Prevent Pinhole Leaks & Slab Leaks & Conserve Energy by Controlling Your Hot Water Circulating Pump

If you have had 1 leak, more will surely follow - you can do something about it before further damage is done and additional money is wasted.

Circulating hot water is the fastest way to wear out your pipes. In fact 90% of all pinhole leaks and slab leaks happen in hot water lines for the following reasons:

1. Chemicals in water are corrosive

2. Chemicals in water when heated are even more corrosive

3. Chemicals in water when heated and circulated through copper pipes that bend around corners and turn up walls and curve around electrical conduit and sewer pipes and are reduced in size as water passes through a building is extremely corrosive

In order to understand the solution it is helpful to know what causes the problem. With a little insight into how domestic hot water recirculation lines or recirc loops are built and how they work we can see that the answer is as easy as flipping a switch.

Apartments, hotels and larger homes have recirc loops designed to move hot water to the farthest fixture from the boiler or water heater in a reasonable amount of time. Each loop has a pump pushing water through a copper pipe 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Each loop has multiple joints and fittings that obstruct the flow of water. Gate or ball valves and flapper checks and expansion tanks and whatever else the plumber had on his truck the day he built the line create disturbances in the flow path.

Water likes to flow in a nice straight line with no obstructions. This is called laminar flow - nice and smooth. Anything in the flow path can disrupt the flow and cause an eddy to form. Eddies are the bad boys, the unwanted visitor, the black sheep of the family.

Create a little friction, add in some turbulence and the next thing you know you have a leak.

As your reading this please keep in mind there are things you can do to reduce or even eliminate leaks. They are relatively inexpensive and I'll tell you what they are in a minute.

When water pipes leak many things can happen - none of which are any good. Pinhole and slab leaks, mold, wasted water, wasted energy, property damage, resident/guest complaints and inconvenience all mean one thing.

It cost you time and money.

The only question left is how much? Please refer to Table 1 for an idea of how much a leak can cost.

Table 1: The Cost of a Leak

1 $200 You caught the leak early and it wasn't buried in a wall or under a slab

2 $1,000 The leak was in a wall and you caught it early and it was relatively accessible after tearing out some drywall

3 $2,000 Same as above except you didn't catch it early and mold and light structural damage had occurred

4 $10,000 The leak was underneath a concrete slab but you were able to pinpoint the exact location

5 $20,000 Same as above except you had to chase the leak into another rooms

6 $100,000 + The leak went unnoticed until someone got sick and you got sued

So there is the doom and gloom. What's the solution?

Good question. The answer is there are a number of things you can do. As you go through my list keep in mind that people only use hot water 15% to 20% of the time (based on a study by the California Energy Commission).

First, check your water pressure. 40 psi is high enough for most 1 or 2 story buildings. Be sure to check it in several places to find the lowest pressure in the building. Typically that would be the point furthest from the water meter. If you don't have a pressure regulator, put one in.

When implementing this strategy do it in stages. Drop the pressure by 5 psi at a time and wait to see if you have any complaints. Shower heads and aerators already restrict flow to 2.5 gpm or less. Newer fixtures like the Evolve line of low flow shower heads have pressure compensating technology built into them and work just as well at low pressure as they do at high pressure.

Second, turn off the pump when no one is using hot water. That's right. I said turn off the pump. As I mentioned earlier people only use hot water 15% to 20% of the time. The pump only needs to be on when people need water.

There are 3 methods of implementing this strategy:

1. The Manual Method

2. The Guessing Method

3. The Automated Method

Manual Method

Have someone go to the switch and turn on the pump when you need hot water and turn it off when you are done. Might be practical for a single family home (certainly not convenient) but impossible in an apartment or hotel.

The Guessing Method

Plug your pump into a timer and guess when hot water will be needed. This may be a practical solution if the number of people living in the house or apartment or with a limited number of guests in a hotel and everyone has the same predictable need for hot water. Unfortunately when hot water is needed during an off period the timer gets disabled and never turned back on.

The Automated Method

Think about your recirculation line as a closed loop. When there is no demand for hot water, no water enters or leaves the system. When a hot water faucet is turned on there is a "leak" in the system.

When water leaves the system more water is added from the city water line through a cold water make-up line (this is the technical name for the copper pipe that brings cold water to your water heater).

If a flow sensor is placed in the cold water make-up line, any indication of water movement would mean someone is using hot water.

If the sensor sensed a demand (i.e., someone turned on a hot water faucet) it could turn on the pump. The demand would be met and the pump could be turned off automatically when the demand ended.

That is precisely how an On-Demand Intelligent Pump Controller works. The pump is only on when there is a demand.

As it turns out, there are many benefits to automating your recirc pumps operation:

Drastically reduces pinhole leaks and slab leaks - if the hot water is not moving, it is much less corrosive

Energy is conserved - since people only use hot water 15% to 20% of the time, the pump will be off 80% to 85% of the time. That means the recirculation line isn't full of hot water and no energy is being lost. California Energy Commission studies indicate 37% less energy is consumed when an On-Demand Controller is installed.

Note: A sufficiently high speed pump is required (2,200 rpm or faster) to implement this strategy. If you have a high speed pump you will only need an On-Demand Controller. If not you will need a full system including a high speed pump.

In conclusion, cut your risks, lower your losses, reduce your energy bill and extend the life of you pipes and water heater or boiler by turning off you recirc pump with an On-Demand Intelligent Pump Controller.

Contact me directly at the email address below to find out if this solution will work for you or what other options you might have. To purchase the On-Demand Intelligent Pump Controller click on the link below.

Do it now and sleep better tonight knowing that one of your biggest headaches just got cured.

For information on the On-Demand Intelligent Pump Controller go to http://www.SavesYouEnergy.com

Mark Franklin is CEO of Saves You Energy, LLC a manufacturer and retailer of water and energy conservation products. As a civil engineer Mr. Franklin was involved in the design of multi-family and commercial projects worth in excess of $100 million

Mr. Franklin has worked with companies ranging from the US Navy to Embassy Suites and Biltmore Hotels to Stanford Student Housing. Pinnacle Properties, United Development Group and ConAm are among the apartment ownership and management companies that have used his products. School Districts like the Blue Valley School District in Kansas and ESCOs such as Johnson Controls have utilized his technologies to reduce energy consumption

Mr. Franklin can be reached at mark@SavesYouEnergy.com or visit his company's web site at http://www.SavesYouEnergy.com

Wood Post In Dirt

Installing Solar Panels For Your Home - House Remodeling Ideas

When it comes to installing solar panels for your home, many of my readers have asked if they should engage professional installers or go the DIY route. In this short article, I'm going to lay it out for you so that you can make an informed decision on which way to go - professional or DIY.

