Roof Valley Construction

Monday, September 2nd, 2013

A roof valley is the joint where the two slopes of a roof meet. Proper roof valley construction is the best way to make sure no water collects in the joint and seeps below to damage the shingles of the roofing. The best way to perform a systematic roof valley construction is to use a metal flashing to cover the joints.

Roof Valley Construction Tips

1. Seal the roof valley entirely with tar paper. Start at the bottom near the eaves and place sections of tar paper such that each piece above overlaps the piece below by 6 inches. This will make sure no moisture gets under it.

2. You can now get started with the metal flashing. Always try to get a flashing at least 24 inches wide so that it covers at least 12 inches of roof on both slopes. Bend the flashing right in the middle in such a way that it fits perfectly in the valley. The easiest way to do this bending is using a large tool called a “break.” It can be found in hardware stores, and your best bet would be to take your flashing there and have them do it for you.

3. Now carefully lay the flashing atop the already-placed tar paper in a way that it fits perfectly and adheres to both sections of the roof. Position the flashing and firmly nail it in place. Make sure you press in all nails very close to the edge of the flashing so that it will be covered by the shingles on both sides. Do not have any nails near the crease in the middle.

4. Make sure that you carefully shingle the roof. Choose the right shingles that look good and provide flawless protection from the elements. Place shingles on both the sides and trim the shingles carefully to finish with a neat and tidy look. Performing high quality roof valley construction ensures that your home stays effectively protected from the elements.

Get Professional Roofing Help

Projects like roof valley construction are best left to professional roofers for a complete and infallible job. If you need a roofer, TalkLocal will do the legwork for you and bring the best professionals in your area directly to you. Just give us a call or drop by our website.

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Wolf Gas Stove

Monday, September 2nd, 2013

A large number of homeowners choose to invest a significant amount of money in first-class appliance, launched on the market by prestigious manufacturers, rather than opting for less-reliable products, introduced and promoted by obscure companies playing the affordability card.

In this context, some of them are interested in kitchen appliances brought to them by leading brands, like Wolf and Viking. What are the main differences between these two major brands? Why is the Wolf gas stove an excellent option for all family members who know how to appreciate a home-cooked meal?

Wolf appliances vs. Viking applieances

What are you generally asking for? Financial savings, increased durability, superior energy-efficiency, or perhaps you’d like to profit from all of the above? One thing’s for sure: When it comes to purchasing high-end kitchen appliances, most people are tempted to test the effectiveness of the well-liked Viking and Wolf gas stove. What are the unique attributes of these two types of increasingly popular items? Wolf puts a two-year guarantee on the table and launches products with heavier components and a much-appreciated cast-iron frame, the symbol of extended durability.

A Wolf gas stove with a cast-iron frame has a lifespan of up to 25 years, as long as it is utilized properly by its owner. However, generally speaking, Wolf appliances are a little heavier; this is why it is recommended to consult a specialist before installing a Wolf gas stove in your home.

In terms of heat output, Wolf burners provide anywhere from 500 BTU (British Thermal Units, an energy unit representing the equivalent of 1055 Joules) to approximately 16,000 BTU, while the heat output of Viking burners doesn’t exceed 15,000 BTU. Despite the fact that Wolf burners are the absolute winners in this category, when it comes to modern design specifications they are somehow still behind their main competitors, the well-known Viking burners, which offer diverse design possibilities (including the popular, mint or cobalt blue finishes) to their potential clients.

How to find the right Wolf gas stove

Wolf is definitely a powerful brand, selling modern, energy-efficient, durable, practical, fully functional gas stoves that come with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. However, there are different product specifications that should be properly analyzed before making your final decision.

When in doubt, it is advisable to rely on a competent appliance repair specialist. Find the best experts in your area by simply consulting TalkLocal, your one-stop source of accurate, helpful information.

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Average Prices of a Car

Monday, September 2nd, 2013

Average Price of a New Car

A new car is a joy to have for everybody. You may be wondering about the average prices of a car. The latest prices of a new car in 2013 average about $30,000. This is a $1,200 increase in price from the previous year. The increase in price is due to the high demand for cars.

