Tag Installation & Maintenance

Choosing a barking dog alarm system that can monitor and detect all the unnecessary movements in your home is quite a challenging task. We all know that the biggest asset we have is our home and its contents, thus, protecting them should be on our checklist. A barking dog alarm effectively reduces home robberies and burglaries rate.

An unlawful entry with the intention of committing theft and robbery is defined as burglary – even if it includes no forcible entry. According to research, almost 22 percent of robbery cases happen in the United States, losing almost $4 billion worth of property to its victims. Plus, it keeps on increasing as time pass by. When it comes to crime-reductions and safety measures, most people are aware that being watchful on that can save countless expenses, hassles and even stress. So, getting a reliable barking dog alarm for home security requires a bit of practicality.

Of course, as consumers, we always wanted to double check and read or hear some reviews about a specific product before making any purchase. This is to make sure that what we are spending is worth it. To help you check out home security systems that can effectively deter burglars, try looking for a reliable home security adviser. Most home security advisers would simply advise that an alarm system with a barking sound can work better in any type of home.

A barking dog alarm often provides convenience to its users as it always comes with a remote control and can be plugged on home standard power outlet. Aside from that, this security system is user-friendly, requires no installation, and maintenance-free. But of course, it requires a little cleaning or dusting. Some reliable brands are weatherproof which can work even during winter.

A barking dog alarm is the ideal watch guard since it does what even the best living and breathing watchdog can’t do like keeping active and alert within 24 hours. It never sleeps even if there is a power shortage as it usually comes with back up power supply. This electronic anti-burglar device can protect homes, apartments, mobile homes, RVs, jewelry stores, hotels, factories and warehouses from theft and robbery. In addition, it usually comes with radar sensitivity feature which can be adjusted from 0 to 20 meters range. It can also detect every movement even through thick walls and glasses and even at the back of it. Some dog barking alarms can be plugged into an appliance timer which can be programmed whenever you want it to function.

The barking noise sounds very real that may let intruders assume that you have an angry German shepherd inside. And as the intruder advances, the barking sounds get louder and fiercer. But the sounds can be adjusted as well. Some brands provide four sound settings with controllable volumes. This can be adjusted from a barking dog sound to a tranquil sound of the rainforest, and even to a chime.

Barking dog alarm is the most efficient way to deter burglars and to keep your home safe and secured especially if you are out for travel. This can create a realistic barking sound and can detect unnecessary movement within 20 meter range and provide a realistic solution to increasing robbery cases.

Source by Sara Ramsey

Is your home in dire need of a new roof? There are many types of roofing materials, with varying degrees of pros and cons. For example, a roofing contractor may recommend one material that is more expensive than others, but it may be worth it to you in the long run because it will last longer, saving you money down the road.

Since there are many materials to choose from, it is a good idea to know a little about the materials you have to choose from. Then you can start talking to a roofing contractor in your area.

Metal – Metal roofing comes in the form of steel, aluminum, tin, and copper. The typical metal roofing is lightweight and resistant to fire, mildew and rot. It also does well in nasty weather, such as high winds and heavy precipitation.

Asphalt Shingles – Asphalt Shingles are one of the most widely used roofing covers on the market. This is due, in part, to the fact that they are relatively inexpensive and fairly simple to install.

Now for a few disadvantages to asphalt shingles. First, they have a relatively short life-span at 15 to 30 years. In heat exposure, it can scar easily and can have issues with mildew and moss. This risk can be minimized with a warranty from the manufacturer, which can range from 5 to 20 years.

Wood Shingles – If maintained well, wood shingles can last for 50 years, or more. They are often made from western red cedar, which is resistant to rot and decay.

There are two types to choose from: a hand-sawn and tapered shingle, called a shake, and a shingle that is sawed. Wood shingles blend in well with the surrounding environment and are easy to repair or replace. They are, however, on the pricey side.

Clay Tile – Clay tile has several advantages when used for roofing. It is resistant to mold and decay, is not flammable, and is very durable. This is a popular choice for homes with a Southwestern, Italian, or Spanish Mission design. It is prevalent in California and Florida. On the other hand, clay roof is very heavy and expensive to install. And, it should never be walked on.

