tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75617629473249571822024-03-13T00:00:34.739-05:00Ask Mr. Handyman***HANDYMAN DAN***http://www.blogger.com/profile/14912575390137678942noreply@blogger.comBlogger104125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7561762947324957182.post-82737244220292357432015-09-01T19:03:00.001-05:002015-09-01T19:03:16.652-05:00Fall Maintenance
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Each season Mr
Handyman is asked to complete repairs on some of our best customer’s
homes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many times these repairs could
have been avoided and even eliminated if the maintenance had been completed the
season before.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It does not take long for
minor neglect in the maintenance to turn in to a huge repair issue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here are just a few examples where the
neglect of the maintenance has cost the homeowner in a huge way:<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Case #1
Neglected Wood Rot <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In April 2011,
a client asked Mr Handyman to pressure wash and stain his deck prior to having
a graduation party the next month.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While
performing the requested work we noticed the start of wood rot under a bank of
windows.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The estimated repairs would run
in the $1000-$1500 range if completed at that time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In December of 2014 as our customer was
preparing to get his home ready to sell he requested we finally complete the
wood rot repairs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The rot had gotten so
bad that the wood structural components holding up the whole side of the home
had to be replaced, removing and replacing the bank of windows at a cost over
$12,000.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Had this client
completed the repairs in 2011 he would have saved around $11,000 in money he
sunk into a home he eventually sold.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Had
he chose not to complete the work he may not have sold his home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Case #2 Soffit
and Fascia Repairs<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In March, 2015
a first time Mr Handyman customer asked us to perform some repairs to rotted
wood along the edge of her forty-year old home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She had not been diligent in cleaning her gutters every spring and fall
and the clogged gutters would back-up and allow water to drain behind and down
the edge of the home, where water was not meant to be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When we opened up the rotted areas it was
obvious some pretty shoddy previous work had been completed in the past.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When we discussed her repair options she
elected to have us just cover up the fascia and soffit and not to pay any
attention to the other underlying issues.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Maybe a similar decision was made before?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">This customer’s
choice to go the “cheapest” route to home repairs may be costing her so much
more money than if she would have elected to have the repairs completed
professionally the first time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also the
neglect of a 2X per year gutter cleaning has caused her to spend over $1800 in
the one repair we completed for her, not to mention a previous repair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">These are just
two of the many, many examples of repair costs that could have been avoided
with routine maintenance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If budget and
costs keep you from having the maintenance completed where will you find the
funds for the eventual repairs?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In most
cases I think people forget about the maintenance or simply do not have the
time or expertise to get it done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Fall is
here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What can Mr Handyman do for you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Call 402-502-5212 if we can help.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
***HANDYMAN DAN***http://www.blogger.com/profile/14912575390137678942noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7561762947324957182.post-80198483589797205572015-02-02T18:38:00.000-06:002015-02-02T18:38:00.214-06:00Energy Savings in the Home
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Technology has made great strides in energy efficiencies
that may be a great benefit for you as a home owner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you have not gotten on the band wagon yet,
you could be throwing some hard-earned cash out the window, or at least, giving
more to the utility companies than is necessary.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Here is a tid-bit of information to open your eyes to energy
efficiencies and help you reduce your electric bill.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sZZkSWVOBXM/VNAX537tBgI/AAAAAAAAAWs/I_00c-Zdqkc/s1600/CFL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sZZkSWVOBXM/VNAX537tBgI/AAAAAAAAAWs/I_00c-Zdqkc/s1600/CFL.jpg" height="200" width="132" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CFL Bulb</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">CFLs or compact fluorescent light bulbs have been around for
many years now and both the price and the type of light output have greatly
improved.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many homeowners have enjoyed a
decreased energy bill with a swap-out of the most used lighting in their
home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p3zZCp7Uo3I/VNAYGa-6kiI/AAAAAAAAAW0/85HvIRqpC_g/s1600/LED.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p3zZCp7Uo3I/VNAYGa-6kiI/AAAAAAAAAW0/85HvIRqpC_g/s1600/LED.jpg" height="132" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LED bulbs</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">LED lighting has become an even brighter star among the
available options for lighting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
energy use for an LED bulb is very small compared to the old incandescent
bulbs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you were to replace all of
your incandescent light bulbs with LED lights you would probably save $15-$25
per month depending on use and number of lights you have.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">If you replace the 10 most used lights in the home with CFLs
or LEDs in those sockets, you could save $7-$12 per month of use.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Small potatoes, I know, but over time and
with a continued changing out of more of them, you could save even more down
the stretch.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Most people do not find the CFL and LED lights to be
enjoyable, compared to the warm glow of the old incandescent bulbs, but
progress is being made to replicate them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There are LEDs and CFLs that project a different spectrum of light, which
is more appealing to our senses. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">A great way to figure up the cost savings for swapping out
the electron-guzzling incandescent bulbs for the sleek savers of today is to
calculate the energy use for both and compare the figures.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The purchase cost of the newer models is
quite a bit higher so factor that in as you swap them out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">You pay your electric bill by KWH, or kilo-watt-hours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Basically, you are charged for every 1000
watts of energy in an hours’ use.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An
example:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You leave your outside lights on
all night (5 incandescent, 100 watt bulbs).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>If you average 12 hours per night over the course of the month you would
calculate as follows: 5X100(watts) X 12 (hours) /1000 (to figure KWH) X 30
(nights).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You would use 6KWH each night
X 30 nights = 180 KWH.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Electric rates
are around $.10 per KWH.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It would cost
you $18.00 per month to light your yard each night with incandescent bulbs.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">If you swapped those energy-guzzlers out with an equivalent
LED (13 Watts compares to a 100W incandescent in light output) and apply the
above calculation: 5X13X12X30/1000 you would see that it would only cost you
$2.34 for the month of use.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">If you don’t enjoy math, take my word for it, both CFLs and
LEDs will save you quite a bit over their projected life span of use.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Call Mr Handyman @ 402.502.5212 if we can
help you fix or maintain your home.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
***HANDYMAN DAN***http://www.blogger.com/profile/14912575390137678942noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7561762947324957182.post-19361802013367860112014-11-17T05:05:00.000-06:002014-11-13T04:54:56.754-06:00Christmas Decoration Safety tips!<div style="border: currentColor;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-SAnKTzwa8k/SyAAc5dpo8I/AAAAAAAAAEI/7gwSrUF0mfY/s1600-h/Decorations.bmp" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-SAnKTzwa8k/SyAAc5dpo8I/AAAAAAAAAEI/7gwSrUF0mfY/s320/Decorations.bmp" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413327248560858050" style="display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 240px;" /></a></div>
<div>
This photo is a practical joke but it does point out the need to be extra safe when hanging Christmas decorations. The police forced the homeowner to remove it because it garnered so many calls to the 911 center. <br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Christmas Decoration Safety</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
The next few days the weather is going to be quite nice so get out and finish your Christmas decorations. But be safe!<br />
<br />
Every year, hospital emergency rooms treat about 12,500 people for injuries related to holiday lights, such as falls, cuts and shocks.<br />
<br />
In addition, candles start about 11,600 fires each year, resulting in 150 deaths, 1,200 injuries and $173 million in property loss. Christmas trees are involved in about 300 fires annually, resulting in 10 deaths, 30 injuries and an average of more than $10 million in property loss and damage.<br />
<br />
<div style="border: currentColor;">
<u>Here are some tips to keep it safe.</u></div>
<div style="border: currentColor;">
<br /></div>
Always put candles out! Do not let them burn overnight or out of your sight.<br />
<br />
When purchasing an artificial tree, look for a "Fire Resistant." tree. <br />
<br />
When purchasing a live tree, check for freshness. A fresh tree is green, needles are hard to pull from branches and do not break when bent between your fingers. The trunk butt of a fresh tree is sticky with resin, and when tapped on the ground, the tree should not lose many needles. <br />
<br />
<div style="border: currentColor;">
When setting up a tree at home, place it away from fireplaces, radiators and heat vents. Heated rooms dry live trees out rapidly so be sure to keep the stand filled with water.</div>
<div style="border: currentColor;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border: currentColor;">
Check each set of lights, new or old, for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires, or loose connections, and throw out damaged sets. Always replace burned-out bulbs promptly with the same wattage bulbs. </div>
<div style="border: currentColor;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border: currentColor;">
Use no more than three standard-size sets of lights per single extension cord. Make sure the extension cord is rated for the intended use. </div>
<div style="border: currentColor;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border: currentColor;">
Before using lights outdoors, check labels to be sure they have been certified for outdoor use. </div>
<div style="border: currentColor;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border: currentColor;">
Turn off all Christmas lights when you go to bed. The lights could short out and start a fire. Be sure you checked the operation of your smoke detector.</div>
<div style="border: currentColor;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border: currentColor;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-SAnKTzwa8k/TP9qeepL6YI/AAAAAAAAAK8/_0ch-F5U1wQ/s1600/GFCI.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; height: 192px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; width: 199px;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-SAnKTzwa8k/TP9qeepL6YI/AAAAAAAAAK8/_0ch-F5U1wQ/s1600/GFCI.jpg" n4="true" /></a>Outdoor electric lights and decorations should be plugged into circuits protected by ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). Portable outdoor GFCIs can be purchased where electrical supplies are sold. GFCIs can be installed permanently to household circuits by a qualified electrician.</div>
