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Monday, March 10th, 2014

If you own a boat, you are very fortunate. You get to spend quality time on it with friends and family members, de-stress, and enjoy your nautical hobbies. However, the regular boat maintenance routine can be quite time-consuming and challenging.

You can clean your teak boat on your own, or by relying on professional maid services. Either way, here are a few things that you should know about the cleaning process.

About How to Clean Teak Boats

When you clean teak surfaces, you have to attain 2 specific goals:

1) Remove mold and mildew (the gray or black top layer that is compromising the aesthetics of your teak surface).

2) Use special products to prevent extensive deterioration and keep the wood looking like new for a longer period of time.

Regular maintenance routines will help you preserve and even increase the resale value of your boat, while keeping it in excellent condition, without spending a fortune to achieve your goal.

Major No-No’s

Let’s mention some things that you’re not supposed to do when it comes to cleaning your teak boat.

a) Do not use a power washer: this practice is very rough on your teak surface; not to mention that it fails to kill mildew and mold spores. It just blasts away all the accumulated dirt and debris.

b) Do not use household bleach: this chemical compound will never help you get rid of mold spores in an effective manner.

c) Do not rely on TSP (tri-sodium phosphate): this cleaning agent is also less recommended for teak surfaces, since it fails to annihilate microorganisms that affect the wood.

Best Practices

There are two methods to clean a teak boat: with one-part cleaning agents and with two-part cleaning products.

The first option is much more appropriate in most cases, because the one-part chemical solution is mild and can provide the desirable results in less than 15 minutes, without affecting the teak in any way.

Two-part agents are a bit more aggressive and contain a neutralizer and a rather harsh acid. The acid can make your wood rougher. These products are less recommended, because of their potential impact on your boat and on the environment.

Ask an Expert

Find the best solution to your teak boat-cleaning problem by contacting a company that provides professional maid services. Find the best one with TalkLocal, your trusted connection to the best professionals in your area.

Tags: clean, teak boat
Posted in Maid Services, talklocal | No Comments »

Resizing Kitchen Cabinets

Monday, March 10th, 2014

Custom-made kitchen furniture can be quite expensive. If you want to reduce expenses without making any quality compromises, think about modifying factory-made cabinets that are usually extremely affordable. Resizing kitchen cabinets can be a simple task, as long as you follow all the right steps detailed below.

How to Resize Factory-Made Cabinets in a Few Easy Steps

You don’t need to rely on professional services provided by a handyman to resize your cabinets, as long as you have lots of spare time on your hands and a basic set of tools. For excellent results, just follow these simple guidelines:

1) Disassemble your old cabinets: remove all drawers, doors, and additional hardware pieces.

2) Using a power saw, eliminate excess depth from shelves and the rear of the old cabinet.

3) Reattach all components.

4) Using the same power saw, chop the plywood sheets to the right dimensions.

5) Install the smaller components, using nails or adhesives on the rear and on the sides of the cabinet.

6) Attach the lateral pieces and the back of the cabinet.

7) Remove the cabinet’s extension front, cut it and give it a nice finish; then reattach it using glue or nails.

8) Customize your extension drawer.

9) Resize the old drawers by chopping their sides and their bottom with the power saw. Cut as much as you need to ensure a perfect fit; then reattach the newly resized drawers using a nail gun or adhesive.

Ask for Help

Resizing kitchen cabinets can be quite a hassle, especially if you’re not a big fan of relatively complex DIY projects. If you want to simplify your mission, choose to hire a competent handyman. Find the best ones with TalkLocal, your reliable connection to reputable professionals. Use it on a daily basis to meet gifted professionals who live and operate near you.

Tags: Resizing Kitchen Cabinets
Posted in Handyman, talklocal | No Comments »

How to Fit PVC Windows

Friday, March 7th, 2014

Being able to fit your own windows at home can save you the cost of hiring professional window installation. Although this task can be quite challenging for the average do-it-yourselfer, with preparation and patience, you can successfully complete it. Here is some advice to help you get started on your PVC windows project.

