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Lights, Counters, And Kitchen Remodeling

Renovation in a kitchen

Taking on a renovation in a kitchen can be downright daunting. It’s one of the most-used rooms in your home and needs to be equal parts functional and beautiful. But with all the different moving parts—appliances, sinks, lighting, cabinets, and more—it’s tough to know where to begin. Plus, there’s the issue of cost and time. It’s a lot! Thankfully, Apartment Therapy (and some helpful experts) did the heavy lifting for you. Here, pros weigh in on every step of the process, from planning all the way to the finish line, so you can feel empowered to create the kitchen of your dreams. Click on each question to find out the answer to anything you may be wondering about.

PLANNING IT OUT

1 How much will my kitchen remodel cost?

2 How do I finance my kitchen remodel?

3 Can I do a budget kitchen renovation?

4 How long will my kitchen remodel take?

5 Is there any one project I can do that will have a big impact on my kitchen?

6 Should I do a DIY kitchen renovation or hire someone?

7 What kinds of pros are needed for each part of the project?

8 How do I find reputable pros?

9 In what order should I renovate my kitchen?

10 Do I need a permit to remodel my kitchen?

11 How do I design a kitchen remodel?

12 What measurements do I need to know?

13 What else should I know about my kitchen before I get started?

14 I rent. Which of these things are for me?

15 How much value will a kitchen renovation add to my home?

16 Are there any upgrades that aren’t worth it?

ALL ABOUT CABINETS

17 How do I renovate kitchen cabinets?

18 How do I paint my cabinets? Can I leave the doors on?

19 How much time will it take to paint my cabinets?

20 How do I pick my cabinet color?

21 What materials do I need for this project if I’m doing it myself?

22 If I hate my cabinet doors, do I have to replace the whole cabinet?

23 Should I go for open shelving or not?

24 Should my cabinets go all the way to the ceiling?

25 How do I maximize storage if I’m not changing the size of my kitchen?

26 Is it better to get cabinets with doors or with drawers?

27 What if I live in a rental—is there anything I can do?

Kitchen Remodels

We take the time to understand your goals so we can build a kitchen that’s unique to you and your home. Maybe your ideal kitchen is contemporary or traditional, U-shaped or galley-style, custom or prefab — or somewhere in between. We can preserve the original look and feel, or build something completely different.

When remodeling a kitchen, there are countless layout and style options to choose from. Most often, our clients are interested in transforming a closed-off kitchen into larger open-concept space connected to the home’s dining and living areas. Common kitchen remodeling projects include:

Removing walls to create an open floor plan

Reconfiguring the kitchen layout to improve the room’s flow

Updating the appliances, countertops, cabinets, and other fixtures

Upgrading or repairing the appliances, electrical, or plumbing

Adding windows, built-ins, or other custom features

MERCER ISLAND NEW CONSTRUCTION

This high-end kitchen is part of one of our custom-built homes. Upgrades include a double wall oven, beverage cooler, and 6-burner gas range, and more.

GREENWOOD VILLAGE KITCHEN REMODEL

We transformed this closed-off layout into an open floor plan. By removing a wall and altering the layout, the new space flows much more naturally.

WOODINVILLE ADDITION & KITCHEN RENOVATION

We revamped this home’s layout to accommodate a new upstairs bonus room and garage. Downstairs, we introduced lots of light and modern finishes to the kitchen and living room.

Kitchen Remodels: 3 Budgets, 3 Kitchens

Is your current kitchen out of date or not functioning well? Is it too small or closed off from the rest of your home? Perhaps you’re ready to get cooking with a brand-new kitchen remodel, but the whole thing is feeling a bit overwhelming, from cabinetry to countertops, and appliances to air ducts.

The Basic Kitchen Remodel

Love to cook but not in love with your current kitchen? A basic, cosmetic remodel elevates your existing layout, appliances, and fixtures and spares expenses for plumbing and ductwork, while implementing the professional polish essential to a complete remodel. A basic kitchen remodel involves replacing easily removed products and typically runs $20,000 – $35,000.

So, what does a basic remodel look like? Here are some items it might include.

Efficient Lighting — Recessed lights are nice, but they offer a lot less illumination than the average light fixture (60 vs. 120+ W). Simple light fixtures with 120w, 180w, or more can be simple, tasteful, and brilliantly illuminating, all without the hefty price tag.

Simple Appliances — One of the keys to a successful basic kitchen remodel is the use of simple appliances that don’t need to be built-in. Nixing the custom cabinetry saves you both money and time.

Go Vinyl — What’s a remodel without new flooring? Vinyl is the versatile material of choice for floors and other surfaces, and can even make a great-looking backsplash. Speaking of backsplashes, if it’s in your budget, a ceramic tile backsplash is a great splurge for an extra stylish finish to your basic kitchen remodel.

Cabinet Hardware — Reusing your existing cabinetry is one of the key ways to keep costs down, but that doesn’t mean you have to live with dated or damaged storage. Fix up any broken cabinets or replace cabinet doors and consider adding new cabinet hardware to upgrade your kitchen. When it comes to cabinets, a little goes a long way.

Lovely Laminates — Laminate is a surface material whose reputation has come a long way in recent years. Photo printed laminate countertops and a bevy of striking edge designs provide lots of aesthetic choices at low cost.

The Mid-Level, Pull and Replace Kitchen Remodel

Want to break the mold of your existing kitchen layout? A pull and replace kitchen remodel lets you do just that. Whether it’s a new island or professional-grade appliances, a mid-level remodel totally reworks your kitchen from the ground up, including moving appliances, plumbing, ductwork, electrical, and more. Ranging from $25,000 – $55,000, a mid-level kitchen remodel creates the space you need for the renewed functionality you desire.

A pull and replace kitchen remodel may include:

Professional Appliances — Liberate your inner chef with awesome appliances. From stainless steel refrigerators to double convection ovens, it’s all on the table.

The Island — As the focal point to your new kitchen remodel, why not consider an island? It’s perfect for serving up a meal hot from the oven, or for the family to gather around as dinner is being prepared.

Upgraded Cabinetry — Upgrade cabinets with standard cabinet sizes and eye-catching materials like maple with a custom glaze. Get the beautiful storage you need without compromising. Make the most of your kitchen’s existing storage space by installing a pull-out shelf in one—or all—of the base cabinets.

Designer Accessories — Select the details and accessories that make your kitchen feel unique. Custom handles and knobs are a great way to make it personal.

New Floors — With a bigger budget, wood and ceramic floors enter the picture, and boy do they make a great impression!

Surfaces Built to Last — For surfaces that look and feel amazing year after year, look no further than stone counters and glass tile backsplashes. Pricier than laminate, quartz and natural stone (like granite), look sharp for decades

How to Get Your Kitchen Renovation Done on a Budget

They say that the kitchen is the heart of a home. That’s because it’s where some of our fondest memories are made. It’s why we dream about beautiful, functional spaces to host our family and friends and invest time, energy and finances into transforming them.

When you have finally made the decision to entertain a kitchen renovation or remodel, a little bit of planning, the right guidance, and getting your priorities straight can go a long way to ensuring  your kitchen dreams are fulfilled without over spending!

Do your Homework and Have a Vision

Before jumping into kitchen remodelling headfirst, take some time to research. Social media accounts of designers, cabinet makers and other kitchen product providers are full of inspiring pictures.  The more thorough you are with your research up front, the more streamlined and cost-conscious your renovation project will be.

Once you have a clear idea about your kitchen’s appearance, you can plan the remodel accordingly and avoid any mid-way design changes that can stack up your expenses. When you are planning your kitchen remodel, consider carefully what your top three issues really are and channel your resources into solving those.  Maybe you don’t need to change  everything about your kitchen. If it’s storage you need, research how to gain storage without changing your kitchen layout drastically. If it’s functionality, get creative with your space and some of the space saving appliances that are in the market.

Focus on Details

Large kitchen renovations are certainly big on WOW factor, but you don’t always have to spend a big buck to get a big bang! A complete overhaul on your kitchen can be great, but sometimes a few small changes can make a big impact on your kitchen’s look and keep the renovation cost down.

Kitchen Remodel Contractor on Thumbtack cost

Nationally, the average cost of a kitchen remodel is $12,961. Across the board, Thumbtack kitchen remodel contractors state that the average time to remodel a kitchen is three to six weeks.

Average costs based on remodel size

Your kitchen size impacts your remodel costs. The larger the kitchen, the more materials, labor and prep work required. For example, Illinois estimates that in his region customers spend, on average, $18,000 for a small kitchen remodel, $30,000 for a medium kitchen remodel, and $50,000 for a larger kitchen remodel.

40 to 60-square-foot kitchen (small): $16,000-$18,000 for a standard renovation, including new counters, floor, backsplash, cabinets, and mid-range appliances.

135 to 165-square-foot kitchen (medium): $28,000-$30,000 for galley kitchen in a townhome or smaller home, including new counters, floor, backsplash, cabinets, and mid-range appliances.

A medium kitchen can also be $65,000-$70,000 or more, depending on finishes and components. explains that the  difference is spending:

$2,200 on countertops or $9,000 on countertops

$5,000 on cabinets or $20,000 on customized cabinets

$1,000 or $4,000 on tile backsplash

$800 on a hood oven

or $5,000 on a hood oven with exhaust

360-square-feet and up (large): $45,000-$50,000 for a large kitchen renovation with standard finishes

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Handle The Roof Inspection On Your Home Like A Pro With These Tips

How to Inspect a Roof for Roofing Damage

The Importance of Roof Damage Inspections

Sometimes it’s immediately obvious that there’s a problem with your roof, such as broken tiles on the ground after a storm or water leaking through your roof after heavy rain or hail storm. Importantly, it’s not always so simple to spot some of the signs of roofing damage, at first glance. Knowing how to check your roof for roofing damage is very important, as you’ll be able to identify serious problems quickly and stay one step ahead of maintenance concerns when they arise. Once you know how to perform basic checks, it’ll be easier to monitor the health of your roof and catch small problems before they escalate into expensive repairs!