<div style="border: currentColor;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border: currentColor;">
Never use lighted candles on a tree or near other evergreens. Always use non-flammable holders, and place candles where they will not be knocked down. </div>
<br />
Follow container directions carefully to avoid lung irritation while decorating with artificial snow sprays.<br />
<br />
Do not burn wrapping papers in the fireplace. A flash fire may result as wrappings ignite suddenly and burn intensely.</div>
<div class="separator" style="border: currentColor; clear: both; text-align: center;">
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***HANDYMAN DAN***http://www.blogger.com/profile/14912575390137678942noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7561762947324957182.post-82636654055315243942014-11-01T10:23:00.000-05:002014-11-13T04:57:48.520-06:00November Maintenance Tasks<strong>November</strong> is usually the start of the really chilly weather. Here are some general maintenance tasks that should be accomplished in and around the home this month.<br />
<br />
<strong>Clean and maintain major appliances</strong><br />
Clean the drip pans of your electric stove, clean behind the stove, dishwasher and washer & dryer. Pull out the refrigerator and clean the coils and drip pan underneath. Wipe down the furnace, water heater and water softener. Clean around the dishwasher strainer and look for debris in the washing arm (spins and squirts water during the wash/rinse cycle)<br />
<br />
<strong>Keep gutters clean from leaves & debris </strong>Water damage is very costly and can make your home very uncomfortable with mold and mildew, not to mention repair headaches. Some folks prefer to use a powered blower to blast debris out of the gutters. <br />
<br />
<strong>Clean your garbage disposal</strong><br />
Clean and deodorize your in-sink garbage disposal by packing it with ice cubes and 1/2 cup of baking soda; then turn it on. After the grinding noise stops, pour a kettle full of boiling water into the sink.<br />
<br />
<strong>Change furnace filter</strong><br />
Some furnace filters are washable. Have two on hand. One in use, one cleaned and ready to install. Remove the dirty one and install the clean one. Wash and dry the dirty one for use next month.<br />
<br />
<strong>Check operation of your sump-pump</strong><br />
Take the top off the sump and remove any debris that may have collected in there. Pour at least 5 gallons of water into the sump, slowly, to ensure pump is operational. Some people like to run a hose into the sump area, turn the water on to a slow rate and allow the pump to operate for about 1/2 an hour or so. Do not leave it unattended though.<br />
<br />
<strong>Touch-up woodwork </strong>Use "Old English Scratch Remover" or matching stain to cover dents and scratches on your woodwork. Keeping up on this task at least once a year will help preserve a well maintained look to the inside of your home. It only takes a few minutes in each room to accomplish.<br />
<br />
<strong>Turn on your Whole-House humidifier </strong>Many homes are blessed with a whole-house humidifier. If you are lucky enough to have one you should turn on the water supply and usually a manual switch near the humidifier. It is usually at the furnace. Change the water pad (filter-looking device) when there are a lot of white crusty mineral deposits on it.<br />
If you do not have a whole-house humidifier you can hang a large towel or sheet in the shower and keep it wet. The water will evaporate and get into the air. Change out the towel or sheet often (maybe once per week) and make sure it does not get moldy.<br />
<br />
<strong>Cover outside hose bibs (water spigots) </strong>Most new homes have the freeze-proof spigots but they can still freeze if the hose is not removed for the wintertime. This time of year ALWAYS remove the hose after each use. If you do not know if your spigots are freeze proof it won’t hurt to cover them. The foam covers only cost a few dollars to purchase and a few minutes to install. Installing one could save you thousands in repair costs and insurance claims.***HANDYMAN DAN***http://www.blogger.com/profile/14912575390137678942noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7561762947324957182.post-3217012916681583962014-08-31T17:27:00.000-05:002014-08-31T17:27:52.370-05:00Fall Home Maintenance Time!
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Fall Home Maintenance Time is here!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Fall is here…..Already!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Winter is knocking at the door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Is your home prepared for the harsh winter weather?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Consider the long-term cost of neglecting the
pre-winter home maintenance and you’ll see what a bargain we offer with our Preferred
Client Home Maintenance Program.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cZokiBQ6FMg/VAOg-1uSayI/AAAAAAAAAWc/sOUefgAXGyg/s1600/Tasks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cZokiBQ6FMg/VAOg-1uSayI/AAAAAAAAAWc/sOUefgAXGyg/s1600/Tasks.jpg" height="640" width="282" /></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Each year our professional service technicians perform
thousands of dollars’ worth of repairs on customer’s homes that could have been
avoided through regular maintenance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A
house does not come with an Owner’s Manual and most homeowners do not know what
needs to be done or they fail to remember to get it done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our motto “Spend $100’s now in maintenance
or $1000’s later in repairs” says it all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Most costly home repairs could have been avoided with regular
maintenance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Today’s busy families are finding it difficult to keep up
with their careers, children’s activities and everyday chores, let alone home
maintenance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For most, it’s easier to
put off but it could have very expensive consequences if neglected too
long.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We have sadly watched as some of our most valued customer’s
homes deteriorate before our eyes just due to the lack of regularly scheduled
maintenance. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had been asked to
perform specific tasks and projects but had not performed an inspection and
made recommendations for action.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now we
have a specific program to do just that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We are offering a discounted rate to complete the maintenance for you on
a regular basis. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have created a program
that will place the scheduling and completion of the seasonal maintenance on
our lap so we can better serve you and better help you save $thousands$ on
repairs throughout the time you spend in your home. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 1.85pt -1pt 0pt 0in;">
<b><u style="text-underline: black;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">BENEFITS<span style="letter-spacing: 2.45pt;"> </span>OF<span style="letter-spacing: 1.7pt;"> </span>THE<span style="letter-spacing: 1.85pt;"> </span><span style="mso-font-width: 110%;">PROGRAM<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></b></div>
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<u><span style="font-size: 5.5pt;"><o:p><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></span></o:p></span></u></div>
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><u><span style="color: red; font-family: "Gungsuh","serif"; letter-spacing: -0.25pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Peace of Mind</span></u><span style="color: red; font-family: "Gungsuh","serif"; letter-spacing: -0.25pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"> -</span><b><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12pt; letter-spacing: -0.25pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"> </span></i></b><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">M</span><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.75pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">r</span><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: 0.9pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-width: 109%;">Handyman initiates the </span><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">call</span><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.05pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
</span><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">t</span><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">o<span style="letter-spacing: 1.05pt;"> </span><span style="letter-spacing: -0.2pt;">schedul</span>e
your semiannual <span style="letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-font-width: 110%;">appointment</span><span style="mso-font-width: 110%;">s i<span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;">n </span></span><span style="letter-spacing: -0.2pt;">season for</span><span style="letter-spacing: 2.3pt;">
</span><span style="letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-font-width: 108%;">preventativ</span><span style="mso-font-width: 108%;">e<span style="letter-spacing: -0.05pt;"> </span></span><span style="letter-spacing: -0.2pt;">an</span>d<span style="letter-spacing: 1.4pt;"> </span><span style="letter-spacing: -0.2pt;">correctiv</span>e<span style="letter-spacing: 2.35pt;">
</span><span style="letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-font-width: 109%;">maintenanc</span><span style="mso-font-width: 109%;">e<span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;"> tasks</span></span><span style="letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-font-width: 105%;">.</span></span><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><u><span style="color: red; font-family: "Gungsuh","serif"; letter-spacing: -0.8pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Maintains Home Value </span></u><span style="color: red; font-family: "Gungsuh","serif"; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">-</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Halting any deterioration of your home will maintain the
value of your home.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><u><span style="color: red; font-family: "Gungsuh","serif";">Improved Quality of Life</span></u><span style="color: red; font-family: "Gungsuh","serif";"> –</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Gungsuh","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.25pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></b><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.25pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">A
well maintained home is more energy efficient, less likely to have mold &
mildew build up and<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-font-width: 108%;">less chance to cause illnesses for its inhabitants.
</span></span><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><u><span style="color: red; font-family: "Gungsuh","serif";">Reduced Cost of Home Repairs</span></u><span style="color: red; font-family: "Gungsuh","serif";"> –</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Gungsuh","serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-font-width: 114%;"> </span></i></b><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Maintaining is less costly than
repairing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Spend </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">$100’s</span></b><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> now in
maintenance or </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">$1000’s</span></b><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> later in repairs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You will also enjoy special discounts and
programs throughout</span><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: 0.65pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> the </span><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-width: 108%;">yea</span><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.75pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-width: 108%;">r</span><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-width: 104%;">.</span><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><u><span style="color: red; font-family: "Gungsuh","serif";">Maintenance Checklist </span></u><span style="color: red; font-family: "Gungsuh","serif";">– </span><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">At the time of
sale you will have a detailed accounting of the maintenance records of your
home, a potential great selling point</span><span style="color: red; font-family: "Gungsuh","serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">To learn more about our new program or to sign up please
give our office a call at 402-502-5212.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We would be happy to get started this season for you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Read our reviews on Angie’s List, BBB and
Home Advisor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have a great amount of
testimonials listed at Systino (<u>askmrhandyman.blogspot.com</u> - right hand
top).<span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
***HANDYMAN DAN***http://www.blogger.com/profile/14912575390137678942noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7561762947324957182.post-53584923629791528522014-06-01T13:35:00.000-05:002014-06-01T13:35:06.663-05:00Burglaries on the rise!
