MondayNight - Page 5 of 6 -

Must Know How To Find Good Bookkeeping

Posted on by

Tips for Better Small Business Bookkeeping

Are you one of those small business owners who just love poring over spreadsheets? Me neither. Yes, your business’s books are a scorecard of how well you’re doing—but if you’re not a “numbers person,” doing your bookkeeping may sound as appealing as a root canal. Still other business owners mean to go over their business finances but get caught up in the day-to-day and never get around to it. No matter how you feel about bookkeeping, it’s one of those tasks no business owner can avoid forever.

Separate business and personal finances

Co-mingling expenses and income is a common mistake in small business bookkeeping—and one that will cause huge headaches for your business in the future. Open a business bank account as soon as you decide to go through with your startup, and get a separate business credit card. This not only separates your accounts, but also helps your business build its own credit rating.

Automate whatever you can.

Entering data into spreadsheets and reconciling numbers manually is so old school. Use cloud-based bookkeeping software, and do your business banking online. That way, you can sync your bookkeeping software with your business bank account so you always have accurate, up-to-the-minute records. Plus, with the cloud, your critical financial data is backed up safely off-site.

Ask a pro

Talk to your accountant to figure out if you can use off-the-shelf accounting software or if you’d benefit from customizing it. Your accountant should be able to not only offer advice but also set up the software for you and show you how to use it

Perform regular financial checkups.

If you put off bookkeeping too long, you end up with bounced checks, overdue invoices or figures that don’t add up. Go over your books weekly to make sure everything is ship-shape.

tips for good bookkeeping

Get into a routine

Set aside some time so you can concentrate on bookkeeping for your business. We suggest you do this either once a week or month. And, if Making Tax Digital affects you, then getting into a routine like this will help you make the transition to digital tax returns easy. By getting into a routine, it will also help you to see your income and expenses each month and monitor invoice payments from clients.

Ensure any paperwork is kept safe

Use the latest apps to scan your receipts and invoices. This will help you make the transition to Making Tax Digital and keep all documents in documents in one place and will make finding them a lot easier! Online accenting software such as GoSimpleBooks will allow you to view your books from anywhere. One of the great benefits of accounting software is that it allows you to view your books on the go meaning you can benefit from secure, remote data storage.

Keep business and personal bank accounts separate

It is absolutely essentials that you keep your private and business accounts separate. If you’re a director of a limited company, then you can’t spend the company’s money for your own purchases, unless they are a business expense. If you’re self-employed, you can take money from your business, but you should still have a separate bank account to help balance the books at the end of the month. Keep track of your finances easily by keeping your business and personal finances separate.

Budget for tax

Dealing with tax and paying the tax can sometimes be difficult for small businesses, therefore it’s vital to start budgeting. It is easier to budget for tax as you go so that you are more prepared for the end of the tax year. You could open a business savings account and put at least 25-30% aside for your tax bill. The process of budgeting and putting away a dedicated sum for taxes will ease the worrying and stress when the self-assessment approaches.

Use online accounting software

Using good, cloud-based software will save you time and money. Online accounting software can allow you to create invoices, track payments, report VAT and manage stock levels. There are many benefits of online accounting software as it allows you to keep track of all your financial information in one place.

How to Hire the Right Bookkeeper for Your Small Business

Freelance, firm, and remote bookkeeping

Unless your business has roughly thirty or more employees, or over a million dollars annual revenue, you probably don’t need to hire a full-time, in-house bookkeeper.

Hiring a freelancer

A freelance bookkeeper is the most affordable option if your finances are simple, and you’re okay with your bookkeeper not being available for you every single business day.

Price

On average, freelance bookkeepers charge lower rates than firms do, since they have less overhead. A freelance bookkeeper will charge either an hourly or flat rate.

Process

A local freelance bookkeeper should be able to visit your business in person in order to collect and organize your paperwork. If you have a paperless office with digitized documents, you may find you’re comfortable hiring and working with a freelancer online

Schedule

One drawback of working with a solo freelancer is they may leave you hanging if they go on vacation or get sick unexpectedly. Also, bookkeeping has its busy season. This typically comes at the end of the financial year, when clients’ books need to be “closed” for tax season. Your bookkeeper may not be able to devote as much attention to your business during this time of year as they normally would

Questions to Ask Before You Hire a Bookkeeper

What is the scope of the bookkeeping work

This may sound like a simple question, but there is a big variation between the services that bookkeepers offer. Your requirements will also vary depending on your own skills and the scope of the work your accountant completes. Some bookkeepers act as management accountants and can help to interpret the figures and other bookkeeper’s skills are limited to data entry

Are they registered and qualified

You will find that some bookkeepers will have a diploma, accounting degree or may even be Chartered Accountants or CPAs. If your bookkeeper is going to be lodging your BAS in Australia then, at a minimum, your bookkeeper should be a Registered BAS agent. BAS agents are registered with the Tax Practitioners Board.

What is their level of expertise

You want your bookkeeper to process your accounts accurately and on-time and to communicate with you in a way that doesn’t take up much of your time. You don’t want to get to the end of the financial year and have to pay your accountant to clean up a mess. You probably aren’t an expert bookkeeper, so sometimes it can be hard to work out what level of expertise the bookkeeper you are engaging is.

How familiar are they with your industry

If the bookkeeper is unfamiliar with your industry there may be a learning curve while they familiarise themselves. We recommend asking whether they have any other clients in your industry (past or present) and ask them to give a few examples of common bookkeeping issues that come up related to your industry and how they would resolve them.

How do they communicate with their clients

Processing the day to day transactions in your accounting software is one element of bookkeeping. It is likely that you are going to be communicating regularly with your bookkeeper, especially in the first few months of working together. As a business owner, your time is valuable and working with a bookkeeper who takes up hours of your time with ineffective communication will slow down your business growth.

APPROACHES TO BOOKKEEPING: TIPS AND TRICKS TO HELP YOU BECOME A PRO

TEACH YOURSELF

Out of necessity, most small business owners start by doing their own books. It’s certainly the most cost-effective method—after all, you can carefully control costs when you’re the one doing the job. DIY bookkeeping is also a way to keep a close eye on costs and expenses. When every cent matters, there’s a certain sense of confidence that comes along with managing your own books.

HIRE A BOOKKEEPER

The easiest way to handle receipts, payroll, and taxes for your business is to hire a bookkeeper. A trained bookkeeper can do all of the essential functions that you no longer have time to handle when your business scales up. Already hired a bookkeeper or accountant? See our easy-to-follow guide on how to add an accountant in QuickBooks Online

AUTOMATE THE PROCESS

There is a more affordable and scalable option than hiring a bookkeeper or teaching yourself: automation. Services like Botkeeper allow small business owners to take a hands-off approach to bookkeeping without sacrificing quality. Using an AI bookkeeper will cost you far less than hiring an employee to do the same tasks. As a bonus, with Botkeeper, you can select a service that comes with a certified CPA backing up and checking the work of the AI

Use Outdoor Electrical Lighting To Make Your Garden More Beautiful At Night

Posted on by

Outdoor Solar Lighting – The Solar Benefits

What is solar lighting?

The principle of how solar lighting works is actually quite simple. The physical explanation behind why it is possible to collect the solar energy and transform it into lighting lies in the photovoltaic effect which is being used in a solar panel or photovoltaic cell that is able to collect the solar energy (i.e. the energy that is produced by the Sun) throughout the day-time.

