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Archive for 2013

Saturday, February 9th, 2013

Cleaning your house by yourself is a big task that sometimes you can’t handle on your own. Hiring a maid service is a helpful option that can relieve the burden from your shoulders. Although it seems impersonal, a maid can really keep your home in a clean condition so you have one less thing to worry about. Your attic is an area that you might not initially consider cleaning, but you should every once in a while.

A maid will usually only clean what you specifically ask them to and in the way you want them to. This is not because they are being lazy or stubborn. This is actually because they are coming into your home and do not want to overstep their boundaries. They don’t want to clean places you have not specifically said are okay for them to go into.

Can You Hire a Maid to Clean Out Attic?

If you want to hire a maid to clean your attic you will need to be very specific when looking for one. You should also provide proper safety and cleaning materials, as this is not an area usually required to be cleaned, and they may not be prepared. Depending on the size of your attic you may also need to hire more than one person. Do not feel awkward that you want your attic to be cleaned. As a busy person you may be pressed for time and want to use the space, but are unable to because it is dirty.

Things to Consider

If you find someone who is willing to clean out your attic there are a few things you should be ready for. Make sure that you give them enough time to clean the area because otherwise you will be left with shoddy workmanship. You will also need to provide the extra cleaning materials associated with an attic because this is not a typical home environment. There can be insulation fibers and broken down wood or rusty nails lying about. When asking a maid to clean your attic be sure to remember that they are not organizing and unpacking for you. Do this ahead of time so that they will be able to clean easier and more in depth.

You can most definitely hire a maid to clean your attic. Just be sure to compensate them because this is an unusual request. By providing for them and also showing them kindness you will reap the reward in a clean home. Don’t forget that these people are hardworking individuals by sometimes giving them a little gift- a token of your appreciation.

Additional Help

If you have more questions about getting your attic cleaned you should try to talk to a professional so that you can get the best help possible. The easiest, fastest way to get in contact with reliable local maid services is to use TalkLocal. Just put in your problem and availability and let them do all the work. Within minutes you will be connected to someone who will be able to help you out.

Posted in Maid Services | No Comments »

How to Defragment Windows 7 Computer

Saturday, February 9th, 2013

Is a slow Windows 7 computer ruining your day? One of the easiest ways to speed up your computer is to defragment your computer. This simple task can make your computer significantly faster and can take between several minutes and a couple of hours. For Windows 7, defragmentation is a weekly scheduled task, so for the majority of users, fragmentation shouldn’t be a large issue. However, if you ever want to defragment your computer manually for good measure, the actual process is extremely simple and easy to execute.

How to Defragment Windows 7 Computer

– Go to the Windows Start menu

– Type in “disk defragmenter” in the search bar, and the defragmenting tool will pop up

– Select the disk drive that you want to defragment and press the “Defragment Disk” button. The entire process is automated and will inform you once it’s finished. It’s that easy!

What is it doing?

As you continuously use the data on the hard disk, the data starts to become disorganized. As you pull out specific data and then return the data to the slots, the computer can’t return each byte of data perfectly. Rather, the data becomes fragmented and scattered all over the place. Therefore, when you need to pull out that specific piece of data again, the computer has to first find the data that’s been scattered all over the place. This chaos can slow down your computer considerably and defragmenting restores order to that chaos, speeding up your computer significantly.

Additional Help

If ever you need help speeding up your computer, or are wary of changing anything in your system, it always helps to consult a professional. TalkLocal will connect you with up to three high quality computer technicians in your area who will know how to properly clean up the clutter on your computer.

Posted in Computer Repair | No Comments »

3 Ways to Woo Your Valentine

Saturday, February 9th, 2013

Written by Dallea Caldwell

Valentines day is coming up, and you need to show your love for that special someone. All of us at TalkLocal thought of our top three ways to show our love on this romantic day. This year, stay away from that expected box of chocolates, flowers, or teddy bear. Here are our top 3 ways to woo your valentine.

1. Surprise them the Write Way: Before Valentines Day approaches, hide a short and sweet handwritten note in their home or car. Send them a text on Valentines Day to “look under their mattress for a special surprise”. This simple gesture shows your valentine that you were planning this well in advance.

