In order to determine who is responsible
for a dog bite, it is necessary to establish who owned the dog. In California,
a dog owner is strictly liable for any dog bite regardless of whether he or she
failed to protect others from the attack, or had no reason to know the dog was
dangerous, provided that the victim was not trespassing or provoking the dog
In addition to the dog owner, other
individuals may be held liable for a dog bite including anyone who is
responsible for the care or custody of the dog such as a kennel, pound or
animal shelter. A property owner can also be held responsible if he or she
allowed the dog onto the property. Similarly, a landlord can be held liable for
an animal bite caused by a tenant’s dangerous pet.
Who is responsible?
In Maine, owners are legally responsible
(“liable”) for an animal bite. Even if the owner had no reason to believe that
his or her animal was dangerous, if the animal bit someone, the owner would
still be liable. A homeowner’s insurance policy, renter’s policy, or personal
assets can all be used to pay for your pain and suffering if the owner or
keeper of the animal is found responsible for your injuries.
Examples of valid animal injury cases where
someone other than the owner or keeper of the dog could be held liable:
The dog was under the care of
another individual, like a dog walker, kennel owner or groomer.
The dog’s owner or keeper is
under the age of 18.
The dog was on someone’s
property, other than the owner or keeper, and they did not take some type of
action to have the dog removed, they could be held liable for injuries that
someone receives.
For example, a 25-year old man
kept his Rottweiler at his grandparent’s home during the day in an unfenced
yard and left the dog unsupervised. The dog was known for harassing anyone
walking by the home and sometimes lunging at people and other dogs. While it
was owned by the adult grandson, the grandparents could be held legally liable
for an attack simply because the dog was living on their property during the
day.
Where do Dogs Stand?
As applied to dogs, the injured party must
show the dog’s owner’s awareness the pet engaged in prior similar acts that
showed its vicious nature. This does not
necessarily mean the dog had actually bitten or injured someone else
before. The injured party proves the
dog’s “vicious” through evidence it growled, snapped or bare its teeth. They can also show the manner they restrained
the dog or kept it as a guard dog. An
injured party can show the dog acted in a way that placed others at risk of
harm.
In past cases involving children, the
courts have dismissed lawsuits where the injured party cannot show the dog had
ever previously bitten anyone or exhibited aggressive behavior. Barking or growling without anything else is
insufficient proof. The court will look
at the facts and see whether the dog snapped or bared its teeth at the child.
The court looks at how an owner restrained the dog at home. It also considers
whether an owner trained the dog to guard the home.
What types of damages can I collect?
We can identify and document every possible
source of damages for your claim, and request compensation based on the maximum
value of your case. While damages vary based on the circumstances you endured,
some of the most common damages we can collect for our clients include:
Medical Costs
Even the most minor dog bites require
medical attention. More serious attack injuries require extensive cleaning and
careful attention to prevent further complications. The risk of infection is
high, and scarring is common. Bites on the face, neck, arms, and hands often
require closure by a plastic surgeon and follow-up care. The most serious bites
or infections may require amputation or lead to other permanent disabilities.
We make sure to request compensation for medical
bills, ongoing and future medical care costs, therapy expenses, and any other
expenses related to the treatment of your wounds.
Lost Wages
Major dog attacks could keep you away from
work for weeks, longer if you experience complications. We can collect
compensation based on the wages you missed, and wages you will likely miss out
on in the future if you cannot return to work due to your injuries. We may be
able to also claim lost benefits if you suffer from a disability that will
prevent you from ever returning to your previous position.
“Pain and Suffering” and Inconvenience
Dog bites cause immense pain and suffering,
and may lead to both physical and psychological scarring. We fight for full
compensation for these damages based on the severity of your injuries and your
actual monetary losses due to the accident. We can also recover damages for
your inconvenience (e.g., having to attend doctor’s appointments, missing your
child’s birthday party).
Punitive Damages
Occasionally, we need to file a personal
injury lawsuit to get the compensation our clients deserve in their dog bite
case. If your case heads to court, we might be able to persuade the judge or
jury to award punitive damages. It is important to note that an award of
punitive damages is rare and only occurs when the dog’s owner acted
particularly recklessly or maliciously.
Who Could Be Held Responsible if a Dog
Bites?
In order to pursue maximum compensation for
your dog bite injuries, our dedicated legal team will need to build a strong
case to prove who is at fault. Depending on the circumstances of your accident,
that at-fault party may be:
The owner of the dog
A dog sitter or someone
responsible for watching the dog
Dog walkers who may have been
negligent in their duties
As the name suggests, a garbage disposal is
for getting rid of – wait for it – garbage. While that might seem obvious,
what’s not as clear is what kind of garbage? You see, not all garbage is
created equally and while some items are well-suited for the garbage disposal,
other items are not. Before we discuss that, however, let’s take a closer look
at what a garbage disposal is and what it actually does.
How a Garbage Disposal Works
A garbage disposal is an electrically
powered device that is installed under a kitchen sink and sits between the
sink’s drain and the drain trap. When food and other debris goes down into the
garbage disposal, it passes through a shredder (some people refer to the teeth
of the shredder as blades) that work to grind the food up in pieces that are
small enough to continue down the drain and pass through the house’s plumbing
system.
Most garbage disposals last around 10 to 12
years, depending on how well you take care of it and more importantly, what you
put in it. If you abuse your garbage disposal by repeatedly sending items down
into it that you shouldn’t, you not only won’t get as much lifetime use out of
it, but you may cause some plumbing issues as well.
Items You Can Throw in the Garbage Disposal
Citrus rinds: It may surprise you to learn
that throwing the rinds of oranges and other citrus fruits into your garbage
disposal are actually good for it. They not only help to naturally clean your
disposal, they also leave it smelling nice and fresh.
Coffee grounds: There are some mixed
answers on this one, but we’re okay with you putting small amounts of coffee
grounds down your drain. Just don’t put a large amount, however, because it can
collect in the pipes and create a clog or backup. This is actually because of
the oil that is found in the coffee grounds.
Cooked meat scraps: Leftover meat scraps
from dinner are fine to put in the garbage disposal when you’re clearing off
the dinnerplates. Once again, no large amounts though or big chunks.
Most fruits and vegetables: Almost all
fruits are okay to toss in the garbage disposal and most vegetables are as
well. There are a few exceptions to this, which will discuss below.
Small bones: Bones are rather hard on a
garbage disposal and we would prefer that you throw them away rather than send
them down into the garbage disposal. That being said, if you do happen to drop
a small bone down into the garbage disposal, it’s usually no big deal and
should grind up without causing any problems.
Wet (canned) cat/dog food: It’s usually not
a problem in our house, but if your cat or dog leaves uneaten canned food in
their bowl, it’s perfectly find to dump it down the garbage disposal.
Items You Should Not Throw into the Garbage
Disposal
Artichokes: The leaves of an artichoke are
super tough and can easily get caught in the teeth of the shredder.
Asparagus: One of several fibrous materials
that are known to cause jamming problems and can shorten the lifespan of your
garbage disposal.
Banana peels: While a banana can pass
through a garbage disposal with no problem, a banana peel is super fibrous and
can wrap around the grinding teeth causing it to jam.
Corn husks: Another fibrous material that
can cause jamming problems, plus they cause your garbage disposal to have to
work really hard.
Egg shells: This is another one of those
items that people disagree on. While some people think that it helps to sharpen
the teeth of the grinder others believe they cause more harm than good. We like
to err on the safe side and say that you should just toss them or use them in
your compost pile.
Fruit Pits: Think of them like tiny rocks.
Best just to throw in the garbage, or better yet, compost them.
Grease: We don’t want you to pour grease or
anything else that is super fatty down your drain ever – even if you don’t have
a garbage disposal. All grease does is congeal and once it does, it creates a
big gooey mess that over time will clog your pipes. If you pour it down into
your garbage disposal, it will make the problem worse because all that grease
will be coating the grinding chamber and the teeth of the shredder.
Large bones: This will really wear out your
garbage disposal in a hurry. Don’t do it.
Nuts: Think about how peanut butter is
made. It’s a lot like that only the peanut butter you create will be sticking
to the shredder in your garbage disposal, making one big mess.
Onion skins: Just no.
Pasta and rice: You would think that since
pasta and rice are so soft, what could possibly be the harm. The problem is
that even when they are shredded into smaller pieces pasta and rice will
expand. They also become a sticky substance and that can clog your drain.
Potato Peels: They may make it through your
garbage disposal okay, but they are really starchy and not good for the drain.
Best to toss them or work them into your compost pile.
Shrimp shells: Not only are they hard on
the garbage disposal, shrimp shells can leave behind an unpleasant scent that
lingers. Trust us on this
Garbage disposal unit
A garbage disposal unit (also known as a
waste disposal unit, garbage disposer, garburator etc.) is a device, usually
electrically powered, installed under a kitchen sink between the sink’s drain
and the trap
History
The garbage disposal unit was invented in
1927 by John W. Hammes, an architect working in Racine, Wisconsin. He applied
for a patent in 1933 that was issued in 1935. His InSinkErator company put his
disposer on the market in 1940
In many cities in the United States in the
1930s and the 1940s, the municipal sewage system had regulations prohibiting
placing food waste (garbage) into the system. InSinkErator spent considerable
effort, and was highly successful in convincing many localities to rescind
these prohibitions
Adoption
In the United States, some 50% of homes had
disposal units as of 2009, compared with only 6% in the United Kingdom and 3%
in Canada. In Sweden, some municipalities encourage the installation of
disposers so as to increase the production of biogas. Some local authorities in
Britain subsidize the purchase of garbage disposal units in order to reduce the
amount of waste going to landfill.