Read on!

Professional Installation

If you look through your local directory or the internet, you should be able to find a good number of companies that provide professional installation for a fee. The installer will first check whether your home is suitable for installation. This usually means a south-facing roof and an area with little tree cover. The company will then take you through the pros and cons of the system and at the end of it, you'll know the appropriate installation system for your home and the cost.

Talking about costs...professional installation doesn't come cheap. An average home solar panel installation costs about $26,000....and that's a hefty investment!

So what does this mean for the average home owner?

Assuming you're paying 15 cents per kilowatt for electricity. At a cost increase of 10% a year, it will take a long 10 years for your power bill savings to offset the solar panel costs! If the power charges are less or if you take out a loan to pay for the solar panel system, well, the payback time just takes longer!

DIY Installation

If you think installing solar panels on your own is a daunting task, rest easy. With the recent U.S. government push on home renewable energy, we're now seeing companies producing step-by-step instructional guides that take you through the entire process. Most of these packages are inexpensive (under $50) and come with videos so that you can learn exactly how assembly and installation is done. Nothing is left to the imagination.

The important thing to installing solar panels is to find the right guide that is best suited for your needs. These guides will also recommend where you can get the parts on the cheap. So all in all, you're looking at about $200 to get your very own solar panel system up and running.

Technical support is usually just a phone call or email away, so that you can rest easy if you're stuck and need assistance.

The best thing about building your own DIY solar panels is that you can start small and later scale up the system to power more appliances at home. You can even go completely off-grid and take the power companies out of the equation! What's more, they will even buy excess electricity that you generate each month. And that's extra cash you could use!

So, Which Way To Go?

It all boils down to this. If you've deep pockets and want a hassle-free installation, get it professionally installed. But remember, it can take you decades for your investment to pay off.

On the other hand, if you're one who can follow instructions and don't mind a little elbow grease, then go the DIY route. For a low initial outlay of $200, you can easily recover your investment in a few months...instead of years!

Installing solar panels for your home can be a fun weekend project for you and your family. More importantly, you will go green and cut your monthly energy bills for good!

Want to build and install your own solar panels but don't know where to start?

Fret not! Many people just like you have successfully built these on their own to DRASTICALLY cut their monthly electricity consumption. They are already shaving $1000s off their energy bills every year. If you need STEP-BY-STEP guidance in installing one, I have reviewed the Best Online Guides on Homemade Solar Panels for your convenience. These highly recommended guides provide EASY-TO-FOLLOW instructions that will help you save money in no time.

Dave Keller is an Renewable Energy Specialist who takes pride in helping the average consumer save on their energy bills using simple DIY devices... and give power companies a run for their money! For a candid review of the best-selling guides, go to his website at http://www.HomeSolarPanels4u.com now.

Build Or Remodel - Constuction Tips

There are three possible scenarios involved in that question:

1. Stay where you are and renovate

2. Move to an existing house and renovate

3. Build a new house for you to move into

There are numerous considerations, not the least of which is how you feel about your existing location. That word - LOCATION - should be your primary focus. Do you prefer to remain where you are, or not? Is staying where you are an option, or are you forced to relocate due to a job change, or other issues?

If you wish to stay where you are, there's no reason to read this article. Remodeling and/or expanding the place where you now live is the least expensive alternative - by far.
Your aggravation levels will increase during the construction, but they will do that with either of the other choices as well. If it gets to be too much, you can move to a motel for 2 months, eat dinner out every night, and still come out cheaper than either option 2 or option 3. If you want to be in your present home, case closed.

So let's assume you have to move, and we'll concentrate on option 2 vs. option 3. There are two important aspects of this topic which apply to both.
In both cases you have to research the property with the building department to make sure you will be able to do what you wish. Verify zoning, lot size restrictions, and access to utilities.
You will have unknown costs (moving, insurance, taxes, financing costs, etc.) in either case.

Advantages of remodeling an existing house:
Fewer hidden (or unknown) costs. New homes often have impact fees, ground preparation fees, and higher permit fees than those imposed for remodeling.
Hard construction costs will be less (usually, but not always).
You can move into the house much sooner. If you have to leave your existing home quickly, you may not have the ability to wait for a new home to be built.

Advantages of building new:
Unrestricted design potential, allowing you to end up with a more modern, better insulated home, with better traffic flow than you would have in an older building. Also, older homes have less closet/storage space than new ones.
Your long term energy costs will be lower because all of your equipment will be running more efficiently.
Less disruption to family routine. While construction is happening, you're still living in your present house. Then you move into a finished product (possibly with some decorative items to complete).

I'm sure you noticed that I haven't listed costs in either list. The determining factor is going to be the extent of the renovation to the existing building. Depending upon the condition of the house, age, building codes and other factors, it can actually be more costly to remodel than to build new.

In either case, allow an extra 20% in your budget over and above any quoted costs you've obtained. 10% is for upgrades that you decide upon after initial pricing. The other 10% is for the rising costs of material and labor. If the price of oil goes through the roof again, 10% might not be enough.

If the older home was built between 1950 and 1978, there might be issues having to do with asbestos and lead paint. Make sure you get a professional inspection performed. You may also be required to bring the plumbing and electrical systems up to date.

In conclusion, renovating a home might be very rewarding, as well as the cheaper alternative. However, you have to do your homework before making the commitment, in order to insure that you're not stepping into a money pit. Every situation is different. Your decision will probably come down to what your sixth sense tells you. Regardless of how you choose, anticipate that moving into a new home will take more time and more money than expected.

Charles Gueli

Home Helper

http://www.continuous-home-improvement-help.com

Luck is What Happens When Preparation Meets Opportunity

You must be ready when an opportunity comes before you, opportunity often comes in the form of work and that's why most people seem to miss it. Most people are too busy looking for the easy path through life. They seem to lay around waiting for the opportunity of a lifetime,... to simply fall at your feet.

Why would you want to spend so much time complaining about something, or someone? Other people can help you along the way, if you let them, but it's up to you, ultimately, to become the most you can possibly be. I have had plenty of opportunities in my life and have took advantage of some, while letting most of them pass by.

I'm no different than most people but now seem to be aware of my surrounding opportunities, all the time.

How many times do you wish for an opportunity to come along? It's probably one that you missed already, at some point during your life. Are you going to be prepared for the next opportunity when it comes along? These opportunities seem to repeat themselves throughout our lives and if we're not in the right state of mind, we often overlook them and let them pass by, time and time again.

