How To Find The Right Materials For Your Plastic Production Needs

When it comes to finding the right materials for your plastic production needs, you need to consider a few things. What type of plastic are you trying to produce? What are the environmental conditions like where your product will be used? What is the desired lifespan of your product? By considering these factors and more, you can find the right materials for your specific needs. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most important factors to consider when choosing materials for plastic production. Stay tuned!

1. The types of plastic materials that are available

To find the right plastic materials for your business needs, you should first understand the different types of plastic materials that are available. There are four main types of plastics: thermoplastics, thermosets, elastomers, and polymers.

Thermoplastics are plastics that can be melted and reformed multiple times. They are typically used in injection molding and extrusion processes.

Thermosets are plastics that can only be molded once. They are typically used in compression molding and transfer molding processes.

Elastomers are plastics that have elastic properties, meaning they can return to their original shape after being stretched or deformed. They are typically used in applications where flexibility is needed, such as in tires, seals, and gaskets.

Polymers are a type of plastic that can be either thermoplastic or thermoset. They are made up of long chains of molecules and can be either natural or synthetic. Polymers are typically used in applications where strength and durability are needed, such as in construction and automotive applications.

2. How to select the right material for your needs

When it comes to choosing the right material for your plastic production needs, there are a few key factors you'll need to consider. First, what kind of product are you looking to produce? What are its intended use and applications? Second, what are your budget and timeline constraints? Third, what is the level of detail and precision required for your project?

Once you've considered these key factors, you can begin to narrow down your options. There are a variety of plastics on the market, each with its own unique set of properties and characteristics. Some plastics are better suited for certain applications than others. For example, if you need a plastic that is durable and weather-resistant, polycarbonate might be a good option. If you need a plastic that is transparent and has a high degree of detail, acrylic might be a better choice.

3. The benefits of using plastic materials in manufacturing

With its many benefits, plastic has become one of the most popular materials used in manufacturing. Some of the benefits of using plastic include: 

- Plastic is durable and can withstand high temperatures, making it ideal for products that need to be heat resistant.

- Plastic is lightweight, which makes it easy to transport and reduces shipping costs.

- Plastic is easy to mold and shape into different products.

- Plastic is cost-effective and can be produced in large quantities.

Also, you can easily thermoform it should you need to do so. Furthermore, you can visit the site of the CBM Plastics pros to learn more about the whole process. That way, you can get more insights and be able to make an informed decision.

4. How to find a supplier of plastic materials

In order to find a supplier of plastic materials, it is important to first identify what type of plastic material is needed for the production process. There are many different types of plastics available on the market, and each type has its own unique set of properties. Once the specific type of plastic material has been identified, businesses can begin searching for suppliers that specialize in that particular type of plastic.

5. Tips for working with plastic materials

Once you have selected the right plastic material for your project, there are a few tips to keep in mind when working with these materials. Here are a few tips:

- Make sure to use the right tools when working with plastics. Using the wrong tool can damage the material or cause it to break.

- When cutting plastic, always use a sharp blade. A dull blade will cause the material to fray and can make the cuts uneven.

- When drilling holes in plastic, use a slow speed and be careful not to crack the material.

- Always test the fit of your pieces before gluing or welding them together. Once these materials are joined, they cannot be separated.

- Use caution when sanding or grinding plastic, as these materials can create dust that is harmful to breathe in. Wear a respirator if necessary.

In the end, there are a few key factors to consider when choosing the right materials for your plastic production needs. By taking the time to research your options and understand your needs, you can ensure that you select the best possible materials for your business. With the right materials in hand, you can produce high-quality products that meet the demands of your customers.

If You Want To Have A Pool You Should Be Aware Of These Things First

Many people dream about having a pool in their house one day. Few other home upgrades have the ability to transform your house into a summer entertainment hotspot, complete with staycations, family get-togethers, hangouts with friends, and refuge from the heat, all within easy walking distance. There are obligations and expenses related to pool ownership, regardless of whether you bought a property with a pool or are prepared to take the plunge and install a backyard hideaway. Here are some aspects of owning a pool that you should be aware of.

Why Have a Pool?