Rationale
Food scraps range from 10% to 20% of
household waste, and are a problematic component of municipal waste, creating
public health, sanitation and environmental problems at each step, beginning
with internal storage and followed by truck-based collection. Burned in
waste-to-energy facilities, the high water-content of food scraps means that
their heating and burning consumes more energy than it generates; buried in
landfills, food scraps decompose and generate methane gas, a greenhouse gas
that contributes to climate change.
THINGS YOU SHOULD NEVER PUT DOWN YOUR
GARBAGE DISPOSAL
Garbage disposals were invented for a
reason: they’re a quick and easy way to clean up the kitchen and dispose of
excess materials. Most garbage disposals, however have limits on what they can
and cannot dispose of. When it comes to your sink, prevention is the best
medicine, and adopting good habits is the best way to keep your sink clean and
disposal functioning. Next time you’re cleaning your kitchen, think twice
before putting these things down the garbage disposal.
Coffee Grounds
Disposing of your coffee grounds in your
garbage disposal should be avoided. While it seems like a quick solution to
throw them down the drain, coffee grounds can get stuck in your garbage
disposal and cause a costly backup. One pot of coffee per morning down your
disposal can cause a back up quickly. To avoid fighting with your sink and
annoying backups, compost or throw away your coffee grounds.
Celerey, asparagus, corn husks and the
likes
While some vegetables can go down your
garbage disposal no problem, others can back it up and cause sizable problems.
Vegetables that have long fibers such as celery, asparagus and corn husks all
fall into this category. These fibers can get tied up in the blades of your
garbage disposal, so throwing them away, or even better composting them, is the
best solution.
Egg Shells
When you make your morning omelette, don’t
make it a habit to throw your eggshells in the garbage disposal. The inner
membrane within egg shells can get wrapped up in the blades of your disposal
making it dull and stuck. Enjoy your eggs, but if you don’t like clogs, keep
them out of your disposal.
Rice and Pasta
While ideal for stir fries, spaghetti,
curry, and more, rice and pasta should be kept out of your garbage disposal.
Because both foods expand in water, they can increase in size in your disposal.
This causes a gross gooey mess in your sink and can cause your drain. Rather
than spending your evening fighting with your sink, enjoy your Chicken Tikka
Masala but don’t put the leftover rice down the disposal.
Do’ and Don’ts for Your Garbage Disposal
Garbage disposals are an appliance that
provides many conveniences to our kitchen. What do you do with that week old,
leftover pasta sauce or soup that you found in the back of your fridge? It’s
easy to dump liquid foods down the sink just to get rid of it quickly.
Unfortunately, improper use of your garbage disposal can often lead to ugly
problems. By following a few simple rules you can avoid these problems, like
unwanted odors or the garbage disposal not draining properly in your apartment.
Here are our do’s and don’ts for your garbage disposal.
The basics
While your specific garbage disposal may be
able to grind and dispose of more than just liquid food, it doesn’t mean it’s
always a good idea. Most cities’ plumbing systems are not built to handle large
amounts of food waste. There are some things that should never be put down any
garbage disposal because you will run the risk of clogging pipes or other
future garbage disposal problems. Proper use and regular cleaning will keep
your garbage disposal in working order and keep the plumbing pipes clear and
grease-free.
Do’s
Put a slice of citrus fruit down the drain
and run the disposal with the water running to eliminate odors. Try a quarter
of a lemon, lime or grapefruit—make sure to include the peel.
Use your disposal in moderation. It’s designed
for breaking up small food particles, not large amounts of food.
Always run cold water before, during and
after use.
Check the drain for fallen items like
spoons, bottle caps and other small things before running the disposal. If you
find something, use tongs to extract it out of the drain.
Contact your apartment‘s maintenance team
if any issues arise.
Don’ts
Don’t put your hand in the garbage disposal
to retrieve fall items.
Don’t pour grease or fat from food down the
disposal.
Don’t grind anything other than food
scraps.
Don’t put coffee grounds, egg shells or
potato peels down the disposal.
Don’t run hot water through your disposal
as it can cause clogs.
Cleaning
Cleaning your garbage disposal is probably
not something you think of when cleaning your apartment, but it should be!
Luckily, there is nothing special that you need to buy to keep your disposal
clean—you can use natural, everyday items that you probably already own. Here
are a few easy ways to clean your garbage disposal.
KITCHEN GARBAGE DISPOSAL REPAIR: DO’S AND
DON’TS
The dispatch line rang and our customer
service representative answered, ready to help with any plumbing-related issue.
“I need to get an octopus out of the drain,” a voice muttered.
“Okay, we’ll be happy to help,” the
representative cheerfully responded and promptly sent a plumbing tech to
wrangle the animal and inspect the disposal for damage. is an ocean-lover’s
paradise and while that fresh, live octopus will make an amazing calamari dish
– the octopus might not agree with your plans.
Garbage Disposer Don’ts
Once upon a time, our grandparents lived
without garbage disposals. This is probably more shocking to some than an
octopus in the drain.
However, there are some items that should
never go down the garbage disposal.
Grease and fats: Often the problem with
grease, fats and cooking oil is that they create problems further down the
waste disposal system. They solidify, making sludge and create clogs. Do not
send grease and other fats down the drain, not even with hot water/soap.
Bones and Fruit Pits: This should be common
sense, but it is a frequently seen problem for plumbing service appointments
where garbage disposals fail. They can damage the blades or just don’t ever get
broken down, creating a mass of items to block the sink drain.
Rice, Pasta and Coffee Grounds: This is one
that isn’t as much common sense as others. You might see these “digestible or
dissolvable” items. But, what happens in the garbage disposal is detrimental to
the appliance. As these mix with water and other foods, it becomes sludge that
can jam the blades, slowing or limiting rotation.
Celery, Carrot or Potato Peels: Celery has
very long and strong fibers throughout the stalk that can tangle in the motor
of the blades. Asparagus and corn husks provide the same risk. The same for
carrot or potato peels.
Egg Shells, Shellfish and Fish Scales:
There is some debate as to whether egg shells are bad for the garbage disposal,
with some people saying there is no harm and the grinding of the shells actually
helps sharpen blades. There are other ways to sharpen the blades without having
slimy linings potentially stick and clog the shredder.
Do’s for Garbage Disposal Health
Dishwasher Use: Dinner clean up is much
easier with a dishwasher. Make sure the dishwasher hookup properly drains into
the sink and don’t just let the waste flow down the sink drain. Rinse plates
before you put them in the dishwasher to make sure excess food and taboo junk
doesn’t make it down the drain (or jam the dishwasher).
Cold Water: Use cool or cold water when
running the kitchen faucet and garbage disposal to make sure any grease on
plates and dishes isn’t liquefied. You don’t want it to later become a solid
deep down in the pipeline of your plumbing and drain system.
Waste Trap: Use a mesh drain strainer that
you can buy at your favorite Point Loma, Mission Hills, or and other local San
Diego housewares store to collect food, skins, peels, and bones before they go
down the drain. Then, throw them out.
Clean the System: Use a homemade drain
cleaning solution to help reduce grime, much and sludge build up. A quick DIY
utilizes baking soda, vinegar, and lemon to break down sludge and deodorize the
appliance. Some folks will actually mix ice cube with the lemon and vinegar to
help sharpen blades while cleaning.
Stop and Clear: If you find an octopus or
anything else that is the core problem for your sink drain and garbage disposal
problem, turn it off, unplug it and work to remove whatever it is that’s
blocking or clogging the system. If this isn’t something you are comfortable
with, make an appointment with your local plumbing service.
If you’re considering updating the flooring
in your home, you have a lot of options! You can put in carpet, tile, hardwood,
laminate, or just stain the concrete. A good, durable yet affordable option is
laminate flooring. Laminate flooring has come a long way from that lovely
orangish pattern everyone had in the 80s. Modern laminate floors can actually
imitate the surface that they look like!
Board thickness
The thicker the laminate, the more
realistic it looks. Thicker laminate is also much more durable. At a minimum,
you want it to be 8mm thick. A good, high quality flooring will be anywhere
between 8 and 12mm thick. You definitely don’t want a paper thin flooring, as
it will wear away quickly and it will be much harder on your feet
Atmosphere of the room
What do you want to accomplish with your
new flooring? Do you want the room to feel bigger? If so, aim for laminate with
wide planks or light colors to brighten up the space and make it feel larger.
Conversely – dark, dense patterns will make the room more cozy.
Foot traffic
Are you having the new laminate installed
in a very high foot traffic area? Is it a place where children and pets will
enter – possibly tracking in dirt? Consider the footwear of the people moving
through the room, as well as the location in the home. And keep in mind that
while dark-colored laminates will show less dirt, pet hair stands out against
dark floors. A nice wood laminate would balance both of these issues nicely. A
textured stone laminate is also a great option.
Attached rooms
When you’re only replacing the flooring in
one or two rooms, take a look at the surrounding flooring. You don’t want to
choose a laminate that clashes against your existing floors. Pick a color that matches
or compliments the attached rooms.