You need to prepare yourself in advance for the next opportunity. If you are prepared and have your eyes open, you will be able to see the next opportunity that comes your way. Preparation will increase your chances for success and good fortune always.

Opportunities come in all shapes and sizes. Be on the lookout, when you're walking to the grocery store, taking a break at work, reading the newspaper, talking to your neighbor, walking down the street or even while you are sitting alone, letting your mind wander away. Your chances for success could come while your in your quiet places, or relaxing. Be prepared.

Greg Vanden Berge is a published author, internet marketing expert, motivational inspiration to millions of people all over the world and is sharing some of his wisdom with experts in the fields of writing,marketing, and personal development.

Greg is currently working on a video library filled with great movies on a wide array of topics, like religion, self help and spiritual changes in the world. His views on religious freedom are slowly changing the way people think about institutional religion.

Concrete Basics - Home Repair Advice

Concrete is the most commonly used man made building supply on Earth. Six billion cubic meters are manufactured a year, in a $35 billion industry. This means there are pretty good odds that you'll eventually do something with, or be around something with concrete.

Weather and climate will affect your concrete. It is not wise to pour your cement in conditions that involve a drop below freezing before the cement cures, as this will prevent the cement from reaching its maximum strength. Likewise, if the humidity is too low, the surface of the cement can crack and produce weaknesses for weather to attack. All concrete will eventually crack to some extent, though this can be minimized by good design and selection of good reinforcement where needed. This does not mean concrete is a bad choice, as concrete structures have lasted thousands of years.

Concrete is used as a fire barrier, but while it doesn't burn, it can be damaged by heat. Once the temperature reaches or exceeds 300 degrees, the concrete is considered unsafe, and this can usually be detected by a pink, light gray or yellow-brown color. Discolored concrete should be replaced. For handyman style use, bagged cement is perfectly reasonable, and for convenience, there are pre-mixed bags with aggregate already mixed, just requiring water. These are very handy for small jobs such as setting a pole into the ground for a doggy chain or clothesline. This is usually too expensive for large jobs.

Pouring concrete, such as a sidewalk, requires several steps. First, figure out how much you need. This is determined by measuring the surface area and thickness to determine how many cubic yards you need, and this will tell you whether you can mix it yourself, or need to have it delivered. Then you build your forms. This probably involves digging, and laying 2"x4" boards to hold the edges of the concrete. 2"x2" boards should be used to hold those in place, pounding them deep enough that the weight of the concrete won't push the boards out of place.

You will almost always want to lay reinforcing material in the bottom, such as metal fencing materials. Ensure that you have everything square and at the proper level, as after you pour, it will be too late. Then ensure that all of the pieces are well secured with nails and clamps. Spray the site with later lightly, and pour. Tamp the concrete down, especially on the edges, and level the concrete.

Once it has set enough to support a 2"x8" board, use one as a straight edge to cut contraction joints. These should be every four to six feet. For sidewalks or narrow areas, this is sufficient, but for patios these should go in both directions. A pair of beveled clapboards can be used. Coat them with motor oil and place a nail into one. Insert them into joints on large concrete structures. As the concrete begins to set, the nail is used to remove one of the boards, and the other is hidden inside, leaving room for the concrete to expand or contract with the weather.

There are a variety of ways to surface the concrete, but remember that you must select one that will allow water to drain off of the concrete, as standing water is a major cause of damage to concrete. After you surface the concrete, it must be wetted down every 12 hours for the next three days, and protected from sunlight while it cures. Visit http://www.tipsonconcrete.com for additional tips.

For more information & a free newsletter visit our blog at http://myhomeimprovementtips.com.

Custom Homes Can Be the Perfect Choice For You

Are you looking to buy or build a custom home? Custom homes are a great way to express one's personal tastes. The sky is the limit for custom home design.

Most people do not have the skills to construct the blueprints needed for a custom home. Locate an architect who understands your custom home vision. The architect has the ability to take a picture of the home you dream of and design a set of blueprints from which to build. The architect will also make certain the custom home will meet the building code requirements in your area.

Once your design is set, began to search for building contractors. Place requests for bids throughout several reputable companies. Once you receive these bids, you can begin to negotiate to receive the best deal. Don't limit yourself to two or three bids. Costs can very greatly between builders. Be very careful to use a reputable builder who listens to your ideas. A builder that is easier to work with will make the building project less stressful.

Shop around for the best deals on building lots and building materials. The internet is a great place to gain knowledge about the costs associated with building a custom home. Ideas for amenities and design attributes can be found in custom home building informational books, magazines and websites. Using this information to complete your custom home design will allow many more options not initially apparent to you.

Shop around for the best deals on interior building items, such as carpet, tile, appliances, and windows. You can locate some of the best deals through recommendations from family and friends. Many stores will offer to beat the best price you can locate in order to gain your business. Keep track of items you really like, but aren't willing to purchase because of the costs. You may find the item at a reasonable price online or through a building contractor who may have the right connections.

Your custom home is the one of the most important investments you can make. Taking the time to research and identify great contractors and products will result in a custom home you will be proud of, not only for the finished product, but also because of the savings in your pocket.

Search Home Builders and new homes right now!

Getting Your Electrical Needs Resolved - Home Contractor Advice

If you ever have any questions about how you are going to get things done it is very important that you start with a good electrical contractor but even the most advanced contractor simply cannot resolve all of your issues if you are not certain what needs to be done. You absolutely have to take some time and really look at all of your options. This means that most people are going to have to carefully analyze their needs and decide specifically what they would like completed.

If you are only wanting a few lights installed then obviously the scope of the project is quite simple. However, if you are looking to have a massive amount of electrical work done then obviously a much larger amount of time and effort into planning will be needed. The larger the job, the more thoroughly you need to determine expectations. While many electricians can help guide you in understanding what needs to be done, you need to know what your final result should be in order to actually get the results that you are truly after.

You might discover that your project is actually much simpler than you imagined as well. This is where thinking through your exact needs and talking carefully to the electrician that you are considering is important. To ensure that you really are getting the correct story on the scope you should always feel free to talk to several different electricians to make certain that your getting everything resolved quickly without missing any important details.

With all of the complications that can arise during electrical work it is always a good idea to leave yourself some extra time as well. Many people do not realize just how hectic and stressful things can really get. In order to ensure that you do not cut yourself short you should ask for estimates of time from the electricians that you speak with as well. This will help you to budget your time, and also schedule some additional time in the event of a problem.

