Author: Nelda Corbin

Proper Deck Painting Preparation

House Painting Services No Comments
Deck Painting

Paint gives a fresh, colorful look to an old deck and helps protect the wood. Paint can also unify the color of a house’s exterior with the deck, providing added curb appeal.Deck Painting

Before a deck can be painted, all loose paint must be scraped and rough patches sanded smooth. A power sander hastens the sanding process. Contact Gold Lion Painting Inc for professional help.

Painting your deck can give it a fresh new look, and help to protect the surface from the elements. However, this task is not one that should be taken lightly. Proper deck painting prep is essential to ensure that your new coat of paint or stain lasts and looks great for a long time. This includes cleaning and sanding the surface, repairing any rotten boards or cracks, filling in nail holes, and making sure that any areas of the deck that are exposed to sunlight receive extra attention.

Depending on the size and style of your deck, you may choose to use either paint or stain to coat it. Both offer different aesthetic and protective benefits, with paint providing a more streamlined look that is often better suited for contemporary homes, while stains can highlight the wood’s natural features.

The first step in any deck painting job is to thoroughly clean the surface, using a power washer or garden hose with a high-pressure nozzle. You should also sand rough patches and smooth the wood to ensure that the primer or paint adheres properly. It’s a good idea to do this before you start working on the actual painting, as it will save you time and effort in the long run.

Once the surface is completely dry, you can begin the actual painting process. Choose a water-based primer that is designed for outdoor surfaces, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application. Once the primer is dry, you can begin applying the deck paint. Choose a color that compliments your home, and remember to apply a second coat as needed if the product’s instructions recommend it.

Choosing the right tools for the job is also crucial. A variety of brushes are available, allowing you to apply the paint with precision and control for details and corners, while rollers provide quick coverage for large areas. A sprayer can also be useful, giving you a smooth and even finish. Whatever tools you select, be sure to document your progress and work methodically to ensure that the entire deck is evenly coated.

Preparing the Surface

Whether you’re a do-it-yourselfer or enlist a professional, it’s important to make sure your deck is clean and ready for paint before you start. Start by removing all furniture, potted plants and other items from the area and using a broom or pressure washer to sweep away dirt, debris and loose paint. If needed, use a wire brush to scrub particularly stubborn areas of the deck. After cleaning, allow the surface to dry completely.

During this time, you can also take advantage of the opportunity to replace any damaged boards and make any necessary repairs. Once the surface is clean and dry, it’s important to choose a durable, quality paint. This will help the paint last longer and resist chipping, cracking and peeling, and will protect your deck from harsh weather conditions like rain or extreme heat.

You’ll want to carefully follow the product recommendations on your selected paint for proper application techniques. Typically, you will apply a coat of primer to the deck before painting. This helps the new coats of paint adhere well to the wood and creates an even surface for the final look. Some brands of paint require you to wait a certain amount of time between applying the primer and the final coat of paint, so be sure to read the instructions on your selected product carefully.

Once you’re ready to begin painting, be sure to cover nearby surfaces with painters tape and drop cloths. This will prevent accidental painting of windows, doors, metal railings and other objects, as well as yard ornaments, flowers or shrubs. You may also want to use an extension pole to reach high or hard-to-reach areas of the deck that are difficult to access without a ladder.

Compared to stain, paint can be more difficult to apply and requires more prep work to ensure an even surface. However, it’s available in a wide range of colors and can help the natural beauty of the wood shine through. If you are able to keep up with regular touch-ups and recoating, a painted deck can be as beautiful as one that is stained.

Applying the Primer

Whether the deck is new or old, it’s usually a good idea to apply a coat of primer before applying paint. This helps the new paint to adhere to the wood and reduces the chances of peeling. It’s important to choose the right type of primer, however. A stain blocking primer is ideal for painting over a stained deck because it prevents tannin stains and resin bleeds from showing through the final paint job.