2. Personalized Gift: If you want to show you really care, create a custom gift for your valentine. Make a photo collage, write your own note instead of a store bought card, or cook their favorite meal. Personalized gifts are irreplaceable and thoughtful, and that’s what makes them so special.

3. Plan a Meal: Make sure to involve food in your day, whether you’re taking your valentine to their favorite restaurant or cooking them a delicious meal. All of us at TalkLocal love food, and we have a feeling your date does too. Planning a nice meal gives you the opportunity to really focus on your loved one more intimately than you do the other 364 days of the year- it also gives you a great excuse to eat delicious food!

These tips will show your Valentine how much you truly care! Avoid pretending to forget about Valentine’s Day just to surprise your loved one. You’ll make your loved one feel miserable and think that you don’t care for the days leading up to Valentine’s Day. Save you and your loved one the grief- if your valentine asked if you are doing anything for the day, be obscure and say you have “something planned”.

Don’t have much time to plan the perfect Valentine’s Day? Use TalkLocal to find your local professional limousine drivers, massage therapists, and party planners in under 3 minutes. TalkLocal will help you find local professionals so fast, your valentine won’t know you planned it last minute.

Posted in Seva Call | No Comments »

Severe TMJ symptoms

Saturday, February 9th, 2013

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a ball and socket joint that connects your lower jaw to the temporal bone of the skull. The joint is flexible enough to allow the jaw space to move, which is why we are able to eat and talk. A condition called temporomandibular disorder (TMD) occurs when problems with the jaw, joint, and facial muscles flare up.

Causes of TMD

Problems with the TMJ can arise almost at random. Dentists are still unsure of the cause of TMD, but it is believed that the symptoms arise from problems with either the muscles in the jaw or with the joints themselves. There are some other possible causes of TMD, including:

– Clenching and grinding of the teeth, putting pressure on the TMJ.

– Stress can cause people to tighten their jaw and facial muscles or clench their teeth.

– Dislocation of the disc between the ball and socket of the joint in your jaw

– Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid in the TMJ

Severe TMJ Symptoms

If you suspect you or someone you know has TMD, there are some common symptoms to look for.

– Pain or tenderness in the areas around your mouth or jaw

– Not being able to open your mouth completely

– A jaw that gets stuck when you open up your mouth wide

– Clicking, popping, or grating noises when opening or closing your mouth (even more so if this is accompanied by pain)

– Swelling on the side of your face

– Difficulty chewing or biting

– Some other commonly related symptoms include: toothaches, headaches, neck aches, upper shoulder pain, and ringing in the ears

Treatments for TMJ

There are many treatments available that can relieve your symptoms, so if you have any symptoms that hint that you may be suffering from TMD, you should get it checked out as soon as possible. In the mean time, to reduce the pain, applying ice to inflamed areas and taking anti-inflammatory medications is advisable. Eating soft foods and using a night guard for your mouth can be helpful as well.

Additional Help

Many conditions have symptoms similar to TMD, so if you are suffering from any of these, it is important to get checked out by a dentist. If you are searching for a dentist, consider using TalkLocal to find a top-quality dentist in your area. TalkLocal is a FREE service that connects you with the best professionals in just a few minutes. All you need to do is enter in your specific problems, location and availability, and TalkLocal will contact multiple dentists who will then call YOU directly, ready to help.

Posted in Dentists | No Comments »

Types of Awnings for your Home

Friday, February 8th, 2013

Benefits of Awnings

Awnings are a great solution for homeowners seeking shelter from the elements. Simply stated, they are protective coverings that attach to a structure without the aid of support columns. Awnings are designed to cover doorways, windows and outdoor living spaces. Read on to learn more about the benefits and types of awnings for your home.

They not only add color and architectural interest to your home, awnings also offer much-needed shade to keep you cool and help you save on monthly energy bills during the summer. Conversely, awnings will keep you warm and dry during the rainy season.

In addition, awnings provide interior protection from the sun. Harsh UV rays can wreak havoc on fabrics, furnishings and flooring inside your home. Protect your investment by installing awnings over sliders, windows, and doors, especially if you live in a climate that is sunny year-round.

Types of Awnings for Your Home

Before making a decision, you need to learn about the common types of awnings for home use. At first glance, you may think there are many different types on the market, when in reality there are only two – retractable and stationary.

