Things To Know When Choosing a Carpet

When you need to buy a new carpet for your home, you may be overwhelmed by the many choices you will be presented with. You will have many quality carpets to choose from so the decision of ending up with the right one can be difficult especially if this is your first time. 

If you’re torn in between several designs and layouts, then check out these tips to help you on your carpet-choosing decision.

1. Do learn about the fiber types – Figure out which one would work best for you. Not all carpet fibers are created equal; for example, there are natural fibers, such as wool, and synthetic fibers, which are more commonly used in wall-to-wall carpet. Understand the characteristics of each fiber type so that when you go shopping, you can almost immediately narrow down your selection. Source: The Spruce
2. Picking the Right Carpet Color – Although it may seem simple, selecting the right color of carpeting is no easy task. The first thing you should consider is the color of your home furnishings. You’ll want to make sure they complement each other. Two options that can make coordinating your furniture and carpet easier are flecked and neutral colors.

• Flecked Colors – Flecked colors are found in Berber carpets, the small flecks of colors contrast with solid colors and help with coordinating your carpet and furnishings. Flecked colors come in an assortment of colors from bold brights to nice neutrals.
• Neutral Colors – Neutral colors leave the statement making colors to your furnishings and wall paint. To balance any room, pick carpet that is neutral in color. This also makes updating your home easier down the road as neutral floors can be made to match almost any look.

Next, you should take into consideration how often the carpet will be walked or played on. You should avoid white or light-colored carpets in rooms where children and pets gather. However, if you go too dark, you’ll be able to see every piece of dust and dander. You best bet is to choose a mid-toned carpet. Source: Style Flooring

3. Stain Resistance – Durability is great, but what happens if you spill on that beautiful carpet on the very first day it’s installed? Many fibers, such as Solution Dyed Polyester or Continuous Filament Polyester, have inherent stain resistance, because they don’t absorb liquids easily. You can also choose a fabric with a stain treatment. Whole fiber system stain treatment protects the entire fiber and the backing, while topical stain treatment will only protect the tips of the fiber and is less effective. 
4. Warranties – Be aware that many wear warranties only cover bald spots, not the normal “wear-and-tear” that most homeowners may assume would be covered, and crushing warranties usually say that if the pile height can be restored (even if only temporarily), then it isn’t covered. So, while these warranties are fine, what you should really focus on is the warranty offered for the installation. If your carpet isn’t installed properly, what recourse do you have? Source: Sea Island Builders

Choosing the right carpet shouldn’t be too much of a problem just as long as you follow the tips we mentioned above. If you need more help, just contact us by using the information below!

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Signs To Change Your Door Locks

Your door locks are important in keeping your prized possessions secured at home. It provides a safety barrier against intruders who can enter at any time.

However, door locks are not meant to last forever, and they can give way sooner or later. It can be unsettling for every homeowner or tenant when this happens. 

When you’re away, you don’t want your locks compromised because it can put your home in danger even when you think that every point of entry has been securely locked. The best thing you can do to prevent this scenario from happening is to change your entrance locks for added security. 

Make sure to keep a look out for these signs:

1. Stolen or lost keys – No doubt, this is one of the best times that you can opt for changing locks. Check all heavy-duty cylindrical locks because they might not be as heavy-duty as you think if someone’s stolen the keys.

In case this happens, the first thing you need to do is change the locks immediately. Don’t pin hopes on someone recovering them or also continuing living with the missing key as you can end up putting your home at tremendous risk.

Strangers can access locks even when you’re away, so change the locks because there are high chances that there might be someone monitoring your absence and might use this opportunity to break in. Whenever you lose your keys, ensure you change the locks, so you don’t fall into the same trap. Source: McCoy Mart

2. Your house has been broken into – Burglaries are a terrible invasion of your personal space. They can be emotionally upsetting, never mind financially expensive. When you’ve experienced a break-in, you have to assume the worst. The worst-case scenario is that the burglars who did it now have possession of your keys and have control of your locks.

Even if you have a tight inventory and you feel all keys are accounted for, don’t take the chance. You can’t be assured your keys aren’t in wrong hands. Replacing your locks is a small price to pay to offset the possibility they may return for the rest of your belongings.

Many burglaries are committed by manipulating, picking or cheating the locks. If this was the method of entry in your burglary incident, it means you have inferior locks, and the break-in could easily be repeated. Locks are also damaged during break-ins and make them more vulnerable to future forced entries.

Take insurance issues into account after experiencing a burglary. If your keys were taken and a burglar returns, your insurance company may find fault that you failed in taking due diligence for prevention. This could negate a future insurance claim that could be prevented by replacing your door locks. Source: Ernie’s Lock

3. Every 7 years – Door locks experience wear and tear like any other part of the house. Over time, they will need replacing so that they can function correctly, without any problems and to the latest home security standards. It is recommended that you change your locks at least every 7 years, however, you can change them more frequently for your peace of mind or to simply upgrade. Source: Halls Locksmiths

Looking to get your locks changed? Give us a call!

 

Contact:

Prime Locksmith

(778) 868-4628

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Home Safety Checklist

Make your home festive, safe, and secure this holiday season. With a little bit of planning and some smart safety measures, you can ensure your family enjoys this special time without worrying about potential risks. Put your mind at ease by following these tips:

Check windows and doors for signs of damage

Windows and doors are a prime entry point for burglars and should be inspected for damage regularly to prevent easy access.

