As I just said a good handyman is often quite difficult to find because the ones that produce quality work at a price that is acceptable for the quality work they do are usually booked solid. Nevertheless, to be able to find these quality workers there are some things you need to know and look for when seeking one.

It doesn’t matter whether you only have a small repair job or you’re looking to have a sizeable makeover in an area of your home, it really does pay to hire the best handyman business available. And don’t forget when you find a top quality honest handyman service hang on to them as you will want to use them time and again.

Unfortunately many handyman businesses are known for:
- being unreliable and untrustworthy.
- asking you for cash up front then leave the work unfinished
- demanding extra money above what you agreed on
- do a shoddy job
- not responding to phone calls when you need to get them back to fix something he did

So how do you know if the guy you had look at your work or talked to is one of the good guys out there? Here are things you the homeowner should do to protect yourself and your home.
- ask for references
- are they known by the chamber of Commerce or Better Business Bureau
- are they a registered business or just working out of their truck?
- did they knock on your door or did you find them in the yellow pages (online or phone book) This is only a possible indicator.
- don’t pay for the job upfront! (maybe 15 to 20% but no more)
- don’t let them charge the materials under your name at any home improvement center or other store.
- don’t pay for the completed job until you are fully satisfied with the work.
- have someone you know who knows quality work inspect the job during and on completion before you pay.

Now several of these you may think only apply to larger jobs and in one sense they do, nevertheless they still are relevant though for a 25 dollar repair that you’re not happy with, you could just not hire them again. On the other hand having to pay for a two thousand dollar job twice because the first time was done incorrectly that is another story.

One final thing that you should keep in mind, handymen don’t all come being able to do all things high quality. They have a variety of abilities and skills that they are good at others that they are not so good at. As the homeowner it’s up to you to figure out if they’re competent to do what you need done or not.

Finding a good handyman who will provide a variety of services is a tremendous way to free up some of your time. That way you can get the things done you need to and still have time for your family and yourself.

I’m sure you have started a project and thought it was going to be easy but then when you got into it, it was anything but. I have started working on woodworking projects and then not completed them. Sometimes this is because I get sidetracked but sometimes just because the information and instructions are not clear or too complicated.

You know it doesn’t really matter at all if you’re a professional woodworker like me, a hobbyist or you’re still a rookie, there is always a place for some easy woodworking plans. It’s always much easier to finish your project if you have simple easy woodworking plans to follow. But never forget, no matter how good the source, to check the plans for accuracy before you get started.

There are quite a lot of places you can look for woodworking plans like books, and magazines. But the problem is you can spend hours looking through stacks of magazines and books and not find the project you’re looking for. Now though the internet has opened things up but it’s still hard to figure out if the project is going to be easy.

Though you can find hundreds of plans for projects on the net you need to be careful about the quality. The Internet really is a great source for many things as well as plans you can learn through reading articles about tools, different materials and how to’s as well.

A really good easy wood project plan should be written in easy to understand language without the use of big technical terms. Being easy to understand also means that it should have systematic and clear directions for that particular project. As well, sophisticated or very detailed plans though complete, may also be too detailed. They may be very good but slow you down when you are looking for just a simple project.

Working on a wood project should always be fun even though it may have some frustrating moments. For most of you it is a hobby and therefore one that is supposed to be enjoyable. That makes it even more important to make sure that the project and plan you are choosing is one that is easy for you. The biggest deal that drives you to completion is looking forward to the completed product. There is truly something very gratifying in putting the finishing touches on a project. Again that means choosing one that you will be able to complete.

An easy wood project for you might be a planter box or a bird house. For another person it could be a garden shed or a backyard deck. It really doesn’t matter what the project is you can make it easy or more difficult for yourself depending on the plans and instructions you choose to follow.

I say keep it simple and you will have more success and more fun.

I have used arrow staplers for a long number of years. They are a great tool and I think this new line that they have just released looks like it is definitely up to their usual standards. I recommend that you read what they have to say and check out this new line of tools.