Here are three simple steps for how to check your roof for roofing damage:

Step One: Inspect the Property Exterior

Examining the roof from the ground is the best place to start. You should be able to get a good idea of your roof’s condition this way, just make sure that you make a note of any areas that look abnormal or have clear signs of damage.

Slowly make your way around the exterior of your home, checking the ground and roof for signs of damage like fallen branches and broken/missing shingles. Keep an eye out for moss and algae growth on your roof, as it’ll need removing to prevent moisture damage. If the moss has been in place for a long time, then it may already have caused damage.

Next, you need to take a closer look at the shingles. If you’re not comfortable climbing up to your roof or you don’t have the correct safety equipment, then using binoculars will help you to identify problems. Check for aged, cracked, and sagging shingles, and any signs that the shingles are curling, buckling, or have lost their texture.

If any shingles are missing or have become damaged or separated, the inside of your home will be much more vulnerable to water damage.

Inspecting Metal & Flat Roofs

If your home doesn’t have a shingle roof, then inspecting it can actually be a lot easier. You can quickly inspect metal roofs for dents, holes, rust, and panel separation. For flat roofs, keep an eye out for tears in the material, holes, and standing water.

Step Two: Look Around the Attic

After checking the exterior, it’s time to inspect your attic. If your roof is damaged, then there’ll often be visible signs of the damage on the interior.

First check for any signs of active leaks – using a flashlight will help you to spot water quickly. Then check for holes, making sure that you inspect all parts of the roof carefully for signs of light leaking in.

Water rings on the roof, areas that are darker than others, and sagging are all clear signs that your roof has been damaged.

Step Three: Examine the Flashing, Guttering & Vents

Flashing is a thin metal strip that’s used to seal joints and keep water out of the interior of your home; vents, chimneys and other objects on your roof will have flashing. Using binoculars again if you have them, check the flashing on your roof for gaps, rust, or signs that it has moved – the flashing should be completely flush with the roof.

Next, check your vents for dents or other visible signs of damage. Make sure that they’re not blocked and are working properly.

Finally, you need to inspect your guttering. Blocked and damaged gutters can cause major damage to your roof, so it’s important to check them properly. Check whether the gutters are sagging or have become loose, inspect them for tears and holes, and make sure there are no blockages.

You should also check the gutters and downspouts for signs of granules that may have come off the shingles.

Why should you inspect your roof?

Roof systems can deteriorate from normal wear, severe weather conditions (e.g. wind and snow loads) building movement (e.g. settlement, material contraction/expansion) and even improper design, so it’s vital that you inspect your roof regularly in order to identify any issues that have developed or may soon occur.

How often should you inspect your roof?

Regular inspections of your roof will lead to early detection of problems. We advise that you perform annual formal visual roof inspections when your roof is free of snow and materials, and informal inspections after any severe weather conditions occur.

What to look for when checking a roof

You can hire a property inspector to do a thorough roof inspection or opt to do it yourself. While it it not the most technical job in the world, homeowners should know what to look for when checking and inspecting their roof. Check if the shingles are intact and in a good condition, and not deteriorating. There should also be no missing tiles.

In addition to the roof, inspect under the eaves and overhangs, the fascia, and guttering for any water damage. Check around all roof interruptions such as skylights, dormers, chimneys, roof mounted antennas or satellite dishes, and vent pipes.

Inspecting different roof types

It’s important to understand that different roof types require different inspection techniques and can be susceptible to different issues. Below we have a guide to how to inspect different roof types. If you’re looking for a more in-depth guide to different types of roof tiles and slates, you can find a comprehensive guide here.

Asphalt roofing

When asphalt shingles age they become brittle and the granules can detach from the shingles. Inspect for bare spots as well as torn or warped shingles.

Metal roofing

Commonly steel, copper, aluminium, or galvanized iron. Most metal roofs have a life expectancy of about 50 years. Perforations, pits, rust, or corrosion can help determine the age of the roof. Check the seams, corners, and joints for loose, dried out, or peeling caulk or another seam material.

Slate and/or clay tile roofing

These normally have around 75 years or lifetime warranties, but they can leak sooner depending on the quality of workmanship. When inspecting, you should avoid walking on these materials as they can break under the weight.

Wooden shakes or shingles

Again, avoid walking on this material. Instead, simply inspect using binoculars or from a ladder. Weather will deteriorate wood shakes and shingles over time. See if there are missing, rotted, warped, or broken shingles or shakes. If a third or more of the roof is damaged, the whole roof needs replacing.

What type of roof damage is not covered by home insurance?

An average homeowner’s insurance policy usually covers things like roof leaks and other roof damage. If your roof is damaged by fire, hail, or wind, then your home insurance should cover the costs of repairing that damage. If that fire, hail, or wind causes a leak in your roof, then home insurance should cover the cost of repairing the roof and any other damage caused by that leak.

However, there are certain types of roof damage that will not be covered by home insurance, including:

  • Wear and tear damage on an older roof
  • Damage caused by unresolved maintenance issues; if your roof has been leaking for years, for example, and you have ignored it until recently, then you may not be able to claim damages caused by that leak.
  • Roof damage caused by wind and hail if your home insurance policy has wind and hail exclusions. See important tips for roof hail damage here.
  • Damage caused by failing to take immediate action after a storm, like failing to put a tarp over the hole in your roof in the days following an accident, leading to more water damage.

Consult your home insurance policy to determine what is and is not covered by your home insurance.

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Engine Rebuilding For Improving Design And Manufacturing

What parts should be replaced when rebuilding an engine?

Steps of an Engine Rebuild

Steps of an Engine RebuildIf you love your car but your engine is no longer usable, you might consider a rebuild instead of buying a new vehicle. When an expert mechanic remanufactures your engine, you can trust that it will become reborn in pristine condition, allowing you to drive your vehicle for potentially hundreds of thousands of more miles. Here’s a look at five steps of successfully remanufacturing an engine.

Remove/Inspect

To start the process, all engine parts must be removed, disassembled, and cleaned. After all components have been cleaned bare, they are then inspected for wear and tear, at which point they’ll be prepared to machine them to original factory specifications.

Machining

Through machining, parts will be smoothened, allowing them to once again work together flawlessly. As part of this process, the engine block is honed and the crankshaft is ground. Also, bearing surfaces and chamfer oil passages will be micropolished. Other parts of the job include connecting rods being straightened and cylinder heads being resurfaced. The tech will also address any other parts that need to be smoothened.

Reassemble Engine

This process will include the installation of a number of new parts, such as: bearings, timing belt, gears, seals, and gaskets.

Testing

A test will then be conducted to check for proper compression and oiling, after which any necessary adjustments will be made.

Reinstallation

Once the rebuild is complete and testing is successful, the engine will be reinstalled and ready for the road.

Why rebuild an engine

There are two main reasons a rebuild would likely be necessary. The first is worn engine bearings, the second involves piston rings that are not seating well. The moving parts of the engine are mounted on engine bearings that are lubricated by engine oil, thus allowing the crankshaft and camshaft and other parts to move freely. Over time the bearings will wear out, resulting in a need to replace them. Poorly seating piston rings will result in blow by, which allows oil to be burnt in the combustion chamber.

What happens during a rebuild?

During a rebuild the engine will be removed from the vehicle, torn down to its bare parts, and inspected for wear and tear. Upon analysis parts will either be machined smooth to return them to a good condition, when applicable. Other times parts may need to be completely replaced. Piston rings and bearings are often replaced, along with pistons themselves when necessary. The engine will be reassembled and installed back in the vehicle, in a like-new condition.

Signs I may need a rebuild

There are a few key signs to look for in your vehicle. If you notice any of the following it may be time for an engine rebuild.

  • Oil consumptions – If you notice your oil level regularly falling or if you need to add oil to the engine between oil changes, then chances are a rebuild is required. This is often a sign of blow by. You may also notice blue exhaust smoke.
  • White exhaust smoke – If you spot excessive exhaust smoke, especially when the engine is cold, it could be a sign of coolant mixing with the gasoline, which is a clear indication of a major problem.
  • Knocking noises – Worn engine bearings will produce a knocking or chattering noise that will rise and fall with the engine RPMs.

Should I Rebuild My Exisiting Engine, Or Replace It With A Remanufactured Engine?

There are pros and cons to each choice. First, is your old engine rebuildable? Not all are. If the block is cracked or otherwise severely damaged, rebuilding it is likely not an option. Are the needed internal parts available? The aftermarket does a great job in supplying components for the more popular engines. However, you may want to first check availability. On a more practical level: What is your skill set, and how much time do you have? The rebuilding process usually requires machine work, so even if you’re taking a week off to perform the rebuild, the outside work may slow you down. Rebuilding may make the most sense if you’re sure that the block can be reused, if the needed parts are available and affordable, and if you have the time and talent.

On the other hand: Why not consider a rebuilt (remanufactured) engine? Most “remans” are done by reputable companies and are accompanied by a warranty. In simple terms, you pull your old engine, and drop in the new one. (In reality, there are a number of components to switch over.) Reasons why you might not want a reman unit include cost (likely higher than rebuilding an engine yourself), availability (you might not have a choice if no remans are out there), and the logistics of getting a 600 lb. engine off a freight truck and returning the old one for core credit. It’s a very individualistic decision, so we’ll proceed and talk about BOTH rebuilding and replacing.