Covering all of the small details that are necessary in an electrical project can be really easy to do, but it will require discussing your needs with an electrician that is smart, rather than one that is just simply ignoring your requests. A bit of time devoted to discussing your issues thoroughly is very important because it will ensure that the electrician is aware of what you need, and you are very much aware of what you will be receiving also.

Murphy Family Electrical Services has electricians serving Northern VA. electrician Alexandria, VA electrician Fairfax vaCentreville, Potomac Falls, Northern Virginia

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First Steps in Planning a Finished Basement

Like many homeowners, you might be thinking about adding living space by finishing your basement.

Before you go too far in planning how you will use all of that extra space, there are some steps you will need to take to be certain that space will be healthy for your family. In fact, many of the first steps in planning a finished basement are good to protect the health of your family whether you finish your basement or not.

The first steps in planning a finished basement are these:

1. Inspect for signs of dampness. Look for standing water anywhere in your basement, especially in corners and below windows. Also look for signs of mold or mildew. Mold and mildew can grow on walls, floor, windows, and on the wood beams and framing for the floor above the basement. Mold and mildew inside your home can cause respiratory problems for your family, even if they don't have allergies or asthma. Basement dampness can also damage hardwood floors above, cause warping and buckling of framing boards, cause odors and even increase your heating and cooling costs.

2. Determine the cause of any dampness and correct the problem. Water or dampness in a basement can be the result of cracks in walls or floor, leaking windows, inadequate drainage below the basement and inadequate removal of water around the foundation. Drainage of rainwater is relatively easy to fix, and making sure downspouts are correctly placed and extend far enough away from the house is important both to have a dry basement and to protect the footers beneath your basement. Be sure to check the areas where floor and walls meet.

3. Correct any foundation problems. When you inspect, keep a sharp eye out for large and uneven cracks in walls or floor. These could indicate a foundation problem. You will need to have this fixed before you finish your basement.

4. Have your basement inspected by a professional before you start construction. Particularly if there are cracks in your basement floor or walls, it is a good idea to have a professional check your basement for potentially harmful leaks. You should also have the basement checked for Radon and other gases that could be collecting under your basement. While many homes today are built with drainage systems under the basements, this might not be the case in your locality. A professional can advise you about what you need to do to protect your family when you plan to use your basement for living space.

5. Check local building codes for specific things you must do before you start remodeling. For example, some localities require a set number of windows and doors for emergency escape. There might also be specifications about stairs and ceiling height. Remember that the most important part of finishing your basement is protecting the health and safety of your family.

6. Make plans to install appropriate vapor barriers and adequate insulation. You will probably want to install a vapor barrier of some sort when insulating exterior walls and before installing floor covering. This prevents moisture from penetrating porous concrete. There are floor mat products and insulation with attached vapor barrier that can be used for this purpose.

7. If you have any appliances in the basement that use water, check pipes and hoses for leaks. It will be worth the time and trouble to check bathroom pipes, washing machine hoses and the like to be certain there are no leaks before you start construction. Also check for leaks around your water heater and where pipes penetrate walls.

By taking these first steps in finishing a basement you can be assured that your new living space will be safe for your family and will protect your investment in your home.

Copyright 2008 by ABCD Publishing

Dan Fritschen, the author of this article, is the founder of the websites http://www.remodelormove.com and http://www.remodelestimates.com He is the author of three books on home remodeling.

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Benefits of DIY Wireless Home Security

A DIY wireless home security system is the type of home security system that does not require wires and cables to work. This type of system offers a lot of benefits. All you need is time and a little elbow grease and you'll have 24-hour protection from burglaries, break-ins and vandalisms.

Benefits:

1. Saves you a lot of money

This can save you a lot of money because you will not need to hire a professional to perform the installation for you. Most of the time, some companies will jack up the prices of the equipment. So if you purchase your own materials, you can decide for yourself how much you will pay for them.

2. You will know how everything works

When you decide to get a DIY wireless home security system, you will install it yourself. Since you are doing the installation, you will get to know the system intimately. You will have to read the instructions before installation and that will help you figure out the ins and outs of the system.

3. Only you and your family know the design of the security system

Hiring a professional team to design and install the security system will render your system vulnerable to them. If you install the system yourself, only you and other residents in your household will know how the system is designed. This reduces the number of people who can disable the system.

4. Easy to install

The instructions of DIY security systems are relatively simple. And if you opt for the wireless version, this will make your job a whole lot easier. You don't have to deal with tangled wires and the problem of concealing them.

5. Safety for your home and all your family members

Wireless systems are more difficult to spot. So if you do end up with burglars, they will not be able to find the system so they can disable it. If motion sensors are visible, then they can figure out a way to work around them.

Discover more about wireless home security. Get free tips, advise and useful information on DIY wireless home security.

Moisture Against Gravity Destroy

Detecting Moisture Intrusion With Thermal Imaging

What is the difference between Moisture Intrusion and Water Damage?

Many homes and buildings have moisture intrusion problems for a long time without knowing it. Once a moisture problem is noticeable to the naked eye it has become water damage and can be expensive to repair.

Unseen leaks can hide behind ceilings, walls or flooring for some time before becoming visible on the interior surface. These moisture Intrusions are developing mold, rotting framing members and generally degrading the building materials long before they are visible on the outer surface.

A drywall ceiling or wall can hide moisture for a very long time before showing through to the finished surface as a stain or eventually collapsing. In the meantime the insulation is losing its R value and potentially growing fungus in the paper backing. The drywall is degrading, losing strength and also growing fungus. Framing members will degrade much more slowly but can also fail and will grow fungus. The electric wiring and fixtures can develop even more serious problems and cause immediate danger by shorting out or starting a fire. In some flooring materials moisture intrusions will usually show up sooner as we will notice a musty smell from carpeting or see warping of hardwood floors. Vinyl and tile floors can hide moisture problems longer, like the wall and ceiling surfaces.

Infrared thermal imaging can locate Moisture Intrusion problems behind the surface without destructive testing. A Infrared camera can "see" the thermal signature of water and damaged insulation areas through the walls and ceilings. A Trained Certified Thermographer can determine problem areas in most building materials and locate the source of the problem so that it can be prevented from recurring and properly repaired.

Thermal scanning can also be invaluable in determining the success of repair and dry out procedures. We can make sure all moisture was eliminated and insulation was replaced even after the repairs are completed.

Don't let hidden moisture become a mold or major water damage repair!