WATERPROOF LAMINATE FLOORING BUYING GUIDE
Good news, the affordable laminate floors
you love now feature waterproof capabilities! But before you deck out your home
in waterproof laminate flooring, it’s important to understand how this feature
works. Keep reading to learn what you’re getting with waterproof laminate
flooring and to find the best product for your application.
We get it – you love the idea of putting
laminate flooring in your home. You can’t stop thinking about how gorgeous the
dark espresso color looked in your sister-in-law’s living room, somehow
scratch-free even with her dog’s clattering claws running all over it.
But your kids aren’t that pristine. Maybe
you even have a track record of spilling. Juice boxes, milk cartons, dishwater
– you’re tired of seeing the results of those disasters on your existing
floors. Yet, you know that laminate is not known for its water-resistant
properties, so what do you do?
That’s right, waterproof and water-resistant
laminate products are hitting the market, making this traditional wood-look
floor even more irresistible. Now you can install this affordable flooring in
more rooms of the home – like the kitchen or bathroom – with confidence that it
will withstand the mess of the everyday chaos.
What is Waterproof Laminate Flooring?
Laminate flooring is a type of synthetic
floor that first made a splash on the flooring market in the 1970s as the first
man-made alternative to natural wood. This floor quickly grew more popular as
manufacturers created increasingly realistic looks that could easily pass for
real hardwood.
EXPANSION JOINTS IN LAMINATE FLOORING
Laminate flooring consists to about 90% of
wood. Being a natural organic material, wood is always in motion. It’s a common
saying that “wood works”. What this means is the wood expands or contracts (or
grows and shrinks) in response to changing temperatures and humidity. So the
same thing applies to laminate flooring. A metre of laminate flooring can undergo
dimensional fluctuations of about a millimetre. This is what makes it so
important to leave a gap of 10mm where the panels abut walls, door frames,
pipes and so forth. If this isn’t done, the material can suffer damage as a
result of buckling, warping and so on. The tongue-and-groove joints can also
suffer, and all this may void the terms of the warranty.
Extra Expansion Joints: Absolutely
Essential in Large Rooms
The gap around the edges of the floor,
which are camouflaged by skirting boards, doesn’t allow enough play in large
rooms. If a room is wider than 8 metres and/or longer than 12 metres, one or
more additional expansion joints are needed in the middle.
How to Create and Cover Expansion Joints
To create an expansion joint in the middle
of the floor, leave a gap between two adjacent panels instead of clicking them
together as usual. So-called “transition profiles” can be obtained in DIY
markets and specialised supply stores for covering these gaps. These are
appropriately sized to visually disguise them. It’s a good idea to inquire
about the kinds of profiles that are available before installing your laminate
floor.
Nowadays you can take advantage of a huge
range of transition profiles with different surfaces and in various colours to
ensure that they perfectly match the décor of your laminate floor. Depending on
the profile, the distance between the double-rail in the middle and the panel
on each side of it should be at least 10mm. So if the rails are 5mm apart, the
expansion joint will have a total width of 25mm. Spacers of the right size also
come in very handy. After inserting a gap with a profile, you continue laying
the laminate panels like at the start, i.e. beginning with a “first row”.
We recommend that you take the same
approach when a laminate floor extends across more than one room. At the
transition between two adjacent rooms, you face essentially the same situation
as before. Transition profiles should also be inserted at door frames and where
laminate meets another kind of floor covering.
So Cheap & Easy! Homemade Cleaner For
Laminate Flooring
We recently had gorgeous laminate installed
in our living room and I just had to take the opportunity to ask the installer
what he recommended for washing it.
Although it’s much easier to care for than
real wood flooring and I’ve had it for years in other parts of the house, I
want to take extra care to maintain the high gloss that this one has (it would
be a shame for it to dull over time or be plagued with streaks from washing).
Directions:
Regularly use a soft brush attachment on
the vacuum or a swiffer style tool for picking up dirt and hair. Sweep or
vacuum in the direction that the pieces are laid so that you pick up all the
crud between the grooves instead of trapping it (especially if it’s
mock-hardwood style that has the grooves between each “plank”).
Mix a couple quick squirts of gentle liquid
dish detergent in a pail of warm water. Wring out the mop well so there won’t
be any water dripping then damp mop the surface. No special cleaner/fluid
required!
My sister-in-law has this tried and true
recipe that she finds will give a streak-free result. Is it better than the
above? Well the vinegar does help cut the streaking and adds a little extra
muscle.
Here’s The Recipe:
1/2 cup of vinegar
1 to 2 squirts of liquid dish detergent
Bucketful of warm water (about a gallon)
Did You Know:
Many manufacturers require that only their
brand of cleaners are used or the warranty on the flooring is voided. On one
hand I understand it (For example: if bleach was used to hose things
down–should you really be eligible for all new product under the warranty?),
but on the other hand–total ripoff considering there are suitable solutions
that are cheap and effective (you’re locked into buying their product for the
lifetime of the warranty–which can be up to 30 or 50 years for some brands).
LIVE BETTER WITH LAMINATE
Laminate flooring from Logoclic proves its
worth in many ways
Whether for your bedroom, living room or
even for your bathroom, laminate flooring from Logoclic is the ideal foundation
for your home! you will find a comprehensive selection of laminate flooring in
differing styles, from real wood to tile in appearance. And all of laminate
flooring has these things in common: high durability, ease of cleaning and a
high degree of individuality, all coming together to create a pleasant
environment in your home
Here are some of the major advantages of
laminate flooring:
Robust: laminate offers high strength and
is scratch, dent and wear resistant.
Natural: The natural look and feel of
laminate flooring will give your living room the ambience you desire.
Straightforward: From installation – thanks
to the simple click-system – to maintenance,
laminate flooring is easy.
Heat resistant: Laminate flooring from is
fire resistant.
Hypoallergenic: Laminate offers no place
for dust and dust mites to hide, so this type of flooring is ideal for allergy
sufferers.
Colourfast: laminate is UV resistant –
sunlight causes no discolouration.
Guaranteed: offers a full 30-year warranty
on your laminate flooring!
low price and high quality
Laminate flooring from is environmentally
friendly and sustainable. This type of laminate is made from 90 percent waste
wood, which Logoclic sources from forest preservation and maintenance projects
to ensure a low impact on the environment. Nature even plays an important role
in the design of these laminate products.
Feel good about Laminate – from insulation
to baseboards
not only offers a comprehensive range of
laminate flooring, but also any accessories that you might need for the
installation and maintenance of laminate flooring. Find out more about the best
underlay for your project, the correct cleaning agent for your flooring, and
which height profiles and baseboards best suit your needs.
Do you have questions about laminate?
What do I do with surface scratches? How do
I clean the laminate? Which underlay do I need? What do the different wear
classifications mean? For all of these questions and many more
A good sofa set furnishes the living room well and provides
unsurpassed comfort to its users. However, sofas require regular professional
cleaning services in order to maintain its comfort and beauty. It not only
prolongs the lifespan of the sofa, it also makes it a healthier place to be at
without all the dirt and germs.
Steam heat extraction
Steam heat extraction utilizes high temperature steam heat
extraction technology to remove dust and all other unhealthy particles from the
surface of the sofa. This method removes excess moisture together with dirt and
dust, ensuring that there will not be any wet or soggy after effect. As a
result, fabric shrinkage is significantly reduced and the entire sofa can be cleaned
in just a couple of hours. This method is also more financially economical as
compared to other methods and ensures for the best possible cleaning.
Carbonation cleaning
Carbonating cleaning simulates natural cleaning by Mother
Nature and it ensures that the sofa is left in a just bought condition. The
entire cleaning takes only 4 to 6 hours. Only a small amount of carbonating
cleaning solutions with an effervescent effect is used, which are only a tenth
of what steam cleaning requires. Less water is also required. Millions of
carbonating bubbles are small enough to penetrate into the fibers, removing
grime and dirt. They then lift these to the surface where they are easily wiped
away. Not only that, it leaves a protective barrier on the surface, minimizing
future accumulation of dirt and grime.
Chemical cleaning
Chemically safe products which are safe on all types of
fabrics including leather are used. A unique dry shampoo encapsulation method
which effectively removes dirt and embedded particles are used and minimal
drying time is required. In fact, you can almost immediately sit down after the
sofa cleaning is completed.
Foam cleaning
A foam solution is applied by hand onto the sofa and they
are worked onto stains and allowed to rest for a short period of time.
Subsequently, the area is vacuum cleaned and the result is a clean and fresh
smelling sofa. Since the amount of foam can be controlled by the user, the
chances of moisture damage are lower and are a common choice by consumers.
Dry cleaning
This is a method similar to foam cleaning without the usage
of water. A chemical cleaning powder is sprinkled around the fabric and it is
worked onto the stain. After which, the powder are vacuum up and the result is
a clean sofa. Since no water is used in this cleaning method, it can be used on
wood materials and there is no down time required for drying.
There are many different methods available on the market now
and the consumers are spoilt for choice. Depending on their budget and whether
the cleaning is an urgent one, they can choose their desired method and
continue to use their beloved sofa for an even longer period of time.
How to Clean a Fabric Sofa with a Steamer
What you’ll need:
An upholstery steam cleaner. Make sure before using that the
manufacturer’s recommendations state it is safe for a fabric couch. Note, too,
that just because your sofa is water-safe doesn’t make it heat-safe. As with
other types of cleaners, always test spot an area before going full-steam
(pun-intended)!