Measuring

Getting the correct measurements of your window openings is a must. When taking measurements, you should measure the opening at the top, middle, and bottom both inside and outside the walls. Keep in mind that you cannot cut down PVC windows to size, so it’s crucial to get the size correct since you cannot alter the window to make it fit the opening if you got the wrong measurement.

If the window is a bit smaller than the opening, it will be easier to fit and just do something to disguise the extra space rather than the opposite if the window is too large. So, don’t rush. In fact, measure, and then check your numbers twice over.

Toeing and Heeling

Before actually installing the PVC windows, you have to “toe and heel” them which is simply bracing the window glass. Basically, the hinges of the window glass need to be adjusted on their planes horizontally, vertically, and laterally. By doing this, you will be able to move the sash away from the frame.

Do Not Over Tighten the Screws

Tightening the screws too tightly or over packing them can result in a bent framework, which would be costly to correct. So, resist the urge to screw the windows in too tight.

Getting an Extra Pair of Hands

It will be very difficult for one person to carry these heavy PVC windows and put them into position without help, so get someone to assist you with lifting and fitting the windows. If there’s no one in your household who can assist you, you can hire a contractor while keeping your costs to a minimum by simply hiring for the jobs that you really need help with, such as the heavy lifting.

Working Carefully

As with all other do-it-yourself projects, it’s crucial that you take your time in fitting your PVC windows. Make sure every stage of the process is done properly before moving to the next. Most remedial work is due to improper window installation. You don’t want to exert all this effort just to end up paying a professional to correct your mistakes.

Turn to a Pro

If this project seems too challenging for you to tackle, leave it to a professional contractor. TalkLocal can help locate qualified service professionals in your area within minutes. Get expert help quickly with TalkLocal!

Tags: PVC Windows
Posted in talklocal, Window Replacement | No Comments »

28 (Mis)Adventures: On Slowly and Perilously Careening on Icy Roads

Saturday, February 22nd, 2014

A blog about life experience and inexperience, by Dallea Caldwell

28 (Mis)Adventures: On Slowly and Perilously Careening on Icy Roads - Seva Team

Stupid. Stupid Saturn. Stupid Saturn stops suddenly. Stupid Saturn stops suddenly, sending us sliding, strategically swerving, and surprisingly… slamming into snow-covered snail-mailbox. That’s my version of the Bernstein B. Book — basically a beary child-oriented version of the Butterfly Effect. No pictures (nothing like an impromptu iWitness news report to make yourself seem insensitive as the passenger in a car accident), but here’s my Snowmageddon 2014 traffic report.

Careening on Icy Roads

I never imagined that careening out of control would be such a gruelingly slow process. I gradually came to terms with the realization that breaks were being applied but inertia stubbornly sustained the car’s already cautious momentum. Impact was not yet imminent with red tail-lights still seemingly several car lengths in the distance.

I slid my seat back and to an upright position to avoid bumping my knees and, once I felt evasive maneuvers taking place and saw the mailbox gradually align with our path, I leaned closer to the driver in a likely vain attempt to avoid shards of side-window glass upon impact.

I may have been over-thinking this, but the amount of calm, rational thinking I was able to accomplish and number of tasks I managed to execute prior to the eventual impact were astonishing.

The other astonishing part was just how much damage a snow-enforced mailbox was able to deliver. The red Hyundai absorbed the impact so that only a dull thud reached my bones, but the right head light, tire well, and hood were Hulk-smashed to shards and loose wires. And, of course, the mailbox itself stood headless with a snapped neck; but, it gave as good as it got.

Several people immediately rushed to our aid. I took the wheel as the driver and a stranger lifted the car out of the pile of snow. But, they also offered this disturbing advice: “If you’ve been drinking get the heck out of here.” We thought it was an indignant accusation and gave a resounding “No,” but realized they were speaking out of sincere concern for our legal well-being — as strange as it sounds.

