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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