How Big Is My Roof

Tuesday, October 1st, 2013

Most homeowners can’t estimate the size of their roof until they are forced to conduct or supervise a roof repair project. When it comes to purchasing materials, they start asking themselves the following question: How big is my roof, and how much should I invest in construction materials? Keep reading to learn how to measure your roof fast and trouble-free. Also find out how you could identify the best roofers in your area, providing professional services designed to simplify your assignment.

1) Draw a roof diagram

Start by drawing a sketch of your roof. This will help you measure every roof section faster and easier. A proper visualization will allow you to come up with correct measurements.

2) Calculate the area of the triangular surfaces of your roof

This process is not as difficult as you might be tempted to think.

Calculate the area of the triangular surfaces, using this simple formula: LxW/2.

In other words, measure the length and the width, multiply the numbers and then divide the result by 2. Don’t forget to write down the final result on your roof diagram.

3) Calculate the area of your rectangle-shaped roof surfaces

Use this basic formula to calculate the area of the rectangular sections of your roof: LxW= SQUARE FEET.

Measure the length and the width of each area using measuring tape and then multiply the numbers to obtain the number square feet of your rectangular surface. Add the numbers obtained for each section to come up with the total number of square feet of your entire roof.

4) Estimate the amount of construction materials required by your project

After putting all of these numbers on paper, you’ll have to figure out the exact amount of materials that you need to purchase for your project. The square of your roof is the total number of square feet divided by 100. Based on the “square” of your roof, you can determine the amount of materials required by this assignment.

Ask for help

You might be wondering: How big is my roof? Hopefully, these tips will offer you an accurate answer to this question. When in doubt, don’t hesitate to contact a skilled roofer who could easily address your needs and concerns. Find the best one with help from TalkLocal, a free service designed to put you in direct contact with trustworthy, dependable professionals who are at your disposal.

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Use Post Hole Digger

Tuesday, October 1st, 2013

Post hole diggers are excellent tools that can be used in a wide range of applications. For instance, you can utilize this tool when you want to plant a tree or build a solid, durable fence.

Because a post-hole digger is not one of the most common tools frequently utilized by homeowners, it is advisable to rent one, rather than spending a small fortune on equipment that will end up gathering dust in your garage. Keep reading to find out how to use post hole digger, and make sure to contact a skilled handyman if you have additional questions.

Types of Post Hole Diggers

Now you can easily find various types of post hole diggers on the market. The manual type is equipped with handles and a pair of blades. It is inserted into the ground to extract a chunk of soil and dig a hole. Users should repeat this simple action until they finally obtain a hole that is deep enough to serve its purpose.

However, if you want to finalize a project in record time and with minimal effort, the auger type is by far the best alternative at hand, as it is much easier to use. The auger post hole diggers can create bigger, deeper holes with maximum precision. However, this device displays one limitation that every user should take into consideration: The neater holes dug by the auger models will all have the same size, coinciding with the diameter of the drilling device’s screw.

How to Utilize a Post Hole Digger

Want to learn how to use post hole digger?

1. Start by asking for a soil analysis to establish what type of post hole digger you might need to get the job done. It is recommended to start digging holes after rainfall, or after damping the soil using a garden hose.

2. Penetrate the soil by dropping the post hole digger with its metallic jaws left in an open position. Repeat this action several times to come up with a well-defined hole.

3. Form dirt clumps at least 10 to 20 inches far from the cavity; then start deepening the hole.

4. When you are finally pleased with the depth of your excavation, use the level bottom post to flatten the surface located at the bottom of the recently dug hole.

5. If you’re dealing with rock-hard soil that is virtually impossible to excavate, rely on a heavy-duty post-hole digger for 1 or 2 persons, running on gas.

Ask an expert

Undoubtedly, digging perfect holes in rock-hard soils can be quite a challenge. Instead of trying to use post hole digger on your own, let a skilled handyman address all of your home improvement needs in a timely manner. Use TalkLocal, your free service, to find the best specialists in your area who can complete any project, regardless of its size and its complexity, on time and on a budget.