If you discover signs that your windows or doors need to be repaired or replaced, there are plenty of options available to provide better security and create peace of mind. Consider advanced locks and sturdy door materials, as well as impact-resistant and high-security windows to prevent break-ins. Source: Modernize

Secure your sliding glass doors using a secondary lock or rod

Burglars love sliding doors, especially during the summer when they’re often left unlocked or open. You should know July and August are the two hottest months for break-ins, so be sure your sliding doors are locked, and outfitted with a secondary locking mechanism or dowel to provide additional security. Source: Safewise

Check the surrounding landscape

Trim shrubs and trees near windows and doors that provide hiding places for burglars, and prune limbs that serve as ladders to upper windows. Source: RealSimple

Invest in a safe

In a perfect world, intruders would never make it into your home, and so you’d never have to worry about your valuables being stolen. Unfortunately, even the best-laid plans can go astray. And on the off-chance that an intruder does make it into your home, you want to make sure they can steal as little as possible.

First, consider buying a safe or lockbox where you can keep things like cash, jewelry, important documents and other items you wouldn’t want a thief to walk away with. As far as bigger items such as electronics, you can make them more difficult to steal by putting them in a concealed place when you aren’t using them. Thieves want to be in and out of your home as quickly as possible, so even the smallest deterrent can help. Source: CNET

Ready to get started? Give us a call. We’ll help you make your home safe and secure for the holidays – and all year long.

 

Contact:

Prime Locksmith

(778) 868-4628

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How To Clean Vomit off Your Carpet

While there’s no doubt that the holiday season is filled with all kinds of wonderful things, it can also bring on its own special set of headaches and messes to deal with. One such messy situation that might happen as we indulge in treats during this festive time? Vomit on our carpets! If you’ve recently had to face this predicament, never fear. Today’s blog post is here to help guide you through how to clean vomit off your carpet quickly and easily so you can get back to celebrating the holidays without any fuss. 

Scrape off the excess

Do not rub the vomit into the carpet. No matter which way you get the excess vomit off your carpet, do not rub it into the carpet. Pressing down when removing the vomit can push the vomit into the carpet fibers, making it twice as difficult to remove.

Towels can result in vomit pressed into the carpet. Sliding flat objects, like spatulas, cardboard, or scrapers, under the vomit might help prevent this. Source: WikiHow

Remove what remains

1. Sprinkle the stain with an absorbent substance.You can use a commercial carpet deodoriser, salt, or baking soda. 
2. Leave for 10-15 minutes. This should be enough time to start to lift the vomit from the fibres of your carpet.
3. Vacuum.Use a brush attachment and go over the whole stain.
4. Treat with a carpet cleaner or stain remover. Follow the instructions on the label and test a small patch first to ensure it does not cause any damage to the carpet.
5. Blot the stain with a damp cloth. DO NOT scrub as this is only likely to push the vomit further into the carpet fibres.
6. Leave it to dry. Ideally overnight.
7. Repeat as needed.Keep going until the stain is fully removed. Source: Cleanipedia

Leave it to the pros

If you have a carpet that is made out of wool or is a thick shag rug, you should consider contacting a professional to handle the job. They can also handle the larger and tough-to-get-out stains easier. Additionally, if you try to remove a stain and still can’t get it out, it’s best to let the professionals handle it. Make sure to choose a reputable professional carpet cleaner to clean your carpet. Good professional cleaners have the proper equipment to extract the moisture from the carpet, leaving it almost dry. Source: TheSpruce

If you’re not sure how to tackle the job yourself or would prefer to have a professional take care of it for you, feel free to give us a call. We’re always happy to help!

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How to Keep Hardwood Floors Looking New

Inviting people over for the holidays? One of the things that will first get their attention is your floor. Impress your guests by following these tips:

Keep dirt off every day

Sweep, vacuum, or dust mop daily to remove dirt that can cause scratches and wear down the finish of the floor. Don’t forget to look under area rugs that can trap grit that will scratch floors. Source: TheSpruce

Make it shine

Like any good manicure, regular buffing and polishing will keep your hardwood floor shiny and healthy.

• For polishing, start in the corner of the room and pour an S-shaped amount of floor polish right onto the wood floor. Use a flat-surface mop and go back and forth along the wood grain. Work on small patches at a time until finished. 
• For buffing, start by hand and only consider an electric buffing machine for large and significantly worn pieces of wood. Start by rubbing brass wool over any damaged areas until the scratch or ding levels out. Next, polish the area using the above method. Finish with a buffing pad to make the floor nice and shiny. Source: Angi

Be sure to check the cracks for dirt

Older wood floors and poorly installed hardwood can have cracks between the boards that trap dirt and dust. The cracks can worsen during periods of low humidity when the wood dries out. Removing the dirt and debris that becomes trapped is easy but a bit time-consuming. Clean in small sections, starting at the far corner of the room and working your way out the door, so you can come back to where you left off if you can’t do the entire room at once.

Combine 2 cups warm water and 1/4 cup distilled white vinegar. Dip a soft-bristled toothbrush in the solution and shake until just damp. Gently scrub the cracks and then wipe away the debris with a soft cloth or vacuum it up with a handheld vac or a vacuum with a crevice tool. Dust mop and clean the floor as usual. Source: RealSimple

Noticed any chips on your hardwood floors? Give us a call! We’ll get them sorted before your holiday parties start.

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Door Lock Maintenance Tips You Should Know

Is your door lock functioning properly? Are you confident that your home is as protected as it can be? Like most homeowners, you may not give much thought to your door locks until there’s a problem. But by taking a little time to perform routine maintenance on your locks, you can help ensure your home’s security. Here are some tips to get you started:

Keep the original copy of your keys

Another way to maintain your door is to use the keys properly. Keys may wear before the locks do. When you’re installing new locks, it’s wise to set aside another copy of the original keys to use when making duplicates.

When the area starts to wear out, you must replace it. Continuing to use worn keys may damage the locking mechanism or cause the key to break. Remember that duplicates are never exact, and some variances increase when copies are made from another duplicate. This variance can make a difference between a good and a working key.

