We know, you have tried it all! And you have bathed in OFF and NOTHING WORKS… UNTIL NOW!
Mosquito Shield can give you several reasons why they’re the leader in residential tick and mosquito control, but the real vote of confidence comes from their customers. Over 90% of Mosquito Shield® and Tick Shield® customers repurchase season after season. To help bolster that confidence, only Mosquito Shield and Tick Shield carry an unconditional satisfaction guarantee. Something we’re happy to say mostly collects dust.
With that said, several things clearly set them apart:
• Their proprietary Mosquito Protection Blend™ (MPB) is the product of over 15 years of continual research and development — more than any other mosquito control company of whom they’re aware. And, they’ve enlisted the help of leading companies like Bayer to assist in the testing of our products to help ensure their impact and effectiveness.
• Mosquito Shield and Tick Shield provide provide your property with multiple modes of control working to both kill harboring mosquitoes, no-see-ums, black flies and other flying insects as well as ticks, while simultaneously repelling airborne insects and working to prevent new infestations within the treated perimeter.
• Mosquito Shield and Tick Shield were the first to provide customers with flexible treatment schedules that help to improve results during seasonal periods of mosquito breakouts or peak populations. They don’t sell treatments because a single treatment simply doesn’t work. By monitoring the weather and mosquito population, they are able to provide a worry-free, season-long solution.
• State-of-the-art routing software enables them to deliver on their flexible treatment schedules and better serve and communicate helping to improve operating efficiencies and satisfaction. Meanwhile, their sprayer equipment may look similar, but it too has been engineered to deliver product more effectively and efficiently while Mosquito Shield and Tick Shield technicians receive more training. Their technicians aren’t just trained on how to properly apply the product, but also on mosquito and tick behavior and species identification, helping to improve the overall service they provide to their customers.
Come learn more by stopping at booth number 207 at the Austin Spring Home & Garden Show, March 24-26 at the Palmer Events Center!
Tag: Home & Garden Show
Seven Clever Tips for Saving Money When You Remodel
When you remodel your home, it can be one of the most stress-inducing times of your life. There are a few steps that you can take before, during and after a remodel that will relieve a lot of the pressure and eliminate any surprises.
I cannot make you any guarantees, but I am confident in these seven home remodeling tips that can make your journey to your dream home much smoother.
1. Small can be big too.
First, you should know that a small addition can be just as expensive as a large one. The time and expense of a remodel – hiring a contractor, getting the correct permits, performing the demolition – are going to be incorporated regardless of the project’s size. You should never underestimate the cost of a renovation project even if it is just a small addition. You should be cautious of being frugal. Saving some money will not do you any good if you have to spend money again to work on the same project later. We strive to provide as much value to the customer as we can which is why we have a built in cost estimation tool on our website for you to use free of charge.
2. Take your time with all of the planning.
Make sure you consider everything that you want and prepare detailed plans with your contractor or architect. You should make sure this happens before you begin any demolition or construction. Did you know that most homeowners wait for the warmer weather of spring to start remodeling? If you were to start your renovation around January through March, you could land some better deals. Dry air and frozen ground are excellent conditions to build a new foundation.
3. Can you dig here?
Another important thing that you should take into consideration is the zoning and development regulations in your area. Be cautious of the permits that are required. It may be very tempting to get started as soon as possible but make sure you plan everything down to the last detail if possible. We are a licensed and bonded company, so naturally, we will take care of all of this for you!
4. Try not to turn your house into something that it is not meant to be.
This tip is simple, but it speaks volumes. If it seems like your renovation plans start getting so ambitious that you are transforming your house into a bigger entirely different home, perhaps it may be wise to just move into a bigger house.
5. Remodeling is a slow process, and things take time.
Take your time and factor in lots of time to complete the project in a reasonable time frame. In general, the realistic amount of time for a remodel depends on the size of the space. If we have to upgrade or change the plumbing or electric, then the project timeline could be extended indefinitely. Ideally, we say that we can complete a project within a two to six-month time frame.
