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Archive for 2013

Saturday, May 25th, 2013

How annoying is it when you are using your computer and something gets stuck on your desktop? What if it was the sound level control? Now, not only are you listening to something at the wrong level, but you cant get the box to go away either! Well there is a way fix it when the sound level control is stuck on the desktop.

Why Things Get Stuck On the Desktop

When running Windows XP, a stuck sound level control seems to be a very common problem. The issue seems to be that there is no way to remove them. This problem may be a result of a slow computer system. It could also be because the sound check takes a while to load from the systray, due to how many processes are working in the computer. Instead of clicking around over and over, you should wait and give your computer time to react.

How To Fix A Stuck Sound Level Control

If you give your computer a reasonable amount of time to catch up and nothing continues to happen, you should move on to take other steps. Try to right-click on the volume in the icon tray to see if you have a choice to close or exit. You could also try to open the dialogue box and see if the problem could be fixed from there. Another recommendation is to hit ALT+F4 to close the current window.

Computer Troubles Slowing You Down?

If you cannot seem to get this issue resolved it may be time to get help. If you are looking to get in contact with a professional computer repair technician, go to TalkLocal. Just tell us your problem, your availability, and your location, and we will do the rest. Within minutes you will be connected to a reliable, local technician who can help you out.

Posted in Computer Repair | No Comments »

Install A Wrought Iron Gate

Saturday, May 25th, 2013

Adding a wrought iron gate to your fence can add a very unique touch of beauty. These gates are known for their simple elegance with twists and turns featured in the iron that end in points and various designs.

Although it may seem difficult, learning how to install a wrought iron gate is a do-it-yourself project. By following some simple steps, you can have the beauty of a wrought iron gate in your yard.

What you need:

– The gate

– End plates

– Hinges

– Bolts, nuts, and washers

– Ball bearings

– A friend or helper

How To Install A Wrought Iron Gate:

1. Bolt the end plates to the end posts. To do this, make sure the holes drilled in your posts are sufficient for the wrought iron gate’s end plates. That means the plates have to be able to fit over the holes properly.

2. Each plate has four holes so it can support two hinges. Use a small washer under each bolt and tighten them by hand.

3. Next, attach the hinges. You can do this by sliding one of the hinge bolts into each of the holes on each of the gate’s panels. Make sure you add a nut and a washer to each one. You want the bent head of each bolt to point downward. Rotate them if you need to.

4. Take a ball bearing and place it in the barrel of each hinge plate. Have your friend help you by holding the gate panel so you can lower the hooks of the hinge bolts into place in the hinge plate barrels.

5. Make sure the gate is hanging level by tightening or loosening the nuts with a wrench accordingly. Be careful not to over-tighten — that will make the gate harder to move. Grease the hinges, too.

Looking For Help?

With these steps, you will be left with a new wrought iron gate in your yard. If you have more questions about the process or how to pick out a wrought iron gate, TalkLocal can connect you with the professionals in your area who can help. Try our fast and free service to save you time and energy.

Tags: iron gate, wrought iron gate
Posted in Handyman | No Comments »

Symptoms Of A Sick Tree

Saturday, May 25th, 2013

It isn’t always easy to tell whether a tree is dead, sick, or healthy. If the tree is dead, you need to cut it down, but if is just sick, there may be hope. Looking for the symptoms of a sick tree can be tricky. These five areas of the tree are your road signs.

When looking for symptoms of a sick tree, you want to:

Check the leaves: If it isn’t autumn and your leaves are dropping in high volume, or if they are dropping too quickly or in larger amounts than usual, the tree is likely sick. If the leaves are not dropping off, but they are discolored or shriveling up, that is also a symptom of a sick tree.

Examine the branches: If your branches are falling off, that is one of the primary symptoms of a sick tree. Of course, strong winds and storms can knock them off, but sick trees usually drop branches more than usual. They are usually bare of leaves when they drop as well. If you inspect the branches closely, you might even be able to see signs of tree rot or insect damage, which would explain the sickness in your tree.

Look at the trunk: You do not want any holes or dents in your tree trunk. Although they might make cozy homes for forest friends, they are a sure sign of a dying tree.

Check the bark: A healthy tree has healthy bark. Healthy bark is usually flexible and soft. A sick tree’s unhealthy bark may be brittle, scratchy, or even falling off. Bald spots are a symptom of a sick tree.

Don’t forget the roots: A lot of things could hurt the roots, from water to the lawn mower to your kids’ toys. If the roots are damaged, the whole tree is in danger. Check to make sure they are not flooded or scratched in any way.

