3 Gate Considerations

If you've got a fence around your property, you have gates. Whether they are situated at the front entrance or the back (or both, because who want to always have to go to the front of the property to get in or out?), these barriers have their purpose. For most, they are meant to protect and keep intruders on the outside, while still allowing you access. If you do not have corten steel gates, they are probably made of out cold rolled and stainless steel.

When you are interested in installing gates for the first time or replacing existing gates, here are three things to consider.

1. Size - The gates you are about to have installed to protect your home have parameters that they have to meet. The most important parameter is the measurement. Take the time to measure the area they are going to cover from top to bottom and side to side. If there is a slope present, you want to ensure that the gates will not scrape the bottom, and therefore, not open correctly. You also do not want unintended crevices to exist anywhere around the gate. This is especially important if you are trying to keep a pet in or another kind of critter out.
2. Function - It is very important that your gate opens and closes as intended. If obstructions exist anywhere around the gate that will hinder its opening or closure, find the one that works best under those conditions. Tandem, bi-fold and standard sliding gates are some options. Cantilevered, top hung and tapered gates are others. After you conduct an eye-test, if you are still unsure, you can always call on a professional for a consultation. They will evaluate and make suggestions accordingly.
3. Design - Once the size and function of the gate have been settled on, you can move on to the design. In many cases, you can purchase a gate that will open and close as intended and be nice to look at, too. Artists who work with steel have entered the realm of gates, and they create architectural pieces that also keep your property safe. These gates are custom-made and custom-fit. If you opt for something more demure, those options are available, as well.

When planning to install gates around your property, remember to take into consideration the size, function, and design.

Make Your Bathtub Look Like Brand New

Is your bathtub old, worn, rusted, abused, or otherwise damaged? You may think the only way to have a bathroom you will actually like is to hire someone to replace that old bathtub, and you don't relish the idea of an expensive and messy project. Consider a bathtub liner installation instead. A custom-made liner brings new life to your old tub without all the mess and expense of a complete removal and replacement.

Part of an in-home consultation includes the company's representatives taking precise measurements of the existing tub to make sure that the new liner will fit perfectly over the old one.The liner fits without disturbing the plumbing and is made to last at least 20 years. That is a greater longevity than most modern steel bathtubs can claim!

Quarter-inch solid-core vinyl provides a high-gloss and high-impact finish that is invincible to physical damage. With an inventory of more than 100 molds, every model and make of bathtub is represented, and the forming system replicates the tub's subtlest curves.

When properly made, the liners do not crack, chip, peel, or stain. No paint or dangerous and offensive chemicals are used, which eliminates odors.The liners are not affected by bacteria or acid, and they are easy to maintain. They are also HUD tested and approved. Each installation comes with a new overflow fixture, drain, and new silicone caulking around the perimeter. The durability also makes them popular with hotels, motels, and apartment complexes as they easily get approval from owners, managers, and realtors.

Be sure to choose a reputable and experienced company that employs specialized bathroom remodeling technicians who can install the liner in a timely and precise professional fashion. A typical bathtub relining usually takes only a few hours, and you will be able to use the bathtub the very next day.

Make Sure Your Family is Ready for Summer

When the summer season starts and the temperatures start to rise, smart parents know that it's important to make sure that their family is ready for anything. From lazy days indoors to Sundays at the beach, the summer season can bring all sorts of excitement (along with cries of, "Mom, I'm bored!"). The question you have to ask yourself is, "Is my  family ready for the summer?"

One of the most important things for any homeowner to do before the summer season begins is to make sure that they have air conditioning. This is especially important if you live in one of the hotter areas of the country where the temperatures get very high and people can get very sick if they are left in the heat for too long. If you don't already have an air conditioner that is working well, you need to find and hire a local professional to get one installed in your home before the summer heat hits. For example, if you need HVAC Gloucester VA, you should call a reputable company like CC Air and Heat. This will ensure that your home stays cool and comfortable throughout the season and your family stays safe from the dangers of excessive heat.


Another important thing is to make sure that any pools in your area are completely secured and that your children are taught about water safety. If your children will be spending any time at the beach, at a pool, on a river, or at any other place where they could fall into the water, they should have swimming lessons as well as wear a life jacket. If you have a pool in your backyard, it's essential that it is fenced in and only accessible by a locked gate that is too tall for small children to open and enter. Drowning is a leading cause of death for small children in many places so don't let it happen to you.

Finally, make sure that your summer is fun. Let your kids relax, don't over schedule them, and spend quality time with them this summer.

Get the Most Out of Summer with the Kids

Summer can be a wonderful and enjoyable time with the kids, but there are times the summer heat can drain all the energy and fun out of your summer. Fortunately, there are several ways you can keep your cool all summer long whether you’re at home, outside, or on a fun-filled outing.

Cooling Off the Indoors

A little prep work inside your home will help you remain comfortable during the summer. Install insulated window treatments to block the hot rays of the sun, and remember to keep the drapes pulled on sunny days. Switch out bedding for 100% cotton sheets and lightweight blankets and quilts. Make sure your air conditioner is functioning properly too. There's nothing so frustrating as turning your AC on that first really hot day of summer only to find out that it does not work. If you are looking for AC replacement Fort Myers has many reputable professionals such as those at Gulf Shore Cooling that can help.

Get the Backyard Ready

Summers spent in the backyard can be fun as long as they are safe. Make sure you have plenty of shade. If your lawn lacks trees, use a table with an umbrella for picnic-style meals. Awnings and canopies are ideal for over sandboxes and other play areas, and water toys such as squirt guns, slip and slides, and children’s pools are great ways to cool off with supervision.

Ideal Day Trips

Summer days can become boring quickly when you are a child full of energy. Day trips are an excellent way to show your children new and fun places while spending time together as a family. Cool off at the local pool or spend an afternoon at the beach. The zoo is a wonderful place to visit, and walking the trails at a nearby park can be educational. You don't have to spend a lot of money to have a lot of fun. Do a quick internet search for free (and cheap) things to do in your area.

By following these tips you can have an enjoyable summer that both you and the kids will remember fondly for years to come. It is possible to have fun and stay cool this summer. A few quick changes inside and out along with some fun-filled day trips will help you make the most of this special time together.