Breathe Cleaner Air
According to the EPA, indoor air quality is of the top five most important environmental concerns of Americans today!
Did you know that the air we breathe in our home can be dirtier and more polluted than the visible pollution we endure outside? This can cause such health issues such as asthma, respiratory allergies and aggravated emphysema.
In a study done by the EPA, having your HVAC system cleaned will also help the system run more efficiently and last longer! Call one of our ToFixIt! Air Duct/ Vent Cleaning Specialty companies today to clean the air your family breathes today.
Protect Your Home & Family
1) Know your neighbors and look out for each other. How disturbing would it be if your neighbor actually witnessed a theft at your residence and didn’t even give a second thought to what was happening?
2) Introduce yourself to your neighbors and make sure they know of you and your family so they are aware when a strange person is on your property.
3) While on vacation, have individuals that you can trust do the following: watch over your home, pick up your paper or anything lying around the yard, and carry any packages into your home that may be sitting at your front door.
Another very important thing to remember is Fire Protection, as it’s just as important as Security.
- Keep all flammable material in a safe place.
- Have a working smoke detector in all rooms on all floors of the home.
- Test all detectors on a monthly basis to be sure everything is in proper working order.
- Develop a home fire escape plan and familiarize your children and everyone in your home with the sound of your smoke detectors.
The Importance of a Good Front Door
Your front door makes a big difference to the overall appearance of your home.
- it can be replaced at a fraction of the cost it would be to redo the exterior of your home
- it is a key focal point
- improves curb appeal and tells visitors and neighbors a lot about you
- provide you and your family security
- keep out unwanted insects such as scorpions and spiders from entering your home
Your Vehicle is a Valuable Investment
Did you know that an unmaintained vehicle costs you 22 cents per mile to operate?
A properly maintained vehicle will only cost you 12 cents per mile. That’s a savings of 10 cents a mile! The average vehicle is driven 15,000 miles per year. The average maintenance cost is only $850 a year. That saves you $650, plus your vehicle is more dependable, will last longer, and be worth more when you sell it.
Have you heard about the dexcool? It causes thousands of dollars in unnecessary engine repairs to consumers that just didn’t know any better. Anytime you have service on the cooling system part, make sure to have it flushed out the dexcool and replace it with good coolant. This saves hundreds, if not thousands of dollars, in costly repair bills. Every manufacturer has some kind of problem that’s inherent to their brand. It is a professionals job to bring this to your attention and let you make an informed and educated decision on what is best for your vehicle.
The good shops know these problems and can educate consumers and save them thousands of dollars in unneeded repairs. This gives our customers the peace of mind they deserve.
Lack of Attic Insulation
One of the main reasons for higher energy bills, especially in the summer time is lack of attic insulation. Adding it to any structure is one of easiest and most cost effective ways of lowering these bills.
- As a rule of thumb you should have at least 12 to 24 inches of insulation in your attic, covering the duct work, plumbing pipes and cold air returns. Basically if you can see the tops of the boards in your attic, your insulation is poor.
- Proper ventilation is also very important; it allows the insulation do its job more effectively. Turbines, fans and eve vents are a great way to achieve this.
Bermuda Grass
When nights hit an average of 65 degrees, Bermuda grass starts to grow in late spring after the danger of frost has passed.
If you plant Bermuda seeds too late in the season you might find the grass will not strive. You take the chance of it dying because of the lack of growth will not promote the proper root system needed to feed the grass.
Having a great lawn often requires the expert touch from a professional.
Appliance Repair
We all have appliances in our homes that we use daily. Sooner or later we will all need to turn to a professional to have an appliance repaired. It is often more reasonable to have an appliance repaired, rather than having some of those high tech conveniences in our homes replaced.
Call our ToFixIt! Professionals today.
Ready for Outdoors
March is a great time to start the cut backs needed to promote healthy growth on trees and shrubs.
Installing any plants in the early spring helps promote the growth needed before the Arizona summer heat arrives.
Many people here in Arizona opted for having an area in their yard where there is real grass for their children or dogs to play on.
A common grass grown here in Arizona is Bermuda grass because it loves the sun. It can be planted from grass seed and requires less care and mowing than some of the other types of grass.
When nights hit an average of 65 degrees, Bermuda grass starts to grow in late spring after the danger of frost has passed.
Make Financial New Year Resolutions
It’s a New Year!!
What better time than NOW, to make some smart financial New Year resolutions.
As you review your annual expenses, you may not be thinking about whether your insurance needs have changed. This is an excellent time to make that a priority. During these difficult economic times, it is important to evaluate your financial situation and find different ways to save money.
One good place to start is to take a look at your current insurance policy and find ways to maximize your coverage with the best price available. Many families don’t realize that there are many discounts available. For instance, you may have a new driver in your household, or have a new college student or may be renting a home.
It’s important to know that when a child’s status changes, most often so do your insurance needs. You may need to add a son or daughter to the insurance policy as a new driver. If you have a teen driver, there are many programs available that can give you significant premium savings and discounts to students with a grade point average of 3.0 and above. If you have a child at college, now is the time to review your homeowner’s policy to determine if all of their personal items will be covered if lost or stolen. Or, if you or your college student is renting a home or apartment, renter’s insurance is a great option to make sure you are covered.
Get the New Year started out right. Determine if your family insurance needs have changed. Now is a great time to revisit your current insurance policies and more importantly make sure you are covered, no matter what your current family situation. Find out ways that you can save money and maximize your coverage.
Few Tips For a Stress Free Get Away
Leaving home for a long awaited vacation or just for a long weekend here are some suggestions that can help relieve stress. This can be accomplished if you follow some of these key steps.
- It is important to leave your porch light on in the evenings
- Alternate lamp lighting throughout the home. This makes it appear as though someone may be in the house.
- Make sure all newspaper, mail and flyers are removed from your driveway or porch because this helps ensure to the outside world you have never left your home
Complete Your “Honey Do” List
It is the time of year that we start to get “ready” for the Christmas season.
There are many affordable things that can be done to your home quickly by a professional handyman before those guests arrive. Some of the most common requests we receive include items that can make a huge impact, with little cost and help promote safety for your loved ones. Don’t forget about those furry, four legged family members too. Top 6 reasons to call your handyman today:
1. Are your electrical sockets safe? Check or replace cracked or damaged electrical wall plates before adding those holiday lights.
2. Are your smoke detectors working? When was the last time you changed the battery. This should be done yearly. Pick a special date or holiday to change your batteries each year.
3. Crown molding can make huge impact to add ambiance and glamour to any room. There are some many options available for you to choose, including a variety of wood types, size, staining or paint.
4. Do you have little repairs in your walls that need patching? These are easy to fix and can make the room look clean and crisp again.
5. Save on your utilities bills by adding weather stripping and caulking around your windows and doors. Your front door is the first thing a visitor views when coming to your home. Spruce it up and fix unsightly blemishes.
6. Don’t forget about your pets. Adding a doggie door can be huge relief to you and your pet so that there won’t be any unexpected messes when you arrive home.
Hire a professional handyman today for all of those odds and ends that need to be done so that you can just enjoy more free time to spend with your loved ones this season.
Save $$ on Air Conditioning and Heating
Did you know that almost half of the energy used in your home goes to heating and cooling? Therefore, you can see how important it is to make smart decisions about your home's or office heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system because it can have a big effect on your utility bills and comfort in your home or office.
- Be sure to have your HVAC equipment tuned up yearly.
- A programmable thermostat can save you about $180 every year in energy costs.
Shop Smart for New Flooring
Shopping for new flooring for the holidays? Shop smart!
Start with a reputable retail flooring company.
They can help with each step of the process, to help determine which flooring best meets your lifestyle, maintenance, and budget requirements and to ensure you have the best warranties available.
Are you casual and outgoing? Or do you prefer structure and formality? Maybe you have a bold imagination that's fired by modern images. Whatever your personality type, your home…your floors can tell a lot about you. Fashions change, but personalities are stable. You can always add accessories and area rugs to reflect your changing tastes.
Bring your floor plan with you along with any material samples from the rooms you are redoing: fabric and paint swatches and countertop, cabinetry, and hardware samples. A tape measure can also be helpful, especially if you are planning to purchase a remnant or a material that has limited stock available.
Finally, don't be intimidated. It's your home. It's your treasure. Make it about you. All the work you put into it will give you wonderful results.
Cool Tools for Your Car
When your A/C is working in the car it is great however, when it starts blowing that warm air or quits working when it is hot outside it can be difficult to pinpoint. The smallest of leaks can cause the air to work for a short period of time and then go out again. This can be very frustrating to you and your mechanic.
A great deal of the time the culprit is an issue is the Freon gas which can’t be seen and is odorless. The air-conditioning system is in the engine system and even runs into the dashboard inside of your car which entails a lot of connections and or fittings where a small leak can result.
However, there is hope. There is a tool that indicates when the refrigerant is in the air by creating an audible beeping sound. It beeps louder and quicker when it is placed near a leaking source.
Some of the problems with this tool are:
• freon may already be low to get a proper reading
• moving the probe too fast over a small leak
• leak detector needs time to really sample the air
Find an expert knowing that the job will be tested thoroughly and fixed right the first time. Call 602-863-4948 or visit the website at: http://www.tofixit.com/phoenix/index.php/auto-ac-repair/
Change the Mood In Your Home
Lighting can really change the mood in your home. There are many ways to provide the amount of light that you need in your home without breaking your budget.
- Installing Dimmers in your home can save you up to 30% of your energy use on that fixture. It also allows the bulb to last up to 2 – 3 years longer. These switches are a very inexpensive way to conserve energy while saving you money.
- Occupancy sensors, are another great alternative that can be added to any light switch in your home? These automatically turn lights on when a room is occupied and off again when a room is vacant, providing a substantial energy saving.
- Don’t forget that updating your obsolete florescent fixtures to energy saving fixtures
Natural Gas is More Economical
Has this ever happened to you, it’s Sunday afternoon you have a yard full of company enjoying good conversation and beverage cooking on your grill when all of a sudden you realize your grill is out of propane. Now you have to go down to the locale convenient store and pay an arm and a leg for a tank refill.
This could all have been avoided if you had a natural gas grill.
Natural gas is always there, it is more economical and safer to use. Not only can you have the natural gas to the grill you could also pipe it to an outdoor gas light and for in the winter time it could be used for a gas fire place and patio heaters.
Expenses Associated with Your Roof
If you have owned a home in Arizona for any length of time likely spent quite a bit of time and money in the remodel business. That is remodeling your own home. There are two different remodels- but most people never considered the roof. Roofs just aren’t, well…sexy.
Remodeling is certainly not the hobby it used to be mostly because we are reluctant to over invest in our homes. Some schools of thought are that our homes were never supposed to be short term investments. Not too long ago there were even tax penalties for capital gains if you sold your home more than once in a lifetime. When we lived in our homes for a lifetime, we protected them to last a lifetime.
What does matter? Especially now, when we are most reluctant to over spend on our homes is when the primary expenditures should be with a goal of protecting the home, its systems and its contents. Preventing larger expenses like leaks, water soaked drywall and even mold is the new hot trend. Don’t wait for the roof to fail before you take action to protect that investment.
Here are some hot tips to keep your roof system fully functioning allowing you to avoid the bigger expenses associated with roof system failure.
1. Appreciate your roof- it is the structure that protects all the other systems in your home.
2. Flat roofs: A flat roof well maintained has the sustainability to last indefinitely. A flat roof should have some maintenance every 5 years. Maintenance should include removal of debris, re sealing of penetrations and in most cases repairs and coating. Ignored and your small maintenance expenditure could every turn into a larger re-roof expenditure.
3.Tiles roofs: This is the classic good news, bad news scenario. The good news is the tile will likely last you a lifetime, but the bad news is your underlayment should be looked at every 10-12 years. The underlayment is the waterproofing component. Heads up: due to economic conditions many tile manufacturers have gone out of business- this caused difficulty in finding tile matches to many existing roofs. When tile is removed to replace the underlayment- tiles will be broken.
4. Shingle roofs: Although most shingles these days come with lengthy warranties, the truth is maintenance is not only the key to protecting the roof, but the key to keeping those warranties in place. Professionals recommend Shingle roofs should be evaluated every 5-8 years. Roofs should be cleared of debris, penetrations should be resealed every 5 years or so, and if you are going to have solar, cable or new HVAC installed be sure to have the new roof penetrations handled by a licensed roofing contractor.