The homeowner, however, wasn’t even half so kind, although almost as disturbing. He wouldn’t accept direct monetary compensation at all, demanding insurance handle a formal claim instead. He also screamed at us about the number of times his mailbox has been knocked over as if we were part of a conspiracy- a network of mail-box assassins targeting him and him alone.

Not content to simply waste our time and potentially drive up the driver’s insurance, his insistence on a formal police report was another part of his vengeance against all mailbox attackers.

I’m certain that with each mailbox accident, he builds the next to be stronger and more punishing than the last and will not stop until he sees blood on the temples of every wayward driver. I’ve got my eye out for a new brick mailbox by the end of the month. So, watch out on Rt 30 in southern Pennsylvania.

Getting Out of Trouble

Still, nothing like a hair-raising brush with death, timely road-side assistance, and a quick towing to make you count your blessings.

Take heed to this cautionary tale, and drive cautiously. But, if the worst happens, be assured that Seva Call is there for your towing and auto-repair needs. Visit www.talklocal.com or call 877.987.SEVA to get connected to live local pros in minutes.

Posted in Seva Team, talklocal | No Comments »

Why Celebrate Valentine’s Day, the Conspiracy by the Hallmark and Candy Industry?

Friday, February 14th, 2014

Written by Dallea Caldwell

Isn’t it ironic that the same people who claim not to “need a holiday to show people that they care” are the very ones who, without a romantic bone in their body, never manage to do so any other day of the year?

I mean, we don’t need a holiday to eat turkey and apple pie, but where are the complaints about that?

Why Celebrate Valentine’s Day?

Sure, romantic gestures and affectionate words are hollow when not matched by acts of love and fidelity. But, dismissing a holiday dedicated entirely to romantic gestures and affectionate words makes it seem as if people don’t need these things to feel cared for and appreciated. Newsflash: of course, they do!

Communication, a system of gestures and words, evolved because it’s the only way for people to understand how others feel…short of mind-reading.

Still, many people feel justified in ignoring this most glaringly opportune moment to show appreciation for loved ones, which begs the question: How many other less obvious moments do they let pass them by?

At bottom, discarding Valentine’s Day as just a so-called ploy by Hallmark and the candy and flower industries is no better an excuse than “I was tired”, “I was busy”, or “I had a lot on my plate”.

Placing love on the back-burner is never justified. But now, when the whole world (and yes, its corporations too) are agreeing to collectively place love #1 on everyone’s to-do list for once, ignoring that call is down-right unconscionable.

The day after Valentine’s Day is no more promised to us than any other day of the year.

So, even if…

– Expectations and pressures are higher than red pumps…

– Pink and red marketing campaigns bombard you earlier every year…

– You feel like a bull wearing rose-colored glasses…

– The compulsory nature better suits filing taxes than sharing a moment of profound warmth and connection..

…set aside time to celebrate love and your loved ones on Valentine’s Day, and promise to spend the rest of your year celebrating in various ways, as well. This Valentine’s Day is as good an excuse as any.

And, if V-Day is the perfect excuse for a couple’s massage, a limousine ride, or something else special, go to www.talklocal.com to make your Valentine’s Day planning experience something else to love.

Posted in talklocal | No Comments »

How to Save Energy on Hot Water Heating Costs

Monday, February 10th, 2014

Have you ever wondered how you could save energy on hot water heating costs? Check out this quick video for some helpful hints!

Created by SaveOnEnergy.com

If you have more questions or are having issues with your hot water heater, speak with a reputable professional today. TalkLocal will connect you with up to three professionals in your area in just minutes, so you can get the help you need when you need it!

Posted in Plumbers, talklocal | No Comments »

How to Refinish Wooden Doors

Monday, February 3rd, 2014

Your door may look old and rusty over time, which will reflect on the overall appearance of your property. Rain, snow, exposure to sunlight, and aging will eventually deteriorate your door. You can buy a new one or, more conveniently, refinish your old wooden door.