What to do:
Read the manual. There’s a reason why a steam
cleaner comes with instructions. Read them carefully before beginning.
Vacuum first. Vacuuming your sofa – or anything,
for that matter – before cleaning makes it a whole lot easier to clean it.
Dirt, dust and other loose particles won’t get in the way and will give your
steam cleaner a clean canvas to work from.
Keep the air circulated. Turn on a fan and open
all the windows in the room for a strong cross breeze. This will help to keep
the air circulation strong, preventing moisture buildup and residue.
Spot test an area first. This step is so
important, it bears repeating. Pick a small hidden spot to test the cleaner,
such as the back or the inside of the sofa’s skirt (if it has one, and if the
inside material is made of the same fabric as the outside of the sofa).
Let the sofa air dry. Don’t sit on the sofa
while it’s still wet. Keep the windows open to help dry out the room. Be aware
that it may take leaving the sofa untouched overnight for it to fully dry.
Vacuum last. Vacuuming again, once you’ve
steamed the upholstery, will help ensure that any dirt that was loosened by the
cleaner gets removed. Just remember to wait until the sofa is completely dry
before vacuuming!
COMMON CARPET AND UPHOLSTERY CLEANING TECHNIQUES USED BY PROFESSIONALS
Regular vacuuming is useful for cleaning on the surface.
However, there are many stains on carpets and upholstery that cannot be simply
vacuumed away. Professionals are needed to apply more advanced tools and techniques
to clean at and beneath the surface level. The following are a few, common
cleaning methods that are used by Fox Valley Carpet Cleaning’s technicians in
Aurora and Naperville.
Hot Water Extraction
Hot water extraction is one of the most popular methods of
carpet cleaning. For many property owners, it’s the most effective way to clean
carpets and furniture at the deepest levels. The process starts by pre-treating
the area with a cleaning solution that penetrates the fibers. Then, hot water
is inserted into the fibers and extracted through a high pressure vacuum.
Water Usage
Preventing problems is a major aspect of floor or upholstery
cleaning. Over-saturation occurs when too much water is applied to the area
being cleaned. Some people think that using more water increases the
effectiveness of removing stains. In reality, it just requires more power to
remove the water and it takes longer to dry the area.
Brushing
Brushing helps to remove the stains that lie on the surface
and deep within the fibers. It’s optional, but it increases the penetration of
the cleaning agents that remove stains. After brushing, the solution is left to
soak into the fibers for at least 10 minutes or more.
Spot Cleaning
Spot cleaning is the work of removing the biggest and most
deeply ingrained stains. It involves using a highly concentrated solution and
scrubbing the stain off using a hard bristle brush. This technique works for
either carpet or upholstery cleaning; however, upholstery comes in different
materials, so the cleaning solution must be safe to use on the material.
Stain Diagnosis
People who do not clean for a living are not familiar with
stains. There are different types of stains that require different types of
cleaning methods to remove. Removing blood effectively is not the same as
removing paint, and some stains if left too much cannot be removed at all.
How to Clean and Maintain Different Types of Upholstery
No matter how much effort you put in cleaning and
maintaining your armchairs or sofa, accidents happen. When spill occurs the
time of reaction is of essence. In fact, upholstered furniture is bound to get
dirty from general use over time – that’s inevitable! Stains, dirt and
accumulated dust can make the fabric look worn out and scruffy.
Learning how to clean and maintain your furniture is
important if you want to keep it looking beautiful, clean and well cared of.
This is why we’ve gathered some useful tips on cleaning the most common types
of upholstery fast and effective.
How to Clean Different Fabrics
There are some pretty common rules when it comes to clean
upholstered furniture. Regular vacuuming is a must to avoid dust setting deeply
into fabric and stuffing. Spot treatment is the best way to remove spills,
before they become stubborn stains. But the similarities end here.
Different upholstery fabrics require different care. Knowing
how to deal with the specific kind can help you avoid shrinking or colour
bleeding and get impeccable results when cleaning your furniture.
Synthetic Upholstery
Fabrics made of synthetic fibres, such as acrylic,
polyester, nylon or olefin, are generally easy to clean. They stand water well
and you can use any type of water-based cleaning product. If the upholstery is
removable you can even put it in your laundry machine. However it is always
smart to check the label on your furniture to see if there are any instructions
for specific treatment or product. If not sure what to do just test the
cleaning product on a small, inconspicuous area to see if there is shrinkage or
discoloration. If these occur, stop and try another furniture cleaning agent.
Natural Upholstery
Some types of upholstery are made of 100% natural fibres,
most often cotton and wool, but sometimes silk, velvet or linen. Typically
natural fabrics retain a lot of water so wet cleaning is not a good idea,
however steam cleaning can be appropriate. Generally, you can clean these types
of fabrics by yourself unless the label says otherwise. When you clean natural
upholstery you will do fine with water-based product, but be moderate when
applying it. Too much moist can cause shrinking or ‘water rings’.
Combined Upholstery
Very often upholstery fabric is combination of natural and
man-made fibres. Usually cotton or wool are blended 50/50 with some synthetic
threads. The safest option when dealing with blended fabrics is to hire
professional upholstery cleaners in London. Combined fabrics usually require
special treatment to avoid shrinking or other damage, unless the label
specifies their DIY cleaning method.
Microfibre Upholstery
Microfibre is beautiful, durable and easy to maintain
fabric. In this type of upholstery a tiny area consist of large amount of
fibres. This stops the dirt from penetrating deep into the fabric. Usually
scrubbing off the dirt with brush and vacuuming should be enough to remove the
stain. For spot cleaning check the manufacturer label to select the best
product for your microbibre upholstery.
Leather
Usually leather needs only wiping from the dust and dirt and
occasional conditioning to keep it elastic and smooth. If however you have to
deal with stain on you leather upholstery you should consider hiring
professional company to treat the spot.
NB! When cleaning your upholstery, you should try to avoid
getting liquids and cleaning agents to frames, legs or armrests of the
furniture. These metal or wooden parts can corrode, rust, change color and even
stain the upholstery and this definitely is a problem you don’t want to deal
with.
Chronic dry eye is a condition where your
eyes either don’t produce enough tears, or they produce low quality tears. It
can be uncomfortable and cause symptoms like a gritty sensation in your eyes or
redness. The severity of dryness varies from person to person. If you have a
milder case of dry eye, you might shrug it off. But if it’s not going away or
seems to be getting worse, it’s time to seek further treatment. Tears are
necessary for eye health. They lubricate your eyes and wash away debris that
can cause irritation. If left untreated, dry eye can progress and cause
complications that affect the quality of your life.
Here’s a look at a few complications that
can occur if you aren’t properly treating chronic dry eye.
Corneal ulcer
A corneal ulcer is an open sore that
develops on your cornea, which is the clear, protective outer layer of your
eyes. These ulcers typically occur after an injury, but severely dry eyes can
also play a role.
Debris like dirt and other particles can
sometimes get into your eyes. If your tear glands don’t produce enough tears,
your eyes might be unable to wash the particles away.
Debris can then scratch the surface of your
cornea. If bacteria gets into the scratch, an infection can develop, causing an
ulcer. Corneal ulcers are treatable with antibiotic eye drops. But if left
untreated, these ulcers can spread and scar the eyeball, causing partial or
complete blindness.
Conjunctivitis
Untreated dry eye can also lead to inflammation
of the conjunctiva. This is the clear layer of cells that cover the white part
of your eyeball and the inner surface of your eyelids.
This type of inflammation is known as
conjunctivitis. Symptoms include redness, light sensitivity, and a gritty feeling
in the eyes. This type of conjunctivitis is different from bacterial
conjunctivitis. It’s usually milder and doesn’t require treatment, although you
should see an eye doctor for inflammation that doesn’t improve or worsens.
Decreased tear production
Dry eyes can occur when you’re unable to
produce enough tears. The medical term for this condition is
keratoconjunctivitis sicca (ker-uh-toe-kun-junk-tih-VY-tis SIK-uh). Common
causes of decreased tear production include:
Aging
Certain medical conditions, including diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, scleroderma, Sjogren’s syndrome, thyroid disorders and vitamin A deficiency
Certain medications, including antihistamines, decongestants, hormone replacement therapy, antidepressants, and drugs for high blood pressure, acne, birth control and Parkinson’s disease
Laser eye surgery, though symptoms of dry eyes related to this procedure are usually temporary
Tear gland damage from inflammation or radiation
Increased tear evaporation
Common causes of increased tear evaporation
include:
Wind, smoke or dry air
Blinking less often, which tends to occur when you’re concentrating, for example, while reading, driving or working at a computer
Eyelid problems, such as out-turning of the lids (ectropion) and in-turning of the lids (entropion)
7 ways to treat and prevent
it
When left untreated, dry eye can cause
light sensitivity and blurred vision. Furthermore, under lubricated eyes
are more susceptible to scratches or infection.
So how do you treat it?
The following home remedies are good first steps:
Use a humidifier
Wear glasses instead of contacts
Take frequent breaks when staring at computer or TV screens
Sleep for at least eight hours each night
Avoid smoke
Wear sunglasses or a hat
Drink at least six glasses of water per day
If you try those but your dry eye persists,
consider an over-the-counter eye
lubricant drop. These come in the form of gels or ointments and can
provide immediate relief.
If you still experience trouble after that,
contact your physician. He or she can provide you with prescription-strength eye drops or,
if necessary, discuss surgical options with you. This might include an
outpatient procedure to provide punctal plugs, which temporarily
close the small duct where tears drain from the eye.
