Foundation Repair Commercial

Frequently Asked Questions

1. QUESTION:
   Can/how you repair expansion gaps in the seam of a manufactured home?
   We are thinking about buying a manufactured home set on a foundation. When looking at the house for the first time the owner showed us these gaps (max 1/4in) in the interior walls and ceilings of the home. He says they completely seal up in the summer time and are unnoticeable. Do I need to be worried about this when buying the home, and is there some sort of permanant fix?

   • ANSWER:
     Not that I like manufacture homes myself but the owner is correct expansion is required for these homes and should not be wider than 1/4″ for natrual expansion and contraction Concrete, wood, cmu block all these houses or buildings have expansion controll. I do inspection for commercial buildings and if there not in its a problem. This allows for the material to breath. If you look in your lowes or home depot or any expose block building you will see a cap between wall expansion for this very reason. Concrete floor will be section out or saw cut for natrual expansion and contraction to prevent any structural damge. And the reason you dont see this in other homes is they are built onsite and are concealed at that point buy siding etc.

2. QUESTION:
   How do I repair cracks in a granite foundation?
   I have granite walls in my 110 year old commercial building. How and what do I use to seal the cracks? And yes water does get through the cracks into my basement.

   • ANSWER:
     to repair cracks in granite you will need a special chemical hoaning mixture to buy this you have to have a flooring business or have extensive knowledge of floors hire someone is your best bet bc granite is so hard to get right yet so easy to mess up!

3. QUESTION:
   Do I require planning permission to replace an existing building in bad repair?
   I own a commercial property in Scotland which has a run down storage shed at the rear made of timber and corrugated iron. I want to remove this and use the existing foundations to build a wooden bunkhouse. Can anyone advise me as to what planning permission I need? The planning office are being very unhelpful

   • ANSWER:
     Watson says “Sherlock, what is your opinion”?

     My brother, we are thousands of miles apart, but one thing is certain, when the building officials are unhelpful, plan on doing everything by the book.

     Draw up plans, where the storage unit (it is now a storage unit) will be in perspective to the property lines. This perspective should be on a plot plan drawn to 1/20th scale. A recorded survey copy modified to show the new storage shed on it works great here.

     Many cities, towns & counties require such prior to applying for a building permit when a storage shed exceeds 144 SF (12×12). This is even if it’s not on a permanent foundation.

     Once approval is granted, build as if it is a storage shed, then make the modifications toward conversion to your bunkhouse, seek the appropriate approval (which will be granted) and move on to the next project.

     You’re being tested here, so be a good citizen & neighbor, respect their authority, be humble & give them what they want. In turn, you’ll get what you want.

4. QUESTION:
   Post-tension or steel-rebar foundation for a home?
   We are considering building a new home in the Dallas,Texas area. The builder uses post-tension foundation versus the steel rebar foundation that we currently have in our Dallas home. I have read both pro and con articles for both sides of this argument. I would like to know what type of foundation is better for this area. Anyone that can shed some light on this issue would be greatly appreciated. I would rather find out on this side of building a home than have expensive foundation repairs after the home is built.

   • ANSWER:
     I have a friend who has a good bit of commercial rental property in and around Tyler, Tx. He says he has never had a cracked slab when you has used post tensioned slabs.

     He built a home for his daughter just down the street from me and that is what he used there.

5. QUESTION:
   does the pills mulit-vitainm work or is just commercial things?
   i mean the vitamaine and hair and skin pills r the good or they r useless and if it is good whats the best mark ?

   • ANSWER:
     Isotonic solutions bear the same chemical resemblance to blood and tears, allowing for superior delivery and complete absorption. Studies have shown that products with isotonic delivery have a 95 percent absorption rate while pills and tablets average a 45 percent absorption rate.

     A good quality multivitamin and mineral supplement creates a sound micronutrient foundation to accompany the human diet.The typical American diet is over-processed, destroying many of the vitamins and minerals necessary for promoting overall health. Vitamins and minerals are important to support a healthy immune system, promote the conversion of food into energy, support a healthy cardiovascular system, support strong bones, promote mental clarity, to maintain normal metabolic functioning, promote healthy growth and repair of tissues, help maintain normal blood pressure and help maintain water and electrolyte balance in the body. There is no substitute for a healthy, well-balanced diet; however, in today’s fast-paced lifestyles it is important to ensure the body is getting the fuel it needs.