Slate – Slate roofing lasts long and is nearly indestructible. It is low maintenance and fireproof. The trade-off is that slate is expensive. But what comes with the hefty price tag is the knowledge that you have a roof that will never be replaced in your lifetime.

Before you make a decision on what roofing materials you use, be sure to evaluate the cost of installation and what level of durability you need and are comfortable with. A good roof will often last a lifetime. But a poorly installed roof will be not only dangerous, but costly down the road. Make sure you choose a roofing contractor who has demonstrated a track record of durable, well-installed roofing and a history of happy customers.

Source by Kevin Getch

What is VoIP?

Put simply, VoIP is a type of telephony that uses an internet connection instead of a traditional landline. A landline uses coded pulses of electricity to transmit soundwaves over fibre optic cables or copper wire; whereas VoIP transmits calls through the same cables as an internet connection. Soundwaves are converted into digital data that then travel to the receiver.

The next question business owners are asking is: Which is better for business telecoms, VoIP or landline?

To help you compare business telecoms solutions, we’ve unpacked a few of the pros and cons of VoIP.

The business benefits of VoIP

Easy to set up: a VoIP system only needs a calling device, internet connection, and the VoIP software to work. The setup of this system is straightforward, with little to zero downtime on the company network.

Mobility: VoIP services are not fixed to a specific location, allowing you to use your mobile phone as an extension of your office phone. This is a major benefit for companies with employees who work remotely.

Advanced functionality: VoIP offers more than just voice, with a wide selection of additional features, such as video conferencing.

Cheaper: VoIP calls are significantly cheaper than landline services and offer free international calls. The installation and maintenance of the hardware and software also come at a lower cost than that of traditional systems.

Scalability: VoIP systems only rely on an internet connection, allowing for an unlimited number of lines.

Streamlined solution: a fixed monthly cost makes financial management easier, and having one supplier for both data and voice provides greater efficiency and linking of technologies.

VoIP’s potential pitfalls

Security: the security of the line is reliant on the level of security of the internet connection. For this reason, VoIP connections are easier to remotely hack than landlines, especially if the network security is not set up to be resilient as it can be.

Internet-dependent: VoIP calling relies on the level of quality and stability of your internet connection. Businesses with high call and internet traffic volumes may experience network issues if their Internet connection is not fast enough or if the power is out.

Software issues: if an unstable operating system or VoIP is used to host calls, the quality and reliability can be compromised.

Low-speed connections: businesses without a high

-speed connection or those in more remote areas may not have a suitable connection speed for high-quality VoIP.

Leave it to the business telecoms experts

Source by Shea Karssing

There are many options available to you if you are interested in obtaining landscaping services. You should never make the decision without taking time and careful consideration when choosing a company. You should make enquires at several places to try and get the best deal you can. You can ask your friend or neighbors, search the Internet, or go to one of the two specialized companies mentioned later in this article. With some time and research you can get excellent quality work within your budget.

Some Available Landscaping Services

One of the most popular landscaping companies around is Relms Landscaping Services. This is an extremely well known company that can create and build anything your desire. They can also help you with any landscaping project you need. They are experienced at maintaining gardens and yards, can help with additional plantings, build a pond, or form your own landscaping company. They deal with both residential and commercial landscaping.

Some of the services that Relms offers are landscape lighting installation, irrigation installation and maintenance, lawn/turf management programs, tree/stump removal, perennial cutback, tree/shrub pruning, walls, walks, patios, redesign, island beds, water gardens, foundation plantings and more. Many times landscaping companies can provide ideas that you may not be aware of to make all your space come together into a cohesive unit.

Northwest Landscaping also offers excellent landscaping services. They do an excellent job with maintaining luxurious flowerbeds, shrubs, lawns as well as weeding, fertilizing, planting and mowing. They feel that you should be proud of your lawn just as they are proud of the product that they supply. They are dedicated to creating and maintaining all of their properties to the highest standards. They are known for their unparalleled customer service and have excellent communication with property owners. All of their employees are trained professionals that are well qualified and have excellent experience.

This company has proven their work with over 140 years of experience. Over this time span they have achieved and maintained a respected reputation in the landscaping industry. No matter what services they are providing they are always professional and proactive. Their use of technology, efficient systems and competitive pricing will be sure to leave a lasting impression.