After being collected, the energy is usually stored in a rechargeable gel cell battery and used later in the evening when there is no sunlight to produce lighting. The light is being turned on by an intelligent controller which is switching on the LED light using the energy that has been stored.

Advantages of solar lighting

Cost effective

Several benefits of solar lighting make it one of the most popular outdoor lighting systems used in homes today. The major benefits of solar lighting are its cost effectiveness and unique design. It is very suitable for saving energy consumption because it used solar energy to power up its light bulbs. It does not use any electricity . Thus it would greatly help you in reducing your electric bill. The mechanism of this solar lighting system is powered up by rechargeable batteries. Once the sun’s rays hit its solar panels, the batteries are automatically recharged. Since it mainly depends on solar energy, there is no need to install any outdoor outlets or power cords. This would greatly reduce the cost of adding extra lights.

Affordable

Trying to reduce that pricy power bill? Outdoor solar lights are extremely cost-efficient since they are operated by rechargeable batteries via the sun and do not require any digging, trenching or wiring whatsoever. In addition, many of Gama Sonic’s new products are crafted using our new patented LED light bulb technology. Using LED bulbs is beneficial for consumers looking to cut back spending since they generally last longer than traditional bulbs and use less energy. Learn more from Energy.Gov about the different types of light bulbs and how they can affect both your energy-output and spending.

Environmentally Friendly

Solar lights are an easy way for you to decrease their carbon footprint. Aside from using converted energy from the sun, solar-powered lights are also eco-friendly due to the materials they are made with. For instance, the new Gama Sonic LED light bulb boasts a 10-year lifespan, meaning you will not have to constantly replace and throw away old and dead light bulbs. In comparison to incandescent light bulbs, LED light bulbs are designed to consume less energy and last longer.

Green Alternative

Solar lighting is a green alternative to traditional lighting using no power at all from the grid. Since the systems are completely powered by solar energy, one of the world’s leading renewable energy technologies. The solar feeds batteries during the day and most batteries are completely recyclable, especially the ones used in a solar application. At night, the long lasting LED fixtures operate off the stored power to illuminate the area. The next day, this process repeats with no outside energy source.

Low Cost Installation

Installation can be very low cost, sometimes much lower than trenching grid power to the location the lights are required. Poles still get set just like with standard grid powered light, well maybe with larger footers; however, there is no underground conduit running from the main power source from pole to pole. All wiring is located at the top of the pole or on a nearby pole for some installations, and is also low voltage which makes it much safer for installation and maintenance. Finally, barriers such as root systems, underground utilities, or other obstacles typically causing issues with standard electric trenching are no longer an issue.

Little maintenance.

Solar power products have few moveable parts which means that fewer parts exist to break. They last for a long time and require little attention once installed.

Renewable resource. Solar power is a renewable resource. Other energy resources, such as coal and oil, have finite supplies. The power of the sun, on the other hand, will keep on shining, potentially beyond human existence.

With solar lighting there is no risk of electrocution and the lights are cool to the touch, making them safe for children and pets.
Solar lights continue working even if there has been a power outage. Because the energy isn’t coming off of an electrical grid, power outages make no difference.

Choose The Best Metode To Do Home Renovation

Posted on by

How to Start a Home Renovation Business

Start a remodeling business by following these steps:

You have found the perfect business idea, and now you are ready to take the next step. There is more to starting a business than just registering it with the state. We have put together this simple guide to starting your remodeling business. These steps will ensure that your new business is well planned out, registered properly and legally compliant.

Plan your Business

A clear plan is essential for success as an entrepreneur. It will help you map out the specifics of your business and discover some unknowns. A few important topics to consider are:

What are the startup and ongoing costs?
Who is your target market?
How long it will take you to break even?
What will you name your business?
Luckily we have done a lot of this research for you.

What are the costs involved in opening a remodeling business?

If you are simply offering up your own skills and time as a part-time remodeler, the start-up cost will be around $50,000 to $75,000 as you will need a complete set of tools, a vehicle for transporting tools and supplies, and the proper licensing and insurance in order to operate in your state and locality. If you are looking to enter the business world offering major renovation services, expect to have start-up capital of $250,000 to $500,000 as you’ll need to be able to purchase your first few orders of materials and hire staff before your customer pays you for the completed job.

Get Your Finances in Order

As a new business owner, it’s important to ensure financial health from the start so you don’t find yourself in a cash flow crunch

There are two important steps to ensure your business is set up to monitor cash flow. One is to get an Employer Identification Number (EIN), which is required to open a business bank account, file taxes and hire employees.

It’s also important to choose a banking partner. A strong banking partner will help you manage cash flow, get a working capital loan, and plan for financial growth and success

Obtain Necessary Licenses and Insurance

Being properly licensed and insured is critical before opening your doors. It’s imperative that you have a license to do business – for instance, a contractor’s license and any other necessary certifications for your particular specialties. You’ll also need a business license for your city.

Moving Into Maintenance – A Key for Winning Long-Term Customers

Here is a great example of how one independent contractor created a steady, growing income through his home renovation business:

Jack T. specializes in indoor stone water fountains. He started out his home repair business creating stone fountains to ‘last forever’ but quickly discovered that the pumps operating the fountains would require biannual checkups. Customers who own one of Jack T.’s custom stone fountains now have the option to subscribe to his monthly low-cost maintenance plan, which includes twice-per-year pump checkups and on-call advice from Jack in the event of a malfunction. He has become the undisputed authority in indoor stone fountains in his state, and 95% of his fountain customers sign up for his monthly maintenance plan.

People Skills

You will need hands-on technical skills to do home renovation, and these can be learned through internships on job sites as well as online courses in home remodeling. But while you build these skills, always remember that remodeling homes is all about working with the people who live in them. Trust and reputation are critical, and we recommend approaching the business from a ‘people-first’ perspective.

Market Your Services

This is where you will spend the majority of your time during the first couple of months in business. Just because you set up this awesome & well branded business doesn’t mean that phone calls are going to immediately start pouring in. People don’t know you exist and it’s time to let them know.So, whenever you aren’t working for a customer, you should be working on your marketing.

What’s the best way to market a business you ?

Well, the quickest way to get customers is probably Craigslist – but you’re not necessarily going to keep your schedule filled or even attract your ideal customers. In fact, you’ll mostly get lower paying customers. At first that’s okay, so Craigslist is a tool to consider. Online marketing will generate more leads and customers than any other method you could possibly consider. And, if done properly, it’s very cost effective.

The Unique Selling Point

The only factor which differences a company from its peers and competitors is their Unique Selling Point (USP). It is mandatory for the home improvement business to highlight this factor and include it in all their brand identity collaterals.

Some firms use creative graphic designers to embed and emphasise this message in their logo design and other graphic design materials. The unique selling point could be a small difference in service or value-add benefit or the customer service. This factor sometimes decides the success of the company in the industry.

The Value Offered

Quality Service at an economical cost is no longer a luxury; it has become a necessity. There are certain expectations from all the companies in a particular industry. Every company promises directly or indirectly to contribute to the welfare of the clientele.

These values -different differ for each brand for a specific sector. The variation distinguishes them from other home improvement businesses. It is vital to determine the benefits offered by the company and work toward the goal of excellence right from day one. In fact, even before starting the company would be an ideal choice.