SADDLE BROOK, NJ (October 18, 2010) – Arrow Fastener Company, LLC, the product line leader in manual and electronic staple and nail guns for the building trade professional and do it-yourself markets, announced today the introduction of its new product line called R.E.D.™ to signify its key features which are, “Reliable. Ergonomic. Durable.”

The new R.E.D.™ product line includes a major evolution of the company’s T50® heavy duty staple gun, the world’s best selling staple gun, which will now also be available as the T50 R.E.D.™ staple gun, arriving in stores in October 2010. The other products in the new R.E.D.™ line include the ET50 R.E.D.™ electric staple & 1” nail gun, the HT50i R.E.D.™ hammer tacker and the EBN320 R.E.D.™ electric brad nail gun.

The T50 R.E.D.™ professional manual staple gun and 1” brad nail gun features U.S. patented drive technology that enables the user to set a staple or nail right on virtually any surface. It also offers up to 40 percent more power than selective competitive products on the market, which makes it more versatile on the job site. Professionals and DIYers alike will really appreciate that the T50 R.E.D.™ staple gun is 50 percent easier to squeeze than the T50® staple gun, which results in much less fatigue so you can keep working longer. It’s also the only manual tacker capable of firing a 1” brad nail. The T50 R.E.D.™ staple gun complements the classic T50® staple gun, which will remain available in stores nationwide.

“We’re very excited about the new R.E.D.™ product line which is a big step forward in product design for the staple and nail gun category,” said Gary DuBoff, president of Arrow Fastener. “It’s also a very professional looking product line with a sleek, black and red design, which should help it jump off store shelves when our customers get a look at it.”

“The market research and R&D effort that we have put into the R.E.D.™ product line is a very important milestone in our journey to revolutionize the stapler and nailer category,” said DuBoff. “We’ve also made substantial investments in implementing Lean manufacturing principles to improve our productivity and ensure our ability to continue producing quality, innovative products for years to come.”

The R.E.D.™ product line is the culmination of 18 months of work. “We started by interviewing 1,000 professional contractors to find out how to improve on our industry-leading products, and make them even more valuable on the job site than they are today,” said Bill Newman, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Arrow Fastener. “The rest of the process required the Arrow innovation team to kick in to gear and come up with product designs that borrow from trends in other industries, while delivering superior performance to anything we’ve ever built before. It has been an amazing journey,” said Newman.

About Arrow Fastener ( www.arrowfastener.com )
Arrow Fastener Company, LLC is a leading manufacturer of manual and electric staple and nail guns, glue and rivet tools which are sold to consumers and commercial contractors, primarily through home centers, mass merchants and specialized retailers. Founded in 1929, Arrow Fastener was acquired by Masco Corporation (NYSE: MAS) in 1999. For more than five decades, the T50® staple gun has been the industry standard, as the world’s best selling staple gun. Today, Arrow Fastener is a trusted supplier of reliable, innovative and affordable products for the building trade professional and do-it-yourselfer.

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Channellock introduces the improved 9.5” 369 high-leverage linemen’s plier, the latest in high-performance design from the company known worldwide for manufacturing quality pliers. Channellock re-created its original linemen’s plier and positioned the rivet closer to the head, providing more power to the laser heat-treated edges to cut through fish tape with less effort.

“Our improved high-leverage linemen’s plier surpasses the competition in both the testing lab and the field,” notes Ryan DeArment, vice president of sales and marketing at CHANNELLOCK®. “Professionals and do-it-yourselfers will be thrilled with the reduced effort and time saved that the 369 high-leverage linemen’s plier provides.”

A comprehensive evaluation by IMR Test Labs, an independent testing agency, verifies that the improved 9.5” 369 high-leverage linemen’s plier outperforms other professional-grade brands. It requires only 87 pounds per square inch (psi) of pressure to cut through 252,000 psi tensile strength fish tape, representing a drastic decrease in force required to cut the wire compared to the competition.

CHANNELLOCK® displayed the 9.5” 369 high-leverage linemen’s plier at both the National Hardware Show in May and the Skills USA competition in June, and tradesmen loved the improved tool. In a side-by-side comparison, they commented that it had a better balance in their hands than competitors. One professional noted that he could “feel the difference straight out of the package.”