     Isotonix® MultiTech™ is an isotonic-capable food supplement containing 100 percent or more of the daily value of essential vitamins and most minerals. There are wide varieties of multivitamin and mineral supplements on the market today. Only Isotonix MultiTech contains a unique blend of complimentary vitamins and minerals providing a sound micronutrient foundation in a superior nutrient delivery system. Isotonix MultiTech supplements dietary deficiencies, and helps maintain normal metabolic functioning.

6. QUESTION:
   Is the civil engineering outlook really declining?
   I have been reading from sites like bls.gov and it says that civil is expected to grow faster than the average yet I’ve been hearign that due to the economy it’s dying and is already saturated by an overabundance of civil engineers. I need some clarification with strong authority to be sure. Also, is the same happening to environmental engineering?

   • ANSWER:
     “Many people have looked for evidence of a current shortage of engineers and they haven’t been able to find any real signs of that evidence,” said Michael Teitelbaum, a demographer for the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation.

     William Wulf, president of the National Academy of Engineering, said starting salaries for engineers seem generally stable — neither rising dramatically, implying a shortage, nor falling, implying an oversupply. Wulf said the U.S. probably has enough engineers in sum, counting 70,000 to 75,000 graduates each year.

     A study released in December by Duke University’s School of Engineering reported that the nation “is currently producing a competitive number of engineers, computer science and information technology professionals.”

     Schools push engineering programs because they are money makers for the school since it takes more credit hours to get a degree in engineering than other majors.

     There is no mass retirement of baby boomers as predicted by the BLS which based most of their “grow faster than the average” prediction on and not on real numbers and statistics.

     The Government is not spending any money on infrastructure projects because they have to pay for the war in Iraq and Billions are going over there for rebuilding. The residential market has dried up and the Commercial market is stagnant and people are not wanting to invest in commercial projects since the residential market has gone belly up and interest rates are up and construction costs have sky rocketed.

     Companies love to say there is a shortage of engineers all the time because they are lobbying the government to allow more HB-1 visas or allow more high tech jobs to be outsource or done overseas so companies can pay people nothing.

     Only crappy companies that have bad work environments, bad benefits and pay their employees crap are the ones that are complaining they can’t find people to fill their positions. The sky is not falling and there is no shortage of engineers in the U.S.

     Because of the growing technology out there, Civil Engineers can do more than what they were doing a decade ago so there will be the same or less demand for Civil Engineers in the future then there was a decade ago. Civil Engineering is a stagnating field. This is why the can get away with paying Civil Engineers at lot less than almost every other engineer, it is supply and demand. There are a ton of civil engineers and the demand for them is not that great therefore the salaries are the lowest among all types of engineers.

     +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
     Also when the BLS states growth in Civil Engineering will be “Spurred by general population growth and the related need to improve the Nation’s infrastructure,” this assumes that Federal, State and Local governments will be spending more money on the Nation’s infrastructure but if you look at the statistics, the Federal, State and Local governments are spending less and less on infrastructure every year. There is a battle in Congress over Billion in needed highway funding that looks like it will get defeated. This funding is for critical repairs on U.S. highways but the government won’t spend money on infrastructure because it is not a “vote getter”. Yet the Congress has no problem dropping 0 million for one B2 Stealth bomber or 5 Billion for the F-35 at 2 million per plane.

7. QUESTION:
   I cant seem to get rid of the musty smell in my basement?
   I run my daycare in my basement and I use a dehumidifier which works some but also heats the rooms up. Does anyone have any suggestions?