If your duplicate keys aren’t functioning well or your original keys are already worn out, you might want to replace or rekey your locks. This will help you avoid getting locked out of your house and making an emergency call to your trusted locksmith. Source: E-Architect

Make sure the locking mechanism is clean

Dirt, dust, and grime build up in small mechanisms of our locks—especially where the latch and deadbolt connect with the frame. Every time we press the key into the keyway, small particles build up on the pins inside the locking mechanism. Dirt also collects in and around the strike plate, the hinges, and the door’s threshold.

Remove the dirt, but don’t go overboard here. Harsh cleaning solutions or frequent passes with a rough cloth can wear down the parts of the lock if you’re not careful.

You’ll need a bottle of pressurized air, soft cloth or soft-bristled toothbrush, warm water, and a mile cleaner like dish soap. Here are the prime areas to target:

• Keyway: Spray pressurized air into the keyhole—known as the keyway. Wipe the area around the keyway as well. (We’ll cover lubricating locks below.)
• Strike plate: Inspect the plate on the door threshold that connects with the latch or deadbolt. Clean the plate and the borehole and check for disrepair.
• Latch: Move your handle or door knob back and forth to wipe down each part of the latch.
• Deadbolt: Turn the deadbolt open and closed to clean each section of the lock as well.
• Hinges: Wipe down the hinge plates and outside of the hinge pins for built-up dust.
• Tracks and Threshold: Wipe around the frame and threshold of the door, or along the track if it’s a sliding model. Source: Angi

Call in a professional

The moving parts of locks do eventually wear out. So if one of these simple fixes doesn’t work, your lock may need to be professionally repaired or replaced. If you’re experiencing any of the following situations, you should call in a professional locksmith:

• The entire cylinder is turning when you try to use the lock.
• Your jammed lock doesn’t respond after lubrication.
• You can’t remove a key that’s broken off inside your lock.
• The key turns, but the lock doesn’t operate.
• Your lock has been damaged during an attempted break-in.
• You have security concerns and want a deadbolt installed.
• The lock is old and needs to be replaced.

Professional locksmiths have the right tools and training to get the job done efficiently and correctly to ensure the security of your home and family, so don’t hesitate to call for help if you need it. Source: HomeServe

If you experience any problems with your door locks or need assistance with routine maintenance, don’t hesitate to give us a call! 

Contact:

Prime Locksmith

(778) 868-4628

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Do You Need a Biometric Employee Clock-in System for Your Business?

Are you looking for a way to make your business more secure? If so, you may consider investing in a biometric employee clock-in system. Let’s take a look at some of its advantages and disadvantages.

How does it work?

A biometric time clock is a more sophisticated form of a digital clock. Instead of reading a card or accepting a code, it scans a biologically unique attribute of an employee, such as a fingerprint, handprint, iris or retina or the face. Upon hiring, an employee has a particular attribute inputted in the system, and they can use it thereafter not only to clock in or out but also to gain access to the building. The biometric system can prevent employees from clocking in or out for other employees, thereby ensuring a more honest tally of hours. Source: Indeed

Is it widely used?

In a 2019 study, more than a quarter of small North American businesses were using thumbprint scanners as a way of confirming identity, a number that leaps to over 40% for companies with more than 1,000 employees. Even retinal scanners, with their lingering science-fiction reputation, are being used by more than 10% of companies.

Biometrics is a rapidly evolving technology, and if you are considering investing in a biometric time clock system for your business, there are some pros and cons to weigh before making a decision. Source: Workforce

What are the pros?

• They cut down on co-workers clocking in for one another.
• They offer an additional level of security.
• Team members don’t have to remember any passwords.
• There’s no need to issue badges and replace lost or stolen ones.
• They prevent timecards from being altered. Source: Business

How about the cons?

The main disadvantage of biometric timeclocks is the varying scanner quality. Cheaper models may not pick up the subject properly, resulting in false negatives. Fingerprint scanners need to be cleaned frequently to keep scans positive and to stay hygienic. When these time clocks fail, it can be a hindrance to businesses, as the technology needs to be fixed or cleaned. Also, businesses should take extra precautions to ensure employee fingerprints or other biometric data remains secure. Source: BusinessNewsDaily

Do you want to install a biometric clock-in control system? We can help you find one that suits your budget and needs! Call us today.

 

Contact:

Prime Locksmith

(778) 868-4628

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The Best Ways to Protect Your Flooring This Holiday Season

The holidays are a time for celebration, family, and friends. But they can also be a time of mess and mayhem! Between the wrapping paper, the spilled eggnog, and the tracking in of snow and mud, your floors can take a beating this season. Here are some tips on how to protect them from all the holiday chaos.

Keep dirt at bay

Will it snow this Christmas? A big risk to floors, especially during winter, is the combination of dirt, mud and grit that’s used on roads and paths to stop them being so slippery.

‘Grit can be one of the biggest floor destroyers as the rock salt leaves white residue and scratches if dragged along the floor,’ explains Josh. ‘A “no shoes inside” policy or asking guests to change their shoes at the door, and a ban on stilettos, is the ideal.

‘If that makes you feel like Scrooge, then invest in scrapers at the doorstep and mats inside every door. Even pets can track in grit and a handy tip is to keep baby wipes by the door so you can clean their paws quickly,’ he suggests. Source: HouseBeautiful

Place protective barriers

Whether you’re hosting a sit-down dinner or you’re getting ready for a holiday open house, your friends and family will need somewhere to sit down and get comfortable. Your chairs and tables might not move around much throughout the year. During the holidays, however, guests may want to shift furniture around so they can create smaller conversation circles or place drinks and hors d’oeuvres within arm’s reach.