Like all CHANNELLOCK® pliers, the 9.5” 369 high-leverage linemen’s plier is manufactured in Meadville, Pa. It features drop-forged, high-carbon C1080 steel and the signature CHANNELLOCK BLUE® comfort grips.

A Code Blue® version of the tool is also available.

Visit www.channellock.com for more information.

Founded in 1886, Channellock, Inc. is a worldwide leader in the manufacture of high-quality pliers and assorted hand tools. For more information on CHANNELLOCK® products, rich history, sales contacts and current news, visit CHANNELLOCK® at www.channellock.com .

Installation
Use a chalk line and a level and mark the walls one inch higher than the preferred height. This leaves the chalk at the top of the wall angle where it will not be visible. A laser level is also good for leveling and installing the wall L track and main T’s. When installing the wall L track it’s important that you make the inside corners overlap, and that the outside corner should also overlap or be cut at a 45-degree angle. Be careful though if you are overlapping the outside corners that the part that attaches to the wall is cut back so it doesn’t interfere with the tile. After the wall L track has been fastened to the complete perimeter of the room you’re ready to install the main T’s.

The main T’s are placed four feet apart, and as mentioned previously are positioned centered on the width of the room. This places the partial panels at the sides of the room. The other thing is you need to measure from one of the cross T slots in the main T towards one end of the main the measurement of the partial end tile determined during layout. The main T will need to be cut at this mark and each main T will need to be started the same way. Now using a string attached at each end of the room to the wall L (or by using a laser level) suspend the main T with sixteen-gauge wire attached to the structure above. The string helps you keep the main T straight from end to end of the room. These wires need to be set approx. every four feet and should be about twelve inches longer then the distance to the ceiling height. This added length of wire gives you enough length to properly secure the main T.

After all the main T’s are installed and hung straight and level the hard part of the job is done. All you have to do now is install the cross T’s. This is easy as they just snap into those slots every two or four feet depending on the orientation of your ceiling tile. Here is the second use for the string. Fasten the string to each end of the first main T and use it now for a sideways straight for to cut the side cross T’s to the wall. The wall may look straight but it most likely isn’t and you should measure and cut to length each cross T from the string to the wall. After you have installed the first wall T’s fill in the rest of the cross T’s. And then finish off the far wall by cutting and installing the last row of cross T’s.

If you’re going to install drop in lights, this is when you need to do it.

Finally, you get to cut and place the ceiling tile into the ceiling, and you’re done. Note: Make sure you have clean hands when you start to handle the tile. There is nothing worse than having your tile with finger prints all over them and they are not easy to get off.

Wow you just went from no ceiling to a great ceiling in only a few hours and what a difference it makes!

They have some real advantages over drywall ceilings but some people think they look to commercial.
1. As already stated, they give easy access.
2. They are easy and quick to install with typical household tools.
3. They are a lot cleaner to install.
3. They also provide good sound proofing.

The Parts to a Drop Ceiling
There are four main parts to a drop ceiling.
1. The L-shaped track attaches to the walls with screws or nails and is often called the wall L track.
2. The main T track which is hung from the ceiling joist or beams at about four feet intervals along the entire length of the room. Tip: you generally want to run the main T’s perpendicular (at right angles) to the existing joist or beams for easier hanging.
3. The cross tees are installed at 90-degrees to the main T’s, and clip into slots in the main T at 24” or 48” intervals. The cross T’s are 24 or 48 inches long. The cross T’s form the space for the ceiling tile to drop into.
4. The tile then rests on and between the tracks, and thus the drop ceiling is formed.

Preparing to install your ceiling
In getting ready to install a drop ceiling, the first step is to lay out the ceiling. This is easiest done with a piece of graph paper. Carefully measure the dimension of the room you are about to install the drop ceiling in and then sketch it out on the paper. By using graph paper, you can easily create an accurate representation of the area.

Now divide the width of the room by two feet. Then take the remainder of the dimension and divide it by two and this will be the size of the tile along each side of the room. In the same way take the length of the room and divide it by four feet. (The tiles come as a two foot by four foot tile most often.) Take the remainder of the length of the room and divide it in two and this will give you the measurement of the tile at the ends of the room.