The Best Tips To Be Event Videographer

Posted on by

Keys to Successful Event Video

Remember, Have Fun, but It’s Their Party

Often, there will be receptions and parties that go along with special events. If you are invited, it’s important to make an appearance. It’s a good idea to be grateful for the opportunity the client presents. Just keep in mind that it’s their party – be polite, don’t eat the food unless invited to do so, don’t overstay your welcome, and keep that lampshade off your head.

Rest Up!

No matter how straightforward your role at an event may be, a long day of standing still and staying alert can be draining. Even at simple shoots you might run into camera issues, fluctuating audio levels, mysterious sinking tripods and last-minute changes from clients.

Park as Close as Possible

Figure out parking before the event rolls around. Don’t get caught circling a full parking lot when you’re supposed to be setting up. Ask where you can unload your vehicle and see if there is special parking for event staff. Having a nice, close spot will save time and stress in case you need to make any last minute errands.

Look the Part

Looking professional is an important part in making a client happy. You want him or her to see that you take this work seriously. Appearing neat, well-groomed and well-mannered will confirm that your client made the right decision in hiring you.

Make Friends with the On-site AV Person

Do you need an XLR audio feed from the soundboard? Maybe an SDI hookup so your camera feed can appear on screen? Take a wedding photographer for example, both audio/video (AV) and photo folks will have supporting media that you will want access to, so be willing to share and cooperate. Regardless of what you need from the AV staff, it never hurts to be on somebody’s good side, when you’re depending on them to be the A to your V.

Tips for Shooting Event Video and Photography at the Same Time

Edit Photos First, Video Second

Once the event has concluded, it’s best to dive into the photos first — sometimes immediately after the event. Editing photos, to most, will be the quicker of the two edits, and it will help you get the ball rolling on your deliverables.

Communicate and Be Vocal

When taking on the challenge of shooting both video and photos, communication is key. If you have a team with you, dividing and conquering is a great approach. However, the key is communication and planning.

Photography Appreciates Static

Meanwhile, for photography, I’d look for more static situations. Obviously, shooting event photography requires singling out groups of people and getting them to turn, smile, and pause — photography is simple and elegant. There’s no need to record people awkwardly waiting for a flash.

Video Loves Motion

Also, when deciding when to shoot video over photography, a general rule is to decide what looks good in motion versus static. Video loves motion. Yes, it may be a little harder to set the focus and adjust on the fly. However, consider the situation. If there is something interesting going on that is in motion, say a first dance or a popping champagne bottle, always go for video.

Know Your Strengths and Weaknesses

Personally, I feel like I’ve always been an unusual photographer/videographer because I feel stronger shooting video than photos. Often, photographers are looking to add video to their coverage. In which case, this is a great resource.

What to Look for in an Event Videographer

Technical Know-How

Of course, if you want a high-quality video, you need to hire someone (or a team) that knows how to hit that quality level. This means paying attention to technical aspects such as.

Editing Skills

Editing and post-production in general are huge parts of the overall effect. Of course, you need to take care when you are doing the actual filming. But, even if you don’t get everything you need, it is possible to add depth through editing. If done correctly, you can create a feeling that might not even have been as intense at the live event itself.

Artistic Flair with a Marketing Mind-Set

Of course, video is an art form. So, when hiring a videographer, you want an artistic spirit. But, be sure this is kept in check with a marketing mind-set.

Videography Tips for More Professional-Looking Videos

Have Good Lighting

One of the biggest secrets to achieving professional-looking videos is to use lighting for your storytelling. During conceptualization, try to be intentional about your lighting. Determine the types of lights that you need and where you will place them to achieve the effect that you want. Or if you’re on a budget and are working with existing lights (like lamps and the sun), think of how you can make it work for your particular scene.

Keep the Background Simple

Don’t just film anywhere. Make an effort to use a simple background or improve it by removing as much clutter as you can. Many use solid-colored backgrounds — be it a wall, a bedsheet, or backdrop paper — and place themselves (or their subjects) a few feet away from it to avoid casting a shadow.

Improve Your Composition

A true pro may be able to spot the work of an amateur during the first few seconds of a video project, even if high-end camera equipment was used. So what gives them away? It’s their lack of proper framing and composition.

Observe Proper Camera Placement

A common mistake that beginners make is not minding how the lens’ focal length and the camera’s relative distance from the subject are affecting the look of the scene. For close-up shots, never place your camera close to your subject as this can create unattractive facial distortions and make it more challenging for you to crop out the edges of the scene. It’s much easier to place your camera a couple of feet away and carefully zoom in with your camera lens.

Use Manual Focus

While the autofocus feature on your camera can be very handy, it can ruin your recording when it goes in and out of focus while trying to locate your subject in dimly lit scenes. The key is to use the exposure/focus lock on your smartphone or switch to manual focus on your standalone camera, so you can use your own eyes and set the focus yourself.

You Need to Capture for Your Event Videos

Close-up shots that capture emotion

Events are emotional experiences — and whatever emotional experience your event promises is a big draw for potential fans, whether they’re swaying to their favorite music or enthralled in a really great educational talk. This type of shot captures attendees’ faces expressing that emotion, which is invaluable proof that your event delivers on what it says it will.

Shots spanning a crowd or showing your venue/environment

Like #1, you’re looking for images that capture the feeling of your event, while also creating a fear of missing out. A shot that shows the scale of your event, including the venue and environment, is enticing and helps people imagine what it’d be like to attend.

Shots of performers, speakers, and presenters on stage

Of course, people also want to know what kinds of things they’ll learn or experience at your event, which is why it’s important to capture speakers or performers on stage. Moments with strong quotes and applause or laughter from the audience will make the most impact on viewers.

Short video clips and soundbites from attendees

92% of consumers trust peer recommendations over advertising, which is one of the reasons why testimonials are so powerful. People are usually more than happy to say a few words about why they love something, so make sure to interview attendees about your event.

Shots from the stage

Along the same lines as #4, getting footage filmed from the stage looking out into the audience shows how many people are at your event and enjoying themselves.

Make A Good Toilet Installation To Make You Comfort

Posted on by

Tips for Choosing a New Toilet

Taking Measurements

The first step is to measure carefully to ensure that the toilet you purchase will fit in the same location as the old one. Measuring is done with the old toilet still in place. Start by measuring from the wall behind the toilet to the center of the bolts at the base of the toilet. If your existing toilet has four bolts, measure to the center of the back bolts. This measurement is known as the rough-in measurement. For a standard toilet, the rough-in measurement should be between 11 inches and 13 inches. Keep this measurement handy when you go to purchase the replacement toilet.

Researching Your Options

With measurements in hand, it’s time to consider what options are available for your new toilet—and there are quite a few. The first option is between one-piece and two-piece models. With one-piece toilets, the tank and bowl are all one integral unit. These toilets look very sleek and have a low-profile, but they are generally more costly than the typical two-piece toilets. Since two-piece toilets are more common, they are also more competitively priced.

Bowl Shape

When choosing a toilet, you can choose from those with bowls that are elongated, compact -elongated, or round-front. Elongated toilets offer deeper seating areas and will fit most residential applications. Compact-elongated toilets have a slightly shorter footprint and take up less space while still offering good comfort. Round-front toilets take up the least space and are a good choice where space is at a premium.