How to Refinish Wooden Door

If, instead of buying a modern fiberglass door, you have decided to recondition your seasoned one, let’s see what steps you should follow in order to do a good job. You can refinish wooden doors successfully if you pay attention to each of the following six stages:

1. First, remove the door from its frame. You may need a friend to help you.

2. Remove the paint from it using a paint remover.

3. Clean the paint remover using a scrapper.

4. Wipe the door down using towels.

5. Use sandpaper to clean the surface of the door, prior to any refinishing works.

6. Use a varnish based on oil to refinish it – it can do miracles.

When you choose to begin this home improvement project, you will need to remove the door. In order to keep it safe, it is recommended that you use a sheet to cover it. It can be difficult to support the door, but a friend should be enough to do the job.

Then, the old finish of your door is best removed with a paint remover, which you should apply repeatedly until you can see the surface of the wood.

Then again, this surface needs more cleaning, with the help of sandpaper. Only after this operation has been performed can you start refinishing, using an oil-based varnish.

Need Assistance?

If you’re not much of a DIY’er, and find this difficult and tiresome, a professional painter can do the job for you. Seva Call can put you in contact with several experienced professionals in your local area in no time.

Tags: refinish wooden door
Posted in Painters, talklocal | No Comments »

Quick Tips Before You Prepare Exterior of House For Painting

Tuesday, January 28th, 2014

Repainting the exterior of your house with a fresh coat of paint or even a new color is the simplest way to give your home an instant facelift without breaking the bank.

Choosing a Color Scheme

Go Classic: Most of the time, the tried-and-tested color combinations simply are the best. For example, bright white window frames and warm beige siding will never go out of style.

Bright Accents: You can use two different hues to create bright accents, such as painting your door a bright teal while giving window shutters a dusty gray color. This will work for homes that are covered in mostly one color like white or another neutral hue.

Contemporary: The combination of brown and steel gray will give your home a modern look. This color scheme is perfect for homes with wood sidings that are stained medium or dark brown, which adds contrast and helps soften the coolness of the gray paint.

Painting Tips

Knowing which colors to paint your house exterior is just half of the work. You need to make sure the actual painting is done flawlessly. Here are some tips to know before you pick up the paintbrush:

1) Always use quality paint. Low-quality exterior paint will not withstand weather conditions day-in and day-out. When you buy high-quality paint, you can expect it to resist fading and cracking even when it’s exposed to the sun and harsh temperatures.

2) Don’t skip sanding. It’s one of the most critical steps to ensure paint adhesion. Power wash the surface to be painted before sanding. Paint will not stick properly to a dirty and/or mildewed surface.

3) Primers exist for a reason: they make paint adhere better. Apply a coat of oil primer and then a coat of acrylic or latex paint for a strong seal.

4) If you have several paint cans of the exact same color, mix them together in a large container. By combining them, it will result in a uniform paint color.

5) Prevent paint streaks by working from the top to the bottom of a surface.

Fall is the best time to paint your house exterior, because the chances of rain are slim which allows the paint to cure properly. Humidity levels are also good in the fall, making it an ideal time to paint since high humidity can cause bubbling in the paint.

Call in a Pro for a Stress-Free Paint Job

Whatever exterior painting you need to get done around your home, you can find a reliable and experienced painter in your area with TalkLocal’s help. Contact us today and we’ll get you in touch with qualified professionals in no time.

Tags: House Painting Ideas
Posted in Painters, talklocal | No Comments »

3 Fantastic Financial Resolutions

Thursday, January 9th, 2014

People across the world start the New Year by setting goals they hope to achieve. A great way to improve is by planning your budget and finances for the upcoming year.

In planning and tracking your money, you can protect yourself from extraneous spending. By scaling back on purchases that may not prove to be beneficial, money can be saved for other important things. Here are a three powerful steps that you can take on as financial resolutions this year.