Establishing your motivations for installing a swimming pool is the first step, just as with any other improvement job. These will have a significant impact on the pool's size, form, depth, and perhaps even kind of construction. Will you use it for exercise, fun, or relaxation? Is it intended for your kids and their friends, to improve a view, or to serve as the garden's main point? The other decisions won't be as difficult to make if you are clear on their goal. However, before proceeding with your pool ideas, keep the most important factor in mind: will you utilize it enough to justify the cost?

Pool Maintenance

A major factor is pool maintenance. In addition to periodic cleaning, you should consider the sort of pool you have and the kind of care it will need. Keep in mind that well-maintained pools may be a valuable asset when it comes time to sell your house. Pool care specialists who are exceptional at keeping a pristine pool might be hired by homeowners who lack the time to maintain their pools themselves. Surprisingly, above-ground pools may be more expensive to maintain, mainly if there is no deck around the pool. The professionals have a harder time getting to the water and maintaining the pool without a deck.

Maintaining a pool in top condition—clean, disinfected, algae-free, and pH-balanced—will eat up a good chunk of your spare time, whether it's an above-ground pool or an in-ground one. Swimming pool maintenance is not a task you can leave to itself or set and forget. The bare minimum maintenance tasks are: skimming the pool and emptying the filter baskets; sweeping the pool's walls; vacuuming the pool; activating the filter; checking the pool's water level and, if required, replenishing it; analyzing the composition of the water in the pool and adding chemicals if necessary. This work has to be done often. Every day, it's a good idea to skim, check the baskets, and ensure the filter is working properly.

Safety First

Owning a pool gives you a fantastic opportunity to teach children the value of water safety in a relaxed, familiar setting. If you're going to close your pool for the winter, make sure it has a secure cover so that both kids and animals can't trip over it or run across it. Your pool will be shielded from the weight of snow and ice, and opening it in the spring will be simpler. Although it may be more expensive up front, this style of cover ends up saving money over time by keeping out debris and reducing damage to the pool, in addition to the peace of mind it offers.

Materials

Pools are made of several materials. Concrete and fiberglass pools are the most often used. Since they are pre-molded, fiberglass pools are simple to install. You may have your pool ready for use in just a few days. If you don't want to stress about calcium buildup and chemical imbalances in the water, these are the best solutions because they are robust and long-lasting. Steel is used to support concrete swimming pools, making them the most durable choice. The installation of a concrete pool might take up to three months, but it is the strongest of the lot. However, you will have more freedom with a concrete pool to customize it to your tastes in terms of depth, size, design, and interior finishing.

Know the Risks

You must be aware of the dangers and risks associated with owning a pool before purchasing one for your house in order to protect your family. Listed below are some tips for keeping your pool secure: 

-Never leave children alone around the pool.

-Enforce rigorous pool restrictions and ensure that minors and non-swimmers are under adult supervision when utilizing the pool.

-Consider constructing a fence or one with a self-closing gate, and make sure first-aid supplies and life-saving flotation gear are nearby and easily accessible.

Owning a pool does require some work and recurring costs. But in the majority of situations, having a pool can be a fulfilling experience that offers happiness and forges cherished family memories.

How to Turn Your Bathroom into A Luxurious, Relaxing Place

From a space with a specific purpose, the bathroom has become a small sanctuary of every home. It is the place where you wash off everything from the outside world and enter an oasis zone. Whether you want to shower until you are sleepy, doze off in a tub or make using body lotion a ritual, your bathroom is your safe place. Turn your bathroom into a luxurious, relaxing place smoothly with the following examples, even if you are on a budget. 

Buy new towels 

Even though towels might be the last investment on your mind, they should be the first ones you buy while remodelling a bathroom into a spa. Imagine having a massage appointment, a long bath, or essentially doing anything bathroom related - the soft textiles touching your body are always part of the experience. Choose soft colours that you associate with spa or relaxation like white, grey, beige, lilac, or sage. One colour or coordinated colours will depend on the rest of your bathroom colour scheme. 

Dim lighting 

After a long, busy day filled with appointments and multiple obligations, your only thought should be the time off. This is where dimmed lights act as a great intro to sleep – put off your phone and avoid using screens while relaxing in the bathroom. Rest your eyes under dimmed lights of a shade or a scented candle. If you consider doing this with your significant other, the dimmed lights will definitely add to the romantic atmosphere. Whether you choose the lamps with dark shades or you invest in a dimmer switch, your lighting will be your great ally.