The average age of cars has also increased in recent years. The average age of cars is 10.8 years, while the average age for light trucks is 10.4 years in 2011. Of course, sometimes you may want to augment your new car with accessories, and this may increase costs. Installing new windshield wipers, for instance, adds extra cost.

There are other costs that have driven up the average prices of a car. In the US, higher gas prices have been a contributing factor to the increased prices of cars. This is due to stringent federal standards, which is the cause of the gas prices that reached an all-time high in 2012.

The Cost of Used Cars

It is also important to consider the average prices of used cars, because not every potential car owner is looking for brand-new vehicles. The prices of used cars have also increase. This is due, in part, to the supply of older car models dwindling in the last few years.

Of course, there are several additional costs to acquiring used cars. The paint on the exterior may have deteriorated, needing a repaint. Additionally, there may be problems with the steering that you need to fix. All in all, the average prices of a car have increased, and this goes for both new and used cars.

Calling a Professional

Need car help? Here at TalkLocal, we are dedicated to helping you maintain your vehicle, no matter how old it is. Use our free service to be connected with high-quality mechanics in your area today!

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Mitre Saw Blades

Monday, September 2nd, 2013

Mitre saw blades are typically used to make accurate cuts and mitre cuts. The usual version of this blade fixes the blade at a 90ᵒ angle to the vertical. This is a circular blade. The blade that can be adjusted to other angles is the compound mitre saw, while a sliding mitre saw can be adjusted to cut wider pieces. Mitre saw blades usually have 80 teeth and a hook that is negative. They are useful for making smooth glass mitres. The best mitre blades use thick steel that is carefully cut to ensure accurate and smooth cutting.

Choosing a Mitre Saw Blade

Selecting the right mitre saw blade is important if you want accuracy and smooth cuts. There are several factors to consider in choosing a mitre saw blade.

Because mitre saw blades can be used to build several types of landscaping accessories for your garden, including a wooden arbor, you have to know the right way to choose them. You have to select the proper size or diameter of your blade for your saw. Don’t think of saving money by getting a smaller blade, because it won’t cut properly and will lead to other problems.

Next, you have to consider the purpose and material for which you will use the blade.

After this, you have to select the blade that is appropriate for your saw. Metal blades are usually appropriate for all types of saws, including mitre saws. It is best to use the type of blade specifically made for your saw, or else you will run into more problems.

Lastly, you have to consider the tooth count. Generally, you want more tooth count if you are planning to make finer cuts, such as for building birdhouses. For thicker material, however, you want a mitre saw blade that has lower tooth count.

Where to Get Help

Do you need professional help for your landscaping needs? Contact TalkLocal today, and let us help you find the professionals that will help.

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28 (Mis)Adventures: Being Insecure About My Teeth Affected Me Growing Up

Saturday, August 31st, 2013

A blog about life experience and inexperience, written by Dallea Caldwell.

Do you remember when you lost your two front teeth? Maybe you mainly remember the cold hard cash under your pillow and blowing it on a wild night of binge-drinking soda pop and doing lines of sugar straws. The rest is probably a cheek-pinched blur.

But, if you’re lucky, it was just a phase. And you traded in your bike’s training wheels and got your big kid teeth. Because, at some point, having an irregular smile gets decidedly less adorable.

Unfortunately for me, I didn’t get to enjoy my big teeth for long. I mean, I continued to have them… but there was no enjoyment. I was joyously playing “It” at the playground when I tripped, dragging my gleeful grin across the pavement.

So, I had 2 chipped front teeth. And unfortunately, in my working-class family, regular cleanings and other essentials had to take precedence over cosmetics. Throughout middle school and high school I learned to be insecure. I smiled with pursed lips or with my lower lip hiding the jagged flaws. I spoke little around strangers. And, I only nodded politely when complemented, fearing that if they saw my crooked smile, they’d no longer find me pretty.