Copyright 2008 - American Infrared Consultants, LLC - All Rights Reserved

Visit our web site for more information on Infrared Thermography. We have sample photos, videos and general information on many aspects of Thermography.

http://americaninfraredconsultants.com

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Dog Creates Remodeling Nightmare

How many homeowners normally leave their dog in the backyard or they have full time access to the backyard through a doggie door. You're probably wondering how can a little dog create a remodeling nightmare for any contractor.

This wasn't the case this dog was a large Labrador retriever and tore up everything in the backyard constantly. The house remodel we were working on was a two story room addition over a single story house. This job lasted around six months and the dog was a daily reminder of how much attention a large dog actually needs.

Let's start with the first item of value the dog actually destroyed. It was my favorite tool bags of course that I have taken care of for over five years and deeply appreciated the fact that they were broke in just the way I wanted them to be. Kind of like a baseball mitt that doesn't quite fit right because of how stiff it is until you break it in.

While the homeowner of course apologized and never even offered to replace them. Oh but after that he did mention never to leave anything lying around in the backyard. Lesson learned of course and never forgotten. Well to make a long story short this large dog could chew up tools, lumber, plumbing pipes, electrical wire and was even able to destroyed the plywood fencing we would use to keep him away.

I'm going to stop right there with the remodeling nightmare created from this dog in hopes that other contractors can learn from my valuable lesson. As a contractor you should never assume that a homeowner will replace any damaged or broken tools and materials.

As a homeowner with a dog reading this article, think about having a place to enclose the dog if necessary while remodeling work is done on your home.

I love being around dogs and other animals but sometimes a problem like this can make life extremely miserable for both parties.

Greg Vanden Berge has been building and remodeling for over 30 years and his information has proven valuable to most contractors and homeowners all over the world. He usually tries to write at least two articles a day on home improvement or remodeling problems.

Greg is in the process right now of working on a home inspection website that will revolutionize the home inspection business. He is also working on a book to help homeowners and contractors as well as other home related professions in dealing with the home inspection process.

You can visit the home inspection website currently under construction at Home Inspection Help

Drywall Ceilings Water Damage

Stair Building Video For Decks

Stair building tips for installing lights and decking, handrail tips and some deck advice.

For more helpful home improvement information visit: http://www.gregvan.com

Stair Building Tips

Cellulous Attic Insulation

New Versus Old Lumber - Structural Failure

During my 30 years of remodeling and building new homes. I have ran across quite a bit of structural framing failures. I find myself answering this question a lot when explaining to a homeowner about the structural failure I am repairing on their home, "Why Didn't They Use Better Lumber" or " Why Didn't They Use Larger Lumber." I really have a hard time answering these questions because I honestly don't know the answer.

However I can try to use some logic and reason to give these people an answer that seems to make sense to both of us. Why didn't they use better lumber, quite simply because, with most older homes that were built before the 1970s they actually do have better lumber. Now you're probably thinking how can these homes have better lumber when the lumber is old versus the new lumber used in a brand new house.

Most of the structural repairs I have made over the years has nothing to do with the lumber and whether it was new or old. A large number of these repairs were caused by neglect and poor maintenance.

The lumber in most older houses are from older growth trees. Some of these trees were extremely large and only the premium parts of the trees were used. The premium lumber is cut farthest away from the center of the tree. Now the larger the tree it makes sense that there will be more premium lumber.

A large majority of the newer lumber used in home construction comes from trees about 6 inches in diameter. Now you're probably wondering how can they cut a 2 x 8 piece of lumber out of a 6 inch tree. Of course they cannot, the larger lumber comes from larger trees.

Most 2 x 4's that are less than 8 foot long can be cut from these trees. This scrap or waste that comes from cutting these two by fours will now go into engineered building materials like particleboard, oriented strand board and engineered beams. Another name for an engineered been would be a paralam.

I hope you're starting to get the picture now when it comes to using new or old lumber. There are companies that are going into old logging rivers and retrieving old growth lumber. These were logs that sank to the bottom of the river's and were never retrieved because it was too costly.

The old growth lumber is quite expensive. Who's to say what problems we will happen in the future from the newer products created with modern day technology. When it comes to building houses it is not an exact science and as contractors we have been repairing the damage from poor engineering for years.

When I use the word poor engineering I am not pointing fingers at engineers. We now have more knowledge about home construction then we had years ago.

New versus old lumber, who wins the battle. Only time will tell.

Greg Vanden Berge is working on the internet to promote the education for creating simple to follow guides and home building books to help professional building contractors as well as the weekend warriors. He is currently working on more building and Remodeling Library and adding useful content to help solve problems created by the lack of construction knowledge in the building industry.

Visit us and get more information on building and remodeling your homes and Structural Repairs.

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How to Improve a Bathroom to Help Sell a Home

It is no surprise that the current economy has affected virtually every aspect of our daily lives. Whether it's eliminating our daily coffee break or altogether skipping this year's family vacation, we are all pinching pennies here and there to provide for our family and remain financially stable. While the real estate market, too, has been plummeting, there are still ways to increase your home's value without breaking your budget or dipping into savings. By renovating your bathroom (whether master bathroom or even your guest bathroom), you can improve your home but functionally and financially almost overnight.

Get Organized

In order to properly begin any do it yourself home renovation project, you need to be organized. Be prepared for any inconveniences that may arise at any step of this process. No matter how large or small your projects may be (even if you are only planning on replacing cabinet door knobs), it is better to be ready. Create an area of space that you and your family members will utilize while your bathroom is undergoing this makeover. Typically, using the kitchen sink to brush teeth or wash hands works well. However, if you are going to be replacing a shower stall or toilet, be sure there is a "back up" for the family to use. Does your home lack a back up option? Ask a neighbor.

While you are already forced to deal with space issues, evaluate the space currently available in your bathroom. Oftentimes, sinks and shower stalls are crowded with extraneous almost-empty bottles that look unsightly and unpleasant (especially if they are growing mold). An easy solution it to by inexpensive plastic or wire metal containers or free standing organizers that keep each member of your family's individual products neatly arranged and out of the way.

Get the Kids Involved

Most home or apartment master bathrooms are well, for the masters of the abode. It might be time to add a few kid-friendly options, even if you're only planning to renovate in order to re-sell. Chances are your children might have a few unique ideas that would appeal to another family as well. Take the time to listen to them! Their vantage point is (typically) lower and they might spot something you'd otherwise miss- like what bathroom cabinet knobs need to be replaced and which cabinets need locks.

Pamper Yourself

We love instant gratification. Redesigning your bathroom is the perfect opportunity to include a few luxuries that you'd otherwise skip. While heated tile flooring and a steam shower may be a bit over your budget, there are still soothing solutions for every need. If you've always wanted a Jacuzzi, opt instead for a moveable shower head and stronger water pressure will work similarly. For music lovers, purchase a cd player that's waterproof. Finally, for those that dislike cold, enjoy wrapping yourself in a pre-heated towel by installing heated towel racks with easy-to-reach knobs and pulls.

