Hurricane-Proof Home: Vehicles

Friday, August 23rd, 2013

The saying “It’s better to be safe than sorry” is especially true when it comes to preparing your home for hurricane season. That’s why it is very important to include protecting your vehicles as part of your comprehensive plan for a hurricane-proof home. If a storm is approaching and you are at home, follow these helpful tips to protect your vehicle.

Park Where It’s Safest

Your home garage would be the ideal place to park your vehicle. If you don’t have a garage, however, park your vehicle as close to your house as possible so it is partially protected from high winds and debris. Do not park under power lines or trees that can be knocked down. You can park your vehicle in a public garage, although you may not be able to get to your car immediately after a hurricane due to possible floods and road closures.

Prepare Keys and Documents

Make copies of your car keys and give a copy to everyone who is licensed to drive in your family. Should you become separated from your family and have no access to your vehicle, someone in your family will still be able to drive it to your family’s designated emergency meeting area. Also, make sure that your vehicle’s registration and insurance paperwork are stored in a safe place such as a waterproof and fireproof document safe. It would also be smart to make copies of your car’s documents.

Fill Up Your Tank

When hurricane season starts, having a hurricane-proof home is clearly necessary. However, during a disaster, you also have to be ready to go and leave your home if necessary, either to escape harm or to get help. One way to prepare for this situation is to make sure your vehicle has a full tank of gas. Otherwise, you’ll be delayed getting to your destination because you will likely have to make a stop at a gas station so you can fuel up.

Auto Insurance Policy

Make sure your policy is up-to-date. If you don’t have comprehensive coverage, consider getting it to insure your vehicle against natural disasters including flood damage and damage from fallen trees. However, it is best to secure this coverage before or early in the hurricane season, because insurers are not so keen in giving them when a storm is already on its way because of the obvious risks. Also, to better prepare should your vehicle become damaged by a hurricane, take photos of the interior and exterior of your vehicle for insurance purposes so you have proof of its pre-disaster condition.

Vehicle Damaged by a Hurricane?

If your vehicle has been damaged following a hurricane, a professional auto repair contractor will need to inspect your vehicle to determine the extent of damage. They will also be able to save, replace, or repair what they can of the damaged parts. Get connected with qualified auto repair professionals in minutes when you use TalkLocal.

Posted in Auto Repair | No Comments »

How Does 3D TV Work?

Thursday, August 22nd, 2013

A 3D TV can let you watch movies sometimes without using the bothersome 3D glasses. There’s a market for 3D DVDs, although the 3D TVs have not made a huge impact on the home entertainment industry yet. A 3D TV is the next step up from plasma and HD TVs, and one that should interest you if you are looking to upgrade your home entertainment system. Are you wondering: How does 3D TV work? Read on to find out.

Passive 3D Technology

3D televisions work the same way as 3D does in cinemas. Generally, there are two images on the TV set, one for each eye. The images are polarized vertically and horizontally. To correctly view movies on the passive 3D technology, you need special glasses like the ones used in cinemas. These glasses are inexpensive and easy to replace. They are crucial if you want to watch 3D movies on a passive 3D television set.

Active 3D Technology

For active 3D technology, instead of having two separate images for each eye, the TV alternately flashes images for each eye. This technology requires active 3D glasses, which differs from the one used in passive 3D technology because it has a power source (usually a battery) and liquid crystal lens. Without power, the active 3D glasses won’t work. They are also more expensive than passive 3D glasses. Modern game consoles can be connected here.

Glasses-Free 3D Technology

Although not widely available, this technology exists and uses “parallax barrier,” which is a relatively new technology. This parallax barrier is a special material used on the TV screen with slits for each eye. This creates the 3D effect. The only downside of glasses-free 3D technology is that viewers have to be looking at the screen from a certain angle, or else the images won’t look right.

Where to Get Professional Help

If you need professional help regarding 3D television sets, TalkLocal can help you. Contact us today so we can find a professional near you!

Posted in TV Repair | No Comments »

Underfloor Radiant Heating Systems

Thursday, August 22nd, 2013

Over the last few years, underfloor radiant heating systems (UFH), also known as in-floor heating or under tile heating systems have become increasingly popular thanks to their long list of benefits, including superior effectiveness and an elevated level of comfort, while compared to traditional heating systems. Keep reading to discover the main advantages and disadvantages of a UFH system.