Of course, I was still a happy kid. Teased, but who wasn’t? Self-conscious, but only about a million things from my nose to my feet… just like every other kid.

Still, it wasn’t until college that I discovered the difference a carefree smile makes. In my sophomore year my family finally garnered the means to take care of both basic and cosmetic dental needs. I was fitted for porcelain veneers and boy what a difference!

At first, I smiled less than before. By college I’d come to terms with my smile and convinced myself that it wasn’t that bad. After all, I had friends and a boyfriend. I could chat over lunch and everyone kept their food down.

My fear was that people who treat me so much better and be so astounded at my new appearance that it would spoil my delusions. It would prove that I was, in fact, grotesque.

But, when I did let go, the sensation was so addictive. Happy is so much happier and funny is so much funnier when you’re free to smile and laugh as big as your heart desires.

Now, my eyes and nose crinkle for every joke, greeting, and picture. My whole face is pinched under the weight of my big beaming smiles.

Thanks to new technologies like Invisalign and laser teeth whitening, it’s never too late to get the smile you’ve always wanted. Insecurity dampens every occasion and adds a bad punchline to every joke. So, visit www.talklocal.com to find a dentist who can correct whatever insecurity you want fixed. You won’t believe how happy your happiness will feel!

Posted in Seva Team | No Comments »

Massage Therapy Session Cost

Friday, August 30th, 2013

Massage therapy can be used for many different reasons. It could be used as a relaxation outlet as well as a pain and tension reliever. Massages are performed by professionals who have received extensive training on various ways to relieve pain and relax the body.

Types of Massage Therapy

There are several different types of massage therapy. Some of them include the Swedish massage therapy, the sports massage therapy, the hot stone massage therapy, and even deep tissue massage therapies. There are additional massage therapies as well. The massage therapy session cost that you will pay is going to vary based on the type of massage therapy you get.

The Cost of a Massage Therapy Session

Most massage therapy sessions are priced according to the type of session you’re going to get as well as the length of time you’d like to attend. Massage times can range from as little as 30 minutes to as many as 90 minutes or more. Massage experts say that in order to receive optimal results, you should plan to attend for at least 60 to 90 minutes.

Naturally, the least amount of time for your session will cost the least amount of money. With that said, though, your therapy session will be extremely limited. A 30-minute session can cost as little as $30. If you chose to go with a 60-minute session, your massage could be more extensive and typically cost as little as $50-$60. A 90-minute session could cost as much as $100-$150 or more.

Benefits of Your Massage Therapy Session

Massage therapies can be extremely beneficial. Some of the benefits may include, but are not limited to, less stress, less anxiety, improved muscle flexibility, improved blood circulation, and an overall improvement in health. These benefits can, in turn, lead to a much more healthy and successful life.

Are You Looking for a Massage Therapist?

If you are looking for a massage therapist, then why not allow TalkLocal to do the work for you? We’ll locate and connect you with a reputable massage therapist within only a few short minutes. Try us out today!

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Radiant Heating Systems for Homes

Friday, August 30th, 2013

Radiant heating systems for homes, or under-floor heating, are heating systems that involve placing tubing under the floor to transfer heat into a room through infrared radiation, as well as convection. They are considered to be more efficient than conventional heating systems because they prevent energy loss. Moreover, this kind of system allows for various fuels to be used, including natural gas, wood, or solar energy.

Radiant systems for homes are considered to be healthier. This type of system is recommended, especially for people suffering from allergies. Unlike other heating systems based on blown or forced air, under-floor heating doesn’t spread dust and other particles inside a room.

How Many Types of Radiant Heating Systems for Homes Are There?

There are two types: electric radiant heating and hydronic heating. The major difference between the two is that the wiring under the floor is heated by electricity in the former case and by hot water in the latter. With an electric radiant heating system, the tubing installed under the floor radiates heat vertically. The electric type is preferred if you want to heat a smaller space, like the bathroom or the kitchen. To heat the whole house, it’s better to go for hydronic heating, which is more efficient.

