The Differences Between Paving Contractors

Asset and facility managers are challenged to find contractors for many different services to maintain their commercial properties, including paving contractors. Not all asphalt, sealcoating and concrete contractors are alike. Here are a few questions to help spot the professionals in the bunch:

Do they provide free estimates?
A good paving contractor will provide you with a detailed estimate, attend job walks, deliver presentations and ensure all your project needs are met.

What’s included in their bid?
When reviewing bids, be sure to pay close attention to the entire proposal; including the letterhead that it’s composed. Sloppiness or inadequacies on paper now may be what you’ll get on your asphalt paving project too. Be sure that everything you expect from your paving project is included in the scope. Make sure you understand everything that is taking place. Be sure you understand how the job will be scheduled, how thick the pavement will be, how much rock will be installed and the dimensions or square footage. Signing a contract means you have accepted what is in writing. If something is left out, make sure you get an amended contract.

What types of projects do they handle?
Depending on your needs, you’ll want to be sure your paving contractor can handle your project. You’ll want to ask what size and type projects have they done in the past? Do they do sealcoating? What about asphalt repairs or crack filing? Finding a good paving contractor to take care of all of your needs is idea.

Is there equipment up-to-date and in good working order?
A professional paving contractor will pay close attention to the working order of his equipment. He knows that equipment in poor repair causes down-time and delays – something no one wants. Having the latest equipment, in good working condition is a sure sign of a company that not only cares about doing a great job, but also doing it in the most efficient manner possible.

How long has the company been in business?
Finding a company that has been around for a decade or two is ideal. Laying and maintaining asphalt can be a costlypart of managing your facility, therefore it is important to have a partner that has the experience to get the job done right. Additionally, once you find a good contractor, chances are that you will want to utilize them again for any future repairs, sealcoating needs, signs, or other paving projects. A fly-by-night company won’t be there for you if something goes wrong, never mind giving them additional work.

About ABC Paving and Sealcoating

With more than 20 years of experience, ABC Paving and Sealcoating is Florida's leading paving contractor. ABC Paving and Sealcoating provides commercial organizations with the highest level of customer service, professional workmanship and services including: asphalt paving, asphalt repairs and prevention, pothole repairs, sealcoating, line striping and marking, thermoplastic, crack filing, signs and safety devices, concrete sidewalks, concrete curbs and site preparation. We use our experience and the latest equipment available to get the job done right the first time in a timely, cost effective manner. For more information about ABC Paving and Sealcoating, visit our website at http://pavingandsealcoating.com or call 866-934-7623 for a free estimate.

How Porter Services Help Facility Managers

While facility managers have traditionally faced a trade-off between great service and affordable pricing, there is a competitively priced, professionally run, day porter service available in Florida – you just need to know where to look!

Bringing an innovative approach to helping facility managers, American Facility Services (AFS) offers a wide variety of affordable and exceptional porter services including:

Litter Removal
Our Facility Cleaning Techs (FCT) inspect all common areas removing large to small debris.

Oversized Debris Removal
When oversized debris is located on property it usually requires a trailer to haul the debris away to a local waste disposal facility.

Bulk Trash Removal
This type of bulk trash removal typically requires a roll off dumpster or dump truck due to the excessive amounts of trash left behind the building. Our FCT can quickly remove the debris so that it can safely be hauled away.

Dumpster Enclosure Cleaning
The area where a dumpster is placed is usually out of site but often requires cleaning due to the lack frequency in which the dumpster is picked up.

Trash Receptacle Cleaning
The interior cleaning of trash receptacles is required to reduce unpleasant orders. The exterior areas are typically wiped down on a weekly or as need basis to keep them well maintained.

General Cleaning
Depending on the facility being cleaned, our FCT’s will work with facility managers to will determine the scope of work. Some areas of general cleaning include: windowsill and light fixture dusting, and cleaning up sidewalk spills and public phone areas. Also, cobweb cleaning can be done on a weekly or as needed basis to remove any build-up of insects and webbing underneath the storefront sidewalk canopies.

Window Cleaning
AFS Professional window cleaners get glass clean by using a sponge or wand to apply a cleaning solution. As they wipe the glass, an enormous amount of the dirt is actually transferred to the sponge. The solution is usually just a mixture of water and a mild soap de- greasing agent. AFS uses squeegees to remove the solution that is left on the glass. The soap in the solution lubricates the glass surface allowing the squeegee to glide across the glass.

Storm/Hurricane leaning
AFS has the resources to conduct pre-storm preparations and post-storm cleaning ups.
Whether you’re looking for an integrated facility management program or a single service, such as porter services, AFS will help you by doing what we do best – providing exceptional commercial building services at a competitive price.