Toilet Trap

Toilets can have trap configurations that are exposed—where the integral trap in the fixture is visible from the side—or the trap configuration can be hidden by the design of the fixture so that the side view of the toilet offers a flat surface. This is really a matter of aesthetics. Visible-trap toilets are a good choice for classic-style bathrooms with pedestal sinks and free-standing tubs, while hidden-trap toilets may look better in more modern bathrooms.

Choosing a Toilet: Tips to Ensure You Get the Right Fit and Flush

Measure for fit

Your first step in choosing a toilet is to find your current toilet’s rough-in measurement so you can find a model that fits your bathroom. The rough-in measurement is the distance from the wall to the middle of the toilet flange, which lines up with the center of the hold-down bolts. For a toilet with two bolts on each side, measure to the center of the back bolt. If you’re measuring from the lowest part of the wall, take the thickness of the baseboard or molding into account. Ideally, measure directly from the wall.

Choose your design

When choosing a toilet, you’ll need to decide if you want a one-piece, two-piece or wall-mount design. Two-piece toilets are the most common. These plumbing fixtures have a separate bowl and tank you can buy together or separately. Because there are so many on the market, opting for a two-piece toilet gives you a greater chance of finding one with the features you want.

Decide on bowl type

Toilet bowls are available in two shapes: elongated and round. Elongated bowls are around 2 or 3 inches longer in the front than round bowls. Round bowls never surpass 28 inches, while elongated bowls can be as large as 31 inches. Despite the fact that they take up more space, elongated bowls offer some advantages. Some individuals, including the elderly and those with physical impairments, may find the bigger seat more comfortable because it supports the thighs like a chair. These bowls also retain less soiling and hold back odors better. For some, the streamlined oval shape is more visually appealing than the traditional round shape.

Decide on height

Standard toilets are around 15 inches from the seat to the floor. Although this height is comfortable for many, you may be better off choosing a toilet with a higher seat. Seats of 17 inches high are marketed as “comfort height” and are better suited for the elderly and those with physical impairments. In fact, this is the height the American Disabilities Act requires for public toilets.

Consider a dual-flush toilet

Toilets account for up to 30 percent of the water use in the average US home. If you’ve had bad experiences with water-conserving toilets, though, choosing a toilet designed to save water may not seem too appealing. Older models of water-saving toilets simply reduced the amount of water used, leaving you with no choice about how much too use. Newer models have changed that.

How to Buy a Toilet

Understand the mechanics behind a toilet. When you flush a standard toilet, the handle pulls up a chain, which raises a flush valve. This flush valve then releases at least two gallons (about 7.5 litres) of water from the tank into the bowl in about three seconds, which triggers the siphon to suck the contents of the bowl down the drain and into a sewer system or septic tank. However, contrary to popular belief, the tank is not the most important part of a toilet’s technology. In fact, you could detach the tank from the toilet and pour two gallons of water into the bucket by hand, and the toilet would still flush.

Consider a gravity-assisted toilet. This type is the most common type in North America. These toilets use the weight and height of the water in the tank to facilitate a flush. The tank then refills via a small gushing pipe (usually plastic) until a float shuts off the flow. If any water does happen to flow a little higher from gushing, hand-motion inside, or even an earthquake, a narrow overflow tube handles any overflow problems. So, as long as the toilet is functioning properly, no water should spill outside of the porcelain tank. This type is the staple toilet, simple, effective, and durable. The flushing sound for gravity assisted toilets also isn’t particularly loud and they are easy to repair. However, if you have a lot of people using your toilet (say, a large family) or are going to be putting a lot of wear on the toilet’s flush system, gravity-assisted toilets may not have enough power to flush consistently, after every use.

Consider a pressure-assisted toilet. Unlike gravity assisted, pressure-assisted toilets have an ‘active’ rather than a passive mechanism. This type adds pressure to the force of gravity by supplying more force than the traditional unit. Water displaces air inside a sealed cylindrical tank, usually made of metal or plastic, inside the larger ceramic tank, helping to generate a larger force. However, because the water in the tank is held under pressure, it flushes with greater force, resulting in a loud flushing sound. As well, a greater amount of pressure via your toilet can put stress on older pipes and plumbing in your home, which can lead to a leak or a busted pipe.

Consider a vacuum-assisted toilet. This type innovates on the standard gravity-assisted toilet by using a vacuum that draws the water with more force into the bowl using the rim holes in the upper toilet bowl. Vacuum-assisted toilets have a cleaner, quieter flush than other models, making them ideal for a bathroom near your bedroom, or by a quiet area of your home. However, unclogging this type of toilet requires some time and skill. To unplug the bowl, you have to take the lid off and put your hand over an opening in the tank for the plunging action to work. The vacuum-assisted toilet also costs about $100 more than a gravity toilet.

Consider a power-assisted toilet. This type uses an even greater force than vacuum-assisted toilets. In fact, power-assisted toilets are known as the only “toilets with horsepower”.[1] These toilets have a 0.2 horsepower motor in the tank to literally blast waste products down the drain, making them ideal if your bathroom has old pipes. Power-assisted toilets can also save the average family 2,000 gallons of water per year. However, these toilets have a pump that must be plugged into a power outlet, they are known for their incredibly loud flushing sound and they are currently the most expensive type of toilet on the market.

Tips on Finding the Best Toilet For Your Bathroom

Shape, Height and Style

Before you head out to buy a new toilet, one of the first things you need to do is measure your bathroom space, specifically where the toilet is going to go. The most important measurement to take is the rough-in – the distance between the wall and the floor drain. This is usually around 12 inches; perhaps 10 or 14 inches for older homes.

Gravity Feed vs. Pressure-Assisted

In terms of flush, most toilets fall into two basic categories: gravity feed and pressure assisted. Gravity feed toilets are still the most commonplace, but pressure assisted is worth considering, especially if you have a large family. So, what are the differences you may ask?

Low Flush and Water-Saving Toilets

It’s fair to say that the toilet is one of the most important items in your home – even if it’s not the most glamorous. Aesthetic considerations like colour and style are important but just as important is how well it functions, and how much water it uses. A good toilet should generate enough power to effectively clear the bowl with one flush, while also conserving water as much as possible.

Better, Faster, Stronger

Who says innovation doesn’t apply to the lavatory? As with everything else, there are always people at work to make the modern toilet perform better, last longer, and work harder. What’s more, you can also find elevated toilets that are approximately 2-4 inches taller, for those who struggle to get up and sit down.

Some Final Thoughts on Choosing a Toilet

Generally speaking, boring is better. If you opt for something quirky or unusual, you may start to wish you hadn’t further down the line. For example, say you opt for something ultra cool and custom – when you come to replace those parts some years later, you’re going to need to spend much more than if you’d opted for something mainstream. Likewise, a bright pink toilet might seem like a fun option now, but when you try to sell your house some years later, potential buyers may well find it offputting.

Toilets

How We Test Toilets

To develop our toilet ratings, Consumer Reports’ test engineers put the fixtures through a battery of tests involving waste removal, bowl cleaning, and drain-line clogs. We also measure how loud a toilet’s flushes are.

To test solid-waste removal, we dump marble-sized plastic beads, weighted sponges, and filled water bags into the bowl and measure how well each flush handles the simulated waste.