Remember: protecting the roof is protecting the house- your home. Hire a reputable, licensed Arizona Roofing contractor. It matters!
Expenses Associated with Your Roof
If you have owned a home in Arizona for any length of time likely spent quite a bit of time and money in the remodel business. That is remodeling your own home. There are two different remodels- but most people never considered the roof. Roofs just aren’t, well…sexy.
Remodeling is certainly not the hobby it used to be mostly because we are reluctant to over invest in our homes. Some schools of thought are that our homes were never supposed to be short term investments. Not too long ago there were even tax penalties for capital gains if you sold your home more than once in a lifetime. When we lived in our homes for a lifetime, we protected them to last a lifetime.
What does matter? Especially now, when we are most reluctant to over spend on our homes is when the primary expenditures should be with a goal of protecting the home, its systems and its contents. Preventing larger expenses like leaks, water soaked drywall and even mold is the new hot trend. Don’t wait for the roof to fail before you take action to protect that investment.
Here are some hot tips to keep your roof system fully functioning allowing you to avoid the bigger expenses associated with roof system failure.
1. Appreciate your roof- it is the structure that protects all the other systems in your home.
2. Flat roofs: A flat roof well maintained has the sustainability to last indefinitely. A flat roof should have some maintenance every 5 years. Maintenance should include removal of debris, re sealing of penetrations and in most cases repairs and coating. Ignored and your small maintenance expenditure could every turn into a larger re-roof expenditure.
3.Tiles roofs: This is the classic good news, bad news scenario. The good news is the tile will likely last you a lifetime, but the bad news is your underlayment should be looked at every 10-12 years. The underlayment is the waterproofing component. Heads up: due to economic conditions many tile manufacturers have gone out of business- this caused difficulty in finding tile matches to many existing roofs. When tile is removed to replace the underlayment- tiles will be broken.
4. Shingle roofs: Although most shingles these days come with lengthy warranties, the truth is maintenance is not only the key to protecting the roof, but the key to keeping those warranties in place. Professionals recommend Shingle roofs should be evaluated every 5-8 years. Roofs should be cleared of debris, penetrations should be resealed every 5 years or so, and if you are going to have solar, cable or new HVAC installed be sure to have the new roof penetrations handled by a licensed roofing contractor.
Remember: protecting the roof is protecting the house- your home. Hire a reputable, licensed Arizona Roofing contractor. It matters!
Do You Suffer From ‘Bad Concrete’?
No matter how much we spend fixing up our homes and or businesses nothing really seems complete when we have ‘bad concrete’. Bad concrete can mean bad curb appeal. What is ‘bad concrete’? Well that can apply to many issues from stains to cracks to slip/trip hazards or deteriorated concrete.
Let’s take a look at these issues.
- Stains
- Cracks
• concrete that is cracked
• concrete that is going to crack
The proper design and layout of control joints can remedy many of these issues. Most cracked concrete will require professional help to repair however there are some products available at your local hardware or home improvement store. Remember that most repairs to cracks will not eliminate the physical appearance but will make it easier to clean the surface and reduce the trip hazard potential. A frequently overlooked cause of cracked concrete is tree roots. When planning your landscape layout make sure to keep trees away from the concrete.
- Slip or trip hazards
- Deteriorated concrete
Before making costly mistakes in concrete repairs or concrete additions talk to a qualified contractor. Services include removal of damaged concrete, repairs to cracked concrete, pouring of new concrete for patios, driveways, walkways. The qualified contractor will also offer many options for resurfacing of your concrete both outside of your facility and also for new exciting decorative interior coatings and color dye options.
Dull Carpet
It’s the time of the year for cool weather, holiday treats, and realizing that you will have family over and they’re going to see all the spots on your carpet. It is time to clean up.
Just like waiting too long in between dentist appointments, many people wait too long in between professional carpet cleanings. Harmless as it may seem, waiting too long between cleanings can dramatically reduce the life of your carpet.
The dirt and grime that is in your carpet (mostly hidden) grinds away at your carpet fiber like sandpaper, wearing away the protective coating and causing the carpet color to appear dull. This grinding action from the hidden dirt lessens the life of your carpet. Read more to learn the most common mistake for DYI spot cleaning on carpet.
Do your flooring investment justice by finding a professional carpet cleaning company and getting set up with regular maintenance cleanings. Depending upon your situation, you may want to clean anywhere from every four months to once a year for very light use areas. Contact your professional cleaning company for a recommendation.
Common mistakes for DIY spot cleaning on carpet:
- Using soap
- Using other harsh cleaners
- Using “home remedies”
- Panicking
Use only spot cleaners recommended by a professional. Try warm water first and blot and wipe (don’t scrub, you may damage the texture of the carpet) the spot with a terry-cloth towel.
Lighting and Savings
Lighting can really change the mood in your home. There are many ways to provide the amount of light that you need in your home without breaking your budget.
- Installing Dimmers in your home can save you up to 30% of your energy use on that fixture. It also allows the bulb to last up to 2 – 3 years longer. These switches are a very inexpensive way to conserve energy while saving you money.
- Occupancy sensors, are another great alternative that can be added to any light switch in your home? These automatically turn lights on when a room is occupied and off again when a room is vacant, providing a substantial energy saving.
- Don’t forget that updating your obsolete florescent fixtures to energy saving fixtures
Improve Your Gas Mileage
Did you know that excessive carbon build-up in your vehicle’s air intake and fuel system results in:
- poor fuel economy
- lack of power
- hard start-up
- higher emissions levels
Roof Top Decorations
Christmas lights and roof top decorations can add the extra “wow” to your house for the holiday season. However, hanging and putting up these decorations can be dangerous and possibly cause damage to your roof.
Your roof is a huge investment and asset to your home so you want to make sure you are keeping up the maintenance. It should be checked and cleared twice a year to help increase the life of your roof, which is about 15 years in Arizona. Little repairs can help prevent costly problems later.
To learn more tricks of the trade read entire article.
Before installing anything on your roof you want to make sure the roof is clean and dry.
If you have a lot of trees around your house if would be a good idea to call your roofing contractor and have them inspect the roof and remove all debris for you.
The debris can make it slippery while you’re up there but it can also cause damage to your roof year round.
Prior to you going up on the roof for your lighting we recommend:
• using the variety of plastic clips that they sell
• these clips go right on your wood without puncturing any holes and are easy to remove once the holiday season is over
If you are installing anything on the actual roof top please remember:
• ladder safety
• make sure the ladder is placed on a level ground
• ladder is the right height to fit your house
• have someone else with you to help hold the ladder
Traveling by Car
We know you have heard it all before but it never hurts to hear it again. Thanksgiving is the most traveled holiday of the year and more motorists are on the road than at any other time. Be sure to use extra caution.
Here are some travel tips:
1. Check that automobile
Make sure it is sound, enough air in the tires, oil change on time before you leave, water in the windshield wipers, seat-belts are strong and safe, engine is running good, no strange noises and be sure to check the brakes.
2. Take an emergency kit
Make sure you have a battery powered radio, flashlight, blanket, jumper cables, fire extinguisher, first aid kit, bottled water, snack foods, maps, tire repair kit and flares.
3. Watch out for clever criminals
Do not stop if your car is bumped from behind or if someone says there is something wrong with your car. Go to a well-lit, populated area and call for help. Fill the gas tank before dark and lock your doors when you leave. Remove valuables from your car and lock the doors.
4. Stop along the way
It is a good idea to stop every 2 or 3 hours and get out of the car. Let the kids run around for about 15 minutes. Don't be in a hurry to reach your destination. Stop and sleep or change drivers if the present driver becomes tired, it is better to be safe in your car and take some time to rest then cause an accident.
5. Be aware of changes in weather
Weather conditions will be changing - especially during mornings and evenings with the cold. Watch for ice, snow and other weather related obstacles. Watch for the signs.
6. Don’t be a Turkey
Plan ahead, know your limitations, slow down and buckle up.
Visit tofixit.com to find honest, reliable automotive repair shops to give you peace of mind before you get behind the wheel of your car this holiday season.
Choosing a Reputable Contractor
There are laws in place to protect you, the consumer. Every city, municipality and state has minimum building standard laws for all construction, remodeling, additions, alterations and repairs. This law requires all new homes and remodeling work to be completed to local codes and provides for third-party inspections. All builders and contractors must follow the same rules and meet the same standards. These measures protect you from poor construction methods and provide you with assurances that your home will be remodeled to scientifically-tested standards.
Sounds nice, doesn't it? Don't relax just yet. You're entrusting someone with what is probably your largest asset and their only required guidance is a code that provides a minimum standard. Want to rest easy that you've got a good professional contractor?
Here's the homework assignment:
• Beware of an unusually low bid or low advertised price. No matter what he signs, the contractor has to be able to afford to pay for labor, materials and overhead or you’re both in trouble.
• Discuss the bid in detail with the contractor to make sure you understand the reasons for any variation in price.
• Ask for insurance certificates to verify current worker’s compensation and general liability insurance
• Make sure the contractor has a permanent business location and a good reputation with local banks and suppliers.
• Visit the Registrar of Contractors, http://www.azroc.gov/forms/contractorsearch.html
to find out how long the company has been in business and whether there are any unresolved complaints against the firm.
• Select a contractor you are comfortable with – one who understands your tastes, need and with whom you can communicate.
Ask your contractor for references and photos of finished projects from previous customers so you can ask about the quality of their work. Take your time. Most problems occur when consumers fail to investigate contractors carefully before hiring them.
To learn more about remodeling projects that can be completed before the holidays visit tofixit.com
Auto Repairs, Brakes, Oil Change, Tune-Ups
When repairing your automobile, the main goal is to maintain the life of your engine and car. By servicing your car you are insuring that you continue to get normal gas mileage, prevent damage to your engine and keep your car running smoothly.
- A proper brake inspection means carefully checking everything in the entire system, from the pedals to the wheels.
- Tune-ups should be done about every 30,000 miles. A tune-up is a process of replacing and maintaining parts that wear out through usage.
- An oil change is an important part of a preventative maintenance program that enhances the reliability and longevity of your vehicle.
Your Furnace is a Controlled Fire
Did you know that your furnace “is a controlled fire in your home “and can be a safety issue?
Get peace of mind for you and your family as well as help save money on your utility bill by simply having your furnace inspected.
This will help save on costly repairs later too.
Pain in Your Back or Neck
Chiropractic is a branch of the healing arts that is based upon the fact that good health depends upon a healthy relationship between the nervous system and the spinal column. The practice of chiropractic deals with the concept of interference with normal nerve transmission and expression. It is based on the fact that abnormal functions of the body can be caused by abnormal pressure or irritation of the nervous system by various body structures.
Gray’s Anatomy states that, “the nervous system’s function is to control and coordinate “all” the other organs and structures and to relate the individual to his environment.”
Yes, the nervous system is vitally important to our health and well being. In many cases the nervous system should be evaluated first before taking drugs or surgery, the last alternative.
Treatment (The Adjustment)
An adjustment that the Chiropractor administers to a vertebra of the spine is call “an adjustment.” The adjustment of displaced vertebrae interfering with normal nerve supply and causing a disturbance to the nervous system is the major treatment. The adjustment is performed by hand and in some instances, by a hand-held device as the patient is lying face down on a specially designed table.
The Chiropractor relates various levels of the spinal column to various organs and conditions. For example, if tenderness is found at the base of the skull, it may be related to headaches, sinus problems or to the jaw. Lower down in your neck may be found misaligned vertebra that relate to pain, tingling or numbness in your shoulder, arm or hands. Chest and stomach problems may have a displacement of the bones between the shoulder blade. Lower back pain can cause tingling down the leg and numbness (sciatica) as well as abdominal, bladder and prostate problems because of the same nerve supply.
Orthopedic and neurological testing are a part of a chiropractic examination to arrive at the underlying cause of your problem.
Health Check List
Take just two minutes to check for any symptoms you may have. Following an accident, always get checked by a Chiropractor to avoid future, possible serious health problems. If you have any symptoms call immediately for an appointment.