Without a protective barrier between your furniture and your floors, moving tables and chairs can seriously damage hardwood and vinyl. Before guests arrive, add felt pads to the underside of every chair and table leg. These pads make moving furniture much easier, and they also protect your flooring from scratches and impacts. Source: BuildDirect

Put a mat under the tree

O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree, how scratchy are thy branches? Scratchier than you might think, so be extra careful when bringing a fresh tree into your home. If you can, avoid dragging the tree or, if it’s too large to lift, put down mats or blankets to protect your hardwood floor.

Don’t abandon this caution once the tree is in the house, though, as the tree stand can also scratch up the floor. Put an under-the-tree mat or a rubber mat down to protect the floor. The water in your tree stand is yet another thing that can spell disaster for hardwood floors, so test the plastic stand for leaks beforehand. When watering the tree, ensure that you don’t overfill or splash any water. Source: Angi

Get your floors looking like new in time for your Christmas parties. Call us!

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Pros and Cons of Smart Door Locks

Smart locks have become increasingly popular in recent years, thanks to their many benefits. But before you make the switch, it’s important to understand the pros and cons of smart door locks. So read on to learn more about these innovative devices and decide if they’re right for your home.

 

Pros

You can easily allow multiple access

If you’re a vacation rental owner, a customer of cleaning or dog-walking services, or someone who has friends and family popping in often, a smart lock can make life easier for everyone.

No more making key copies or hiding a spare set. Instead, you can give out digital keys using the lock’s accompanying app and even restrict what times someone is allowed to enter your home. For instance, you can allow specific users to enter only on Monday through Friday between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.

There’s also the option to allow roommates and family members unlimited access, so the system works for the entire household. Source: CNET

No need to go back to lock your door

There’s nothing worse than getting on the road and not remembering if you’ve locked your door. Opting for a premium smart lock negates this problem entirely, as many models let you enable an auto-lock function that’ll deadbolt your door after a few minutes of inactivity. Source: DigitalTrends

Cons

You’ll need to change batteries

Regular door locks don’t require software updates or battery replacement. Many smart locks do. And though a particular style of door lock and handle might eventually look dated, it doesn’t face technological obsolescence.

For those who have adopted the digital pass to access most of the doors to their lives, they are at the mercy of their device. So if the phone battery dies, as they are far too well known to do, you get locked out, perhaps from everything – the door, the car, their wallet, oh and the actual phone to call for help. Source: USAToday

You might lock yourself out

If you can barely remember your spouse’s birthday, a lock with a code might not be a good idea— especially since you should change your keyless lock’s code often to prevent the number keys from wearing out and making your code obvious to intruders. Source: Angi

Need help figuring out which smart lock is best for your budget and needs? Give us a call!

 

Contact:

Prime Locksmith

(778) 868-4628

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Sanded vs. Unsanded Grout: Which One Should You Choose?

Tile is a popular flooring option because it’s durable and easy to clean. However, grout can be a challenge to keep looking tidy. In this post, we’ll discuss the differences between sanded and unsanded grout, and help you decide which one is right for your project. Let’s get started!

Tile surface

Sanded grout is used for tile surfaces where the possibility of scratching from the sand content in the tile grout will not be a problem. This feature can be beneficial for do-it-yourselfers who are not confident about their grouting skills and may need to regrout at least one other time.

Unsanded grout is usually recommended for tile that is easily scratched, such as natural stone, glass, and certain porcelains and ceramics. In theory, the sand content in sanded tile grout may damage these surfaces. Source: TheSpruce

Grout joint size

Unsanded grout should be used in joints that are less than 1/8-inch-wide. It has a smooth texture and clings well to vertical surfaces, which makes it useful for grouting ceramic wall tiles. Sanded grout should be used for flooring and wall tile joints wider than 1/8 inch because it resists shrinkage and cracking. It is possible to use sanded grout in thinner joints, but forcing the bulky mixture into these joints is difficult, and pinholes may occur in your finished grout lines. Joints larger than 3/8 inch need heavily sanded grout mixture, which is typically labeled as a wide-joint mixture and is available at most hardware and flooring stores. Source: HomeGuides.SFGate

Installation

Generally speaking, people find that unsanded grout is easier to install because it’s stickier. It’s also a quicker installation because you don’t have to use a sealer (although it’s wise to use one in high-moisture areas).

Sanded grout takes longer to cure and requires a sealer, making it a more time-intensive install. Source: Angi

If you need help deciding which type of grout is best for your project, call us! We would be happy to discuss your options and help you choose the perfect tile and grout for your home.

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Getting Soda Spills Off Your Carpet

Soda spills can be a real pain to clean up, especially if they happen on your carpet. In this post, we’ll show you how to get soda stains and residue off your carpet quickly and easily. Just follow these easy steps.

Blot 

Using a clean cloth, blot the area to remove as much liquid as possible from the carpet. If the stain has occurred on a flattened or matted carpet, use a carpet rake to widen the spaces between the carpet fibers. Much like a leaf rake, its wide-spaced tines work like a wide-bristled brush to open the spaces between the carpet fibers. Source: TheSpruce

Clean

White vinegar and liquid dish soap team up to remove soda stains and residue from carpet fibers. Mix one tablespoon each of vinegar and dish soap into two cups of warm water. Dab the solution over the soda spill after blotting up as much soda as possible with a white absorbent cloth. After 15 minutes or so, pat the area dry with another white cloth. If the stain is still visible, mix one part vinegar with two parts lukewarm water, dip a white cloth into it and place the cloth atop the stain. Set a heavy object atop it such as a glass baking dish, removing it after 15 minutes. Source: Hunker

Rinse

Always use cold water to rinse thoroughly any product used on the carpet once your treatment is complete.