You Might Require A Tree Removal Service

If all five of these symptoms of a sick tree check out, your tree might not be sick after all. It never hurts to get a professional opinion when dealing with a tree that could potentially be dangerous if it does die and fall over. TalkLocal can connect you to local professionals in your area to help you take care of your sick or dying trees.

Posted in Tree Removal | 3 Comments »

Fastest Methods To Paint A Room

Saturday, May 25th, 2013

A fresh coat of paint can make an older home look brand new. It will cover up nicks and scuffs, and can brighten or warm the feel of a room. Giving the interior of your home a facelift, even when you are crunched for time, is as easy as applying a new coat of paint. Here are the fastest methods to paint a room:

Hire a professional. Although costly, professionals will paint your rooms quickly and will do an excellent job. Best of all, no backbreaking work for you!

Frame the room first. Paint the edges of the walls first because these take the most effort and time. Once you get to painting the larger areas of the wall, you will be able to cruise through it.

Only frame rooms for which you are certain you have enough paint. If you frame a room and then find that you do not have enough paint, the new paint you buy may not match exactly. This will cost you in time painting over the mismatched paint.

Consider technology. While a regular paint roller provides faster clean up than a more high-tech device, it takes quite a bit of time to reapply paint, dab off excess and paint over thin spots. Consider using a roller with a reservoir. These new-fangled rollers hold a certain amount of paint in them. The only time you need to stop is to refill, and you won’t have to worry about blotting off excess paint.

Hire unpaid help. These are also known as friends and family. Make food and buy beverages to entice friends and family to pitch in. The more people that help, the quicker the job will be.

Considering Option No. 1?

If your project is just too big for you to handle, call a professional. Qualified painters will know the fastest methods to paint a room and will do so with a high-quality workmanship. TalkLocal can find a painter in your area for you, and we will not charge you a dime. You will be on the phone with a professional in minutes.

Posted in Painters | No Comments »

Install Wrought Iron Fence

Friday, May 24th, 2013

Although they are typically used for safety and privacy, fences add to your home’s aesthetic value. No one wants an ugly fence. Those beautiful fences you often see in which the iron features various shapes on top are called wrought iron fences. Learning how to install wrought iron fence in concrete is not terribly difficult, and it can add a lot of beauty to your home.

How To Install Wrought Iron Fence

1. Use wrought iron fence mounting brackets. These can be purchased at most home renovation stores. Mount these to the posts on the bottom using the screw mounting system that they come with.

2. Put your wrought iron fence together and place it where you want it to go. You want to make sure the line is clearly marked on the concrete. When it is, you can take off the mounting brackets from the posts.

3. Now you want to take those mounting brackets and put them on each location mark. Mark the hole in the middle so you know where to drill later.

4. Use a hammer drill with a masonry bit to drill that center hole you just marked.

5. Now, you want to take your masonry anchors and run them through the holes in the concrete.

6. Put the mounting brackets over the anchors and secure them with the screws on the anchors. You can just use a screwdriver for this step.

7. You can then place the wrought iron fence back into the mounting brackets. After it’s placed properly, you can secure it into place with the screws on the mounting brackets.

If The Job Is Too Big…

This is just a quick, seven-step guide on how to install wrought iron fence, which can help you understand the basics of the process. You might have more questions or desire guidance from a professional. In that case, TalkLocal can connect you with the appropriate professionals in your area.

Tags: iron fence, wrought iron fence
Posted in Handyman | No Comments »

Benefits Of Cam Locks

Friday, May 24th, 2013

You might already be using cam locks to keep your valuables secure and not even know it. These are small, circular locks that are used to secure everything from drawers, cabinets and furnishings all the way to high-security display cases or vending machines. As you can probably tell, cam locks are used for a wide array or purposes because they are incredibly secure.

Security is just one of the many benefits of cam locks. Here is a rundown on many of the advantages tied to investing in cam locks.

Security

Cam locks can be made from a variety of materials, but one thing remains the same: cam locks are extremely tough pick. The pick resistant design is one of the huge benefits of cam locks because it ensures that thieves will not be able to gain access to your drawer, cabinet or any other space.

Cam locks can be made to facilitate a larger variety of keys, including:

– Flat keys

– Rounded keys

– Tubular keys

Finally, since cam locks come in such a variety of sizes, they can be used to lock many different things. The same could not be said for traditional locks and keys, which often occupy a good amount of space.

Style

Who says you have to compromise style in the name of security? Cam locks are very versatile and can come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials. These locks can mesh well with the rich-looking wood work of a desk or cabinet without compromising the aesthetic appeal.