__Migraine headache __Ache all over
__Numbness in limbs __ Fatigue
__Stiff or painful neck __Bursitis
__Nausea __Neuritis
__Dizziness __Tendinitis
__Double vision __Loss of neck motion
__Painful back __Blackouts
__Muscle spasm __Muscle swelling
__Nervousness __Night blindness
__Tingling in limbs __Loss of balance
__Insomnia __Loss of hearing
__Pinched nerves __Cold hands or feet
__Ringing in ears __Shortness of breath
__Poor circulation __Poor memory
__Mental dullness __Anxiety
__Tremors __Eye strain
__Rapid heart beat __Period of depression
__Constipation __Diarrhea
__Early arthritis __Any change from pre-accident condition.
__Tension
Mini Exam At Home
A simple visual check may be done to reveal possible spinal misalignments. In front of a mirror, stand up straight with your arms relaxed, looking straight ahead. Is your head tilted to one side? We become so accustomed to our everyday appearance we rarely notice asymmetry.
Look at the level of your shoulders. Is one shoulder higher than the other? Next, look at your hip level. Compare each side at the top of your hip bone. Is one side higher than the other? Do you have your clothes altered because of a “short leg”?
Ask a family member to view you from behind. Turn your head to the right and left. Are you able to turn further one way than the other? Are your shoulders symmetrical? Does one shoulder blade protrude? Do the muscles seem to be bulkier on one side? Is one knee slightly bent when you are standing?
Many times, deviations such as those above can be the source of aches and pain.
All young children should have a spinal examination at least once a year. If caught early, much can be done for a spinal curvature, avoiding painful procedures like surgery and braces.
It is possible to have structural deviations without pain, but sooner or later, they will usually cause pain and are one of the major causes of osteoarthritis and other degenerative diseases.
Visit ToFixIt.com today to find a local Chriropractic Physician in your area and start feeling better today!
Don’t Be Afraid of Your Bathroom
What is scarier than mold?
Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Be sure to turn the bathroom exhaust fan on while you're taking a bath or shower, leave it on for 10 minutes after you are done showering.
- Open windows and doors after you take a shower, if at all possible.
- Stretch the shower curtain out across the length of the shower rod after use. This gives it a chance to dry out completely.
- Wipe down your shower walls, including the grout between tiles.
1. If it's time to repaint your bathroom walls, use a semi-gloss paint. This creates a hard surface that is difficult for mold to grow on. This is an inexpensive way to get a new look.
2. The newer materials used for showers are made to resist mold; porcelain tile is an excellent material that will last for years.
3. Most of the grouts used now are also mold resistant.
4. New counter tops in granite or quarts will definitely make a positive impact on the look of your bathroom. Granite is stunning and beautiful, and quartz is available in many striking colors.
5. Granite slabs can even be used on shower walls making an almost seamless application with no grout to take care of!
The proper application is often the key to your bathroom shower and other products lasting a long time while staying mold free. Be sure to use an experienced licensed contractor that will install your materials correctly and scare away that spooky look and bring it back to life with a gorgeous new look. ToFixIt has experts at spook busting bathrooms, so who are you going to call?
Ward Off Scary Auto Expenses
Can you feel it? Fall has finally set in on the great state of Arizona and there’s no better time to get out and hit the open road. Autumn leaves, pumpkin festivals and beautiful scenery await. But before you hit the trail, now is a great time step back and take inventory of your vehicle. The side of the road is not the greatest way to enjoy autumn, checking a few basic things will help make sure you're fall adventure is memorable in the best of ways. Here are a few simple, easy-to-remember tips that you can do yourself.
Tire pressure
You should check your tire pressure at least once a month to ensure tires are not under- or over-inflated. Low pressure in the tires can increase wear and fuel consumption, while having too much pressure may reduce traction. Keeping tires properly aligned will also help assure longer tire life and improve fuel economy.
New Tires
Summer wreaks havoc on tires and the heat may have tipped your treads over the edge. Check for cracks or worn edges.
Engine oil
Dirty oil will increase engine wear, while low oil levels can lead to overheating. If the oil level drops too low, lubrication will be lost and severe engine damage can result. Regular oil changes will add longevity to your engine.
Brakes
Ignoring the signs of bad brakes is a huge mistake. We’ve all heard that squealing or grinding sound and said “I’ll get it looked at next week”, but the longer you wait the more you can risk serious damage to your car. When your brakes are making noise think of it as a baby crying out to its mother, don’t ignore it!
The good news is that you can stop all of these problems from ever occurring with regularly scheduled maintenance. Just like our own health, the key to longevity is routine checkups and early detection. Also, use your senses of sight, sound and smell to keep tabs on your car. Most of the problems you will have start with a “weird sound”, “funny smell”, or everyone’s favorite, the check engine light. So why not get a checkup today, and make sure your ride is ready for that great fall journey?
Do Your Appliances Moan or Groan?
When you hear moans, groans, squeals, rattles, crackling, or bumps & thumps from your appliances, chances are it’s not a ghost (could be a gremlin, though). Spooky sounds from your refrigerator, ice maker, cook top, oven, microwave, dishwasher, garbage disposer, etc. can be pretty scary if ignored. You could have trouble with any of your appliances in the middle of holiday baking, Thanksgiving dinner, Christmas dinner, or your annual Holiday party.
Here’s what you should do –
Your oven is center stage.
You, like many of our customers, might be concerned about your oven temperature. You’re more likely to have a problem with the oven after you have used the self-clean feature. So, if you intend to use the self-clean feature before the holidays, you should do so 2 weeks in advance. That way there should be adequate time to respond to a problem, if one occurs. What would you do if the door won’t open, for instance? It happens & it’s scary!
You certainly want your refrigerator to be in top condition, as well.
Most frost-free refrigerators have a set of coils underneath (on top on some models) called condenser coils. These must remain clean for efficient cooling. You should vacuum them at least once a year. Be careful. If you puncture the coils, you will have “toil & trouble”.
Take some precautions to avoid nasty odors.
To reduce refrigerator odors, cover all foods well and put onions and garlic in sealed bags. Use baking soda, or a high-quality activated charcoal air filter, to absorb those unpleasant smells. Then, dump that old baking soda container you had in the refrigerator down the disposer to “freshen” it up, as well.
Rusty or spotted silverware can be ugly!
Customers complain more about the performance of their dishwasher than with any other appliance. With these simple steps you can keep your dishwasher functioning at peak performance and avoid embarrassing results:
1. Only use dishwasher soap in the dishwasher.
2. Clean the debris off your dishes.
3. Make sure your hot water is set to 130 degrees.
4. Run hot water at the tap ‘til it reaches maximum temperature before starting your dishwasher.
5. Clean any filters your dishwasher may have monthly.
6. Monthly, use a cleanser, such as, one cup of vinegar, Dishwasher Magic, Affresh or Glass Magic.
One other thing – check your manufacturer’s recommendations. For instance, some silverware companies specifically warrant their product only if you do not use dishwasher soap containing lemon.
Don’t wait ‘til it’s too late. Or, if you’ve been putting off a repair now’s the time to get it done.
Etching on Natural Stone is a Common Occurrence
Did you know that etching is a common occurrence found on many natural stones like Marble and Travertine?
Etching looks like a dull spot and it is caused by acidic liquids such as juice, coffee and soda.
- Polishing your stone is the only way to remove etches marks.
- Sealers minimize penetration of spills and stains; however they cannot protect these stones from etching.
A common myth is cleaning with vinegar. However, Vinegar leaves a sticky residue forcing you to clean more often.
Vacuuming and dust mopping polished surfaces will greatly reduce the need for professional refinishing of polished natural stone surfaces.
For most active homes, sealed with a good sealer, every-other-year is sufficient.
How to Have a Beautiful Winter Lawn
If you are going to have green grass year round, you will need to over seed with a perennial rye every October.
What is involved in having a winter lawn?
The reason we need to install a winter lawn is because the grass that grows in the summer in Phoenix is a Bermuda grass that particularly likes the heat and direct sunlight. When the cooler weather and shorter days arrive, the Bermuda grass goes dormant, turns brown and doesn’t grow. So we need to cut back the Bermuda and plant a rye grass that thrives in cooler temperatures.
There are a few basic steps to follow to install a winter lawn:
- Weed eat all the way to the ground around the sprinkler heads. This will eliminate the need of mowing close to them, and will save the sprinkler heads from breakage.
- Rent a de-thatcher to remove all the grass clippings that have built up over the past year. This helps to expose the soil and allows the new seed to germinate and grow.
- Lower the deck on your mower all the way down and scalp the Bermuda as close to the ground as possible. Rake to clean up and loosen the soil.
- Apply rye seed, and set your time clock at 6 times per day to germinate the rye seed.
- After 2 weeks you will have a new lawn that is ready to be cut and fertilized.
Your Investments… Uncertain Markets
Headlines, media, and the internet are filled with good news / bad news.
So who do you believe? And, what do you do?...
Dream again – Know Your Goals
In order to know your goals; you need to establish your goals. You would never jump on a ship without knowing your destinations. Find a Financial Planner that will charge you a fair price to help you put your goals (dreams) to a plan and action.
Investing is Fundamental not Emotional
My grandpa, a farmer, always told me, “no matter how hard I pray, I have never been able to control the weather.” But, fundamentally he would choose a reputable seed company, keep his equipment well maintained, rotate his crop, till the land, and track crop prices. Did my grandparents have the highest yielding crops every year? No, but they have farmed successfully for over 50 years. Investing fundamentally greatly increases your probability for success as well. Invest regularly, use an adviser, research, have different types of investments (diversification), have the proper percentage in each type (allocation), track your investments, and stay invested.
Measure Progress & Adjust as needed
Winning the championship is what’s important; not finding a superstar. Some people have the misconception that the performance of your investments is the most important thing. It is NOT! The most important thing is your dreams converted to experiences.
What do I do now?
All types of investments will always go through their cycles of success and struggle. You need to find an adviser strong enough to hold you accountable to the fundaments; someone that will provide advice along the way; and an adviser that measures success on your interests not theirs.
Present a Professional Office Image
Every business needs to cleaned and maintained.
Hiring a professional commercial, office cleaning service can enhance the professional appearance of your office, while providing a clean and healthy environment for your staff.
Present the professional image you want your employees and clients to experience.
Extend the Life of Your Car Battery
We are all familiar with the sound a vehicle makes when it just does not have enough juice to start, but sometimes a battery problem is not as easy to spot. Don't get stuck on the side of the road for something that is so easy to test.
Oddly enough, most batteries here in Phoenix, AZ only last for about 33 months or less. While battery life varies for a lot of reasons, the biggest is how hot it gets here. It seems like cold weather is hard on batteries because that is frequently when we actually see them fail as it takes a lot more power to turn over a cold engine, but the damage is actually done by the heat.
Here are some reasons that batteries fail, especially during and after a hot summer:
- It falls down to simple physics as batteries rely on chemical reactions that are accelerated in the heat.
- It takes less than a day for a car battery to start to discharge in the heat.
- When a battery is left partially discharged the portion that is discharged quits working – it dies.
- To make matters worse the “dead” part of the battery plate will not recharge, so the battery is just never the same.
“I Just Don’t Drive Very Much”
- Short trips to the grocery store and to drop off the kids at school can greatly accelerate the death of your battery.
- By driving short distances the alternator does not have enough time to completely recharge your battery.
- Chances are when you pull back into your driveway after a short trip your battery is not fully charged yet.
“My Vehicle Multi-tasks Almost As Good As I Do”
So many vehicles have everything from navigation systems and MP3 players to heated seats and steering wheels. Then we plug in our cell phones, power adapters and curling irons! Gee, somehow we are not surprised that our batteries become partially discharged.
How To Extend Your Car Battery Life: Simple Suggestions:
- Have your battery checked regularly so that you can avoid it failing in a bad place. It is a simple free check that can save you a tow bill and a lot of frustration.
- Keep your battery clean. Grease can hold heat and corrosion on the terminals can add to electrical problems in your vehicle.
- Keep your battery cool. Well, this is next to impossible to do, but if you are able to park in the shade or inside of a cool garage your car will be a little cooler when you climb in and a little easier on your battery too.
- Always purchase a quality battery that meets factory specifications on your vehicle. While they will be more expensive they will last longer than a battery that does not fit correctly or does not carry enough amperage to start your vehicle.
- Always use caution with your car battery.
How to Clean Flagstone & Saltillo Tile
The professionals recommend a professional cleaning for your Flagstone and Saltillo tile and a light reseal every two to four years, depending on the foot traffic in your home to maintain its original beauty.