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Beware; some prominent neighborhoods have recently been hit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">At least twice a week Mr Handyman gets a call from a
panicked homeowner that has just recently been a victim of a break-in and is in
need to have their door fixed or replaced.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The volume of calls has increased over the past few months.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe it’s an indicator of the amount of
crime going on in our city.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">A recent internet article discussed three ways to help
prevent a robbery at your home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
information was old at best and showed a lack of research on the part of the
author.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He stated by installing a deadbolt
lock in addition to the handle lock it would stop a potential break-in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That is simply not the case.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In almost every case where we respond to a
door repair from a break-in a deadbolt lock had been installed and failed just
as easily as the single locking device.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It’s not the locking devices that fail but rather the door frame fails,
allowing easy access.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">If you open up your front door and look at the door frame you
will see the small amount of wood between the strike hole (where the locking
plunger enters when locked) and the interior of your home. There is about ¾ to
1 inch of soft, pine wood.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is easily
broken out with a swift kick or two.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Many homeowners in nicer, west Omaha neighborhoods have an alarm system
installed in their home thinking it will stop a criminal from breaking into
their home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some believe the yard sign
alone acts like a deterrent, that a burglar may pass over a particular home
with an alarm company logo out front but will it actually stop the determined
criminal from breaking in? He may need his "fix" and needs to peddle your wares to get it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vRqiMER_3WU/U4txfpn6MCI/AAAAAAAAAWM/7dx-4xSyZWU/s1600/burglar-kicking-in-house-door.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vRqiMER_3WU/U4txfpn6MCI/AAAAAAAAAWM/7dx-4xSyZWU/s1600/burglar-kicking-in-house-door.jpg" /></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">A determined burglar does not fear the alarm company yard
sign.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He knows with one swift kick on
the door he and his band of thieves can rummage through your home, gather up
their bounty, load up their stolen vehicle and be gone before the police are
able to respond.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The average police
response time nationwide is seven minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>That’s once the police have been notified, after the alarm company has
gone through their call procedures.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Realistically, more than 10 minutes may pass before the black and white
vehicle pulls up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The best defense is to keep them from gaining entry in the
first place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The door frame fails
because the small amount of soft wood just cannot take the force applied in the
kick-in. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s relatively easy for
someone to kick-in with enough force to bust through it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Mr Handyman sells and installs a door protection system that
reinforces the door frame, the door hinge side and the handle area that will
stop the easy access into your home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If
they want in, make them work for it, let it take all sorts of time, let it make
all sorts of noise to alert your neighbors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Most likely they will move on to another home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is inexpensive and would be a great
addition to your home security system.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Call and ask for Dan at 402-502-5212 for more information.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
***HANDYMAN DAN***http://www.blogger.com/profile/14912575390137678942noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7561762947324957182.post-58409766704511412982014-04-09T07:56:00.001-05:002014-04-09T07:56:10.180-05:00VIEW YOUR HOME AS AN ASSET…though it can be a liability.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PvOV3PdPc4o/U0VDQora3XI/AAAAAAAAAVw/RbpXRRJrb4M/s1600/BoO+2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PvOV3PdPc4o/U0VDQora3XI/AAAAAAAAAVw/RbpXRRJrb4M/s1600/BoO+2014.jpg" height="320" width="250" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">
I</span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">n the American culture we pay for things we don’t want to
do ourselves or pay for someone else’s expertise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here are a few examples:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We pay a doctor to evaluate and treat us and our loved ones.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We pay an accountant to complete our taxes,
prepare our books or keep payroll.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
pay the HVAC, Electrician, Plumber or other tradesman to repair fixtures or appliances
in our homes, and we pay an investment company, stockbroker or financial
planner to help us decide where to sock away our earnings for the best return.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">For many Americans their home is one of the largest
investments they will make.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Though you
may not view it as an asset which will provide you a return, neglect it and you
may have to pony up some cash to sell it; a pickle many have been in the past
few years. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So far this season we have found numerous points of
deterioration on some of our customer’s homes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>In several cases if we had not been at the home already it is most
likely the damage would have been overlooked and progressed into an even
costlier repair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the long run, the
money you spend today on the maintenance and upkeep of your home will prevent
you from spending thousands more if it were to be neglected.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">There are no construction companies that offer a Home
Maintenance Program to the degree that Mr. Handyman does.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We systematically inspect and perform
numerous tasks that are often neglected by the homeowner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The neglect is rarely willful; it’s just a
matter of skill level and free time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">While
the performance of the maintenance tasks is the key to the program I feel the
most important, yet virtually unrealized benefit is this: <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Twice a year you will have a professional set
of eyes inspecting and looking at the condition of your home. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Here are the basics of our Annual Maintenance Program:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><u><span style="color: red; font-family: "Gungsuh","serif"; letter-spacing: -0.25pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Peace of Mind</span></u><span style="color: red; font-family: "Gungsuh","serif"; letter-spacing: -0.25pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"> –</span><b><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12pt; letter-spacing: -0.25pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"> </span></i></b><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Twice each year, in the spring and in the fall M</span><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.75pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">r.
</span><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-width: 109%;">Handyman initiates the </span><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">call</span><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.05pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
</span><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">t</span><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">o<span style="letter-spacing: 1.05pt;"> </span><span style="letter-spacing: -0.2pt;">schedul</span>e
your appointment.</span><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><u><span style="color: red; font-family: "Gungsuh","serif"; letter-spacing: -0.8pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Maintains Home Value </span></u><span style="color: red; font-family: "Gungsuh","serif"; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">–</span><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">We inspect and
perform routine maintenance tasks specifically for your home. Catching and
stopping any deterioration will maintain the value of your home.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><u><span style="color: red; font-family: "Gungsuh","serif";">Reduced Cost of Home Repairs</span></u><span style="color: red; font-family: "Gungsuh","serif";"> –</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Gungsuh","serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-font-width: 114%;"> </span></i></b><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Maintaining is less costly than
repairing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Spend </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">$100’s</span></b><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> now in
maintenance or </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">$1000’s</span></b><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> later in repairs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><u><span style="color: red; font-family: "Gungsuh","serif";">Maintenance Checklist </span></u><span style="color: red; font-family: "Gungsuh","serif";">– </span><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">At the time of
sale you will have a detailed accounting of the maintenance records of your
home, a potential great selling point</span><span style="color: red; font-family: "Gungsuh","serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">To learn more about our program or to sign up please give
our office a call at 402-502-5212.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
would be happy to get started this season for you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sign up this spring and allow Mr Handyman to
become your financial "protector" for your home. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
***HANDYMAN DAN***http://www.blogger.com/profile/14912575390137678942noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7561762947324957182.post-38134399281626456902014-03-03T12:22:00.001-06:002014-03-03T12:22:25.741-06:00Omaha Water 7th Worst in US!<div _mce_style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span>Omaha' tap water ranked 7th worst in a study conducted by The Environmental Working Group. Read more about it by clicking here <a _mce_href="http://www.examiner.com/article/omaha-drinking-water-listed-as-7th-worst-u-s" href="http://www.examiner.com/article/omaha-drinking-water-listed-as-7th-worst-u-s">http://www.examiner.com/article/omaha-drinking-water-listed-as-7th-worst-u-s</a>.</span></div>
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<a _mce_href="http://your.website.address.here/" class="imgCaptionAnchor" href="http://your.website.address.here/" track="on"><strong><img _mce_src="https://origin.ih.constantcontact.com/fs101/1114495419438/img/13.jpg?ver=1393862320000?ver=1393862320000" align="left" border="0" height="223" hspace="0" name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.13" src="https://origin.ih.constantcontact.com/fs101/1114495419438/img/13.jpg?ver=1393862320000?ver=1393862320000" vspace="0" width="144" /></strong></a>Some of the water Metropolitan Utilities District filters and treats for use in your tap water comes from the Missouri River and some of it comes out of wells dug in Sarpy County and Western Omaha.</div>
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The Environmental Working Group found 42 of the 142 contaminates they tested for in Omaha's water. One-half of the 42 were above health guidelines and 4 were above the safe limit established by the EPA.</div>
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If this study has you thinking about your options to provide safe and clean drinking water to your family, you are not alone. Many people go through cases of bottled drinking water each year but there are consequences to buying the bottles too. Do you really know the quality of the water you are purchasing? Were the cases out in the sun too long during shipping? Are there contaminates related to the thin plastic bottles? What is the impact to the environment and landfills with so many used, depleted bottles?</div>
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Another option is to purchase jugs and bottles and have them refilled at many locations throughout the Omaha area. Most grocery stores and health food stores have a water station to fill your own jugs. It is usually less costly than buying cases of the bottled water and less impact to the environment.</div>