Consider that by adding a few elegant, creature comfort upgrades to your bathroom, you are making a long term investment for your home. You certainly are not alone in the fact that people love to be pampered; in the future, by having a state-of-the-art master bathroom, you'll probably up the asking price for your home.

Sweat the Small Stuff

When redesigning your bathroom, it is easy to overlook the smaller aspects of your bathroom. So you may have already purchased new cabinets and storage space, but you might have forgotten to replace the door handles. When you think you have finished your renovations, be sure to do a last run through check list of what you wanted to accomplish. Including ornate items, such as French country cabinet knobs or an antique soap dish, you will enhance the overall charm of your bathroom.

Tori works for Your Home Supply (YHS) the definitive website for home improvement tools, and gardening supplies. Your Home Supply offers a wide range of products, like towel racks, to help customers improve their bathrooms and increase the value of their homes. Visit them now at http://www.YourHomeSupply.com

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Inerrancy of the Bible - Are There Mistakes in the Bible

What does the word inerrancy main? Inerrancy would refer to text that is accurate and totally free of any errors or without any mistakes. Does this sound like any book that you have ever read or have knowledge of. Maybe there is a one sentence book that could fall into this category.

Most books however and even this article has mistakes. If I made a decision to base my life, my entire life and that of my children and grandchildren, I would want to make sure that it was accurate as possible.

Is the Bible, 100%, 90%, or even 50% accurate. Are these stories that were written by people many years ago and the lessons have been helpful but now need to be rewritten.

Does the Bible actually contain the will of God? Some scholars believe that certain sections of the Bible meet this criteria while others do not. How can these people judge if they are not God and how can we believe in this stuff is not true.

If the Bible was inspired by God but written by men, this could actually mean that God had complete control over writing the Bible or does this mean that the man wrote the Bible with gods inspiration. I'm inspired by God daily and often write about it, but don't seem to have enough followers to make it into the biblical Hall of Fame. I'm writing with inspired beliefs right now.

If there are errors in the Bible, how extensive or how many errors are there actually. There are actual stories that can be documented as historical facts. This doesn't mean the rest of the Bible is factual, nor does it mean it is historically inaccurate.

The Bible has some errors in it and some facts that we can prove but leaves us with the question, is this a book from the Creator of the universe or a book written by men, to make us believe, it was written by God and if so why are we still believe being in it. Why do some people read this book and other religious text daily? What motivates them to read holy Scripture regularly but doesn't seem to allow them enough time to find out if they are reading accurate information.

The biggest problem I have with the inerrancy of the Bible is the fact that most people tend to ignore certain truths and cling to their childhood beliefs about religion. If this is not the way or the truth, I would want to start looking for it, instead of following someone else's dreams or religious doctrine.

Greg Vanden Berge is a published author, internet marketing expert, motivational inspiration to millions of people all over the world and is sharing some of his wisdom with experts in the fields of writing,marketing, and personal development.

Greg is currently working on a video library filled with great movies on a wide array of topics, like religion, self help and spiritual changes in the world. His views on religious freedom are slowly changing the way people think about institutional religion. Religious Education And Fear

Sometimes Your The Problem

Why Do You Need to Repair a Bad Credit Report?

For every major purchase you will make in your life your credit score will come into play. It is extremely important to have the best credit score and the cleanest credit report possible. There are many people who have blemishes on their credit report. Maybe you are one of them and you would like to know what you can do to change that.

You are not completely left alone in your efforts to improve your credit report. There are agencies out there that will work with you to help repair your credit report.

A good credit repair service is concerned not only with your past credit but what you credit you build in the future. They will contact your creditors to try to eliminate some of the bad reports made on your credit. They will also help you get back on track with your creditors so that you can begin to build good credit from now on.

It doesn't matter if you find a non-profit organization or a service that requires payments, the will all work with you every step of the way helping you repair your credit. They will give you all the information you need to improve your credit report.

Who Should You Turn To?

The internet and television is literally inundated with advertisements for credit repair services. It is not difficult to find a service, but your goal is to find a good service. You don't want to take the first one that comes along and makes grand promises of what they can do. Do your homework and find out which companies really have a reputation for providing a good service and can really help you.

If a company makes you a lot of promises before they even begin to look at your case there is reason for doubt. The reason is because what they are able to do is at contingent on what how much your creditors are willing to negotiate and what they are willing to accept. You need to be realistic about what can be done to repair your credit and you want a company that is going to be realistic as well. If you find a company that is honest about what your options are and what they will try to do for you then you may have found the company you want working with you to repair your credit.

Are you tired of struggling to keep up with your credit card debt? Get some simple credit card tips on the Debtopedia website. Get a free copy of my report "Secrets Of Credit Card Debt" at http://www.debtopedia.com

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The Miracle of Design

DECORATING WITH SYMBOLS

Throughout history faith, religious beliefs and spiritual concepts have been mistrusted. In many groups, religions and sectors around the world people where unable to profess their faith openly and therefore used symbols in statues, artwork and the likes to serve as a visual reminder of their faith.

Symbols can be used today much in the same way. While beliefs are in the most part no longer persecuted, beliefs can be strengthened through intention. Intention of mind and thoughts. So what does this have to do with miracles? In order to allow the beauty of miracles to surround us we must ensure we keep an open heart, mind and spirit. We must allow ourselves to accept that we are worthy of those miracles and they are within our reach every minute of every day. Symbols can be used to strengthen your resolve and your faith. Symbols can remind you of how blessed you already are and of how deserving you are to be surrounded by miracles.

In Feng Shui symbols are used to strengthen intention and positive energies in areas that have been identified as important sectors for personal growth and the balancing of the energetic rhythms that surround your home.

So where and what type of symbols will help you live in a miraculous state? The answer is different for each and every one of us. Some of us love the beauty and consistency of ancient religious symbols:

The Cross in Christianity, The Menorah in Judaism, The Dharma Wheel in Buddhism, The OM in Hinduism, The Palm in Jainism, The Khanda in Sikh, or the Nine Pointed Star in Baha"i.

For some symbols of angels, fairies and sparkle dust or fat happy Buddha conjures up the miraculous, while for others portraits of their families are the only reminder they need of the miracles in their lives.

Whatever the symbol, place them around your home or office so that each time you look at them they bring joy, bathe you in light and happiness and strengthen your intention to believe in the miraculous that surrounds you!