6. Reuse some materials.
Ask us if we have any materials that have been left over from past jobs! Bathrooms and kitchens are the two areas that are the most desirable to renovate. They are quite costly and can range from $5,000-$20,000. There are a couple of ways that you can save some money on these costly projects so ill let you in on a few tips. As far as the bathroom is concerned a fresh coat of paint can go a long way. In the kitchen, you can replace cabinet and drawer knobs with more modern hardware and update your appliances to give your kitchen a more expensive feel. We have included some of the current rates and frequently asked questions for some of the most common jobs on our website to save you time.
7. Get more than one opinion!
Sure we may be great, but you should always have and consider your options when you are looking to take on a project of any magnitude. If you already have several quotes in hand companies will be much more willing to strike a deal with you to win your business. Narrow down your options and have a minimum of three written estimates to compare things such as costs and timelines. We are willing to make you feel as comfortable as possible. We have no problem working out a payment plan with you that is tied to the project’s progression.
Visit the San Antonio Home & Garden Show, February 24-26, and see MGR Remodeling for more remodeling expertise and many other local professionals who can help you get your projects solved!
4 Things Every Homeowner Should Check in Their Attic
Most people don’t spend a ton of time in their attic space — believe it or not! It’s not a fun place to work. It’s not a fun place to go into. In Plano, Texas your attic could be 160 degrees! Who wants to go up there in that heat? But even so, it’s important to know your attic. Here are the types of things you can check out in your attic:
1. Insulation:
You should know how much insulation, and what type of insulation is in your attic. Is it settling? If so, you’re losing value there. Is it moving away from a certain part of the house, or being blown around?
2. Rodents:
If you go into your attic and look around, you will be able to see if you have any rodent activity. Feces from rodents can lead to unhealthy air quality.
3. Leaks:
Go up into your attic and take a look at the roof. Is it leaking anywhere? Catching a leak early can save thousands of dollars!
4. Fans:
Are your fans working? If any of them are stuck, you might have airflow problems.
As you can see, there are a ton of systems in your attic space! In addition to everything we just listed, you probably have your air conditioner and heating units up there, too. There’s a lot going on in your attic! We recommend going up there 3-4 times a year. If you need to go up into the attic to chance your A/C filter, that’s a great time to walk around and check on things. Be careful not to step through your ceiling, but walk around as far as you can and check: Does my insulation look different than it did a few months ago? Do I have fans that aren’t working right now that should be, or that were working last quarter? When you have us come out, we check your airflow, your insulation levels and your heat reduction opportunities using a radiant barrier. We check to see if your electric fans are working. We’ll check to see what type of insulation you have and whether it’s settling if it’s been moved around or tunneled through by rodents, all those types of things. So as you can see, your attic is important, and it’s filled with important systems and products! If you put a little effort into maintaining that space and making sure that everything is working properly, it can lower your bills and help with the overall performance level and comfort of your home.
So check your attic out today! If you don’t feel comfortable doing it, come to the Collin County Home & Garden Show and talk with the knowledgeable folks at Energy Attic!
Pro Roofing Tips for When Hail Nails You
TIPS FOR HOMEOWNERS WITH HAIL DAMAGE:
Don’t Delay:
If you suspect roof damage, it is important, for insurance reasons, to discover the extent of the damage as soon as possible. An extensive delay may result in your claim being rejected.
Safety First:
Rooftops are dangerous! It is best to call a professional to examine your roof for damage.
What Homeowners Should Look For:
Examine gutters, downspouts and siding, and look for water damage/leaks inside the home.
Call Your Insurance Company
Be sure you know where your current warranty stands and know what your deductible is. Make sure you understand the procedure for filing a claim. Reputable roofing companies will often send a representative to meet the insurance adjuster onsite while they examine damage.
Beware of Stormchaser Companies
Only use a local, reputable roofing contractor. Request workmanship warranties, credentials, proof of insurance, and references. You can also check with the Better Business Bureau.
Reputable Roofing Contractors
Professional roofers will do a thorough inspection, give you a detailed, written quote and explain warranties and timeline of the job. Thoroughly research ANY roofing company you are considering.