It does not matter which landscaping services company you choose as long as you take enough time to completely consider which company is the best for your landscaping plans. You need to feel comfortable with the landscapers and confident that they will work well with your ideas.

Source by Cindy Heller

If you are planning to create your first website, then you can do that with the help of the WordPress blogging platform. Instead of doing this yourself you could hire a professional WordPress developer. They are hired to complete WordPress development projects that normally include the implementation, system design, extension development, integration, customization, theme creation, design works, modules development, existing modulation, module installation and maintenance support. Although WordPress is easy to use for most people, taking it to the next level requires coding knowledge and skills.

Nowadays, there are companies that are hiring WordPress developers to help them in creating their blogs and providing web management. WordPress is a system that can be used for all kinds of web development. It has been used to create successful news sites, business sites, online magazines, corporate sites and shopping sites with full ecommerce functionality.

WordPress is an open source program which means that it can be changed by people that understand its structure and have PHP coding skills. The standard set up is fine for most individuals who want to start a blog but businesses will likely want to take this a step further. If you are intent on having a WordPress site that has a totally unique them and other functionality then an experienced WordPress develop will be required to achieve this. These are some of the things that should look for when choosing the best developer to do the job for you:

The first thing that you need to look for is some evidence that they know what they are doing. They should be well grounded in web programming be experts at using the PHP coding language. It is always a good idea to ask a potential developer to show you examples of previous work that they have done for other clients. This is not always easy as many clients will want complete confidentiality with their development work and will not want their competitors copying them. With any kind of development work it is essential that your requirements are fully detailed before any work starts on the project. The developer should be willing to show you how the work is progressing on a regular basis so that any small changes can be recorded and completed along the way. If you wait until the whole job is complete any changes may be a lot more difficult to make.

To find a good developer you can go online and search for them. Most developers will show examples of their previous work where their customers will allow this. You will be unlikely to find any standard pricing for this work on their web site as each job will be different and until the full requirements are known it will not be possible to obtain a quotation and estimate of the time it will take to complete the project. With this in mind you need to try and define your requirements at the start so that you can contact a few companies and compare their prices and delivery dates.

Source by Ajana Tarana

The roof is one of the most important parts of an establishment. Unfortunately, it is also one of the most neglected and forgotten as many building owners often overlook small cracks and leaks only to find greater damage in the long run. Here are reasons why you should hire a personal roof inspection and repair company to take care of one of the most important safety features of your property:

• A professional service can provide you with a great variety of services. These experts can and will do so much more than just discover and repair leaks on your roof. They can also offer a wide range of maintenance services, ranging from constructing roof flashing, repairing water damage, and replacing shingles. They can also fix other critical parts of your roofing, ranging from vent pipes and chimneys to skylights and drainage systems. They can also perform interior damage repair caused by leaky roofs to make sure that your property is in good condition from the inside out.

• Commercial roofing contractors also have an extensive supply of high quality materials that ensure reliable repair services. This means any damage repair they carry out are guaranteed to last long. Typical roofing materials available at your local hardware store are often inferior to what these companies are supplied. They often use specially designed roofing materials and finishes such as elastomeric coating, which enhance the durability and quality of roofs.

• Professional leak repair services are also cost-effective. Even when you have commercial-scale repair needs, professional services aren’t as expensive as they may seem. As a matter of fact, you will end up saving a great deal of your hard earned money by seeking the help of professional repairmen in the first place, rather than trying to fix the damage on your own. A professional roofer will not only offer you short-term solutions to your leak problems but provide you with options that will help you prevent damage in the long term. Settling for unprofessional repair work can actually cost you more in the long run, especially when the temporary repair fails and causes more irreversible damage.

• Safety is another major advantage of hiring professional commercial roofing contractors. Trying to repair building leaks can be quite dangerous. Professionals have all the right equipment, tools, and skills to make sure that repairs go well, with the safety of their workers and their clients in mind. They also guarantee protection of your property throughout the duration of the repair project.

Source by Lee Manheim

Commercial roofing is a critical but often overlooked part of successful business operations. A building’s roof shields it from the elements, helps to maintain a comfortable indoor climate, and protects the people and assets inside. Proper maintenance and regular inspections ensure that this important covering continues to do its job without having an adverse impact on profits.

