Archive for the ‘services’ Category

 

National Gardening Exercise Day: June 6th

Friday, June 6th, 2014

Written by Marianne Zhao

National Gardening Exercise Day: June 6th - Seva Call

June, the lovely month when the flowers bloom and the weather is ideal for days spent at the pool and outside.  June also happens to be the month of National Gardening Exercise Day (June 6th, to be exact).

What is this strange holiday?

Well, although it’s not as well known as July 4th or Labor Day, National Gardening Exercise Day is important to those who value the outdoors and personal health. It celebrates gardeners who want to stay in shape, combining aerobic movement with tending to plants.

If you fall in the category of an aerobic gardener or just want to hear more about this intriguing holiday, here are some typical activities done on National Gardening Exercise Day:

– Stretch before heading out into the garden (it is important that your muscles are warm)

– Alternate your movements; raking, mowing, weeding, digging, etc.  Change it up every 15 minutes or so

– Add physical challenges:

> squat while hoeing or weeding (be careful if you have bad knees)

> lunge and weed (don’t forget to switch legs)

> sit and weed (use your upper body to twist and stretch)

> don’t bend from your back, bend from the knees!

> remember to alternate your balance from left to right

How will you celebrate?

If this holiday shows you that you want to get in shape or add some new things to your garden, but you want to hit the gym and leave the gardening to a professional, TalkLocal has a wide network of personal trainers and landscapers. Submit a request at www.talklocal.com and get connected in seconds. Hope you enjoy this unique holiday!

HVAC System Average Cost Guide

Thursday, May 1st, 2014

shutterstock_194523560With summer coming in fast, any problems you may have had before with your heating, ventilation and air conditioning units must be fixed before the sweltering heat kicks in or the cool summer storms hit hard. Before calling the number of the first HVAC company that pops up on the Internet, it is important to know where you are at economically.

Beauty queen of only 18, she had some trouble with herself…I was always there to help her; she always belonged to someone else. Oh, I drove for miles and miles and wound up at your door…but, somehow, I want more!

Here are some quick price guidelines based off of the national average:

Repairing an A/C Unit: $545                           Installing an A/C Unit: $6,269

Installing Insulation: $1,965                            Installing Ducts & Vents: $1,490

Repairing a Heat Pump: $537                        Installing a Heat Pump: $5,832

Repairing a Ceiling Fan: $176                        Installing a Ceiling Fan: $337

Starting with this guide, and if you have a specific job in mind, you can request an estimate or quote from a company before you get the job done. talklocal can help you find the perfect company at your request by narrowing down the companies we have available, according to your specific needs and schedule.

Ready to Take the Plunge? Consider Installing a Glass Walled Swimming Pool

Wednesday, April 9th, 2014

Ready to Take the Plunge? Consider Installing a ‘Glass Walled’ Swimming Pool - Handyman

It’s the dream of many a new home owner to complete the picturesque yard with your very own pool. Catering for exercise enthusiasts, groups of giggling children, and party guests the swimming pool add a whole new level of functionality to a property adding to its value and desirability whilst cutting family expenses on trips to the public pool or pricey water parks.

Glass Walled Swimming Pools

One of the best designs has to be the glass walled swimming pool. Just think of the great action photos you can capture without an underwater camera. So, if you’re thinking about taking the plunge and installing a pool, consider the glass walled designs.

Undeniably, pools enhance the view of anybody’s house and make it more inviting to the guests, especially when it also allows viewing the surroundings whilst swimming or view happy swimmers under the water. Pools with glass windows have gained popularity globally for their great aesthetics and entertainment value.

The style of pool you choose is dependent on many factors but if children are likely to use the pool, a glass walled installation is recommended. Giving a much clearer observation of the swimmers, glass walled pools are much safer and should a problem occur it may be spotted earlier on, saving lives.

One overlooked benefit of a transparent pool is that it allows for better observation for coaching young swimming learners. Having a great view of your student moving through the water can hugely benefit the constructive feedback you give.