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By far the best option is to have a water filtering and conditioning system installed in your own home. It would be the most cost effective and least impact to the environment than the other two options. A water softener would allow you to use 1/4 of the normal amount of soap and detergents as you do with the hard tap water from MUD. Your skin and hair would feel soft and clean when you exit the shower with no residue of soap remaining to give you the itches.</div>
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For your drinking water the best choice is a Reverse Osmosis system, usually installed under the kitchen sink or in the basement. It uses the water line pressure to force water through a very effective filter which removes 99% of most contaminates and hard minerals. The filters usually last a year or so before you need to have them replaced.</div>
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The best local source for both of these installed units is Futuramic's Clean Water Center. They sell and service most water conditioning systems like the water softeners and reverse osmosis systems. They can rent the systems out for a low monthly cost and provide service each year to ensure the units are working at their top quality. They've been in Omaha since 1969 and do they ever know about water! They even have fresh, filtered water on tap so you can refill your own jugs.</div>
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There are so many other reasons to get a softener and RO unit installed in your home. Talk to the folks at Futuramic's, they'll test your water and give you all of the great data and information you need. You can reach them at 402.453.5730</div>
</span><br />***HANDYMAN DAN***http://www.blogger.com/profile/14912575390137678942noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7561762947324957182.post-33075515829714932282014-01-27T15:27:00.000-06:002014-01-27T15:31:35.852-06:00Save On Home Ownership Costs!<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Each season Mr
Handyman is asked to complete repairs on some of our best customer’s homes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many times these repairs could have been
avoided and even eliminated if the maintenance had been completed the season
before.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It does not take long for minor neglect
in the maintenance to turn in to a huge repair issue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know I may sound like a broken record to
many of you that read this monthly column but the savings is so significant you
should at least try it.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Here are just a
few examples where the neglect of the maintenance has cost the homeowner in a
huge way:</span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="color: red;">Case #1
Neglected Windows<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In June 2012, a
long-standing customer of Mr Handyman had us out to clean his gutters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While there we advised him about some rot
starting around a lower section of a large bank of windows.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was estimated at the time it would cost approximately
$450 to cut out the rotted wood and perform the maintenance on the rest of the
window area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The minor repair would
extend the life of the windows for another 10 years or so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In the fall of
2013 this customer called and asked that we complete the $450 job but it had
gotten a so much worse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After inspecting
the bank of windows with almost a year and a half of further deterioration it
was determined the windows needed to be replaced at a cost of $3850. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Maintenance
$450<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>Repair $3850<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>Neglect cost <span style="color: red;"><strong>$3400<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="color: red;">Case #2 Pressboard
Siding<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In April of
1012 Mr Handyman was at a customer’s home repairing a few missing shingles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While on the roof we noticed some minor wood
rot where the chimney chase meets the roof line.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We quoted this homeowner $328 to cut out the
small amount of rot, replace it with like material and cover it with a trim
board.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This customer stated she needed
to discuss it with her husband and would be calling us back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">She called us
back but not until the spring of 2013 and stated there was water leaking into
the living room near the chimney.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was
determined that the rotted siding had gotten so bad that a hole the size of a
cell phone was allowing rainwater into the home and down to the living room ceiling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The total cost for the siding and ceiling
repairs was $1785, which was not enough to meet her insurance deductible.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Maintenance
$328<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>Repair $1785<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>Neglect Cost <span style="color: red;"><strong>$1457</strong></span><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">These are just
two of the many, many examples of repair costs that could have been avoided
with routine maintenance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If budget and
costs keep you from having the maintenance completed where will you find the
funds for the eventual repairs?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In most
cases I think people forget about the maintenance or simply do not have the
time or expertise to get it done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Sign-up to our
annual maintenance program to ensure it gets done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Gain some peace of mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our motto is “Spend hundred$ now in
maintenance or Thou$and$ later in repairs.” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Call 402-502-5212 for details.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
***HANDYMAN DAN***http://www.blogger.com/profile/14912575390137678942noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7561762947324957182.post-58191170496359599162014-01-13T11:11:00.003-06:002014-01-13T11:11:34.210-06:00Preventing Ice Dams<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q_UV2NNgMTw/UtQd3BvuO7I/AAAAAAAAAVQ/m75__xF4A6M/s1600/icedam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q_UV2NNgMTw/UtQd3BvuO7I/AAAAAAAAAVQ/m75__xF4A6M/s320/icedam.jpg" width="257" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How Ice Dams Form</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Winter is in full swing here in the plains states with more snow expected.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A few inches or more of snow
can cause ICE DAMMING.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ice damming
happens when snow builds up on the lower 3 feet of roof line, above the
extended eaves. What happens is the upper part of the roof starts to melt and
the moisture drains down to the lower section that does not melt and gets
"dammed up." Basically water pools above the ice and backs up into the
home (comes through the roof). Roofs were made to drain off water, not pool
water.<br />
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Extensive damage can happen in homes if ice damming occurs. Replacement of
ceilings, walls and insulation can be very costly. Insurance will probably
cover some of these costs but deductibles, replacement time, time off work,
coordination hassles etc. will make it well worth the expense to prevent ice
damming in the first place.</span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">The most common cause of ice damning is poor insulation or poor
ventilation in the attic area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Both
issues are solved at the same time when you hire a professional service company
to tackle this issue for you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There may
be other factors in play like a huge amount of snow fall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A snow rake could be used to remove the loose
snow at the eaves of your house or a drift in a valley that remains way too
long.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RglDNwxi128/UtQeE_D3r3I/AAAAAAAAAVc/0MCoFeXAvyo/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RglDNwxi128/UtQeE_D3r3I/AAAAAAAAAVc/0MCoFeXAvyo/s1600/images.jpg" /></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">A weaving pattern of electrical heat tape is a common fix but
should only be installed as a last resort and installed by a professional
service company.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To extend the life of the
heat tape it should only be turned on during the periods of time snow or ice is
present on the roof.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">If you are a Do-It-Yourself type of homeowner, here are a few
tried and true tips for the occasional ice dam.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>If you have some old panty hose laying around the house you could fill
them with "Ice Melt" (must be calcium chloride, not rock salt) and
lay them vertical on the ice dam. The point is to make several vertical breaks
through the ice dam so melted snow has a place to drain off the roof. </span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">If your gutters are full of ice and overhanging with icicles, use
the pantyhose trick and lay them on top of the ice along the gutter line.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The ice will eventually melt and clean up the
ice dam.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These are great tips for the
adventurous but the best overall method is to remove the loose snow right away.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">If you have had ice dams on your roof in the past chances are you
will have them again unless you took corrective measures to prevent them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Call Mr Handyman @ 402.502.5212 before it
happens again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mr. Handyman can help you
solve this issue.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
***HANDYMAN DAN***http://www.blogger.com/profile/14912575390137678942noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7561762947324957182.post-39124668621108640032013-11-26T10:46:00.001-06:002013-11-26T10:46:23.203-06:00Are Alarm Systems Safe?<div class="MsoNormal">
Many homeowners have an alarm system installed in their home
thinking it will stop a criminal from breaking into their home. Some believe the yard sign alone acts like a deterrent,
that a burglar may pass over a particular home with an alarm company logo out
front but will it actually stop the determined criminal from breaking in?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
The most valuable thing an alarm system can offer is notification
of a trigger event. It will notify the
homeowner, the alarm company and, through their third-party call center, the police
that a break-in occurred, presence of fire or smoke, a carbon monoxide leak or
a panic situation such as a hostage event is taking place.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The installed alarm systems are touted as providing the
homeowner “peace of mind” and a guarantee of your family’s safety is
ensured. They sell millions of systems
under these pretenses. Don’t get me
wrong, alarm systems have their place. I've
had them for all of the benefits I know they offer but I also know that they are just one component of ensuring peace and security in my home. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fWYrsTOn1io/UpTP_ix-07I/AAAAAAAAAVA/d2di72lRMts/s1600/door-been-easily-kicked-in.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fWYrsTOn1io/UpTP_ix-07I/AAAAAAAAAVA/d2di72lRMts/s1600/door-been-easily-kicked-in.jpg" /></a>A determined burglar does not fear the alarm company yard
sign. He knows with one swift kick on the
door he and his band of thieves can rummage through your home, gather up their
bounty, load up their vehicle and be gone before the police are able to
respond. The average police response time
nationwide is seven minutes. That’s once
the police have been notified, after the alarm company has gone through their
call procedures. Realistically, more
than 10 minutes may pass before the black and white vehicle pulls up.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ok, now picture the determined psychopath. It could be the ex-husband, your daughter’s
ex-boyfriend or the irate parent of the child your son tackled in Pop Warner
football the night before. What will
stop this lunatic from entry into your home to do you and your loved ones harm? The alarm system panic bottom may get the
police there…..in seven minutes? What
harm could a crazed psychopath do in that amount of time? Would your family ever recover from such an event?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The best defense is to keep them from gaining entry until
help can arrive or you can arm yourself.
Most burglars and crazed psychopaths break down the front door to gain
immediate access. The door frame fails
because there is only about ½ inch of soft wood to break through at the latch and
dead-bolt. It’s relatively easy for
someone to kick with enough force to bust through it. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mr Handyman sells and installs a door protection system that
reinforces the door frame, the door hinge side and the handle area that will
stop the most crazed psychopath from kicking in your door. It is inexpensive and would be a great
addition to your home security system.