Take care to blot the water from your carpet, drying as much of it as possible by hand. There is no need to rub the water into the carpet or scrub the area. This risks damage to your carpet.

Once you have rinsed the area and dried as much of it as possible by hand, point a fan on a low setting toward the spot, as this helps to dry the area more quickly, reaching down deep within the fibers to help avoid the growth of mold or mildew.

Then, once your carpet is thoroughly dry, run your vacuum cleaner over the area to restore your carpet’s natural fluff and uniformity. Source: HomeStratosphere

Can’t get old stains off your carpet? Call us today and we will make your carpet look brand new again!

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Simple Fixes To Cover Up Ugly Flooring

Changing your flooring can be a costly and time-consuming project. But there are a few easy tricks you can do to cover up unpleasant flooring without having to replace it. Whether your floors are stained, cracked, or just outdated, these tips will help make them look new again. So, if you’re looking for a little bit of instant gratification, read on for some quick solutions!

Vinyl 

A semi-permanent solution to not break the bank is to install vinyl flooring on top of the existing floor. If you are in a rental home, you can use an adhesive that can be removed at a later date. The vinyl tiles or sheets can be installed in just a few hours and can totally change the appearance of your room. If you need to remove the vinyl tiles later, do not grout them as that will permanently lock the tile to the floor. Source: HomeLane

Paint

Painting the unattractive floor is a budget-friendly way to hide surface damage and make your flooring look like new. For a simple look, paint the floor white. However, you can give your room a bold, dramatic look by choosing a bright shade like yellow, green or blue — whatever best suits your decor. You can even use stencils to add a decorative pattern to the floor. Paint is also an effective option for an ugly concrete floor in a basement, sunroom or garage. Source: HomeGuides.SFGate

Floor cloth

What if you’d like to cover up your carpet but can’t afford a large enough area rug or don’t have enough wall space to conceal the awkward border along the perimeter with furniture? Well, area rugs aren’t the only option: You can instead purchase a roll of floor cloth, which is more economical than carpeting, and cut it to size. To take the guesswork out of shrinking the material, purchase preshrunk fabric. Source: BobVila

Do you need help restoring the appearance of your carpeted or tiled floors? Give us a call and get a free estimate!

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How To Keep Your Home Secure While You’re on Vacation

Are you gearing up for a winter vacation but worrying about the security of your home? Don’t worry! We’ve got you covered. Here are some tips to help keep your home safe while you’re away.

Keep all windows and doors secure

Keeping your home locked up will deter most potential vandals or robbers from targeting it. Of course, make sure that you fasten all windows and doors before you leave for vacation. Additionally, if you have a sliding glass door, leave a pole in the track to prevent the door from being forced open. Alternatively, some sliding glass doors have a hole you can stick a nail into, which prevents them from opening. Finally, disable your automatic garage door opener just in case someone has its signal decoded. Source: Chron

Set a timer for your lights

Having lights on in your home is one of the most obvious indicators that the home is not empty. However, if you’re planning to go away for several days, or if you’re really lucky, several weeks at a time, keeping the lights on for the entire duration of your trip is not only going to drive your electric bill through the roof, but it’s also dangerous as it poses a risk for fires.

That said, connecting your lights to a timer is a great option, and you may already have one lying around.

Light timers are a great and cost-effective way to increase the security of your home while you’re away on vacation. You can set the timers to automatically turn your lights on and off at the same times that they typically would be if you were home. You can set up a few throughout the different floors of your home so it appears that people are around and occupying both the upstairs and downstairs. Source: Forbes

Set up a security system

If your home has been burglarized in the past, or if you’re intent on never being a victim to that sort of crime, think about installing an alarm system. Choose from one of the many trusted providers; many offer systems that sync with your smartphone or tablet, allowing you to stay connected to your home no matter where you happen to roam. Source: BobVila

If you’re looking for an extra level of security while you’re away, don’t hesitate to give us a call. We can provide you with expert advice on locks and security systems that will help keep your home safe while you’re out of town. Have a great trip!

Contact:

Prime Locksmith

(778) 868-4628

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What to look for in a security camera

As a homeowner, you know the importance of protecting your property. That’s why you may be considering purchasing a security camera system. But with so many different types and brands available, how do you know which one is right for you? Here are some things to consider before you go shopping.

Motion sensor

The importance of motion sensing for security cameras cannot be overstated, especially if you want to record any suspicious activity that may go on while the camera is active. Rather than recording 24-7, which can quickly fill up a local or cloud storage drive, with motion sensing, you can pause recording until something moves in the frame.

Source: CNET

 

Night vision

Most break-ins occur after dark, so this feature is nearly as important as motion detection. Technically, most home security cameras support infrared LED illumination, versus true night vision based on image intensification or thermal vision. Be that as it may, most cameras will switch to night vision automatically in low-light conditions, while others allow you to customize when and how it should be activated. Increasingly, cameras are equipped with full-color night vision, which enables video footage to capture important information that IR night vision can’t such as the color of an intruder’s clothing or vehicle.  

 

Adjustable field of view

Being able to pan and tilt your camera to change the field of view is a premium feature. This provides more versatility in your setup since you can manually adjust what’s being monitored. This feature may be what you need to avoid having half the screen being blocked by a building.

Source: HowToGeek

 

Remote access

Having the ability to view your camera’s footage remotely is an important feature, given that you won’t have access to your home computer if you’re away on holiday. Here are remote access features to look for:

• Email and SMS/MMS alerts: Can you set the camera to send email/SMS/MMS alerts when they’re triggered? Can it automatically attach a recorded image to the alert?
• Mobile access: You can’t beat the convenience of being able to look into your home remotely via your smartphone or tablet. Most cameras have software for iOS (iPhones) and/or Android OS, but make sure it’s compatible with your system.
• Web access: Is the wireless security camera video feed accessible online, through a computer that’s not part of your home network?