Check for Problems After Extreme Weather

Surface damage caused by weathering or environmental hazards is usually most visible after heavy rain, high wind, or snowfall. Visual signs, such as standing water or bubbled materials, often signify trouble. Flashing, the material that protects the seam between the structure’s walls and its cover, should be inspected for loose or missing sections.

Schedule Regular Inspections

Biannual inspections are the best way to keep commercial roofing in optimal condition. A professional examination is recommended, although some building owners check for damage and then call their contractors for an in-depth diagnosis. In best practice, inspections are scheduled in early spring and late fall, just after the harshest seasons.

Stay Alert to Signs of Water Damage

Neglected repairs eventually manifest inside the building. Stained ceiling tiles and discolored walls may indicate deteriorated or damaged decking material, while bulges or cracks could signify more extensive damage. Discolored or rotting window frames also suggest moisture or water damage that may be roof-related, as do signs of mold on the inside or outside of the structure.

Keep Gutter Systems Clean and Clear

The gutter system carries water away from the building. Clogged gutters or drainpipes often prevent proper drainage, causing rain and moisture to accumulate in certain areas. Systems should be cleaned twice per year, although storms and high winds sometimes necessitate more frequent cleanings.

Elevate or Remove Nearby Trees

Overhanging trees pose several hazards. Dead or storm-damaged branches may fall, puncturing or scratching the roof. Trees also drop leaves, pine cones, sap, and other debris onto the surfaces beneath them, often contributing to deterioration. Property owners should regularly remove dead branches threatening their buildings and keep healthy limbs trimmed so that they do not touch the structure.

Ward off Summer Sun

Harmful UV rays may decrease the lifespan of traditional commercial roofing, and hot sunny days typically increase energy costs. Cool Roofs are cost-friendly solutions. Coatings and single-ply membranes offer protection to flat coverings, and pitched types benefit from light-colored tiles or coated metal. These products can decrease rooftop temperatures by 50 to 60 degrees during summer.

Invest in a Commercial Roofing Maintenance Plan

Many contractors offer maintenance packages to extend the life of a structure’s cover. These programs typically include regular inspections, as well as other preventive care services such as resealing. A maintenance plan provides peace of mind, and it makes it easy to detect problems early, minimizing unexpected expenses in the future.

The life expectancy of commercial roofing materials ranges from 25 to 40 years, or more. Proper maintenance, timely repairs, and the right preventive care are the most cost-effective ways to maximize the performance of a structure’s covering.

Source by Antoinette Ayana

Facilities form the non-core services of a corporation or any organization. Non-core services can include managing administration function, property management, and managing contract services such as cleaning and security. A major portion of the assets of an organization is in the form of infrastructure, like buildings and equipment. Hence, the maintenance of physical assets is a major function of facilities management.

The role of facilities management is to help businesses concentrate in their core competent areas. Facilities management takes on the role of providing routine, non-value-added services which are essential and important for the effective running of an organization.

Facilities management in its widest sense can be applied to any industries. The industries range from public services such as schools, universities and parks, to private services such as manufacturing. Anything that can be outsourced to a third party can be termed as facilities.

Since most of functions of facilities are routine, the role and capacity of IT is precisely suited for that function. IT provides end-to-end solutions for an enterprise. ERP and EAM systems take on the role of MRP systems to streamline operations and help reduce costs.

Physical assets such as buildings, equipment and IT installations require regular maintenance; therefore, the role of IT in providing maintenance solutions is a major part of the portfolio of ERP providers. Maintenance is a major function of facilities. According to a study, properly planned and maintained services can lead to a 20 percent reduction in the operating cost of a firm.

The level and scope of functionality varies in the maintenance management system, according to the type of industries and physical assets. Therefore, except for standard functions like maintenance audits and down-time calculators, most of the software functionalities should be customized.

These are many software vendors available, each of whom has an internet presence. The futuristic vision of maintenance management systems is already implemented by some vendors who provide on-demand remote maintenance services, thereby reducing the costs of installing of maintenance systems further.

Source by Eddie Tobey

Do you think your heating and air conditioning systems are efficient enough for your needs?