Let’s take a look at the benefits:

1.     Safety

2.     A better view of both the interior and the exterior of the pool

3.     Quicker installation

4.     Easier to clean

5.     Modern look and feel

6.     Provides diving coaches an unobstructed view

7.     It makes smaller pools look spacious as it introduces more light

8.     An elegant and stunning appeal

9.     Easy to facilitate video/photographing underwater

10.  Provides a new and exciting swimming experience

Professional Installation

The certified engineers at Premium Pools can assist you in choosing the right design, measurement and glass thickness. You can also add exciting water features to make your swimming experience more enjoyable.

Premium Pools has an extremely high customer satisfaction rate and offers warranty and after sales support. So, call now or visit the website at www.premierpools.com.au.

For any questions regarding installation or maintenance of a swimming pool, use TalkLocal to be connected with a reliable professional in your area in just minutes.

Car Cleaning DIY

Friday, April 4th, 2014

Now that the snow is gone for the next several months (hopefully), it’s time to give your car that perfect shine for spring! This is the perfect way to spend a nice afternoon outside, without spending a whole lot of money. Learn some great tips for cleaning your car without leaving water marks, soap deposits, or scratches on the paint.

Car Cleaning DIY Guide

Check out this great car cleaning DIY guide!

And don’t forget, if you would like a professional car wash for your vehicle, just use TalkLocal. We’ll connect you with up to three car wash services in your area directly. Leave the searching to TalkLocal!

Car Cleaning DIY - Car Wash

Follow the above steps to give your car a deep clean. And remember, TalkLocal can connect you with the right professionals when you need them most!

This infographic was published on behalf of Southside Motor Factors: http://www.smf.ie/products/car-parts-accessories.146.html.

3 Ways to Get Fit and Stay Fit for the New Year

Wednesday, April 2nd, 2014

3 Ways to Get Fit and Stay Fit for the New Year - Personal Trainers

The new year is well under way, and you resolved to stay fit and eat healthy! But unlike last year, it’s actually going to stick. Here are 3 ways to get fit and stay fit for the new year.

Start with Small Goals

When a new year begins, do you set high weight loss goals and eventually lose that momentum by the end of the year? The truth is, setting extremely high goals with strict guidelines does set you back in the long run. Your unreasonable goals may cause you to give up early.

You can lose more weight without feeling deprived from your favorite foods or feeling tired and sore from workouts by adding small changes to your daily routine that increase exercise and improve diet.

Then, when 2015 comes around, maybe you won’t be inventing new weight loss goals for you to quit!

Cardio

You may already know that weight loss occurs when you burn more calories than you take in. Cardio exercise is a great way to burn calories. Cardio doesn’t have to involve running on a treadmill or going to the gym.

Walking your dog, participating in a Zumba class, or even mowing the lawn can burn hundreds of calories. Start off with 3 to 4 days of low-intensity cardio exercise each week, and build your way up to 5 to 6 days of high-intensity cardio.

Portion Control

Losing weight doesn’t mean you have to cut out your favorite foods! By monitoring your portion control, you can still indulge in your favorite ice cream or muffin.

WebMD states that Americans underestimate how many calories they consume each day by as much as 25%. The Nutrition Facts label on all packaged foods contains a serving size. First, look at the label and try to stick with the suggested serving size. Eventually, your body will adjust to eating smaller portions.

Need Fitness Advice?

Losing weight on your own isn’t easy! Personal trainers can give you personalized diet and exercise advice in order to complete your goals. Find your local personal trainer using TalkLocal. We’ll connect you with up to three local trainers in just minutes!

Why Can’t I Delete a File?

Wednesday, April 2nd, 2014

Why Can't I Delete a File? - Computer Repair

Not being able to delete a file can get really annoying. The worst part is that, you don’t know why it won’t get deleted!

If you’re asking yourself, “why can’t I delete a file?”, here are some answers that may help you out.

“Why Can’t I Delete A File?!”

There can be many reasons as to why you are not able to delete a file. The most common reason is that it is probably being used by another program while you are trying to delete it.