What is an underfloor radiant heating system?

An underfloor radiant heating system is based on a network of pipes (made from plastic or metal), buried in one’s floor. Heated water circulates through these pipes. Basically, the system warms the floor, and then the heat coming from the floor gradually increases the temperature inside the entire room. A significant percentage of the overall heat transfer (almost 60%) is effectuated through radiation.

What are the benefits of an underfloor radiant heating system?

UFH systems are considered an excellent option by most homeowners who have already tested their advantages, mostly due to their proved effectiveness, zero noise pollution, considerable energy savings, increased eco-friendliness, and its contribution to a comfortable, cleaner, healthier environment.

a) No toxic compounds: Underfloor radiant heating systems are the perfect alternative for people with allergies or various respiratory problems because they do not emit toxic fumes, dust particles, or different other indoor pollutants potentially generating or aggravating health problems.

b) Energy savings: UFH systems function at reduced temperatures; therefore, they help homeowners experience financial savings of up to 15%, while compared to traditional heating systems.

c) Zero noise pollution: Are you annoyed by your noisy air duct system? Replace it with a UFH system with zero noise pollution, and you’ll never complain about this problem ever again.

d) Aesthetic advantage: No vents or unsightly radiators in the way of your décor.

What are the main disadvantages of an underfloor radiant heating system?

UFH systems also have a few disadvantages that you should consider before installing one in your home. Some of the most important drawbacks are:

a) Slow response time: You will have to wait for a longer time to heat or cool your living space if you count on a UFH system. The efficiency of underfloor heating is decreased, especially if the system is used every once in a while.

b) UFH are less flexible and harder to correct once installed because of their position; therefore, it is highly recommended to opt for professional installation ensured by a real specialist.

c) Retro-fitting UFH systems is considered costly and less practical

d) Underfloor radiant heating systems may damage delicate furniture; this is why several preventive measures should be implemented by homeowners who want to install a UFH system at home.

Find the best heating and cooling specialists

Are you looking for the best answers to your daily household heating and cooling problems? Consult TalkLocal and get in touch with real professionals operating in your own area, who have what it takes to turn your home into a safe, clean, comfortable environment in no time.

Posted in Heating and Cooling | No Comments »

How to Clean Stone Fireplace

Thursday, August 22nd, 2013

A stone fireplace is a beautiful piece that increases the value of your home. Stone allows for multiple styles, from classic to modern designs. A stone fireplace is an investment that you probably want to maintain in the best possible condition. The longer, the better. To that end, it is important to know how to look after it and clean it properly.

How Can You Best Protect Your Fireplace?

Because stone fireplaces can stain easily, it is highly recommended to seal them in order to cover their pores. Open pores may absorb liquids, such as coffee or wine, causing staining and discoloration. Sealing is a great way to protect your stone fireplace because it preserves its appearance and increases its resistance. If you decide to apply a sealant, you need to clean the fireplace first.

How to Clean Stone Fireplace

1. If your fireplace is sealed, warm water and a cloth should be enough to clean the soot accumulated on the stone. If it’s not sealed, you can use a brush to remove soot and debris first.

2. Then use a solution. Mix liquid soap, detergent, and some ammonia in hot water and spread it on the surface of the fireplace. After it dries, use a scrub brush to remove it. Avoid chemical cleaning products, especially flammable or abrasive ones.

3. If these methods don’t work, you can dissolve half a cup of Trisodium Phosphate (TSP) in a bucket containing one gallon of hot water and clean the surface with it.

What Not to Do When You Clean Stone Fireplace

– Don’t begin your cleaning operation until you have removed all ash from the fireplace.

– Don’t use flammable products to clean your stone fireplace, as their residue is a fire hazard.

– Don’t use bleach except in very low concentrations, and only if other cleaning methods fail, as it may dull your stone fireplace.

– Don’t use cleaning solutions before testing them in less visible spots. Wait until they dry to see if it’s safe to start cleaning the entire fireplace with it.

– Don’t clean the fireplace when heated, not to mention in use.

Additional Help

You’d rather let a cleaning professional take care of your stone fireplace? TalkLocal can help by putting you in touch with local maid services that can get the job done. We do this for free.