Tags: post hole digger
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Colored Tape on Athletes

Monday, September 30th, 2013

What is Colored Tape on Athletes?

Colored tape on athletes is officially called kinesiology tape. It is put there to reduce pain and swelling on the affected parts of the body that are injured during sports activities. These tapes may be pre-cut to fit the affected parts of the body, or they may be manufactured in large sizes and cut manually to fit the body. These tapes come in different sizes and colors, depending on how strong and adhesive they are.

How do these tapes work?

There are several theories as to why these kinesiology tapes work. There are two main theories that we will discuss, and these are the sensory gating theory and the movement illusion theory.

However, first we must establish the connection between the brain and the skin. The brain receives signals from the skin by way of receptors. Thus, kinesiology tapes, when placed on the skin, send different signals to the brain about the condition of the part of the body involved.

Sensory Gating Theory

A tape that stretches over a painful joint will send different signals to the brain that will distract the brain from making the body feel pain. This is called nociceptive signalling. The nociceptive receptors from the brain will, in a way, be confused by the tape. Instead of sending signals of pain, they will recognize the stretching of the tape. This may even improve the body’s coordination.

Movement Illusion Theory

Another theory is that having the skin stretched by the tape fools the brain into thinking that the joints have moved. The skin being stretched makes the brain think that the joint has moved without pain. Thus, the kinesiology tape has worked wonders in making your brain think that there is no pain involved in the movement.

Need More Help in Kinesiology?

Give us a call today! TalkLocal can help you find a personal trainer near you who will be able to help you with joint pain and exercise. We’ll connect you with up to three, local professionals in just minutes.

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Why is System Restore Not Working?

Monday, September 30th, 2013

System Restore is a program in Windows that restores your computer back to a previous state. This is used for situations such as when downloaded software or malware has negatively affected your computer. There are many problems that stop the system from not working. So if you’re asking, “Why is System Restore not working?” don’t worry, there are solutions to solve these problems.

Malware or Software Conflict

System Restore is usually disabled during a malware attack. Some software can also prohibit system restore from working properly. In Safe Mode, only core drivers are activated, leaving most malware inactive. Also, most software is inactive. To activate safe mode at boot:

1. Restart the computer.

2. Press F8 as the computer boots up. This should take you to the Boot Setup screen.

3. In the boot list select Safe Mode with No Networking.

To activate safe mode in normal mode:

1. Search for “run” in the Start menu search box.

2. Select Run.

3. Type in “msconfig” in the run box and press “Ok”.

4. Select the boot tab.

5. Check the “Safe Boot” and press “Ok”.

If System Restore works, then activate your virus scanner to detect any malware. If there is no malware detected, then there is a software conflicting with System Restore. If there is software or a software update that has been downloaded recently, use System Restore to return your computer to a state before that software was downloaded.

Disk Space

The restore point may not be created if the disk space for the program is full. There are two ways to fix this problem, either by increasing allocated space or deleting restore points. To increase space for system restore:

1. Search “Create a restore point” in the start search box and select it.

2. Click “Configure”.

3. Under “Disk Space Usage” click and move the bar to the right to increase the available space for system restore.

Restore Points

To delete restore points:

1. Search “Disk Cleanup”.

2. Right Click on “Disk Cleanup” and select “Run as an Administrator”.

3. Select the “More Options” tab.

4. Under “System Restore and Shadow Copies” select “Clean up”.

Still Need Computer Help?

If this does not work, a computer repair specialist may be needed. To find a computer repair professional, just use TalkLocal. We will connect you to the best computer repair companies in your area for free. We’re the experts at finding the right experts!

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Polarity Therapy Massage

Monday, September 30th, 2013

After a long day spent at the office, a great massage can help you relax, de-stress, and recharge your batteries in a short time. Now you have unlimited access to countless wellness therapies implemented by skilled, world-class experts who have uncovered the secrets of the human body and know exactly which “buttons” to push to enhance your wellbeing.