In order to check for this, open Task Manager by pressing Control+Alt+Delete (to open the Windows menu) or Control+Shift+Escape (to open the Task manager directly). Under the Tasks tab, you will be able to see which programs and folders are currently running. You will also be able to close any programs that may be using a file you wish to delete.

If this doesn’t work, you can use the recovery console. Put the OS CD into your drive and boot up your computer. When the set-up screen appears, press ‘R’ for recovery console. You should now be able to navigate to the file and delete it.

If this also doesn’t work, you can use Unlocker,which is a very useful freeware which unlocks any file being used by windows. Once the file has been unlocked with Unlocker, you can delete it.

If you do not recognize a particular file, and you are not able to delete it using any of these methods, there is a chance that the file was planted on your computer by a virus or malicious software. Run a trusted malware program to check.

Having File Trouble?

If you need further help with deleting a file on your computer, you might want to speak with a professional computer technician. TalkLocal will connect you with up to three computer experts in your area over the phone. Then, you can choose which professional you would like to speak with. Try TalkLocal now!

Why Install Granite Mailbox Post?

Wednesday, April 2nd, 2014

Why Install Granite Mailbox Post? - Handyman

Usually, when people mention granite, what they have in mind are stylish and expensive kitchen countertops. However, granite is so much more versatile and can actually be used outside of the house right in your yard to boost your home’s curb appeal.

You can incorporate granite in your yard in several ways, without having to do a major landscape makeover. Some wonderful granite additions include granite benches, steps, and even birdbaths. One easy way to add a classy touch to your yard would be to install granite mailbox post to replace your existing wooden or metal one.

Benefits of Granite

After this winter, there’s no better time to fully appreciate the reasons why you would want to install a granite mailbox post. With a granite post, you no longer have to worry about the snowplows destroying your mailbox, which is obviously a risk with wooden posts. Obviously, granite makes an extremely durable mailbox post. It’s a hard rock with coarse grains and consists of interconnecting minerals. Once you install a granite mailbox post properly, it’s meant to be there in your front yard for good.

Aside from being naturally beautiful, granite weathers remarkably well over time. Moreover, granite requires very little upkeep and maintenance. So, it stays undamaged by ice melting substances, like mineral rock salt and melting crystals. To clean your granite mailbox post, simply brush it with a stiff scrub brush and soapy water.

Buying a Granite Mailbox Post

Most people have a mistaken belief that anything made of granite is pricey. In the case of granite mailbox posts, this is simply not true. They can be affordable if you buy from a large producer of granite products. Although light gray is the typical color associated with granite, it is actually available in other colors such as dark gray, almost black, and light shades of pink. There are also various options when it comes to finishes, including the standard rough or thermal finish, rock face, or sawed. Your granite supplier may also offer custom lettering to add your street number or family name on your mailbox post.

Let a Pro Install Your Granite Mailbox Post

If you would like to ensure proper mailbox post installation, call a professional handyman. TalkLocal will search for and connect you with three professionals who can install your mailbox post the right way. Try our easy-to-use and free service now!

Finding a Great Tailored Shirt

Wednesday, April 2nd, 2014

Finding a Great Tailor Shirt - Tailors

Both men and women who want to look very professional at work invest a whole lot of money in custom-made shirts. Most people are asking themselves the following question: How could I find the most talented designer and the most appealing tailored shirt designed to look amazing for the longest period of time, without burning deep holes in my pocket?

Pay attention to the Most Important Elements

If you don’t want to shop from commercial designers and you’d rather opt for services provided by a local tailor, focus your entire attention on a few elements that make the difference between a trendy, well-made shirt and a disposable one:

a)    Fabrics

b)    Accessories

c)    Product design

d)    Style counseling

Undoubtedly, it is important to contact a specialist who designs beautiful shirts manufactured from premium materials. Choose the best fabrics by using the following selection criteria:

– Fabric color

– Weave (Poplin, Oxford, Dobby, Linen)

– Fabric pattern (stripes, checks, solid, prints)

– Thread counts (60-80, 80-100, 100-120, 120-140, 160, and 200)

Go for Fabulous Designs and a Perfect Fit

Most importantly, a shirt should accentuate your best features and fit you perfectly. Choose to collaborate with a tailor who will always offer you free alterations or the possibility to exchange your suit within the first 2 months after your purchase. Moreover, ask your tailor to send you some of his/her best fabric samples to help you make the most inspired decision.