Call and ask for Dan at 402-502-5212 for more information.<o:p></o:p></div>
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***HANDYMAN DAN***http://www.blogger.com/profile/14912575390137678942noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7561762947324957182.post-51700094682749739532013-10-30T07:18:00.000-05:002013-10-30T09:45:02.147-05:00This Holiday Season, Observe your Senior ParentsSenior living centers receive more calls after the holidays than any other time of the year. Spend some quality time with your senior parent or grandparent, in their home and observe them in their daily tasks. Do they struggle bathing, using the toilet or fixing a meal? Sometimes they struggle with the most basic task. Watch and observe.<br />
<br />
Today, seniors are remaining in their homes longer, and usually alone. Many adult children do not recognize how much of a struggle their loved one is having in completing daily tasks until a bad fall or other scare triggers a good evaluation and information quest. Most seniors are either too stubborn or too proud to admit they need help or assistance until it’s too late. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="border: currentColor; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OiEP7EJvFeo/Tt9LIBrCOKI/AAAAAAAAAMs/92q009YGulE/s1600/CurveGrabBar1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" mda="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OiEP7EJvFeo/Tt9LIBrCOKI/AAAAAAAAAMs/92q009YGulE/s320/CurveGrabBar1.jpg" width="235" /></a></div>
Planning to live out your senior years in relative comfort is like planning your will, an uneasy task for most but very much a necessity. The old fear that a "nursing home" is the only option has been diminished with in-home care, senior living centers, assisted living and specialized care facilities. If the determination is made to remain in the home there are some common home modifications that need to be considered.<br />
<br />
Falls are a major problem for senior citizens. Sixty percent of falls happen in the home. Bathrooms are the main concern and in fact, are the most common area to require modifications. Reducing the chance for falls in the bathroom is the most important task to consider. These modifications may be extremely minor, like adding grab bars or putting a riser on the toilet to completely revamping the bathroom for wheel-chair access, a walk-in tub or pedestal sink. <br />
<br />
<br />
Replacing old knob-style faucets for the newer, lever-style ones is a simple change, and is especially helpful for people with arthritis. Showers are generally safer than tubs for senior citizens because there is a smaller sidewall to step over. A hand-held shower adaptor and a portable stool is an inexpensive modification that can be installed in a few minutes but it will not relieve the risk of stepping over the side of the tub. Walk-in tubs are a great addition but not for everybody.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="border: currentColor; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7mnxbYX92X4/Tt9LWkRhiLI/AAAAAAAAAM0/BJROYrzyq1k/s1600/imagesCA51Z5SE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" mda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7mnxbYX92X4/Tt9LWkRhiLI/AAAAAAAAAM0/BJROYrzyq1k/s1600/imagesCA51Z5SE.jpg" /></a></div>
Grab bars are essential but they must be properly affixed to the wall. Suction cup grab bars are not recommended regardless what the TV commercials state! Non-slip flooring is a must! A grab bar at the top of a stairway may help to transition from the top step to a landing area.<br />
<br />
Kitchen modifications are usually most necessary when the occupant has true physical handicaps and in need of a wheelchair.<br />
<br />
Wheel-chair ramps, stair-lift units and other home entry modifications are most often thought about when thinking of ‘aging-in place’ but the bathroom is the place most falls take place. The most important factor is to plan ahead. Add these “senior-friendly” home modifications BEFORE they become a “must-have” item. If you witness your elder parent struggle a bit this Christmas season, consider having some of the basic items installed by a professional to assist them before a major fall awakens you to their condition. Act rather than react! You may just save them and you a whole lot of pain and suffering.***HANDYMAN DAN***http://www.blogger.com/profile/14912575390137678942noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7561762947324957182.post-15334864468389246972013-10-29T04:39:00.000-05:002013-10-30T09:45:56.964-05:00Safety Tips for our Senior PopulationHousehold dangers are lurking all throughout the home; and if you’re a member of our senior population, the risks are even greater. <br />
<br />
Interior and exterior lights using motion sensors or photo cells can light the way to safety. Inside the house, place them in the frequently traveled paths at night; like between the bed and bathroom or on your way to the kitchen. Outside, replace the lights that require a flip of the switch with a motion sensor or a photo cell, so you’re never caught in the dark upon returning home.<br />
<br />
Decorative and bath rugs are attractive, but without proper backing or with backing that’s worn down, they can be a slip, trip, or fall hazard. Check and make sure they still grip the floor, and if not, add a non-skid backing or toss them out. <br />
<br />
All inside or outside stairs need to have a hand railing. As you age you may want to consider installing one on each side of the stairwell for your assistance in navigating those steps. <br />
<br />
Your home should already be equipped with working smoke detectors. Each year have someone check their functionality, batteries, and that they’re clear of dust and debris. Cans of compressed air can be purchased and used for cleaning computer keyboards and blowing out cobwebs and dust from your smoke detectors. Carbon monoxide detectors are a must if you have a gas heater, water heater or attached garage.<br />
<br />
Finally, put safety over vanity and be honest with yourself when it’s time to install grab bars, handrails, non-skid strips in the bathtubs and showers. Installing a few of these much needed safety items prior to absolutely needing them will enable you an opportunity to ease into their use as you age and become more dependent upon them.***HANDYMAN DAN***http://www.blogger.com/profile/14912575390137678942noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7561762947324957182.post-17422830111252062352013-08-20T06:54:00.000-05:002013-08-20T06:54:18.620-05:00Selling in the Next Few Years?MSN has a very eye-opening piece about things homeowners do that actually decreases their homes value. I have seen many of these "mistakes" in the Omaha Metro Area as Mr. Handyman has been asked to complete projects for some of these sellers.<br />
<br />
Spend your money wisely! Take these examples into consideration when you fix-er-up!<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://realestate.msn.com/14-mistakes-that-will-kill-your-homes-value">http://realestate.msn.com/14-mistakes-that-will-kill-your-homes-value</a>***HANDYMAN DAN***http://www.blogger.com/profile/14912575390137678942noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7561762947324957182.post-28571671556550903372013-07-16T05:29:00.000-05:002013-07-31T05:37:25.796-05:0011 Projects homeowners should not DIYWatching the cable TV shows you may think the DIY projects seem easy. Some are. Here are a few projects you should never try to tackle unless you have quite a bit of experience.<br />
<br />
<u>Roof Repair</u>. Not only can you hurt yourself if you attempt to fix your roof on your own, but you can also damage your roof and end up in need of even more costly repairs from a pro. Limit your interaction with your roof to seasonal check ups to remove debris from gutters and check for cracked or broken shingles. Since most roof systems can last for up to 20 years, this is definitely a case where you should leave it to the pros.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="border: currentColor; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_DDCfFcQzmI/TkJdc5wAUHI/AAAAAAAAAMk/rZvl9rTbfVQ/s1600/window-replacement.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" naa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_DDCfFcQzmI/TkJdc5wAUHI/AAAAAAAAAMk/rZvl9rTbfVQ/s320/window-replacement.png" width="242" /></a></div>
- <u>Window replacement</u>. Installing new windows is a great way to save energy and in turn, lower your monthly energy bills. However, from the specialized tools that may be required to the proper installation techniques, this is one job left to the pros.<br />
<br />
- <u>Exterior painting</u>. Paint and preparation vary depending on the surface, but no matter the material, the steps of power washing, sanding, paint scraping and caulking must be completed. The goal of most DIY’ers is to save money but not properly tackling the preparation part of the work may cost you much more in the long run. Keep in mind that older homes likely have lead-based paint issues, which can be hazardous to your health.<br />
<br />
- <u>HVAC</u>. Unless you're performing a relatively simple task like installing a programmable thermostat to save energy, most HVAC projects require the help of a professional because very few homeowners know more than just the basics of air ventilation and circulation. <br />
<br />
- <u>Attic Insulation</u>. If your attic is easily accessible, it can be tempting to attempt to insulate your attic on your own, but think twice before installing any. There are several types used in this area and knowing how much to add and where to put it is key. Too much in the wrong places or up against the bottom of the roof can cause wood rot to form.<br />
<br />
- <u>Structural changes</u>. While most homeowners know to keep away from loadbearing walls, some forget to also avoid walls that contain water or gas pipes, electrical wires and ductwork. Hiring a professional can save you the time you'd spend with the guesswork involved in figuring out what walls can go and what must stay.<br />
<br />
- <u>Gutter repair</u>. The installation of new gutters can add great value to a home, but keep in mind that it's difficult to near impossible to repair gutters without impacting your roof, fascia and soffit. If the slope of the gutter is not correct they may rust out prematurely or not function properly.<br />
<br />
- <u>Building a deck</u>. In most municipalities, homeowners must secure a permit when building a deck higher than 18 inches off the ground. Building codes will also affect your build and how far you'll need to dig before installation of footings. Improper attachment to your home can cause wood rot and water intrusion into the living space.<br />
<br />
<u>- Basement Waterproofing</u>. Do your homework before attempting to solve your water problems. While minor issues can be temporarily fixed with waterproofing paint, the results are sure to fade after one or two heavy rainstorms. For a permanent solution hire a professional who will troubleshoot and recommend the best solution.<br />
<br />
- <u>Tree Removal</u>. Forget that you'll need to figure out what to do with the tree once you've knocked it down and consider the time you'll spend measuring and preparing for the fall. There are a lot of factors at play here that a professional tree remover will be much better equipped to handle, oftentimes at a relatively low cost.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="border: currentColor; clear: both; text-align: center;">
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- <u>Tile Work</u>. Especially in ‘wet’ areas like the tub surround or kitchen backsplash. Improperly installing tile in these areas can lead to water intrusion and mold, mildew and wood rot issues. Tile can be expensive so having it installed properly by a professional is your best value.<br />
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<br />***HANDYMAN DAN***http://www.blogger.com/profile/14912575390137678942noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7561762947324957182.post-78392361423030881492013-06-04T22:08:00.001-05:002013-06-04T22:08:25.934-05:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MntfFSpVw44/Ua6rj8IcevI/AAAAAAAAATg/DRIo7K8cwag/s1600/savings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MntfFSpVw44/Ua6rj8IcevI/AAAAAAAAATg/DRIo7K8cwag/s1600/savings.jpg" /></a></div>
SUMMERTIME ENERGY-SAVING TIPS <br />
<br />These tips are designed to help you choose effective ways to reduce your energy bills. The average home spends about $1,900 a year on energy costs. But you can lower your energy bills and help save the environment at the same time! <br />
<br />No cost savings – use your appliances wisely!<br />
<br />
* Use the microwave and grill more. If needed use the stove and oven less and when it is cooler out.<br />
<br />
* Your dishwasher uses less water than washing dishes in the sink. Run it only when full and select the air-dry feature!<br />
<br />
* The more food in your freezer and refrigerator the more efficient it is. Keep them stocked. It keeps from warming up too fast when the door is open. So your fridge doesn't have to work as hard to stay cool.<br />
<br />
* Do your laundry efficiently by using the warm or cold water setting for washing your clothes. Always use cold water to rinse clothes. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-63Kl-ASWhfg/Ua6qfwyd2tI/AAAAAAAAATU/LwEyJCGa6BA/s1600/clothesline.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="85" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-63Kl-ASWhfg/Ua6qfwyd2tI/AAAAAAAAATU/LwEyJCGa6BA/s320/clothesline.jpg" width="320" /></a>* Line dry clothes whenever you can. <br />
<br />
* When you need to use the dryer, run full loads, use the moisture-sensing setting, and clean the clothes dryer lint trap after each use. Clean the whole dryer vent ducting<br />
<br />
* Turn off appliances, lights and equipment when not in use. <br />
<br />
* Unplug electronic devices and chargers when they aren't in use-most new electronics use electricity even when switched "off." Turn computers and printers off at the power strip. <br />
<br />
* Unplug or recycle that extra refrigerator or freezer in the garage if you don't really need it. This will save you up to $150 per year! <br />
<br />***HANDYMAN DAN***http://www.blogger.com/profile/14912575390137678942noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7561762947324957182.post-5812838249722226012013-06-03T12:11:00.005-05:002013-06-04T13:50:36.315-05:00Preferred Client Home Maintenance Program<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SFYO4dWbH_A/Ua418Y9N0xI/AAAAAAAAATE/xkSpf-nDIFM/s1600/Maint+Program.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SFYO4dWbH_A/Ua418Y9N0xI/AAAAAAAAATE/xkSpf-nDIFM/s400/Maint+Program.jpg" width="340" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Each year our professional service technicians perform
thousands of dollars’ worth of repairs on customer’s homes that could have been
avoided through regular maintenance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Houses
do not come with an Owner’s Manual and most homeowners do not know what needs
to be done or they fail to remember to get it done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Advice from home repair professionals goes
along with our radio program motto “Spend $100’s now in maintenance or $1000’s
later in repairs.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most costly home
repairs could be avoided with regular maintenance.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Today’s busy families are finding it difficult to keep up
with their careers, children’s activities and everyday chores, let alone home