Triumph Roofing – We’ll Nail Your House, When Hail Nails You! Stop by and talk with them about hail damage or any other roofing needs you may have at the Collin County Home & Garden Show at the Allen Event Center, February 10-12, 2017.
www.allenhomeandgardenshow.com
4 Things Every Homeowner Should Check in Their Attic
Most people don’t spend a ton of time in their attic space — believe it or not! It’s not a fun place to work. It’s not a fun place to go into. In the south, in the summer your attic could be 160 degrees! Who wants to go up there in that heat? But even so, it’s important to know your attic. Here are the types of things you can check out in your attic:
1. Insulation:
You should know how much insulation, and what type of insulation is in your attic. Is it settling? If so, you’re losing value there. Is it moving away from a certain part of the house, or being blown around?
2. Rodents:
If you go into your attic and look around, you will be able to see if you have any rodent activity. Feces from rodents can lead to unhealthy air quality.
3. Leaks:
Go up into your attic and take a look at the roof. Is it leaking anywhere? Catching a leak early can save thousands of dollars!
4. Fans:
Are your fans working? If any of them are stuck, you might have airflow problems.
As you can see, there are a ton of systems in your attic space! In addition to everything we just listed, you probably have your air conditioner and heating units up there, too. There’s a lot going on in your attic! We recommend going up there 3-4 times a year. If you need to go up into the attic to chance your A/C filter, that’s a great time to walk around and check on things. Be careful not to step through your ceiling, but walk around as far as you can and check: Does my insulation look different than it did a few months ago? Do I have fans that aren’t working right now that should be, or that were working last quarter? When you have us come out, we check your airflow, your insulation levels and your heat reduction opportunities using a radiant barrier. We check to see if your electric fans are working. We’ll check to see what type of insulation you have and whether it’s settling if it’s been moved around or tunneled through by rodents, all those types of things. So as you can see, your attic is important, and it’s filled with important systems and products! If you put a little effort into maintaining that space and making sure that everything is working properly, it can lower your bills and help with the overall performance level and comfort of your home.
So check your attic out today!
If you would rather stay in the home, in the A/C and out of the attic, come to the Collin County Home & Garden Show in Allen, TX, Feb. 10-12 and talk with the folks at Energy Attic! They can give you more info, answer your questions and do the jobs you don’t want to!
Creating A User Friendly Home
Homes are designed and built by people who don’t usually live in them. Once you move into your dream home, you may begin to identify design elements that are cosmetically pleasing but really don’t serve sensible living. I see this in kitchens, bathrooms and pantry’s, where builders don’t consider full utilization of cabinet space. We find many cabinets have hidden areas, half shelves and space that is wasted. In these case we offer a great problem solving product call Glide-Out Shelves.
Glide out or pull outs, are a great way to get more use out of existing space without having to completely remodel your kitchen or bath. Using the latest technology, glide out shelves are custom fit to your existing shelf thus increasing the space, and adding full extension for optimal ease and organization. Plus glide out shelves make it easy to find pots, pans and can goods lost to the dark recesses of the cabinet, by allowing you to extend the entire shelf into the sunlight!
Now not all glide outs are made equal and this is where you, as the consumer, must be diligent. You can get cheaper quality glide outs, for a cheaper price, but believe me you will regret it. Aluminum rails and mounts just don’t hold the weight that steel ones will. Plus the construction and materials used in the box itself are vital to smooth glide and long term use. So consider these issues when choosing the glide out company for your self.
1. What material is used in the box or drawer itself? Our line uses top quality 1/4 inch, 9 ply Baltic birch, on all five sides. This means that all four sides and the bottom of the drawer or box are all made of the same material.
2. How is the box constructed? Top quality glide outs will be made with dove tail construction and pressurized. Cheaper products are nailed together or glued and can not stand the test of time in a well used kitchen.
3. What are the rails and mounts made of? Ours are made of American made steel not aluminum or cheap steel. The cheaper the rails and months the less they can hold and shorter life expectancy they have.
4. How much weight can the drawers hold full extended? Top of the live products like ours can hold 100 lbs and offer 100%, full extension glide out of the drawer. Lesser products will only glide out 3/4 of way and can’t hold the really heavy stuff.
5. Who is installing them and what is the guarantee? Our installers have been trained by the best and their work is top notch. We offer a life time guaranteed on product and installation. This means if for any reason they fail, any reason other than abuse, we fix them for free. Most cheaper brands offer 90 days.