What is the main purpose of the well-liked polarity therapy massage, and how could it help you restore your inner balance? Keep reading to discover accurate answers to these questions and more.

Discovering the Benefits of Polarity Therapy

Polarity therapy is one of the safest ways to ensure a proper energetic level throughout the entire body. It represents so much more than a series of well-studied massage techniques.

Polarity therapy is actually a complex holistic system based on an appropriate diet, exercise routine, and extensive bodywork, correlated to realign unbalanced energies in order to eliminate or alleviate a wide range of diseases.

Moreover, the advantages of polarity therapy are praised by people who want to reduce stress levels, annihilate stomach cramps, back pain, and various other recurring conditions impacting their quality of life.

How Polarity Therapy Massage Could Boost Your Well-Being

Polarity therapy represents an ingenious combination of highly beneficial massage techniques inspired by the Cabalistic teachings, the Western chiropractic practices, the Chinese culture, and the Indian Aryuveda relaxation techniques. All in all, the main goal of this therapeutic massage is to create an ideal balance between the negative and positive electromagnetic currents circulating through the human body.

Polarity therapy represents a clever mix of breathing exercises, massage techniques, tactile stimulation, and movement. Apart from eliminating stress and alleviating numerous diseases, polarity therapy massage also addresses emotional problems and enables the patient to attain an energetic balance and embrace a healthier lifestyle faster and easier than ever before. In order to benefit from the best massage therapy sessions, you must find an experienced practitioner who knows the secrets of polarity therapy massage.

Find the best practitioner

If you want to boost your energy levels, reduce stress, and recover your vitality, start by exploring the benefits of a relaxing massage session. Find the best experts specialized in polarity therapy massage by relying on TalkLocal, a free service that connects you with the right professionals in your area in a matter of minutes.

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Small Bathroom Makeovers: Smart Plumbing

Monday, September 30th, 2013

Who doesn’t dream about owning a beautiful house with appealing, modern bathrooms equipped with energy-efficient, jaw-dropping features? Small bathroom makeovers offer you the chance to take pride in spectacular results, increase your level of comfort and benefit from significant financial savings in the long term – all while involving a minimal investment. Here are a few ideas you could start implementing right away to turn your bathroom into a small corner of paradise.

1) Modern, one-piece showers represent an excellent investment

If you want to replace your old, ugly bathtub with a trendy, low-maintenance, affordable option, consider opting for one-piece showers. One-piece showers offer you numerous benefits, including:

– straightforward installations

– durability and resistance due to their premium materials (typically fiberglass or acrylic)

– remarkable affordability (their price tags range from $350 to $750)

– increased lifespan (10 to 15 years)

– and simple maintenance routine completed in a matter of a few minutes, while using a clean rag, dish soap and plenty of water.

If your bathroom space is limited, think about installing a so-called cocoon unit, which comes with a shower, ceiling and a tub.

2) Install a new vessel sink

Now you have the chance to choose from a wide selection of vessel sinks, available in different shapes, colors and sizes. Pick the one that matches your interior décor and your personal style.

There are two types of sink installations: recessed installations, triggering enhanced basin stability; and above-counter vessel sink installations, when the vessel sink is entirely supported by your vanity or by your countertop. The best vessel sinks are durable, lightweight, occupy less space, and are extremely easy to clean.

3) Low-flush toilets

If you want to embrace a greener lifestyle and reduce your utility bills, think about installing new low-flush toilets in your bathroom. They use considerably less water than a traditional toilet (up to 1.6 gallons compared to 3.5 gallons); therefore, they represent a great investment in the long term, especially if you want to waste less water and go in favor of relatively simple and affordable small bathroom makeovers.

Ask an Expert

Don’t waste any time or money trying to figure out which elements could improve the aesthetics of your bathroom while allowing you to profit from significant financial savings. Take the easy way out and contact a skilled plumber.