About American Facility Services

Providing both interior and exterior commercial building services throughout the state of Florida since 1993, American Facility Services (AFS) has built a solid reputation based on safety, quality and customer service. With offices in Orlando, Jacksonville and Tampa, AFS offers a wide range of including: pressure washing, facility maintenance, commercial painting, sealcoating, asphalt repair, janitorial services, porter services, bulk debris removal and more. AFS provides a complete range of services, so our clients have the convenience of working with a single provider for all their commercial property maintenance needs. Contact AFS today at 866-793-3735 or visit our website at http://www.afsflorida.com for an online proposal.

What to Know When Hiring a Commercial Painter

Commercial painters can preserve the life of your physical assets, and create a well-cared-for appearance for your commercial facility. Using high quality paints and durable, long-lasting commercial surface coatings for interior or exterior projects, commercial painters can make a humdrum building stand apart from the rest.

Hire a Professional

The ideal commercial painting contractor would be one who provides courteous customer service, the industry's best selections of paint and a crew of technicians that are highly qualified. With this combination, you can achieve a cost-effective transformation of your commercial facility just by putting on a new coat of paint. It’s amazing what fresh paint can do to up your buildings curb appeal or freshen up the interior walls!

Before you have just anyone take on your commercial painting project, be sure their painters are skilled, experienced and have the technical dexterity to provide an excellent finished product. How do you do that? A commercial painting company should be able to provide references, have a professionally done website and a local contact number. Nothing is worse than having some fly-by-night painter take your money and not provide good service.

What Services do they Offer?

Commercial painters will usually provide the following types of painting services:

• Interior Painting
• Exterior Painting
• Preserving
• Sealing
• Caulking
• All Phases of Prep Work

A note about prep work – A professional painting contractor will ensure all preparation work is done diligently. Bushes, decks, flowerbeds and paved areas should be covered with drop cloths for exterior painting, whereas carpets, floors, and furniture should be covered for interior painting. Old paint should be scraped off to allow the fresh paint to adhere to the surface properly. Dust should be removed from surfaces to avoid ruining the paint job. Primer should be used to ensure proper and even paint coverage. Taking care of these things before the paint starts going on the walls is an important step that no professional painting contractor will overlook.

Things to Consider

A few things you will want to keep in mind when looking to hire a commercial painting contractor:

• Will the painters be disrupting my business, or can they work around peak hours?
• Will they be on time and provide you with an accurate start and end date?
• What type of prep work will they do before the job?
• What brand and type of paint will they be using?
• Will the project be managed by a professional?
• Do they carry comprehensive worker’s compensation and liability insurance?
• Will they provide a written, detailed proposal at the time of the estimate?
• Do they have references?
• Do they offer a warranty?

Getting the answers to these questions, before any commitment is made can make your commercial painting project a breeze.

About American Facility Services

Providing both interior and exterior commercial building services throughout the state of Florida since 1993, American Facility Services (AFS) has built a solid reputation based on safety, quality and customer service. With offices in Orlando, Jacksonville and Tampa, AFS offers a wide range of including: pressure washing, facility maintenance, commercial painting, sealcoating, asphalt repair, janitorial services, porter services, bulk debris removal and more. AFS provides a complete range of services, so our clients have the convenience of working with a single provider for all their commercial property maintenance needs. Contact AFS today at 866-793-3735 or visit our website at http://www.afsflorida.com for an online proposal.

Jim Baird, American Facility Services Orlando Sales Manager, To Retire

David Derderian to Take Over Role When Transition is Complete

September 19, 2012, Orlando, Florida - American Facility Services (AFS) today announced that Jim Baird, AFS' Sales Manager for the Orlando, Florida region, will retire in September of this year and the role is being transitioned to David Derderian.

"Jim has been an instrumental part of our sales team, leading and overseeing the Orlando division while providing excellent service over the years," said Michael Diglio, President of AFS. "We are very sad to have him leave, but hope he enjoys every day of his retirement."

On November 1st of 1996, Baird started working for AFS. Baird has been an active member in Business Owners and Managers Association (BOMA), the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC), and the Downtown Orlando Partnership (DOP).
"During the last 16 years, not only has Baird been one of the companies top producers, but has continuously received rave reviews from AFS clients when speaking of customer service," said Diglio.

Retirement brings Baird the opportunity to continue entering Chili Cook Offs across the State of Florida. In the past, Baird has won numerous awards including first place in the International Chili Society Charter Chili Head in 2003 and Central Orlando Kiwanis Club's First Annual Chili Cook-Off in 2002. Baird also attends the Simon Youth Foundation bowling tournaments, and enjoys turkey hunting, metal detecting and collecting historical documents.

As AFS' new Sales Manager for the Orlando area, Derderian brings 27 years of diverse project management experience offering exceptional service and support. Additionally, Derderian has a B.S. in Construction Management from Michigan State University. He also has been a Florida Certified Building Contractor (CBC) since 2006 and a Michigan CBC since 1985.