  Source: Choice

 

Need help finding the best security camera system for your budget and needs? Give us a call!

 

Contact:

Prime Locksmith

(778) 868-4628

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Questions to Consider When Buying a Home Security Camera

When it comes to home security, a camera is a great investment. But with so many on the market, it can be tough to know which one is right for you. Here are some questions to consider before making your purchase.

How many cameras will you need?

The amount of security cameras you need depends on the size of your home as well as the amount of security you want in general. At a minimum, we recommend putting a camera in the main entrance of your home on the ground floor. Ideally, you also use outdoor security cameras on all ground floor entrances; however, this won’t apply to someone living in an apartment. For more security, you can put more security cameras on the ground level, and in any room that you use frequently or must pass through to enter or exit your home. For additional security, you can put security cameras in main hallways on second or third floors. However, we don’t recommend placing cameras in bedrooms or bathrooms because of privacy issues.

Source: Security

 

Will you go for a wired or a wireless setup?

Wired cameras don’t need a power source nearby, but they do need to be wired back to a central recording device. As a result, they typically require professional installation. Many wireless cameras need an outlet outside or inside; the latter will require drilling through your exterior wall to route the power cord, but it will prevent someone from unplugging the camera or cutting the cord. Some wireless cameras can be powered by a cam battery that will need to be charged periodically, either with a wall outlet or solar power if the camera is designed for it. The main advantage of wired cameras is that you can record continuously to a local device, and therefore you don’t need to pay monthly cloud storage fees or worry about being hacked. For their part, wireless cameras are much easier to install and many have more advanced features, such as facial recognition, activity zones, and more user-friendly mobile apps for viewing footage remotely.

Source: USNews

 

Do you need active alerts?

Home security cameras push notifications to your smartphone when they detect events. Without watching the live feed all day, this is the only way to keep tabs on your home in relative real time. Depending on the camera, it may send text alerts when it detects motion, sound, a face (known or unrecognized), or all three. Some can send alerts to multiple people, usually anyone else in the household using that product’s app; others will send emails in addition to text messages as a failsafe in the event you can’t access your mobile device.

Source: TechHive

 

Having trouble deciding which security camera is right for your home? Give us a call! We’ll help you find a setup that will suit your budget and needs.

 

Contact:

Prime Locksmith

(778) 868-4628

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How to Remove Chocolate Stains from Carpet

If you’ve ever had a child come home from trick-or-treating covered in chocolate, you know the panic that sets in when you realize the mess they’ve made. Not to worry—removing chocolate stains from carpet is actually quite easy. Follow these simple steps and your carpet will be looking good as new in no time!

Scrape off remaining residue

Lift away the chocolate solids with a dull knife or another similar utensil. If the chocolate melts, try placing an ice cube on it for a minute to harden the chocolate, which may make it easier to lift away. Source: TheSpruce

Do a patch test

Before trying out any cleaning solutions, test a small amount on a patch of carpet. Wait 20 minutes to ensure the product will not damage your carpet. If your carpet starts to turn brown or lighter in color, immediately rinse the solution with cold water. Stop and call a professional. Source: WikiHow

Make use of household cleaners

Use a carpet cleaner to remove the remaining chocolate stains by spraying the stain generously. Let the solution sit on the stain for a few minutes, and then blot with a clean, wet cloth working from the outside of the stain to the center. You can also mix 1/4 teaspoon of dish soap or laundry detergent into a cup of room temperature water and apply it to the stain with a clean cloth, working again from the outside to the center of the stain. If the stain still remains, repeat the cleaning process.

Let the area dry

Remove the cleaning solution you used by rinsing the area with a clean cloth and cold water. Blot the area dry with paper towels. Allow the area to air dry, and then vacuum it before anyone walks over the carpet. Source: SFGate

Have you been trying to remove pesky carpet stains, but they just won’t budge? Give us a call! We can make your carpet look like new in no time.

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What To Do When Your Safe Won’t Open

Are you trying to access your safe but the combination isn’t working? If so, don’t worry – there are several things you can do to open it.

In case of a stuck lever, try this

Spin the first two numbers of your combination as you normally would, but instead of finishing the final rotation, stop on the number eight. Grab a heavy rubber hand-sledge and pound the door—not the dial—a few times. If it’s indeed the lever that’s stuck, this is a potentially quick way to free that sucker up.

 

Once you’ve gotten out a few good whacks, continue on to the final number in your combination, and attempt to open it up. If it doesn’t work, repeat the process a few more times until you get it.

Source: DenGarden

 

Get in touch with the manufacturer

If you have the safe’s manufacturer, model number and serial number, you might be able to get the combination from the manufacturer. Most safe companies have a service that allows you to request the combination or a replacement key. This service usually comes with a fee.

 

However, safe manufacturers are careful about handing out this information to protect safe owners from theft. You’ll need to prove that you’re the owner of the safe. Some companies allow you to register your safe after purchasing it, which makes it easier to retrieve your combination or a replacement key. If you haven’t registered your safe, you’ll likely need to verify your identity as the owner in another way, such as through an online verification service or by having a form notarized.

Source: Hunker

 

Contact a locksmith

The most common reason to need a locksmith is because you have forgotten or lost the combination to your safe. Occasionally safes can also jam or become damaged, in which case you will require the services of a locksmith to get them open and repair them. Ask the locksmith if you will need to provide documentation to prove that you are the owner of the safe before they will open it.