Did you know that water/moisture, dirt, dust and sunlight can affect the appearance of your tile? Saltillo and Flagstone are very porous so it is important to have your tile properly sealed.
It is recommended that you clean these tiles regularly with a broom, vacuum sweeper or dust mop to pick up dirt, dust, hair etc. that is commonly found in your home. These dirt or dust particles act like sandpaper on the surface of your tile, leaving a dull finish. Excess water can change the appearance of tile and grout by making them turn to darker looking finish.
Tile is often a big investment and should be professionally cleaned and sealed to maintain its original beauty.
Advanced Technology for Energy Efficient Windows
Today's window technology is more advanced than ever before due to manufacturers making energy efficiency, comfort, and security a priority.
Replacement windows can make your home more comfortable by reducing cooling and heating loss, reducing drafts, and reducing outside noise from entering your home. These windows can save you money every month by reducing your energy consumption and lowering your cooling and heating bills. Studies show that the average home can lose up to 30% of its cooling and heating energy through the windows. New high performance replacement windows prevent heat gain and loss by reflecting the heat and blocking UV rays. Therefore, keeping your home cooler and avoiding interior furnishings from fading due to UV rays. Read more to learn more about warranties and your return on this investment.
Additionally, replacement windows will improve the security of your home and add curb appeal.
If you are interested in installing replacement windows in your home, there is good reason to do so as soon as possible. In 2007 Remodeling Magazine's (remodeling.com) Cost versus Value report for replacement windows show replacing windows is one of the home improvements with the highest return on investments at 81%. This means you can gain value from your decision to replace your windows. Many window manufacturers offer long term or Lifetime Warranties so you may never need to replace your windows again.
- Benefits of Energy Efficient Windows
- Can Reduce Your Energy Bill Up To 30%
- Improve Security
- Let In Less Dust And Dirt For A Cleaner Living
- Provide Noise Reduction
- Add Curb Appeal
- Have Long Term Durability / Long Term Or Lifetime Warranties
Today's windows come in a variety of types, sizes, and colors. Many homeowners consider replacing a picture window with an opening window for added ventilation. Any number of configurations is possible.
Time to Talk “Tire Safety”
Summer is Right Around the Corner it’s Time to Talk “Tire Safety.”
Your first line of safety on your automobile is always your tires; let’s talk about what effect they have on all aspects of your vehicles operation. If you need to stop abruptly and everything in the brake system is good- the transferee of the braking energy takes place thru your tires, if they are good you will stop if they are not? This reaction continues thru all vehicle operations’ including cornering, acceleration, and basic drivability.
• Inflate
• Rotate
• Evaluate
Your tire’s natural enemy is Heat.
What can we do to help control the heat your tire is faced with everyday on Arizona Roads?
1. The first step is proper inflation, keeping the proper inflation as specified by your vehicle manufacturer will pay dividends not only in safety but also fuel mileage. An underinflated tire will create more friction and cause a larger build up of heat inside the tire this will result in creating a safety hazard and use more fuel to propel your auto. Proper inflation will reduce the drag which will reduce the heat buildup and enhance heat dissipation.
2. It is important to have your tires rotated every 5000 to 6000 miles, this will result in longer better tire mileage and provide you with a more consistent foot print on all four corners.
3. Evaluation of the tire’s integrity, when you are having your tires rotated, your tire professional should be checking for proper tire wear, damage to the tire casing such as bruises caused by hitting rocks or curbs. We do not ever hit curbs, however, if that were to happen - a tire failure could be right around the corner. The bruise or impact, combined with the heat will often in-time cause a tread separation later in the life of the tire. The lawyers would like you to believe all the tire casings on the side of the road were failures due to improperly built tires, this is just not the true, in most cases these casings were a result of under inflated tires, worn out, over loaded vehicles, or bruises that later turned into failures. Have safe enjoyable summer season.
Impact any Room in Your House
New paint can make a dramatic impact in any room of your home.
THE PDCA, Painting and Decorating Contractors of America, is helping to lead the charge to protect the earth and safe guard the environment. They actively promote the use of environmentally friendly project planning, surface preparation, proper painting and cleanup procedures. They support the development and use of new environmentally safer paints and coatings. The use of this material actually reduces pollution, providing testimony to the Environmental Protection Agency and promotion of proper disposal methods for waste and leftover paint and supplies.
Did you know that you are not permitted to:
- just throw away your left over paint in your regular garbage can? Be sure to check out your local household hazardous waste collection program, to help keep all of us safe.
There are programs in many areas where you can donate your leftover paints so that they can be reused or recycled.
Something to keep in mind prior to starting your painting project includes:
- Reduce the amount of leftover paint by trying to purchase the proper amount of paint needed to complete your task.
- Leftover paint should be stored properly to insure the life of your “touch-up paint”.
- Consider reusing or recycling paint.
- Proper disposal of paint is a must.
With proper planning and work habits, doing it the “green way”, by using environmentally friendly paints, we all benefit and protect our world for the future.
Being a homeowner is Part of the American Dream!
Making mortgage payments is like having a savings account that accumulates savings (equity) for the homeowner, not the landlord. Mortgage interest and property taxes are tax deductible, rent is not.
Home values appreciate each year making home ownership a wise financial decision putting value into your investment portfolio.
- As an example, let's look at the purchase of a $200,000 house putting 20% down ($40,000).
- At an appreciation rate of 5% annually, a $200,000 home would increase in value $10,000 the first year.
- That means the homeowner earned $10,000 in one year with just a $40,000 investment.
In fancier investment terms, that makes the ROI (Return on Investment) 25% the first year!
What stock or money fund has produced that kind of ROI in the last few years? Added to the appreciation value are the tax deductions allowed.
Let's assume the mortgage interest and property taxes on the $200,000 home are $15,000 in one year. That means the homeowner's taxable income is reduced by $15,000.
That's something significant to make any tax payer smile!
Regular Maintenance = Low Fuel Costs
Changing the engine oil according to the manufacturer's recommendations is one of the best ways to keep your vehicle in top operating condition and keep your fuel costs low.
- Oil lubricates the moving parts of the engine, preventing metal-to-metal contact, minimizing friction and carrying away excess heat – all of which promote better fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
You may end up paying more for other costly repairs, if your vehicle engine is regularly maintained.
Safety Tips for Summer Driving
If you have to DRIVE, don’t go alone!
Consider carpooling!
There are a number of websites available to help drivers save money and vehicle use by matching destinations. Some of the websites are:
http://www.erideshare.com, http://www.carpoolconnect.com, http://www.icarpool.com, and http://www.rideshareonline.com
Enjoy a break from the daily task of driving and sit back and relax while enjoying a commute with a friend. Make your daily commute shorter by enjoying the less congested HOV (high-occupancy vehicles) lanes and save money on gas!
- Keep the Interior of Your Car Cooler!
- Walk those few extra steps so that you can park under that tree. Park so that the sun will be shining on your rear window or passenger side for most of the time that it will be parked.
- Make Sure That You Service Your Vehicle
Items You Should Have in Your Car:
- Filled, spare tire
- First aid kit
- Extra water, for drinking and/or for the car.
- A small towel or handkerchief. If you don't have a windshield sunshade, put the towel on your seat before you leave the car so you can get in and sit down when you return.
- Snacks
- Cell phone and a charger so you can call if you get lost or get into trouble.
- Stay Safe and Enjoy the Summer!
Do You Know What To Do During a Tire Blowout?
The goal in any rapid loss of tire pressure or “blowout” is to keep the vehicle balanced and controllable. Do not panic. Any over-reaction by the driver – including slamming on the brakes or abruptly removing your foot from the accelerator – can result in a loss of vehicle control.
In any blowout situation, it’s important to remember the 2 things you should NOT do:
- Do not step on the brake. As instinctive as it may be, it’s the worst mistake you can make in any tire blow out situation. Applying the brakes will cause an even greater imbalance on the vehicle’s stability.
- Do not abruptly release your foot from the accelerator. This is the second worst mistake you can make. Rapidly releasing the accelerator causes the vehicle to transfer more of its weight from the rear tires to the front tires. With a flat tire, this can lead to loss of control of the vehicle.
Instead, in any blow out situation, you should follow these 3 steps:
- Gradually release the accelerator .
- Correct the steering as necessary to stabilize your vehicle and regain control. Look where you want the vehicle to go and steer in that direction.
- Once your vehicle has stabilized, continue to slow down and pull off the road where and when you judge it’s safe to do so.
Remember, no matter which tire blows out — front or back — the do’s and dont's for safely maintaining control of your vehicle are exactly the same. The only difference between a front and rear tire blow out is that you will feel the force of a front blow out more in the vehicle’s steering, while you'll feel a rear blowout more in the seat or body of the vehicle.
Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
Keep Your Pool Looking Sparkling Clean
Summer is approaching, and the weather is getting warmer everyday. Your pool can look pretty enticing to small children. Remember to always watch your children around the pool, make sure to latch your pool gates, and keep furniture away from your pool fencing.
Some POOL MAINTENANCE TIPS to keep your pool sparkling clear are:
- Emptying the basket of leaves and debris
- Adjusting your chorine/water chemistry
- Checking your filters regularly
Contact ToFixIt! today for any repairs or pool maintenance needs you may need this summer.
Blinds & Shutters are More Affordable Than You Think
Blinds and shutters are a wonderful addition to your home. Apart from looking stylish and giving your home a modern look, they act as great insulators in both cold and hot weather, offer much - needed privacy, protect furniture and flooring against our harsh desert sun. Avoid aluminum miniblinds as aluminum attracts heat, so those old miniblinds in your bedrooms are actually making your rooms hotter.
Blinds are offered a wide variety of styles, colors and materials such as:
- Wood blinds
- Roman shades
- Options including top-down- bottom up,
- Cordless
- Motorized controls
- Decorative tapes
- Valance
- Roller shades with your sports team logo are even available.
Shutters can be ordered in:
- 1. Composite,
- 2. Phoenixwood
- 3. Basswood materials with a variety of frame choices
Blinds and shutters do a great job at keeping the heat and sun out of your home which will prevent UV damage to furniture and flooring.
Most blinds are good choices for energy-efficiency, but some are better than others.
- Cellular shades provide the highest R value (resistance to heat/air conditioning) of all window treatments, earning up to a 4.81 out of 5 for its double-cell pocket protection and white backing that will reflect the heat back outside.
- Wood blinds with its natural insulation carries an R value of 3.2
- Shutters carries an R value of 3.4
- Roller shades with their numerous degrees of UV ray blockage are also good insulators for your windows.
- Avoid aluminum miniblinds as aluminum attracts heat, so those old miniblinds in your bedrooms are actually making your rooms hotter!
Blinds and shutters are much more affordable than most homeowners believe. At only a fraction of the cost of custom draperies, they provide years of stylish splendor to your home while reducing your heating and cooling costs.
Pool Barrier Products Give You Peace of Mind
Pool Fences:
Are you in the process of building a swimming pool, or are you an existing pool owner? There are a wide array of quality swimming pool barrier products to help you have a peace of mind, while you enjoy the safe use of your swimming pool year round.
One of the most popular products is a self-closing / self-latching devise for sliding glass doors. There are many other products that are available:
- Pool safety nets - offer benefits of keeping kids off the pool while providing total visibility of the water
- Removable mesh fencing - provides the option of fence removal for those few occasions when a permanent solution might not be needed
- Swimming pool barrier approved alarms
- Self-closing/self-latching swinging doors, gate springs and window locks
Check out Arizona City Pool Codes:
STATE OF ARIZONA
602-542-7333
How Often Do You Clean Your Drapes?
Most of us don't think about the drapes in our home.
- Did you know that your drapes act like filters in your home?
- They can trap all kinds of pollutants in the fabic.
- Experts recommend cleaning of your draperies every 2 years to prolong the life of your investment.
If you would like to learn more about the care of your draperies contact ToFixIt! today at 602-863-4948.
It’s Not Your Father’s Oldsmobile Anymore
It’s not your Father’s Oldsmobile anymore, and the tires have changed as much or more than the automobile.
Today you need to be concerned about things like UTQG “uniform tire Quality grading “ load range and Speed Ratings.
So how do you navigate thru all this very complicated information?
The most important aspect of tire maintenance is proper inflation of your tires.
Tire Maintenance:
- The most important aspect of tire maintenance is proper inflation of your tires.