"With a passion for excellence and extreme attention to detail, Dave will continue AFS' mission to provide tailor-made solutions to build and maintain long-term relationships with commercial clients," added Diglio. "Our sales team provides the highest level of customer service and will not miss a beat during the transition."

About American Facility Services

Providing both interior and exterior commercial building services throughout the state of Florida since 1993, American Facility Services (AFS) has built a solid reputation based on safety, quality and customer service. With offices in Orlando, Jacksonville and Tampa, AFS offers a wide range of including: pressure washing, facility maintenance, commercial painting, sealcoating, asphalt repair, janitorial services, porter services, bulk debris removal and more. AFS provides a complete range of services, so our clients have the convenience of working with a single provider for all their commercial property maintenance needs. Contact AFS today at 866-793-3735 or visit our website at http://afsflorida.com for an online proposal.

What to Expect When Having a Gunite Pool Constructed

If you are thinking about having an in-ground gunite pool built, this article can help you understand the phases in which your pool will be constructed and provide tips on avoiding pool construction pitfalls.

Many homeowners believe that one crew will be responsible for the construction of their entire pool; however, this is not a standard practice. Your pool builder will most likely sub-contract out different phases of the job to other trade contractors. During each phase of the construction, you'll see different individuals such as graders and excavators, steel and plumbing workers, electricians, a gunite crew, tile and coping tradesman, plaster and pool decking crews, a technician to connect your pool pump, filter and even a solar pool heating contractor.

Your pool builder should be a good project manager, in that he or she will be apt in avoiding delays and keeping the quality of workmanship high by managing and coordinating the sub-contractors.

Construction Tip: In most cases, your pool builders sub-contractors will provide acceptable or even exceptional quality products and services; however, there is one item in particular that you should purchase directly from the installer, NOT your pool builder -- your solar pool heater.

Often a pool builder will only offer the cheapest solar pool heater on the market, because that's the only product he can get. Not only will it more than likely be a sub-par solar pool heater, the retail mark-up, will be substantial. By avoiding the middleman and contracting directly with the actual installer of the solar pool heater -- a certified, professional contractor, it will save you $500-$1500 on the installation. You'll also receive a top quality product, you'll avoid the middleman markup, and the finger-pointing for any warranty or repair issues.

Let's take a look at each phase of pool construction:

Stage 1 Pool Design

When designing your dream pool with your builder, there are many things to consider. You and your designer will need to review:

• Lot size and the topography of your land
• Property line setbacks
• Easements and underground utilities
• Budget
• Style and shape of the pool
• Tile and coping options
• Extra features, such as a spa, water feature, or planter beds, infinity edges, beach-type entrances, swimouts/benches, or shallow tanning area ledges
• Pool deck including the size, materials, texture and accents
• Pool equipment - slides or dives, ladders, railings, automatic pool cleaners, pumps, filters, heaters, and lights.

Once these decisions have been made, your pool designer can draw up the final plans and submit them to the city for the necessarily construction permits.

Construction Tip: Many Homeowner's Association will require the homeowner to submit the pool design plans to them BEFORE any construction work begins. Failure to follow proper HOA rules and regulations can cause delays, liens on your property and legal headaches.

Stage 2 Pool Excavation

The next step is to stake out and paint the shape of your pool in the yard. Any trees or shrubbery that will interfere with the pools design or fences that block access will be removed. A front end loader or a skid-steer loader can be used to dig the rough shape of the pool in just a few hours.

Construction Tip: Your builder should be able to warn you of and detail any additional costs you may incur in the excavation of the pool. For instance, if during the excavation they run into solid bedrock or if there is an underground spring or a high water table leaks into the digging area - you should be aware of any potential additional construction costs or delays.

Stage 3 Steel and Plumbing

Once the hole has been dug, it is reinforced with steel rebar to act as the pools skeleton and provide structural support for the shell. The rebar is bent into position approximately 2-4 inches from the walls. Then, the plumbers set the skimmers, returns, cleaner lines and drains in place. The electricians will also hang the pool light niches into the wall and connect the bonding wire to the shell at this time.

Stage 4 Gunite

Gunite is concrete that is shot out of a "gun" using high velocity air. As the concrete is shot behind and on top of the rebar, finishers use trowels to carve and sculpt it into the correct shape for your pool. The gunite needs to dry over the next several weeks before plaster can be applied.

Construction Tip: You may see cracks in the surface of the gunite during this phase; however, the plaster will cover these cracks and they will have no affect on the pools finish or ability of your pool to hold water. If, however, large or deep cracks form or an area crumbles, be sure to notify your builder.

Stage 5 Tile and Coping

As the gunite is curing, the perimeter tile and coping, the capstones of your pool wall, can be installed. Decks are also installed during this phase.