Posted in Maid Services | No Comments »

Hurricane-Proof Home: Trees and Garden

Thursday, August 22nd, 2013

Because it is the middle of the hurricane season, ideally you’ve already made the necessary preparations to protect your home against a storm. Part of ensuring a hurricane-proof home is taking the time to survey your yard and removing risks that could damage your home when powerful hurricane winds strike.

Prune Trees and Plants

Trim all trees and rotting or weak branches that are in contact with any part of your house. During a storm, forceful winds can make branches whip against windows and cause trees to snap and fall on the roof. You should also reduce tree or plant foliage to allow wind to blow unobstructed through the branches. This will lessen the chances of trees or plants becoming uprooted. It is best if you can schedule regular pruning so that you can alter the shape of your trees to make them more wind-resistant.

Clear Trees Away from Power Lines

Cut back trees that are close to power lines to prevent power outages that often happen during a storm due to tree limbs falling on wires. Allowing your tree to grow into a power line may get you penalized. However, never attempt to do this task on your own. Contact your electricity provider to have your tree trimmed. Usually, power companies provide tree-trimming services around their power lines.

Reduce Dangers

Make sure to remove any items in your yard that could become dangerous if caught up by strong winds during a storm, such as broken pieces of furniture, fallen branches, and old lumber. Also consider using softer gardening materials around your yard, like mulch instead of pea gravel or rock, which can also become dangerous projectiles during a storm.

Secure Loose Items

Move loose items indoors, such as umbrellas, barbecue grills, toys, potted plants, or tools. Keep scooters and bikes inside your garage. You can store your trashcans indoors or tie them together to a sturdy pole. If you have any loose house ornaments displayed outside, such as chimes, flags, and wreathes, bring them indoors.

Call a Professional

Getting your yard ready for the harshest weather is an important part of having a hurricane-proof home. Hiring professional tree-removal or tree-trimming service ensures that the job is done safely and properly. TalkLocal can connect you with three qualified contractors in minutes. Send us your request and we will search your area for the right professional to do the job. Our service is simple, fast, and free of charge.

Posted in Tree Removal | No Comments »

How to Install Lawn Sprinkler System

Thursday, August 22nd, 2013

All you have to do is type “how to install lawn sprinkler system” into any search engine, and you’ll end up with an exhaustive list of every landscaper and sprinkler installer in your region. However, for those of you who are handy and enjoy DIY projects, installing your own sprinkler system is a relatively easy job.

Proceed with Caution

The first thing you need to do is figure out if there are any buried utility lines running underneath your lawn. Your local Public Utilities Department can help you with this. Once you determine where the buried lines are, you can decide on where you want to lay the pipes for your sprinkler system. Make sure to purchase a well-rated lawn sprinkler with a long-term warranty and read the manufacturer’s instructions before installing it.

Start Digging

Once you have figured out where you want to lay the pipes, stake out the lines using string and dig the trenches at a depth of six to twelve inches. If you live in an area that is prone to deep frost, you should make sure your trenches are closer to a foot deep. You also want to ensure that all of your trenches are level with each other.

Place the Pipes

The next step is to place the pipes in the trenches, along with sprinkler tees every seven to ten feet. Use three-quarter-inch PVC pipes and connect them using rubber cement. Put together your control valves and manifold system, which you will later attach to the main water line. Attach the sprinkler heads to the tees, ensuring that the heads are level with the rims of the trenches.

Connect the Water

Your lawn sprinkler system is now installed. The last step is to connect your main water line to the manifold. Draw a pipe from the main line using a tee, which is best placed immediately beyond the water meter. Make sure to put in a shutoff and control valve before you attach this new pipe to the manifold. Turn on the water and check that the sprinklers are functioning. Once you are satisfied, simply replace the sod in the trenches and your lawn sprinkler system is ready for use.

Want Professional Help?

While a lawn sprinkler system is pretty easy to install, it still requires some technical knowhow. If you need additional help on how to install lawn sprinkler system, simply use the free referral option on TalkLocal’s website. Within minutes, you will be connected to the best sprinkler installers in your area.

