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Archive for 2013

Monday, July 22nd, 2013

What’s up Seva Callers?

As some of you may have heard, Seva Call just launched in Chicago!

This is pretty convenient because I just took an amazing trip to Chicago! I was there to visit a friend for the 4th of July weekend.

We went to the beaches around Loyola’s Campus. I finally got to see the famous Bean, and chilled at an outdoor concert a bit. I admired the classy Chicagoans drinking wine and eating Triscuits while listening to early 1900s electronic music

I explored Loyola’s gorgeous campus and hung out with some of the college-goers on the beach. On the 4th, we watched the fireworks launch from Navy Pier — which was just about the best fireworks show I’ve ever seen — while eating Black Diamond Watermelon that a Russian gentleman picked out for me at the local organic mart. (The trick is to hit it and get a hollow sound.) We also watched these street performers jam out on a guitar and trumpet.

Sorry for the crappy photo quality. They were really adorable though. We gave them a handful of quarters because, you know, poor college kids.

But to switch gears real quick, getting around Chicago is so easy! There are no big metro systems in Baltimore or Pittsburgh (where I live with a 25/75 percent split during the year) and I just found the metro super convenient.

If you don’t want to take the metro, you can bike almost anywhere. My butt seriously hurt after the 8 mile bike ride I took one day along the beaches and through the parks. It was wonderful.

Well, I’ve got some keepsakes for my wallet and I look forward to going back.

Chicagoans, kudos to having one of the coolest cities I’ve ever been to. If you are ever in need of help finding local service professionals, hit up Seva Call and we will hook you up, I guarantee it. From Roger’s Park to Andersonville to Downtown, I loved every bit of Chicago.

Thanks for an awesome trip, Chicago.

Posted in Seva Team | No Comments »

How To Restain A Deck

Monday, July 22nd, 2013

Whether it’s to prepare for the elements or just to add a fresh look to your landscape, it’s a pretty simple process to whip a deck back into shape. Here is a simple guide on how to restain your deck.

How To Restain A Deck

1. Test the wood to see if it is ready for staining. Pour some water on the surface. If the water absorbs, it’s time to restain. If it beads or settles, the seal is still good.

2. Sand the deck using 80-grit sandpaper,especially any splintered areas. Be sure to wear safety glasses and a mask.

3. Sweep any sawdust, debris, or dust between cracks off of the deck.

4. Next, you’ll want to clean the deck using an appropriate deck detergent. Depending on the type of cleaner you are using, you may need to wet the deck before applying. For others, keep it dry. Apply the cleaner the the deck and railing using a paint roller or stiff-bristled push broom. Do not let it puddle and do not let it dry. Scrub tough areas with a broom to remove dirt and grime.

6. Let the cleaner soak for a maximum of 10 minutes, or according to the brand’s specifications.

7. Rinse the deck clean with a garden hose.

8. Allow the deck to dry for two days. Look at the weather forecast and find two clear days with warm weather to finish the job.

9. Stir the stain or sealer in the can thoroughly, but don’t shake the container.

10. Apply two thin layers of stain or sealer using a paint roller or foam brush. Again, don’t allow it to pool. Spread it evenly over the surfaces. For hard-to-get areas like stairs or cracks, use a paint brush.

11. Let the deck dry completely.

12. It may be useful to add another coat the following spring to be extra prepared for the elements.

Need Help Restaining Your Deck?

Well, that’s how to restain a deck. If you have any questions or concerns about this project or any others, just come to TalkLocal. We’ll connect you with the right painters in your area in just minutes. Our service is fast, easy, and totally free!

Posted in Painters | No Comments »

Seva Man “Campaigns” in Chicago for Latest Launch

Monday, July 22nd, 2013

“Nashville was great, but I’m ready for the big city,” Seva Man explained, as the interns loaded the Seva van with numerous orange leotards.

Luckily for Seva Man, that’s exactly where they were headed. Some call it the Windy City, some call it the Second City, some call it Chi-Town, but whatever it’s called, Seva Call is more than happy to call Chicago home away from home. Locals will be happy too! That’s 13,500 more businesses being connected to 2.7 million more consumers.

“Wow,” Seva Man said gazing up at the Willis Tower. “Look at the size of that building!”

Everywhere Seva Man went, he was telling people about Seva Call and how much time, energy, and frustration it could save them. He told Navy Pier residents how, in mere minutes, Seva Call can find them the best local professionals.