Viral pink eye vs. bacterial pink eye
A virus that causes viral pink eye can
spread from your nose to your eyes, or you can catch it when someone sneezes or
coughs and the droplets come in contact with your eyes.
Bacteria cause bacterial pink eye. Usually
the bacteria spreads to your eyes from your respiratory system or skin. You can
also catch bacterial pink eye if you:
touch your eye with unclean hands
apply makeup that’s been contaminated with bacteria
share personal items with someone who has pink eye
Both types of pink eye often start during
an upper respiratory infection, such as a cold (virus) or sore throat (virus or
bacteria).
Both viral and bacterial pink eye cause the
same general symptoms, including:
pink or red color in the white of the eyes
tearing
itchy or scratchy feeling in the eye
swelling
burning or irritation
crusting of the eyelids or lashes, especially in the morning
discharge from the eye
Here are a few ways to tell which type of
pink eye you have.
Viral pink eye:
usually starts in one eye but can spread to the other eye
starts with a cold or other respiratory infection
causes watery discharge from the eye
Bacterial pink eye:
can start with a respiratory infection or an ear infection
affects one or both eyes
causes a thick discharge (pus) that makes the eyes stick together
Your healthcare provider can tell whether
you’ve got a bacterial or a viral infection by taking a sample of the discharge
from your eye and sending it to a lab for testing.
Treatment for Eye Infections
Obviously, bacteria cause bacterial
infections, and viruses cause different viral infections. The treatments differ
depending on whether you have a bacterial or viral infection.
Bacterial infections are often treated with
antibiotics, which can kill the bacteria or stop it from multiplying.
Antibiotics will not work for viral infections.
Instead, the symptoms of the virus are
usually treated directly. There are some antiviral medicines that can stop the
virus from reproducing. Certain vaccines can prevent viral infections from
occurring in the first place, such as the vaccine for influenza.
Many of the common bacterial infections of
the eye will readily clear up once you are prescribed an antibiotic or some
other treatment like eye drops. Some of the more common viral eye infections
may resolve on their own, but they may require antiviral eye drops or even
steroids to reduce inflammation.
Modern electrical panels are properly
designed and safe, however homes with electrical panels (also known as circuit
boxes) installed as recently as the 1980s may contain components that have
deteriorated, because of the components that were in use at that time. Your
electrical panel may have become unsafe with age and may pose safety issues for
you and your family. Old electrical panels have limitations on available space
to add circuits or they may have fuses. Some home insurance policies will not
insure a property that has fuses.
However, this is not the only reason why
your electrical panel may need to be upgraded if you are:
Renovating of your home, particularly the
kitchen, which is appliance-heavy.
You are adding a home addition.
The addition of a major appliance, such as
central heating and air, stoves, spas, garage power equipment, and more.
You need/are adding outlets to your home.
To meet homeowners insurance requirements.
You’re in need of a 240 volt circuit.
You need to add a sub panel
Electrical Panel Upgrades
Updating the electrical panel in your home
can greatly improve the safety and effectiveness of the entire electrical
system. Power originating from the utility company travels to your home directly
to the electrical panel. From there, the current travels throughout your home,
providing power wherever you need it. At Dalcon Electric, our San Jose
electricians can repair or upgrade your electrical panel unit for you in a
timely fashion
Consider upgrading your panel if you:
Cannot properly run appliances within your
home
Notice that your circuit breaker frequently
malfunctions
Notice that your lights randomly dim or do
not work properly
Surefire Signs It’s Time To Upgrade Your
Electrical Panel
Your electrical panel is hub of your home’s
electrical system. It receives the electricity coming in through your meter and
distributes it to the outlets, appliances and light fixtures in your home. It
also monitors the amount of electricity going to each place, giving more to
higher energy users and less to lights and appliances not in use. It’s even
able to detect when a circuit has too much electric current being pulled from
it and kill the power to that circuit.
In other words, it’s one of the most
important fire safety mechanisms in your home. So it’s vital that you make sure
it’s up to code and working safely. An old or insufficient electrical panel
won’t be able to effectively power your home or protect it against electrical
fires. Be sure that your panel is safe by checking that it doesn’t show these
five signs of needing an upgrade.
Your Home Has A Fuse Box
Fuse boxes and fuses aren’t necessarily an
immediate fire hazard, but they are quite outdated. Homes haven’t been built
with fuse boxes since the 1950s, and if your home is still using one its
electrical infrastructure likely isn’t able to properly meet the electrical
demands of a 2010s family. Because of this, many insurance companies won’t
cover homes with fuse boxes. If your home uses fuses and a fuse box, Doug’s can
help you upgrade to circuit breakers and an electrical panel.
You’re Doing a Major Renovation
Changing your floorplan—from adding rooms
to simply rearranging the existing layout—means making significant changes to
your electrical system. Whether you’re keeping it small by installing
additional outlets or building on a whole new wing, your existing electrical
panel may not have the ability to accommodate the additional electrical output.
Upgrading to a newer, expanded panel will allow your home to function better
with all the electricity it needs
You Use Tons of Extension Cords
Extension cords are useful for giving your
vacuum cleaner the range to do a whole floor rather than a room at a time, but
you shouldn’t use them in place of properly-wired outlets. If your home doesn’t
have enough outlets, it’s probably because you have an outdated electrical
panel without the ability to support more outlets. Rather than risk causing a
fire with a daisy chain of extension cords, call Doug’s to upgrade your
electrical panel.
Electrical Panel Upgrades
An increasing number of our commercial
clients have been told by their insurance agent that they cannot switch to a
more affordable insurance policy because of their current electrical panel. And
an even larger number of insurance companies will not write a homeowners
insurance policy based on an outdated electrical panel.
It is a possibility that you don’t have a
panel with circuit breakers, but instead have an outdated fuse box. In some
cases, it is even worse: an electrical panel that has lost its UL approval
because it has been found to cause fires.
Circuit breakers are designed to shut off
in a fraction of a second if there is ever a problem. They keep you and your
family from becoming victims of electric shock and house fires. Many older
breakers will not trip under a test load for at least one minute, and some
won’t even trip at all.
If you need an upgrade to your electrical
panel for your home, call Best Electric Service today. One of our licensed and
experienced electricians will gladly come to your home and give you a complete
evaluation
Get peace of mind that you’re getting the
most out of your home’s electrical system and help avoid electrical hazards by
having a new panel or load-center installed in your home. Your loved one’s
safety is so important.
Wenatchee Electrical Services
Electricity is probably the utility that
adds the most convenience to our lives, but it is also one of the most
dangerous if it is not given the proper respect. When homeowners in Wenatchee,
WA have power outages or other issues with their electrical system, it’s
important to have access to a qualified Wenatchee electrician to find a
solution.
you can expect safe and timely electrical
repair service and installation, plus stellar customer service with every call.
When you work with us, there is never a need to worry about hidden costs added
to your bill because we feature flat-rate pricing on all services
Signs You Need Electrical Repair Service
Electrical repairs can come in a variety of
shapes and sizes; some are minor and don’t really affect any part of your home
while others affect the entire house. Some of the signs that indicate you may
need the help of residential electrical contractors include broken or damaged
wall sockets, flickering lights, a scorched smell near sockets, inconsistent
performance, short circuits, sparks, and if you have older wiring in your home
that hasn’t been updated in a long time. When you call us for electrical wiring
repair, you can expect a quick and safe solution.
Do I Need an Electrical Panel Upgrade?
The electrical panel for your home is
typically in your basement or garage, containing circuit breakers or fuses that
work to keep all your electrical outlets supplied with power. If your
electrical panel is older and has been experiencing tripped circuits or blown
fuses on a consistent basis, then it may be time for an electrical panel
upgrade or electrical panel replacement. You may also need an upgrade if you
need surge protection, or if you find that your electrical appliances outnumber
the available outlets in the house.
Risks of DIY Electrical Repairs
Just because you may be handy around the
house, doesn’t mean you should try your hand at electrical troubleshooting and
repair. In fact, one mistake during the process could cost you your life, or
start a fire that destroys your home and endangers your family. You could also
run into legal problems if your electrical repair service hasn’t been properly
inspected. At the least, your insurance claims will be denied, and you’ll be on
the hook for medical expenses and property damage. Do yourself a favor and call
a professional Wenatchee electrician right from the start.
How To Choose The Best Outdoor Lighting For
Your Home
Security and Safety
The first and most important goal of
outdoor lighting is for safety and security. This is achieved by illuminating
your front entrance, pathways, and stairs, as well as the darkest corners of
your property. All of these areas should be considered when designing an
effective lighting plan, as well as making sure your plan can be built upon as
time, budget, and exterior space allow.
Choosing Your Style
Once the dream plan is done, the usual
starting point would be the outdoor lanterns and path lighting to greet your
guests. Choosing a look which complements the style of your home’s façade and
your existing door hardware is the most creative part of choosing your outdoor
fixtures. Personally, I like to mix it up and have fun with my styles and
colors, and make my own rules. For example, a stainless steel finish with an
ornate design is unusual, and definitely sets apart your style from your
neighbor’s. It is easy to choose a style
that suits you with the many outdoor lighting options and many combinations of
colors and textures in stone and siding materials these days. If you like to
keep it simple, many lights come in collections, where different types of
fixtures all come with the same design and finish.