Ask for Help

If you want to take pride in a fashionable, highly resistant, custom-made tailored shirt, it is advisable to talk to a real pro in this line of work. Call the best tailors and compare their services with help from TalkLocal, a free service allowing you to meet competent specialists who live and work in your area.

Inground Pool Cleaners vs. Professional Cleaning Services

Wednesday, April 2nd, 2014

Inground Pool Cleaners vs. Professional Cleaning Services - Maid Services

A swimming pool is one of the most enjoyable areas you can have in your own home. It’s an indulgence that can be enjoyed by your entire family and your guests. However, it requires certain responsibilities. It must be cleaned, maintained, and serviced regularly. Otherwise, you can have major problems with your pool and it won’t be fun using it at all.

More than Basic Cleaning

Now, you may think that’s what inground pool cleaners are for. This equipment is a good investment, but it is certainly not enough to maintain your pool. You also have to keep the correct chemical balance of your pool water and have certain pool equipment, like the pump and filter, serviced periodically.

A professional cleaner can do much more than what a robot can. A professional cleaner would be able to handle other important chores, such as balancing the water chemistry of your pool. Pump and filter inspection is also part of regular pool cleaning service, which is vital in keeping your pool in good condition.

Ensure Thorough Cleaning

While inground pool cleaners do a relatively good job of cleaning a pool, they usually don’t get every square foot of the surface area on the initial cycle. Hiring a professional cleaning service is an important part of any pool maintenance program because it ensures a more thorough removal of debris, grime, and particulate buildup from the water. It’s just like how home carpet cleaning differs from professional cleaning.

Check for Problems

Inground pool cleaners may crawl along the entire floor of your pool, but they will not be able to inspect it for leaks or any cracked tiles. Professionals would be able to do this and recommend a solution.

Bottom Line

The bottom line is that purchasing pool cleaning equipment is perfectly fine. Professional cleaners use their own tools and devices to do their job. However, you cannot rely completely on using equipment such as inground pool cleaners to keep your pool clean and safe throughout the year.

If you’re wondering where to find a good pool cleaning service, TalkLocal can help with your search. Contact us now and we’ll connect you with professional cleaners who provide the quality services that you need.

Snow Tires Effectiveness

Tuesday, April 1st, 2014

Snow Tires Effectiveness - Snow Removal

If you want to drive safely during the cold season, it is highly advisable to invest in durable, high-quality snow tires (also called winter tires) launched on the market by some of the most respectable manufacturers. Do your homework properly to learn how to assess snow tires effectiveness and make an informed decision.

Why Do I Need Snow Tires in the First Place?

You may be tempted to think that people who do not live in areas impacted by harsh winters and abundant snowfalls do not need to purchase and install snow tires. In this case, you are wrong. Snow tires ensure safer, more enjoyable trips and help you get from point A to point B faster and with minimal effort, because they keep a strong grip on icy surfaces or on surfaces covered with snow. In other words, snow tires offer you the certainty that you won’t be stuck and enable you to steer and stop in a risk-free manner.

Do I Really Need to Replace My All-Season Tires during the Cold Season?

If you don’t want to take any chances, the answer is yes. If you have to drive on a daily basis in all kinds of weather conditions, winter tires should be considered a must-have. You should know that snow tires effectiveness varies a great deal according to several factors including quality, technology used in the manufacturing process, tread, and tire pressure.

Ask an Expert

To maximize the effectiveness of your tires, check your tire pressure regularly and make sure it meets the guidelines that come with your automobile. Reducing your tire pressure won’t help you profit from a better grip on icy surfaces — this is just a myth. Moreover, when it comes to installing a new set of tires, place the ones with a better tread on the rear of your car; this will enable you to prevent accidents.

If you need more info on snow tires effectiveness, just consult a snow removal expert. Find the best one in your area with TalkLocal, a free service created to help you track competent, local specialists in no time.