How to Clean Teak Boats

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
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How to Plan a Deck with Teak Patio Tiles

Friday, March 7th, 2014

Designing a new deck or outdoor living space can be exciting. Secluded away in your backyard, you could make your own sanctuary that lets you escape the bustle of everyday life and just relax. Teak patio tiles make creating a new deck quick and simple. However, as with any deck-planning job, there are a few steps you need to take to ensure your patio turns out perfect.

Get a Permit

Most likely, your city or county will require a permit to build a deck in your backyard. Check with your local building authority before you start building the deck and obtain the necessary permits and licenses.

Pick Where You’ll Build Your Deck

Plan the size of your new deck and then decide where it will go in the backyard. Will it be directly in the sun? If so, are you going to make a covered deck or use a covered table set somewhere? If you can, measure and mark out the deck in your backyard so you can see how much space your new deck will take up.

Pick Out Your Teak Patio Tiles

Teak tiles come in a variety of styles and finishes. You can choose from a golden-brown to reddish-brown shade depending on what matches the rest of your house. If you already have a deck and you’re adding on, pick a teak tile shade that closely resembles what you already have.

Build Your Base

Teak tiles build the surface of your deck, but you’ll need a sturdy base to put them on. Dig out the footings for your deck deep. Remember that your footings support the weight of your deck. Also, check with your city’s codes for decks to see how deep down your footings need to go. Depending on your climate, you might have to dig deeper than manufacturer specifications.

Follow Teak’s Instructions

Teak patio tiles come with specific instructions for installation. Follow those instructions for your deck. Since they’re pre-designed, you can place them without having to fuss over whether or not your design is straight or in-line with the other pieces.

Need Assistance?

Building a deck is easier with Teak tiles, but sometimes you need the expertise of a professional to build the base. Try contacting TalkLocal today to be put in contact with a landscape professional in your area who can help make your deck extraordinary.

Tags: teak patio tiles
Posted in Landscapers | 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 »

How to Compare Tankless Water Heater Prices

Friday, March 7th, 2014

Tankless water heaters are becoming more popular with homeowners, especially those who are energy conscious and are looking to conserve. However, these tankless options are also growing in popularity because of space. Not all homeowners want a large tank sitting in their basement or closet taking up space, which makes a tankless water heater ideal.

If you’re in the market for a new water heater, you’re going to see many tankless water heaters. Comparing prices on them can be easy, as long as you know what to look for.

Consider Operational Savings and Costs

Tankless water heater prices aren’t just about what the unit itself costs, but it’s also about the installation and upfront costs. You’ll spend more on a tankless water heater when it comes to installation, but this upfront cost often pays for itself, because you’ll save on operating costs down the road. You don’t spend money on standby heat, you don’t waste water, and you’ll always have hot water on demand — something a tank version cannot supply.

Think About Space

If money and energy aren’t your top concerns, space might be. Tankless water heaters take up very little space. In fact, a traditional 40 to 60 gallon water heater is 60 inches tall and about 24 inches wide, while tankless water heaters are about 20 inches wide and 28 inches tall.

Consider Your Options

You might notice a range of prices when it comes to tankless models. This is because some models offer additional features your traditional tank version cannot.

You might not need all of the bells and whistles on your new model, so compare the features and see which works best for you. Each has a rating based on how much output you’ll get at a time. So consider how many people shower on a daily basis, how many loads of hot water laundry you need to do, etc. and decide on a tankless unit that meets those needs.

Need Help Installing?

Contact Seva Call today and get in touch with a tankless water heater professional in your area who can help you assess which model is right for your home and install it to save you time and money.

Tags: prices, tankles water heater
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The Benefits of Peppermint Massage Oil

Friday, March 7th, 2014

We all enjoy a good massage session. This can be a real ally when it comes to coping with our stressful lives. In order to obtain the most exquisite effects, it is important to choose your massage oil carefully. Lavender helps you sleep well, jasmine makes you feel sexier; there are hundreds of reasons for you to turn to aromatherapy and let yourself pampered at the end of a busy day.

Why Peppermint Massage Oil

A hybrid between watermint and spearmint, peppermint is an ingredient that can be very helpful in digestion. Due to its high concentration of menthol, it has a cooling, therefore soothing effect. It can soothe different kinds of indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome, abdominal pain, but also headaches and nausea. It has a general soothing and calming effect.

You can simply rub a small amount of peppermint oil under your nose in order to improve your concentration capacity. So, if you want to combat stress, pain, and lack of concentration, you could use some peppermint massage oil.