- 75% of drivers wash their cars monthly
- only 1 out of 7 (14%) correctly checks tire pressure
- air pressure should be checked on all tires, including the spare, at least once a month
Regular rotation of your tires will also help prevent irregular and premature wear. 40% of drivers have not rotated their tires within the recommended interval of at least 8,000 miles. A healthy habit many people follow is to rotate their tires with every oil change.
Find the Tire and Service Dealer that has the knowledge and desire to make you a lifelong customer, providing you all the information in an understandable way. How do you find such a company? You want a company that can provide a vehicle alignment, free rotations, free tire repairs and a nationwide road hazard warranty. If a company cannot provide an alignment check how can you consider them as a partner in providing you the tire mileage you deserve?
Save this Summer with Sun Screens
It is estimated that about 48% of the heat enters your home through your windows!
Did you know by installing sun screens, this summer you can save:
- About 30% on your utility bill
- They also provide privacy
- Help cool your home by blocking the sun
Block the sun.. not the view.
Contact ToFixIt! today at 602-863-4948 to learn more great tips and suggestions.
Bathroom Remodels are a Great Investment
Did you know by remodeling your bathroom you can expect up to a 50% return on your Investment?
Porcelain tile is an inexpensive way to remodel your bathroom.
It has the same look and qualities of natural stone without the maintenance or expense.
Porcelain tiles usually have a much lower water absorption rate than non-porcelain tiles making them less likely to fog.
- It shouldn’t need to be replaced because it has a higher psi, meaning it does not crack or chip easily.
- It is suitable for any application from light traffic to the outdoor living space of your home.
- matte
- high polished
- unglazed finish
Potential Maintenance Issues for Your Pool
Enjoy peace of mind knowing that your pool not only looks great, but is safe to swim in this summer.
The warmer temperatures of spring are here and it is time for all pool owners to quickly evaluate potential maintenance issues needed before it is too late and too hot!
As water evaporates from your pool, it leaves behind all the calcium and minerals found in water. In time this will cause calcium levels high enough to create staining and deposits in the pool and will eventually make it very difficult to keep you chemicals balanced and the water clear. Pools typically need to be drained every 3-4 years (sometimes more often) and it needs to be done when the daytime temperatures are below 80-85 degrees. If you are already noticing staining and/or discoloration on the pool surface, an acid wash is the answer. Get your tile or water line area cleaned while the pool is empty and enjoy a swimming season with a bright, clean pool!
It will be important for pool owners to have their equipment checked and yearly maintenance done on:
- pump
- filter
- valves
- cleaning equipment
Old, dried o-rings will cause leaks that will inhibit proper circulation of the water and eventually will damage the equipment and incur costly repairs.
Enjoy your pool this summer.
Save Money Today with A/C Tune Up
An A/C Tune Up Can Save You HUNDREDS of Dollars.
Most people know that they should get a tune-up on their Air Conditioning system to make it run much more efficiently, much like a tune-up works on a car.
Yet, many people do not get tune-ups on their A/C system or their car. Why don’t people get them? Most people are afraid that getting a tune-up means expensive repairs that they don’t really need.
Often a tune-up does not require any repairs at all, and can be done within an hour and is often required for your warranty.
Of course, sometimes there will be suggested repairs but the technician should always get your permission before hand.
These are often small repairs that could:
- save you HUNDREDS on your utility bills over time
- greatly increase the life of your air conditioning unit.
C
Help Eliminate CO2 Emissions
Conserving energy is good for the environment and for your pocketbook too!
A typical 3-bedroom home with a Control system will eliminate over 850 pounds of CO2 emissions each year.
That’s like not driving a car for a month!
A mobile device can help you manage lighting and the temperature in your home.
Ahhhh… Breathe in the Fresh Paint?
Did you know that using Low VOC paints can reduce harmful vapors emitted into the air when painting your home? Some of the most harmful chemicals found in paint are volatile organic compounds, or VOCs. These chemicals aren't something you want to spray on your body or potentially even keep inside your house.
Som Benefits of Low VOC Paint:
- Low Levels of Toxins and Harmful Chemicals
- Protects the Air Quality in Your Home
- Adds Beauty and Value To any Living Environment
Sunscreens Can Reduce Your Cooling Costs by 25%
The economy is forcing all of us to look at ways to become more efficient with our dollars spent... so why not cut your energy bills immediately?
Did you know sunscreens can reduce your cooling costs by about 25%?
Sunscreens life span can be from 7 - 10 years from that one initial investment. Can you afford not to?
Before it gets too hot to handle... Think about the dollars you could be saving and the protection you would be giving to your furniture, carpets and floors and window treatments!
The sun’s rays can destroy our furniture and drapes.
Sunscreens can block up to 90% of those damaging rays!
Increase the Value of Your Home
Increase the value of your home by increase while enjoying the outdoors.
With most Americans feeling the pinch of a tough economy and a job market gone global, homeowners are increasingly looking to get more 'bang for their buck' from their residential investments. Many are looking outside their doors for inspiration.
Many families are entertaining in our:
- outdoor living rooms
- cooking in our outdoor kitchens
- conducting business in our outdoor offices
- even grooming in outdoor showers
The outdoor living boom has clearly moved from being 'just a trend' to a lifestyle, people are transforming their ordinary backyards into 'specialty rooms' complete with kitchens, bars, TVs and even heaters for cool nights. Flowers, shrubs and trees are being used as accents, room dividers, carpets and curtains.
Get Ready for April 15th, Tax Day
The tax code is over 16,000 pages long and there are numerous items to consider when preparing your taxes. No one likes to think about their taxes before it is time. However, with a little early preparation, tax time can be here and gone before you know it. With a little organization and planning before tax time, you can avoid many of the stresses and strains accompanying a rush to get your return filed on time.
Simple tax preparation guide:
1. Start by creating a 2009 tax folder for the important tax documents that normally arrive during the month of January. Some of these items are W2’s, 1099’s, and 1098’s. Other forms arrive with your monthly bill or statement so be sure not to accidently throw them away. For example, most banks are now inserting the year end 1098 mortgage interest statement in the same envelope as your January mortgage bill.
2. This year with all the foreclosures, repossessions, and cancellation of debt those individuals will need to let their preparer know because you should get a tax form from your lender for these.
3. Calculate any donations made to qualifying charities or churches. These can be cash or non-cash, such as clothing donation made to Goodwill.
4. Gather and add receipts for medical, work, education, and moving expenses. Don’t forget taxes paid to the state such as auto registration and property tax.
5. If you have a rental property or business you will need to summarize a list of income and expenses for each property or business.
6. Once you have everything it’s time to make an appointment with your tax preparer.
Time To Convert Turf To Xeriscape
Trying to maintain a healthy lawn can be frustrating for several reasons in our harsh desert climate. It is a process that requires your time, money, and commitment to weekly mowing and care. If you let up it doesn’t take long to see all your efforts disappear quickly. You can convert your turf over to a xeriscape landscape. Start saving now!
Reasons why I should consider removing my lawn:
- A lawn can use up to 35,000 gallons of water, per year, per 1000 Sq. Ft.
- Xeriscape with proper planting of trees and shrubs can cut cooling cost by as much as 46%.
- A Big Time Saver.
- Return on investment is about 5 to 8 years.
- Xeriscape landscape uses one-half to two-thirds less water.
- Raises Property Value.
- Improved Air quality.
- Reduces Allergies.
Do You Have the Window Blues?
Do you have the window blues?
Aren't quite sure how to cover those tiny or huge windows? Why not consider adding that WOW factor today.
An easy solution for those windows you just are quite sure how to cover for appeal or privacy, shutters can be a great option to consider.
Shutters are one of the types of window coverings that will add value to your home. Unlike blinds and shades, shutters are considered a permanent fixture and will increase your home's worth.
Shutters are available in a huge variety of styles and colors to match your home's decor and price range.
To learn about more options available contact ToFixIt! at 602-863-4948 to locate a recommended shutter company.
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Good Health, Good Nervous System
The Nervous System is Vitally Important to Our Health & Well Being.
Chiropractic is a branch of the healing arts that is based upon the fact that good health depends upon a healthy relationship between the nervous system and the spinal column. The practice of chiropractic deals with the concept of interference with normal nerve transmission and expression. It is based on the fact that abnormal functions of the body can be caused by abnormal pressure or irritation of the nervous system by various body structures.
Gray’s Anatomy states that, “the nervous system’s function is to control and coordinate “all” the other organs and structures and to relate the individual to his environment.”
Yes, the nervous system is vitally important to our health and well being. In many cases the nervous system should be evaluated first before taking drugs or surgery, the last alternative.
Treatment (The Adjustment)
An adjustment that the Chiropractor administers to a vertebra of the spine is called “an adjustment.”
• The adjustment of displaced vertebrae interfering with normal nerve supply and causing a disturbance to the nervous system is the major treatment. The adjustment is performed by hand and in some instances, by a hand-held device as the patient is lying face down on a specially designed table.
The Chiropractor relates various levels of the spinal column to various organs and conditions. For example:
• If tenderness is found at the base of the skull, it may be related to headaches, sinus problems or to the jaw.
• Lower down in your neck may be found misaligned vertebra that relate to pain, tingling or numbness in your shoulder, arm or hands.
• Chest and stomach problems may have a displacement of the bones between the shoulder blades.
• Lower back pain can cause tingling down the leg and numbness (sciatica) as well as abdominal, bladder and prostate problems because of the same nerve supply.
Orthopedic and neurological testing is a part of a chiropractic examination to arrive at the underlying cause of your problem.
Health Check List:
Take just two minutes to check for any symptoms you may have. Following an accident, always get checked by a Chiropractor to avoid future, possible serious health problems. If you have any symptoms call immediately for an appointment.
__Migraine headache __ Ache all over
__Numbness in limbs __ Fatigue
__Stiff or painful neck __Bursitis
__Nausea __Neuritis
__Dizziness __Tendinitis
__Double vision __Loss of neck motion
__Painful back __Blackouts
__Muscle spasm __Muscle swelling
__Nervousness __Night blindness
__Tingling in limbs __Loss of balance
__Insomnia __Loss of hearing
__Pinched nerves __Cold hands or feet
__Ringing in ears __Shortness of breath
__Poor circulation __Poor memory
__Mental dullness __Anxiety
__Tremors __Eye strain
__Rapid heart beat __Period of depression
__Constipation __Diarrhea
__Early arthritis __Any change from pre-accident
__Tension condition.
Mini Exam At Home:
• A simple visual check may be done to reveal possible spinal misalignments. In front of a mirror, stand up straight with your arms relaxed, looking straight ahead. Is your head tilted to one side? We become so accustomed to our everyday appearance we rarely notice asymmetry.
• Look at the level of your shoulders. Is one shoulder higher than the other?
• Next, look at your hip level. Compare each side at the top of your hip bone. Is one side higher than the other? Do you have your clothes altered because of a “short leg”?
- Ask a family member to view you from behind. Turn your head to the right and left. Are you able to turn further one way than the other? Are your shoulders symmetrical? Does one shoulder blade protrude? Do the muscles seem to be bulkier on one side? Is one knee slightly bent when you are standing?
- Many times, deviations such as those above can be the source of aches and pain.
It is possible to have structural deviations without pain, but sooner or later, they will usually cause pain and are one of the major causes of osteoarthritis and other degenerative diseases.
Find Your “Dream” Home
Are you ready to look and purchase your "Dream" home.
10 Ways to Prepare for Homeownership:
1. Decide what you can afford. Generally, you can afford a home equal in value to between two and three times your gross income.
2. Develop your home wish list. Then prioritize the features on your list.
3. Select where you want to live. Compile a list of three or four neighborhoods you’d like to live in, taking into account items such as schools, recreational facilities, area expansion plans, and safety.
4. Start Saving. Do you have enough money saved to qualify for a mortgage and cover your down payment? Ideally, you should have 20 percent of the purchase price saved as a down payment. Also don’t forget to factor in closing costs. Closing costs- including taxes, attorney’s fee, and transfer fees – average between 2 and 7 percent of the home price.
5. Get your credit in order. Obtain a copy of your credit report to make sure it is accurate and to correct any errors immediately. A credit report provided history of your credit, bad debts, and any late payments.
6. Determine your mortgage qualifications. How large of a mortgage do you qualify for? Also explore different loan options – such as 30-year or 15-year fixed mortgages or ARMS – and decide what’s best for you.