Stage 6 Electrical

Nearing the end of your pools installation, an electrician will install a breaker box, sometimes referred to as a sub-panel, in the area where the pool's pump, filer, and heater will be installed. The electrician will also connect the pool lights to junction boxes and run electrical conduit from those boxes back to the sub-panel.

Construction Tip: Most pool equipment will be located relatively close to the pool. Many people choose to build a small wall or plant a row of hedges to help hide the pool equipment from view and cut down on the noise when the filter is running. A small shed can also be build around the equipment, but be sure that the structure is properly ventilated so that your equipment won't overheat.

Stage 7 Plaster
 
Once the gunite has cured, the plaster crew will arrive to finish your pool's surface. The pool plaster is a waterproof layer, protecting the pool shell and steel, and providing a smooth layer that's not only easy to keep clean, but also is easy on your feet when swimming. In just 3-4 hours the plaster work will be complete and the crew will turn on the water to fill the pool.

Construction Tip: It's best to fill your newly plastered pool as quickly as possible without stopping. If possible, add extra hoses to fill the pool faster.

Stage 8 Pool Startup

You're almost done! Your pool builder will stop by to do the initial start-up of the equipment to ensure it's all in working order. He or she will also balance the chemicals in the water and schedule an orientation with you to review the future care needed, and the basic operations of the equipment.

Construction Tip: Your pools chemistry may fluctuate and require daily checks and the addition of specific chemicals for a while. If you do not know how to balance your pools chemicals, your builder can give you basic instructions, or you can hire a pool service, or visit your local pool store -- many will perform pool chemical analysis for free and also sell you the chemicals that you need to balance the waters chemistry.

During the eight phases of your pool's construction, there will be a lot of different people, equipment, noise, and mess, but in the end -- you'll be left with the luxury of being able to take a relaxing swim in your new pool. It will be worth the month or two of construction in the long run!

Central Florida Solar is owned and operated by Bill Park. As one of Central Florida's solar industry's true veterans, Bill has over 28 years of experience in solar energy systems design and installation. He has completed the Florida Solar Energy Center's photovoltaic system design program and he holds State of Florida solar contractor license #CVC 056645. Central Florida Solar sells, installs and services solar energy systems for water heating, pool heating and solar electric power serving greater Orlando including Orange, Seminole, Osceola, Lake, Volusia, and Sumter Counties - including The Villages. For more information, or to get a free solar quote, contact Central Florida Solar at 407-76SOLAR (407-767-6527) or visit their website at http://cflsolar.com.

Installing a Solar Pool Heater During Pool Construction

Are you a Central Florida homeowner thinking of having a new pool installed? It's a great investment and can bring years of enjoyment to you and your family. Plus, the mild climate here in Orlando enables residents to enjoy swimming three or four months out of the year in water that's at least eighty degrees. Those looking to extend their swim season can easily add a solar pool heater during or after construction that will keep you swimming in a warm, comfortable pool for the next 20 to 30 years.

Often pool builders, looking to diversify their business and/or make more money per sale, will offer other options like solar pool heaters, variable or two speed pumps, DE or cartridge filters and the list goes on. While it seems like a solar pool heater is a natural fit for your pool builder to provide, it's actually better to buy direct from a solar pool heating contractor instead, and here's why:

1) Getting the Best Product - Often a pool builder will only offer the cheapest solar pool heater on the market, because that's the only product he can get. Solar pool heating contractors, that have been in business for decades in the Central Florida area, have partnered with manufacturers as distributors and have locked up the supply channels.

The low quality product the pool builder will install won't come at a lower cost. In fact, the retail mark-up, your final price, will be substantial in comparison to the quality of the product. Additionally, pool builders who are installing their own solar pool heaters are not typically licensed to do roof work, yet they'll be penetrating your roof to install the heating system -- roof damage, leaks, and other issues are just waiting to happen.

2) Avoiding the Middleman - Even though you think your pool builder will be installing your solar pool heater, frequently they use a subcontractor for the installation. The subcontractor is typically another local company who specializes in solar pool heaters. Padding the price of your heater enables your pool builder to cover his cost for the subcontractor and still enable him to make a profit on your installation. Savvy homeowners who understand this principle will contract with the pool builder only to build their pool and a solar pool heating contractor to install their heater. It only makes sense to cut out the middleman and go directly to the expert, the actual installer.

3) Warranty and Repair - Should something go wrong with your solar pool heater once it's installed - who do you call? The pool builder will refer you to either his sub-contractor or the manufacturer, basically washing his hands of the problem once your check clears.

Buy Direct and Save
Buying your solar pool heater directly from a certified, professional contractor just makes cents and sense! Not only will you save $500-$1500 on the installation, you get a quality product and you avoid the middleman,and the finger-pointing for any warranty or repair issues.