Add more open storage room, handles, and hooks 

The key to enjoying your bathroom to the fullest is a neat organization, which is where a bathroom store can offer more than a few solutions. Shower heads with multiple benefits, fancy faucets, elegant cabinets, or simple handles and hooks can change your bathroom in the few minutes needed to install any of these. Looking at the towel piles and massaging oils will quickly become relaxing. Shower screens can make you feel like you just got into an old movie or provide less water to clean later. 

Install a quality shower head or smart shower 

As bathtub installation is not exactly a quick fix to make your bathroom a home spa, the same doesn’t apply to the shower if you have one. Smart shower control panels are not that complicated to install. In contrast, a better-quality shower head can be a quick DIY project on a lazy weekend. Carefully choose a shower head that can switch water pressure to enjoy a massage or have a perfect warm rain above you while taking a long bath. 

Connect to the spa experience with beautiful smells 

The whole spa experience is an experience for an entire body and mind. Satisfaction of every sense is a priority, which is precisely why candles, essential oils, or home scents must be included in your shopping list. The known relaxation smells are infused with eucalyptus and lavender, but this doesn’t mean they are the only ones. Citrus smells, sage, rose, lotus and many others can bring you desired piece of mind if they are up to your taste. 

Add greenery and flowers 

The candles and essential oils might not be the only way of introducing smell to your home spa – hang a branch of eucalyptus on the shower for freshwater delight. The other great way to make your steamed bathroom give off the scent of the earth is to put the flower pots in your bathroom. The great choices for potted plants in the bathroom include ferns, palms, and lucky bamboo, whereas dried might not be the perfect choice for the home spa experience. 

Put drawer organizers to have everything ready for use 

The great thing about the spa is that everything has its place; if you need it, you can see it and grab it. However, with using many products, our drawers get quickly cluttered. To avoid the stress of looking for a suitable face mask, order some drawer organizers, put ‘decluttering drawers’ in your schedule, and leave only what you intend to use. Make some categories so your spa time will not be interrupted in any way, not even by your own previous recklessness. 

Calming colour scheme 

The whole point of the bathroom spa is to enjoy every part of it, including its design. Even tiles can be replaced by water-safe wallpapers and wall stickers so that you can refresh your interior design without doing costly tile replacement. Go for the colour scheme you connect with relaxation, peace, or the colours you love to look. 

Remember that achieving a luxurious design doesn’t need to break the bank and that your perfect little home spa might only be one shopping away from you. Don’t be afraid to get some bathroom accessories from a nearby  bathroom store for inspiration and make use of next lazy weekend. 

Guest Contributor: Tim Tylor

4 Common Water Heater Problems — How to Fix it

If your water heater is having problems, this does not mean you need to replace it quickly. Instead, you can fix the problem at your home by yourself or call a professional. The repair cost is much less than the replacement cost, but you first need to find the water heater problem.  

The problem inside the heater may vary depending on the type of heater you have. The most common issue with the electric heater is the failure of the electric circuit, while carbon formation and combustion odor is the problem with the gas water heaters. 

If you leave the water heater problem unresolved, it will lead to a big unresolvable issue. Here is a quick guide that will help you understand your water heater problem and give you the idea of fixing the issue.

Safety first

Do not forget to switch off the power supply before troubleshooting the issue.

Temperature issue

It is the most apparent issue you might face with your water heater. Here are the 3 temperature issues you will likely face.

No hot water 

The probable reason for no hot water from the water heater may differ depending on whether you have an electric or gas heater. If you have an electric heater, then these might be the reasons:

• The thermostat became faulty.

• The heater is not receiving power.

In the case of a gas water heater, you have to check whether the gas valve is on or if the burner is effectively working or not. 

How to fix it

The heater will not receive power if its breaker gets tripped and the fuse is blown. In the first case, switch off the breaker and turn it on again. In the latter case, replace the defected fuse with the functional one. 

The faulty thermostat can be corrected only by replacing the failed heating element. If the high temperature has cut off, the heater will give off the cold water. To fix it, switch off the beaker, open the access panel of the upper thermostat and press the reset button and turn on the power supply.

Inadequately hot

The inadequately hot water might be due to an undersized water heater, which means the demand is more than the limit. 