7. Get pre-approved. Organize all the documentation a lender will need to pre-approve you for a loan. You might need W-2 forms, copies of at least one pay stub, account numbers, and copies of two to four months of bank or credit union statements.
8. Weigh other sources of help with a down payment. Do you qualify for a special mortgage or down payment assistance programs? Check with your state and local government on down payment assistance programs for first time buyers. Or, if you have an IRA account, you can use the money you’ve saved to buy your first home without a penalty for early withdrawal.
9. Calculate the costs of homeownership. This should include property taxes, insurance, maintenance and utilities, and association fees, if applicable.
Maintain the Look of Your Car
Summer Car-Care Tip
With the summer heat and dry weather in Arizona, it is very important to polish and wax your vehicle to maintain the new car look as well as paint durability. Also remember summer time is leather treatment time. Leather will dry out and crack if not properly maintained, so be sure to apply the proper treatment.
Beat the Heat With Strong Insulation
With summer right around the corner and the hot Arizona temperatures on the rise, now is a good time to give your home a summer tune-up. One of the most important and commonly over looked components of your homes defense against these high temperatures is the insulation in your attic.
Did you know that insulation acts as a blanket or barrier between the interior of your home and the super heated air in your attic?
Just by re-insulating and ventilating that space you can:
Save hundreds of dollars per year and
Get a tax credit too
It’s fast
Inexpensive (most homes take just a few hours)
Add years to the life of your air conditioner not to mention the comfort level of the home.
Don’t put it off another summer, remember last year’s cooling bill? Keep your cool and save money.
Social Networking Safety Tips
The popularity of social networking is growing among kids.
Social networking sites can provide a secure way for kids to connect with each other, but they can also be exploited.
Parents should be diligent and take steps to keep their kids safe online and save money by cutting down on malicious software that can be harmful to your computer.
- Use content filtering software to protect your child and computer
- Maintain a log of where they have been
- Require your password based permission, to continue on, to a specific website
- Set privacy settings
- Surf with them - set up an account in the same social networks
- Learn about the Federal laws
Reverse Osmosis System Saves You Money
A reverse osmosis system saves you money!
- by eliminating the cost of bottled water
- It’s cleaner
- better tasting
- helps save the environment
- just one cost for all the water you want
Americans drink twice as much bottled water today as they did ten years ago.
Bottled water costs almost two thousand times more than regular tap water.
When you purchase your own Reverse osmosis system, you can be confident that the water is pure!
This can be done:
- for less than thirteen cents a gallon.
- Compare that to a twelve once bottle of water for more than one dollar.
Extend the Life of Your Gates
There are many things to consider when you are thinking about making an investment of a new gate. You should research to find the type of gate that suits your purpose. Do you want do you want to keep children and pets inside, intruders outside or is it just for decoration? There are a variety of gate sizes and materials to choose from.
Depending on the type of material you are using it is important to learn how to maintain the gate to extend its life expectancy.
Wood gates are beautiful but will require:
- regular painting
- staining to protect it from the elements
- the added weight of paint and varnish can make the gate heavy and loosen the wood fittings over the years
- in many ornate finishes
- can be expensive
Save Money and Energy Today
Let’s face it- everyone is looking for ways to cut existing bills without feeling the pinch. Air Duct Cleaning can be one of the home maintenance projects that not only results in the obvious, cleaner healthier indoor air, but also results in savings on power bills and can extend the life of your HVAC system.
The State of Arizona estimates that up to 33% of heating and cooling costs are directly attributable to duct leakage.
The leakage, usually found in the seams and joints of the ducts, is sealed as part of air duct cleaning performed to NADCA (The National Air Duct Cleaners Association) Standards.
Proper sealing will:
- Keep your insulation out of the air stream in your home, and in the attic where it belongs.
- Reduce the time you spend dusting and vacuuming attic dust and migrating insulation fibers.
- Keep cooled and heated directed into your home, rather than your attic, saving money on power bills.
- Reduce your allergies caused by dust, allergens and insulation leaking into your home.
The NADCA Standard ACR 2006 also requires acid washing the coils on the HVAC unit, which will reduce the resistance caused by a dirt and debris build-up.
This important maintenance procedure:
- Extends the life of the A/C unit, one of the most expensive investments in your home.
- Restores the original efficiency (SEER) of the unit, saving money on power bills.
- Prevents recontamination of clean ducts with the dirt and debris trapped there.
- WWW.nadca.com has a free checklist for homeowners to maximize your savings by getting a complete duct cleaning. Make sure your duct cleaning company is NADCA Certified to get the job done right! There shouldn’t ever be an extra charge to do a complete cleaning (including the coils).
The HVAC system in your home is the “heart and lungs” of your home. Keeping your system clean will result in a much healthier environment for you and your family, while saving money on your energy bills and keeping your insulation in place where it belongs.
Do You Have a Weed Problem?
With all of the rain Arizona has received this past winter the weeds are in full bloom.
Now is the time to call your landscaper to get rid of all those little unwanted, green pests and prepare your lawn for the hot Arizona summer weather. This is the best time to have your property cleaned up, remove, spray weeds and prune some of those plants.
There are many other things to keep in mind when it comes to landscape maintenance.
Do you have the proper clearance between your home and the plants, trees and weeds? Don’t forget all of those weeds can present a fire danger if there is not sufficient fire break. Not to mention, these untamed areas make a great home for all of those little bugs, snakes and scorpions.
Have you had your lawn de thatched, aerated or plugged?
Thatch is a layer, usually out of site, of the combination of grass stems, roots, clippings, and other types of debris that settle on the ground which often accumulates over a period of time.
Thatch is often the result of grass areas that have never been aerated. Because of the sandy soil typically found in Arizona it is recommended that your lawn should be aerated once a year, either Spring or Fall.
Give Yourself a Tax Break
What to do with Your Green?
Give yourself a tax break.
Most people believe income taxes will go up in the near future. One current way to protect yourself from being at the mercy of tax legislation is to open and fund your own Roth IRA. Any money you put in plus all of its earnings can be withdrawn, if done properly, income tax free.
Some tax planning now could benefit you tremendously in retirement.
- Invest in a child
- Give your daughter, son, grandchild, niece, or nephew the gift of a college education. College is becoming a pre-requisite to employment. There are tax advantaged ways to invest and save for the increasing costs of college. This could be a gift that keeps on giving for someone you love.
- Increase your worth by giving it away. A fundamental practice of people who are the happiest and most fulfilled in life is giving a portion of their money away on a planned, consistent basis. If you are not practicing this, you are robbing yourself of one of life’s ultimate gifts.
- Pay off your debts
- Remove the undue stress and bondage debt creates in your life. Currently many people are experiencing just how much control you give to a bank or credit card company when you use their money.
- Take back control of your hard earned dollars and feel the rewards of freedom from debt.
- Be grateful for the “green” you receive
Green Cleaning for Your Health
Did you know that solvents, which are in many household cleaners (to cut through grease, for example) can cause a broad range of neurological damage, from as mild as headaches to as serious as dementia? One example is 2-butoxyethanol (also known as 2-butyl). It is in over 200 household products that families have trusted for years. Yet the EPA has identified 2-butyl as having potential effects on blood, the central nervous system, kidneys and liver. Read more to learn about safe “Green” cleaning solutions to help your family stay healthy.
Hiring a green home cleaning service is about more than convenience and time-savings. Green cleaning is about protecting you and your family’s health, while ensuring your home is a clean and relaxing environment - something we all need with today’s hectic pace!
Even products that are non-toxic and biodegradable can create health risks. One problem with cleaning chemicals is that exposure can occur from inhalation and skin absorption, not just consumption. Another is that our families are exposed to these on a regular basis. Also, our body can’t purge all these chemicals and small exposures can add up to larger ones through accumulation.
Anyone can clean green with just a little effort. You can use everyday products found in your kitchen pantry.
Here are some common items that are great green alternatives to protect your family’s health and still maintain a clean home.
- Baking soda
- Vinegar
- A mixture of vinegar, laundry detergent and hot tap water creates a great tile cleaner
- Combine vinegar and baking soda to produce a healthy alternative to traditional toilet bowl cleaning solutions
Are Your Locks Outdated?
What’s the one thing I should do to improve my home’s security? Unfortunately, the answer isn’t so simple. All home and homeowner needs are different. However, there are three items that we routinely recommend when we are conducting Homeowner Security Assessments.
- Evaluate all door hardware greater than two years old. This door hardware is susceptible to lock bumping, an intrusion technique that has been widely shared over the internet. New locks have technologies that prevent this type of home attack and cost no more than other locks.
- Install a Charley Bar on all sliding glass doors. Wooden dowels placed on door tracts can be wiggled out. A Charley bar is securely attached to both the glass door and door frame when in the locked position.
- Lastly, it is highly recommend that all homeowners have a fire safe. Though documents and possessions lost in a home fire can eventually be replaced, family mementoes can never be.
To ensure the safety and integrity of your home, contact ToFixIt today and learn more about low-cost Home Security Assessments to homeowners.
Security Assessments are an inexpensive way to identify weak points in your home’s security and to fully understand what actions are necessary to correct them.
Is your home or office really protected?
It has been said that the best defense is a good offense. This statement is true when it comes to your home or business security system. A carefully designed and installed security system is a great first line of defense when protecting your family, your belongings, and your assets.
Did you know that having a monitored security system could save you money on your homeowners insurance? What a great way to save money and add to the safety and security of your family or business.
Every home or building is different, therefore requiring different security needs. At Components, we take all of these factors into consideration when designing and installing your security system. Our goal is to help you create a good offense, defending you and your belongings from possible intruders.
Call ToFixIt! today to learn more about home security.
Spring Cleaning and Allergies
SPRING MEANS “Spring cleaning” and Allergies --ARE YOU PREPARED?
The season for sniffles, watery eyes and sneezing is fast approaching, and so is the season for spring cleaning!
Is there anything you can do to alleviate the symptoms of seasonal allergies? Absolutely--the answer is to allergy-proof your home. While not always easy, allergy-proofing your home is well worth your effort and doing it “green” with natural products is easier than you may think.
Both mold and mildew contribute to seasonal allergies.
Allergens like these can lead to year-round allergy symptoms which can make you, your family, and your pets, miserable.
Both are living organisms that require:
- moisture
- food source to exist
Over the years, three natural ingredients have been found that significantly reduce mold and mildew:
- Tea tree oil
- grapefruit seed extract
- vinegar
Mold spores will not grow if there is no moisture present. Even though “it’s a dry heat” in Arizona, we still have moisture in the air! Keep humidity levels in your home low, clean humidifiers and change air filters frequently, and ventilate the kitchens and bathrooms properly. These measures will all help to curtail new growth.
Even if you don’t use a professional cleaning company to clean your home, you should use a vacuum with a high-efficiency HEPA filter that will help remove dirt, dust and allergens rather than spread them around.
Use it to vacuum:
- floors,
- upholstered furniture
- draperies
- for bedding
- including pillows
- mattresses
- duvet covers
- box springs
Protect Your Trees and Plants Against Frost
Surprisingly, it does get cold enough in our Phoenix desert to freeze. Nighttime temperatures that get down to freezing and below will damage many trees and plants if you don't take precautions against freezing and frost.
Low temperatures, that can harm frost-sensitive plants, may begin in late November and continue through February and beyond. We might have between 7 and 10 nights where the temperatures go below freezing damaging many plants and trees.
Things to Know About Frost:
Know which plants are sensitive to frost. Some of the most common frost-sensitive plants in the Phoenix area are Ficus, Bougainvillea, Hibiscus, Natal Plum, Cape Honeysuckle and Red Bird of Paradise. Many people have citrus trees, and they can be frost sensitive. Non-native cactus plants may also be at risk. If your plants are new or actively growing they probably need frost-protection.
If you have frost-sensitive plants in your yard, plant them in the most favorable places to minimize winter frost. The south or west sides of the property, near the pool, close to block walls, rocks or concrete that retains heat from the daytime sun, or under roof overhangs, eaves or patio extensions (but not in full shade). Plant them in a place where there's likely to be more protection and more warmth.
To protect plants and trees from frost damage:
• They need to be covered. Use sheets, light blankets or burlap. Do not use plastic to cover your plants. Plastic tarps trap the moisture and damage the plant. Don't use heavy cloth or blankets, they soak up moisture, become very heavy and can damage the plant. The best way to cover a plant or tree is to make sure that your cover touches the ground. This helps retain heat.