After the primer has dried, it’s time to start painting. Depending on the condition of your deck, you may need to use more than one coat of paint to achieve an even finish. It’s also important to avoid putting on too much paint or you risk having to sand it off later.

To help you get a smooth and even finish, it’s a good idea to use a roller or paint sprayer. These tools are easy to use and allow you to cover large areas quickly. If you’re not comfortable using a sprayer, a brush can be used for detailed work or difficult to reach spots.

If your deck has slatted areas or details such as railings and spindles, it’s a good idea to brush them first with an angled brush. This will make it easier to get into the corners and nooks of your deck. You can then move on to the larger areas with your roller or sprayer.

Once the paint has dried, it’s a good idea to give your deck some time to settle before walking on it. You should also wait a few days before replacing furniture or using your deck for other purposes. If you’re unsure about how long it will take for the paint to dry, consult your local climate and check with the professionals at your nearest home improvement store.

While painting a deck is a big undertaking, it’s definitely doable if you know what you’re doing. By following the tips above, you can ensure that your deck looks its best and lasts for a long time to come. If you’re looking for a professional to handle the job for you, Sharp recommends getting referrals from family and friends.

Applying the Paint

Paint is a tough, durable material that can help protect decks from the elements. It comes in a wide variety of colors and can be mixed to match the aesthetic of your home, yard, or garden. Paint also makes it easier to clean a deck because dirt and grime cannot penetrate the surface of the wood as easily. However, it is important to keep in mind that once a deck has many layers of paint on it, it may be difficult or impossible to strip without damaging the wood underneath.

It is recommended that you use a wire brush to scrub the surface of the deck boards to remove any loose, flaking paint. If you do not remove all of the loose paint, it can cause the new coat to crack and peel. Once the surface of the deck has been cleaned and sanded, it is ready to be painted. Before you apply the first coat of paint, be sure to read the product instructions carefully. You should also pay close attention to the weather conditions where you live, as this can impact how long it will take for the deck to cure and become safe for foot traffic.

Before applying the paint, it is recommended that you cover any plants or items near the deck with plastic sheets to prevent splatters and drips. Then, using a paint roller, begin to apply the coats of paint in even strokes. Once you have covered the majority of the surface, be sure to use a brush to get into any nooks or crannies and to paint the edges of the deck. Be sure to allow the deck to dry in between coats and follow the product instructions for curing times.

Staining a deck serves the same aesthetic and protective functions as painting, but it tends to require less maintenance than paint. It is also possible to choose a stain that contains a built-in primer, which can save time and money. When choosing between stain and paint, consider the amount of maintenance you are willing to commit to, as well as your personal taste and budget.

What Is Asbestos Abatement?

Home Inspection No Comments
Asbestos Removal

Asbestos abatement is the process of removing asbestos-containing materials from homes and buildings. It should only be conducted by Asbestos Removal WA.

To begin the process, contractors must set up a containment area by sealing air ducts, disabling HVAC systems, and plasticizing rooms. Workers wear disposable suits, hoods, and shoes that reduce exposure to airborne asbestos fibers.

Asbestos Removal

Asbestos is a dangerous material that should never be handled or moved by anyone without extensive training. It can be found in textured paint, floor and ceiling tiles, shingles, insulation and many other home and building materials. Although a number of do-it-yourself testing kits are available for asbestos detection, it’s always best to leave the detection and removal to professionals.

Professionals will first evaluate your space, draw up a removal plan that includes locations and timelines. They’ll also need to help evacuate your building’s residents and clients. Before beginning the work, they’ll seal off areas that don’t need to be removed with tarps and heavy-duty adhesives. This prevents asbestos dust from contaminating clean areas.

Once asbestos-free, the abatement company will dispose of the materials in accordance with local, state and federal laws. This may include sending the material to an accredited laboratory for analysis. Once the asbestos has been tested, it can be disposed of in a landfill that specifically accepts such waste. The company will wet the material before it is sealed in primary and secondary bags, tagged with identification and placed in a sealed, leak-proof container for transport to a designated site.