   • ANSWER:
     You’re not going to to like the answer for this problem, because you use the basement for your daycare business. The musty odor is probably caused by mold and mildew in some parts of the basement. This mold and mildew is what’s likely causing the odor you smell. Unfortunately the only good cure is to remove everything possible form the basement like carpeting, furniture, curtains, toys and everything else that isn’t attached to the floor or walls. Choose a sunny day with low humidity and get everything outside into the sun to kill any mold/mildew spores. “Beat” the carpet to remove the dust and allergens from the carpeting. If it’s not too heavy, hang it on a clothes line for the best dust removal. You can use a proper commercial cleaning spray that contains bleach to wipe toys, books, and most other items you had in the basement. Once you’ve cleared out your basement, sweep or vacuum the floors and use a dry scrub to get rid of accumulated dust. You should then use a solution of 3/4 chlorine bleach to a gallon of water to mop up the floors and wash the walls. Let it sit for five minutes and give it a rinse with cold water. Let dry and help the drying process by mopping with a dry mop and having a fan circulate the air in your basement. Make sure that you scrub the walls, cornices and corners very well! You’re not just cleaning out the basement but killing the mildew that’s been growing in your basement. Check the drainage or your basement pipes for condensation. When too much condensation builds up in the pipes, it will drip down your basement floor or run down the pipes and stay there. With the condensation comes the musty basement smell. Prevent condensation from building up by wrapping pipe insulation around your basement pipes. The rainy season can also cause a buildup of moisture, so make sure that the ground slopes away from the foundations of your house and that the downspouts of the house extends six feet or more away from your house. Leaking pipes is also another problem that you can run into. Repair any leaks you find in the basement. You indicated that you already operate a dehumidifier in the basement. Make sure it’s the proper size and is working as it should. High humidity is what makes molds and mildew grow and spread rapidly. Providing more ventilation in your basement will also help. Installing cross-ventilation that connects your basement with the ventilation system in other parts of your house is another way to prevent humidity and stagnant air. A simpler solution could be creating windows or installing air vent fans in your basement. Condensation can build up on the basement walls. There are many causes for condensation on the walls, such as the structure of the house, the climate, the make of the walls, the drainage system and possibly even the activities of the children during the day. Any cracks in the walls that weep water should be repaired. The walls can be cleaned with “TSP” ( Trisodium – Phosphate ) or its equivalent, and then dried and sealed with a latex concrete sealer if desired. If there is any area up high, ( out of the reach of children ), you could scatter some charcoal briquettes to absorb moisture. This is a lot of work and can be accomplished within a reasonable time period with some help. More time is involved than expense, unless there are problems with the floor or walls. Hope this sheds some light on fixing this “odor” problem in your basement.

8. QUESTION:
   Uneven floors, structure issue or foundation issues?
   My floors are uneven in the kitchen to the hall. I want to get the floor level so I can put in some engineered wood flooring. I think the unevenness is related to a foundation problem. I know I can call one of those nation type foundation repair places (perajack…) but I wonder if I can get it done local cheaper? I need to know what they should be doing to do a quality job like the national comapnies that do it. How do I go about all this?

   • ANSWER:
     Contact at least 3 contractors to find out what is wrong, and to get estimates to repair it. It’s OK to ask 5-6, if you want to. Ask friends for the names of contractors they have used. If you know someone who works in a related field, ask if there is someone they know of who has a good reputation for doing quality work. Or go to a lumber yard used by commercial builders, and get a few names of people to call there. They often know who specializes in this type of work, who does a lot of it, and who pays their bills on time. That’s important, as you don’t want to get stuck working with someone who’s teetering on the edge of bankruptcy.

9. QUESTION:
   How do you get rid of springtails in houseplants?

   • ANSWER:
     Springtail control can be achieved by altering the environment in a way that will reduce the humidity in the area or the moisture content of the soil. In naturally-damp indoor areas this can be accomplished by increased ventilation or artificial air movement from fans. Water leaks in the kitchen, bathroom, or other areas should be repaired since springtails are likely to persist as long as a source of moisture is present. Mildew or mold associated with water leaks should be removed. Wood window sills or other areas with water damage may harbor populations of springtails.

     Outdoors, reduced watering and removal of accumulations of leaves or other decaying vegetable matter will help reduce numbers of springtails. If springtails are entering from outside, these efforts should be concentrated around the foundation of the house, doors, windows wells, and other potential entry areas.