Posted in Landscapers | No Comments »

Underfloor Radiant Heating

Wednesday, August 21st, 2013

Numerous homeowners consider underfloor radiant heating a viable option, mostly due to its incredibly long list of benefits, including aesthetic advantages, financial savings, zero noise pollution, an elevated level of comfort, and an eco-friendlier functionality. While these attributes look good on paper and make a great first impression, all homeowners should dig a little deeper and discover how underfloor radiant heating systems actually work before making a purchase.

How does an underfloor radiant heating system work?

A UFH system relies on a pipe network installed under the floor’s surface that transports heated water to warm the floor. After the floor is properly warmed, it becomes a source of heat and starts elevating the temperature inside the entire room.

Heated air rises in a natural manner, and the UFH system functions more effectively, triggering significant financial savings of up to 15%, compared to traditional heating solutions, due to the large radiant surface and a reduced thermal exchange between the radiant panels and the room’s cold walls. As a major plus, UFH systems can be integrated with eco-friendly, energy-efficient systems, like for instance, a green solar thermal system, but it works equally well with a condensing boiler.

Where can underfloor radiant heating systems be implemented?

UFH systems have become incredibly popular over the last few years due to their numerous advantages. They can be easily installed both in new and restructured buildings. In fact, underfloor radiant heating is a perfect match for walls, suspended floor, floating floor, solid floor, or timber floor. Here’s an extra tip: If you’re planning to make the most of your UFH system placed under your timber floor or suspended floor, increase the conductivity of the floor surface by simply adding a mix of cement and sand.

What are the most important components of an UFH system?

The functionality of an UFH system depends on many important elements, like for instance, the circulating pump, its heat source, border insulation, ball valves, couplers, manifolds, aluminum plates, and more. Despite the fact that the functionality of an underfloor radiant system is quite simple, potential problems impacting its effectiveness are hard to anticipate and solve by inexperienced homeowners.

How to find the best UFH specialist

Do you want to find the best expert in underfloor radiant heating in your area? In this case, count on TalkLocal to identify the most reputable specialists with the in-depth knowledge, the tools, and the techniques required to get the job done in the blink of an eye.

Posted in Heating and Cooling | No Comments »

Window Well Cover Materials

Wednesday, August 21st, 2013

A large number of homeowners who decide to invest in much-needed home improvements choose to purchase and install window well covers for their basement windows to minimize safety risks associated with uncovered openings and to prevent dust and debris buildups, which are hard to clean. How could one find the best window well cover materials for this project? What are the attributes of first-hand materials that should be used by all homeowners in their inexpensive, result-oriented DIY assignments?

How to choose the best window well covers

When it comes to purchasing remarkable window well covers, it is advisable to put quality over affordability. In other words, go in favor of durable, incredibly resistant, rustproof products, which could be considered an excellent investment in the long term. Apply these simple tips to make an informed decision:

1) Stay away from fragile materials and purchase covers that are designed to support a considerable weight.

2) Reinforced mesh is an exceptional alternative at hand, especially if you are constantly worried about the safety of your children and/or pets.

3) Landscapers recommend a wide range of high-quality window well cover materials, which are inexpensive, longer lasting, and maintenance-free, like steel, aluminum or polycarbonate-based products.

4) Choose a style complimenting the exterior of your home. Also, pick the right window well cover materials based on your real needs and expectations.

What are you really asking for? A higher level of protection against potential accidents and burglary attempts? A much more effective debris buildup prevention and more light inside your basement? In this case, you could buy and install mesh covers or classic bars. Either way, get in touch with a reputable supplier who won’t hesitate to offer you premium, durable materials and custom design tailored to your necessities, demands, and financial possibilities.

How to find the best window well cover supplier

Are you interested in finding and installing the best window well cover materials? If you don’t have the time, patience, and skills to conduct a DIY project, count on the in-depth knowledge of a talented landscaper. Identify the best ones by consulting TalkLocal, your one-stop source of fresh, accurate information. Contact a landscaper today and profit from tiny, yet incredibly important home improvements ensuring a higher level of comfort and safety for all of your family members.

Posted in Landscapers | No Comments »

Hurricane-Proof Home: Roofing and Siding

Wednesday, August 21st, 2013

Before a hurricane hits, it’s always best to prepare your home. The roof is highly vulnerable to damage from powerful, high-speed winds, so you cannot have a hurricane-proof home if your roofing is not ready to withstand the coming storms. You should also consider reinforcing your exterior siding or installing impact-resistant siding, especially if you live in a hurricane-prone area.