It is illegal to put any asbestos in the trash or dispose of it at home. To make sure that you don’t accidentally bring the asbestos into your home, you can purchase a special disposal container from most hardware and home improvement stores. These containers look very similar to large garbage cans, but are a bit taller and come with handles. The container should be labeled with a warning to keep out children and pets.

During the removal process, the asbestos abatement contractors will need access to water (a garden hose will do), clean buckets and fresh rags, a solid asbestos waste container, asbestos waste bags and specialized personal protective equipment. The experts will also need to cover all vents in the area and place warning notices and barricades around the work zone.

If the asbestos is slightly damaged, it may be safer to leave it alone and not disturb it. However, if you’re considering remodeling your property and think that some of the materials might contain asbestos, have them tested or encapsulated by a licensed professional.

A common misconception is that if you can’t remove asbestos it must be encapsulated, however this may not be the best option for all cases. It is important to note that both encapsulation and removal require an expert assessment. Encapsulation works well on ACMs in good condition that do not pose an immediate risk to people in a building, especially when removal is not practical or possible.

A professional asbestos contractor can determine whether encapsulation or removal is the better choice for your situation. It is important to consider that encapsulation can only be carried out on ACMs that are in stable condition and that have not become friable (easily crumbling). Encapsulation is often the safer option if your ACMs are likely to be disturbed in the future as this can prevent fibre release.

It can also be a more cost-effective option for larger or difficult to reach areas where abatement would be impractical or costly. It can also allow ACMs to remain in situ, which might be preferred for historic or aesthetically significant structures. It can also be carried out with minimal impact to occupants or business operations, making it an ideal choice for refurbishment work.

However, it is worth considering that encapsulated ACMs are still a potential health hazard and should be monitored and maintained to ensure they don’t deteriorate. This could involve regular inspections, air monitoring and re-application of the encapsulant. Additionally, if the ACM is over boarded it will still need to be labelled with asbestos warning labels to alert any future workers.

Encapsulation can also be a less attractive option in terms of appearance as it can leave the structure looking unsightly or ‘cracked’. It can also be difficult to carry out structural or renovation work around the encapsulated area, which is not always desirable. It is also important to remember that although encapsulation can be cheaper than removal, ongoing maintenance and inspections may add up over time. In addition, if the ACM needs to be re-encapsulated in the future, this will incur additional costs. Removal is more efficient and will also offer tax relief under qualifying circumstances.

If asbestos-containing materials are in good condition and haven’t been disturbed, they may be safe to leave undisturbed. However, homeowners should check these materials periodically for wear and tear or signs of moisture damage. If they are damaged, a professional inspection is recommended. If the material is found to be compromised, the best option may be encapsulation.

Asbestos abatement contractors are required to follow strict regulations during the removal process. These include wearing disposable suits, hoods, gloves and shoe covers to avoid contamination of other areas of the building. The contractor will also need to have a separate decontamination area where they can remove their protective equipment before entering occupied spaces.

Once the abatement work is complete, the contractor will need to use a HEPA vacuum to clean up the work area. They will also wet down surfaces to minimize the spread of asbestos fibers. The HVAC system must be disabled so air doesn’t circulate from the abatement area to occupied spaces. The area is then sealed with sheets of polyethylene film and duct tape. The contractor will use a “negative air” machine to draw air from the abatement area through a series of filters, including a HEPA filter. The negative air will then be exhausted outside of the abatement area. Air monitoring will then be done by a third-party firm to ensure the air quality in the abatement area has returned to normal.

A home owner should carefully research the asbestos abatement professionals available, paying close attention to services, safety practices and regulatory compliance. They should ask for references and a list of similar projects that the company has completed. The contractor should also have a general liability and workman’s compensation policy that covers this type of work. They should also have a good reputation in the local community.