Find the best ones in your area by consulting TalkLocal, a free service introduced to connect you with dependable, experienced professionals who are always eager to lend you a helping hand when you need it the most.

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Benefits of in-Floor Radiant Heating

Monday, September 30th, 2013

Whether you plan on building a new home for your family or moving into one, you might want to consider an in-floor radiant heating system. These kinds of systems have a lot of benefits over the standard radiator-based systems and are widely used in homes and commercial spaces worldwide.

These radiant heating systems also have a rich history – the earliest accounts of these systems dating back to 60 A.D. when Romans used them to warm up their homes. Here are two of the biggest benefits of in-floor radiant heating systems.

Better Results, Less Space Intrusion

As with most units, you’ll still need a boiler installed somewhere in your home. That boiler will bring the liquid that circulates under your floor to a certain temperature, which you can control. But aside from the boiler, there’s no more need to figure out where you’ll want your radiators installed in every room. If you deem it necessary, you can have your home’s entire floor remodeled with the radiant heating system included.

The biggest advantage of an in-floor radiant heating system is that it provides better results than most other standard heating options. And all this due to simple physics; warm air is lighter than cold air, so it will have the tendency to move upward. A radiator covers only the zone adjacent to its location, but in-floor radiant heating systems affect the entire room, regardless of its size, at the same time. Not only that, but the floor itself will become warm, and the concrete will hold that temperature for a longer period of time, allowing you to save energy while heating your rooms.

Cost Efficiency

Along with the good results it provides, an in-floor radiant heating system will also cost you considerably less than other options. And this is because the floor itself will be heated, conserving that heat for longer periods of time. Not only that, but there are special fluids used which get warmer more quickly and stay that way for a longer period. The system will be spread evenly throughout your home and once you turn it on, you’ll get the same effect in all of your rooms, if you wish to.

Also, this system allows for faster heating all through your home, meaning that the boiler won’t have to function for long periods of time before there’s a noticeable effect. In the end, you’ll end up paying a lot less on your energy bill and, if money’s short, you can choose which rooms to heat up and which not.

Interested in in-Floor Radiant Heating?

Contact a heating and cooling professional near you to find out about installing an in-floor radiant heating system in your home. TalkLocal will connect you with up to three professionals in your area who will be available to help you when you need them.

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Transmission Flush Cost

Friday, September 27th, 2013

Car owners who want to keep their vehicles looking and running like new acknowledge the importance of an essential maintenance routine, and follow the right steps to increase the lifespan and resale value of their automobiles. If you have the skills, the tools, and a sufficient amount of time to complete such a task on your own, a DIY project could be a viable, cost-effective alternative. If you seek professional services, you might be wondering: How could I estimate the average transmission flush cost?

Reasons transmission flush cost is so important

A transmission flush is a mandatory procedure that should be conducted regularly by a specialist to eliminate the old fluid and replace it with new fluid. In some cases, an effective cleaning solvent is utilized by technicians to remove unwanted transmission fluid deposits.

In this process, the converter, cooling lines, the car’s cooler, and various other components are meticulously cleaned. Keep in mind the fact that a transmission flush operation is much more effective than a plain fluid change, as a professional flush will replace the entire amount of oil fluid while also eliminating fluid deposits that could potentially contaminate the newly introduced substance.

In this context, it goes without saying that a professional transmission flush is an indispensable service, and that you shouldn’t cut corners when it comes to this type of auto maintenance routine.

How much could a professional transmission flush actually cost me?

Want to determine the transmission flush costs? The price of a professional transmission flush will vary a great deal based on at least three important factors: the geographic location of the car owner, the vehicle’s make and model, and also on the type of shop offering you this type of service.

If you shop around, you might actually find transmission flush services priced under $100. Generally speaking, the cost of this operation ranges from $75 to $150.

How to find the best deals on professional transmission flush

Are you looking for the best auto repair services available in your area? Want to profit from great deals without making any quality compromises? If so, rely on TalkLocal, the free service designed to get you in touch with reputable auto repair experts providing excellent results, on time and on a strict budget.