For instance, if the limit of your water heater is 50 gallons, it will produce 40 gallons of hot water, but if you exceed the limit, the heater will start pouring inadequately hot water.  

How to fix it

The only way to fix the problem of inadequate warm water is to limit the demand. If your heater capacity is large enough to manage all your demands and still produces lukewarm water, then there must be some issue with the upper or the lower thermostat. 

Too Hot water

Too hot water pours from the tape when the thermostat is set too high. It may also occur rarely due to a fault in the temperature pressure valve.

How to Fix It

Getting too hot water from the water heater is not a significant issue. Check the heater setting manual to adjust the temperature of the thermostat. The recommended temperature is 120 degrees Fahrenheit which will maintain the heat, and the heater will also work efficiently. 

Discoloration of water and bad smell

The water heater sometimes starts producing rusty water. It is a clear indication of corrosion in the inner lining of the water heater tank. Bacterial growth inside the tank produces an unpleasant rotten egg smell.

How to fix it

You can not fix this problem on your own because to troubleshoot this issue, you need to replace the anode rod. Call the best plumbers club to hire a professional plumber to resolve this water heater problem. If the water discoloration is not due to a malfunctioning anode, you need to replace the water heater. 

Water Leakage

Leaky water heater tanks are the most severe problem that needs to be fixed quickly because it damages other household goods. The heater may leak due to the damaged temperature and pressure relief valves, loose heating element bolts, or loose plumbing connections.

How to fix it

To fix the leakage, tighten the heating element bolts with the help of a wrench. If necessary, replace the valves. Tank leakage occurs due to corrosion which no one can repair, so it is good to replace the water heater.

Noise Production

It is also the case that the tank starts making noise due to the sediment or scale build-up. This sediment overheats the tank's surface and the water boils which may also produce sound. On the other hand, the heating element sometimes produces a snapping and popping sound when you run the heater.

How to fix it

Drain the water completely to get rid of the sediment and scales. If your heater is still producing sound, there might be other issues, so you need to consult a professional plumber to get this job done.

Rare water heater problems

Some other issues that may occur in the water heater are:

• Water takes too long to heat up. It is due to defective heating elements.

• Another problem with the water heater is low water pressure due to the comparatively narrow pipe. 

• The pilot light in case of the gas heater stays light due to a defect in the gas valve.

Monthly maintenance and cleaning of your water heater increase its life, and the heater will not create these common issues. 

Guest Contributor: Zahid

How Can Adding A Fireplace Help In Elevating Your Home

A fireplace is a beautiful addition to any home. It can help to elevate the look of your house and make it more inviting. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the benefits of having a fireplace in your home. We will also talk about the different types of fireplaces that are available on the market today. If you are thinking about adding a fireplace to your home, be sure to read this blog post!

1. Adding a fireplace can help increase the value of your home 

To many people, a home is not truly a home without a fireplace. Not only does it give the illusion of comfort and security, but it also makes a house feel like a real home. If you're looking to increase the value of your home, adding an elegant looking fireplace is a great way to do so. Not only will it make your home more desirable to potential buyers, but it will also give you a great return on investment.

2. A fireplace can act as a focal point in any room 

If you have a particularly large room or an oddly shaped space, adding a fireplace can help to create a natural focal point. This is especially beneficial if you plan on spending a lot of time in the room, such as in a family room where you gather to watch TV or play games. In these cases, the fireplace can become the gathering spot and make the room feel cozier.

Also, a fireplace can serve as a conversation starter. When you have guests over, they will naturally be drawn to the fireplace and it can provide a great opportunity for you to chat and get to know them better.

3. There are many different types of fireplaces to choose from 

When it comes to adding a fireplace to your home, you have many different options. You can go with a traditional wood-burning fireplace, a gas fireplace, or an electric fireplace. Each type has its own set of benefits that can help to improve your home.

Wood-burning fireplaces are the most common type of fireplace. They provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere to any home. Gas fireplaces are more efficient than wood-burning fireplaces and provide a cleaner burn. Electric fireplaces are the most convenient type of fireplace as they do not require any special installation or gas lines.

4. A fireplace can provide comfort and warmth on cold winter days 

In the dead of winter, there is nothing quite like snuggling up in front of a roaring fire. A fireplace can provide both comfort and warmth on those cold days and nights. Not only will it take the chill out of the air, but it will also create a cozy and inviting atmosphere in your home.