Central Florida Solar is owned and operated by Bill Park. As one of Central Florida's solar industry's true veterans, Bill has over 28 years of experience in solar energy systems design and installation. He has completed the Florida Solar Energy Center's photovoltaic system design program and he holds State of Florida solar contractor license #CVC 056645. Central Florida Solar sells, installs and services solar energy systems for water heating, pool heating and solar electric power servinggreater Orlando including Orange, Seminole, Osceola, Lake, Volusia, and Sumter Counties - including The Villages. For more information, or to get a free solar quote, contact Central Florida Solar at 407-76SOLAR (407-767-6527) or visit their website at http://cflsolar.com.

What to Expect from Your Carpet Cleaner

Having the carpet in your home professionally cleaned eliminates trapped pollutants such as pet dander and everyday dirt and dust. It can also clear out dust mite infestations or cockroach allergens.

Sure, you could do it yourself, but is it worth the hassle of renting the equipment and buying the chemicals, lugging heavy machinery -- all at the risk of ruining your carpeting? Improper chemical mixtures, mistreating stains and saturating your carpet with water are all hazards that a professional carpet cleaner can help you avoid.

Getting your home's carpets professionally cleaned can not only preserve your floor covering, but part of the joy of hiring a professional is having someone else do the dirty work!

Before the carpet cleaner arrives, there are a couple of things you should be aware of:

• The front door will be left open so watch your kids and pets.
• Keep pets and children away from the equipment and hoses while cleaning.
• You can walk on the carpet before it dries. Make sure feet are clean. Wear booties if possible. Be careful: walking from the wet carpet to the tile can be slippery.
• Carpets take approximately 6-8 hours in moist climate and 4-6 hours in dry climate.
• The E.P.A. and Shaw Industries recommends cleaning your carpet every 6 months, more or less, depending on people in the household, children and pets and outdoor environment.
• The cleaning solutions are bio degradable and environmentally friendly.

If you haven't already found an East Valley carpet cleaning company, here are some tips to selecting one:

• Make sure you get them to come out and give you a free onsite estimate
• Avoid estimates by telephone or e-mail only – No one can really tell you a price unless they see the condition of your floor or carpet.
• There are many companies that quote a cheap price over the phone just to get in the door, once they get in the door they charge extra for pre-treatment, spot removal, furniture moving, etc. You can end up over paying and getting poor quality work.
• Walk the carpet and floor and point out your concerns before they start the job.
• Ask what method they use for cleaning your carpet or floor. Let them explain it to you so you know what kind of products they are using.
• Combine apples to apples when getting multiple estimates. A professional cleaning job should include, spotting, pre-treatment, rinse/extract, fiber rake.
• Ask for referrals

About A Mug You Can Trust

With more than 35 years of carpet cleaning experience in the Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, Apache Junction, Queen Creek, Tempe, Scottsdale, Ahwatukee, and Phoenix, Arizona areas, A Mug You Can Trust uses state-of-the-art equipment providing exceptional results for homes, commercial and retail businesses. A Mug You Can Trust values their customers by doing what they say they'll do, on time, for one guaranteed price, with no hidden charges. Call A Mug You Can Trust at (480) 626-3492 or email alan@amugyoucantrust.com for a carpet cleaning estimate.

Cleaning Commercial Floors

The office buildings, restaurants, and other commercial facilities in East Valley, Arizona are furnished with many different flooring materials including: carpeting, hardwood floors, various types of stone or ceramic tile floors, and synthetic flooring such as asphalt, linoleum, vinyl, or rubber.

Unlike residential floor cleaning, which requires less equipment, and fewer cleaning supplies, commercial floor cleaning is larger scale and requires your floor cleaning company to understand and manage a wide variety of tools, supplies, and cleaning techniques to maintain your flooring in top condition. The floor machines, pads, cleaning supplies, must all be compatible with each other and with your flooring. The floor cleaning company needs to select from many different cleaning chemicals to remove different types of soiling. They also need to know how to use and apply the right floor finishes and finish protectors.

There are several steps in cleaning a commercial floor surface. Here is an overview of the cleaning process:

1. Sweeping - It is first necessary to sweep the floor and properly dispose of all debris.
2. Degreaser and Cleaning Chemicals - If necessary, the floor should be pre-conditioned with a degreaser for easier soil release. After the cleaning chemicals are mixed in the proper formula, the diluted cleaning solution should be applied liberally to the floor. Commercial floor cleaners will typically use a floor machine to clean and polish.
3. Machine Scrub- The floor should be scrubbed using a commercial floor cleaning machine with the correctly color coded pad that matches the flooring type and the level of dirt. This power scrub should be used to agitate the chemicals on the floor for approximately five to ten minutes to emulsify the grease and dirt.
4. Detailing - Hard to reach areas such as corners and floor edges should be hand detailed for best results.
5. Rinsing - The floor should be rinsed with clean water mop and bucket. With this method, it is important to change the water often for a more thorough cleaning.