If you find this difficult then show your sketch of the room to a clerk at the local store where you are buying your material and he can help you with the layout and the parts you’ll need.

Next, you need to figure out the height at which you want the ceiling. On the one hand, you want at least four inches from the lowest point of the old ceiling to the new ceiling. On the other hand you also want at least seven feet from the floor up to your ceiling. Any less and you’re going to create a space that feels cramped. If you’re installing drop in fluorescent lights, you will need at least 5” of space for the fixtures.

Next time the actual installation.

Ideal for home improvement and decorating projects

Empire Level Mfg. Corp. has introduced a new 600 Series Box Level that is light weight, durable and easy to use for a variety of household projects.

A new 300 degree top-read vial makes it quick and easy to read, and a centered graduated rule on the bottom of the level makes measuring and centering a cinch, particularly on jobs like hanging artwork or photography arrangements on the wall, which need to be both level and spaced evenly apart. Its aluminum frame makes it both strong and lightweight, which is particularly helpful when you’re working on a project that requires you to hold a level in one place for long periods of time.

The new level features a rigid, aluminum box frame and shock-absorbing end caps for added durability. The acrylic vials won’t leak if you happen to drop it while working on a project, which is a particularly attractive feature for consumers working around the house.

“With all of the new features that we’ve added to the 600 Series Box Level for increased efficiency and durability, we’re sure this new level will be really popular with Do-It-Yourselfers who are working on home decorating and other projects where the right level can make all the difference,” said Jenni Becker, president of Empire Level Mfg. Corp. “Environmentally-conscious consumers will also appreciate that the level is almost entirely recyclable.”

Empire Level products can be found at retail and online stores throughout the United States. The new 600 Series is available in both 24” and 48” sizes.

About Empire Level ( www.empirelevel.com )
Empire Level is the home of TrueBlue® – the most accurate vials in the world. The blue fluid in Empire level vials is a unique symbol of superior accuracy and a trademark of Empire Level Mfg. Corp. For over 90 years, Empire has been the leading designer and innovator of accurate and durable measuring tools for the professional and end user. Empire employs approximately 300 people at its facilities in Mukwonago, Wisconsin. More information about Empire and its products can be found at: www.empirelevel.com .

As a seller, getting a home inspector could be very beneficial for you as well. This would help you understand what needs to be improved or repaired before putting your house on the market. It would also help your realtor realize the true value of your home.

But as a prospective buyer or seller there are some things you should consider when trying to find a qualified and reliable home inspector before proceeding with any inspections.

About Home Inspectors

Know that in some places home inspectors are not regulated. Therefore knowing a home inspector’s qualifications is very important. If you are in an unregulated area, do not stick to a least expensive inspection service. Home inspectors who offer a least expensive service do not necessarily offer the best services. You definitely want to check references and client history.

Another tip in finding a qualified home inspector is to check with Home Inspectors organization or associations. Check for members who have undergone an exam and have the highest quality standards and professionalism. This could help you narrow down your choices for home inspectors.

Check with your realtor as he should also be able to recommend a home inspector. You need to be cautious about that as well. There are some realtors that would recommend a home inspector because they get something out of it. But professional and good realtors will recommend quality home inspectors from which you can choose the most appropriate for you.

If you are a buyer, you will want to get a home inspector that will represent you. You want to be cautious of a home inspector doing the job for the seller though it could be a good second perspective.

Again, as a reminder, you should check their background and references as your primary ways of deciding.

About Getting Your Home Inspected

You should have at least a basic knowledge about what should be a part of any home inspection. You do not want to be taken advantage of. An inspector missing important parts of an inspection can be very crucial. These missed inspection point could result in you needing to make major repairs to your new home.

Home inspectors should be making inside and outside inspections of the house and also be checking its different utility systems.

After finishing the inspection, the inspector should give you a written report on the findings and conclusion of the inspection. The report should give you a basic idea of what repairs need to be done. They should also bring to light any unsafe or deteriorating conditions that need to be resolved and some methods of doing that.