2008 Fay Chapple

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Fay Chapple is an International Feng Shui Expert, award winning Interior Decorator and Life Coach, and is Principal of the award winning Home & Life Design Firm Blue Avalon.

Blue Avalon specializes in Interior Decorating, Feng Shui and Abundant Living. Blue Avalon is the publisher of The Blue Avalon Journal, a monthly e-zine packed with ideas, tips and insider secrets! To subscribe log on to our site at http://www.blueavalon.com and you'll receive a bonus book, The Number One Feng Shui Secret That Will Transform Your Life!

Blue Avalon - "Harmony for your home... Balance for your life!" http://www.blueavalon.com

Tips to Find a Quality Repair Shop

Car problems prove frustrating enough, but trying to find a reliable, honest auto repair shop can really induce migraines. Surveys show that shoddy repair work remains a major customer complaint.

But repairing your car doesn't have to mean a battle. In fact, most disputes don't arise from deception, but from honest miscommunication.

Drivers can save themselves some aspirin by planning ahead and doing some research. Start by determining what kind of shop can best do the work. For instance, some shops specialize in exhaust systems, so if you have electrical problems, you might want to look elsewhere for repairs. Vehicles still under warranty usually need to be repaired at authorized dealers.

AAA offers a free public service to help find shops certified for meeting high professional standards. Repair facilities designated as AAA Approved Auto Repair have met stringent standards for personnel training, customer service, equipment and cleanliness.

In addition to checking the shops' reputation prior to certification, their customers are surveyed on an ongoing basis to ensure high customer satisfaction. AAA provides a free listing of Approved Auto Repair facilities throughout the U.S. and Canada at AAA.com/Repair.

Here are some tips to help alleviate the headache of dealing with a repair shop:

- Make an appointment. If the shop knows you are coming, it will be better prepared to accommodate you.

- Don't tell the technician what you think needs to be fixed unless it's obvious. Instead, describe the problem and its symptoms and let the technician determine what needs to be repaired.

- Always get an estimate in writing. Oral estimates can be disputed or forgotten.

- Insist that the shop call if the repair cost will exceed the estimated price.

- Read the work order before you leave the shop. Question blanket statements like "Check and correct transmission noise," or "Repair engine" - you could wind up with a new transmission or engine. Never sign a blank work order, and never tell the shop personnel to "do what's necessary" or "just fix it," unless the problem will clearly be covered under warranty.

- Take a test drive. If the car isn't running right, don't take it home.

- Ask for any parts that were replaced.

- Be sure to get a copy of the shop's warranty. All AAA Approved Auto Repair shops provide a minimum 12-month/12,000-mile parts and labor warranty.

For Further Information Please Visit: http://www.HotTips99.com

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The Benefits Of A Home Sauna

Do the cares of this world leave you stressful? Would you like to relax and refresh your body in a sauna, but the idea of going to a local sauna doesn't impress you? Maybe it is time to consider installing one in the comfort of your own home. Just imagine stepping into your sauna to unwind and relax whenever you wish.

Deciding on how you will heat your home sauna is the first step to consider. After you have decided how you will generate heat in your home sauna, the next step is to decide where you will put it. If you are going to use electric you may want it in your home. If you plan on a wood stove you may want to put it outdoors near your woodpile. If you want a steam sauna you may want to place it near a water source such as a lake, or pool.

You can install either a single person sauna or a multi sauna. There are many brands and styles like a traditional sauna or an infrared one. A traditional room is made from quality wood like cedar and is heated by a wood burning source or an electric stove.

If you think you don't have room for a sauna, you are in luck because they make portable saunas, that can be set-up and torn down with ease. These ingenious saunas require no plumbing, rewiring, or time-consuming maintenance. It sets up in minutes without tools. All you have to do is pour in water, plug into a standard plug and in minutes you're basking in your own private sauna. When you are finished all you have to do is fold up the unit for compact storage.

Master bathrooms, garages, and basements are excellent places to build an indoor sauna. If you prefer to build your sauna outside you can alter an outside structure by adding insulation, benches and a heat source or, if you feel adventurous, you can build a sauna cottage.

A saunas temperature is usually 150 degrees or more while maintaining a very low relative humidity about 10 to 20 percent. Depending on the individual you can raise the humidity by pouring water on the hot rocks. If you cannot stand the heat you can always have an infrared sauna. Infrared heaters convert light directly to heat. This heat warms the bather, keeping the surrounding air cool.

Bill is a regular contributor to Sauna Review. Find information about Sauna Heaters and Kits.

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HVAC Home Improvement Tax Credits - They're Back For 2009 - Find Out How You Qualify

HVAC home improvement tax credits are back by popular demand, or should I say, unpopular demand.In 2005, the Bush administration implemented the federal tax credit for energy efficiency.This tax credit covers a broad spectrum of home improvements, but for the sake of this writing,we are concentrating on the HVAC, home improvement tax credits that allow homeowners to take advantage of direct tax credits for replacing older inefficient heating and air conditioning systems with higher efficiency, Energy Star rated appliances.

The original 2005 program ran through and expired at the end of December, 2007.Home improvements made during 2008 were not eligible for this program, but, in light of the ever increasing economic downturn nearing the close of last year, on October 3, 2008, President Bush signed into law the "Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008."This bill extended tax credits for energy efficient Home Heating & Cooling System improvements. Tax credits for these residential products, which had expired at the end of 2007, will again be available for improvements made during 2009.

The following Tax Credits available for these HVAC improvements include:

$300- Split System Air Conditioning- 15 SEER Minimum
$300- Air Source Heat Pumps- 9HSPF or 15 SEER Minimum
$150-Gas, Oil, Propane Furnace or Hot Water Boiler- 95% AFUE Minimum
$50- Advanced Main Air Circulating Fan- < 2% furnace total energy use

What this means to you the taxpayer, by purchasing.For example, a qualifying air conditioning unit, along with a qualifying gas furnace, where the additional advanced Main Air circulating fan, which in layman's terms "variable speed drive", you would qualify for up to a $500 tax credit that you can apply to your 2009 federal income tax filing.

If you're considering upgrading you're heating and air-conditioning system, 2009 will be a great year for that, and these additional tax credits will allow you to upgrade your homes energy efficiency.It is important to note, that not all ENERGY STAR qualified homes and products qualify for a tax credit. Tax credits are available for a number of products at the highest efficiency levels, which can cost more than standard products.ENERGY STAR distinguishes energy efficient products which, although they may cost more to purchase than standard models, will pay you back in lower energy bills within a reasonable amount of time, even without a tax credit.