About A Mug You Can Trust

With more than 35 years of floor cleaning experience in the Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, Apache Junction, Queen Creek, Tempe, Scottsdale, Ahwatukee, and Phoenix, Arizona areas, A Mug You Can Trust uses state-of-the-art equipment providing exceptional results for homes, commercial and retail businesses. A Mug You Can Trust values their customers by doing what they say they'll do, on time, for one guaranteed price, with no hidden charges. Call A Mug You Can Trust at (480) 626-3492 or email alan@amugyoucantrust.com for a floor cleaning estimate.

What to Do Before Your Carpet Cleaner Arrives

Having the carpet in your home professionally cleaned eliminates trapped pollutants such as pet dander and everyday dirt and dust. It can also clear out dust mite infestations or cockroach allergens.

Sure, you could do it yourself, but is it worth the hassle of renting the equipment and buying the chemicals, lugging heavy machinery -- all at the risk of ruining your carpeting? Improper chemical mixtures, mistreating stains and saturating your carpet with water are all hazards that a professional carpet cleaner can help you avoid.

Getting your home's carpets professionally cleaned can not only preserve your floor covering, but part of the joy of hiring a professional is having someone else do the dirty work!

Before the carpet cleaner arrives, just follow these few steps to help make sure you get the cleanest carpet possible:

Vacuum - While your carpet cleaner will more than likely vacuum your carpet upon arrival, taking a few extra moments to remove as much debris and dirt from the carpet fiber prior to a cleaning can help ensure your carpet cleaner is focusing on the deep down soiled in dirt.

Important to note: Some carpet cleaning services WILL NOT vacuum the carpet prior to beginning their work. Be sure to ask your carpet cleaning professional whether or not you need to vacuum prior to their arrival.

Dust - Before your carpet cleaner arrives, grab a dust cloth and give not only your furniture and knickknacks the once over, but also be sure to give the baseboards and air conditioner registers a quick dusting. This will help ensure the carpet won't be soiled quickly following a cleaning.

Remove fragile items - Speaking of knickknacks, it is a good idea to remove any fragile, sentimental, or expensive items from the room before your carpets are cleaned. Most carpet cleaning companies are careful; however, it's always better to protect your breakables than to be sorry later.

Important to note: Ask if your carpet cleaner is insured! Let's face it - accidents happen. Be sure you'll be covered if something unexpected does happen.

Clean Up - By removing smaller items from the floors like waste baskets, toys, clothing, shoes and even floor lamps help your carpet cleaner spend time cleaning - not moving your personal belongings. If you have any floor length drapes or bedspreads it is probably also a good idea to lift them up or secure them so that they are not in the way of a carpet cleaner's equipment.

Parking Space - Make sure your carpet cleaner has a place to park. If your carpet cleaner uses truck-mounted equipment, he will need to park his vehicle as close as possible to your homes entrance to run hoses for the cleaning equipment.

Stains - If you have any areas of concern, such as dark stains or high traffic areas. Be sure to point them out to your carpet cleaner to help make sure they're not missed during the cleaning process.

About A Mug You Can Trust

With more than 35 years of carpet cleaning experience in the Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, Apache Junction, Queen Creek, Tempe, Scottsdale, Ahwatukee, and Phoenix, Arizona areas, A Mug You Can Trust uses state-of-the-art equipment providing exceptional results for homes, commercial and retail businesses. A Mug You Can Trust values their customers by doing what they say they'll do, on time, for one guaranteed price, with no hidden charges. Call A Mug You Can Trust at (480) 626-3492 or email alan@amugyoucantrust.com for a carpet cleaning estimate.

Hernon Manufacturing and Bliss Clearing Niagara Sign Cooperation Agreement

Hernon Manufacturing adds BCN as an authorized integrator for its ammunition sealing equipment

Sanford, FL., September 10, 2012 - Hernon Manufacturing, the innovator in adhesives, sealants and dispensing equipment, recently announced the signing of a cooperation agreement with Bliss Clearing Niagara (BCN Technical Services).  According to the terms of the agreement, as an authorized integrator for Hernon's ammunition sealing equipment, BCN will soon offer Hernon's full line of ammunition equipment.

Hernon Manufacturings President, Harry Arnon had this to say about its authorized integrator program, "Bliss Clearning Niagra has been a trusted and leading Manufacturer of ammunition manufacturing equipment since the 1800's and Hernon is proud to have BCN as an integrator of Hernon's ammunition sealing equipment. BCN continues to strictly adhere to our authorized integrator program by upholding the precision, reliability and value of the equipment as well as the high quality customer service we demand."