If you have never experienced the joy of sitting by a fireplace, you are truly missing out. There is something about the flames that just makes you feel at ease and can even help you relax after a long day. If you are looking for a way to add a little bit of luxury to your home, then adding a fireplace is definitely the way to go.

5. Fireplaces come in many different sizes, so you can find one that will fit perfectly in your home

You should know that there are different types of fireplaces. Some are meant to be installed in the wall while others are free-standing. There are also outdoor fireplaces that you can use to spruce up your patio or deck area.

The type of fireplace that you choose should be based on your needs and preferences. If you have a small home, then a wall-mounted fireplace would be a good option. If you have a larger home, then a free-standing fireplace would be a better choice.

6. Things you need to consider before installing a fireplace

Since you would be making a significant investment in a fireplace, it is important to do your research and understand all the things you need to take into account before installation. This way, you can be sure that your fireplace will not only elevate the look of your home but also provide the functions that you desire.

Here are some of the things you need to consider before installing a fireplace:

- The type of fuel you would like to use 

- The design and size of the fireplace 

- The installation process and cost 

- Whether or not you need a permit 

- How the fireplace will impact your home’s energy efficiency

No matter which type of fireplace you choose, adding a fireplace to your home can help to elevate the style and sophistication of your home. Fireplaces add a touch of luxury and can make any home feel more inviting. If you are looking for a way to improve your home, consider adding a fireplace. It is a great way to add value and beauty to your home.

6 Money-Saving Tips When Furnishing Your New Home

Not having a lot of money to work with, you search for ways to save money when furnishing the home. You might splurge for the rooms that you care the most about and save on the rooms that don't matter as much. Looking for places to buy, you have no shortage of potential sources since you can find furniture everywhere. Let's look at some tips to save money on furniture.

1. Buy Direct

The cost of furniture drops when you buy straight from the manufacturer. While stores sell the furniture at retail prices, the manufacturer sells at wholesale prices. You eliminate the middleman who tacks on the extra cost to earn a profit. In addition, you often receive better customer service when you buy directly because the manufacturer understands the furniture better.

2. Shop at Thrift Stores

Anyone looking to save money on furniture should visit the local thrift store. Secondhand furniture offers a less expensive way to shop for furniture, and you can often find sturdy and affordable furniture here. Just keep in mind that you don't want to buy furniture made from particle board. Most particle board furniture will last for a single user. You don't want to buy it from a thrift store because it is most often destined for the landfill after the first use. Particle board will often cost less than solid wood furniture, but it comes with a large set of problems when used.

3. Think of the Utility

In some cases, you may want to buy more premium quality furniture because it serves a specific purpose. For example, you want quality furniture when it comes to holding up your TV. You don't want the furniture to fall apart while you have the TV on the entertainment system because it will break two items. In some cases, you may want to pay a little more to save yourself from the inconvenience. Especially if you have a heavier TV, you will need an entertainment system that can hold it.

To get the most this way, consider the utility and how frequently you will use it. If the furniture fails, what are the inconveniences that you will face? In some cases, you need to spend money to save money.

4. Build It Up Slowly

You save more money if you buy your furniture slowly over time. This is because you can truly watch for the deals. Making a knee-jerk purchase without understanding the general costs of the market will cause you to pay more for furniture. This idea of delayed gratification may not be everyone's idea of a good choice, but you will save more if you build your furniture collection up slowly. Spread out the more expensive purchases. You don't need to buy the big-ticket items all at once. Prioritize the most important.

For instance, if you are looking at furniture in Edmonton, You can look at the financing options that some companies offer such as 0% interest if you pay it off in a fixed 6-month period.

5. Think Long Term

Even if you can afford to buy the trendy piece of furniture of today, it may not always make the most sense. Trends change quickly as a new piece generates interest, and it is advisable to like the piece that you buy rather than buy for a trend that changes in a couple of years. Instead, you might look for timeless classics that hold interest over the long term.

6. Look for Annual Sales

Every furniture store will host an annual sale, and when you know the time of the year for it, you can buy the items that you want at a discounted price. Seasonal discounts give you another opportunity to save money. Some of the best times to get a discount include:

●      Fourth of July

●      Memorial Day Weekend

●      Black Friday

●      Labor Day

Now, 10 percent may not seem like much on a small item, but when it comes to big-ticket items, that can save you a ton of cash.