     Springtails in potted plants can be controlled by removal of any algae, fungus, or moss on the soil surface and by reducing watering. Re-potting with clean soil is another option to eliminate insects in the soil. Pressurized aerosols containing permethrin, pyrethrins, or resmethrin can be applied to many types of house plants. Consult the product label for specific plants and directions.

     Indoor homeowner-type insecticides labeled for springtail control include certain formulations containing bifenthrin, carbaryl, or diazinon. Many of these are aerosols or ready-to-use formulations. Insecticides for use indoors by commercial applicators include certain formulations containing the above active ingredients, plus some containing chlorpyrifos, cyfluthrin, deltamethrin, or prallethrin.

     Outdoor homeowner-type insecticides labeled for springtail control include certain formulations of bifenthrin, carbaryl, chlorpyrifos, deltamethrin, and diazinon. Commercial outdoor insecticides include some formulations of the above, plus some containing fluvalinate, malathion, prallethrin, or pyrethrins.

     If large numbers of springtails are noted in garden soil, it is merely an indication that the soil has a good supply of organic matter. Control is rarely recommended or required. Outdoors, springtails can generally be considered beneficial insects since their contribution in breaking down organic matter in the soil far outweighs any damage they cause.

     Follow the link for more information.

     http://extension.usu.edu/insect/fs/springta.htm

10. QUESTION:
    I was thinking about training to become a foreclosure specialist. Has anyone did any training for this ?
    Any success? I would love to be in the real estate field and thought that would be the best way to go since I do not want to invest in properties at this time. Any other thoughts about getting into the real estate business?

    • ANSWER:
      There are a lot of foreclosures out there. What are you going to specialize in? Taking peoples homes and running them out the door. Lot’s of work for that. Or are you planning to work with these people to help them sell their homes or find a better loan?
      Here is the problem. Most of these folks put no money down on their homes. I remember hearing all the lenders say you can refinance it to a fixed loan when the variable rate goes up. The problem is the fixed loan has a higher payment. Even if the Adjustable rate goes up it is still lower then the fixed. These people do not qualify anymore for those loans or even the one they have.
      Many of these people own homes with negative equity. They bought the house for 500K and now it’s worth 439K they owe more then it is worth. If they can make the payments fine. But if they can’t then they have no way to refinance because they would have to come up with the difference and then a down payment of 10-20% down. That’s 61 thousand plus 44 to 86 thousand dollars and closing cost of about 8,000 dollars. That’s a minimum of 113 thousand dollars just to break even.
      It’s better to move out and rent. Let the home be foreclosed on. If they can make the payments then that is what they should do because eventually real estate will go up again. It might take 5 years. When it does they will see a gain.
      What most people don’t understand is you make your money when you buy. If you buy it right you won’t end up upside down. I purchased a house at 210,000 with buy downs to 198,000. The home never gained in value from 1990 till 1998. Then it began to rise and became worth over 750,000 dollars. While today it might be worth 650,000 I am still ahead. Actually my ex wife is still ahead. She had to re buy it at 389K.
      I purchased another home at 280K I sold it at 430K. Today it is worth 460,000. So no matter what, it is buying it at 30% below market that will get you a profit. As long as repairs are not to drastic such as foundation issues or toxic mold you should be fine.Keep repairs down to 3%.
      Now is a good time to buy a good deal. But you have to have good credit. You have to put some money into the investment and be prepared to rent it for a while before flipping it or leveraging it to buy more property. Another good investment is called a TIC. tenant in common. You are buying a share of a high rise in a down town area. This is commercial property but it will turn a steady profit because those areas don’t loose value the same way as residential properties do. A commercial high rise in West LA is not going down it is going up. You can sell your share anytime. Good luck.

      Here is another idea. If people own a house they can transfer title to a corporate entity. Then the corporation owns the home. It’s not likely they can get a corporate loan for the house unless they do it through the the SBA. Small Business Administration. Unfortunately that loan will follow you like a school loan. But since it is a corporation owned by you your credit will not be affected. It will go to the corporation and you can BK that.