“Seva Call has this awesome algorithm,” Seva Man said. “It looks at thousands of companies and connects you to the best matches.” The algorithm uses online reviews and ratings, social media interactions, and call analytics to find the top businesses to ensure the best quality service.

Seva Man Campaigns In Chicago

The way Seva Man was pounding the pavement and Chicago’s front doors, you’d think he were campaigning for office. But, instead of arguing higher taxes vs. flat taxes, he’s strengthening businesses by providing free lead previews and connecting them to live consumers for small flat rate. Businesses can just sign up.

In between kissing babies and playing with a rambunctious black lab in Lincoln Park, Seva Man drew yet another distinction to politicians. “Our service is free for consumers and protects your privacy.”

So, if you’re in the Chicago area and need a mechanic, dentist, accountant, or anyone in one of over 50 categories, here’s what you do: Go to www.talklocal.com and enter your name, zip code, availability, and service need. Then, stand by to be connected almost instantly. No more yellow book? Now, that’s change you can believe in.

Posted in Seva Call | No Comments »

How To Install Blown-In Insulation

Monday, July 22nd, 2013

Once the cold weather starts to move in this fall, you may start noticing your heating system is working a little harder than it should, and your home isn’t getting as warm as you’d hope it would. This usually shows itself in you wrapping up in blankets on the couch, and also in your heating bill. Considering adding more insulation to your home before you’re strapped with high heating bills.

Try Blown-In Insulation

When thinking about adding to existing structures, consider your options. You can start tearing away siding to open the walls or rip open your drywall. Or, you can go the route of blown-in insulation. Avoiding almost literally tearing the house down to insulate makes the most sense, and using blown-in insulation is a fairly easy process. You can rent an insulation blower and go the DIY route, or you can put the job in the hands of professionals. Here is the process that professionals will use, but they can serve as general guidelines for how to install blown-in insulation.

How To Install Blown-In Insulation

1. A technician will drill two rows of holes roughly every 16 inches, since most studs are placed at that distance. One row will be 12 inches from the ceiling, and the other will be three feet from the floor.

2. The technician will then blow mineral fiber or cellulose insulation into the walls using an insulation blower.

3. After all of the insulation is blown in and settled, the walls will be plugged either using plastic plugs or drywall compound and spackle. Your technician may or may not paint the walls after plugging the holes.

Keep in mind that blown-in insulation is not a perfect process, but it can be made better by using a professional service company. This type of insulation does not settle perfectly even, but professional technicians are familiar with feeling for obstructions such as wires and blocking. They are trained and experienced in creating workarounds for obstacles, which will help you get the most for your money when choosing blown-in insulation.

Find A Professional Who Can Insulate Your Home

For more information on blown-in insulation and choosing the right contractor for your home, visit TalkLocal. We will connect you with the professionals you need in just minutes, and our service is free!

Tags: blown in insulation
Posted in Handyman | No Comments »

Installing A Car Window

Sunday, July 21st, 2013

If any of your car’s windows are broken or even cracked, they will likely need to be replaced. Installing a car window is no simple process, but with the right tools and by following the proper steps, it can be done. A car’s window is made of two main components – the glass itself and the regulator inside the car’s door.

Installing A Car Window

1. To install a new window, you must first open the door itself, which can be done by removing the door’s inner trim panel.

2. With the car door open, use the window controls to roll the window all the way down. Remove the weather strip that seals the window and detach the door handle and window crank.

3. Using a flat bladed tool and screwdriver, pry off the handle bezel. If your car also has a window crank, you can try and remove this by wiggling it around with a cloth behind it to try and dislodge it.

4. Unscrew the screws on the door’s trim panel and lift the panel to release it from the retaining clips.

5. Unplug any electrical connections and pull it away from the door. Remove the water shield and any speakers that may be on the door.

6. It is now time to install the window regulator. Start by sliding the regulator through the door then twisting it into place. If the regulator needs the motor to be installed, you can fasten the motor onto the cable housing, put the fastener on, and then tighten the bolts. Secure the regulator on the door.

7. Place the window glass back into the car. Do this positioning the replacement window above the opening and carefully sliding it down.

8. Bolt the window into place, ensuring it is securely in place within the window regulator. With this done, it is time to begin reconstructing the window.