We use a combination of methods to assess how well a toilet gets the entire bowl clean. First, we use red paint to draw a rectangular shape in the bottom of a clean bowl. Our testers let the bowl fill up, then draw a line using a water-soluble pen around the bowl about an inch under the rim. Next, we flush. We then measure how much red paint and pen markings are left. The better a toilet cleans, the fewer markings are left. We repeat this test three times and calculate the average to arrive at a score. To gauge odor removal, we measure how much sewage water is left in the bowl after flushing.

We also look at how well a toilet moves waste from bowl to sewer and whether there’s enough force to make sure the waste doesn’t get stuck, especially if waste travels a long way to the sewer. In our noise tests, we measure with a decibel meter how loud a toilet is during flushing.

Trick To Find The Best Roof Installation

Posted on by

A Comprehensive Guide On Roof Installation

As an important characteristic of a house, it is crucial to employ the best company for the installation and replacement of the roof. Every homeowner aims to have a stable roof due to which a top roof replacement company is required to satisfy their need. A properly fixed roof will survive any weather cycle and provide security for the entire house. An array of roof trends is available in the market offering families with a variety of styles and material patterns to select from.

However, this cannot be achieved by amateur individuals and require proper experts who specialize in such matter. Proficient agencies should be contacted as they can provide professional guidance and judgment as to what type of roofing will suit the house. Families require roof installation that can last for years and does not require any alterations or money re-invested in them within a short period of time. The most commonly preferred style of roofing includes sheds and workshops.

DIY Checklist- Common Roofing Supplies

Little Giant Roofing Ladder

When replacing a roof, safety is a top priority, especially when going up and down the roof multiple times, carrying material, supplies. In order to DIY your roof, a proper, safe ladder is required. In construction, ladder safety and job site falls are of the top safety incidents in construction. Be sure that if you do decide to replace your own roof, that you have a proper ladder for the job.

Roofing Underlayment

When replacing a roof, you need to make sure that a proper roofing underlayment is used. This underlayment membrane is simply stapled to your roof substructure and placed on before the shingle material. This is used, in case water and moisture are blown in behind of the roofing material, that your house is still protected from the elements.

Automatic Roofing Nailer

When installing a roof, shingles typically take multiple nails per shingle and are can be very time consuming to hand nail each shingle in place. With an automatic roofing nailer, this means with a simple pull of a trigger, a roofing nail is placed to the proper depth every time-saving time during installation.

Shingle Remover

Many homeowners, that have zero intention on installing a new roof, still want to gain sweat equity on the project and will choose to rip off the old roof themselves. In order to do this, be sure to purchase the proper tools. This shingle remover is a special shape in order to help remove and lift shingles off the roof to make removal of your old roof as easy as possible.

Seven Effective Steps on How to Roof A House

Identify Local Building Codes and Obtain Permits

Make sure to check with your residential local building codes regarding roofs. Certain cities require only particular materials or a specific number of shingles. This is to ensure aesthetic continuity in the community and to prevent any untoward incident uprooted roofing materials cause during any possible violent weather conditions. Before starting, obtain any building permits to avoid any costly local civil code penalties.

Find The Roofing Material You Need

Take note of the roofing materials earlier and identify which one works for your budget and for your property. Each material has varying difficulty in terms of installation. Gauge your roofing installation skill before making a choice. Metal roofs, roofing felt, and shingle-style roofs are easy for beginners to install.

Remove Old Roof (for Pre-Constructed Roofs)

Skip this step if you’re constructing a new property and are about to construct your roof. Using the pry bars, remove the staples, fasteners, or nails on your old roof. Place the removed waste into your roofing shovel. Old roofs with screws and fasteners that have rusted or hardened require you to hammer down a pry bar to loosen the material. Take frequent breaks from this demanding task to place the waste on the shovel to the trash bin.

Install Drip Molding and Flash Roof Valleys

Drip molding leads rainwater straight to the gutters of your roof. Take your roofing nails and your chalk line. Align the drip molds and space each installation nail by 12 inches. Mark these spaces with chalk and begin nailing. Nail down your roof valley flashing in the same manner.

Use Chalk to Mark Nail Spacing

For roofing felt, synthetic roofs such as EPDM, TPO, and PVC, and metal roofs, you will need nails to fasten them to your roofs. In the same manner you did with the drip mold, mark the areas you need to nail with chalk lines. Space them by 6 inches.

Spread the seams of your roofing material across the roof’s surface. Allow them to overlap by half an inch to create a watertight barrier and introduce insulation.

Apply Roof Adhesive on Exposed Nails

Roofing adhesive creates a watertight seal around exposed nails. It also helps them against violent weather conditions that may loosen or uproot them. Apply them using the included application instrument evenly on areas with exposed nails.

Let Dry and Enjoy Your New Roof

Let the roofing adhesive dry before performing a thorough post-inspection of your roof. During this process, check for any loose nails, excess roofing seams, areas with cracked adhesive (which need reapplication of the substance), and other areas to redress. Repeat the process until you have resolved all possible issues of your roofing installation.

Roof Replacement Styles For Common Garage

Gambrel Roofs (Barn-Style)

Gambrel-style roofs are a source of attraction for children. Because the structures they seal look like animal barns. Different materials used in these roofs are;

Metal
Asphalt Shingles
Cedar Shakes
Clay/Concrete Tiles

Hip Roofs

Hip roofs are common to have on houses with multiple rooms. As they have four sloped sides, they appear like a pyramid with a flat ridge on top. Such types of roofs are efficient in case of strong rain, hail, or snow. Following materials are used for hip roofs;

Asphalt Shingles
Cedar/Wood Shingles
Metal
Clay/Concrete/Plastic Tiles

Reverse Gable Roofs

These are complex and expensive. The main reason for high charges is additional labor. Their double-ended peak at either end of the house allows debris, rain, and snow to slide off. Main construction materials for reverse gable roofs are;

Asphalt Shingles
Plastic Tiles
Metal
Concrete Tiles

Flat Roofs

Flat roofs suit all types of garages. They have the aesthetic appeal of their own. They appear modern and industrial in both homes and garages. This makes them the best choice for commercial properties. Following flat roof materials are used during its construction;

Asphalt
Metal
TPO
PVC
EPDM

Insurance Coverage

Before you hire anyone to work on your roof, call your homeowner’s insurance company to check your deductible and coverage for roof repairs or replacement. You’ll want to weigh your out-of-pocket costs against the cost of replacing your roof entirely. Consider any resulting increase in your premium as well—it may make more sense to simply cover the cost yourself.

Generally, homeowner’s insurance policies may cover, or contribute toward, the repair of isolated leaks, but won’t cover the cost of replacement. Most insurers will send an adjuster to provide an estimate for the repair, and policies typically cover repairs to the roof, as well as any damage to the framing, drywall, or flooring that results from a leaking roof. If you do receive a payout from your insurance company, you can use that money to make the specific repairs, or apply it toward the cost of a total replacement.

Tips To Make Mold Remediation In Your Home

Posted on by

Get Rid of Mold: DIY or Hire a Pro?

Everyday Mold

Spores thrive on moisture, so expect it to grow in areas that get and stay wet:

Bathrooms with poor ventilation, especially shower ceilings and tile grout lines.
Around kitchen and mudroom sinks.
Along thresholds of exterior doors.
Basements near hot water heaters and sump pumps.