• In the winter always water your plants and trees in the morning. That way the leaves will be dry by the time it starts to get cold at night. Don't over water.
• If frost gets to your plant, don't remove the damaged parts. Those dead branches and leaves provide protection for the part of the plant that is still alive. You can prune frost damaged plants in the early spring.
Things you should do NOW. Fertilize, Shape, and Remove dead (trees and branches)
Trees/Shrubs
• Fertilize fruit, nut and shade trees, shrubs and vines.
• Pecan trees and grape vines need a zinc rich fertilizer to help them produce their best.
• Now is the time for shaping citrus trees and cleaning out the dead wood. Try to let the citrus foliage grow to about knee high. The best fruit is produced on the lower two thirds of the tree so raising the skirt reduces the amount of the fruit you will get.
• Remove any suckers growing from below the graft.
• Shape your ornamental shrubs so the new spring growth will fill in the bare branches and holes left from pruning.
• Fertilize Queen Palms. The growing season is coming quick so it is important to
have the necessary nutrients in the ground for them to utilize.
For more information on the above checklist or many more safety tips call our qualified Tree Care Service contractors today.
Learn an Easy Way to Lower your Energy Bill
One of the main reasons for higher energy bills, especially in the summer time is lack of attic insulation.
Adding insulation to any structure is one of easiest and most cost effective ways of lowering these bills.
As a rule of thumb you should have at least 12 to 24 inches of insulation in your attic.
Basically if you can see the tops of the boards in your attic, your insulation is poor!
Here are some things to look at in your attic, which would indicate that you might need more insulation.
Experts recommend that all of these areas are not visible to the naked eye.
- Duct work,
- Plumbing pipes
- Cold air returns
Save Money this Summer with Window Tinting Film
Have you ever thought about adding Window Tinting Film to your Windows?
- They can block 99.9 percent of ultraviolet rays
- Lower your home’s interior temperature by about 10 percent
- Reduce that glare on your TV
- Help prolong the life of your carpeting
- Protect wall coverings
- Prolong life of your furniture
- Provide privacy
- Provide security
Are Your Cleaning Products Making You Sick?
Did you know that scientist have linked many of the chemicals in traditional cleaning products to:
1. Asthma
2. Allergies
3. Other illnesses
Your family and pets can be exposed to toxic household chemicals through inhalation and skin absorption, not just by consumption.
If you would like any other information about companies who use "Green Certified Products" call ToFixIt! today at 602-863-4948.
We All Know What Follows The Holiday Season ...Tax Season
The tax code is over 16,000 pages long and there are numerous items to consider when preparing your taxes.
No one likes to think about their taxes before it is time.
However, with a little early preparation, tax time can be here and gone before you know it. With a little organization and planning before tax time, you can avoid many of the stresses and strains accompanying a rush to get your return filed on time.
- 1. Start by creating a 2011 tax folder for the important tax documents that normally arrive during the month of January. Some of these items are W2’s, 1099’s, and 1098’s. Other forms arrive with your monthly bill or statement so be sure not to accidently throw them away. For example, most banks are now inserting the year end 1098 mortgage interest statement in the same envelope as your January mortgage bill.
- 2. This year with all the foreclosures, repossessions, and cancellation of debt those individuals will need to let their preparer know because you should get a tax form from your lender for these.
- 3. Calculate any donations made to qualifying charities or churches. These can be cash or non-cash, such as clothing donation made to Goodwill.
- 4. Gather and add receipts for medical, work, education, and moving expenses. Don’t forget taxes paid to the state such as auto registration and property tax.
- 5. If you have a rental property or business you will need to summarize a list of income and expenses for each property or business.
- 6. Once you have everything it’s time to make an appointment with your tax preparer.
Your Door Is A Key Focal Point Of Your Home
New doors make a big difference to the appearance of your home. A door is a key focal point and improves curb appeal. There are so many styles and materials to choose from to get the desired look you want.
Doors also serve other important purposes. They provide security and will keep scorpions, spiders and other pests from entering your home.
If a door is sealed properly, it will increase your home's energy efficiency and save money on your energy bill.
Keep in mind that you still could receive a $1500 dollar tax credit on qualifying energy efficient doors but this credit ends soon, so now is a great time to buy a new front door.
To learn more about other tax credits and many other reliable service providers, contact ToFixIt!
Are You Ready For A New Look Without Starting Over?
Try cabinet Refacing. It’s a less expensive option that still offers the same result: a beautiful new kitchen.
Cabinet refacing can be done much faster and for a lower investment than replacing with all new cabinets. A complete kitchen remodel can take anywhere from 1-3 weeks, but with refacing you can have a brand new kitchen in 3-5 days while you sit back and relax!
Refacing can be done without disturbing your existing countertops, plumbing or floor. With cabinet refacing you get all new doors and drawer fronts in addition to new crown moulding, toe kicks, and scribe.
Refacing updates the look of your kitchen simply by changing the appearance of your existing cabinets. No need to make modifications to your cabinet boxes, plumbing, electrical, ceiling, or floor.
Cabinet Refacing is entirely sized, manufactured and installed to the exact specifications of your existing cabinetry. Refacing can be done in wood or thermo-foil and is available in an array of wood types, door styles, and colors. You can also add to or modify your existing cabinets to meet your needs or add any special touches to improve the style/functionality of your kitchen.
There are dozens of door styles for you to make your selection. Refacing can be done in combination with personal touches including valances, appliance garages, wine racks, islands, open shelving and more to transform your existing kitchen into the beautiful kitchen of your dreams!
To learn more about cabinet refacing contact ToFixIt! today at 602-863-4948.
Tips To A Stress Free Get Away!
Leaving home to relieve stress can be accomplished if you follow some of these key steps.
- Leave your porch light on in the evenings and alternate lamp lighting throughout the home.
- Make sure all newspapers and mail are brought in to ensure the outside world you have never left.
- Hire a pet sitter to watch your furry family members while you are away. A great pet sitter will also double as a great house sitter. You may even get some light cleaning and laundry done without lifting a finger.
Holidays – More Than Money
Prioritize
What do you enjoy most about the holidays?... the conversations, the gifts, the parties, the family, the church services, the food, the friends, the games, the prayer, the travel, the shopping, the hot chocolate and apple cider, the snow… Take time to discuss and write out all of the things you enjoy about the holidays. Then, list them in order of most important to least. You will be amazed at how this simple exercise can enhance your spirit.
Plan
Now that you are clear about what is most enjoyable to you, plan for those experiences first. Now that you’ve completed that, let’s touch briefly on money.
- Create a spending plan. This is where you will determine what you will buy and for whom you will buy for. When creating this plan keep in mind that the gift of gathering and companionship may mean more to someone that any ‘thing’ you could buy for them. Another idea is that people remember forever the gifts that are made just for them.
- Before heading out to the stores, do a little homework online to find the best deals.
- Have an agenda when you hit the stores. This will empower you to not be persuaded by the advertising tactics stores use to get you to buy more than you came for.
- Use cash you already have. Set aside money ahead of time so that you don’t end up “giving” the credit card company an even larger gift. If you don’t have the money; don’t spend it. There are many gifts you can give that don’t require money.
Enjoy
Now that your planning is complete, relax and let things happen. Enjoy the experience graciously giving to those you love and care about. If you have done the previous two steps you will have a lot less stress and you will have prepared your mind, body, and emotions to take in every moment and enjoy the memories that will be made.
Have Gratitude
Remember and intentionally think about all that we have to be thankful for. Many things that we call “standard of living” is really quite a luxury.
You can create memories that continue longer than a lifetime. All of us with ToFixIt wish you a truly wonderful holiday season! Call ToFixIt! today at 602-863-4948 to learn more tips from our financial company.
“Tis The Season” To Be Outside With Family And Friends
We are just entering the time when we Arizonans start bragging about our weather. (We are a pretty silent bunch during the summer!)
But now with the warm days and the cool evenings and months of great weather ahead of us there seems to be an optimism in the air. The holiday season and great weather means that friends and family are getting together to celebrate and relax. This is a great time to make sure your yard looks nice. It's not hard and there are months of payoff ahead. Here are a few things you can do to make your yard a perfect place to enjoy the holidays with friends.
- Plant Flowers Now - Most people wait till spring to plant flowers but they are missing out. Now is a great time. Your flowers will grow through the winter and when spring comes they will take off! They will become massive and beautiful now through Memorial Day. A little color adds a lot to a yard.
- Winter Lawn - Nothing beats the beautiful green of new winter lawns. In addition, to keeping the dead summer grass from tracking in your home, the winter lawn is a brilliant color and in many ways is the best lawn you will see all year. If you have a winter lawn in already, you probably had some starter fertilizer put in with it. Now is the time to add some Nitra-King fertilizer to the lawn. This will kick in the deep dark green that we all love to see
If you don't have a winter lawn then around Thanksgiving is the time to cut off your water to your lawn. Your lawn is dormant and is not benefitted at all by the water. All you are doing is helping the weeds to grow! So save your water and your lawn.
- Spruce Up - Finally, don't underestimate the value a little "sprucing up" will do. Trimming the bushes, cleaning out the leaves and debris from the rocks and bushes, general clean up and pick up just makes your yard and you happy!
Easy Ways To Help Protect The Exterior Of Your Car
Did you know that living in our great state can be rather harsh on your vehicles exterior finish? The intense sun along with desert storms and pollution can actually cut the life expectancy of your cars paint, leaving it dull and lifeless.
Washing your vehicle weekly and waxing your car or truck regularly (1-2 times a year) will actually prolong its finish. Keep in mind, not all automotive paint is the same.
Do some investigating when choosing a company, so you can rest assured your vehicles paint will hold up to the elements in which we live in.
When choosing an Auto Body Repair Shop, be sure to ask for PPG Pro-Line Paint and don’t forget to use quality car care products when caring for your cars finish.
So, if your vehicles finish is looking short of spectacular or you’ve been in an accident, call To FixIt! today at 602-863-4948 to learn more information about a company that specialies in Car Trained and Certified appraisers who will be happy to assist you and answer any questions you may have.
Writing Effective Job Postings
Here are some tips to help you stand out from the crowd and recruit the best, most qualified candidates for your jobs today.
1. Getting Started
- Use an Appropriate & Catchy Job Title
- If the title of your position is truly Clerk 4.21, think about spicing it up a bit so that candidates will be engaged with your position immediately.
- Who are you?
- Tell the candidate the name of your company and what specifically your company does. Think of this as your opportunity to spark some interest in the candidate beyond a generic interest in a job title.
- What position are you hiring?
- Finish your statement about your company by reiterating what position you are hiring and the reason. Is it due to growth, recent promotion, etc?
- What will this position do, day-to-day?
- When you’re drafting your job posting be sure to include the top five most relevant duties and indicate that the position may include other duties as defined by the scope of the position.
- It’s time to motivate - What’s cool about your company?
- Every company has something that makes it a cool place to work. Your cool factor may be one of your benefits, it may be your office location, or it may be an employee’s ability to bring their dog to work.
- On to the details
- This is your wish list. Start with the highest priority and work your way down to the “nice to haves; but not required.”
- Sell ‘Em Some More
- Use the important notes section to let the candidate know what benefits you’re offering them. Take the time (and the space) to list your benefits so the job seeker knows what you do and do not provide.
- Provide Clear Direction
- If the job seeker needs to provide you with additional details about their background, a portfolio, etc., list those details here so that the job seeker will know what is expected of them.
- Don’t Be Afraid to List a Pay Range
- You don’t need to be specific about the salary or hourly rate of the position. However offering a pay range will help you qualify candidates so that you do not have over-qualified candidates applying for your positions or an hourly candidate applying for a high-end exempt position.
Let’s Talk About The Air Quality - Inside Your Home
Our homes typically contain the unhealthiest air that we are exposed to on a regular basis. Though not everyone is sensitive to air born pollutants and irritants, poor indoor air quality may still be affecting your health.
- A lot of homes have very poor ventilation. Bathrooms and kitchens often have undersized or defective exhaust fans that don’t clear out fumes and particulates as quickly or effectively as they should.
- Many building materials such as paint, carpet and cabinets are major sources of formaldehyde and other VOCs (volatile organic compounds) that can trigger asthma attacks, weaken your immune system or even contribute to cancer and other major health problems.