9. Reassemble the door by reconnecting all the various parts that were removed. Reattach these components before putting the water shield back in place.

Find A Mechanic

Clearly, this is no simple process. If you would prefer to have a professional take a look, consider using TalkLocal to find a capable auto-repairman for you. We will connect you with top-quality auto repair companies in your neighborhood within minutes. Just enter in your specific problem, location, and availability, and up to three companies will call YOU directly, saving you the time and stress of finding one yourself.

Posted in Auto Glass Repair | No Comments »

Creative Wainscoting Chair Rail Ideas

Sunday, July 21st, 2013

Chair rails are a molding usually placed at chair height to protect the walls from being damaged by chairs. This railing is often combined with wainscoting: smooth or grooved beadboard or shadow boxes made from narrow strips of decorative molding. Chair rails and wainscoting add dimension, depth, and architectural interest to any room, and can be installed solo or in a variety of combinations. To create a showcase room that takes wainscoting chair rail ideas from dated to dramatic, think outside the box. Check out these wainscoting chair rail ideas.

• Switch it around. Most wainscoting is installed on the lower third of the wall, topped by a chair rail. Install a grooved beadboard on the top third, instead. Paint the bead board white, the chair rail red, and the lower wall a deep navy for an instant nautical theme. Porthole shaped mirrors will complete the look.

• Paint the entire wall, including the chair rail and wainscoting, the same color to add a touch of luxury that does not conflict with your furniture and other design elements.

• Install mirrors within wainscoting frames to lend a sophisticated 1930’s art deco glamour. Paint the area around the frames a soft, shell pink or light, sky blue.

• Hang architecturally patterned, three-dimensional wall paper inside the wainscoting frames for extra impact and visual appeal. This works best in rooms without fussy furniture.

• Paint the entire wall one monochromatic color, and then match the chair rail and wainscoting to your existing trim color for a clean, modern look.

• For a shabby chic style, paint the chair rail and wainscoting with a key decorating color. Over-paint in white, and apply a crackle finish to allow the base color to peek through and add instant age and charm.

Need More Ideas Or Professional Help?

When considering a chair rail or wainscoting feature, remember that the sky is the limit. You can go color-crazy or keep everything understated. Use your existing home style, furniture and accessories to determine the best application of wainscotings and chair rails for your personal taste. TalkLocal will connect you with a reputable painter in your area in just minutes, so you can get them on the job of making your living room stand out.

Posted in Painters | No Comments »

How to Transfer Contacts between iPhone and Android Using Bluetooth

Sunday, July 21st, 2013

The iPhone 5 series allows individuals to download various applications for various tasks. The phone has various features, including the ability to transfer contacts from other handheld devices, like Android, using Bluetooth. This feature can be used effectively if users can download and install an application known as Beam It. The software allows individuals to transfer all their contacts from android devices eliminating the need for copying down all contact information. Here is how to transfer contacts between iPhone and Android using Bluetooth.

How To Transfer Contacts Between iPhone and Android

• Go to the app store icon on the iPhone 5 and search for Beam It. This application is available as a free download, and users can just touch the free button on the program description and then click the icon to begin the installation process. Enter the iTunes password if prompted. This mobile software can only work if it is installed on both devices.

• Turn on the Android’s Bluetooth. This is done by clicking the preferences button, followed by the general icon. From the list that will appear, touch the switch that will turn on Bluetooth.

• Open the Beam It application on both handheld devices. The user will be prompted to select the contact information they wish to transfer to the android device. If a user chooses the wrong contact information, they can click on the “i” button at the bottom of the screen and touch on the “my name is” button to change the choice.

• Touch the name of the recipient from the devices listed under “devices nearby.” The iPhone will connect with the recipient device. Once the connection has been made, the contact information will be automatically sent to the other device. The contact information can be saved on the other device by scrolling down the “options” and clicking on the “save” button.

Apple’s iPhone 5 phones can connect to Bluetooth devices within a certain range. The device has an internal chip which makes Bluetooth transfers possible. This allows users to send and receive information from one phone to another without the need for a direct connection.

Need Phone Help?

If the process of transferring data between an iPhone and other devices seems too technical or complicated, just use TalkLocal. We will find the professionals in your area who can help you, in just minutes!