Everyday Solutions

If you can see it, you probably can get rid of it with a little elbow grease, soap, and water. More stubborn forms usually succumb to a solution of 1:9 bleach-to-water. Spray and wipe.

Problem Mold

If you find spores growing on drywall, studs, and subflooring — especially if the area exceeds 10 sq. ft. — then you’ve got a bona fide mold problem. Don’t bother buying a hardware store petri dish kit, which claims to help identify airborne mold: It doesn’t. The kits might grow some spores for you — they’re always present in indoor air — but the kits can’t guarantee that a statistically significant number of spores are flying around. Also, kits don’t confirm the presence of dead spores (they can be harmful, too) or determine baseline levels in order to compare results after remediation.

How to Remove Black Mold

Removing black mold is a step-by-step process that requires patience, an investment in protective gear and black mold removal products, and, of course, the courage to brave dark, cramped spaces inhabited by toxic fungus.

First, you must remove the source of any moisture from the affected area. If any leaks or persistent condensation aren’t alleviated, the mold will likely reappear after removal.

Next, seal any doorways or other openings leading to other areas of the home, place heavy plastic over them, then seal the plastic in place with duct tape. If there are outdoor openings in the room, place an exhaust fan near them to help remove mold spores from the room.

How to choose a mold removal service

Choose the correct mold removal service

While all mold remediation companies specialize in helping rid a space of mold, not all companies do the same thing. When in doubt, feel free to ask the company of your choosing if it is one of the following.

The cost of mold removal

Mold removal can be a complicated and pricey venture. Many property owners might take into consideration the cost and the various fees associated with a mold removal service before selecting a company.

Mole environment

Mold grows in many places across the world, so the type of mold can vary wildly on the location it spores. The specific type of mold that grows often depends on the location’s climate and the type of toxins that thrive there.

The speed of service

Mold is a common problem, but the severity and variety of mold vary from place to place. Thus, some mold companies are able to treat mold quicker than others, which is essential when choosing a company.

Additional benefits

Mold companies often do more than just detect and treat mold; some companies contract laboratory and cleaning services to offer additional benefits to people who hire them.

Mold Remediation and Restoration

Understanding Mold

Microscopic mold spores exist almost everywhere, outdoors and indoors, making it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air, and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or on a pet.
Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water.
Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

BEST MOLD REMOVAL PRODUCTS

HOW TO SPOT MOLD

First, you need to know what mold is and how you can detect it. Mold is a type of fungus that thrives in moisture, so it’s often found in areas that are prone to getting wet or humid. This usually includes bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. But if other rooms of your home have flooded, mold may be found there, too. And of course, your boat is the perfect candidate for mold since it’s constantly around water.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN THE BEST MOLD REMOVER

The best mold remover is strong enough to remove mold quickly—before it spreads or continues to make you feel sick—without leaving behind an overwhelming odor of chemicals. Basically, it should be powerful enough to do the job right while still being safe to use in your home or vehicle.

MOLD STAIN REMOVAL PRODUCTS TO TRY

One of the top mold removal products on the market is 303 Mold & Mildew Cleaner+Blocker. This formula was created to remove mold and mildew stains from just about any water-safe surface. It won’t just get rid of the mold; it will also prevent it from occurring again! And since it doesn’t contain bleach, it won’t leave behind any residue or strong odors, so it’s safe to use in any room of the house or any part of the boat.

Tips To Be The Best Chiropractor

Posted on by

How To Select The Best Chiropractor

Collecting Recommendations

One place to start is to ask a primary care physician, physical therapist, or spine specialist for recommendations of chiropractors who they view as competent and trustworthy. One way to phrase this question is: “If someone in your family needed a chiropractor, who would you recommend?” However, many medical professionals lack regular interaction with chiropractors and therefore may not be able to provide a recommendation.

Interviewing a Chiropractor

Before starting treatment, it is usually best to conduct a telephone interview or request an in-office consultation to learn more about the chiropractor, the clinic, and techniques used. The treating chiropractor will typically request a personal consultation to discuss these details.

Background Research

Patients may want to research if there are any disciplinary actions against the chiropractor. This information is available from each state’s chiropractic regulation and licensing board, which can usually be found on the state’s website.

Tips for Choosing a Chiropractor

Know What Your Insurance Covers

Your insurance coverage is a practical matter. To receive the most insurance benefits and pay the least out-of-pocket for your care, you may need to choose a chiropractor who participates in your plan. You should still consider credentials, experience, outcomes, and hospital quality as you select a chiropractor from your plan.

Review Patient Satisfaction Surveys

Reading what other people have to say about a chiropractor can provide insight into how the chiropractor provides care, as well as how his or her practice is operated. Patient satisfaction surveys typically ask people about their experience with scheduling appointments, wait times, office environment, and office staff friendliness. You can learn about how well patients trust the chiropractor, how much time he or she spends with their patients, and how well he or she answers questions.

Evaluate Communication Style

Choose a chiropractor with whom you are comfortable talking and who supports your information needs. When you first meet the chiropractor, ask a question and notice how he or she responds. Does he or she welcome your questions and answer them in ways that you can understand? Find a chiropractor who shows an interest in getting to know you, who will consider your treatment preferences, and who will respect your decision-making process.

Research Hospital Quality

Some chiropractors are affiliated with hospitals. For this reason, consider the quality of care at the hospital where the chiropractor can treat patients. Hospital quality matters to you because patients at top-rated hospitals have fewer complications and better survival rates. Additionally, consider whether the hospital’s location is important to you. Should you need to go the hospital for exams or treatment, you want the location to encourage, rather than discourage timely care.

Consider Gender

It’s important to feel comfortable with your chiropractor’s gender because you will need to openly discuss personal information. When it comes to chiropractic care, your own gender is also an important consideration. Chiropractors are becoming more skilled in caring for women and men differently. Ask the chiropractor about his or her recent training and experience specifically related to your condition and your gender.

Tips For Choosing The Best Chiropractor

Fees

During your free consultation with the Chiropractor, before you proceed with treatment, be sure to find out what the fees for services will be. If you have health insurance, they should be able to give you a break down of what is covered and what is not.

Schedule a Free Consultation

The majority of Chiropractors will offer a free consultation so you can meet with them and discuss your injury or pain condition.During your consultation, you will have the opportunity to ask any questions that will help you with deciding if they are the right fit for you.

Ask What Techniques are Used

There are multiple techniques that can be utilized by Chiropractors to ensure optimal recovery.If there is a particular treatment that you prefer, or are curious as to which ones are offered, it is important to ask the Chiropractor during your initial consultation.

Ask About Experience

A Chiropractors experience matters when you are facing musculoskeletal or spine health issues. The more experience the chiropractor has with a particular condition or procedure, your results are likely to be better.

Research the Chiropractor’s Credentials

Making sure the Chiropractor you are about to see has the proper licensure is a very important factor. It will tell you if the chiropractor has the proper training, experience, and skills to provide chiropractic care. It is also good to confirm the doctor has not history of malpractice or disciplinary actions against him/her.

Tips for Finding the Best Chiropractor

Do they offer free consultations?

While not a requirement, it’s considered good practice to offer free short consultations with would-be patients, particularly those who’ve never had chiropractic care before. This helps distinguish the better chiropractors, as well as giving you a chance to personally meet the doctor and make up your mind about them.

What other techniques do they use?