11. QUESTION:
    What are some possible effects of climate change resulting from a warmer earth? What are the major harmful eff
    What are some possible effects of climate change resulting from a warmer earth? What are the major harmful effects of ozone depletion on each of the following:

    1. human health

    2. crop yields

    3. forest productivity

    4. materials such as plastics and paints

    5. plankton productivity

    • ANSWER:
      Harmful Effects
      i. The connection between Ozone Depletion and UVB Radiation – Reductions in ozone levels will lead to higher levels of UVB reaching the Earth’s surface. The sun’s output of UVB does not change; rather, less ozone means less protection, and hence more UVB reaches the Earth.

      ii. Effects on human health – UVB causes nonmelanoma skin cancer and plays a major role in malignant melanoma development. In addition, UVB has been linked to cataracts. All sunlight contains some UVB, even with normal ozone levels. It is always important to limit exposure to the sun. However, ozone depletion will increase the amount of UVB, which will then increase the risk of health effects. — Skin Cancer (melanoma and nonmelanoma) — Premature aging of the skin and other skin problems — Cataracts and other eye damage — Immune system suppression

      iii. Effects on plants – Physiological and developmental processes of plants are affected by UVB radiation, even by the amount of UVB in present-day sunlight. Despite mechanisms to reduce or repair these effects and a limited ability to adapt to increased levels of UVB, plant growth can be directly affected by UVB radiation. Indirect changes caused by UVB (such as changes in plant form, how nutrients are distributed within the plant, timing of developmental phases and secondary metabolism) may be equally, or sometimes more, important than damaging effects of UVB. These changes can have important implications for plant competitive balance, herbivory, plant diseases, and biogeochemical cycles.

      iv. Effects on Marine Ecosystem – Phytoplankton form the foundation of aquatic food webs. Many phytoplanktons are capable of active movements that enhance their productivity and their survival. Exposure to solar UVB radiation has been shown to affect both orientation mechanisms and motility in phytoplankton, resulting in reduced survival rates for these organisms.

      v. Effects on Biogeochemical Cycles – Increases in solar UV radiation could affect terrestrial and aquatic biogeochemical cycles altering both sources and sinks of greenhouse and chemically important trace gases e.g., carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), carbonyl sulfide (COS) and possibly other gases, including ozone.

      vi. Effects on Materials – Synthetic polymers, naturally occurring biopolymers, as well as some other materials of commercial interest are adversely affected by solar UV radiation. Today’s materials are somewhat protected from UVB by special additives. Therefore, any increase in solar UVB levels will therefore accelerate their breakdown, limiting how long they are useful outdoors.

      vii. Lack of food – The ultraviolet light will kill off small plankton and small microscopic organisms that live on the bottom of the food chain. Inevitably, the species above the plankton (in the food chain) will have a lack of food, a domino effect will occur. Eventually, humans, at the top of the food chain could suffer. Plants will also have a negative effect. The natural supply of nitrogen might be lower causing plants to grow slower and smaller. Again, less food will follow; for those who live off vegetation would not be able to survive (due to the lack of plants), and once again, the domino effect will occur

12. QUESTION:
    I have to paint my foundation and was wondering what kind of paint i should use and what temp. is best!?

    • ANSWER:
      Masonry includes cinder block, concrete, brick and mortar joints, cement block, and stucco. Surface preparation is important in any paint job, but it’s critical when painting masonry.

      Masonry is a rougher surface than wood and tends to retain stains and mildew. It is also very porous. In addition to normal stains from dirt or rust, masonry produces a salty deposit called efflorescence. The chalky nature of this deposit does not provide an adhesive surface for paint and must be removed.

      A thorough cleaning with trisodium phosphate (TSP) and a wire brush will eliminate most of the soil, grease or oil on masonry. To really speed things up, use a pressure washer. If the stain still does not go away, mildew may be the staining agent. Clean mildew with a commercial cleaner, or try a solution of one part household bleach to three parts water. Always rinse thoroughly as you go along to prevent the soiled water from re-drying.
      After you have washed the area, caulked the cracks, and repaired any basement windows in the foundation, you are ready to paint.