Weather Resistant

Due to its rotating disc cylinder technology, cam locks will remain unharmed by the elements. This comes in handy if you are using a cam lock for something outdoors. You will never have to worry about the inner workings of the lock corroding or freezing in the cold temperatures.

Easy To Install

While it might sound like cam locks are incredibly intricate and technical, they are notoriously easy to install. The installation process is simple and you will find yourself able to set them in place on your own.

Use Seva Call To Find Help

Now that you know the benefits of cam locks, you may be interested in installing some of your own. Whether you are on the lookout for a locksmith or a general handyman to help out, TalkLocal has you covered. We will find you a qualified professional in just 90 seconds. It is really that easy.

Tags: locks
Posted in Locksmiths | No Comments »

Tax Effects Of Buying Or Selling A Business

Friday, May 24th, 2013

The tax effects of buying or selling a business might be dramatic enough to sway your decision one way or the other. This is certainly something to consider, whether you are buying or selling a small business that operates out of a home or a large business that involves big money.

Here are a few things to consider when trying to determine the tax effects of buying or selling a business.

Business entity

For those that run an LLC or sole proprietorship, the process is relatively simple — at least, in terms of selling the business. The amount of money you make on your business will be taxed at your personal rate. If this is an LLC with multiple partners, the percentage of each partner’s profit will be taxed at their personal level. This picture can get a little murky when it comes to, say, an S-Corp or C-Corp.

Tax-Free Maneuver

Normally, buying and selling a business is a taxable transaction because money exchanges hands. However, if the two sides are merely trading stock, both sides could avoid the traditional tax effects of buying or selling a business. This is an arrangement you might see when a big corporation buys out a small business. The smaller business could exchange their stock for a stake in the corporation.

You can also structure a taxable asset or stock transaction deal, which is fairly common.

Taxes Involved With Buying A Business

If you purchase a business, you actually do not owe the federal government anything in taxes on the exchange. However, you will have some tax concerns.

When you purchase the company, you will also inherit all of that company’s tax liabilities. This includes any outstanding bills or pending tax audits. So, this does not allow you to skirt tax issues all together.

Get Accounting Advice

Discussing all of the tax effects of buying or selling a business would take a very, very long time. The truth is, taxes are a complicated process, which is why it is essential to seek the right help. Local accountants can help you muddle through the complex process of taxes. Use TalkLocal to help you find the proper help. We offer a free service that shows results — and fast.

Posted in Accountants, talklocal | No Comments »

How To Replace the Power Supply On A PC Or Mac

Friday, May 24th, 2013

There is nothing worse than pressing your computer’s “On” button and getting no response. Before you go into complete panic mode over files that may have been lost, learn how to replace the power supply on a PC or Mac.

How To Replace the Power Supply On A PC Or Mac

1. Try plugging your computer into other electrical outlets to make sure you are using a working outlet. If you check multiple outlets without any success then you probably need to replace your computer’s power supply.

2. Turn off your computer. Make sure your computer is turned completely off and is unplugged before you begin taking it apart.

3. Remove the case of the computer by removing the screws with a simple Phillips screwdriver. Locate the power supply inside the case and identify the necessary wattage. The power supply is the large metal box mounted in your computer where you AC power cord plugs into. The wattage for your new power source should either equal or exceed the original power source wattage.

4. Purchase a new power supply. Bring your computer’s power supply information to a local computer or electronics store. If you have a Mac it is probably easiest to visit your local Apple store. Prices vary depending on your computer’s age and brand.

5. Remove your old power supply and install your new one. For easier access, turn your computer onto its side. Remove the power supply by unscrewing the screws from the mounting holes. Set the power supply to the side without detaching any cables or connectors.

6. Next, slide your new power supply into the case so that the mounting holes line up. Secure your new power supply in place by using the removed screws. One by one, carefully remove each connector from the old power supply and attach it to the same location on the new power supply. Once everything is secured you can screw the cover back onto the case.

7. Test out your new power supply. When everything is back in place you can try plugging your AC power cord into a nearby outlet. Turn on your computer and you should be ready to go! Remember to back up any valuable files so that you don’t lose them if another emergency pops up.

Still Need Help?

If you still need help with your computer’s power supply, or you want a professional to install a new one for you, just use TalkLocal. We’ll connect you with up to three, high-quality computer repair technicians in your area. Seva Call will find the help you need in just minutes, for free!

Posted in Computer Repair | No Comments »

Best Roof Shingles

Friday, May 24th, 2013

Roof shingles protect your home from the elements. However, curled, cracked, or missing shingles can lead to serious damage to your home if you do not replace them immediately. The best roof shingles for your home will depend on the aesthetics you desire and where you live.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most common type of roof shingles. These shingles are very budget-friendly and come in various colors and sizes. They fair well in hot and cold weather. Although they have a shorter lifespan than other shingles, proper installation and maintenance can help them last a long time.