These tax credits are not automatic.You must submit a form that authenticates your specific qualifying brand and model numbers.Your HVAC contractor or supplier should furnish these documents.Qualifying brands and models can be found at the U.S. Government Energy Star Website.

Jay Boyd owns his own heating and air conditioning store Home Air Direct where he helps the do-it-yourselfer save money. His blog site Ask Boyd contains numerous tips and stories involving the HVAC industry.

Seven Cost Effective Ways to Improve Your Home

Home improvement can be a tricky subject because it can either require a home equity line of credit just to finish one job or it can be done on a shoestring budget and still look great. Assuming you are pushing for the latter of the two and want to get the most home improvement for every dollar put in here are seven great (cost effective) home improvement tips that are sure to increase the value of your home when you put it up for sale.

Fiber Cement Siding - Fiber cement siding is becoming one of the most popular alternatives to vinyl siding because it inherits all of the attractive features of wood siding with none of the flaws. For example, fiber cement siding is low maintenance, fire and termite resistant and holds paint color for seven to fifteen years.

Add a Wood or Composite Deck - Wood decks tend to generate a better return on investment than composite decking but you can expect wood to be higher maintenance so it's worth weighing your options on maintenance versus initial price. Either way, adding a deck to your home will give you additional square footage outside of your home and increase the value of your home among potential home buyers.

New Vinyl Windows - If you have an older home one of the most promising home improvements is in your windows. Replace drafty or aging windows with vinyl windows which are cost effective, look great and are low maintenance.

Minor Kitchen Remodel - Sometimes a home improvement project doesn't need to be a full scale military project. Updating your kitchen can be as simple as replacing the countertops with a more modern surface like granite, changing cabinets with a moderately priced new set and upgrading your appliances to newer and typically more quiet stainless steel appliances.

Attic to Bedroom Conversion - Wasted space such as an attic can be a great way to expand your home's livable space without having to build beyond the home's original footprint. One of the most popular ways to convert an attic to living space is by turning it into a bedroom or master suite with bathroom and walk-in closets.

Finish Your Basement - Similar to an attic project, basements also span the width of most of your home and offer up a tremendous amount of space to use. If you have a basement with at least seven feet of floor to ceiling height you should be able to turn the dusty, underused part of your home into a recreation room or guest suite. Every town varies on how extensive they will allow a basement renovation become so check with your local town officials and get the proper permits before starting.

Add Landscaping - Landscaping is super simple and an inexpensive way to increase your home's curb appeal dramatically. Although you can go crazy with landscaping your home will benefit most from a walkway to the front door complete with plantings on both sides, fencing in the back yard and plantings that run the length of the driveway.

Home improvement is an exciting journey that will exercise your creative freedom and, with good planning, won't cost you an arm and a leg to do. Using the list above as a guide you can improve many key parts of your home that will give you a marked increase in your home's value the day you put your home on the market.

Joshua Ferris is an associate real estate broker in Orange County NY and specializes in both Monroe New York and Newburgh New York real estate. Be sure to visit Josh's Monroe New York real estate guide and Orange County NY Real Estate website.

Audi Auto Repair Tips - Ways to Reduce the Cost of Audi Repair

Auto repair has become so expensive nowadays especially for imported cars such as the Audi. If you find yourself having trouble with your Audi, then these tips could help in reducing the cost of repairs.

Check the Warranty of Your Audi

Before bringing your Audi to the repair shop, check if it is still covered by the warranty. If it is, then you need to contact your car dealer immediately and tell about the problems of your Audi.

You can get free service and parts replacement if the Audi is still within warranty. The car dealer and the manufacturer will be the one responsible for repairs.

The Do-It-Yourself Repair

If you understand cars and knows the basics of car repair and maintenance, then it is usually best to repair the Audi by yourself. You will not pay for services which are really expensive now.

When repairing the Audi yourself, take advantage of free auto repair manuals which can be found abundantly on the web. You can find general repair manuals and model-specific car repair manuals.

There are also sites that have repair manuals exclusively for Audi cars. Specific Audi problems are listed on these sites. You only have to choose which manual to use and start repairing your Audi.

Simply download these free repair manuals. They are usually formatted in PDF or Word so you can print them easily. Just follow the steps in the manual and you can surely troubleshoot the problem bugging your Audi.

Finding Car Repair Shops

In case you don't know anything about car repairs, then don't tinker with your Audi. You might do more harm to it than good. You should bring your Audi to a reliable car repair shop and let the professionals repair your car.

It is best if you can find car repair shops that have extensive experience in repairing Audi cars. You can search for them on the Internet under the business listing and locator services of search engines.

You can also use the yellow pages to find the nearest Audi car repair shop. Call them and describe your problem. Ask them a few questions about the troubles being experienced by your Audi. They should be able to give their initial diagnosis on your car. This is an indication that you are dealing with professionals.

Repairing an Audi should not always be very expensive. There are lots of options available to you in order to reduce the cost of repairs.

Euro Motorworks has been offering uncompromising maintenance and repair for fine European automobiles since 1993. Visit Audi repair Indianapolis

Comment on Wood Deck Repairs

Do you have any ideas for building or repairing wood decks . We would love to hear from you in the comment area.

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Free Government Grants to Fix Your Home

In addition to the billions of free grant money that is being provided to help people get out of debt and avoid foreclosure, there are a number of grant programs that help individuals obtain money to help them fix their homes. Imagine not only doing some major home improvement projects or upgrading your appliances, but getting all of the expenses paid for.

That's not to say that every home improvement grant you apply for will cover all of your material costs and labor, but they very well could. Once you apply for government grants for home improvement, you'll quickly find out how much money you are approved for.

Once approved, you'll either receive a check in the mail or the money will be directly applied to help you fix your house. As long as you follow the terms of the grant, you will never have to pay this money back. Once approved, the money is yours to keep for your personal use and your own home. That means you will not only help appreciate the value of your home by repairing or improving it, but you'll get paid for it too.

As the real estate industry continues to suffer in America, this is one way that the government provides assistance to help the industry get back to a normal level and keep the housing market stable. These funds are most likely available though your local government, but there are often state grants and private foundation grants that can provide you with some of this free money to improve your home. Once you search the grant database, you'll quickly be able to see the programs you qualify for and many more. There are hundreds of government grant programs for a variety of reasons, and while not all of them are specifically for individuals, there are many that you should peak your interest.

Instantly access to the database to get your real estate grants. See how much you can qualify to receive and obtain your check in as little as 7 days just by asking for free grant money