How to Prepare Your Peppermint Massage Oil

You can make yourself a lovely treat and benefit from it at home. Here’s what you should do:

1. Take a glass recipient.

2. Pour ten teaspoons of a carrier oil into your recipient.

3. Add some peppermint essential oil drops.

4. Stir the mixture until it is homogeneous.

5. Put your peppermint massage oil into a dark bottle.

It is recommended to you use a glass recipient because the plastic ones may contaminate your natural peppermint massage oil. As far as the carrier oil is concerned, you can use grape seed or coconut oil, as they’re the most inodorous. You will add as much peppermint drops as needed; but not too much — it can become toxic. Dark bottles are a good choice because they prevent the oxidation process of oils. Enjoy!

Looking for a Massage Therapist?

Seva Call can put you in touch with a local professional in minutes. We’re here to help you gain access to the best service providers you can reach. For free.

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Tips for Asphalt Roof Repair

Friday, March 7th, 2014

Most asphalt roof shingles are made with the latest technologies that make them extremely durable and resistant to weather, wind, and fire. However, problems can still develop even with the best products in the market. Fortunately, asphalt roof repair is quite easy to do since you can flatten and re-fasten any curled shingles, while old ones can just be replaced.

Leaking Roof

Is water dripping from your ceiling, or does it have water stains? Roof leaks may be caused by missing or damaged roof shingles. Check your roof for any of these problems.

Water may also seep into the roof at points where the shingles connect or where there are weak caulking. You should also check the end caps that cover the roof peak for any problems that may cause a leak and will require asphalt roof repair.

Leaks due to metal flashing issues can be fixed simply by resealing the joints with roof cement.

Curled Shingles

If you discover shingles that have curled back, you can refasten them. Brush on a layer of asphalt roofing cement over the shingles or caulk with a suitable compound. Make sure to coat the shingle’s underside well with the cement to secure all of the edges. Press down firmly and leave to set.

Replacing Shingles

Replacement is a simple solution for rotten, badly damaged, and missing roof shingles.

1. First, carefully raise the edges of the shingles that surround the damaged one and remove the nails using a pry bar.

2. With the nails removed, slide out the shingle to be replaced.

3. Get rid of any cement residue on the roof. If there are protruding nails, remove or hammer down to level them.

4. Before putting in the replacement shingle, use a utility knife to round its corners at the back so it will be easier to slide the new shingle in. You’ll want to put it in under the existing shingle above and align it with the shingles on both sides.

5. Once it’s in place, lift the edges of the shingles that overlap and secure the top of the new shingle with roofing nails.

6. Each corner of the shingle should be nailed down. Apply roof cement over the nail heads.

7. Smooth down the edges of the overlapping shingles.

Find a Roofer Now

If you’re looking to repair or replace an entire row of roof shingles, or you notice that shingles become loose from your roof very easily, it may be best to hire a professional roofer to tackle the job or assess the condition of your roof instead of continuing to rely on spot repairs. For any help with asphalt roof repair, contact Seva Call. We can connect you with qualified roofers fast and for free.

Tags: Asphalt Roof Repair
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Using Acrylic House Paint in Cold Weather

Thursday, March 6th, 2014

Today, acrylic house paint is the preferred paint of many professional and DIY painters for exterior applications. Typically, they use regular, 100% acrylic house paint for various outdoor painting jobs. This type of paint is ideally used when temperatures are in the 50-70 degree range, but it can also be used even in colder temperatures if completely necessary. Before applying, it’s important that very shiny surfaces or those not faded by sun exposure be removed.

If the existing exterior paint is oil-based and you’re planning to switch to acrylic house paint, there are many essential considerations, which is why outdoor paint jobs are best handled by professional painters.

For instance, surfaces with mildew or chalking must be cleaned properly to remove the impurities. To do this, use a strong cleaner like TSP and mix some bleach with it. This solution will dislodge the chalk and kill the growth of mildew. Also, you must first coat any surface painted with oil-based paint with a high-quality bonding primer prior to painting it over with acrylic house paint.

Working in Cold Weather

When painting with low-temperature acrylic paints, one of the trickiest parts is watching out for drops in temperature. Acrylics must be cured (100% dried) before they are exposed to harsh conditions. Low-temperature acrylics can be applied in temperatures as low as 35-50 degrees. However, paint manufacturers indicate an acceptable temperature range for their product, and the temperature has to remain within this range for up to three hours after the paint has been applied.