maintenance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Something has to give and
from our point of view it is usually the maintenance of the home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For most, it’s easier to put off but it could
have very expensive consequences if neglected too long.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Being in business for over six years now we have sadly
watched as some of our most valued customer’s homes deteriorate before our eyes
just due to the lack of regularly scheduled maintenance. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mr. Handyman produces a weekly radio program
“Ask Mr. Handyman” and a blogsite both dedicated to assisting homeowners
complete their own maintenance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We now
are offering a discounted rate to complete the maintenance for you on a regular
basis. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have turned our advice into a
program that will place the scheduling and completion of the seasonal
maintenance on our lap so we can better serve you and better help you save $thousands$
on repairs throughout the time you spend in your home. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<b><u style="text-underline: black;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">BENEFITS<span style="letter-spacing: 2.45pt;"> </span>OF<span style="letter-spacing: 1.7pt;"> </span>THE<span style="letter-spacing: 1.85pt;"> </span><span style="mso-font-width: 110%;">PROGRAM<o:p></o:p></span></span></u></b></div>
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<u><span style="font-size: 5.5pt;"><o:p><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></span></o:p></span></u></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><u><span style="color: red; font-family: "Gungsuh","serif"; letter-spacing: -0.25pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Peace of Mind</span></u><span style="color: red; font-family: "Gungsuh","serif"; letter-spacing: -0.25pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"> -</span><b><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12pt; letter-spacing: -0.25pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"> </span></i></b><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">M</span><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.75pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">r.</span><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: 0.9pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-width: 109%;">Handyman initiates the </span><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">call</span><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.05pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
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</span><span style="letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-font-width: 109%;">maintenanc</span><span style="mso-font-width: 109%;">e<span style="letter-spacing: -0.1pt;"> tasks</span></span><span style="letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-font-width: 105%;">.</span></span><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><u><span style="color: red; font-family: "Gungsuh","serif"; letter-spacing: -0.8pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Maintains Home Value </span></u><span style="color: red; font-family: "Gungsuh","serif"; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">-</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Halting any deterioration of your home will maintain the
value of your home.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><u><span style="color: red; font-family: "Gungsuh","serif";">Improved Quality of Life</span></u><span style="color: red; font-family: "Gungsuh","serif";"> –</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Gungsuh","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.25pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></b><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.25pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">A
well maintained home is more energy efficient, less likely to have mold &
mildew build up and<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-font-width: 108%;">less chance to cause illnesses for its inhabitants.
</span></span><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><u><span style="color: red; font-family: "Gungsuh","serif";">Reduced Cost of Home Repairs</span></u><span style="color: red; font-family: "Gungsuh","serif";"> –</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "Gungsuh","serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-font-width: 114%;"> </span></i></b><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Maintaining is less costly than
repairing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Spend </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">$100’s</span></b><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> now in
maintenance or </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">$1000’s</span></b><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> later in repairs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You will also enjoy reduce</span><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">d<span style="letter-spacing: 2.5pt;"> </span><span style="letter-spacing: -0.2pt;">labor rate</span>s<span style="letter-spacing: 1.45pt;"> </span><span style="letter-spacing: -0.2pt;">fo</span>r<span style="letter-spacing: 0.65pt;"> the </span><span style="letter-spacing: -0.2pt;">ful</span>l<span style="letter-spacing: 0.1pt;"> </span><span style="letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-font-width: 108%;">yea</span><span style="letter-spacing: -0.75pt; mso-font-width: 108%;">r</span><span style="mso-font-width: 104%;">.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: red; font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><u><span style="color: red; font-family: "Gungsuh","serif";">Maintenance Checklist </span></u><span style="color: red; font-family: "Gungsuh","serif";">– </span><span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; letter-spacing: -0.2pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">At the time of
sale you will have a detailed accounting of the maintenance records of your
home, a potential great selling point</span><span style="color: red; font-family: "Gungsuh","serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;">To learn more about our new program or to sign up please
give our office a call at 402-502-5212.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We would be happy to get started this season for you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Read our reviews on Angie’s List, Systino
- right hand top) and Home Advisor.<span style="font-family: "Elephant","serif"; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
***HANDYMAN DAN***http://www.blogger.com/profile/14912575390137678942noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7561762947324957182.post-25721045065936924802013-04-02T09:24:00.002-05:002013-04-02T09:24:32.155-05:00Spring Home Maintenance
<br />
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Spring cleaning
gets all of the attention this time of year, but spring maintenance proves just
as important, even more so in certain situations. Get your home in shape with this
<a href="http://mrhandymantips.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/spring_checklist_noperiod.pdf"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Spring Home
Maintenance Checklist</span></a>. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1. Inspect
Gutters and Downspouts</span></b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br />
</span><a href="http://www.mrhandyman.com/handyman-services/our-services/outdoor-home-repair/gutter-cleaning-and-repair.aspx" title="Gutter Cleaning and Repair"><span lang="EN" style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Gutters
and downspouts</span></a><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> must be free of debris and damage to correctly direct water away from your
home’s foundation, which is their sole purpose.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You do not want to learn about a clog by seeing water in your basement.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2. Remove Trees
and Shrubs from Around House</span></b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br />
Trees and shrubs can brush up against siding and cause damage during a
windstorm. Foliage traps moisture against the house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Trees and shrubs should be at least 12 inches
from the edge of the home.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">3. Inspect
Caulking Around Doors and Windows</span></b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br />
Check the caulk around windows and doors each season, as temperature changes
can cause cracks, which lets air leak in and out of your home. Water and
critters also can get in.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">4. Inspect Wood
Decks, Railings, Windowsills and Steps</span></b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br />
Inspect the wood structure around your home for rot that took hold during the
winter months. If boards become soft or splinter, they create an unsafe
situation for you and your family. Replace whenever necessary.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">5. Remove
Mildew and Moss From Decks and Patios With Pressure Washer</span></b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br />
</span><a href="http://www.mrhandyman.com/home-repair-tips/powerwashing-services.aspx" title="Professional Power Washing"><span lang="EN" style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Pressure
washing</span></a><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> sprays away
unwanted mildew or moss from just about any surface. Use it to clean your tile
patio, wooden deck, or concrete driveway and/or walkway. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">6. Clean and
Inspect Window Screens</span></b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br />
Give your window screens a once-over to ensure no critters or pests can work
their way through bent frames, holes or tears. A little work now will keep you
from having to remove unwanted guests from your home.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">7. Look for
Moisture in Basement and Crawl Space</span></b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br />
When you do get a good rain, look for leaks in your crawl space or basement
that could turn into costly repairs. Also check regularly under sinks and in </span><a href="http://www.mrhandyman.com/home-repair-tips/indoor/bathrooms.aspx" title="Bathroom Repair Tips"></a><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">the kitchen and laundry room to ensure pipes are intact.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">8. Inspect
Laundry Room Hoses for Cracking</span></b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br />
Your laundry room also can be a source of flooding. Check the water-supply
hoses each spring for cracks. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">9. Inspect
Grout & Caulking in Bathrooms</span></b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br />
Check your </span><a href="http://www.mrhandyman.com/handyman-services/our-services/bathroom-repair/tile-repair.aspx" title="Tile Repair"><span lang="EN" style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">bathroom grout</span></a><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> and caulking for
discoloration and cracking. It costs much less to replace now than waiting for
the damage to happen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">10. Replace Batteries in Smoke and
Carbon Monoxide Detectors<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">They should get fresh batteries twice a
year, instead of when the chirping detector wakes you at 3 a.m.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
***HANDYMAN DAN***http://www.blogger.com/profile/14912575390137678942noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7561762947324957182.post-7448064853133572712013-03-04T13:30:00.003-06:002013-03-04T13:30:49.383-06:00
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Go
Green!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Get Free 'Green Stuff’ from Uncle
Sam.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1r6f4azEmV8/UTT2Qi0A0CI/AAAAAAAAASg/58QjrU7sAy4/s1600/$100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1r6f4azEmV8/UTT2Qi0A0CI/AAAAAAAAASg/58QjrU7sAy4/s320/$100.jpg" width="212" /></a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">As a
primary homeowner a tax payer could receive up to a $500 tax credit for
increasing the energy efficiency of their home. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you use your tax return to purchase energy
efficient doors, windows, HVAC equipment, water heaters, insulation and roofing
materials you can get 10% of that money returned to you as a tax credit (up to
the maximum $500) on next year’s return.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>If you need some of these items anyway taking advantage of this tax
credit just makes financial sense.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">There
are certain requirements and some paperwork to keep but it is money returning
to you. If you do not take advantage of it this year you will miss out. This
tax credit expires at the end of this year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>To put it another way, If you receive a tax return of $1000 this year
and expect to get about the same back next year, you could spend this year’s
return on a $1000 home improvement (materials costs only) and next year you'll
receive $1100 back instead of the $1000 because of the tax credit. You would
need to spend $5000 on these home improvement projects to max out at the $500
limit ($200 limit on windows only).<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">For
windows and doors the requirement does not indicate it be used as a replacement
for an existing unit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It could be a new
door or window installed in your home or an addition.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">If you
have the need for larger energy efficient items such as a geothermal heat pump,
a solar electric system or a wind turbine the tax credit is up to 30% of the
installed cost with no upper limit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This
tax credit program expires at the end of 2016.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">If
utilizing this tax credit does not get you excited about saving a few hundred
dollars on next year’s tax return consider the long term cost savings of the
more efficient item you installed in your home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>An example; If you spent $1000 on another layer of insulation in your
attic based on need you could save up to an average of $40 per month in related
energy costs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s $480 saved each
year!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With energy costs on the rise each
year the savings will continue each and every month.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Not all
windows, doors and HVAC purchases qualify for the tax credit. They must be
Energy Star rated to qualify so be sure the vendor of choice knows this to be
compliant. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Consult a tax professional or
go to <u>energystar.gov</u> for more detailed information. You can call Mr.