What Are the Benefits of Radiant Heating Systems for Homes?

– They heat a space uniformly. The whole surface of the floor gets warm due to the ducts underneath. With a forced-air heating system, warm air raises to the ceiling while the temperature on the floor drops. This makes radiant heating more comfortable.

– Insulation increases the efficiency of under-floor heating.

– Radiant heating systems for homes is quiet and invisible, so it is superior to conventional heating systems from this point of view as well.

It’s not always worthwhile to replace existing heating systems, because it involves tearing up the floor. However, if you’re building a new house or if you decide to make important renovations, a radiant heating system might be an option.

Additional Help

If you want to find out more about radiant heating systems, or are considering having one installed, TalkLocal can put you in touch with a qualified professional who can offer you all of the assistance you need.

Posted in Heating and Cooling | No Comments »

How Long Should Fire Logs Dry?

Friday, August 30th, 2013

Fire logs are utilized by numerous homeowners as highly effective wood fuel, which is longer-lasting, affordable, and easier to burn. People hoping to embrace a greener lifestyle now have the chance to purchase and utilize eco-friendlier fire logs made from renewable materials (sawdust, green animal- or plant-based waxes) producing a negligible amount of sulfur emissions and generating reduced CO emissions that are eventually absorbed by plants. In this context, many people are probably asking themselves the following question: How long should fire logs dry, and how could I possibly find the best wood fuels?

1) Choosing the right fire logs

First of all, make sure that you find and purchase high-efficiency fire logs that are 90% combustible, natural, coming from renewable sources, and producing a minimized amount of emissions. Instead of opting for semi-dry wood, ask for dry fire logs, which don’t waste energy during their burning process.

Tree removal experts advise us to pay attention to 2 important factors impacting the calorific value (CV) of all types of fire logs: wood density and moisture content. It is recommended to opt for denser wood (hardwood) to experience financial savings, as hardwood offers you more kilowatt-hours per cubic meter than softwood. Moreover, make sure your fire logs are 100% dried. You should know that seasoned logs (dried ones) have twice the calorific value (CV) of green fire logs.

2) How to dry your fire logs properly

Want to reduce the moisture content of your fire logs? In this case, all you need to do is chop the logs into smaller pieces and let them dry naturally during spring and summer (for at least 6 months before burning it in your stove). In theory, a longer drying time would be required (up to 2 years), but only a few homeowners follow this suggestion, as the rest of them consider it impractical.

Trees should be cut in November or December, when they are still dormant, so that fire logs could display reduced moisture content. Also, make sure you store your fire logs properly, in a dry, properly ventilated place. If you plan to buy fire logs, make sure they were seasoned at least one year ago to profit from an increased calorific value.

Still wondering how long should fire logs dry? Up to 24 months if you’re really patient, but you can definitely make the most of well-seasoned wood after only 6 or 7 months of storage, if you chop the logs into tiny, manageable pieces.

Having Tree Problems?

Do you have dead wood sitting in your yard that needs getting rid of, or would you like to turn a troublesome tree into useful fire logs? Then use TalkLocal to be connected with up to three professionals in your area who can help you.

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How to Find and Install Bar Window Guards

Friday, August 30th, 2013

Homeowners who consider their safety a top priority are always interested in finding and applying simple, cost-effective preventive measures guaranteeing superior protection against accidents and burglary attempts. High-quality, durable, extremely resistant bar window guards serve this end purpose, enabling families to rest at ease knowing that their loves ones and their valuable belongings are out of harm’s way.

Furthermore, most people who never want to deal with the emotional trauma and the financial losses triggered by a break-in are probably looking for the best deals on 5-star security bars and window guards. Keep reading to discover how to find and install bar window guards tailored to your real needs, specifications and allocated budget.

Identifying the Right Products

Assuming that you have the skills, the knowledge, and the tools required to start a DIY project and install your window guards without contacting a handyman, make sure you opt for the best product your money can buy. Don’t settle for cheap window guards that could be easily damaged by an experienced perpetrator in a matter of a few seconds.