Hernon Manufacturing has long been a leader in adhesives, sealants and equipment for the ammunition industry.  Custom military applications are the root of Hernon’s existence.  In recent years the ammunition industry, like other facets of manufacturing, has become increasingly more sophisticated. 

"In an environment of increased competition, Hernon and its authorized integrators continue to design and build precision dispensing solutions, and provide products and services that meet or exceed the rigorous manufacturing requirements demanded by worldwide customers," added Arnon.  "Currently, our custom dispensing solutions are being utilized by some of the largest munitions producers in the industry."

The addition of BCN as an authorized integrator will enable Hernon Manufacturing's ammunition sealing equipment to expand in the ammunition market, be delivered faster, used in more applications, and therefore support customers better.

BCN is quoting Hernon Products in all of their complete ammunition manufacturing lines.  All equipment builders will be in-house and factory trained to achieve maximum impact with potential and current customers.

John Mitteer, BCN Technical Services VP of Sales and Sales Manager had this to say about the partnership: "BCN, Bliss, Clearing, Niagra, is proud to offer Hernon Manufacturing's high-tech equipment as an option to our valued customers.  We feel this partnership will help us provide the best, most advanced equipment available to the ammunition manufacturing industry.  BCN is the best choice with the best solutions for manufacturing!"

About Hernon Manufacturing
Hernon Manufacturing has been committed to delivering world class adhesive, sealant, and impregnation solutions along with precision dispensing systems for nearly four decades. A long-time member of Central Florida’s industrial manufacturing community, Hernon offers strong brands and technologies, all made in the United States, for a diverse range of industries including: Energy/Power Generation, Medical, Electronics, Electrical, Automotive, Appliances, Sporting Goods, Ammunition, Communications, Aerospace, Aviation, High Tech Audio, Defense, Fire Suppression, Transportation, and Marine. 

For additional information about Hernon's products and process equipment, please visit  http://hernon.com , or call 407-322-4000.

About Bliss Clearing Niagara

BCN (Bliss Clearing Niagara) Technical Services, Inc. is located in Hastings, Michigan, USA.  The company holds the rights to all trademarks and drawings of the original equipment manufacturers of Bliss, Clearing, Niagara, USI, Toledo, Consolidated Press and Wilkins and Mitchell presses. In its 130,000 square foot facility, BCN manufactures new replacement parts for these and other presses to the exact original engineering specifications.  BCN now offers brand new presses made with solid cast frames and all of the modern features and safety standards for today's high- tech manufacturing world. They also provide all press related services that our customers might need - be it repairs, refurbishment, heavy rebuilds, inspections or modernizations and upgrades.  For more information, visit http://bcntechserv.com.

Media Contact: 

Edgardo Rodriguez
Director of Sales and Marketing
(407) 322-4000 ext. 314

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Video Tributes: Don't Make Your Client Families Do it Themselves

If you don’t offer video tributes as part of your funeral home services, you may have to deal with your client family’s exasperation with the outside production house that is apparently going to miss the deadline. Save yourself the headaches and look into funeral software!

With the increasing use of tribute videos at funerals, many attendees at funeral services leave questioning how to make one of their own. Those close to the client family will usually inquire as to who produced it for them, and start with the recommendation given. Those more distant from the client family, feeling uncomfortable discussing such practical matters, generally resort to do it yourself versions or may employ a production company in the project. Be certain to promote your funeral home’s abilities to produce video tributes in-house and save client families from the hardships of trying to create a video tribute on their own.

Watch a Sample Tribute Video Now!

The most impressive tribute videos include photos, video clips, verbiage and music. They contain professional transitions and syncing of image to music. This type can be outsourced by clients to a production house or by you, with funeral software and equipment you already have at your funeral home. If you don’t have the funeral software and your client families need to go to a professional production house, there can be disastrous results. Not only are the tribute videos usually far more expensive than what it would cost at your funeral home, these types of facilities work for many industries and may not understand the true value. Being solely focused on the funeral industry and sensitive to the circumstances of those ordering the videos, funeral home professionals provide an extra touch to grieving clients.

Other issues with using outside facilities include the risk of missing deadlines, which is undesirable for obvious reasons, and trying to complement themes that the funeral home may be using on other items. For example, if a client family is ordering all funeral stationery, a funeral candle and perhaps a holiday ornament keepsake reflected a certain theme, it would be a shame to have the tribute video utilizing a different theme. Keeping it all in-house allows for consistency and strict adherence to timing. There is something to be said for having it when you need it!

Now, let’s talk about the possibility of client families making a tribute on their own. Software for businesses, like PowerPoint may have some advanced capabilities, but they this software caters to business clientele. The best option is to use software specifically developed for the funeral industry. With 24/7 technical assistance, amazing ease of creation and Oscar-worthy results, there is no reason not to offer this exceptional service.