Retractable

You envisioned your new patio as a place to share good times with family and friends. Unfortunately, you have done little outdoor entertaining because of the broiling sun and frequent rainstorms.

Consider a retractable awning to cover large expanses like your patio or deck. Retractable awnings consist of an all-weather fabric cover placed over an aluminum framework. Each manufacturer offers proprietary designs to differentiate them from the competition. These awnings open and extend out as needed and retract when not in use. You can choose from electric or manual operating systems. Retractable awnings mount on vertical wall surfaces or along the roof-line.

Wind is the main enemy of the retractable awning. Sudden gusts can cause their lightweight materials to flap and twist, damaging the frame and moving parts. If you live in a windy area, consider purchasing a motorized awning with a sensor. The awning will automatically retract when winds become a problem.

Stationary

Stationary awnings are used to cover much smaller areas and rarely include moving parts. Mount them over windows to provide indoor shade from the afternoon sun. They are also ideal for your home’s entryway to protect waiting guests from sun, rain, and wintry precipitation.

Stationary awning styles range from flat sloped to domed, and convex to concave. Some have side panels and others feature open gables. Their valances can be straight or scalloped. Stationary awning materials include aluminum, canvas fabric, and fiberglass.

Still can’t decide?

If you are still having trouble choosing between the different types and styles of awnings, don’t fret. TalkLocal will connect you with reputable awning or roofing companies in your area to help with your decision. Your awning dilemma will be solved in no time!

Posted in Roofers | 1 Comment »

Tips for Installing a Pool

Friday, February 8th, 2013

Pools are great investments for the home; they offer a great way to enjoy the outdoors during the summer. If you are considering installing a pool in your backyard, you’ll definitely want to see these tips for installing a pool. While you’re most likely going to hire a contractor to do the actual in-ground installation, you’ll need to first consider many of the logistics and design choices for your backyard pool.

Pool Specifications

One of the most important aspects to consider is how large of a pool you’re willing to make in your backyard. While even a small backyard can accommodate sizable pools, you’ll need to figure out how much of your backyard you’re willing to dedicate to the pool, the shape of the pool, and the material of the pool. Fiberglass and vinyl-lined pools are ideal for colder climates, as concrete may crack during the winter. However, concrete is the most flexible and is usually the most durable type of pool.

Obtain Zoning Permissions

In-ground swimming pools need to comply with the appropriate building and zoning regulations, so you’ll have to apply for a building permit. Try to do this as soon as possible. There most likely will be regulations regarding the distances between property lines, sewer lines, septic tanks, and other in-ground features.

Filtration and Circulation System

Don’t forget that you’ll need space for your filtration and circulation system. While many won’t take up much space, you still need to keep them in mind and leave at least a couple of square feet of space.

Pool Location

Your actual pool location can be extremely important. Placing the pool far away from trees will allow you to warm up the pool with the sun and also reduce the amount of leaves you’ll have to clean. You also want to avoid windy areas, as they’re uncomfortable for people getting out of the pool and cause the pool water to evaporate quickly. Likewise, make sure the area is clear from electrical wires or septic systems when you begin excavating.

Additional Help

These are all design decisions that you’ll have to evaluate in the context of your own backyard. If you have any concerns, you should always talk with a pool installation or landscaping expert. You can always use TalkLocal to make that search extremely easy. You’ll be talking to a high quality local expert in just minutes!

Posted in Landscapers | No Comments »

Remove Ink from Carpet

Friday, February 8th, 2013

Remove Ink from Carpet

Things drop on the carpet all the time, but not all stains are considered a walk in the park. Ink stains are tough to remove from carpet. However, you can inexpensively remove ink from carpet by following a few simple steps using spray lubricant or rubbing alcohol.

How to Remove Ink from Carpet

Try to treat the ink stain as soon as it happens to facilitate removal. Never rub or scrub an ink stain as this could cause the stain to spread and become permanent and impossible to remove.

Lubricant and Soapy Water:

Supplies:

-WD-40 or other spray lubricant

-Dish detergent

-Water

-Sponge

1. Spray the ink stain with the lubricant, and let it sit for a few minutes.

2. While you wait, combine 1 teaspoon of soap with 1 cup of warm water. Make sure the water is soapy. You may adjust the quantities accordingly.