What are the different ways of repairing the engine?

The least expensive is a ring and valve job. This is done for a engine that has lost compression in one or more cylinders or is burning oil. A ring and valve job is done with the engine block in the car. It includes removing the head and rebuilding it, removing the pistons and re-ringing them, honing the cylinder walls if needed and replacing the rod bearings. The philosophy is to repair the engine as needed. Parts that are still good are not replaced. For instance, if the valve guide diameter is still within manufacturers specification, then they are not replaced. You pay for what you get, so if your engine is less damaged then it costs less. Usually you will be quoted for the basic job and after inspection of the components you will get a call back with a more accurate estimate. A ring and valve job can not be done if the cylinder walls are worn beyond specification, the crank is worn, or the deck surface is warped or irregular. These are things that can not be inspected until the engine is taken apart. All machine work for the ring and valve job is done here at Art’s Automotive.

The next option is an in-house rebuild. This repair can fix pretty much any engine problem. Often this type of rebuild starts out as a ring and valve job where worn cylinder walls were found, requiring boring. For this repair the engine block is removed from the car. It includes rebuilding the head, boring the cylinders oversized and new pistons, new timing components, decking the block, replacing the rod and main bearings, replacing the freeze plugs, and other repairs as necessary. The philosophy is to repair the engine as needed. For instance, if the crank journals do not need to be ground undersized, then they aren’t. You pay for what you get so if your engine is less damaged you pay less. Usually you will be quoted for the basic job and after inspection of the components you will get a call back with a more accurate estimate. Art’s Automotive may not do all the machine work for this type of repair. For instance, we cannot service rods or grind cranks, but we will double check all machine work and do the final cleaning and assembly.

The third and most expensive way repair the engine is a rebuilt exchange. The philosophy is to repair everything whether it is needed or not. For instance, a crank in usable condition would be ground undersize anyway. Unfortunately, since Densmore Engines closed, we don’t have a supplier of exchange units that we fully trust. If this option is chosen, the warranty for the engine will be with the supplier of the engine, and any labor warranty will need to be purchased through them as well. We have seen some truly horrible workmanship from rebuilders who have major OE contracts.

Why did the engine go bad in the first place?

This is important to consider. If the engine overheated due to a partially clogged radiator and a new engine is installed without addressing this, the new engine will surely fail too. If your maintenance was spotty and you don’t change your habits, then the new engine will fail as well. There usually is a correctable reason for engine failure. Most of the engines we work on will last the life of the car without needing a rebuild. We have one customer with almost 400,000 miles on her original engine. There are of course fluky failures like an Integra that burned a hole in the head behind the back side of the valve seat at 40,000 miles and an Civic that dropped a valve for no apparent reason, but problems like these are rare. So if the cause of the engine failure in not apparent to you, be sure to ask.

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Chiropractic Care For Earaches In Children

CHIROPRACTIC TESTIMONIALS

had extreme back pain, to the point I was not able to breathe. I had tried everything, medical doctors, acupuncture, muscle relaxers, nothing worked. At this point, I figured “The Chiropractor” cannot make the pain any worse, so I might as well give it a shot.

Along with the back pain, I also experienced frequent headaches, an abnormal monthly cycle and constant knee pain. Dr. has made my back pain nonexistent. My headaches are now infrequent. My cycle is now normal, and we are working on my knee

Severe Vomiting Cured

“I started seeing Dr. I was in the midst of my third bout of severe vomiting. I would get a weird taste in my mouth which would cause me to gag and then vomit. This would get progressively worse until I was vomiting more than 100 times per day requiring hospitalization. Along with these episodes I would occasionally experience seizures.

Awful Headaches

“Before coming to Dr. I had such awful headaches and tension in my back and neck that it made me sick and couldn’t move very well. It made me very irritable and I didn’t sleep well.

Very Nice and Helpful

“Shari was very nice and helpful and greeted me with a smile. Dr. G and Dr. W were amazing at explaining everything on my first visit. They were very thorough with my examination, measuring my range of motion, taking x-rays, and checking for “hot spots” on my skin where my spine was out of alignment. I came into the office in pain and they were able to address those areas same day.

What to Look for When Choosing a Chiropractor

Question: What should I look for when choosing a chiropractor?

Answer: Choosing a chiropractor may, at first, seem bewildering. But the task can be simplified by using a series of steps to narrow down the candidates.

Try to get a referral. Friends, neighbors, family, and especially your primary medical doctor may recommend a chiropractor.

Check if any of the recommended chiropractors are covered by your insurance plan. If you receive a strong recommendation for someone not on that list, you might consider out of network benefits or even private payment.

Do a quality check for credentials by accessing your state licensing board’s website to confirm qualifications and any possible disciplinary action.

Research the condition(s) for which you are seeking treatment. There are any number of credible websites and library resources offering information on conditions like back pain, sciatica, herniated discs, and other musculoskeletal conditions commonly treated by chiropractors.

Visit the practice website. Many chiropractors have websites, and these can be informative. Are they patient-oriented? Are they consistent with the scientific evidence you have learned about your condition?

Don’t pay a lot of attention to marketing tools, such as testimonials. Look instead to confirm that the doctor:

Treats musculoskeletal conditions only

Requires x-rays only when medically necessary

Does not emphasize proprietary supplement sales

Does not encourage long treatment regimens or excessive visits

Does not make scientifically unsupported claims about the value of wellness adjustments or preventive care

Here are some tips to look for in your initial and subsequent encounters with the chiropractor:

Does your chiropractor give sufficient time to you the first visit and on every subsequent visit?

Does he or she appear eager to help you get better as quickly as possible and to empower you to take care of yourself in the future?

Do you feel comfortable with your new chiropractor?

Are you getting better as a result of the treatments and not just the mere passage of time? (When effective treatment is given, most patients will see a significant improvement within the first several weeks of care, and sometimes even sooner.)

Is treatment physically comfortable? (Occasionally there may be some minor treatment soreness or even increase in symptoms after a treatment. This should not last more than a day or so, and improvement should be obvious with further care. If this happens, be sure to let your chiropractor know.)

The following may be warning signs:

Unnecessary repeat x-ray studies

Months of endless care without re-examination

No improvement or even worsening does not result in reexamation or referral elsewhere

Pre-sold treatment “packages”

Pressure to sign up for or attend maintenance or preventive care programs.

Chiropractic Blog Topics To Realign Your Marketing

Does your marketing strategy suffer from subluxations? It might be time give your chiropractic blog topics an adjustment.

The first time I went to a chiropractor, I was pretty nervous. I didn’t know what to expect and thanks to the movies, I was reasonably sure there was a fine line between a cervical spinal adjustment and getting a broken neck. My saving grace was that I knew a few chiropractors. Unfortunately, they weren’t local to me, so I took a chance on the first person listed in the phone book.

Back to the story in a second, but if you’re looking for chiropractic blog topics for your business, there are at least three in that first paragraph. For instance, over 8,000 people every month search Google for “What does a chiropractor do?” So it seems that a lot of people aren’t too sure what to expect when they visit a chiropractor

When I left that first appointment, I had a much better idea of what a chiropractic visit was like. Since then, I’ve also learned that there are some vastly different approaches to chiropractic treatments. Now I’m happy to say that I have a chiropractor I adore, and although I don’t make appointments with her as often as I’d like, I look forward to them with a lot of excitement.

Looking back, I realize that those early appointments didn’t need to be such a mystery. Had that first chiropractor had a blog on the business website, I could have avoided a lot of the anxiety going into the appointments. And while I could benefit as a patient, a good website blog can also offer business benefits.

A blog is an easy way to communicate with patients who, in many cases, you haven’t met yet. You might not even know they exist. A blog is an introduction to your work, your values, and your treatments. Through a blog, you offer your patients something of value – pain relief ideas, healthy lifestyle tips, or answers to questions. The best blogs can attract new patients while they also work to keep your current and even past patients in your circle of care.

Things You Can Do To Maintain Spine and Joint Health

Why is Spine and Joint Health Important?

Your skeleton provides the support your body needs to function. joints allow us to move easily – sit, dance, run and walk – our spine keeps us upright. It might sound a little obvious but without them, we’d be totally lost.

Exercise Regularly

cannot really underestimate the power of regular exercise when it comes to full body and mind health. It’s also particularly good for the spine and joints.

Eat Properly

Second to exercise, having a healthy, balanced diet is the next thing that our Tunbridge Wells chiropractic team suggest. What we put in our bodies is essential. Swap those processed and sugary foods for healthier options and you’ll soon begin to feel the benefits.

Stay Hydrated

are bombarded with information online that we should be drinking 8 glasses of water every day. The truth is that most of us get the hydration we need through our daily drink and food (and yes tea and coffee are counted)

Sleep Better

Sleep can be a challenge and it has a big impact on our lives. A bad night’s sleep can leave us feeling tired and lacking energy and focus. It can also affect our mental health. The key to a good night’s sleep is a great mattress. It’s also good for keeping your spine in good alignment and protecting your joint health. Avoid drinking alcohol before you go to bed and get into some good night time habits.

Things Practicing Chiropractic Physicians Would Have Done Differently in School

While this may be applied to many areas of life, if you are considering a medical career or are currently a medical student, learning what professionals already working in the field would do differently may not just save you time, but also valuable financial resources.