If you have hired a qualified and reliable home inspector his seal should be on the inspector’s report which will help validate the report.

Home inspectors can be a valuable part of you buying any new or used home.

A good home inspection process is something most home buyers should know about and take advantage of. A good home inspector is someone who can help you protect your investment.

Generally the home inspection process is the visual examination of a house’s physical structure and utility systems. From the roof down to the foundation it will determine the current condition of a house.

The standard home inspection procedure ascertains the condition of the house’s internal and external set-up, ranging from the house’s interior plumbing, electrical and heating system; central air conditioning system; roof and attic; visible insulation, as well as the walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the foundation structure that includes the basement and structural components.

The inspector will pay special attention to the house’s electrical system. He may want to remove the cover on the electric service panel to examine it more closely, so be sure that the panel is accessible and that the cover is easily removed. The plumbing pipes are also an important part of the house and will require a close look.

To do his job properly he will need access to every part of the house, particularly the utility room areas, basement and or crawl spaces and attic. These are but some of the many important areas when it comes to a home inspection.

There are also some important things you need to know about a good home inspection.
-Never attempt to conceal any defects that you are aware of.
-Allow the inspector to take their time while inspecting the house.
-Avoid asking too many questions related to the condition of the home while the inspector is in the process of the examination.
-Do not argue with the inspector about comments you may overhear, or make presumptions on the apparent results of the inspection.
-Remember they have been asked by you to help you identify any problems you need to be aware of.
-As much as possible, make sure you are aware of the things the home inspector needs to check into.

The bottom line for any home inspection process is to focus on two things. The first thing is consumer protection and the investment of the client. Since investing in a home is probably one of the biggest investments you will ever make.

Even if you’re not planning on buying or selling a house, a home inspection can be a great help to you. They can help discover problems that could arise with your existing home even before they happen. Home inspectors will suggest preventive measures that can prevent costly repairs that are likely to occur giving you some time to make repairs, instead of having to make those repairs in an emergency situation.

Some people may consider home inspectors as very negative and only looking for the bad. In reality, they can actually be your next best friend. Ensuring you get value for your money when investing in a home or maintaining the value of the home you have.

So think of it this way, a home inspector can be a good investment protector.

To help cut down on problems, many experts suggest adding wood flooring to your new or existing homes. Wood floors result in better air quality because they don’t collect the dust and dirt that carpeting often gets embedded in it. And did you know that a new wood floor can last three to six times longer than carpeting?

Dr. Neil Schachter, professor of pulmonary medicine at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine says that “Over the years, we’ve seen a number of allergy and asthma cases attributed to poor air quality in people’s homes”.

Wood floors are not only beautiful they’re also renewable and extremely durable. By installing wood floors in your homes, you can send a signal to the industry to plant more trees, which could result in more forestland, a very positive thing.

A very recent study also found that hardwood floors greatly reduce the accumulation of toxins. This is a result of less carpet in your home. Several chemical toxins are used and created in the manufacture of carpeting.

To help you improve your indoor air quality, here are some simple tips.

- Check your air conditioner. The ducts of your heating and central air-conditioning system are a big collector of dust and grime. Have them cleaned regularly.

- Inspect your walls. Did you know wallpaper is a potent food for dust mites and mold, both of which can grow behind the surface of the wallpaper? Use flat, washable paint instead.

- Avoid carpet in the bedroom. It is estimated that the average bed contains 10,000 dust mites, which usually burrow deep into carpets. Install wood floors instead. Believe me it makes a big difference.

- Grow houseplants to improve the indoor air quality of closed spaces. A groundbreaking study done by NASA reported that indoor plants were capable of removing pollutants such as formaldehyde and benzene from indoor air. Some plants do a better job as indoor air purifiers than others, and the list includes peace lilies, Boston ferns, and the ubiquitous rubber plant.

Indoor air quality has more of an impact on our health and wellbeing than it is given credit for. Allergens and pollutants have traditionally been associated with the outdoors. However modern buildings with increased energy efficiency and advanced building materials have created the problem of indoor air pollution.

Help your home be a safe and healthy home by avoiding carpet and installing wood floors instead. You won’t be disappointed.