Source: WikiHow

 

If you have forgotten the combination to your safe or if the safe has malfunctioned for some reason, don’t panic! Give us a call!

 

Contact:

Prime Locksmith

(778) 868-4628

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How to Update Tiles Without Replacing Them

So you’re not exactly thrilled with your current tile situation, but you don’t want to replace them all because of how expensive the project can be. What can you do? Luckily, there are a few ways to update tiles without having to pull up all the old ones. Read on for some tips!

Install vinyl 

Vinyl flooring is available in the form of luxury vinyl flooring and traditional vinyl flooring. This is waterproof, has a soft underfoot and can be installed on the existing floor tiles. These are also available in different colours, patterns and designs which simulate the look of wood or natural stone. However it is not advisable to use vinyl flooring in the outdoors or in the indoor areas which are exposed to a lot of sunlight because vinyl has the tendency to fade in the presence of UV light. You can also use simple peel and stick vinyl tile stickers to refresh the look of the flooring. Source: ArchitecturalDigest

Paint it with a new color

Give the bathroom tile a completely new color to upgrade your environment, whether it’s on the floor, the walls, or both. Painting works best away from the tub and shower, where excessive moisture may make it peel away prematurely. For a minor update, paint the top band of tile a new color, such as cobalt blue, to add a fresh new accent to the space, or paint an entire wall’s worth of tile for a new look. Sand the tile gently to scuff it up and make it receptive to primer. Wear a dusk mask to avoid breathing in dust; then wipe the tiles down with a soft rag. A bonding primer is the key to getting paint to stick well to the tile; once that dries, use a latex semi-gloss or gloss paint to ensure the paint finish holds up well to moisture. Apply a water-based polyurethane sealer over your work after the paint dries for several days — especially on floor tile — to prolong the paint finish. Source: HomeGuides.SFGate

Cover it with decals

Another fun way to change up your bathroom tile is by adding tile decals. Decals can be used to conceal a whole tiled area, or you can choose to cover specific damaged or cracked tiles to add a statement pop of color to your bathroom.

Tile decals are fairly easy to apply. You must first ensure the area you want to cover is clean, free of any oil and grease, and totally dry. You can then peel and stick your tile decals over the area.

You can also spruce up an older bathroom tile with a colored grout pen. Changing the grout to a different shade can give your tiles a whole new look in minutes. Source: Hunker

Having trouble deciding which one of these will be your best bet? Give us a call! We’ll work out a solution that will suit your budget and needs.

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How to Avoid Car Theft

Car theft is a serious problem, but there are ways to protect your car and minimize your chances of being a victim. Here are a few tips to help you keep your car safe. 

Keep your keys safe

First, never leave your keys in your vehicle, even if you’re just running into a convenience store or another location for a minute or two. Second, be careful of where you keep your spare key. Storing your spare key on the outside or inside of your car can make it easy for thieves to steal your car. And thanks to the push-start features that new vehicles have, a thief wouldn’t even have to find the key in the vehicle to drive away with it — it would be enough that the key was there.

Source: CNET

 

Don’t park alone

If you are leaving your vehicle in a parking lot, park near other people and in an area where there’s plenty of people coming and going. If possible, park in a spot that is well-lit.

 

Be on the lookout

Be on the lookout for anything suspicious where you leave your car. Are there people lingering around the area that shouldn’t be there? Trust your instincts and never leave your car in an area where you feel it is unsafe.

Source: FamilyHandyman

 

Enhance your home security

Car security doesn’t have to start with your car. Get the jump on anyone prowling your property with these home security features:

• Shine outdoor lights on your car’s parking spot.
• Install a floodlight camera for a live video feed from the safety of your home, and use the two-way audio to scare people away.
• Set up a driveway alarm to know when someone crosses onto your property.
• Use contact sensors and tilt sensors on your garage door, service door, and windows to know when someone breaks in. Source: Safewise

 

Need help in beefing up your home’s security? Give us a call! You can count on us to work within your budget and meet your needs.

 

Contact:

Prime Locksmith

(778) 868-4628

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Types of Flooring You Can Install Over Ceramic Tiles

Are you tired of your old, boring ceramic tile floor? Well, don’t worry—you have plenty of options when it comes to replacing it! Keep reading to learn more.

Laminate 

Laminate flooring goes very well over ceramic tiles. It is a thin, solid flooring system that doesn’t require adhesive, and comes with a padded underlayment that helps smooth out any contour from the ceramic. Laminate is a cheap, fast flooring solution that easily goes right over ceramic tile. Source: Hunker

Vinyl 

Vinyl flooring is a stylish and durable flooring solution that is easy to install. Some vinyl installation types include peel-and-stick, self-adhesive, and interlocking vinyl floor tiles. 

If the top of your old floor is clean and even, you can just lay it down directly over the ceramic tile. 

Vinyl floor tiles are low maintenance, too. You can find water-resistant vinyl tiles that come in realistic hardwood and granite designs. 

Vinyl flooring, however, tends to fade when exposed to sunlight for a long time. So it’s not recommended for outdoors or rooms that get a lot of sunlight. Source: DesigningIdea

Carpet

Carpet is easy to install and offers much more comfort than ceramic tiles. You can customize the thickness of the carpet depending on how much padding you want, but the thicker your carpet, the more floor height you gain. This type of flooring is great for cold and dry areas because it’ll keep your floor warm. Source: Ownerly

Engineered Wood

Solid wood is not a great option as it requires plywood sub-floor before installation, and that plus the thickness of the wood (3/4 of an inch) will more often than not make the flooring too thick. That said, engineered wood can be glued directly onto the tile, making installation easy, and it is much thinner than solid wood. Source: Angi

Is it really necessary to replace your old tiles with new ones? The simplest way to bring life back to your tiles is to repair and clean them. Call us for more information!