Inspect and Fix

Inspect roof shingles or tiles to see if they are all intact. If any are loose, they can become dangerous projectiles during a storm and cause damage to the material underlying the roof, so make sure to fix them using roof cement. Use asphalt cement for asphalt roof shingles. If any shingles or tiles are missing, make sure to have them replaced immediately.

Glue and Seal

Another quick fix to secure roof shingles is to apply flooring adhesive. Using a caulk gun, glue down the shingles by applying adhesive along the underside of their edges. You should also reinforce the trusses or rafters of your roof by applying construction adhesive along their sides at the spots where they are connected to your roof deck. Reduce water damage caused by heavy rains by sealing off any spaces where cables enter your home.

Secure Your Garage, Windows, and Doors

If you have a comprehensive plan for a hurricane-proof home, you should already have these areas covered. Otherwise, make sure your garage doors are braced and you have storm shutters installed to protect all of your windows and doors, which in turn will help protect your roof.

When these areas are not reinforced and hurricane winds get into them, it creates pressure inside that pushes up the roof while the force of the wind above creates a pull that can result in the roof flying off.

Hurricane Straps

During a new home construction, consider installing metal hurricane straps to your roof, which will ensure that it is fixed to the rest of the house. This option is possible in an existing home, but retrofitting would be a lot more difficult, because there is not much space to work around.

Siding Considerations

For new construction or if you’re looking to replace your old siding, building codes in hurricane-prone areas specify the use of fiber-cement siding in building homes because they can hold up well during a storm, even with 150 mph winds.

Vinyl siding is weather-resistant too, especially compared to wood and stucco, which can be easily destroyed by wind and water damage. While vinyl is impermeable and deflects wind, you still need to make it more resistant to forceful winds by attaching them tightly to the wall using fasteners.

Leave it to the Pros

When it comes to ensuring a hurricane-proof home, the smartest thing to do is hire qualified professionals to get the job done. Contact TalkLocal now, and we’ll search your area for qualified contractors fast and free of charge. Get your roof and siding storm-ready as quickly as possible with Talk Local.

Posted in Roofers | No Comments »

Heat Resistant Spray Paint

Wednesday, August 21st, 2013

Generally speaking, heat resistant spray paint forms an effective barrier against corrosion and gives a nice finish to the sprayed object, upgrading its aesthetics. However, you should know that there are various types of heat resistant spray paints used in different applications, based on their unique attributes. Keep reading to find out how to select the best product according to your real needs, requirements, and price range.

What are heat resistant spray paints?

A heat resistant spray paint is applied on different surfaces (bamboo, chipboard, steel, hardwoods, softwoods, and more) to ensure an increased heat resistance. This product is used to protect a wide range of household appliances and systems, including ovens, stoves, and exhaust systems. While they are suitable for both interior and exterior surfaces (floors, doors, decks, and so on), heat resistant spray paints should never be applied on flammable, extremely fragile materials, like paper, for example.

How are heat resistant spray paints classified?

Most homeowners need a little guidance when it comes to purchasing the right tools and materials required by a basic home maintenance routine. If you want to buy the most suitable heat resistant spray paint for your DIY project, you should know that there are two categories of heat-resistant paints.

1) Spray paints, which are used to coat and protect hot elements to protect them against corrosion and to offer them a beautiful finish.

2) Brushable paints, applied on ovens, stoves, and other hot areas inside the kitchen.

Moreover, you should also be aware of the fact that heat-resistant spray paint can be divided into 3 categories based on its heat range. According to this selection criterion, there are three types of paint: UHT (Ultra High Temperature), VHT (Very High Temperature), and stove paints with a heat resistance of up to 1,200° F.

Furthermore, most heat resistant spray paints have a satin finish and come in a great variety of colors, including black, white, clear, blue, gold, silver, and yellow.

How to find a specialist in your area

You can easily apply heat resistant spray paint on a particular area that you want to protect on your own. However, if you’d rather opt for professional services, count on TalkLocal, your trusted provider of fresh, accurate information helping you spot the best painters in your area. Call the most reliable expert today and complete all of your household maintenance work in a cost and time-effective manner.

Posted in Painters | No Comments »

« Older Entries

Newer Entries »