Additional Tips:

– Note that other materials typically used during painting/home improvement jobs may not be suitable for cold temperatures like new acrylic house paint products. For instance, primers and fillers normally require warmer weather.

– Start the job as early as sunrise and work around your house to follow the course of sunlight. Stop working when temperatures start to go down.

– Paint dries slower in cooler temperature, so allow additional hours for drying before applying the next coat.

– When painting, make sure you’re not painting over dew so as not to trap moisture under paint, which will cause it to have blotches.

Get the Help of Professional Painters

If you require expert help with an exterior paint job this winter or at any time of the year, Seva Call can get you the help you need. Send us your service request and we’ll connect you with qualified painters in your local area in just a few minutes. Try us!

Tags: Acrylic House Paint
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What Does a Tailor Do?

Thursday, March 6th, 2014

Are you looking for the services of a tailor? Or are you planning to become one? Either way, you would want to know exactly what does a tailor do. Generally, here are the things that are part of a tailor’s job:

– Taking their client’s measurements to ensure the proper fit of clothing

– Measuring and cutting the fabric following a pattern and/or design

– Marking garments to indicate the necessary alterations to be made

– Opening seams carefully to hem a garment and perform other alterations

– Sewing garments either by using a sewing machine or by hand with a needle and thread

– Fitting clothes on clients to check if any alterations are needed

Specialties

There are tailors who specialize in certain services such as alterations. A tailor who specializes in alterations makes sure that a client’s clothes fit properly. What does tailor do to ensure a proper fit? A few or several changes to the garment may be done by a tailor to alter a piece of garment. A tailor can hem a pair of pants to shorten the legs or take in the seams to make a garment smaller.

A tailor can also specialize in making only certain types of garment, for example, bridal wear. Others may specialize in working with a specific material, like fur. A fur tailor may update the style of any older fur garment, add a fur detail to a dress or coat, or hand-sew garment linings to the inside of a fur skin.

There are also tailors who specialize in making custom clothes. What does this tailor do? A tailor whose specialty is custom-made garments may work with a customer or a designer in creating a new garment. When tailors take an order from a customer, they will also assist in choosing the fabric, color, and style. If they collaborate with a designer, they will take the designs and turn them into final pieces of clothing. For instance, couture dressmakers work with fashion designers to make exclusive custom clothes.

How to Become a Tailor

You can take tailoring classes where you’ll learn sewing and making clothes alterations. Some tailors start as apprentices, being hired and trained by an experienced tailor. However, most of these arrangements are informal since formal tailoring apprenticeships are not common. The most common way to become a tailor is by working in a tailor shop where you’ll get hands-on training.

Looking for a Great Tailor?

For an exceptional custom-made dress, shirt, or suit, you’ll require the services of an experienced tailor. Fortunately, TalkLocal can connect you directly with great tailors in your area. Contact us now.

Tags: What Does a Tailor Do
Posted in Tailors | No Comments »

Polyethylene Pipe Supplier

Thursday, March 6th, 2014

If you want to fix or replace some of the most important components of your piping system, you have to know where to find the best, cheapest spare parts. You could eliminate all these hassles by simply hiring a certified plumber who works and lives near you. If you want to conduct a DIY project and need to change your PE pipes, it is mandatory to get in contact with the most respectable polyethylene pipe supplier in your area.

The advantages of PE pipes

PE pipes have a long list of advantages. They can be used in numerous fields of activity, because they are extremely versatile, durable, cost-effective, and resistant to various categories of solvents. They are utilized to create highly reliable piping systems, designed to stand the test of time.

How to Find the Best PE Pipes Supplier

Looking for the best polyethylene pipes supplier? You could find the best provider by simply surfing the Internet. The most respectable suppliers always offer a generous selection of products (and custom-made options) and don’t hesitate to help you find the ones that are right for your project, based on diameter, length, color, and all the other selection criteria that may matter to you.

All their commodities display an attractive price-quality relationship. PE pipes are recognized for their long service life, high performance, and a much-appreciated zero-leak rate. These pipes are usually produced with a particular color stripping, allowing the user to identify their future application. PE pipes with blue strips are utilized to carry drinking water, those with green strips are used in sewer applications, and purple strips transport reclaimed water.

Ask an Expert

Want to identify the best polyethylene pipes supplier in your area? In this case, simplify your mission by relying on Seva Call, your free expert tracking service. Use it daily and you’ll be able to be connected with competent experts in no time.

Tags: Polyethylene Pipe Supplier
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