Metal Shingles

Metal shingles are ideal for warmer, drier climates. Unlike asphalt shingles, metal shingles do not provide grip, so snow will slide off onto the head of an unsuspecting passerby or onto your freshly shoveled driveway. Metal shingles tend to be more durable than asphalt, and should ideally last as long as 20 years. However, metal shingles will also be prone to rust, which could lead to leaks.

Cedar Shingles and Ceramic Shingles

Cedar and ceramic shingles are typically more expensive than asphalt, but can also be more aesthetically pleasing. Cedar shingles can rot if not properly maintained, but otherwise have a long lifespan. Ceramic shingles also have a long lifespan, but both of these types of shingles are more common in warmer climates.

Find A Professional Roofer

Not only do you need the best roof shingles, but you also need a professional roofing contractor to properly install the shingles. Make sure the contractor you hire is certified and uses the best materials to protect your home. Improper installation can turn the best roof shingles into poor protection for you home.

If you are looking for a roofing contractor to install the best roof shingles on your home, use TalkLocal. We can connect you in seconds with quality roofers in your area, for free!

Posted in Roofers | No Comments »

Throw A Memorable Celebration For Memorial Day

Friday, May 24th, 2013

Written by Jaime Fawcett

All of us at Talklocal want your coming weekend to be a celebration with family and friends, to help remember all those who have fought and are still fighting over seas. We’ve got a list of decorating ideas, recipes, and tips to help you throw a memorable celebration for Memorial Day.

Flowers of Red, White, and Blue

One of the oldest traditions for Memorial Day is leaving flowers. Contact your local florist to find wonderful arrangements to leave for someone you’d like to remember. Make your own memorial with a loved one’s favorite flower, pictures, and wreaths to keep them present at home. If you’re not quite ready to bust out the Fourth of July decorations, buy smaller arrangements of red tulips, white daisies, and blue lilies to give a patriotic flare for the backyard barbecue.

Cool Foods

Memorial Day is the first holiday to reign in the new warm spring weather. While you’ll probably be heating up over the hot grill cooking burgers and dogs, cool down with some delicious cold foods. Try some of these delicious and refreshing recipes.

Antipasto Salad

Ingredients

Red Wine Vinaigrette:

1 bunch fresh basil, stemmed and leaves chopped (about 2 cups)

1/4 cup red wine vinegar

1 clove garlic

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

Antipasto Salad:

1 pound fusilli pasta

1/2 cup hard salami, cut into strips (about 3 ounces)

1/2 cup smoked turkey, cut into strips (about 3 ounces)

1/4 cup provolone cheese, cut into strips

1/4 cup grated Asiago cheese

2 tablespoons green olives, halved and pitted

2 tablespoons roasted red peppers, cut into strips

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Directions

Vinaigrette: In a blender, add the basil, vinegar, garlic, mustard, salt, and pepper. Blend until the herbs are finely chopped. With the machine running, drizzle in the olive oil until the dressing is smooth.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta and cook until tender but still firm to the bite, stirring occasionally, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain pasta.

In a large bowl, toss together the cooked pasta with the remaining salad ingredients. Drizzle with dressing and toss to coat. Serve.

Red White and Blue Fruit Salad

Directions

Mix 2 cups each of sliced strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries. Sprinkle lightly with sugar. Add whipped cream on top when serving. Easy to halve, double, or triple depending on how many you’re cooking for.

Mayo-Free Potato Salad

Directions

Cook 3 pounds sliced red potatoes in salted simmering water for about 8 minutes. Drain, then toss with 1/4 cup each chicken broth and white wine; let sit 5 minutes. Whisk 1/3 cup white wine vinegar, 3 tablespoons dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon poppy seeds and a pinch of sugar in a bowl; whisk in 1/2 cup olive oil, and salt and pepper. Toss with the potatoes, then chill 2 hours. Top with chives.

Let TalkLocal Help You Plan the Perfect Party!

Hosting a large party? Look for a party planner or caterer to help decorate and serve finger foods throughout the event to supplement home cooked dishes.

Want to fix up? If a few backyard projects slipped your mind hire a handyman to mow the lawn, trim the hedges or give the deck a fresh staining before your guests arrive. Talklocal can find the right professionals to help you throw a memorable celebration for Memorial Day.

Tags: holiday, memorial day
Posted in Seva Call | No Comments »

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