It is recommended to purchase and install 15-inch, permanently fixed security window bars made from iron by reliable manufacturers well-known for their high quality standards and their remarkable attention to detail.

Apart from the fact that bar window guards can easily stop your children and pets from getting outside the house while also preventing burglary attempts, these highly beneficial products also add value to your property and enhance the curb appeal of your home. Who wouldn’t love to live in a beautiful house, decorated with custom-built bar window guards meeting and even exceeding your highest expectations, in terms of exterior design ideas? Choose to collaborate with a respectable supplier who will bend over backward to show you the best bar window guards designed to beautify and protect your private residence at the same time.

Installing Bar Window Guards

Once you’ve found the right bar window guards for your home, all you need to do is to install them properly.

1. Start by reading the manufacturer’s instructions and always make sure your window guards comply with current building codes and fire codes. When in doubt, call your local fire department and ask for expert guidance.

2. Use the tools and materials recommended by the bar window guard manufacturer.

3. After putting the window guard in place, make sure there are no openings wider than 4 or 5 inches.

4. Also, your window guards should be properly attached to your window frames, which should be in excellent condition. Moreover, keep in mind that most types of bar window guards are unsuitable for areas with inclement weather conditions, as they could easily rust.

Get Professional Installation

You could install the bar window guards yourself, or you could consult TalkLocal, your unique source of problem-solving information, to find the best handymen in your area, who could complete this simple assignment in record time.

Tags: window guards
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Cold Resistant Clothing

Friday, August 30th, 2013

Apart from being fashionable, tasteful, and comfortable, our clothes should also offer us superior protection against extreme temperatures. Many people hate to wear bulky garments just to preserve a constant body temperature during winter. For them, cold resistant clothing represents the best option at hand, minimizing the impact of low temperatures on their health and welfare.

How could one possibly find the best fabrics and materials keeping the blistering wind at a respectable distance? Are you looking for pertinent advice coming from a good tailor? Follow these simple guidelines to make the most of beautiful, cold resistant clothing tailored to your needs, preferences, and financial possibilities.

Invest in durable, cold-resistant clothing items

Some of the best cold-resistant clothing elements have a similarly layered structure that enables them to win the battle with ridiculously low temperatures. A top-quality winter jacket considered 100% cold-resistant will always display at least three basic layers:

a) The foundation (also known as the jacket’s base core): This is the layer that comes in direct contact with your skin; therefore, the cold-resistant material should be delicate and soft. It should also absorb perspiration effectively and keep you dry and warm in any given set of circumstances.

In this case, synthetic materials with an elevated level of breathability are a great alternative and can even be treated to prevent the development of bacteria usually living in humid environments.

b) The second layer (also known as mid-insulation): Years ago, people used to wear cozy wool sweaters to fight the freezing cold. Now they have the opportunity to purchase and wear much more effective and comfortable clothing items with one or more layers of mid-insulation. The best modern insulation materials are polypropylene fleece and wool mix. One of the mid-insulation layers should be long enough to cover the entire upper body.

Here’s an extra tip: If you’re looking for some of the most remarkable insulation materials designed to protect your lower body, you should know that trousers made of moleskin or polyester are the perfect candidate for this job.

c) The shell layer (or the outer) of the jacket: It can come with a built-in insulation layer for increased protection against bad weather conditions. This last layer is extremely important and should display special features, like fasten-able cuffs and crannies, designed and implemented to prevent hot air from escaping outside the jacket and to stop snow from getting inside the cold resistant clothing piece.

How to find the best tailor

Are you having a hard time trying to identify the best cold resistant clothing pieces in department stores? Why don’t you invest in custom clothing items, made by a talented, experienced tailor? Consult TalkLocal now to be connected with the most reputable tailors in your area in record time. With the right clothes, you’ll never have to worry about incredibly low temperatures ever again.

Tags: clothing, cold resistant clothes, winter clothes
Posted in Tailors | No Comments »

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