My Advice for Future Chiropractic Students

Just over one year removed from graduation I feel like I am a competent practitioner. But being simply competent isn’t my goal —being the best that I can be is. Thinking back, I realize now there were a handful of things that I could have done in school which would have made me better off in the working world. On occasion, sometimes when I’m working on a particularly difficult patient, I reflect on my undergraduate and graduate school careers and think, “If I could redo it, I would.…” I’m sure this is common amongst professionals. We all have things in our lives we wish we could change, that’s just part of living. What if we didn’t make those mistakes in the first place? We can’t change it, but I realized that others can learn from our mistakes.

Take more advantage of the sports club

This one is my biggest regret. My school had and still has a really good sports club. The club is connected with great sports chiropractors in the area and they participate in a wide range of sporting events. While I went to some of these events, I did miss out on most of them. When I went to the events, I usually learned a lot and they were fun, but they were on weekends. To be a sports chiropractor or a chiropractor in general, you need to be able to think on your feet. This is not something that I had very much practice with. You aren’t really exposed to fast-paced situations until clinic, and even there it isn’t the same as working in the real world. Looking back, the sporting events that I went to were the closest thing to the real world. You had to be ready to act quickly when it was time.  If I could redo my schooling I would make sure that I hit as many of these events as possible. There is no doubt that I would be a better clinician today if I had gone to more of those events.

Invest in continuing education classes

“If only I had the money, I would take that class.” Are you familiar with that line? It is one that I heard fairly often in chiropractic school. I get it, you already have loads of debt and don’t know what you are going to do. The thing is, an extra few thousand in loans are not going to be the straw that breaks the camel’s back

Master differential diagnoses

This is spot on and great advice. When you are in the real world, some really scary stuff will walk into your office. It is not every day, but you need to know when you have to send a patient out.

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Onsite Bookkeeping And Offsite Bookkeeping Services Explained

Ways To Improve Your Bookkeeping

It’s not enough to want to change the world with your product, or even become the best in your field. You have to make sure that you can handle the simple transactions that are going to keep your business afloat day-by-day.

Choose the best software

You need the right tools for any job. When it comes to bookkeeping, it’s no different. Right now, we are living in a great time for apps and software. Being able to access some of the best services and applications ever designed from your smartphone or tablet means that businesses of any size can use the best accounting software out there.

Automate your record keeping

Artificial intelligence is a few years away yet, but with a few simple steps, you can already let your computers and the cloud take care of your business automation. Using tools such as Zapier, you can connect apps between each other, meaning that when your invoices are paid you can receive notifications, log data entry and even send reports directly to your accountants without even opening your laptop.

Get it right from the start

Setting up your bookkeeping software, processes and systems the first time around isn’t too difficult. If you have an expert advisor looking over it and helping you sort everything out, it won’t take away weeks of your life and give you grey hairs. But you know what will?

Be pro-active

You want to make sure that you aren’t in a scramble to get things ready and have your financial records in order when tax-time comes around. Being pro-active in your bookkeeping is the best way to ensure that you stay organised and you don’t miss any crucial dates, times or data.

Things You Should Never Ask Your Accountant

Whether you’re already in business or planning to become a small-business owner, one of your best resources may come from an unexpected source. It’s not your first hire, your personal assistant or even your lawyer. Rather, it’s the person who balances your budget, prepares your taxes and P&L statements, and helps you leverage technology to gain efficiency: your accountant.

Given the breadth of experience and wealth of knowledge gained from working with multiple businesses, a good accountant has the potential to be both a mentor and a partner―if you let them.

How to Choose the Right Accountant

Your accountant is potentially your most trusted business advisor. And when it comes to business, knowing whom to trust and getting the financial side of things right from the beginning is imperative.

Never ask your accountant to do anything that can be automated.

Some entrepreneurs still ask their accountants to manage their checkbook―to manually process payments, receipts and payroll transactions. This is an easily automated task!

Never ask your accountant to tell you how your business is performing.

Why? Because you should already know! Some business owners abdicate their role of running the business instead of clearly delegating specific tasks. The key difference here is responsibility

Don’t have a bookkeeper!

If I do my own books, I will be close to my cashflow.

Of course, as a business owner you want to feel close to what is going on in your business this is completely understandable more than that it’s imperative if you are to make timely decisions to ensure your business moves in the right direction. Does this mean you have to do the nitty gritty of the bookkeeping yourself? I don’t think so, with a competent bookkeeper dealing with the day to day stuff you, as the business owner can get on with running the business. You should be reading your Financial Statements and the Accounts Receivable report, not preparing them. Your time and skills are too valuable to be doing work that others can do and probably do more efficiently because it is their area of expertise. The bookkeeper is also a second pair of eyes and they will often pick up on things that would otherwise be overlooked, for example that Direct Debit that is going out of the bank each month for software you stopped using some time ago.

You feel uncomfortable sharing confidential information

This is only natural, it’s private right? Well not exactly, if you are a limited company you will be required to file accounts at Companies House, and these can be viewed by anyone. So, this is something the business owner needs to overcome; especially if the business is a limited company. As a business owner you simply cannot maximize the value in your business without a small team of trusted advisors. Trusted being the key word here, your team should start with a qualified bookkeeper and a good accountant both of whom abide by a Code of Professional Ethics ensuring complete confidentiality.

You think they’re expensive.

Actually, a qualified bookkeeper worth their salt will be able to offer you a package deal this how Bean Counters does things, a simple scale of fees based on the number of transactions so you don’t get any nasty surprises when you received the bill. In fact, in many cases as an experienced qualified bookkeeper I will be able to identify efficiency savings in other areas of your business, which, in some cases, could equate to more than the fees. A second pair of eyes looking out for your best interests, someone to bounce ideas off, books up to date, no pawing over paperwork at the weekend when you should be relaxing and recharging your batteries. Not as expensive as you think!

You don’t know how to find a good one.

This can be problem especially because anybody can call themselves a bookkeeper. This is so true, and it is very important that you do some background checks before taking on a bookkeeper. At can often not become apparent that there is something wrong until the accountant starts to do the year end accounts and by then there could be a big bill to put things right. So how do you find a good one? There are several professional bodies offering accreditation to bookkeepers, these professional bodies also ensure that their members follow strict guidelines, have the appropriate insurances and complete ongoing training to ensure they are offering up to date advice, especially important where tax matters are concerned as these rules are changing all the time.

Why DIY bookkeeping and accounting could hurt your business

have been noticing a common trap that some business owners are falling into. Some accounting and bookkeeping software advertise themselves as providing the complete package for business owners – allowing them to manage their books and handle their accounts on their own.

Why DIY Bookkeeping and Accounting Solutions may not be such a great idea.

While a DIY solution may sound like a good opportunity to relieve bookkeeping and accounting costs on the business, we are finding it to have the opposite effect on business owners come year end. Why?

One prime example is a lack of guidance throughout the year. When you are working with a bookkeeper or accountant, a simple mistake on your end can be quickly corrected to avoid serious damage. However, if you are flying solo, a small mistake at the beginning of the year that is repeated and not identified early can leave you in a mess.

So what do I do?

have a simple solution that will work for you and make the year-end work quicker and more cost-effective. We work with business owners like you on a quarterly and monthly basis doing a health check on the software you are using, guiding you in processing your books or providing the training that you need to run your books effectively and worry-free!

GST mistakes are the most common type of mistake we find business owners making. Click the link below to learn more about how to avoid the most common GST mistakes people make.

Recommended Apps for Accountants & Bookkeepers

It’s amazing to think that just six years ago this page would have been unnecessary. Back then, most of us were working in desktop accounting software. I would have had no apps to recommend!

Since then, an incredible thing has happened. An “ecosystem” of hundreds of cloud accounting apps has sprung up, and more and more keep being added every year.

I often get asked by other accountants and bookkeepers for recommendations, so I started keeping this list. I hope you find it useful!

Most of these apps I’ve used personally. A few of these apps I’ve tested enough to be able to recommend, but haven’t yet deployed “in the field”. Either way, I’m confident that they’ll serve you well as an accountant, bookkeeper, or small business owner.

I’ll keep adding to this list. There are lots of apps out there, so I could use your help! If you have a recommendation,

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How To Enhance A Long Distance Moving

Ways To Make Your Life Easier During a Long-Distance Move

If you’re preparing for a cross-country move, the excitement can be overshadowed by the moving logistics. Don’t get overwhelmed by the scale of your move. With a little organization, you can move from point A to point B efficiently

Consider Moving During the Off-Season

May through September is the most popular time for people to move. Off-season discounts, or at least pricing, may be available during downtimes in the fall, winter, and early spring. If possible, explore the possibility of moving when the roads are less crowded with fellow travelers.

Take Inventory of What You Need to Bring

Moving is a great excuse to de-clutter and simplify your life. While you want to take your favorite furniture, heirlooms, and kitchen essentials, you don’t need to keep dragging around old clothes and unwanted knickknacks.

Have Quality Moving Supplies Ready to Go

Invest in sturdy moving supplies, especially if you plan to pack yourself. This means durable cardboard boxes that are easily stackable and come in a variety of sizes.

Decide Whether or Not to Hire Packers

If your moving budget allows for it, you can save an incredible amount of time and stress by hiring professional packers. They have the expertise to move fragile or special items with care. From kitchen appliances to paintings, they can help you with the logistics of getting everything organized.

LONG DISTANCE MOVING

A move is considered long distance when you are moving further than 50 miles from your original home. This could be in the same state, or even on a different coastline. Thankfully there are professional companies out there that can help you and your family rest assured that your items will safely get where they need to go.