Handyman at 402-502-5212 for more information and installation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
***HANDYMAN DAN***http://www.blogger.com/profile/14912575390137678942noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7561762947324957182.post-72166854442879890472013-02-04T09:15:00.006-06:002013-02-04T09:16:33.103-06:00Selling Your Home This Summer?<h4>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Or are you planning
to sell your home in the next few years?<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></h4>
<br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">The 2013 selling season is
approaching; Start planning now to get the best offer on your home.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18pt; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">Let’s
face it: It hasn’t been a seller’s market the past few years. For those looking
to sell their homes, they’ll need to pull out all the stops, and it starts with
simple home improvements.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here are a few
tips to help you get a handle on it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="background: white; line-height: 18pt; margin: 0in 0in 2.25pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><strong><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;">Patching </span></strong><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">unsightly
nail holes, loose tape seams and chipped corners is an easy way to make walls
look fresh and new.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="background: white; line-height: 18pt; margin: 0in 0in 2.25pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><strong><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;">Painting the walls a warm or
neutral color will appeal to the widest a</span></strong><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">udience
of buyers. A fresh coat of paint will make the house look and smell clean and
new. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="background: white; line-height: 18pt; margin: 0in 0in 2.25pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><strong><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;">Replace dinged, scratched and
chipped baseboards and trim. T</span></strong><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">hey stand out to the
increasingly picky consumer. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="background: white; line-height: 18pt; margin: 0in 0in 2.25pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><strong><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;">If you have carpet or vinyl in a
typical wet area like entryway or bathroom replace it with tile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></strong><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">Tile doesn’t hold dirt like
carpet, is cool in the summer and is impervious should the kids or pets track water
and dirt in. Tile floors that are lighter in color with a darker grout are most
popular right now. It’s a great upgrade that will pay off at the sale.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="background: white; line-height: 18pt; margin: 0in 0in 2.25pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;"><strong>Different lighting options can influence the mood of any
room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A few new light fixtures
throughout the house would be an inexpensive upgrade.</strong><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="background: white; line-height: 18pt; margin: 0in 0in 2.25pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><strong><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;">Updating kitchens and bathrooms pay
off in the long run but not in the short term.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>If they need upgraded to compete with other homes in your price range,
do it. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></strong><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">Before
making major renovations, keep in mind that minor upgrades can go a long way.
An easy and inexpensive way to breathe new life into a bathroom or kitchen is
to replace old light fixtures, faucets and hardware with modern alternatives. A
thorough cleaning, re-grouting and new caulking will help a tub or shower look
fresh and clean. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="background: white; line-height: 18pt; margin: 0in 0in 2.25pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">7.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><strong><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;">Improve the curb appeal. </span></strong><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">The
outside of your home can make a strong first impression, and a well-maintained
yard with eye-catching plants and landscaping adds elegance. Consider power
washing the siding and deck, while adding a fresh coat of paint to entry doors
and trim. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="background: white; line-height: 18pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">8.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;"><strong>The number one thing home owners can do to ensure their home sells
quickly is to keep up on the maintenance.</strong> Buyers do not want to purchase a home
and spend money to accomplish numerous years’ worth of neglected maintenance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Caulking around windows and doors, rotted
siding and trim, cracked sidewalks and driveways all point to missed
maintenance. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">If you do not have the time or experience to accomplish the
upgrades or to keep up on the maintenance please call Mr. Handyman at
402-502-5212.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have the professionals
that can take care of everything on your to-do-list.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
***HANDYMAN DAN***http://www.blogger.com/profile/14912575390137678942noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7561762947324957182.post-5960852424278260062013-02-04T09:11:00.003-06:002013-02-04T09:11:48.540-06:00Kitchen Remodel in Your Thoughts?
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 2;">
<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 18pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://blog.mrhandyman.com/2012/12/28/kitchen-remodeling-costs-budget-and-contractor/" title="Permanent Link to Kitchen Remodeling Costs: Basics for Budgeting and Hiring a Contractor"><span style="color: blue;">Kitchen Remodeling Basics</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The new year
brings with it a new to-do list for your home. Is a </span><a href="http://www.mrhandyman.com/handyman-services/our-services/kitchens.aspx" title="Kitchen Remodeling"><span lang="EN" style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">kitchen remodel</span></a><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> on it for
2013? If so, then ask yourself the following questions when putting together
your plan.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">#1.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What is my goal?</span></b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br />
Do you want to completely replace the cabinets, countertops and flooring, or do
you simply want to give it a surface makeover? The difference between these two
goals will be thousands of dollars.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">If you plan to
completely remodel the kitchen, make a list of everything you want to do. Do
you plan to replace </span><a href="http://www.mrhandyman.com/handyman-services/our-services/carpentry/cabinets.aspx" title="Mr. Handyman Cabinet Installation"><span lang="EN" style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">cabinets</span></a><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> and </span><a href="http://www.mrhandyman.com/handyman-services/our-services/kitchens/countertop-installation.aspx" title="Mr. Handyman Countertop Installation"><span lang="EN" style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">countertops</span></a><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">? Is a </span><a href="http://www.mrhandyman.com/handyman-services/our-services/floor-installation.aspx" title="Mr Handyman Floor Installation"><span lang="EN" style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">new
floor</span></a><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> in the plan? Will
new appliances go where the older ones sit now or elsewhere in the room? Do you
want to add </span><a href="http://www.mrhandyman.com/handyman-services/our-services/window-repair-installation.aspx" title="Mr. Handyman Window Repair-Installation"><span lang="EN" style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">windows</span></a><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> or </span><a href="http://www.mrhandyman.com/handyman-services/our-services/door-installation.aspx" title="Mr Handyman Door Installation"><span lang="EN" style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">doors</span></a><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">, install new </span><a href="http://www.mrhandyman.com/handyman-services/our-services/electrical.aspx" title="Mr. Handyman Lighting installation"><span lang="EN" style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">lighting</span></a><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">, knock-down
walls?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">If you simply
desire a surface makeover, then refinishing cabinets instead of replacing them,
and updating hardware, will get the job done in that area. A new countertop and
sink can be added to the refinished cabinets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>New appliances can still be on the want list, but you will need to keep
them where the current connections exist. The cost of moving water and gas
lines can add thousands to the cost of the project.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">#2<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What is my budget?</span></b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br />
There are two ways of putting together a budget for a kitchen remodel. You can
either take your list of wants and go window/internet-shopping for ideas, then
add up the costs, only making compromises once you see the expense of your
desires.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Or you can set
a fixed dollar amount and shop only within your means. Frankly, this option
proves the best way to not overspend on a kitchen remodel, as you won’t even
see the super-expensive appliances, granite or custom cabinets, and be tempted
to go above and beyond what you can realistically afford.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">With either
approach, you should always keep resale value in mind. In the right market
location, you can recoup up to 90 percent of the cost of a kitchen remodel
during resale. You also should consider resale when making your design choices.
If you plan to move in the next five years or so, you might want to stick with
finishes and floors that suit a wider homebuyer base, as opposed to creating a
quirky kitchen only your family will love. Potential homebuyers will factor in
their own kitchen remodeling costs when making an offer on a house that does
not meet their own tastes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Consider all of
these factors before speaking with a contractor or </span><a href="http://www.mrhandyman.com/handyman-services/professional-service.aspx" title="Professional Handyman Service"><span lang="EN" style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">professional
handyman</span></a><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> about the
project.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They will need to know your
projected budget and desires before they can give you an idea of the costs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Remember, now is the time to get exactly what
you want in your kitchen so stretching your budget now will pay in your overall
satisfaction through the years.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Most people focus strictly on their tastes and wants when thinking of changes to the kitchen. Putting a dollar figure as a budget will help shape the overall method to acheiving that goal without breaking the bank.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Mr. Handyman
does more than small jobs around your home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Each year we complete many bathroom and kitchen remodels for our
satisfied customers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Please consider Mr.