6. Last but not least, where is your product made? We are a small family owned business and the boxes/drawers are made right here in Austin. We are not a chain or live out of state. When you talk you us, you are talking to the owners and our reputation depends upon your satisfaction.
Remember glide outs don’t have to be expensive we offer the highest quality product for 1/2 the cost of the other big name brands. There is no need to pay more when you can save money and get what you want.
It pays to be diligent and get referrals from clients as well. This is the only way you are assured that you are are dealing with reputable and reliable people. And we have many referrals from your friends and neighbors. Just ask!
Stop by and see the helpful folks of Custom Living of Austin to learn more about solving the problems in your home January 13-15 at the Austin Convention Center at the Austin Home & Garden Show!
Solid Hardwood vs. Laminate
| By: Penny Keoppel of Floor Coverings International We often get asked by our customers whether they should install solid hardwood or laminate hardwood in their home. We know it can be a tough decision, so to help you out we’ve put together a few things you should consider in your decision making process. Price Solid hardwood will almost always be a higher price point than laminate hardwood. If budget is a concern for you, laminate might be the better choice. Plan out your budget ahead of time and stick to it to avoid buyer’s remorse down the road. Longevity While laminate hardwood is extremely durable, solid hardwoods will last for years and years if cared for properly. If you’re planning to stay in your home for a long time, it might be worth choosing solid hardwood over laminate hardwood. Look With today’s technology, laminate hardwood looks very similar to solid hardwood. However, most people can still tell the difference. Decide whether or not the look of solid hardwood is worth the extra cost to you. Environment One of the key differences between the functionality of solid hardwood and laminate hardwood is that laminate can withstand certain environments better than solid hardwood. In particular, laminate hardwood is better suited for high-humidity rooms like basements. Exposure to moisture can cause solid hardwoods to warp, so if you live in a humid area, laminate hardwood may be the better choice. While solid hardwoods are very popular in the kitchen, if you have a few messy cooks in the house and spills are an everyday occurrence, you may feel more at ease with laminate floors. Come to the Orlando Fall Home & Garden Show this weekend, Oct. 21-23 2016, and let us at Floor Coverings International of Winter Garden help you decide whether solid hardwood or laminate hardwood is right for you! Contact us today for a free in-home estimate.  |
Why Geothermal Energy IS Right For Your Home
The benefits of geothermal are lifelong. Geothermal systems provide you unlimited comfort inside your home, and you will also enjoy month-to-month savings on energy bills. Act quickly before December, and Obama’s tax incentives will help you purchase a brand new geothermal system along with installation services at little cost to you.
There are plenty of reasons to go geothermal. A geothermal system for the home is:
Economical
Sustainable
Reliable
Comfortable
Innovative
Affordable with Obama’s Tax Incentives
The Economical Benefits
Did you know you can use the ground next to your home to cool the inside? Well with a geothermal system you can, and you can use less energy doing so, saving you a lot of money on your monthly energy bills!
A geothermal system cools the inside of your home by using coils that are installed underground outside, using 30 percent to 60 percent less energy than traditional systems. You can potentially save up to 80 percent on your energy bill a year. Now that’s being economically savvy!
The Sustainable Benefits
Geothermal systems are the future of home cooling! About 70 percent of the energy that a geothermal system uses is completely renewable.The efficiency of a geothermal system has other HVAC systems beat!
The ground, even just two feet under, is drastically cooler than the temperatures above ground, even on the hottest days of summer! The refrigerant lines are buried underground to take advantage of the natural coolness of the earth. This method is so efficient that it has the same environmental impact as taking 13 cars off the road a year!
You’ll enjoy great refrigerated air, with an environmentally friendly twist!
Reliable
When you go geothermal, you don’t have to worry about the system breaking or glitching from usage. Geothermal systems are incredibly reliable, and all major parts are warranted for 10 years, just in case. When you choose One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating, you don’t have to worry about maintenance. You get two years of maintenance with us as part of your geothermal system package! Our installation professionals are licensed and backed by our U-WIN Guarantee! We guarantee punctual, professional services, and 100 percent satisfaction with your new AC.