Moving a long distance away can certainly cause physical and emotional distress. You may be moving away from family and friends. Your kids may be changing schools and don’t know anyone. It can be a lot to weigh on someone’s mind. We have already established that any move is stressful, so having emotional stress on top of that is definitely not a good combination.

Perhaps you and your family are moving across the country for a new job. You will no doubt be stressed thinking about starting over at a new place and meeting new coworkers. Your kids will be stressed about meeting new friends at school. Getting boxes and furniture to your new home should be the last thing on your mind.

Professional Movers

Make sure you consider professional moving services when making a long distance move. These companies know the best tips to keeping the move as stress free as possible. They have done this before, and you probably haven’t. Sure, it may be more money, but it will certainly be worth it in the end.

DIY Long Distance Moves

While it may be more work, moving a long distance can be done by yourself. Of course, having some help from family and friends won’t be a bad idea. Doing the move yourself is definitely a more financially savvy method. You won’t have to worry about contacts and payments for a moving company to handle your move.

BEST MOVING TIPS

YOUR ESSENTIALS BOX SHOULD INCLUDE:

Any toiletries you may need

Snacks, coffee and tea

Garbage bags

Change of clothes

Dish soap and dish cloths

Pet food and dish

Scissors

Towels

Mugs, plates and cutlery

Important papers, such as receipts, banking information or tax slips

EXPERT PACKING SERVICES AT AFFORDABLE RATES.

For those looking to do the packing themselves, here are a few helpful tips:

Dispose, sell or donate unwanted articles prior to moving to streamline packing.

Loosely wrap glass, stoneware and all fragile items using two layers of plain paper or (ecofriendly) cloth (Clean socks work well!).

Wrapping items in newsprint may leave stains on certain items, so it’s best to use newsprint for things that can be wiped off easily, like cutlery or certain ceramics.

Pack all loose items in boxes, not bags.

Tape boxes across tops and edges and label them clearly according to room placement at your new location. This will make unpacking that much easier!

Label and place screws and small parts from disassembled furniture and equipment in small clear plastic bags. There’s nothing more annoying than trying to assemble furniture only to realize you’re missing half the screws, so make sure you think ahead.

Transport jewelry, money and valuables in your own vehicle. For your more precious (and fragile) possessions, recommends keeping them with you at all times during the move.

Organize and label electronics and cables before your move for easy set up at your new location. Cables have a tendency to become extremely tangled, so taking steps to minimize this will save you some grief when it comes time to unpack.

Pack food securely in sealed bags for extra protection. Moving can take a lot out of you, so we suggest packing some snacks in your Essentials box, to keep your blood sugar and mood up throughout.

Pack and clearly mark a box for ESSENTIALS that you will need immediately when you reach your new location

IMPORTANT REMINDERS

Notify all pertinent government agencies, banks, creditors, gas, water, telephone, cable and internet providers of your move. Doing this prior to your next billing date will prevent important documents from being lost in the mail, as well as minimizing the disruption in your services.

Defrost and clean fridge(s) prior to moving day, and minimize the amount of perishable food you pack, as it can attract a whole zoo of creatures you likely want to avoid in your new Yellowknife home.

Empty fuel from lawnmower, power tools, kerosene lamps and barbecue.

Plan the placement of furniture or equipment in your new location so our movers can accommodate you.

NEVER PACK FLAMMABLES SUCH AS:

Paint/ Thinner

Aerosol cans

Cleaning fluid

Propane tanks

Corrosive liquids

Long Distance Moving

the standard for offering outstanding customer service. The company ranks at or near the top of customer satisfaction surveys targeting customers of moving companies. With the largest moving company network

who work at local moving and storage facilities. The broad network means United can move virtually anyone anywhere in the country. Because of semi sized trucks in its inventory, United can move large corporations cross-country or interstate by using several trucks in its expansive fleet.

moving and logistics services that include spacious storage units for securing furniture and recreational equipment. Multiple independent online customers and moving industry analyst websites rank

The easy to access moving and logistics services department provide helpful information over the phone or through a real-time online chat feature. Customers always receive requests for feedback, which makes the entire team of moving professionals accountable for delivering on every relocation promise

specializes in cross country moves that require trucks the size of semis to relocate businesses and large families. enjoys the second lowest complaint rate, and the company represents the only mover that has a record of complaints about loss and damage under 50%

Long Distance Moving

Long-Distance Moving Companies Offer More Options Than Ever

If you’re moving to another province or country, you’ll probably want to consider hiring one of the many long-distance moving companies in your area. This is a good idea for several reasons, including convenience and safety – and you may be surprised to learn that sometimes it’s not all that expensive either. When many people think of long-distance moving companies, they only think about movers that show up on moving day, load your belongings onto a truck, and transport your stuff to your new home.

But nowadays, full-service long-distance moving companies offer more options than ever, including the following:

Packing/Unpacking. Whether you need everything packed or just the most fragile items, most long-distance moving companies offer the services you need. In addition, companies will likely provide unpacking services once you arrive at your new home for an extra fee. Hiring movers to unpack will mean your home will be set up and live-in ready in a day rather than weeks or months. Having your moving company take care of packing and unpacking for you often also means less opportunity for damage of precious items. The pros know how to wrap and move items that you might find impossible.

Assembly/Disassembly. Need something large and bulky – including waterbeds, swing sets, furniture, etc. – disassembled at your current home and put back together at the new place? Ask your moving company if it provides services that do just that. Eliminating the stress that comes with thinking about assembling and disassembling large items can really improve your overall moving experience.

Short-term and long-term storage. Are you arriving at your destination city before your new home or apartment will be move-in ready? Then ask your moving company if it provides short-term or portable storage for your belongings while you wait. Or maybe you’re downsizing and need a more permanent storage solution. If that’s the case, many of the best long-distance moving companies have storage services for rent or at least have connections with reputable storage facilities in the area.

Custom crating. Certain belongings just won’t fit in a traditional box, whether because it’s too large, fragile, or odd-shaped. That’s where custom crating comes in. Find a moving company that can offer crating services for things like framed artwork, sculptures, or electronic equipment. The company will pick up your item or items and make sure they are packaged to withstand the move.

Loading/Unloading: Probably the most vital part of getting a move right is how a company loads your things on the truck. Finding a moving company that is skilled in loading your belongings correctly and will do all of the loading and unloading for you is key. This might seem like a basic part of moving that everyone offers, but some moving and storage services make you load your own belongings, and you can’t ensure the safety of your things the way the professionals can.

What to Look for in a Long Distance Moving Company

Although plenty of long distance moving companies offer great add-on services, that doesn’t mean that they are all created equal. You’ll want to look into the specifics of any company you’re considering before you commit.

Cross-Border Moves. If you’re moving across. then you’ll need moving services specific to a cross-border and long-distance move. Look for a company with experience in these areas so your moving truck doesn’t wind up stuck in customs.

Local Moving. If you’re going to need short-term storage or you’re planning on living in a rental for a few months before purchasing a home in your new location, then you will want to find a company that can handle local moves too. Sometimes companies will even offer a free move for you locally within a few months of your cross-country move.

Customer Service. You have enough on your plate without having to worry about the snippy person helping you move. Great customer service builds confidence and keeps your experience pleasant even during the stressful times. Look for a company that takes customer service seriously and won’t stand for the mistreatment of its customers.

Well Rated. You don’t want to trust a company that has a poor reputation with all of your most precious belongings. Look into the company’s online ratings with a quick Google search, browse through their social media, and check their score with the Better Business Bureau to make sure you’ve got a reputable and reliable company behind you during your move. You can also look for movers who are part of reputable organizations like the Canadian Association of Movers.

Moving Tips. Moving long distances can be daunting. Work with a company that is proud to help you make the most of your move. Beyond just storage options, you want to deal with long distance movers who understand what you’re going through and can help you along the way. The best companies offer tips to help you get the most from your move even if they end up making less money on extras because of it.

Transparency. You want a company that tells it to you straight. You want to know your prices up front and be able to have honest conversations about timelines, storage options, moving dates, shipment tracking, and more. A company that isn’t willing to get transparent with you isn’t a company worth working with.

Inventory. Reputable movers keep an inventory of your things to ensure that nothing is lost in transit. You want to make sure that your company knows what you’ve got in your moving boxes and can ensure that those boxes make it to you safely in your new home. Look for a company that offers shipment tracking as well to give you peace of mind as your belongings make the trek across the state or country.

COVID-19. Nowadays companies need to have a plan to combat the spread of COVID-19. Every company should have a plan to clean and sanitize their trucks and keep you and their employees safe as you share spaces in your new location. Ask to see the plans and procedures before you commit to using a company so you know you’ll feel comfortable when moving day comes around.

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Hiring A Mold Remediation Company Versus DIY Anti-Mold Action

HOW TO PREVENT & GET RID OF MOLD IN GARAGE

Mold in Garage: Treating and Preventing

Mold thrives in damp, dark environments and can grow anywhere, both outside and indoors. Mold finds its way in through open doors, windows and HVAC systems. Mold spores even stick to and enter the home on shoes, clothing, family pets, and kids’ backpacks. That’s why your garage is particularly vulnerable to mold, especially when it’s attached to the home and used as a main entrance. Mold in the garage is not uncommon. Fortunately, it can be removed, and you have the power to prevent it from developing in the future.

Why Does Mold Grow in the Garage?