Conclusion

Beware of impulse purchases for furniture that you don't necessarily need. For example, if you shop online, put the item in your cart and wait 48 hours. If you still want to buy it after 48 hours, hit the buy button. Furnishing a new home doesn't have to cost an outrageous amount of money, and you can do certain things to save cash.

 Guest Contributor: Tracie Johnson

Cop on the Roof Special Olympics Fundraiser - August 19th, 2022

Friday, August 19th is “Cop on the Roof” the Tinley Park Police Department will be raising funds for Special Olympics. I’ll personally be there between 8AM and 10AM.

We will be at my favorite Dunkin, on 171st and 80th in Tinley Park 7935 W. 171st Street

***I just purchased 100 gift cards to hand out to anybody I see donating towards Special Olympics on Friday****

“The Tinley Park Police Department will be
participating in the Law Enforcement Torch Run
"Cop on a Rooftop" fundraising event for
Special Olympics on Friday, Aug. 19 at various
Dunkin' locations across Tinley Park.
This fun, community-driven event is a
partnership between law enforcement and
Dunkin' stores to raise funds to support the
more than 26,000 participating athletes of
Special Olympics.
Come out to any of the below
Dunkin' locations and help the cause!
•7086 W. 183rd Street
•7935 W. 171st Street
•9500 W. 179th Street
Visit the Special Olympics Illinois website to
learn more about the 2022 Cop on a Rooftop
even. “

UPDATE**

You guys gave us 1,000 likes, so we donated $1,000 dollars to the Special Olympics.

Thank you to everyone that came out to support the Special Olympics.

Between 8AM and 10AM, we gave out 150 gift cards to everyone we saw donating.

You guys are the BEST

It was great seeing old faces and

meeting new friends.

Special THANK YOU to the Tinley Park Police

Department and Dunkin on 171st & 80th.

Why Community Living is Gaining Popularity

Community living is an increasingly popular option for older adults and young people. There are several benefits, including cost savings, social interactions, providing individuals with a sense of belonging, etc., which are a great contribution to the popularity of community living. So here are some reasons why community living is becoming more popular.

1. Cost Savings

The biggest reason more older adults and young people are choosing the community living option is that it is less expensive than a retirement home or an assisted living facility. This is due to the fact that retirement homes or assisted living facilities often charge higher fees, which individuals are not ready to spend. However, in the case of community living, individuals can find a roommate with whom they can share all household costs, such as rent, food, transportation, and other expenses.

2. You Have More Flexibility

If you decide to live in a community, you will have more freedom and control in your life. For example, if you're an older adult who wants to stay active and independent, but you want some help with things like paying utility bills, taking care, scheduling errands, and shopping for food, community living is the perfect option. You will be able to live your life on your terms. If at any time you want more or less help from the staff in the community, they will help accommodate that. For example, if you want help with more financial matters, let the staff know, and they will take care of it for you.

3. You Have More Social Opportunities

You can experience more social connections in a community than living alone. In addition to regular planned social events and outings, you can spend time with other residents during mealtimes, get to know each other by sharing stories and experiences, and even play games or participate in activities together. Additionally, you will be able to do things with people in the community and have access to many resources like transportation services, housekeeping services, and other amenities, depending on the community.

4. You Have More Support

There is a sense of community and support in living in a community. You can do things with your neighbors and be involved in the overall activities, such as sitting together during meals or participating in group activities. You will get to know other residents by seeing them daily and meeting new people through the staff. You will have a support network ready to lend a hand when needed. If you choose, you can also look forward to being involved in the decision-making process regarding your life and living environment.

5. It is Affordable

Community living is a great option for those looking for a lower-cost alternative. Its affordability can help many older adults who are on a fixed income. This means that you can be comfortable and happy with your lifestyle in a community without having to worry about how you will pay your rent or mortgage. There is also the option of renting from a leasing community, where you can choose which home you want and then rent it monthly. Another option is buying an existing home in a community.

6. Provides a Sense of Belonging

The sense of belonging you feel living in a community is priceless. Everyone has their best interest at heart when you live in a community. Your friends and neighbors will greet you in the morning or send you off with hugs and smiles when you leave for an appointment. You don't have to worry about the person cooking your meals because you know they will be very safe during their time in the kitchen. You can always rely on the staff in a community to take care of your needs.