When selecting the lanterns for your
exterior lighting there are many factors that need to be taken into
consideration, to assure that the fixtures will meet your needs. Scale,
mounting, and bulb types are all very important in the selection process. One
of the biggest issues that gets overlooked is the placement of the junction box
on the wall, which often interferes with the direction the fixture will hang.
If hung incorrectly the fixture will not illuminate the surrounding area correctly
and may even shine back into your windows
Type Of Light
I am often asked which bulb is the correct
type to use in exterior fixtures. I do not have the perfect answer for that
question. The bulb type is usually dictated by the fixture itself, but my preferences
are LED (light-emitting diode), CFL (compact fluorescent lamp) and incandescent
bulbs. LED lamps seem to be the direction that all manufacturers are leaning,
and that it exciting because of the sleek designs and the energy savings that
they offer.
About the Author
We have been active in the Design and Construction Industry since 1982 in the Portland metro area. The broad experience that she brings to Chown is used every day in helping her clients reach their dreams of the perfect room or project. In her spare time, uses her creative talents to make one of a kind jewelry pieces using materials that she collects or are given to her by the team of treasure hunters in her life. Other favorite pastimes are working in her flower beds which she refers to as “dirt therapy” and cooking up pretty amazing meals for family and friends.
Outdoor Lighting Tips for Beginners
If you want to focus on the architecture of
your home instead of your landscape, you can choose from a wide variety of
lighting styles. The subtle scheme in this photo will create a moonlight effect
after the sun goes down resulting in soft, inviting highlights as if moonbeams
were lighting the property.
Creating an outdoor lighting design for
your house and yard might not be at the top of your home improvement “to do”
list but there are practical and aesthetic reasons for doing it, from
increasing the security and safety of your property to providing additional
curb appeal at night.
Getting Started
The first thing you need to consider is
your current setup for exterior lighting. Do you have lighting fixtures already
installed or the necessary outlets and/or connections for the job at hand? Many
newly constructed homes in residential areas are often equipped with outdoor
lighting sources on the left and right corners of the house. If you don’t have
a basic setup like this, you should hire an electrician to do it. If you have a
home with a less conventional facade and architectural features that extend or recede from a standard straight
line layout across the front, you might consider installing additional light
sources to highlight these areas.
Picking Your Subject
Regardless of whether you are lighting your
front or backyard, you need to decide what you want to highlight in your
design. Is it your landscape, specific trees or shrubs, a fountain or maybe a
courtyard area? In most cases, exterior lighting sources are as high as the
eaves of houses or higher with the light shining down, but there are always
exceptions to this. For example, Burks says, “If it’s a newly installed
landscape project and it’s not a very mature landscape, you’re probably only
going to be able to go from the ground up. The problem with trying to light
landscape for the first time is our brains are used to having the light shine
down from the sun and the moon.” If you are only interested in lighting
something specific like a walkway, you may find that you can accomplish that
effectively with ground lighting or a combination of high and low lights for
the best results
Choices of Light
Your choices for exterior lighting are
primarily going to be flood lights, spotlights or path lights and you might
want to consider a combination of all three depending on how elaborate you want
your lighting schema to be. Flood lights will cast a wide beam suitable for
illuminating a large area but spot lights will disperse a narrower beam of
light, usually less than 45 degrees wide. Path lights, of course, are most
effective for lighting walkways and paths.
TIPS TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT TYPES OF OUTDOOR
LIGHTING
A garden without outdoor lighting can never
be used to the fullest extent, depriving you of great pleasure. Outdoor
lighting has many benefits like improved security, enhanced aesthetics, and it
adds to the curb appeal of your property. Outdoor lighting fixtures are
available in a variety of styles and finishes, and these add to the style
quotient of your home. Fixtures with quality waterproofing do not require
shelter and can rough it out in any season. However, lights with minimal
waterproofing can be used in semi-outdoor areas like covered patios and decks,
etc.
Practical Aspects to Keep In View
You need to pay attention to certain
aspects while choosing outdoor lights such as the IP rating, which is always
mentioned on the packaging. This factor is vital because when you fit any
lights outdoors, they need to be durable and waterproof. Let us see what IP
(Ingress Protection) rating indicates. Look at the first and second digit.
These digits tell you the levels of sealing effectiveness of the lights from
intrusion – the first digit related to foreign bodies like dust, tools, etc.
and the second digit to moisture.
Entrance Light Fittings
Entrance lights are the face of your house
because they brighten the path to the front door of your home. The illumination
they provide makes it easy for you to welcome visitors and identify callers at
your door. Use 60W porch lights that complement the styling of your front door
and exterior architecture.
Patio and Deck light fixtures
Do you use your outdoor area for dining and
entertaining friends often? Then patio lights can make the place more usable.
You can choose from a variety of light fittings to suit your style preferences.
Install wall-mounted decorative lights, recessed spotlights for the ceiling
area, or pendant glass lamps to create the perfect mood. Ensure that the
lighting theme beautifies your furniture, and illuminates the outdoor area
correctly, allowing you to use these spaces optimally.
Decorative Lights
Decorative lights bring your outdoors to
life, add charm to the place, and create a warm and pleasant environment.
Colourful or white lights, string lights, accent lights, and light curtains
swaying in the breeze induce a cheerful and ethereal atmosphere. There is an
amazing variety of outdoor lights to choose from so you can turn your yard into
a comfortable and beautiful place. Illuminate particular features like trees, a
fountain in the garden, or the path by using accent lights or uplighters.
Buying guide: How to choose the right
outdoor Christmas lights
One of the best things about Christmas is
lighting up your house. It creates a warm, glowing welcome when you arrive
home. And festive light displays always put people in a good mood! Outdoor Christmas
lights can be confusing because there are so many types to choose from. So I’ve
put together a handy buying guide to explain the different styles, bulbs and
power options.
POWER SUPPLY AND BULBS
Make sure you buy lights that are marked
for outdoor or external use. Indoor lights are not designed for outdoor use and
could easily blow a fuse. Most modern outdoor lights use LED bulbs, which
stands for light-emitting diode. They are very efficient and use less
electricity than traditional incandescent bulbs, making them cheaper to power.
They are also low-voltage and don’t overheat, so they are safer for children.
There are two power options available:
mains supply and battery-powered.
Mains supply lights plug into your
electricity supply. If you choose this option, please make sure everything is
safe! You will need to check that all sockets, cables and connections are fully
waterproofed. The slightest bit of moisture in an electrical circuit can be
extremely dangerous. Make sure to buy and fit proper socket covers.
STRING LIGHTS
String lights and fairy lights are one the
most popular types of Christmas lights. They can be used in all sorts of ways.
Hang them from your eaves, window frames and conservatory roof. Trail them
along fences and paths or wrap them around tree trunks and other structures.
You can also use short battery-powered versions to decorate wreaths and pile
into jars and storm lanterns to decorate steps.
NOVELTY LIGHTS
The other type of Christmas lights come in
novelty shapes and silhouettes. It’s a great way to create a warm welcome to
your home. Try one feature or a whole collection for a festive scene. Novelty
lights can be freestanding or hanging. There are loads of possibilities, from
simple shapes like trees, stars and baubles to characters like Santa and
reindeer. They can have wire frames and there’s even a trend for inflatables
lit up from inside.
Select Outdoor Yard Lights for Security and
Energy Savings
Many rural residences and farmsteads use
yard lights to provide night security and to illuminate driveways and buildings
after dark. Selecting the right light will produce the results you want while
saving energy.
How much light?
Light intensity is measured in foot
candles. One lumen of light energy falling on one square foot creates one foot
candle. For general yard security and movement, a light intensity of one half
to two foot candles is recommended. This light intensity can be created by 100
to 175 watts of lamp size mounted 25 feet above ground and serving no more than
8,000 square feet.
What type of light fixture?
Unshielded lamps send light in all
directions. Even standard downward-facing fixtures can lose one third of their
light to the sides. A full parabolic reflector fixture will direct the most
light to the ground in your target area and allow desired light intensity with
a smaller lamp.
What type of lamp?
Lamp efficiency is one factor to consider
and is measured in lumens of light per watt of electric consumption, vary
widely. Some lamps are slow to start or to reach full intensity.
Standard incandescent and halogen lamps
produce only 15 to 20 lumens per watt, but come on almost instantly. These
lamps are fairly short-lived, but do not suffer from frequent on-off cycles.
They are best where use time is short and the lamp is easy to access to change
bulbs.
Things You
Need to Know Before Choosing a Videographer
WHY HIRE A VIDEOGRAPHER?
When it comes to looking back on your
wedding, having a film brings the day back to life just by pushing play. Having
video to accompany your photos can give you a more full experience to look back
on, but it can also be amazing to have this piece of art — starring you!
Hiring a
wedding videographer was an important process for me and my fiancé because we
want to be able to re-experience our wedding in motion. There are so many
moments that occur in between photos being taken, and that extra experience
adds to the authenticity and depth of a memory. A video of my wedding day will
allow me to revisit my vow readings and remember all of the jokes my older
brother cracked in his speech.
Equally
as important was our selection of the videography style we wanted. My fiancé
and I have somewhat-unconventional styles, so we knew a traditional wedding
video wasn’t quite the right fit for us. After going through dozens of wedding
videos, we decided that a modern cinematic style was perfect for us. We were
happy to find a videographer that “got” our styles, and we trusted enough that
we wouldn’t have to worry about the finished product.”