Unlike the interior of your home, garages are fully exposed to the elements every time the garage door is opened and, sometimes, even when it’s closed. The garage door rarely has a tight seal between its edge and the floor, which makes it especially easy for water to get in. You may find pools of water inside your garage after a heavy rain or snow. Similarly, wet or snow-covered shoes and tires from bikes or cars left in the garage can add additional moisture. Do you wash your car in the garage? The average garage can see a lot of water. Think about the items you keep in your garage. Mold loves to grow on cardboard and other paper products as well as on wood, drywall, fabric, walls, ceiling tiles and even concrete, especially when painted. A garage with poor drainage, poor ventilation and little natural light is a haven for mold growth.

How to Get Rid of Mold in Garage Spaces

Mold needs to be scrubbed thoroughly, and spores need to be contained as you go. To keep mold spores from spreading while you clean, first spray the affected area with warm water. Next, spray the mold with bleach or a commercial cleaner designed to neutralize and lift mold spores. Distilled white vinegar or hydrogen peroxide are both options, but they should never be mixed together. Once you’ve applied the cleaner and briefly let it sit, scrub the area with a stiff-bristle brush. Rinse the area with water and repeat the process if any mold remains.

If tackling mold clean up on your own, it’s important to take certain safety precautions. When working with any type of chemical cleaning product, especially bleach, only work in a well-ventilated space and wear protective gear including gloves, glasses and a mask.

Who Can Help With Garage Mold Removal

If you see mold growing in your garage, consider calling a licensed mold tester to analyze the scope of the problem. The tester will fully inspect your mold situation and alert you to any mold in areas you can’t see easily, like the crawl space or other areas of the home. If mold is found beyond your garage, we recommend calling a professional team of mold remediation experts. Even if the mold is contained to your garage, a large amount may be better handled by professionals who can carefully and completely remove all traces of mold.

Mould – What it is and what to do about it

Mold has received considerable media attention recently, as though this were a new problem. While it’s true that mold in homes can be a problem, this is nothing new, and probably not news. However, since there is an increased level of awareness and concern, let’s look at the issue from a common sense perspective.

What is it?

Mold is a common term for a large family of fungi that have a cottony or woolly appearance. There are nearly a million species of mold. Mold is a naturally occurring organism that has been around far longer than us. Mold grows in buildings where there is moisture, air, a food source, and whenever the temperature is between 40 and 140 degrees F.

Mold plays a key role

We can’t eliminate mold, but this is a good thing because we need mold to break down animal and vegetable matter. Mold plays a key role in the food chain. When we say things are rotting or decaying, we are referring to mold at work. If there were no mold, there would be no rot – and we’d all be buried under all the leaves and trees that ever fell down but never decayed.

Mold spores are everywhere

People sometimes tell us that they don’t have mold in their home. We ask what happens if they leave bread in a drawer for a month or don’t take out the garbage for two weeks. This helps them understand that no matter how clean they keep their home, mold spores are always there ready to grow on any favorable host. There are always mold spores in the air and there is always some mold in buildings, so the objective of a “mold-free home” is not realistic.

How dangerous is mold?

Since it is normal for mold to be present in air and in buildings, its mere existence is not necessarily a reason for alarm. But if mold is present in indoor air at levels higher than would be found in outdoor air, or if a significant mold colony is growing on building surfaces, it could be a cause for concern.

Facts about Mold

You have certainly seen ugly mold patches in the corners of the basement. You have probably felt musty odor in the bathroom and found mold on the shower curtains. You may have heard that mold is harmful and can cause various health problems. You surely know that it thrives in humid environments and spreads very quickly and easily. But do you know that mold needs less than 48 hours to begin growing? Or that dead mold spores are just as harmful as live ones? Or that modern-day building practices actually promote mold growth?

Mold Requires Moisture and Organic Food to Grow

Mold is a kind of fungi that reproduces by making tiny spores which can survive extremely harsh weather conditions and spread easily over large areas. Mold spores exist everywhere in the outdoor environment and can get indoors thorough open doors, windows, air ducts, vents, etc. or even attached to clothes, shoes, and bags. Once the mold spores get into your home, they will wait for the right conditions to start developing.

There are over 10,000 species of mold but only 5 of them are commonly found indoors

Most household molds belong to one of the following five types:

Alternaria mold is usually found in buildings that have suffered some kind of water damage. It can appear black, grey, or dark brown and has a wooly or down-like texture.

Aspergillus is the most common type of household mold, especially in warmer climates. It can be grey, brown, yellow, green, white, or black in color. Aspergillus mold causes not only allergic reactions, but also respiratory infections and inflammation of the lungs in people with weak immune systems;

Cladosporium can grow in lower temperatures than other kinds of mold. It has a characteristic black or olive-green color and may trigger hay fever and asthma symptoms;

Penicillium is usually found on carpeting, wallpaper, and insulation. It looks blue or green and produces strong musty odor;

Stachybotrys chartarum, also known as “black mold”, produces toxic compounds called mycotoxins that can cause severe health problems, such as respiratory problems, asthma attacks, chronic sinus infections, fatigue, and depression. The toxic black mold has a characteristic musty odor and appears only on surfaces that have been in prolonged contact with water.

Mold develops very quickly but often remains hidden for a long time

When all the right conditions are present – moisture, ample food, and a temperature of 41 degrees to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, mold will begin growing within 24 to 48 hours. However, it can often remain hidden until the spores have already affected large areas of your property and caused considerable structural damage. This is so because mold usually starts growing in very inconspicuous areas of the house – inside walls, behind leaky appliances, within insulation, throughout the HVAC system, in crawl spaces, and in other damp, dark places (mold doesn’t need light to grow, which is why it is often found in poorly lit areas of the home).

Mold growth is a sign of water damage

Unless you have experienced a recent flood or sewer backup, you may have no reason to suspect water damage to your home. The presence of mold, however, should alert you of a hidden problem (as already mentioned, mold spores cannot develop unless there is some source of excessive moisture). Therefore, if you detect a musty smell in the basement or attic, or see mold patches on the ceilings or walls of your home, you need to carefully inspect your property and find the source of the moisture – it may be a leaky pipe, or a leaky roof, or a malfunctioning appliance, or even poor insulation that results in too much condensation. In the best case scenario mold may be caused by inadequate air exchange and high indoor humidity levels resulting from water evaporating from home plants or drying clothes, or steam from the kitchen or bathroom.

Mold Remediation

Mold Detection and Removal Services

One of the worst contaminants known is the silent but dangerous growth of mold. Mold can grow indoors on wet or damp surfaces, such as wallpaper, ceiling tiles, carpets, insulation material, wood and drywall. It can start to grow within 48 hours and if left unchecked, can have serious impacts on both your quality of life and your home’s physical structure. If you see signs of mold or suspect that it has infected your home, we’re here to help remediate the problem and prevent long-term damage.

Molds require an organic food source. One common source is cellulose, which is found in building materials such as drywall.

Molds require oxygen, so they do not grow under water.

Molds require a constant supply of water. To prevent mold, buildings must be kept dry.

Molds are spread by tiny particles called “spores.” A spore can be compared to a seed.

Don’t let your health and home be ruined by mold

Mold is present everywhere in nature, but when it finds its way into your home, it can be a major problem. use infrared technology as part of the mold detection process and special chemicals to help remediate the mold and protect your home

Where does mold come from?

Molds thrive in moist environments created by a flood, slow leak, broken pipe or just high humidity. Without water mold, cannot grow. Mold also needs a food source, oxygen and a temperature between 40 degrees and 100 degrees F.

How does mold spread?

For molds to grow and reproduce, they only need an organic food source, such as cellulose, which is found in building materials such as wood and drywall.

Understanding the dangers of mold

From The Ordinary

Fungi and mold naturally occur in our environment, and they produce some very useful results. For example, yeast is a type of fungi used in preparing breads and other food products. Blue cheese’s unique flavor is attributed to mold, and life-saving penicillin is a product of mold.

To The Unhealthy

Even though some forms of mold can add value to our lives, other forms can be harmful. Excessive amounts of mold, different types of mold and extended exposure to molds may present healthy concerns for one people.

Any water intrusion into your office or your home can result in mold growth. This intrusion of water can result from storm damage, plumbing or equipment filters, long-standing leaks, and poor humidity control. When these issues are not addressed, the resulting damage can present increased risk of harmful mold growth.

Some amount of mold spores are normally present in most environments, but if the humidity and moisture levels in water-damaged environment are not promptly returned to normal, mold spores may grow and multiple to a harmful level.

Organic materials found inside a building, such as wood, paper, drywall and insulation, provide food sources for mold to flourish. Excessive mold growth can lead to indoor environmental conditions that may pose a health threat

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What You Need To Know About Post Construction Cleaning

Construction Cleanup

Construction work is very demanding and can also be dangerous. Maintaining a clean work site not only makes the area safer, it also helps you to complete the project on time. Hiring cleaners experienced in construction cleanup ensures your crew arrives to a safe, clean and productive job site every morning

Throughout your construction project, consider how you maintain a worksite reflects on your company’s brand image. A messy, haphazard looking worksite inadvertently conveys a lot about your company’s attention to detail and your regard for neighbouring properties. While ensuring a safe and productive work environment, a clean worksite will benefit your brand image by conveying your company’s high standards of workmanship.

After the project is complete, the work isn’t. There’s often nails, screws and boards lying around the site. That’s in addition to a lot of other things that didn’t make it to the trash bin. The inside floors will need to be swept and vacuumed. The new windows, and the interior trim, will need to be cleaned from all the dust that has settled. You don’t want the final part of the project to cause you to exceed the initial time constraints that you were given and you want the site to look as good as possible

Why Professional Construction Cleanup Matters

There is much more to construction project aftermath than bits of lumber and nails scattered about. Dust and debris is everywhere, windows are filthy, and there may even be hazardous materials that need to be properly disposed of. Professional construction cleanup should be a daily affair as well as a singular post-construction event.