It’s not uncommon for a chiropractor to have interest in other alternative medicines or rehabilitation techniques, such as Yoga, or acupuncture. Nothing prevents a chiropractor from making other such methods part of their overall care package. So, you may be able to find a good match for your own needs based on the other care options they provide.

What’s their educational background?

Becoming a chiropractic practitioner is as difficult as becoming licensed in any other major medical field. So, check their educational history, and make sure they’ve attended reputable schools. For chiropractic education in particular, look for alma maters such as Parker, Logan, or Life University.

Are they properly licensed?

In the United States, licenses to perform chiropractic are issued on a state-by-state basis. A visit to the Federation of Chiropractic Licensing Boards can point you to the appropriate licensing board for your state or territory, and from there you can look up the doctor in question to ensure their credentials are in order.

Referrals

At the end of the day, word-of-mouth is still one of the best options. If you know someone with similar issues, and they have a chiropractor who helped them, that chiropractor will probably be able to help you too. No amount of online research can replace a firsthand report.

Tips To Consider When Finding A Chiropractor

Look at the Experience

There is a quite a number of trained and licensed chiropractors in Singapore. However, not all chiropractors have the experience to handle treatments such as, such as slight more obscure spine or musculoskeletal health issues. An experienced chiropractor will guarantee quality service. They will have also encountered various challenges in the career, and have the necessary skills and knowledge to work around them.

Schedule a Consultation Session

Professional chiropractors will arrange a free consultation session with the patent prior to treatment. This is an important meeting where you can learn more about the health facility and chiropractor, and your own injury. It is advisable that you take advantage of this session to interview the chiropractor. Make sure that this consultation session makes you feel comfortable. Are you comfortable to discuss your injury with the chiropractor? Chiropractors for back pain come in endless shapes and forms, so you should choose a chiropractor you’re convinced will provide you the best treatment.

Fees

Before you start treatment, discuss the total cost of your ideal chiropractic care. Most people will have health insurance. Ask on what your insurance will cover. You can also compare health costs from different health facilities and insurance requirements.

Get Referrals

For first time patients, its best to get a referral from your primary care doctor. Your doctor knows of the best chiropractors in your area. In fact, he can probably recommend a few for you to choose from, as a rough starting point. You can also get referrals from your friends, family and colleagues. Do they know of the best chiropractic care unit? Have they been receiving chiropractic care in Singapore? These are referrals and reviews you can trust.

Check on Credentials

Licensing is one of the key factors you need to consider when looking for health professionals. Chiropractors are entrusted to provide quality and reliable health care to their patients. For this reason, they are required to undergo training and practise to perfect the techniques in this field of science. A professional chiropractor should be trained, qualified and accredited. You can get all this information from the Internet by checking out the education and working background of the chiropractor.

Tips To Choose The Best Immigration Lawyer

Posted on by

Tips to Choosing an Immigration Lawyer

Build a Relationship with your Attorney

Your visa is the first step to being able to legally live in the United States. It is also the first, but, more likely, not the last time you’re dealing with USCIS office.

Hire a Lawyer Who Speaks Your Language

Pick a lawyer who speaks your language fluently. This greatly streamlines the process and ensures that you and your lawyer are always on the same page in terms of understood legal nuances. The lawyer would also be able to make sure that the certified translations of your documents from your native tongue to English are accurate.

Upload the Process to the Cloud

Adopt a cloud file storage for the documents you need to submit with your case file. Sign the documents electronically and employ a project management system to manage the process such as Asana and Google Drive.

Negotiate Fees

Immigration law firms typically charge by the hour. However, some law firms charge fixed fees for the standard preparing and filing of your case. Opt always to pay a fixed fee for a law firm’s services or else require that they give you an estimation of how much time it will take to file your case so that you know how much their services will cost you in terms of time and money.

Ask for References

Once you are referred to a good lawyer, arrange to have a consultation wherein the lawyer gives his or her best recommendations for visa options. Be sure to ask for references. A good immigration lawyer should suffer from no shortage of happy former clients ready and willing to recommend the law firm’s services.

Tips to Choosing an Excellent Immigration Lawyer

Get a Referral

Often word-of-mouth is the best way to choose an immigration attorney. Your network of family, friends or colleagues may know other individuals who have dealt with immigration attorneys in order to acquire a green card residency visa or other benefit. You can learn firsthand about the kind of experience the individual had when working with the immigration attorney.

Asking for References

After you’ve been referred to a good lawyer, schedule a consultation where the lawyer strategizes his/her plan of action for your individual situation. Be sure to ask for references. A good immigration lawyer should have great online reviews (Google, Yelp, Avvo) and an abundant list of happy former clients willing to recommend the firm’s services. Other possible resources are researching them via the local bar association, the local chapter of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), and a member in good standing of the Better Business Bureau.

Consider More than Just Price

Don’t blindly choose an immigration lawyer based on pricing. Like many things in life, you get what you pay for. There are plenty of sub-par immigration attorneys out there offering reduced pricing versus the competition. Some may be handling too many cases at once and don’t have a proper team to dedicate quality time and personalized service to your case. Others may not have the proper experience in complicated areas of immigration law.

Hiring a Lawyer Who Speaks Your Language

Choose a lawyer (and a firm) which speaks your language fluently. This improves communication throughout the process and ensures that you and your lawyer are understanding complicated legal nuances.

Build a Relationship with your Attorney

A visa is your first step in being able to legally reside in the United States. It may be the first, but likely not the last, time you’re communicating with the USCIS.

Tips to Choosing an Immigration Lawyer

Use the price as guidance: is it a good indicator?

We may be tempted to choose the lowest price.

After all, who wants to pay more?

However, and as in many other things in life, you get just what you pay for.

Nowadays, there are hundreds of immigration attorneys offering their services at a much lower price than their competitors.

Ask friends/other expats

There is no doubt that those who can give you a more true and real opinion about the service offered by a particular company are the people closest to you.

It is also very likely that a friend or family member has already moved to the country where you want to start your new life. This creates a great opportunity to ask for references when choosing a lawyer.

Lawyer or administrative agent, what is better?

Another frequent question is whether it is better to hire an administrative agent (called “gestor” in Spain) or a lawyer to manage the application procedure.

Although an administrative agent can process your visa application in the same way as a lawyer, it may not be the recommended option.

Check the reputation of the company (read reviews)

Years ago, the only way we had to verify if a company was reliable or not was to ask friends or acquaintances about their experiences with that business.

However, this presented many limitations. First of all, it was unlikely to meet someone who had had contact with that particular company. Second, perhaps one particular case was not significant enough to draw conclusions.

Verify that they usually help people from your same country

It is absolutely true that residence permits for non-European citizens are the same for everyone. And it is also true that the requirements to obtain each of them are set by the immigration law in general and do not depend on the applicant.

However, it is also true that there may be certain discrepancies regarding the requirements requested by each Spanish consulate.

tips on choosing the right immigration attorney

Don’t bargain hunt

Choosing blindly might result in you working with mediocre or terrible immigration attorneys. Some might be handling too many cases at the same time, thus making them unable to dedicate enough time for each client. Some don’t have enough experience in certain areas of immigration law. Some are just trying to charge the heck of their clients.

Get a referral from another founder

First of all, use your own network and try to find other founders who dealt with attorneys and obtained a long-term visa. The old fashion advice remains true: Word-of-mouth advertisement is powerful.