Home Comfort
Let’s face it: refrigerated air is glorious when the extreme summer and spring seasons hit!
When the hottest days of summer hit and you need to crank up your AC just to survive. When you go geothermal, you can rest easy knowing your electric bill won’t be breaking the bank.
Along with bringing you the comfort of cool air in the summers, the geothermal cooling method is very stable with excellent indoor humidity control. This prevents the air in your home from becoming “over dried” in the summer. Refrigerated air will not fail you like traditional swamp coolers do.
Innovative Technology for the Home
Geothermal systems are multi-functional and can be expanded with plenty of additional components!
Did you forget to turn up your thermostat before leaving for work? One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating offers smart thermostats with installation. This provides our customers the ability to control their thermostat from their smart phones.
People often forget how important air quality is. Each geothermal system comes with an ultraviolet air purifier and a state-of-the-art electric air filter to keep your family safe from indoor toxins, such as mold and carbon monoxide.
This article was provided by:
Call One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating of Las Cruces, NM
(575) 449-3565 • OneHourAirLC.com/geothermal
They’ll give you a free quote and answer any questions you have.
Remodeling For The RIGHT Reasons!
There are many reasons to get a bathroom remodel, and one of the most common is having an outdated bathroom. But, how do you know if your bathroom is outdated or that it is time to remodel for the right reasons?
Unusual colors is one of the common signs of an outdated bathroom. What may once have been a warm gold, has faded to a rather murky yellow, leaving the floor and walls to blend together despite the different patterns.
There’s also a couple flaws that make a bathroom unsuitable for long term use. For example, Its important to measure a toilet properly before purchasing so that you get the right height and style to match with the plumbing in your home. Otherwise, eyesores will abound in most any outdated bathroom.
Additionally, some tubs have no shower option. And though deep tubs are a great way to soak, they can make it difficult for home owners to age in place with grace. If you’re having difficulty climbing in and out of your tub, or find that you no longer use your tub, then it’s time to upgrade to a bathroom feature you’ll adore, such as a bathtub to shower conversion.
Need some color in your life? Updated colors are soothing and refreshing. As a bonus, pale colors visually increase the space of this bathroom, making the ceiling feel taller, and the floor feel longer. Love it!
Another great idea? Using wainscoting adds a professional look, and will also help prevent walls from warping and molding, giving your bathroom a longer life, and making it easier to maintain. Additionally, wainscoting visually increase the height of the room, again making it feel larger and more welcoming.
As for that old bathtub, we can replace it with a low threshold shower that will allow homeowners to age gracefully. A built in shower bench ensures a place to sit back and relax while grab bars ensure the user’s safety.
Ready for a Remodel?
Come by the San Antonio Home & Garden Show, this weekend, Sept. 30-Oct. 2 and talk with ReBath about your needs & plans! Don’t hesitate to bring your pictures, blueprints and questions!
Landscaping Can Change Your Life & Health… No, Really… Here's How
There are many environmentally sound reasons to landscape.
Professionally designed and well-maintained landscapes protect water quality, reduce soil erosion, improve air quality and lower air temperatures in the summer, which is a huge perk here in Texas!
There are many personal health reasons to landscape.
What we hear most from prospective landscaping clients is that they want to create an outdoor friendly space for themselves, family and friends. Having access to a beautiful environment for relaxing and entertaining will improve your quality of life and decrease your stress level.
There are many economic reasons to landscape.
A professionally designed and installed landscape does more than just make your home look great and cause your neighbors to stare. It increases the value of your home. By a lot. Depending on factors such as starting value, neighborhood and season, study after study shows that landscaping is a much better return on your investment than other home remodeling projects such as kitchens and bathrooms.
“First impressions are as important for houses as they are for people.
If you are considering selling, good landscape design can add up to 20% of value to your home.” Bob Villa
“Forget wiring your new home for audio, video and data. Pass on the upgraded kitchen cabinets. Say no to thicker carpets. If you really want to add lasting value, opt for landscaping.”
LEW SICHELMAN, Herald Tribune
Landscaping. Worth every penny… and then some!
THIS WEEKEND! Come to the Collin County Home & Garden Show & talk with the folks at Flowers’ Garden & Landscapes to learn more!