Debris

Trash is an unsightly eyesore. Most construction crews do not see themselves as trash collectors. Every day garbage continues to accumulate in places other than the trash bin. Some of this debris could even be leftover hazardous waste that needs professional disposal. Daily clean-up service throughout the term of a project can help work areas appear as neat and tidy as possible.

POST CONSTRUCTION

post construction and renovation cleaning are unique because focus on detail. After a big construction project, the whole site will be completed covered with fine dust so it’s job to make sure its dust-free.

continuous pursuit for perfection has resulted in consistent growth each year. focus is to listen to our clients, understand their needs and provide the exceptional level of residential and commercial cleaning services.

PROFESSIONAL POST CONSTRUCTION CLEANING

Imagine if you could work with a cleaning company that treated your construction project like their own, by taking complete ownership of the cleaning responsibilities and delivering exactly what you needed for hand over? What would it be like to never experience poor quality cleaning again?

When it comes to construction cleaning – we simply ‘Get It’. provide and manage a total cleaning solution for your project so that you can get on with what you do best and what is more important to you onsite.

What is included in the House Cleaning services?

ALL ROOMS:

Remove trash.

Remove labels and stickers.

Remove painter’s tape and masking tape as needed.

Clean and polish glass.

Vacuum heating, ventilation and air conditioning vents (outside only).

Wipe down baseboards, chair rails, crown molding and door trim.

Wipe down window trim and clean sills.

Wipe off door hardware.

Clean light fixtures and install bulbs (fixtures must be exposed).

Vacuum carpeting.

Dry mop wood floors.

Wet mop tile and concrete floors.

How to Start a Construction Site Cleanup Business

Construction site cleanup services perform a final cleaning and removal of left over construction materials for commercial and residential properties. Starting a cleanup business requires a variety of licenses and permits, as well as a budget for buying or leasing the equipment you’ll need. This work often involves long hours, heavy lifting and attention to detail, but there’s a constant demand for these services. Construction companies, home remodeling companies and property management companies use construction site cleanup services to ready spaces for sale or lease.

Meeting Regulatory Requirements

Apply for a business license to operate a construction site cleanup business in your area. Contact the county clerk’s office or small business administration office to inquire about business licensing forms and fees. Register your cleanup business with your state’s secretary of state’s office if forming a corporation, limited liability company or partnership

Hiring Good Staff

Hire employees with construction or industrial clean up experience. Depending on state regulations, employees may need to be bonded to work legally on construction sites. Surety bonds help cover the costs of legal fees in the event of a lawsuit or settlement. Require potential employees to purchase surety bonds from licensed insurance providers, and ask for a copy of surety bond certificates for your records.

Purchase or Lease Equipment

Purchase any necessary construction cleanup equipment and supplies. Equipment may include small bulldozers for removing heavy construction debris, industrial garbage bins, window cleaning supplies, wood, metal or stone cleaning supplies, brooms, dust pans, window cleaner, metal polishing chemicals and safety equipment, such as dust masks, first aid kits, uniforms and hard hats.

Marketing Your Business

Contact local construction companies, janitorial services, property management companies and renovation companies to market your services. Create a brochure that outlines specific and general cleaning services, before and after photos, contact information and hours of operation. If you have the budget for it, create a website that features additional photos, customer testimonials and information about cleaning methods to increase business. If that has to wait until you’re profitable, a company Facebook page can give you the same kind of visibility.

POST CONSTRUCTION CLEANING SERVICES

Post Construction Cleaning Services! When you need to clean up the mess of a new renovation or post construction project. have been cleaning for several builders in the Springs and Monument area.

continuous pursuit for perfection has resulted in consistent growth each and every year since have been in business. focus is to listen to our clients, understand their needs and provide the exceptional level of post construction cleaning services

mission is to:

Deliver high quality and consistent services.

Become the cleaning company you can trust.

Provide stable jobs with resonable wages.

Concentrate our resources on maintaining standards.

Make you an extremely satisfied customer.

Tips For Post-Construction Cleaning

After finishing construction or renovations on any property – be it a home or an office – you may be tempted to move the furniture in straight away. But before you kick your feet up and relax, you need to do some post-construction cleaning. You don’t want your new home or office appearing old and tired because of leftover dust.

Tidy up large debris

Start by gathering all tools and leftover materials in one spot. Decide what you’re going to keep and what you want to throw away. If you’re getting rid of items, make sure you check the details on the back of paint cans and chemical containers. These items may require special care and need to be taken to a hazardous waste disposal centre.

Clean up small debris

Now that the big stuff is gone, it’s time to pay attention to the smaller pieces of rubbish, spills or marks that have been left behind. Clean up any leftover paint spillages on tiles, wood or carpet. Use a magnetic sweeper to remove any nails, bolts or metal shavings. Carefully remove broken glass using protective gloves

Tackle the dust

The most common mess left behind after construction is dust. It can also be the most detrimental to your health, causing irritation to the eyes and coughing. Given this, it’s important to wear safety gear when dealing with dust. Consider putting on a dust mask and goggles to avoid getting any particles in your eyes.

Clean lighting fixtures and fans

Grab a cloth and wipe down ceiling fan blades and lighting fixtures. You may need to remove lighting fixtures to properly clean them. If you have glass fixtures, use a little bit of glass cleaner to get them shining.

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Do You Need A Divorce Lawyer

Family Lawyer’s Tips for a Good Divorce

Even if the divorce was an amicable one, you should always at least consult with a divorce lawyer before filing your paperwork.

The term, “a good divorce” may seem oxymoronic. However, if you and your spouse have made the difficult decision to end your relationship, you can either spend a lot of time arguing and getting nowhere or split as quickly, amicably, and painlessly as possible.

Don’t Surprise Your Spouse

There are some situations such as those involving domestic abuse in which you may have to file for divorce without letting your spouse know. If it is at all possible, you should make your spouse aware of your intention to divorce them. It is not usually a good idea to surprise them by serving them with papers.

Do Not Rush Into a Settlement

When a person wants to end a marriage, it is natural for them to want to get it over with very quickly. It may be tempting to let your spouse keep whatever they want just to get the divorce over with. However, in the long run, you will want to be able to retain the property and money to which you are entitled. Your spouse should also have to retain their fair share of the bills

Do Not Date Until the Divorce is Final

There is a minimum six month waiting period from the time you file for divorce to the time the marriage is actually dissolved. It is customary for people to live apart during this time.

Finding a Good Attorney

Even if the divorce was an amicable one, you should always at least consult with a divorce lawyer before filing your paperwork. You and your spouse can hire an attorney together to help you with the paperwork and the division of property. They can also help you make a custody arrangement that is acceptable to the courts.

ways to make your divorce as painless as possible, according to a top divorce attorney

a managing partner at a top divorce law firm, about how to make divorce proceedings as painless as possible. Here are her four pieces of advice.

Explore alternatives to litigation

Instead of jumping into litigation right away, Newman recommends alternative options for settling a divorce out of court. In litigation, “you draft motion papers and you basically have to show why your other spouse is a terrible person,” she said. “That doesn’t bode well for any future parenting relationship, not to mention litigation is slow and very expensive.”

Mediation, one alternative, involves working with a neutral mediator. Each spouse can have an attorney of their own, but they’re less involved in the process. Mediators can also be used to settle specific issues within divorce proceedings, such as child custody.

“I tell clients if they come to me and have already settled custody, you just saved yourself hundreds of thousands of dollars in legal fees and therapy bills,”

Another option is collaborative law, where the couple agrees not to go to court and works with collaboratively trained attorneys. It’s also more interdisciplinary, involving divorce coaches and child specialists if applicable. The catch is that if either party says they don’t want to continue the process anymore, they can’t use those same attorneys in litigation.

Your Divorce Lawyer Is Not Your Therapist

Divorce affects every aspect of a person’s life. For many divorcing couples, the same income that once supported one household may now have to stretch to support two. For couples who are also parents, there may be the additional worry about the effect a divorce will have on their children. The responsibilities of parenting also change as parents go from sharing the work and joys of parenting with a spouse, to alternating between being a single parent and being newly-single when the children are with the other parent.

Strategize. A good lawyer should help you identify the outcome you hope to achieve in the divorce but must also advise you as to whether that outcome is realistic under the facts of your case and the law in your jurisdiction. Your lawyer should gather all the necessary information to understand your case, spot any potential legal issues, and identify the strengths and weaknesses.

Litigate. If you don’t achieve a settlement in advance of litigation, your lawyer will need to timely file all the necessary pleadings in court. Your lawyer may need to file discovery requests or take depositions so that the facts necessary to prove your case are made a part of the record in the event you have to go to trial. If you have minor children, additional pleadings related to child support and custody and visitation are required, and will require the approval of your presiding judge, even if you and your spouse have agreed to the terms. And if you go to trial, your lawyer should have the trial practice skills necessary to maximize your chances of a successful verdict, including preserving the record for appeal, should you need it.

What your lawyer should not do for you

If you think the above list of skills your lawyer needs to possess is a long one, you’re not wrong. But there is also a long list of things your lawyer can’t, or shouldn’t, do for you. There are services you may need as you navigate the divorce that your lawyer is simply not well-suited to offer you. Although some lawyers are drawn to the profession because of a desire to help people through legal and personal problems, your lawyer is not your therapist.