Handyman for your larger projects too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Mr. Handyman can be reached at 402-502-5212.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
***HANDYMAN DAN***http://www.blogger.com/profile/14912575390137678942noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7561762947324957182.post-51645034285130278662012-11-27T22:24:00.000-06:002012-11-27T22:24:56.361-06:00Baby Proof Your Home<h2>
I have a Baby on the Way. How Can I Baby Proof my Home?</h2>
<br />
So you have a baby on the way, congratulations! The first step in baby
proofing your home is to look at the environment from the point of view your
baby will have once it starts crawling. By crawling around your home on your
hands and knees, you can see the world from a baby’s-eye view, which will
present dangers you hadn’t seen before. As your child starts to walk, you of
course will need to reevaluate your child proofing measures.<br />
<br />
<strong>Tips for Baby Proofing your Home </strong><br />
<br />
<strong>Key things to look for: </strong><br />
<br />
<ul class="ul_generic" sizcache009773976719943011="1" sizset="37">
<li>
What’s within the baby’s reach? Are there small objects on or close to the
floor that the baby could choke on? Place unsafe objects higher up or put them
away for a period of time.</li>
<li>
Are the sharp edges on furniture such as coffee tables or end tables covered
up?</li>
<li>
Do you have large, top heavy furniture? As babys start to crawl they
begin pulling themselves up on furniture. Making sure dresser and cabinet
drawers stay shut and bolting certain pieces of furniture to the wall can ensure
the safety of your baby.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<strong>Home repairs to prepare for your baby:</strong><br />
<br />
<ul class="ul_generic" sizcache009773976719943011="1" sizset="40">
<li>
Place outlet covers on electrical outlets.</li>
<li>
Install safety gates in doorways of unsafe rooms and stairwells. Remember to
buy safety gates that bolt to the wall for use at the top of stairs. They are
much more secure than pressure gates.</li>
<li>
Prevent pinched fingers by using doorstops and door holders on doors and
their hinges.</li>
<li>
Install windows that are double hung and can be opened from the top.</li>
<li>
Check existing smoke detectors and install a fire extinguisher, especially in
the kitchen.</li>
<li>
Install childproof locks on all lower cabinets and drawers.</li>
</ul>
<br />
Mr. Handyman can help make your home a safer place for your entire family,
while helping you to prepare for your newest arrival! Whether it’s painting the nursery or
assembling a new crib, we will have the job completed on time and done right, so
you can feel prepared for your family’s new addition. We provide both minor and major
home repairs you can depend on to be correct when we walk out the door. Don't trust
the process of baby proofing your home to just anyone, request services from America's
most trusted handyman. Call today 402-502-5212.***HANDYMAN DAN***http://www.blogger.com/profile/14912575390137678942noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7561762947324957182.post-4367435124670602922012-11-14T05:29:00.001-06:002012-11-14T05:31:33.885-06:00Cleaning Secrets!<div class="ecxMsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<div class="ecxMsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="color: #2a2a2a; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"> Wipe Rain
X on shower doors and tile to keep soap scum from sticking.</span></div>
<div class="ecxMsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="color: #2a2a2a; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<div class="ecxMsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
</div>
<div class="ecxmsolistparagraph" style="background: white; margin: 0in 0in 16.2pt 0.5in;">
<span style="color: #2a2a2a; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">Armor
All will clean hard water deposits off of plastic items like dish drainers and
room humidifiers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="ecxMsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
</div>
<div class="ecxmsolistparagraph" style="background: white; margin: 0in 0in 16.2pt 0.5in;">
<span style="color: #2a2a2a; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">Use a moistened
dishwashing glove to wipe over furniture to remove pet hair and then rinse the
glove to remove.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="ecxMsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
</div>
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<span style="color: #2a2a2a; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">If you
have a hard time keeping focused on cleaning - set your oven timer for 30
minutes and clean straight until it goes off and see how much you get done.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #2a2a2a; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">A used
dryer sheet works great to dust black or espresso colored furniture – it helps
repel dust for a longer period of time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #2a2a2a; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">The product
Bar Keeper’s Friend will clean porcelain kitchen sinks as well as remove the
scratches off of your white dishes. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #2a2a2a; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">Clean
your bathtub using a mixture of one part vinegar and one part dish soap.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Spray on your bathtub and leave it for one
hour … rinse and wipe clean.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your tub
will sparkle and shine without scrubbing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #2a2a2a; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">If you
have problems with fruit flies use a small glass bowl, ½ a cup of wine and a
couple of small pieces of fruit, cover with plastic wrap. Poke a couple of
holes in the plastic wrap and leave the bowl out for a couple of days… fruit
flies will be caught and your problem solved. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #2a2a2a; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">Danish
oil finish can be used to cover scratches on most furniture and wood trim. It
comes in different colors so you can match the color of the wood. It is as
simple as wipe on and wipe off.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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***HANDYMAN DAN***http://www.blogger.com/profile/14912575390137678942noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7561762947324957182.post-38689745744476996432012-10-31T05:56:00.001-05:002012-10-31T05:57:05.783-05:00Prepare in Times of DisasterThe hurricane and storm on the east coast offers us in the midwest no comfort except thankfulness that it did not happen here. It does remind us what we could experience here in the form of natural disasters, flooding, tornadoes and blizzards. Preparing for an evacuation should be done prior to the emergency so when it comes the family can continue to thrive after the emergency. <br />
<br />
Ready in 10 Minutes Kit. <br />
<br />
If a disaster was eminent, such as flooding, a chemical leak or a tornado bearing down on your community and you only had 10 minutes to evacuate, what would you do? It is vitally important to have a plan and an evacuation kit that is ready to go at any moment. <br />
Ready in 10 evacuation plan must include a way to instantly locate and safeguard the vital information, documents and keepsakes that you’ll need to have access to after the emergency has passed. To start the plan you need to know:<br />
<br />
• Who will be going with you, of course your immediate family and pets but others may be considered.<br />
• Where you will go for the different disasters that may take place<br />
• Where you will stay for both short term and long term stays. It may be a while before you can return or you may not have a home to return to.<br />
• How will each of you get there?<br />
<br />
The ready in 10 plan should also include a checklist of vital items to escape with:<br />
<br />
• Medical records and medications for each person<br />
• Insurance and deed information <br />
• Wallet, purse, cell phone, chargers, keys, contact information for others <br />
• Vital information documents, birth certificates, marriage license etc. <br />
• Toiletries and a change of clothes for a couple of days<br />
• Food and water necessities for the trip out<br />
• Battery powered radio, flashlight.<br />
• Keepsakes or treasured items<br />
• Financial documents<br />
<br />
A person or family can never fully prepare for a disaster but being able to pick up their lives after the emergency is the second most important task behind surviving it in the first place. Taking time to prepare your evacuation plan prior to any emergency situation may save your life and make it much easier as a survivor.***HANDYMAN DAN***http://www.blogger.com/profile/14912575390137678942noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7561762947324957182.post-77315729920225484922012-10-03T05:12:00.001-05:002012-10-03T05:12:32.739-05:00Fall Maintenance Tasks<h3 class="yiv707033867ecxpost-title yiv707033867ecxentry-title">
Fall Maintenance tasks</h3>
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<strong>October</strong> is usually the start of chilly weather and it appears to be 3 weeks early. Here are some general maintenance tasks that should be accomplished in and around the home this month.<br /><br /><strong>Clean and maintain major appliances</strong><br />Clean the drip pans of your electric stove, clean behind the stove, dishwasher and washer & dryer. Pull out the refrigerator and clean the coils and drip pan underneath. Wipe down the furnace, water heater and water softener. Clean around the dishwasher strainer and look for debris in the washing arm (spins and squirts water during the wash/rinse cycle)<br /><br /><strong>Keep gutters clean from leaves & debris </strong>Once the leaves fall, keep the gutters clean. Water damage is very costly and can make your home very uncomfortable with mold and mildew, not to mention repair headaches. Some folks prefer to use a powered blower to blast debris out of the gutters. <br /><br /><strong>Clean your garbage disposal</strong><br />Clean and deodorize your in-sink garbage disposal by packing it with ice cubes and 1/2 cup of baking soda; then turn it on. After the grinding noise stops, pour a kettle full of boiling water into the sink.<br /><br /><strong>Change furnace filter</strong><br />Some furnace filters are washable. Have two on hand. One in use, one cleaned and ready to install. Remove the dirty one and install the clean one. Wash and dry the dirty one for use next month.<br /><br /><strong>Check operation of your sump-pump</strong><br />Take the top off the sump and remove any debris that may have collected in there. Pour at least 5 gallons of water into the sump, slowly, to ensure pump is operational. Some people like to run a hose into the sump area, turn the water on to a slow rate and allow the pump to operate for about 1/2 an hour or so. Do not leave it unattended though.<br /><br /><strong>Touch-up woodwork </strong>Use "Old English Scratch Remover" or matching stain to cover dents and scratches on your woodwork. Keeping up on this task at least once a year will help preserve a well maintained look to the inside of your home. It only takes a few minutes in each room to accomplish.<br /><br /><strong>Turn on your Whole-House humidifier </strong>Many homes are blessed with a whole-house humidifier. If you are lucky enough to have one you should turn on the water supply and usually a manual switch near the humidifier. It is usually at the furnace. Change the water pad (filter-looking device) when there are a lot of white crusty mineral deposits on it.<br />If you do not have a whole-house humidifier you can hang a large towel or sheet in the shower and keep it wet. The water will evaporate and get into the air. Change out the towel or sheet often (maybe once per week) and make sure it does not get moldy.<br /><br /><strong>Cover outside hose bibs (water spigots) </strong>Most new homes have the freeze-proof spigots but they can still freeze if the hose is not removed for the wintertime. This time of year ALWAYS remove the hose after each use. If you do not know if your spigots are freeze proof it won’t hurt to cover them. The foam covers only cost a few dollars to purchase and a few minutes to install. Installing one could save you thousands in repair costs and insurance claims.</div>
***HANDYMAN DAN***http://www.blogger.com/profile/14912575390137678942noreply@blogger.com