If you’re in the market for a reliable HVAC service that will not only help install the system for you, but also optimize it and make sure you’re getting the best value for your money, there are a lot of factors you need to consider.

It’s important for you to take your time when you’re choosing a contractor and question them to determine if they’re suitable for the job. Let’s take a look at 4 essential factors you should consider when looking for commercial HVAC services.

Before you can hire a repair service provider, make sure they are state-licensed. Licensed companies are known to provide high-quality services because they have the necessary knowledge and skills. They’re also well-acquainted with necessary expertise about different models and know the right type of equipment that’s required for installation of the HVAC systems depending on the varying needs of their clients.

Another way to determine whether an HVAC contractor is suitable for the job or not is by making sure they offer a wide range of services. This is important because if you ever run into problems with your HVAC system down the line and need to get your system repaired, the initial contractor is usually best suited for that.

The contractor you’ve hired should provide extensive services like installation, repair and maintenance, estimation, etc. so you can avoid jumping from one contractor to another in case a problem arises.

Experience is key when it comes to hiring a reliable HVAC service. Since commercial HVAC units are incredibly different from those used in residential properties, you need to look for an experienced contractor that will take your specific needs into consideration and recommend the best system for your commercial space.

It’s important for you to do your research about the previous jobs they’ve done successfully, and you may even consider getting in touch with some of their clients to understand the overall quality of the services they offer.

Referrals and recommendations play an important role in helping you decide whether the HVAC contractor you’ve chosen is suitable for you. When you’re looking for the services of an HVAC technician or specialist, it’s advisable that you ask people you know and trust to recommend any services they’ve used in the past.

They can help you narrow down your options and give you the confidence you need that the contractor will be able to deliver the task that you’ve hired them for. It will also help you make an informed decision without wasting crucial time.

Once you’ve considered all the factors, don’t forget to interrogate the prospective contractors to determine if they’re qualified to provide a reliable service. It’s also recommended that you do a background check before hiring them to avoid any complications later on.

Source by David Kagan

Asphalt is among the most popular commercial paving materials used today due to its water-resistance, flexibility, aesthetic appeal, and excellent adhesive abilities. All of these properties and more make asphalt pavement an asset that requires a structured level of preservation and care. Otherwise, it is prone to fading, damage, instability, and various other negative implications. With proper preventative maintenance, asphalt pavements can remain beautiful and functional for years. Not only is this ideal for investment purposes, but for liability as well. If you are an involved property owner, continue reading to learn the best methods for asphalt maintenance and care.

Asphalt Maintenance

Although pavement maintenance agendas will differ from property to property, the overall purpose of asphalt maintenance is to sustain its appeal and extend its life. Some paving maintenance tasks can be managed on your own or by an appointed staff, such as inspections and trash clearance; while others are best left in the hands of trained and equipped professionals. An ideal pavement maintenance should include basic tasks like regular assessments, sweeping, crack filling, pothole repair, periodic line striping, and most importantly, seal coating. Without a proper sealcoat, asphalt pavements will experience heightened wear and tear from traffic, weather, chemicals, salts, and more, which shortens their life and diminishes their aesthetic value.

Asphalt Seal Coating

Seal coats are emulsions that are brushed or sprayed onto pavements, providing a clear protective layer against moisture and the above-mentioned threats. There are several types of commercial sealcoats available on the market, but the most popular versions include fog seal, slurry seal, and chip seal emulsions. Some sealcoat products are water-based, which are easier and safer to spread. But there are also waterless versions that use organic or plant-based oils or hydrocarbon solvents instead.

Choosing to Seal Coat

If your asphalt pavement is old and in poor condition, it will not likely benefit from a new layer of seal coat. In some cases, it is more cost-effective to repair or replace deteriorated asphalt pavements instead. However, if your asphalt is in good condition, a periodic re-sealing can be a highly-beneficial maintenance decision. Talk to your trusted paving contractor for a professional recommendation of your asphalt’s maintenance and sealcoating schedule. They will know exactly what your property needs and at what intervals. The cost of having your asphalt seal-coated will depend on several factors, such as the square footage, the condition of pavement, and any additional surface applications needed.

Source by Sarahbeth Kluzinski