3. Wet the sponge in the soapy mixture.

4. Blot the lubricated ink stain with the wet soapy sponge until the stain disappears.

5. Rinse the affected area with warm water.

6. Let the carpet dry by either using a wet vac or placing a fan over the stain to speed up the evaporation process.

Rubbing Alcohol:

Supplies:

-rubbing alcohol

-white cloth

-warm water

1. Wet a rag or cloth with rubbing alcohol.

2. Blot the ink stain with the wet rag. Use more alcohol as needed.

3. Continue this process until the stain disappears.

4. Rinse the area with warm water.

5. Let the carpet dry using either a wet vac or by placing a fan over the stain to speed up evaporation.

Additional Help

If your stains are too tough to remove yourself, TalkLocal can help connect you with the most qualified carpet cleaners in minutes. All you need to do is enter in your specific issue, location and availability, and TalkLocal will contact multiple carpet cleaners who will then call YOU directly, ready to help.

Posted in Carpet Cleaners | No Comments »

Free Tools for Spyware Removal

Friday, February 8th, 2013

Spyware is a type of computer software that monitors the actions of a computer user and can fall into a number of categories:

Getting rid of spyware can be very difficult, but the right spyware removal software can be very effective. There are several free tools for spyware removal available for download online.

Free Tools for Spyware Removal

Additional Help

If you think your computer has spyware, or if you would like a professional opinion on effective spyware removal techniques and programs, use TalkLocal. We will connect you with up to three professional computer technicians in your area who will be available to help you when you need it. TalkLocal is a free service, so try it today!

Posted in Computer Repair | No Comments »

Kitchen Range Hood Designs

Friday, February 8th, 2013

You may not think of your range hood as one of the features most noticed in a kitchen’s design, but there are many different types and designs for this appliance that can make your kitchen a must-see.

Kitchen Range Hood Designs

Your kitchen range hood acts as an exhaust fan that clears out the smoke and excess (both delicious and maybe unpleasant) smells that may result from cooking. This appliance feature can either be attached to your cabinets, under your microwave, be mounted as a wall fixture, appear alone on your kitchen’s island or even fit an outside kitchen setup. They can be simple or elegant, stainless steel or plastic, standard or custom, or of a modern or antique design.

Your range hood can be equipped with multi-speed blower motors, illuminating halogen lights and even removable filters that are dishwasher safe. On your quest for the perfect range hood, you can find companies that offer over 60 different range hood models of various styles and sizes, determined to give you the perfect one for your kitchen’s design, ambience and needs.

Based on your requirements and personal preferences, kitchen range hood designs can fluctuate widely on price. The more elaborate, high-quality, customized design you choose, the more expensive the range hood will be.

Additional Help

Whether you need help figuring out which type of kitchen range hood is best for you, or if you’re ready to start the process of repairing, purchasing, and/or installing a range hood, try using TalkLocal to contact an appliance repair company or contractor near you. TalkLocal is a free service that will connect you with top-quality, reputable companies in your neighborhood, within minutes. Simply go to our website, enter in your specific problem, location and availability, and we will contact multiple professionals who will then call YOU directly, ready to help.

Posted in Appliances Repair | No Comments »

Signs of Cavities

Thursday, February 7th, 2013

Getting a cavity is a person’s biggest nightmare, especially when going to visit the dentist. A cavity is said to come from eating too much candy or not brushing well enough. In reality it is bacterial infection that causes the hard minerals of the tooth to break down. Sometimes having a cavity can be extremely painful so you should keep an active look out and take action if you think you have one. Here are the most common signs of cavities.

Signs of Cavities

Diagnosing Cavities

Your dentist will be able to tell if you have a cavity by examining your mouth. If they see signs of a cavity or if the tooth feels softer than it should they will take x-rays to see if the cavity really exists. There are several things that can be done to eliminate a cavity, such as extraction, fillings, or crowns. Your dentist will help you determine what the best option is for you. Your dentist will also be able to tell you how to prevent future cavities.

Additional Help

If you have more questions about your cavity you should try to talk to a professional so that you can get the best help possible. The easiest, fastest way to get in contact with reliable, local dentists is to use TalkLocal. Just put in your problem and availability and we will connect you with up to three dentists in your area, who will be available to help you when you need it.

Posted in Dentists | No Comments »

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