TIPS WHEN
IT COMES TO CHOOSING THE RIGHT VIDEOGRAPHER.
It’s not every day that you are tasked with
planning the biggest party of your life, and thank goodness for that. All of a
sudden you’re now supposed to be a flower expert, a music guru, and a
professional decorator—all while still going about your regular
responsibilities. There always seems to be one of the wedding must-haves that
seems to slip through the cracks ’til the last minute, and often that thing is
videography.
It Is Worth It
As your wedding day gets closer and closer
it seems that the budget gets tighter, and many couples start to ask themselves
“is videography really something we want?”. In short—it’s definitely a must.”
It is said that a picture is worth a thousand words, and a video is literally
thousands of pictures a minute! Trust us, when it comes to the video of you
walking down the isle, you don’t want to rely on your great uncle’s shaky cell
phone video to capture that moment.
Professionalism Over Price
You can always find
someone who will do it for cheaper, but be wary of a price too low—because it
just may be too good to be true. I groomsman at my friend’s wedding who had
hired a videographer on Craigslist for $300. The morning of the wedding, the
shooter text us saying he wasn’t feeling well and wasn’t going to make it. No
offer to provide another shooter, no ‘plan b’, he just wasn’t going to show up.
I ended up having to be both best man and emergency videographer (not recommended!).
Personality is Important
Once your big day finally arrives, the only
person spending as much time with you as your photographer, will be your
videographer. If you have a wedding planner (which we highly
recommend) will be dealing with the BIG stuff, the DJ will be occupied with the
party, and the flower and cake vendors generally drop off their beautiful creations
and then dip out. From hair & make up until the sparkler send-off, the
videographer will be by your side capturing every moment and memory. So if you
like their work and their personality, book them!
Know the style you like.
There are so many ways to shoot a wedding
but here are the three main ones:
Music video: It focuses on cinematic shots,
and is a visually driven film with lots of time shifting through parts of the
day with effects and music with lyrics. This style has little to no audio such
as vows, speeches or any other voice over dialogue.
Candid/minimalist: The opposite of the
music video: This style is like a professionally shot home movie– it focuses on
candid moments with a more handheld style, and is more about moments of guests
laughing, speeches, natural audio and interactions between people over visual
flair. These films have a more organic natural feel with instrumental
music driven by dialogue.
Cinematic Story Telling: I personally
feel this style is the best of both worlds and this is how I shoot my films.
It has the visual production quality of the music video but with the
feel and emotion of the Candid style. In this style there are the
stunning cinematic shots but also the emotional feel of the day with dialogue
from the day.
You Might Need More Than One Videographer
Imagine if they’d tried to film an event in
the Olympics on a single camera. It probably wouldn’t have worked out very
well. So if you want a live event filmed – like a wedding or a gig – you’ll
need multiple video cameras to capture different angles. This means hiring a
few different videographers. Even if it’s for something like a music video, it
will make filming more efficient.
Sometimes videographers will work as part
of a crew, which makes this pretty straightforward. If they’re independent,
it’s a good idea to ask them who they’ve worked with in the past. You can then
hire a second videographer knowing that the two have worked well together
before.
It’s Not Just Filming You Have to Think
About
Sure, you could just get the raw footage if
you’re trying to cut costs and have the capacity to edit the video yourself.
But in all likelihood, post-production is likely to be something you’ll have to
consider in your budget. You’ll want a good edit to make your final video look
polished. Some videographers will include this in their package, but you might
have to hire a separate video editor. Video production can be a fairly lengthy
process as a result, so have a realistic time frame in mind (as well as a
budget that matches it). For example, a wedding video will probably take at
least 8 weeks to finish.
You can
relive the memories over and over.
Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime
event, but your wedding film allows that day to live on forever. While some
memories are bound to fade over the years, having every moment on film is a
truly priceless benefit of hiring a wedding videographer. You are going to
be making so many precious memories on your wedding day, and we guarantee you
won’t regret getting to relive them year after year. Anniversaries will be even
more special when you get to watch your wedding film and reminisce about all
the love you felt that day. Even a random Tuesday can be made a little
sweeter by blocking off time to relive your beautiful day. Seriously, this is
one movie you’ll never get tired of re-watching!
You can easily share the video with people who couldn’t make it.
As sad as it is to think about, there is a chance some family
members or friends might not be able to attend your wedding due to illness,
distance, or age. And, if you decide to elope, it’s likely nobody but your
officiant will get to witness your special day. So, having a wedding film
allows your loved ones who couldn’t make it feel like they were there and
experience more emotion than they could get from just your photos. Because
videographers can easily post your wedding film on YouTube or Vimeo, you can
easily give everyone who wishes they could have been there a front-row seat to
the best love story in town. Your videographer can even create shorter clips
that you can share on social media for your extended friend group to get a peek
into your day.
With the arrival of new treatments for bed
bugs, it has become easier for those with pest problems to get effective
treatments to eradicate bugs and other pests. Just calling in a bed bug
inspection company, as a start for the process, many homes have been able to
find a perfect solution for pest infestations.
Although the results are positive, it is
still a daunting process as a homeowner to pick out the best company to begin
the inspection process or the treatment itself, for that matter. After all,
pest control measures do not come out cheap. Hence, here are a few tips to the
home owners about how to pick out the best bed bug inspection company amongst
several possible candidates.
Positive and effective inspection methods
None of us like to bring in strangers into
our homes for inspection. Since bed bugs inspection involves a rigorous process
of checking under mattresses, photo frames, switches and many more, it takes
time and effort for the inspecting team to get to the crux of the matter. For
this, various inspecting methods, including canine detection services are used
by many inspection companies. So, inquire about the way the inspections are
done, before calling in for a scrutiny.
Effective treatment methods
When we want to get rid of the pests,
inspection is only the initial step, but the most crucial one. However, the bed
bugs inspection company should also have treatment processes up in their
sleeves, whenever required. Hence, call a service for checking your home which
also offers a comprehensive package of treatment processes too, to make the
endeavor worthwhile.
Cost-effective and affordable
Pest control measures are always costlier.
However, we can still save cost, by comparing the beg bugs inspection company
for their effectiveness versus the amount charged for inspection and successive
treatment processes.
Choosing a Pest Control Operator
Should I use a pest control company?
Bed bug control requires an integrated pest
management (IPM) approach that includes proper preparation and inspection,
identification and housekeeping. This will ensure the risk of pesticide
exposure is minimized, the environment is protected, and the effectiveness of
the treatment is maximized.
Getting rid of bed bug infestations
requires the use of pesticides or other treatments. Only pest control
professionals should apply pesticides for bed bugs. There are several licensed
pest control companies in Saskatchewan who have the proper training and
experience to manage a bed bug infestation.
Foggers and bug bombs are not effective
against bed bugs. Untrained individuals attempting to control a bed bug
infestation on their own may put themselves in dangerous situations, including
severe over-application of insecticides or inappropriate use of insecticides.
Choosing a Pest Control Company
The best way to deal with bed bug
infestations is Integrated Pest Management (IPM). IPM combines a variety of
techniques and products that pose the least risk to human health and the environment.
You can find more information on the IPM approach here (link to 1 Planning).
Only licensed pest control companies should
apply pesticides for bed bugs. Other companies may use thermal treatments to
solve the problem.
The proposed work should follow all of the
principles of Integrated Pest Management, not just pesticide application. It is
important to note that eliminating bed bugs may take several treatments. Make
sure that the company you hire has a committed treatment plan, including follow
up pesticide treatments.
The pest control company should be
straightforward and open when discussing details of the service provided.
Understand what guarantees are being offered. Bed bug management may be
difficult to guarantee, because re-infestation from an outside source is
possible. It may require several treatments to control the infestation.
Ask the company for references for bed bug
control and check them.
Always deal with a qualified and licensed
pest management company. Ask to see their licence. A good company should:
Have extensive experience with bed bug
management;
Inspect your property before giving you a
price quote or beginning any pesticide application or thermal treatment;
Give you a written inspection report and an
action plan of how to prepare for treatment and prevent further infestation;
Base quotes on inspection findings;
Visit often and work with you until the job
is done and the bed bugs are gone;
Employ qualified, well-trained pest
management operators;
Educate you on how to prevent bed bugs; and
Treat you with respect.
When you speak to the operator ask them to:
Tell you when it’s safe to re-enter a
treated room;
Notify your landlord to inspect adjacent
apartments for bed bugs;
Agree on a service treatment plan and
pricing structure;
Clearly explain what you and the company
are each responsible for. If repairs are not part of the service agreement,
then the company should provide you with a list of repairs you need to do to
solve the problem;
Walk around your home with you during each
visit and explain the work being done; and
Point out any conditions that contribute to
bed bugs in or near your property, and provide a written inspection report
How to Get Rid of Bed Bugs
Bed bugs are just among the worst pests a
person will ever have in a home. A bed bug infestation can cause a major
headache. The bugs are difficult to exterminate, and they cause extra anxiety
to a homeowner because they feed on human blood and seem to attack during
sleep. This Guide to Bed Bugs Control article will focus on strategies, various
treatments and costs to get rid of bed bugs
What Are Bed Bugs?
Bed bugs are small insects that feed on the
blood of humans and animals. The bugs are oval-shaped and brownish in color
with flat bodies. Once a bed bug feeds on blood, it tends to swell. Still, even
a well-fed bed bug is small enough to hide in crevices and tiny spaces.