Taking the time to find a qualified asbestos abatement contractor can prevent problems later on. Improper handling of asbestos can lead to serious diseases such as mesothelioma and lung cancer. While these conditions are treatable, they can be fatal if not caught in the early stages. Strict regulations exist to prevent do-it-yourselfers and unlicensed asbestos abatement companies from working on these dangerous materials.

Asbestos was incorporated into thousands of products, including building materials, auto parts and consumer items. Its fire-resistant and durable properties made it a popular additive to manufacturing processes from the 1930s to the mid-1970s. However, asbestos is dangerous and can cause cancer if exposed to high levels of fibres over long periods of time. This is why asbestos abatement is so important, as it ensures that any contaminated materials are removed properly and can’t be released into the air.

As a result of the dangers associated with asbestos, the federal government requires that buildings undergo an inspection before any renovation or demolition takes place. The inspection will check for asbestos, and if necessary, an abatement contractor can perform asbestos encapsulation or removal.

Before beginning any work, the abatement contractor will create a containment area and cover surfaces that are not being worked on with plastic sheeting. The contractors wear disposable suits, hoods, gloves, shoe covers and respirators, so that no contamination is brought outside of the abatement area. Then they vacuum the asbestos debris using a HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) vacuum, which ensures that no asbestos particles escape through the exhaust. After all the debris is collected, it’s sealed in leakproof containers while still wet and labeled. The containers are then taken away by licensed hazardous waste transporters to a landfill that accepts asbestos debris.

During the entire process, an air sampling professional will take samples to measure the concentration of asbestos in the air within and outside the abatement area. These air samples must be below the legal limit before the abatement area can be reoccupied. The air sampling professional will also conduct aggressive clearance testing at the end of the abatement procedure to verify that all levels of asbestos are well below acceptable limits.

An experienced asbestos abatement company can help you determine whether encapsulation or removal is the best option for your structure and then follow all of the state and federal regulations to complete the project. Contact today to find out more about how we can assist you with your next asbestos abatement project.

Auto Collision Repair – Why Insurance Is A Good Idea

Car Services No Comments
auto repair

Auto body repair is a time-consuming and labor-intensive process. Despite this, auto body shops are seeing higher revenue opportunities than ever before.

auto repairInsurance

Insurance is a contract between the insured (individual or company who takes an insurance policy) and the insurer, where the latter agrees to compensate the former for financial losses arising from unforeseen contingencies. This is done in exchange for a consideration, called a premium, which the insured pays to the insurance company. Insurance is typically a good idea for people who want to protect themselves against unexpected events that could be financially disastrous.

A car accident can leave you with significant damage to your vehicle, resulting in costly repairs. In many states, your auto insurance will pay to fix the damage, assuming you were not at fault in the accident. However, several factors can affect the amount of money you will get from the insurance company for your vehicle repair.

One big factor is the amount of time it takes to complete the repair. Insurers and repair shops are becoming more focused on cycle times, which is the number of days between when a claim is filed and when the repaired car is back on the road. Shops that can deliver cars in a faster turnaround will gain a competitive advantage over other shops.

Another factor is the cost of parts. Some repairers may choose to use cheaper replacement parts instead of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts. The problem is that these aftermarket parts are often not as durable and reliable as OEM parts. In addition, some insurers have begun encouraging their adjusters and direct repair shops to include “hidden” damage on initial estimates so that the repairers can identify them and order replacement parts as needed.

Finally, the availability of skilled technicians is a crucial factor. Many body shops have certified technicians, but not all do. Inexperienced or unqualified technicians can cost you a lot of money, both by making mistakes and taking shortcuts that might not be in your best interest. You should use only reputable, recommended shops, and check with the technician to be sure they have the proper credentials before letting them work on your vehicle.

Shop Around

Whether you are going through insurance or paying out-of-pocket for your repair, it is a good idea to shop around before settling on a repair shop. This will help you get the best price on the repair and ensure that all of your needs are met. It will also give you a better picture of the total cost of the repair and help to avoid hidden fees.

