Drive in More Business– Tips on Maintaining Your Parking Lot

Drive in More Business– Tips on Maintaining Your Parking Lot

Whether you run a large or small business, if access to a parking lot is a part of your lease, maintaining that lot is in your best interest. Customers need a place to park their vehicles when they visit your storefront or office. Even in the most walkable areas, there are still clients and customers who will want to park their cars close to your place. If you own or are otherwise responsible for maintaining a parking lot for your business, there are three maintenance tips to consider.

Risk Factors

Generally, a parking lot sits outside and is exposed to the elements year-round. This means that the wear and tear on the surface is happening around the clock. Asphalt surfaces are susceptible to damage from weather. So, keep in mind how the seasons are impacting the area. Traffic and existing imperfections are other risk factors. Then, there are surprises, like the roots of trees, that decide to make their presence known by damaging paved surfaces.

Needs Repair

If you notice cracks, loose material or other imperfections on your parking lot, you are encouraged to get those repairs completed as soon as possible. Those who do not have experience in the repairs of outdoor surfaces are advised to seek the opinion of trained professionals. Sometimes, the necessary repairs are cosmetic. A new coat of paint marking the lines between parking spaces shows your customers that you care for the property, which adds to their sense of safety, for example. Other times, repairs are more serious. When cracks begin to show up, taking care of them prevents further damage that often leads to more expensive repairs later. If potholes or other serious crevices are apparent, it is in your best interest to have them fixed in a timely manner.

Protection

One way to help the surface of your parking lot last longer is to protect it with a sealant. If a sealant was not added when the surface was first installed, a professional could tell you if it is still an option. If a new surface has to be installed, the sealant can be added once the work is complete.

Sometimes, having access to a parking lot is a luxury. If your business can claim that luxury, it is a good idea to take care of it. A well-maintained parking area is convenient for your customers and a plus for your company.
An attractive commercial property is a must for every business, so let us help you build the perfect one!

The Secrets of Building a Home Only a Handful of People Know

The Secrets of Building a Home Only a Handful of People Know

Building a custom home requires plenty of steps to create a house that suits your specific needs and lifestyle. When you’re starting the process, you likely want to know the best ways to take shortcuts or save money along the way. When you’re ready to build a house, there are a few secrets that only a handful of people know.

Inspections are Crucial

Many homeowners make the mistake of preceding inspections that are performed during the process and after the house is completed. Spending a few hundred dollars to uncover any issues that are present is worth the investment to avoid potential problems in the future, according to huffingtonpost.com. Hire a professional who can evaluate the electrical work, the foundation, and the plumbing to ensure that it’s move-in ready.

Install a Wireless Security System

Installing a wireless security system is necessary to reduce the risk of a break-in and protect your personal belongings. Choose a system that will allow you to add carbon monoxide sensors especially in your garage to keep your loved ones safe in the house. The device can also include flood sensors and home automation to ensure that you can control it on or off of the property.

Add Extra Storage Space

Add more storage space than you think you think you need to different rooms of the home to reduce any clutter that develops and make it easier to stay organized. Install pots and pans drawers in your kitchen for your cooking equipment and increase the size of the bedroom closets to prevent the interior setting from feeling cramped.

Avoid Incorporating Too Many Trends

Many homeowners make the mistake of incorporating too many trends into their new home, whether it includes a white subway tile backsplash or open shelving in the kitchen. Avoid incorporating too many trends in the space, which can cause the home to look outdated in the coming years and will affect the value of the property. Add contemporary elements and features that look appealing but aren’t overly stylish to ensure that they maintain their appeal long-term and don’t have to be modified or replaced anytime soon.

Building a new home will require that you avoid mistakes to save more money and increase the efficiency of the project. By knowing a few construction secrets, you can enjoy a smooth and successful plan that allows you to be more satisfied with the outcome once the house is completed.

Sources

Protect Your Home

Realtor.com

American Home Inspectors Training Institute

Veterans United Network

 

5 Ways to Keep Your Tools in Tip-Top Shape

It’s important to keep your tools in pristine condition to help them last a long time. Follow our top five tips below on how to keep your tools in tip-top shape, from cleaning them every day to storing them in the right conditions.

Clean Tools With Every Use

Although cleaning off your tools may seem like a laborious task that no one wants to do, it’s vital to keeping your tools in good condition. You’ll be thanking yourself after a few minutes of cleaning that you don’t have to deal with the dirt and grime the next time you want to use your tools.

Check for Damaged Handles

When placing your tools back in storage, check for cracked, loose, or even splintered handles. If you notice that the wooden handle is damaged, it may break the next time you use it, which means you should get it repaired or replaced. However, if it’s not too badly damaged, you should just sand it down to avoid any mishaps. Once it’s sanded, coat it with linseed oil to offer it better protection for your next job.

Repair or Replace Power Tools that Don’t Turn on Easily

If you notice that a particular electrical tool does not turn on right away, do not use it. Inspect the tool to determine whether it will need to be repaired or replaced. If you decide that a tool needs to be repaired but you are not sure how to do it, contact a professional.

Use Proper Storage

When it comes to storing your tools, you must work with the space you have. If you have a lot of space, pegboards are great for storing tools efficiently. Plus, you can easily see what tools you have and where they are. Toolboxes are also fantastic storage systems. They offer portability and you can be sure that with the right case, your equipment will always be protected. You can also make use of shelves, drawers, and whatever other storage systems are available to you.

Store Them in a Dry Place

Moist environments can cause your tools to corrode and rust. Unfortunately, most people store their tools in basements, garages, or other enclosed rooms that have humidity issues. Consider purchasing a dehumidifier if you store your tools in one of these places.

With these five tips, you can ensure that all of your tools will remain clean and functional for many years to come. Make sure you clean them off, make necessary repairs, and store them properly. Only then can you keep them in tip-top condition.