Conclusion

Community living is a great option for many people looking to live fulfilling lives. You get to live in an accepting environment surrounded by like-minded individuals, and you have the security of knowing everyone is there for your best interests. You can go about your daily life more flexibly, making all the difference.

Guest Contributor: Regina Thomas

How To Cover Costly Home Repairs

Major home repairs often come unexpectedly and at a high cost. From broken windows to a leaky roof or pipes, home repairs can set you back hundreds or thousands of dollars. Avoid financial devastation by understanding your options for funding emergency home repairs, courtesy of the experts at Junior Rooter Plumbing and Sewer

Cost of Common Emergency Home Repairs 

The price tag on home repairs varies by location, whether you complete the work yourself or outsource the job and the scope and complexity of the repair. According to experts, annual home maintenance and repair costs total roughly 1-4% of a home's value.

Seven Ways To Pay For Home Repairs

Emergency home repairs, by definition, are time-sensitive. Delaying due to money concerns can escalate issues and drive up repair costs. Here are seven ways to pay for sudden and expensive repairs:

1. Homeowners Insurance

Standard homeowners insurance policies provide coverage for home repairs if the damage stems from a covered loss such as fire, theft or specified weather events. This option only makes sense when repair costs exceed your deductible.

2. Government Assistance
Depending on your situation, you may qualify to receive aid from government programs for emergency repairs. Visit your state or local government’s housing department website to check program offerings and eligibility requirements.

3. Home Warranty
A home warranty plan covers the service, repair and replacement of major home appliances and systems as listed in the annual service contract. Home warranties can be helpful when you have older appliances and systems that you anticipate will need repair in the near future.

4. Home Equity Line of Credit
A HELOC is a revolving credit line that allows you to borrow against the value of your home. You withdraw money as needed and repay according to the terms of your credit agreement.

5. Refinancing
If interest rates are low enough and you plan on staying in your home for a while, try refinancing to free up some cash. Refinance to lower your monthly mortgage payment and divert the money saved to an emergency repair fund. Or opt for a cash-out refinancewhich pays you a lump sum of the difference between your existing mortgage and a new, higher one.

6. Credit Card

Using plastic can be a smart move with the right card. Look for one that offers an introductory 0% annual percentage rate on purchases for a set period. This allows you to cover repairs without paying interest.

7. Emergency Fund

The best idea is to establish an emergency fund exclusively for home maintenance expenses. Adjust your budget to include regular contributions. Factor in hidden costs such as storage fees to keep furniture and other valuables during repairs.

Tips To Secure Reliable Contractors

Have you ever heard someone say, “I got a guy for that” when referring to home maintenance tasks? Finding a good contractor is just as crucial as finding ways to pay for repairs. Here’s how to make sure you “got a guy” for key areas of your home:

•       Plumbing: Check that any plumber you hire is licensed and insured.

•       Roofing: Look for a reputable pro who has extensive experience.

•       Electrical: Inquire about service warranties.

•       Concrete: Ask about their portfolio

Regardless of whether you need plumbing, roofing, electrical or concrete repair, ask for recommendations for local services from your community. You can also peruse online directories to read reviews before contacting a company. Scope out deals and promotions that can help you save on any necessary repairs or replacements.

Ease the stress of emergency home repairs. Set money aside each month for repairs. If you’re strapped for cash when repairs arise, choose a financing option that allows you to spread payments out over time. And, most importantly, hire quality repair services that enable you to fix your home without damaging your finances.

Guest Contributor: Emily Graham

P.A.W.S in Tinley Park

Yesterday afternoon, I received a phone call from Jeff and Stephanie Cote, letting us know that someone stole the catalytic converter off of PAWS’ van (How anybody can hurt and take from a non for profit, is beyond me).
I swear, Jeff and Stephanie are angels, they said, “let’s come together to help them out”.
Jeff and Stephanie donated $1,000, and we put in $1,000 dollars.

It is unfortunate what happened, but we’re blessed to be able to help out a non for profit like PAWS in Tinley Park.

We’re so proud to live and help out our community whenever we can.

In addition, as of this morning, the community has raised $6,375!!!!!