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Trailer Weight Limits

Friday, September 27th, 2013

If you own a car and are currently getting ready to fill your vehicle with many passengers and heavy equipment, make sure to find out everything there is to know about car towing before going on that trip you’ve been meticulously planning for a while now.

Are you aware of the specific trailer weight limits for your automobile? Generally speaking, cars can tow a maximum weight mentioned in the specification sheet, and it is definitely not a good idea to exceed that limit. Keep reading to grasp essential car towing rules and recommendations; when in doubt, don’t hesitate to contact a car towing expert.

What is the gross train weight?

The gross train weight (also known as GTW) represents the overall weight of the loaded vehicle plus the total weight of your loaded trailer that you want to tow. Basically, the GTW includes the weight of the passengers, insanely heavy luggage, snowmobiles, tents, sleeping bags, and any similar other luggage or towed equipment.

Here’s some information that you should analyze before going on your trip: The maximum width of the trailer should not exceed 8 feet and the maximum trailer length should not exceed 23 feet, as long as it is being towed by an automobile that has a weight under 7,716 pounds. This is a general rule that should be taken into consideration by all people who plan to use a towing vehicle.

How can I determine the gross train weight?

You might have a lot of questions on your mind related to trailer weight limits and several other car towing-related issues. Remember the fact that when you use a trailer with no brakes, the gross trailer weight should be less than 1,653 pounds; if the trailer has brakes, the GTW shouldn’t top 7,716 pounds.

Also, for vehicles weighting less than 7,716 pounds, the length of the car added to the length of the trailer shouldn’t go beyond 59 feet. You could easily determine the exact GTW by driving the trailer on a public scale, available in most communities.

Ask an expert

In most cases, calculating the correct GTW value shouldn’t be a challenge. However, if you have any unanswered questions, it is advisable to contact a car towing expert. Find the best ones with help from TalkLocal, your direct connection to the right professionals in your area.

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Clean Granite Fireplace

Friday, September 27th, 2013

People who are interested in purchasing a new, appealing, durable fireplace now have the chance to check out a wide range of attractive products made from different premium materials, including marble, granite, cement and sandstone. A beautiful, resistant granite fireplace is definitely a great investment, but it will still require a thorough maintenance routine to preserve its original shine.

You can keep your granite fireplace looking like new for a longer period of time by relying on professional maid services, but you could also choose to complete a fast, cost-effective DIY project involving the usage of common household cleaning products and tools. Keep reading to find out how to clean granite fireplace in no time.

How to clean your granite fireplace in a few simple steps

1) Gather all necessary tools and cleaning products

You don’t have to purchase special tools and products to clean your granite fireplace on your own. In fact, all you need is plenty of water, a bucket, some dish soap, a sponge and one clean towel.

If you eliminate smoke and soot residue periodically, the impurities could easily be removed using a mix of dish soap and hot water (up to 3 tablespoons of dish soap dissolved in clean water).

2) Clean the granite surface properly

Scrub the entire surface with a sponge soaked in your cleaning solution, wait a few minutes, and then rinse it thoroughly to prevent the formation of opaque spots on the fireplace granite tiles, triggered by leftover soap.

In the end, don’t forget to dry the area, by wiping it with a clean, absorbent towel. It shouldn’t take you more than a couple of hours to clean granite fireplace on your own.

3) Apply a secret tip to prolong the lifespan of your granite fireplace

Granite surfaces are very beautiful and highly resistant, but tend to lose their unique shine in the absence of a proper maintenance routine.

Help your granite fireplace stand the test of time, by polishing it at least twice every year and sealing it once on an annual basis.

Ask an expert

Now you know how to clean granite fireplace fast and effectively. If you want to count on an expert opinion when it comes to keeping your house clean and your amenities looking like new, rely on TalkLocal to connect you with the very best specialists in your area, offering you high-quality maid services tailored to your needs and budget.

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