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What Is a Sisal Carpet?

Sisal is a natural fiber often used for carpets due to its durability and eco-friendliness. Will this be a perfect choice for your home? Read on to find out!

How is it made?

Sisal fibers originate in a cactus plant called Agave sisalana that grows in Africa and Brazil. Since it is a cactus, it prefers arid desert climates where other kinds of fibrous plants would be scarce. Agave sisalana has long been farmed for its internal, tensile fibers that people make into rope and twine. The fibrous stalks are cut, dried, and treated to produce tan-colored lengths. A popular destination for this twine is to be woven into sisal rugs for the floor. Source: HomeQuestionsAnswered

What are the pros and cons?

It is relatively easy to dye, making it very versatile for flooring design. It can stand up to high-traffic areas without being coarse or uncomfortable underfoot, and it wears well, making it good for high-traffic areas. But it can become slippery with use, so sisal is a poor choice for stairs.

Available in a wide variety of colors and patterns, sisal carpet can be used in almost any room of the house, although it must be used with caution around moisture, which can damage the fibers. The fact that sisal can be so easily dyed also means that it can be easily stained; it requires treatment to make it resistant to dirt and spills. Sisal is also relatively expensive, typically costing more than coir but less than wool. Source: TheSpruce

How to maintain?

Blot spills as they happen. Moisture of any kind can warp the weave of sisal and lead to browning of the fiber, so it is important to address spills as they happen. Blot the spot dry with a clean towel. Avoid rubbing, as this will only spread the moisture. 

Take note of whether the spill left a stain. Even a slight change in color at the time of the spill can quickly alter the color of the rug. Source: WikiHow

Need help identifying which type of carpet material would suit your budget and needs? Call us!

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What To Do if You Lose Your Car Keys

There is nothing more stressful than losing your car keys, especially if you don’t have a spare. But don’t worry, if this happens to you, there are plenty of things you can do. Stay calm and follow these simple steps, you’ll be back on the road in no time!

Consider your options

You should first check your car insurance documents to see if you have signed up for key cover – as many policies offer this as a premium add-on. However, if you do claim on your insurance, it is worth bearing in mind that it may affect your no claims bonus – so, it might cost you more in the long term.

Source: Motorway

 

Call a locksmith

You can replace your lost car key at a locksmith, even if you don’t have the original key. Going straight to a locksmith may be more cost-effective than going to your car dealer, but you’ll need some information to make the process easier.

 

Gather your information

To get a replacement key from a locksmith, you’ll want to have the following information ready: 

• Make of the car
• Model of the car
• Year
• Car registration
• Title 
• Vehicle identification number (VIN)

 

The information will help the locksmith identify what type of key your car needs. You can find your car’s VIN on the dashboard on the driver’s side or the driver’s door. 

You’ll also need this information to prove that you’re the owner of the car. Before the locksmith gets started, they will need to ensure you’re the rightful owner of the vehicle.

Source: MetroMile

 

Get a spare key

Once you have a new key for your car, it’s time to get a spare. It’s going to be easiest just to order two keys at the same time. 

With your spare key, you won’t have to face this level of panic again. The next time you lose your key, you will have another on-hand to get you by until a backup spare can be purchased.

Source: MechanicBase

 

If you need help, don’t hesitate to call us! We’ll be happy to assist you in any way we can.

 

Contact:

Prime Locksmith

(778) 868-4628

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What Is a Polyester Carpet?

Are you in the market for a new carpet? One of the options you might be considering is a polyester carpet. While it has its pros and cons, polyester is a popular choice for carpeting because it’s affordable and durable. Here’s what you need to know about this versatile material.

Definition

Polyester carpeting is a synthetic fibers option that provides better stain resistance and durability than wool carpet or other natural fiber alternatives. Although it is a more eco-friendly option than nylon carpet, it might not be the best carpet selection for high-traffic areas in your home. Polyester fibers can eventually break down due to heavy traffic or retain imprints when covered by furniture or a heavy area rug for a period of time. Source: Masterclass

Types of polyester carpet

Besides traditional polyester carpet, you may encounter two variations.

The first is made from recycled materials like plastic bottles and tires. Manufacturers of this type claim the recycled materials make the yarn stronger than traditional polyester. It’s also an eco-friendly flooring option.

Another variation is triexta. This newer, polyester-derived material is more durable and resilient than traditional polyester. It’s marketed as SmartStrand. Source: FamilyHandyman

Pros and cons

Polyester carpets present a beautiful appearance when new. The fiber has a very luxurious “hand” (the feel of the fibers). Polyester also comes in some of the richest colors of any fiber. Because it is process-dyed, it has excellent fade resistance. Polyester’s relatively soft fibers give it a rich feel, with high “perceived” quality — that is, the quality you see in the showroom Source: CarpetBuyersHandbook

The downside is that polyester is the least resilient carpet fiber. It does not stand up as well to traffic and will not last as long. Polyester carpets are susceptible to wear, matting and traffic patterns. When matted, the carpet is difficult to restore.

That doesn’t mean you should reject polyester entirely. Polyester is a very economical fiber. It’s good for allergy sufferers. It sheds moisture and resists moths and mildew. It won’t shrink.

Polyester is fairly easy to clean. Like olefin, it resists almost all water-based stains but is susceptible to oil stains. Once oil gets into the fibers, it’s difficult to remove. Polyester fiber carpets can shed individual fibers. They may also be susceptible to pilling, in which loose fibers become entangled with each other and form little particles on the surface. Source: Home.HowStuffWorks

Need help figuring out which type of carpet is best suited for your home? Give us a call!

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