Separate Savings Accounts

When creating a budget, identify which assets will be saved for different situations. By allocating funds to a set number of accounts, you will be less likely to use that money for extraneous spending. Some great examples to begin saving for are retirement, college, and emergency funds. Continue to add and monitor each account so that you will be well-equipped for the future.

Track Your Spending

One of the best ways to cut extraneous spending is to keep track of what you do on a daily basis. Mark down your food, gas, clothes, and other expenditures. By writing and analyzing spending patterns, you can better determine what is beneficial and what is wasteful.

Examine Future Expenses

Sit down and look ahead at where your money will have to go this year. Categorize your fixed expenses, such as the mortgage, vehicle payments, and other bills. By assessing what you will have to spend money on in the future, you can plan better on how to use it today.

Assess Your Financial Goals

If you’re having trouble in planning and meeting your goals, contact a financial adviser. To find the one that is right for you, use TalkLocal. We will connect you with the most reputable financial advisers in your area who can help you get the most out of your money. TalkLocal will help you find the right professional who can provide the guidance you desire.

Posted in Accountants, talklocal | No Comments »

5 Great Money-Saving Online Tools

Monday, January 6th, 2014

Written by Dallea Caldwell

Time is money. Through exercise and healthy choices, you can make an investment of your time and watch it accrue interest, adding years to your life. With friends and family, you can spend time and gain something more valuable in return. And time, like money, can be wasted quicker than MC Hammer’s royalty payments.

The average American is online about 13 hours per week. That’s after the ol’ 9-to-5, the mind-numbing commute, and scrambling to pull a meal together. That’s almost 2 extra hours with us not being fully present with our children, friends, and family. Is that time invested, well-spent, or just wasted?

Here are some smart, money-saving online tools that save time and money- turning your web-browser into your command center for success.

Moneycrashers.com: The finance and lifestyle guidance blog lets you surf the web while staying on top of the tumultuous economic waves. Find out what’s new in money-saving and business development strategies, and explore under-appreciated takes on budget issues like the importance of financial role-modeling for your children.

GasBuddy: For once and for all, the executive branch has little-to-no control over the per barrel gas-prices. So quit voting with your gas tank and start comparison shopping. GasBuddy lets you compare has prices at stations near you, which can vary as much as 10%-20% from block to block.

Mint: Our least favorite friend Bill visits multiple times monthly and is never late. So, when he pays you a visit you didn’t prepare for… it’s you who pays most dearly. Mint is a free financial management service where you can track and classify your assets and expenses all in one place. It even notifies you when Bill comes a-knocking.

FreeCycle: Love free useful stuff, but feel weird trying to get it from your great aunt’s will? Then Freecyle is a great resource for shopping other people’s trash to get free treasures to call your own. Sure beats retail therapy, or trying to make up for three decades of completely ignoring older well-to-do relatives.

Bankrate: There’s nothing wrong with being a little (or a lot) calculating when it comes to making financial decisions like choosing the best credit card company/mortgage lender/etc. for you. Bankrate lets consumers review and rate financial service providers. It’s also equipped with a number of useful calculators for car loans, mortgages, and amortization/repayment schedules.

TalkLocal: We’d frankly be remiss if we didn’t mention that with zero required online research on your part, you can comparison shop between three top-rated service providers that match your schedule, location, and job needs. Our algorithm ensures that the cheapest will still be one of the best pros for you. Just enter your service needs and stand by for a phone call through a secure line. So, after only a couple of highly productive minutes, you’re already free to play BeJeweled or something.

No More Wasting Time on the Internet

If you’ve ever even heard of the internet (and you obviously have), then you know that knowledge isn’t necessarily power anymore. Like if, for example, your idea of being informed is knowing what flower girl dress Kim and Kanye bought for North. So, if your web-use primarily consists of Puppy Learns to Howl extended remix edition, then please stop — Hammer Time has run out.

Posted in talklocal | No Comments »

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