Posted in Computer Repair | No Comments »

Massage Techniques For Pain

Sunday, July 21st, 2013

The rubbing of muscles may disrupt and relieve the feeling of pain in your body. Pain is a signal that travels from a pinched nerve through your nervous system. The nerves run from your skin deep inside your body and up your spine. In an instant, that electrical signal is traveling through your neck and into your brain. The brain receives the signal and tells you that something is wrong with the feeling of pain.

When certain massage techniques for pain are used, especially in the back and neck, it can release entrapped nerves. It can stop a signal from being generated, and it can ease the signal before it reaches your brain, thus relieving the pain.

Massage Techniques For Pain

Two of the most popular massage techniques for pain are known to reduce irritation in the body.

Hawaiian Lomi Lomi massage was once used for Hawaiian Royalty. Lomi Lomi massage practitioners use their entire bodies to massage your muscles. Lomi Lomi translates directly into “Masseuse.” It is a superficial massage. Oil is spread across the skin and long, light movements are used up and down the body, especially the back. The skin is invigorated with this touch, and the superficial nerves come to life. Blood then rises to the surface of the body, which heats and loosens entrapped nerves.

Swedish massage is the other of the two popular massage techniques for pain. The Swedish massage uses a variety of touches, but is known to be a deep tissue massage. You should not get a Swedish massage if you feel that deep, heavy touching will give you more pain. It is successful at reducing pain by increasing blood flow deep under the skin. This heats the body, flushes out toxins, and releases entrapped nerves.

Can Massage Relieve Your Pain?

To find that out, you’ll have to speak with a reputable massage therapist in your area. TalkLocal will connect you with up to three professional within minutes, so you can get the help you need, when you need it.

Posted in Massage Therapy | No Comments »

Fixing A Snow Blower

Sunday, July 21st, 2013

A white, winter wonderland isn’t exactly wonderful if you can’t get to where you need to go. Without a snow blower, that might be difficult to do. If you need help fixing a snow blower, you also need to make sure you know what’s wrong with it. This guide can help you diagnose and fix snow blower issues when you’re cleaning up after a storm in the winter.

What Kind Of Snow Blower Do You Have?

– Electric: These are much easier to maneuver and typically smaller and sleeker than others, but they don’t do well with big snow falls.

– Single-Stage: These are powered by a gas engine. They work well with wet and light snow, but you have to push it manually.

– Two-Stage: This gas-powered blower works well with serious snow drifts and heavily packed snow, but is very large and takes up a lot of space when not in use.

Problem: It doesn’t start.

Solution: Make sure the choke is properly positioned and aligned. Check the safety key and the spark plug. If these are all in order, your fuel is probably just too old. Fuel does go bad after a few months, and that may be the case with your snow blower. Top off the gas tank and you should be fine.

Problem: It starts! But then it stops.

Solution: Most likely, your spark plug wire is disconnected from the plug. If that doesn’t do the trick, make sure the gas cap is completely clear of snow. Dust the whole machine off of snow and make sure there is no ice covering any vents, because that would cause the machine to shut down.

Problem: It isn’t blowing the snow.

Solution: There are a few things that could cause your snow blower to stop blowing snow. If the snow is too slushy, it might be combining itself into little icy snowballs inside the chute. If this is the case, shut down the machine and use a stick or brush to knock the obstruction out of the chute. If it isn’t snow, it might be a stick or other object that is stuck in the auger.

Problem: It stutters and jumps.

Solution: You’re probably just going too fast. Slow it down and see if that works. If you find you’ve slowed down too much, you might want to check the auger for obstructions again.

Still Don’t Know How To Fix A Snow Blower?

Fixing a snow blower is really all about learning what kind of snow and landscape you’re working with. If you need help with your machinery or snow removal, we can connect you with professionals in your area. At TalkLocal, we take the work out of your search. Besides, you’d rather be on the couch with hot cocoa than dealing with a snow blower problem.

Posted in Snow Removal | 1 Comment »

Sitcom Pros We’d Never Connect You To In Real Life

Sunday, July 21st, 2013

Written by Dallea Caldwell

TalkLocal connects consumers in need to high-quality, top-rated, local professionals. Unfortunately, some of television’s most beloved “professionals” simply don’t apply. Here are some of the sitcom pros we’d never connect you to in real life. They may get our attention, but they won’t be getting our business. (more…)

Posted in Seva Call | No Comments »

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