Be your friend.Your lawyer needs the detachment of a professional relationship, not a personal one, to represent you effectively.The potential legal issues for which your divorce lawyer is responsible are substantial. Your lawyer’s ability to manage those issues effectively requires a detached, objective, professional relationship. While the subject matter of divorce litigation necessarily involves an understanding of your personal relationships, the relationship you have with your attorney should not itself be too personal.

A DIVORCE ATTORNEY

A good divorce lawyer will help you end the bad marriage with a good divorce – one that will help you and your family begin a new and better day.

People are usually sad, afraid, and angry when this journey begins. That’s why watching our clients become independent, strong, and happy people at the end of the divorce is among the most rewarding moments of our job. A divorce may be one of the most emotionally and financially difficult experiences in your life. Nevertheless, judges are flooded with divorce cases. When you get to court, a Judge is simply interested in getting four questions answered quickly, completely, and efficiently.

Is there going to be a divorce?

The answer is “Yes.” But there are two kinds of divorces: irreconcilable differences (or “agreed”) divorces and fault-based divorces.

To have an agreed divorce, you and your spouse must agree on everything from who gets the house, to who gets the retirement account, to who gets the kids, to who gets the dishes. Chances are, if you had the ability to agree on that level of detail, at the beginning of a process you barely understand, you would not be getting a divorce in the first place.

This is simply a divorce where you acknowledge that not all issues are resolved, and you ask the Court to resolve anything you and your spouse are not able to work out during the process.

DIVORCE LAWYER

If you’re facing a separation and divorce, you’re probably scared, confused or maybe overwhelmed. There’s so many things to consider, besides the fact that life is now upside down. It can be extremely scary if you own a business, especially if you’re property rich but cash poor. A divorce can make the difference in whether you keep the doors open or not

Community property is often hard to divide.

The more you own, the more susceptible you are to losing it all in a divorce. That doesn’t mean a spouse will get everything, but if you don’t have a lot of liquidity, settlement can be almost impossible. During the time of a divorce, particularly for a growing business, it’s not easy to get a loan for a buyout even if you’re in a comfortable position.

There are many different types of evaluations.

When you’re going through a divorce, there are a variety of ways to evaluate assets. Your bank has one method that’s often low. On the other hand, the representatives for your spouse will provide a very, very optimistic evaluation. You need someone that knows how to secure an evaluation that’s fair to you and a good divorce attorney can do that. The appraised value of the business dictates the amount you’ll have to pay to keep it.

Liquid assets may not be as easy either.

Everything counts in a divorce. While you might consider that liquid assets will be easy to divide, consider things like your 401-k or your pension. That takes some maneuvering through the tax laws and knowledge of both divorce law and pension law. A good divorce lawyer will help with the details. There’s a right way to handle pension plans and retirement funds to avoid penalties from the government. Legal help is imperative

Don’t come out broke just to keep the peace. You don’t have to fight when you have a good attorney representing you. The attorney handles the settlement to make your life more peaceful.

Matters can be even more complex if you have children. The potential to lose custody is always there, particularly if you’ve been busy building a business.

Bitter estranged spouses often look for areas that hurt you most to create more emotional upheaval. Whether it’s your business, home or child, a divorce attorney can help prevent some of the damage.

Some times, it’s the small things that are important. Don’t let a spouse prevent you from securing your personal assets and mementos that you cherish. If you’ve been locked out of your home, a divorce attorney will help you retrieve those items.

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New Electric Circuits Breaker Box Installation And Upgrade

Gfci Receptacle Vs Gfci Circuit Breaker: What’s The Difference?

What Is a GFCI Receptacle?

You can tell if a receptacle is a GFCI one or not by the way it looks. The GFCI is integrated into an electrical outlet and it typically has a red (or possibly white) reset button on the outlet’s faceplate. The outlet monitors how much energy is going into it when in use. If the receptacle senses any sort of an electrical overload or imbalance, it is designed to trip the circuit in a fraction of a second.

GFCI receptacles are generally used instead of a standard outlet receptacle to offer protection to a single outlet location. However, GFCI receptacles can be wired in two different ways to offer two different levels of protection. Single-location protection offers GFCI protection only at one receptacle. Multiple-location wiring protects the first GFCI receptacle and every receptacle downstream of it (including standard receptacles) in the same circuit. However, it does not protect the portion of the circuit that lies between itself and the main service panel. For example, if the GFCI receptacle wired for multiple-location protection is the fourth receptacle in a circuit that includes seven outlets, then the first three outlets will not be protected.

Resetting a receptacle is typically more convenient than going all the way to the service panel to reset a breaker, but remember that if you wire a circuit for multiple-location protection from a single GFCI receptacle, that receptacle controls everything downstream. If there is any wiring issue downstream, you will have to backtrack to find the GFCI receptacle to reset it.

What Is a GFCI Circuit Breaker?

GFCI circuit breakers protect the entire circuit. GFCI circuit breakers are simple: By installing one in the service panel (breaker box), it adds GFCI protection to an entire circuit, including the wiring and all devices and appliances connected to the circuit. In cases where AFCI protection is also called for (increasingly common), there are dual function GFCI/AFCI circuit breakers that can be used.

GFCI circuit breakers make more practical sense in situations where all outlets on a circuit require protection. For example, let’s say you’re adding a receptacle circuit for a garage workshop or a large outdoor patio space. Because all of these receptacles require GFCI protection, it is probably more efficient to wire the circuit with a GFCI breaker so that everything on the circuit is protected.

How do you decide whether a GFCI breaker or receptacle is right for you?

Both GFCI breakers and receptacles can increase the safety in your home and reduce the risk of electrical shocks, but there are pros and cons to each, and determining which option is right for you will depend on the individual circumstances.

When to Install a GFCI Breaker:

  • When the majority or all of the outlets on the circuit require GFCI protection
  • When outlets that require GFCI protection don’t have the space for the bigger GFCI receptacles
  • For specialty uses, like for heated swimming pools
  • For those who prefer to protect the entire circuit rather than individual outlets

When to Install a GFCI Receptacle:

  • When a single circuit powers some outlets that require GFCI protection and some that don’t
  • When you need GFCI outlets but don’t want the added expense of installing a GFCI breaker
  • When the individual receptacle that needs GFCI protection is located far away from the breaker box

3 Wiring Problems Causing Your Circuit Breaker to Trip

Before we list the wiring problems that may be behind this problem, quickly check to make sure you haven’t forgotten about a device that’s plugged in and on.

Sometimes, people forget about gadgets in their garage or plugged in outside.

Provided that’s not happening, here are three wiring problems to consider.

1. Current Leakage

One possibility is that one or more of the input wires is suffering from current leakage.

In that case, the frustrating problem you’re experiencing is actually occurring for your own good. It’s a safety precaution.

2. Damaged Wires

The damage could be anywhere, not just with the input wires. Insects or other pests may have gotten to them and done serious damage just by chewing. Even with extremely low loads, this type of problem can be enough to cause your breaker to trip.

3. A Loose Wire in an Outlet

This wiring problem can be maddening. In short, one of your outlets has a loose wire that is causing your breaker to trip and will continue to do so until it’s replaced. This is a somewhat common problem if you have an outlet with a GFCI (Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter).

How Many Outlets Can Be Placed on a 20 Amp Household Circuit?

The circuit breakers in the electrical panel in your house are safety devices. Each one is designed to disconnect power when the current passing through the circuit exceeds its rating. This prevents overheated wires, electrical power surges and fires. Electrical outlets don’t draw power until you plug something in, so a 20-amp circuit should theoretically be able to handle as many outlets as you want without overloading the breaker. There are practical limits, though.

Allowable Breaker Load

The National Electrical Code doesn’t limit the number of receptacles you can place on a 20-amp circuit, but you’ll overload the breaker if you run appliances that draw more current than the breaker can handle. The NEC does specify that a circuit breaker shouldn’t handle more than 80 percent of the load for which it is rated unless the breaker is labeled otherwise. By this standard, the total current draw on a 20-amp circuit shouldn’t exceed 16 amps. This allows the breaker to handle the temporary surge that happens when an appliance such as a power saw or air conditioner starts up.

Avoiding Overloads

When deciding how many receptacles to add to a 20-amp circuit, consider what you are likely to plug into each one. For safety, the total draw on the circuit shouldn’t exceed 16 amps at any one time, which translates to a maximum power draw of 1,920 watts on a conventional 120-volt circuit, even though the breaker won’t trip until the power draw exceeds 2,400 watts. You should limit the number of receptacles on a circuit that will handle a power-hungry appliance. For example, most electric heaters draw 1,500 watts, so a circuit that powers one should have few other receptacles.

Spreading the Load

To better distribute the power consumption among all the breakers in the panel, combine lights and electrical outlets on a single circuit, because lights typically draw less power than appliances. Your kitchen must have at least two outlets, each on separate circuits, so that if one breaker trips, you still have power. Adding lights to each circuit balances the load and avoids the necessity for separate lighting circuits. Certain kitchen appliances, however, such as the dishwasher, must be on a dedicated circuit, which means that you can’t include anything else on the circuit — not even lights.

General Guidelines

In most circuits, only one outlet is likely to be in use at any one time, so it’s a good strategy to spread as many as possible around the house on a single circuit to guarantee you have power where you need it. One rule of thumb is to assign a maximum draw of 1.5 amps to each receptacle, which allows for 10 receptacles on a 20-amp circuit. You must use 12-gauge wire to connect 20-amp circuits; when you’re installing receptacles in the bathroom, kitchen, laundry room or outdoors, they must generally be ground fault interrupting receptacles.