The first step in shopping for a repair shop is to get estimates from several different shops. This will give you a feel for what is a fair price for the repair and also help you to find out which shops are trying to take advantage of you. If a shop seems high in comparison to others it might be because they are using expensive parts or doing extra work that is not covered by your insurance.

It is important to make sure that the shop you choose has a good reputation and will treat you fairly. You can check online reviews or ask friends and family for recommendations. You can also visit the shop and talk to the people there in person to see if they are friendly and helpful. They should be able to answer your questions and explain the process clearly.

In addition, it is important to look for a shop that uses high-quality parts. This includes both original manufacturer (OEM) and aftermarket parts. OEM parts are those that were originally made for your vehicle and come with a warranty from the manufacturer. They are usually of higher quality than aftermarket parts, which may not be compatible with your vehicle. It is also a good idea to choose a shop that offers a warranty on their work.

After completing repairs, the shop should perform a thorough inspection of the car. This is when they will look for any minor glitches and make any adjustments necessary to bring your vehicle back to showroom condition. They will also test drive the vehicle to make sure that everything is working properly.

In some cases, the shop will be unable to complete the repair without ordering new parts. If this is the case, you should be given a replacement part and a timeline for when the parts will arrive. The shop should also provide you with a detailed report of the work that has been done.

Pay Out-of-Pocket

If you don’t want to deal with the hassle of filing an insurance claim or you simply don’t have enough money to cover the cost of repairing your vehicle right away, paying out-of-pocket may make sense for you. Just be sure that you understand exactly what you’re getting into and ensure that you choose a reputable shop.

Auto collision repair aims to restore your car to its pre-accident condition, which means removing dents, straightening bent metal parts and fixing broken glass, repainting or matching the original paint job, replacing doors and other parts, and detailing. These services can be expensive, but they’re also necessary to keep your vehicle safe and in good working order.

The average car collision repair bill can range from as little as $50 to $2,500 or more, depending on the extent of the damage and the quality of the work performed. For this reason, it’s important to shop around and get estimates from several different shops before making a decision.

It’s also important to consider how much the accident will affect your premium. If you have a comprehensive or liability insurance policy that includes “accident forgiveness,” then your rate should not increase for this one-time event. Otherwise, your insurance company will likely raise your rates.

If you are choosing to pay out-of-pocket, it’s a good idea to have a written contract with the shop that you will take your vehicle to for repair. This can help protect you if the shop overcharges for repairs or doesn’t complete them correctly. It is recommended to ask the shop for a certification which will indicate that they have the proper knowledge and experience to perform high-quality repairs.

It’s also a good idea to ask the shop for an estimate of how long it will take them to complete your repairs and the hourly labor rate. Some shops will not provide this information, but if you can get it, you’ll be better equipped to compare prices from other repair shops. Additionally, it’s helpful to know if the shop will use OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts, which are generally more expensive than aftermarket parts.

Get A Second Opinion

Just like with doctors and home improvement projects, you should always get a second opinion before going forward with auto repair work. It can give you the peace of mind that you’re moving in the right direction, so you don’t wind up with a car that’s not running properly or with damage that wasn’t addressed.

If you’ve already received a quote for repair or replacement, be sure to ask the body shop that provided it for another opinion. It doesn’t cost anything to do, and it may save you time and money in the long run. For example, some mechanics may overstate the amount of damage to your vehicle to upsell you extra services, but a second opinion from an experienced technician could help you save money by identifying only the necessary repairs.

Getting a second opinion is also important because not all repair shops are created equal. You wouldn’t trust a doctor who kept prescribing medication that wasn’t working, and you should never feel pressured to leave your car in the hands of an untrustworthy mechanic. It’s easy for unscrupulous auto technicians to take advantage of naive customers, so you should always seek out an expert who has a track record of integrity and honesty.