Ask for references

Once you get a referral (or two) to a good attorney, have initial consultation. During the consultation, a good attorney will suggest visa options you should consider.

Negotiate fixed fees ahead of time

Immigration attorneys, just like any other attorneys, charge for their time. However, some attorneys have fixed set of fees for standard procedures, such as preparing and filing your case, and responding to requests for evidence.

Run the process in the cloud

Usually lawyers are very conservative when it comes to adopting new technologies. For security reasons, they stay away from cloud file storages.

How to Find an Excellent Immigration Lawyer

Avoid Lawyers Who Approach You at USCIS or Other Immigration Offices

A few “high-volume, low value” immigration attorneys prowl the hallways of immigration offices attempting to solicit business. This is not considered ethical behavior by the legal bar. Besides, any good immigration attorney is probably going to be too busy practicing immigration law and working for their clients to spend their time rounding up new clients this way.

Make Sure You’re Dealing With a Real Lawyer, Not a “Visa Consultant,” “Notario,” or “Petition Preparer”

Would you ask a neighbor to replace your heart valve, or your doctor to fill out your tax forms? Hopefully not. For the same reasons, only an actual, practicing lawyer should be trusted to handle your immigration matters. Unfortunately, many non-lawyers; even some well-meaning ones, who don’t recognize how complex this area of law really is; claim to be capable of assisting foreigners who need help with the immigration process. In many cases, they offer little value other than a typing service. In the worst cases, they may literally take your money and run, or fill out your forms in wrong and dangerous ways without telling you the meaning of what they’re doing.

Research the Lawyer

You can probably find out a lot about your lawyer online: whether he or she is listed as a member of a state bar association (a requirement) and of the American Immigration Lawyers’ Association or AILA (a professional organization that most of the best attorneys join); whether he or she gets good reviews on websites like Martindale; whether the lawyer has written professional articles for publication; and so on.

Run From Lawyers Who Give Unethical Advice or Make Illegal Offers

Be careful of any immigration attorney who suggests that you do something fishy: perhaps lie on an application or to a USCIS officer, give the attorney extra money with which to bribe an immigration authority, or buy a fake green card from him or her.

Be Skeptical of Unrealistic Promises

Not even the best attorneys can guarantee success. Ultimately, the outcome of you case is up to an immigration judge, the Department of Homeland Defense and/or USCIS. Any attorney claiming he or she has a 100% success rate and guaranteeing you a particular outcome may need to be more closely evaluated.

Use Unloading Services To Send Many Things

Posted on by

Unloading With No Dock – Crane Vans and Trucks

STUFF, STRIP, UNLOAD, LOAD CONTAINERS — ALL WITHOUT A DOCK

So you need to stuff or strip a container, but you don’t have access to a loading dock. What are your options? There are lots of different equipment options and processes that can help you get the job done.

How you go about procuring the right equipment depends on your operation and budget. Buying and maintaining your own equipment may make sense if you’ve got an established operation with regular container throughput. But if you’re running a shorter term project or have capital constraints, renting the equipment, or paying a contractor to supply a container handling service, may be right for you.

From an operating standpoint, you have two general options for loading and unloading containers without a dock:

OPTION #1 – KEEP THE CONTAINER ON THE CHASSIS

Lift the cargo between the ground and the container
Use a mobile yard ramp

OPTION #2 – PLACE THE CONTAINER ON GROUND

Use a crane
Use a heavy forklift, reach stacker or mini straddle
Use a swing lift or side loader
Use a vertical container lift or C-Lift
Use a fixed C-Lift in place of a dock

Using forklifts to unload straight trucks and semi trailers

One of the most dangerous operations involving forklifts is the loading and unloading of trucks and trailers. The reason is the change from the stable floor of the loading dock to the unstable deck of the truck or trailer. Not only may the vehicle being driven into be unstable, but the dockplate itself can be a hazard.

Have your employees perform the following before unloading:

Set the brakes

Make sure that the brakes are set on the vehicle to be unloaded. This could range from air brakes or spring-loaded brakes on semi-trailers to hand brakes on other vehicles.

Secure the vehicle

Secure the vehicle to the loading dock by using a mechanical dock locking system, if available. It may also be a good idea to use wheel chocks, even though OSHA no longer requires them. By securing the trailer, it is prevented from moving away from the loading dock when the forklift enters and leaves it.

Install the dockboard or plate

Install the dockboard or plate, and check it to make sure that it overlaps the truck or trailer floor and loading dock sufficiently to be secure, and that it is square with the loading area.

Check the condition of the trailer floor

The operator should inspect the floor of the truck or trailer to make sure that it is safe. Check for any weak, rotten or otherwise unsafe areas. If any are found, the forklift should not be driven onto it. Instead, a pallet jack may have to be used to load or unload these vehicles.

Make sure the nose of the trailer is supported

If the tractor has been removed from the trailer, the nose of the trailer must be supported by placing nose cones or jackstands to prevent the trailer from upending.

Check the lighting

Check the lighting in the trailer to see if there is adequate lighting for the job. If lighting is poor, turn on the trailer lights or use supplemental lighting.

The Safest Way to Unload Your Truck

Truckers are most prone to musculoskeletal injuries while loading and unloading their truck; this is due to the strain that bending, lifting, and heavy items put on the body. Sprains, hernias, and even fractures can occur due to improper body mechanics. Other accidents can occur in and around the truck to bystanders and workers. Securing both the truck and the unloading area is crucial for safety reasons. Here are several ways you can improve your working body form and safely unload your truck each time:

Before unloading, perform a load risk assessment using your judgment. Check for items that aren’t secured or may be broken. Look for spillage or hazardous materials. Ensure the truck is parked in a safe place, and that you aren’t unloading in inclement weather.
Ensure the truck is on a level surface, parked, with the engine off. Keys should be out of the ignition.
Don your personal protective equipment, if necessary. These may include gloves, helmets, UV glasses, high visibility garments, wrist guards, steel-toed boots, long-sleeved shirts and pants, earplugs, and sunscreen.
Restrict personnel on foot from the loading zone to prevent accidents and confusion.
Ensure appropriate forklift and machinery equipment licensing and experience.

How Many Pallets Fit in a Truck?

“2 standard-sized pallets can fit side by side in the truck”

When it comes to LTL shipping, standard pallet size is very important in loading shipping pallets in the back of the carrier trucks. Most trucks used in LTL shipping are approximately 96″ wide. This means that two standard sized pallets can fit side by side in the truck. It also means slightly larger pallets, up to 48″x 48″, can also be loaded side by side.

Types of moving trucks you can rent

Usually, there are several different kinds of moving trucks you’ll be able to rent from rental companies. These are:

Pickup trucks : These trucks are ideal for small moves where you need to relocate just a couple of boxes along with your mattresses. The maximum weight that can be carried by these vehicles is around 2,000 pounds with an estimated volume of around 76 cubic feet.
Cargo vans : These vans are suitable for a small and local move whereby you’re relocating from a studio apartment. Cargo vans have a volume of around 245 cubic feet with a carrying capacity of 4,000 pounds.
Box trucks : If your house is bigger than a studio apartment you’ll probably need a box truck to move your belongings. These are the most common types of moving vehicles. Though they’re more expensive than the other kinds of trucks, they’ll still cost you far less than using a full-fledged professional moving service. These trucks are available in a variety of sizes to suit your needs.