing free service, designed to put you in contact with hundreds of skilled professionals operating in your area. Rely on Talk Local to meet the most dependable, gifted, result-oriented personal trainers who are actually worth your time and money.

Posted in Personal Trainers | No Comments »

Flower Bedding Tips

Monday, November 11th, 2013

Flower bedding is an important consideration when it comes to improving the appearance of your garden. Working in the garden to create the flower bedding you desire can be a rewarding activity if you follow several guidelines. The tips below will make your work easier, helping you design beautiful flower beds.

There are several things you should bear in mind when thinking about flower bedding. A little planning beforehand can go a long way, so remember the following:

– The depth of the flower bedding must be adequate.

– Use liquid fertilizer to prepare your flower bedding.

– Use snail bait.

How Do You Actually Bed the Flowers?

1. You should start by taking the plant out of its container. This operation should be performed gently, otherwise you might harm the flower before planting it. Don’t pull the plant by the leaves.

2. Flowers should be planted at soil level. If you plant flowers too deeply, the root and eventually your little plant will rot. If you don’t cover the root of the flower with enough soil, it will dry.

3. Once you’ve placed the plant, you should water it. You can use water or liquid fertilizer, whichever best suits your purpose.

4. Finally, don’t forget to protect your plants against snails. Snail bait should be spread on the soil immediately after flower planting, otherwise you may lose it in a short time.

Flower Bedding Types

When bedding flowers you also need to think about the type of flowers you want to have in your garden. For instance, one way to arrange the flowers is by creating a pattern using perennials and annuals. Another is to base your arrangement on a color scheme.

If gardening is not your thing or if you don’t think you can handle it successfully, TalkLocal can help. We can find local professionals to help you grow beautifully bedded flowers.

Posted in Landscapers | No Comments »

Metal Roof Coating Buyer’s Guide

Friday, November 8th, 2013

If you want to keep your metal roof in excellent condition for the longest period of time, or if you have to prevent or address some of the most common roofing issues, choose to purchase and apply high-quality metal roof coating. You can complete this simple task on your own, or with help from a skilled roofer.

When Should I Invest in Metal Roof Coating?

High-quality metal roof coating is recommended in various situations and can fix a wide range of problems, including:

– Roof leaks

– Extensive storm damage

– Rusty metal roofs

– Oxidized aluminum surfaces

What Are the Main Benefits of Metal Roof Coating?

Metal roof coatings have a long list of benefits. They can increase your roof’s lifespan, for a start. They also reduce construction debris and lower energy use, in turn generating financial savings.

Let’s start at the beginning: a cost-efficient re-coating project can extend the life of your roof by minimizing the negative impact of UV rays. Metal roof coatings lower rooftop temperatures and limit heat aging.

Moreover, the best products also display remarkable emissive and reflective attributes, help you preserve an ideal temperature inside your house at all times, and reduce your energy consumption.

Last, but not least, coatings guarantee immediate aesthetic improvements. Note that applying metal roof coating is always easier (and cheaper) than replacing an old, damaged roof.

How to Find the Best Metal Roof Coating

Now you have the knowledge to analyze different types of metal roof coatings. Choose the best one based on its ease of use, its reflective properties, its elasticity, and its price tag. Keep in mind that the most recommended products listed in this category are VOC-free, durable, non-toxic and have only a faint odor.

Ask an Expert

Identifying the best metal roof coating can be challenging and time-consuming. Simplify the whole process by relying on the expert guidance provided by a competent roofer. Find the best one in your area by consulting TalkLocal, your number one source of information.

Posted in Roofers | No Comments »

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