You should also make sure that you’re only getting second opinions from skilled and trained mechanics who have the proper equipment to assess your vehicle’s problems. For instance, some body shops may try to cut corners by using non-OEM parts or rushing through the repair process. In the case of an auto accident, this can result in your vehicle not being fully repaired or functioning as it should.

If you’ve been injured in a car crash, a professional can help you understand your legal rights and options. Call us today to set up a free, no-obligation case review. We represent injury victims throughout the state. If you need legal representation in an accident, our experienced lawyers can help you get the compensation you deserve. We are dedicated to fighting for fair treatment and justice for all accident victims.

The Advantages of Vinyl Fences

Fences No Comments
Fences

Vinyl fences are the most popular for homes but come in many different styles, colors, and materials. There are many vinyl fences, each with its advantages and disadvantages. One type of vinyl fence frequently seen on yards is vinyl fencing. Vinyl fencing comes in many different sizes and styles. They are easy to install; however, depending on the style, some may need professional installation.

Fences

Fencing is beautiful yet surprisingly resistant to rotting, cracking, warping, or splintering. These factors contribute to the long life of vinyl fencing. Rot immunity is another advantage of vinyl fences. They are more resistant to insect attacks than wood fences. Vinyl does not pick up the normal, oily build-up common with wood fences. Wood fences eventually develop the typical oily film that develops over time that causes rot.

A vinyl fence, bar vinyl, or PVC fence, is a wooden fence made of vinyl, like vinyl, polyethylene, polythene, or many recycled plastics. Typically vinyl fences have pre-molded planks of vinyl. Composites of more than two plastics can be utilized to increase the strength and durability of a vinyl fence.

The color, texture, and height of vinyl fences are virtually unlimited. This is another advantage that vinyl fences have over wood fences. Wood fence post caps can become stained, dull, or chip after years of heavy use. Vinyl fence post caps do not suffer from these problems because they are easily cleaned with soap and water.

One disadvantage of vinyl fences is that they do not come with natural-looking wood trim. The color and texture of vinyl fencing materials are already pre-installed. You will have to select your trim color and style. You may also need to buy matching color trim outside your fencing.

There are many different styles and colors of vinyl fencing. They are made in the same dimensions as traditional wood fencing, so they are very durable and sturdy. Many homeowners select vinyl fencing for privacy. Privacy is usually one of the primary reasons for installing fences.

Some people prefer the classic look of vinyl fencing, which is available in many different solid colors. They also like the varying heights of the fences. In fact, some of the higher vinyl fences have three or four different heights to give you the ability to customize your fence to fit your yard space. Vinyl fences are also easy to maintain.

If you live in a place with frequent flooding, then wood fencing is not a good choice for your yard. However, if you live where it is very little, or no water activity and the climate tends to stay mild, most of the year, then vinyl might be a great option for you. If you are looking for a high-impact material that will look like wood but is heavy enough to withstand wind and other extreme weather conditions, vinyl fences are a perfect choice. You can install these fences on a slant and angle to look like real wood. You can also install them without a slant, but the look will not be as realistic.

Vinyl fencing is usually made from polyvinyl chloride and will last many years if properly taken care of. Although vinyl fences are more expensive than other types of fencing, they are usually less costly than wood. Also, if you choose vinyl fences, you can handle the tedious task of rotting the wood after you paint it. With polyvinyl chloride, you paint it and then allow it to weather to a natural color.

Another advantage to installing vinyl fences is that they are easy to install. Unlike wood, they come with a series of brackets and studs that make it very easy to install. It will take about four hours to put up a vinyl fence and about an hour to clean up afterward. Although there is a bit of a learning curve, vinyl fencing is one of the easiest types of fence to install in your backyard.

Finally, vinyl fences are available in several different styles. From short, wide picket fences to long, thin picket-style panels, you can find just the right style to suit your unique tastes. In addition, many vinyl fences offer accents to bring out the beauty of your yard. If you are looking for a way to add some height to your backyard and add some privacy as well, consider vinyl fences.

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