Frazer Consultants primary products and services include interactive funeral home website design, DVD tribute video software, funeral webcasting, funeral candles, funeral keepsakes, funeral register books, personalized funeral stationery, temporary grave markers and funeral holiday remembrance ornaments. For more information, please visit http://www.frazerconsultants.com or call 866-372-9372.

The Tribute Video: Becoming Essential to the Successful Funeral

Expectations in funeral services are increasing as people are exposed to newly available options. Tribute videos are taking center stage among the most requested products for funerals. 

The age of technology – constantly improving at time warp speed - has changed our lives in countless ways. From cell phones (who even remembers rotary dials?) to the home computer offering everything from entertainment to research to shopping, our society has embraced technology with a tenacious hold. While some industries have been forced to adopt to new technology immediately, others have been more reluctant to do so. Professions that have dealt in a one-on-one manner with clients may have viewed technology as adding an impersonal element to their wholly personal client relationship business model. The funeral home profession is one that has realized the positive impacts technology can have on business and on the relationships they have with their client families.

With funeral software – relatively new and developed specifically for the industry – major changes are occurring in the planning and personalization of funeral services. Software provides the ability for clients to pre-plan for funerals online, right down to selecting the funeral stationery that best fits their loved ones personality. This new funeral software also gives you the ability to create funeral products that truly honor the spirit of the deceased through customization.

The overwhelming request of DVD tribute videos among client families has made it one product that you should most definitely be familiar with. Added to the poster boards bursting with photographs of the deceased, or in many cases replacing them altogether, tribute videos are remembered by many funeral visitors as the pièce de résistance of the service. Including photographs, videos, music and set to any one of hundreds of themes that best personify the departed, they readily make a stunning impact on mourners.

As the funeral director, your role in creating video tributes is critical, yet the entire process of development is shockingly easy. Funeral software guides you step by step along the way, showing you where to place photos, videos, verbiage, and how to add music. You are able to add motion effects to photos to make them come alive, and will automatically set transitions and sync music. You can touch up photos and can even scan the photos your client families provide in mere seconds. The resulting tribute video will be of such professional quality you just may reawaken a creative side of yourself that has been long hidden.

Funeral attendees are often astounded by the exceptional quality of the video tributes and the videos themselves help to establish the tone of the service – a tone of love as memories come flooding back. The tribute video serves to drawn mourners together to reflect, laugh, cry and begin the grieving process that helps with healing following the death of a loved one.

Look into the many benefits of funeral software so that you can help create even more special funeral services for your client families.

Frazer Consultants primary products and services include interactive funeral home website design, DVD tribute video software, funeral webcasting, funeral candles, funeral keepsakes, funeral register books, personalized funeral stationery, temporary grave markers and funeral holiday remembrance ornaments. For more information, please visit http://www.frazerconsultants.com or call 866-372-9372.

Frazer Consultants Announces New Product - Funeral Register Keepsake Boxes

To preserve the memories, keep a funeral register book safely stored on a bookshelf or in an office, Frazer Consultants creates funeral register books with coordinated keepsake boxes

Waunakee, WI., September 4, 2012 – Frazer Consultants a personalization, technology, and consulting company for the funeral industry recently announced the release of their new funeral register books and bookshelf keepsake boxes. Each of the ten new register books include a bookshelf keepsake box that allows client families to display the book within the home or office. The funeral register book and keepsake box retail for $19.95.

View the new funeral register keepsake boxes now!

"In our everlasting commitment to create superior products that help your firm provide personalized and lasting memorials for the families you serve, we have created this revolutionary product," said Matt Frazer, Consultant with Frazer Consultants. "The new register book and bookshelf keepsake box provide a beautiful way for families to store and display their register book long after the service."

Created with funeral software developed by Frazer Consultants called Tribute Center, this software was programmed with the funeral professional in mind. It enables them to easily and affordably create personalized and unique funeral register books and now coordinated keepsake boxes too. Additionally, Tribute Center features tribute video software, funeral webcasting software, and also contains components enabling the funeral professional to personalize funeral candles, holiday remembrance ornaments and more. All of these custom items can be completed in-house using the funeral software.

"Tribute Center is the most robust funeral software on the market today," stated Frazer. "Thousands of funeral professionals rely on it daily to help client families celebrate the life of their loved ones through customized and truly personal funeral products and services." "If you would like to learn more about how your funeral home can take your personalization options to the next level, contact us," added Frazer.

Frazer Consultants primary products and services include interactive funeral home website design, DVD tribute video software, funeral webcasting, funeral candles, funeral keepsakes, funeral register books, personalized funeral stationery, temporary grave markers and funeral holiday remembrance ornaments. For more information, please visit http://www.frazerconsultants.com or call 866-372-9372.