- Cleaning products, bug sprays, pool/spa chemicals often contain nasty stuff. If a product has a strong chemical smell, it’s probably not good for you.
- Mold, asbestos, radon, even pet hair can be at dangerous levels in your home without you even knowing about it. Dust is extreme in Arizona which can cause all kinds of health problems.
The concern is that the cumulative effect of being exposed to harmful substances over a period of time is a major cause of illness. The quality of your life and your family’s is directly affected by indoor pollutants.
- 1) Select organic or “green” cleaning products when available. If you have a cleaning service, check to see what kind of products they use or switch to a cleaning service that uses low toxicity products. Store chemicals outside of the living space whenever possible.
- 2) If you suspect that you have a water leak in your roof or plumbing, get it taken care of before mold invades your home.
- 3) Replace your a/c filters regularly. Clean exhaust fans and ceiling fans, the space under and behind your fridge and vacuum your air returns. Get your air ducts cleaned if you can see a buildup of dust when you change your filters.
- 4) If you are remodeling or getting other work done on your house, discuss whether the work can be done with healthier products and materials. This can sometimes increase the initial project cost but is beneficial in the long run.
Some steps may even be tax deductible!!
Learn how to make your home a healthier place to live, please contact ToFixIt! today at 602-863-4948 to find a company in your area.
Maintenance Is A Crucial Part Of Home Ownership
Home maintenance is a crucial part of home ownership, it’s important to inspect your home regularly, inside and out. Make your own checklist, customized to your home. Your checklist will help familiarize you with changing conditions and give you the chance to make repairs early and save money.
We all think we can save a lot of money if we “do it ourselves”. And even if you are handy around the house, there may be some jobs you just shouldn’t try to handle yourself. For the larger jobs or to simply take care of that large list of small projects, you may want to consider hiring a professional.
These are just a few home maintenance advice from the experts.
Gutters and Downspouts
- Check for debris in gutters and downspouts, make sure all downspout extensions stay in the down position so roof drainage will not pond along the foundation of your home.
Touch Up / Replace Cracked Caulking
- Check all doors and windows, interior and exterior also check countertops, toilets, tubs, showers, etc. There are many types of caulking to choose from
- A handyman can advise you on exactly the right type for your job.
Sprinkler systems and Hose Bibs
- While you activate your sprinkler system, be sure to check all valves above ground and underground to be sure there are no leaks. Repair all leaks prior to using the system to prevent damage to your home. Exterior faucets (hose bibs) should be checked for leaks as well, if any attachments were connected to the hose bib during the winter months, these attachments may cause the hose bib to freeze and split (break) inside the wall. This could cause major damage inside your home when the hose bib is turned on. The hose bibs will generally not leak until turned on, most of the time you cannot see this from the exterior of your home.
- To extend the life of your wood decks and fences you should power wash, stain and seal them. This should be done at least once every year, usually in the spring or early summer. This will help preserve the beauty of the wood and extend the life of your deck or fence.
Exterior Finishes
- Paint takes a lot of abuse from the sun and the elements. It is important to repaint your homes exterior when it is needed. Repaint before you say to yourself “I should have painted last year”, by then it may be too late. When you can see exterior paint start to peel or oxidize, it will cost you more to paint your home than if you used preventive planning.
Call ToFixIt! today, at 602-863-4948 to find your local handyman.
How To Shop Smart For New Flooring
Shopping for new flooring for the holidays? Shop smart! Start with a reputable retail flooring company. They can help with each step of the process, to help determine which flooring best meets your lifestyle, maintenance, and budget requirements and to ensure you have the best warranties available.
Are you casual and outgoing? Or do you prefer structure and formality? Maybe you have a bold imagination that's fired by modern images. Whatever your personality type, your home…your floors can tell a lot about you. Fashions change, but personalities are stable. You can always add accessories and area rugs to reflect your changing tastes.
Bring your floor plan with you along with any material samples from the rooms you are redoing: fabric and paint swatches and countertop, cabinetry, and hardware samples. A tape measure can also be helpful, especially if you are planning to purchase a remnant or a material that has limited stock available.
Finally, don't be intimidated. It's your home. It's your treasure. Make it about you. All the work you put into it will give you wonderful results.
Contact ToFixIt! at 602- 863-4948 today to learn more about any of your flooring needs today or in the future.
If You Have An A/C Problem - Should It Be Repaired Or Replaced?
If you have an A/C problem how do you know when it should be repaired or replaced?
If you have a unit over ten years old and in need of a major repair, the decision should be easy, replace.
But what if there are no major repairs needed or your unit is less than ten years old, it can be a tough decision.
Now might be the time to replace it. There are tax credits, utility rebates and manufacturer’s rebates totaling up to three thousand dollars, not to mention the saving on your utility bills, up to one thousand dollars a year! With all of these rebates, credits and utility savings, investing in new A/C unit can quickly pay for itself.
Act now because these savings will not last forever, as funds are limited.
Lighting Can Account For About 20% Of The Electrical Bill.
A typical household uses lighting for 2 hours in the AM and 4 hours in the evening.
By simply changing your existing light bulbs to the new LED bulbs you will notice an increase in savings while using 75% less energy and provide up to 17 years of no maintenance.
The normal 65 watt light bulb will have the average life of about 2, 000 hours.
While the LED bulb has 50,000 hours of operating time. This equates to burning a light bulb for 24 hours a day, 7 days a week ...that’s almost 5 years without ever needing to change the light bulb!
Retro fit your existing can light fixtures so you can start using these “green” bulbs today.
What Is The Average Life Expectancy Of A Tile Roof?
Tiles can last around fifty years. The underlayment, which is the roof protection on tile roofs, will last ten to twenty years depending on quality, installation and conditions. When the underlayment is worn, torn, or defective in any way, it needs to be replaced.
There is nothing more harmful to your roof than a missing shingle or tile. This allows the elements to deteriorate your protective roof system which allows rain and moisture into your home.
By maintaining your roof annually you can save thousands towards the cost of a new one and practically double the life of your existing roof.
Checking your chimney, pipes and penetrations to make sure they are properly sealed could prevent small inexpensive issues from becoming larger and costlier.
Thinking About Granite Countertops - But Afraid Of The Cost?
It may surprise you to know that granite comes in 5 different price levels. Level I being the least expensive, offering quite a few beautiful colors that are moderately priced. Plus level one granite is as good a quality as a level five granite. Level 5 is the most expensive due to the small quantities in the ground.
Pricing is all based on the usable deposits at the quarry, the more material available, the lower the price of the stone. Some deposits are huge, therefore making them more reasonably priced. Mother Nature didn't care when she made it, she just made more of some than of others.
Green Air?
Did you know that dirty HVAC duct systems work harder, cost more to run and waste energy? Not only do neglected air ducts create health and allergy problems, they can increase your monthly electricity bill. The State of Arizona estimates that up to 30% of HVAC power usage can be directly attributed to duct leakage.
Check out http://www.NADCA.com for information regarding the positive effects duct cleaning and sealing have!
Always choose a NADCA Certified Company to ensure complete and proper cleaning of your HVAC system.
Call ToFixIt today to find a local certified air duct cleaning company.
You Should Learn About Your General Contractor
Consumers have a lot of tools at their disposal to be able to make an educated, informed decision as to which contractor they choose to use.
Make some calls; check up on them!
Start with the basics:
1. Call the Registrar of Contractors; ask these questions, at the minimum.
- a. How long has this company been in business in ARIZONA?
- b. How many complaints, either past or present have been lodged against this Contractor?
- a. Are they a member, if so, what is their rating?
- b. Any complaints lodged against this Contractor, or individual.
Every Contractor worth his salt, should produce a list of past clients with no hesitation. They should include contacts name and phone, and the type of job that was undertaken. This will allow you to focus on the clients that have projects similar to your own.
The best information, is often gotten by asking prior clients, a few simple questions. If you’re polite, you won’t believe what they’ll tell you.
- 1. Did they start and finish the job when they said they would?
- 2. Were you satisfied with the sub contractor’s that were brought to your job?
- 3. Were you satisfied that this Contractor was not taking short cuts?
- 4. When your project was complete, were you satisfied that you were treated fairly, and that you got your money’s worth?
- 5. WOULD YOU USE THEM AGAIN?
Learn more great tips toady, call ToFixIt! at 602-863-4948.
Go “Green” With Your Clothes Dryer!
While trying to keep up with mounds of laundry, homeowners often find that when they are ready to remove clothes from the dryer, they aren’t dry yet. So they restart the drying cycle, using more gas or electricity and putting their dryer another cycle closer to the landfill. Not a good step in their sustainability goal.
They know the dryer didn’t use to perform this way, and they wonder why their clothes no longer dry in one cycle.
In all likelihood, these dryers are suffocating in lint that is so clogged in their filter and vent that they just can’t expel the dampness from the laundry to the outside. A thorough dryer vent cleaning can save both the dryer and the environment.
Another problem is that many homeowners, by starting their dryer, then heading to the market, soccer game, bank, cleaners or bed are putting their home and family at risk. While people are away or sleeping, accumulated lint in dryers and dryer vents catches fire, and according to the U.S. Fire Administration, causes 15,000 fires, 15 deaths and 400 injuries a year.
Failure to clean the lint from the dryer vent is the leading factor in clothes dryer fires. Clogged or incorrectly installed vents, plus plastic, foil and other inefficient venting to the outside are other major causes of dryer vent fires.
For peace of mind, have your dryer vent inspected, thoroughly cleaned and repaired if necessary, and train the family to clean the lint filter after every load. Always be sure someone is home when the dryer is running.
To learn more information about how to improve the performance of your clothes dryer call 602-863-4948.
Expect Up to 50% Return On Your Investment
Did you know by remodeling your bathroom you can expect up to a 50% return on your Investment?
Porcelain tile is an inexpensive way to remodel your bathroom. It has the same look and qualities of natural stone without the maintenance or expense.
Porcelain tiles usually have a much lower water absorption rate than non-porcelain tiles making them less likely to fog. They shouldn’t need to be replaced because they have a higher psi, meaning they don’t crack or chip easily. Porcelain tiles are suitable for any application from light traffic to the outdoor living space of your home – and, they’re available in matte, high polished or an unglazed finish.
Natural stone tile often requires re-glazing yearly. Glazed Porcelain tile doesn’t ever need to be resealed!
To learn more about Bathroom Remodeling and many other trusted service providers contact ToFixIt at 602-863-4948.
Dirty Carpet Can Be Dangerous
Do you remove your shoes every time you go into your home?
Did you know that carpets hold dangerous contaminating hazards, sometimes biological, sometimes chemical. One way these contaminants get in is on shoes.
Whether you do or not, many different types of hazards can fall into carpets from clothing and settle from the air. Just vacuuming isn't enough. A rug or carpet can hold literally many pounds of dirt before ever appearing dirty.
Are your kids crawling on the floors?
Call ToFixIt! to learn more about the local carpet cleaning experts.
Broken Glass Can Lead To Leaks
Broken Glass can be costly!
Did you know that cracked or broken glass is often times more than just an eye sore? If left without repair, it can be a safety hazard and a security issued. The cost associated with replacing your glass is far less than what you could incur by ignoring the problem.
Broken glass can often lead to leaks, which in turn leads to drywall damage and even mold issues.
Replacing broken glass in your home is easy. Our service technicians will come to your home, collect the appropriate measurements, and return to install your new glass- in some instances that very same day.
Call ToFixIt today at 602-863-4948 for all your glass related needs from table tops to mirrors to shower enclosures and glass block.
Stretch Your Money
With the market value of gold over $1000 per ounce, you can trade in your old gold and remove any stones you may have and reset into a new piece of jewelry. Many consumers have changed over to white gold and have old yellow gold pieces just sitting around. Use your old gold as a trade-in and reset your stones in a new modern white gold piece that you will wear and enjoy. You can select a cast mounting from a catalog, or have a custom piece made from your drawing.
You can also sell your old gold items, and just select a new item from the showcase.
Want to get the most money for your old items? You can leave on consignment, and they can be sold in the “estate jewelry” show case. Estate items typically sell for about half the price of new items. So, if you are buying or selling, check out the “estate jewelry”.
Diamond prices are at 25 year lows with the slow economy. Now is a great time to purchase that diamond you have been putting off for that special birthday or anniversary.
The diamond market is very slow there are exceptional buys right now.
To learn more money saving tips contact ToFixIt today, 602-863-4948.
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