Severe reactions to bed bug bites are not
common. Most people have no long-lasting reaction to the bites. However, the
bites can cause itching and light swelling in humans
The following is a list of things you can
do to treat the bites:
Apply an ice pack or a cold cloth to your
bites.
Use calamine lotion or an over-the-counter
anti-itch cream.
Make a salve by mixing water and baking
soda. Apply this mixture to the skin to relieve itching.
Try not to scratch your bites. Scratching
can irritate the skin or open the skin, which could increase your risk of
developing an infection.
Bed Bug Removal Strategy
There are two strategies you can use to
remove bed bugs. The first is to exterminate them using heat, a vacuum, a
mattress cover, and chemicals. The other strategy involves making some changes
to your home to allow a professional to exterminate.
How Much Do Bed Bug Exterminators Cost? (A
Simple Guide)
Bed bugs: frustrating, annoying pests at
best…hungry, nocturnal bloodsuckers at worst.
When faced with a bed bug infestation,
you’re probably finding yourself deprived of a decent night’s sleep. Even
worse, you feel helpless in dealing with the problem yourself considering their
size makes them almost impossible to detect.
The only real option you have in this
situation is to call a bed bug control service. While a bed bug exterminator is
indeed just a quick phone call away, this critical first step is (sometimes) a
lot more complicated than you might think
Should You Call A Bed Bug Exterminator?
Bed bugs are indeed quite small and you may
want to solve the problem on your own. But can you really get rid of the
problem that keeps on biting you in your sleep? Or is it better to call in a
pro for bed bug control service?
Why Make the Call?
If this is your first time to consider
calling for bed bug control service, chances are that there are still a lot of
things that you don’t know about these small (but terrible!) pests.
The size and appearance of bed bugs make
these pests nearly invisible to the naked eye. They’re about the same size of a
pin head with a brown appearance. Bed bugs have flat bodies that can easily
squeeze into the smallest or most restricted hiding spots. They feed on human
blood but can also live for more than a year without food.
Bed bug control
Bed bug inspection
There is an overwhelming amount of
information on how best to detect and monitor bed bugs – in and amongst the mix
of DIY solutions, suggestions from friends, myths and urban legends, a clear
solution can be difficult to find.
Entomologists, pest control experts and
homeowners all agree on one though – bed bugs are unique and cannot be managed
through typical pest control measures. These parasitic insects are incredibly
small and can fit into cracks as thin as a credit card – miss two of these
expert hiders and you’ll have a brand new infestation on your hands
Challenges in bed bug detection
The most important – and ironically, the
most difficult – step in eliminating bed bugs is detection. It is crucial to
correctly identify these blood-feeding pests, but adult bed bugs are typically
only a few millimeters in length and width. Other stages of the bed bug life cycle
(eggs and nymphs) are microscopic and virtually invisible to the naked eye.
Bed bug eggs hatch and nymphs mature with
each blood meal, developing into fully-grown adults in months. These adults go
on to reproduce and form new colonies; left undetected and untreated, the
infestations spread at rapid pace, making sleep a recurring nightmare for the
humans they share a bed with.
Western Exterminator bed bug inspection
process
At Western Exterminator, we use multiple
detection methods to ensure a comprehensive bed bug inspection.
A dermatologist is a doctor that
specializes in treating skin, hair, nail, and mucous membrane disorders and
diseases. They can also address cosmetic issues, helping to revitalize the
appearance of the skin, hair, and nails.
The Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention (CDC) estimate that, in the United States, there were 39 million
visits to office-based dermatologists, who were not federally employed, in
2010. Below, we explore common issues that dermatologists encounter, the
treatments they offer, and the qualifications involved.
What is dermatology?
Dermatology is an area of medicine that
focuses on health issues affecting the skin, hair, nails, and mucous membranes.
Qualifications
It is important to know that a dermatologist
has a full license or certification before visiting them. Some practitioners in
spas and beauty clinics call themselves dermatologists but do not have the
necessary accreditation
Common conditions
Being a dermatologist requires a great
depth of clinical knowledge, including, for example, the various internal
health problems that can cause skin symptoms
How to Choose a Dermatologist
The importance of learning about your skin
and how to take great care of it is substantial—and oftentimes overlooked. As
the body’s largest organ, the skin needs consistent upkeep to remain healthy
and in its top condition, which is why people bathe, moisturize, and visit
their dermatologist on a regular basis
Dermatology is complex yet vital to your
health, especially in Arizona—a state known for high temperatures and constant
sunshine. People carrying on with their normal routine in temperatures reaching
as high as 115 degrees during the summer need to pay extra attention to their
skin.
That’s where your dermatologist comes in.
It takes a licensed professional with years of experience to diagnose a variety
of rashes, moles, and other irregularities that might occur, as well as
prescribe the right treatment based on your personal needs.
But what are the top qualities you should
look for in a dermatologist in the sunny? Well to start, we recommend doing
your research before choosing a dermatologist, and establishing a set of
expectations before your first visit.
Dermatologists, what do they do exactly?
You should know that Dermatology isn’t all
rashes, facelifts, and fillers. Dermatology encompasses the evaluation,
diagnosis, and treatment of all diseases related to the skin, hair, nails, and
oral cavity. These specialists in white coats aren’t all talk, they literally
do it all!
Tips for Choosing the Right Skincare
Products
A silky-smooth texture, a vibrant glow, and
a rich, even color are hallmarks of beautiful skin. If that’s what you’re
after, you must develop a rock-solid skincare routine that involves choosing
the right products. Though intimidating at first, with a little bit of
knowledge you’ll find yourself whizzing through the world of skincare like a
pro.
Tips for Choosing the Right Skincare
Products
From fancy creams and serums to masks and
ointments, selecting skincare products can seem overwhelming, especially when
you don’t know what you’re looking for or where to start. Your skin is as
unique as a fingerprint, and caring for it means learning how to build your own
routine with the right products to support your skincare goals. Use these tips
to get started.
Know your skin type
Getting to know your skin type is the best
place to start when you’re considering building a skincare routine. Figure out
your skin type — oily, dry, sensitive, or combination. The goal is to add
products to your regimen designed for your specific skin type.
Know your needs
Take some time to think about your skin’s
needs. Perhaps you have fine lines that you want to diminish. Maybe you have
persistent acne that isn’t responding to your normal routine, or large pores
that you want to minimize the appearance of. The products you choose need to
effectively address the issues you’re most concerned about.
Know the basics
Regardless of what type of skin you have,
the four skincare commandments form the basis of every good regimen
Dermatology
We are an internationally recognized
Department that offers our patients expert and individualized care. Using the
most advanced medical tools available, we achieve outstanding results.
We diagnose and treat a wide range of
conditions, including:
Common skin issues: eczema, acne, warts,
psoriasis, and others
Complex skin disorders: skin cancer,
autoimmune disorders, skin problems due to systemic illnesses
Cosmetic concerns: fine lines and wrinkles,
hair removal, unwanted tattoos, acne scars, skin rejuvenation, and others
Exceptional dermatologists: Our
Department’s medical and surgical dermatologists are all highly trained and
experienced. Our team of dermatologists includes leading experts in their
fields, all of whom have made significant achievements in patient care,
research, and academic teaching.
Convenient, personalized care: Whether
treating the simplest issue or the most complex conditions, our physicians put
patients first. Each patient receives a unique care plan based upon their
individual condition and goals.
Proven patient satisfaction: Our approach
has led to high patient satisfaction rates among our 70,000 patient visits per
year
HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR COSMETIC DERMATOLOGIST
Tips for Finding the Right Person to Help
You Look Your Best
A qualified cosmetic dermatologist,
supported by the equipment and resources of a quality facility, can do wonders
to help you feel better about your appearance and maintain healthy skin. This
article provides tips to help you select the skin-care specialist who you will
feel best seeing.
Quality – A knowledgeable, qualified
specialist will help you select the right treatments that will achieve the best
results for you.
Safety –
Most importantly, a qualified professional will have the training and
qualifications to provide an equal commitment to your safety and health.
Here’s a list of questions that you should
ask any clinic offering these services:
Does a board certified physician actually
perform or supervise the treatments on-site? Board certification means the
doctor has had additional training and testing in that specialty.
Is the doctor a Board Certified:
Dermatologist by either the American Academy of Dermatology or the American
Osteopathic College of Dermatology? These are the only two legitimate
dermatology certifying bodies in the US.
If a patient has a complication or unwanted
side effect, what happens? It is important to have confidence in your
provider’s protocols in these situations.
How long has the clinic been providing
these treatments? Make sure you feel good about how long the facility has been
providing the treatment you will receive.
Who is the medical director of your clinic
and are they a Board Certified: Dermatologist, Plastic Surgeon, Ophthalmologist
or Otolaryngologist?
Can you have a consultation with a Board
Certified Dermatologist at your appointment?
Does the medical director actually see and
treat patients at your clinic or does your clinic/medispa use their name, Drug
Enforcement Agency number and medical license to purchase medically controlled
products/lasers and medications (like BOTOX® Cosmetic and Restylane) in
exchange for financial compensation?
When coming in for a medical or laser
treatment is a complete medical history taken and reviewed by a board certified
physician before any treatments are provided?This is important to ensure extra
precautions are taken if your medical history warrants them or indicates a
particular procedure could not be safe.
Does anyone affiliated with your clinic
have any sanctions against them filed with the State Board of Medical or
Nursing Practice?
