ROOFERS: How to Choose a Roofing Contractor
Changing the roof on your home may be the single most expensive remodeling task you can undertake, which may be why today more people are turning to the Web for some solid guidance. Although most of us understand the basics of materials and labor, older construction and unusual demands can easily send a project’ s price skyrocketing. The last thing you want is for unexpected obstacles to turn an otherwise routine job into a financial nightmare.
Thankfully there are some easy ways to choose from among the roofing contractors in your area, and all you need to get started is some expert advice by people who’ ve been there. Although many roofing contractors are reluctant to offer a solid estimate when you first call, a little comparison shopping can greatly improve your bargaining position and give you better chances at an accurate figure. Know the market and understand what’ s entailed and you should expect the roofing contractors you reach to be far more agreeable.
Of course there is a significant difference between merely covering a home and doing so in a way that enhances its value, so you may want to look into credentials and prior experience before you hire. Many roofing contractors tend to focus on one kind of home or another, finding a niche for themselves in slate, tile or wood. Do a little research into the background of options you see and you should be in a far stronger position to make an informed decision.
Roofing contractors today can come in many forms, from basic journeymen laborers through incorporated businesses that have standardized their rates. Depending on the size of your home and what kind of work you require, it may be useful to ask fellow homeowners where they’ ve found the most luck. Thankfully the Internet has made it easier than ever to commune with like-minded roofing clients in your area.
Choosing the right roofing contractor takes nothing more than will, research and a little motivation. Look around the Web for resources that point you toward professionals with true integrity and you should come away thrilled with the new look of your home.
SECURITY: Top 10 home security tips
Security is of paramount importance to any South African household and the more you know, the more secure you’ ll be.
Homeowners should keep the following 10 simple but crucial security tips in mind as they start the New Year.
1. Seek qualified advice from a security consultant who will carry out a risk assessment and recommend an alarm system specifically suited to your property.
2. Make sure that your chosen security provider is a registered member of the South African Intruder Detection Service Associations( SAIDSA) as this is a guarantee that any work carried out by them and
equipment installed meets the appropriate industry standards.
3. Test your alarm at least once a month and request the services of a technician immediately if your alarm is faulty. It is important to remember to inform your security provider that you are putting your system into the « Test » mode.
4. Where possible, install exterior lighting that can be controlled remotely from inside the house. It is also worth considering demand lighting that is activated by a motion detector.
5. Try to reduce foliage and bushes in the vicinity of your driveway as these act as good hiding places for would-be criminals.
6. Increase visibility – Do you have any high walls or tall hedges obscuring your view of the property? Try to remove these if possible.
7. Automatic gates are preferable, as you don › t have to leave the safety of your vehicle in order to access your premises.
8. Create a « safe area » in your home by fitting a wrought iron gate or an expanding grille gate into which the family can retreat in an emergency.
9. Install a safe to store valuable items and copies of keys. Wall safes are usually not fireproof and therefore not suitable for cash or documents.
10. Add an emergency number to the speed-dial function on your phone.
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