      When painting cinder block or other rough surfaces for the first time, apply a coat of latex block filler. The filler closes and seals the pores of the block and provides a smooth substrate for the finish coat. The time spent applying filler or sealer ensures that the surface does not absorb the paint. As a result, you save time and money.

      Rollers work well on masonry. Be sure to get one with a long nap (3/8″ or longer) for the smoothest coat. Use a brush to paint the area where siding meets block. You should pre-moisten the surface in hot, dry, or windy weather, since these conditions can cause the paint to dry too quickly, reducing its durability. Check the recommendations on the paint label.

      After the surface is clean and/or primed, almost any quality exterior paint can be used on masonry, depending on the structure’s age. For masonry less than one year old, use acrylic latex paint only. Surfaces older than one year can accept an oil-based paint. Temp should be above 50 deg

13. QUESTION:
    Renting Houses out–how many before i Can Be Full time Landlord?
    how many homes or units do I have to rent out do make enough profit where I can be a full-time landlord?
    I have seed money of 200,000
    landlord—how in the world did you pay off 30 houses to rent out?!

    • ANSWER:
      Your question would only be answered by you determining what it would take for you to earn enough per month to be able to live the kind of lifestyle you are currently living or aspire to live. Therefore no one on this forum would be able to answer that question.

      It appears as if you would want to educate yourself about the responsibility of being a landlord, and what it take to become a landlord.

      Having 0,000 to invest is not a requirement, it is intelligent in how you invest this 0,000 and be able to start your real estate investment on solid ground. You just don’t go out with a certain amount of money and instantly buy properties and become a landlord.

      Therefore you would, before you part with any of the 0,000 become educated on the purchase of rental properties. In order to become familiar with the purchase of rental properties you should purchase several books from your local bookstore about the subject. While you are there see if you might find a few books on being a landlord.

      You should consider joining the local National Apartment association. This is a group for landlords that would assist you with the local customs about renting units as for the amount of rent you would or could charge. They would also have many rental forms available for your use at a cost, I am sure a discount is available for members. The would also know about the eviction laws along with how to legally evict someone. There might be vanilla legal services available for you.

      Consider joining the local real estate investment group. There are lots of local information about investing you would learn from this group.

      You might would want to crawl before you start running toward the finish line. Therefore you might consider a 4 unit complex as your first rental adventure. You could live in one and rent out the other 3. This would be very educational to you and most beneficial as you grow your properties and hopefully your monthly rental income.

      A 1-4 unit is consider the same as a single family house in the eyes of FHA, therefore you might would want to apply for an FHA mortgage loan. The down payment could be as low as 3.5%. Since you would be residing in one unit this real estate purchase would be considered an owner occupied property, thus the interest rate would be at what a home owner would be. Therefore your monthly payment would be lower. In order to be successful you would want the lowest overhead as possible.

      Once you have resided in the unit for a total of 2 years you have then full filled the FHA requirement and may then move on to another 4 unit with the same set up. You now would have 7 units as rentals while living in the other.

      2 years later do the same thing once again, this would give you a total of 11 rental units and once again you would reside in one.

      After this you would make a decision as to if you would want to duplicate this again or simply purchase you a house and additional rentals to include moving up to what are called commercial rentals those that are above 4 units.

      You would have laid a solid foundation, worked your you know what off, know the business from having hands on by living in your units for at least 6 years.

      You would want to keep as much of the 0,000 in the bank as possible. This is called a reserve for any unforeseen repair situation.In becoming a landlord you will need this reserve.

      Most investors invest for leverage, tax advantages and future appreciation in the property. Therefore in most cases you would want to invest as little of your money as possible, then there are those make sense deals where the norm does not work, you would have to approach these type investments on a case by case basis, so stay alert and be knowledgeable about each investment.

      This is one method you might consider.

      I hope this has been of some benefit to you, good luck.

      “FIGHT ON”

14. QUESTION:
    can part of a commercial property be sold and retain the rest ???
    I have a commercial property that
    is one building, however it consists of two seperate retail spaces.

    My question is could I sell one of the stores and lease out the other one ? it only has one pin number, but it has two seperate gas meters and also seperate light meters.seperate front and back entrances, the only common usage is the water.

    • ANSWER:
      Yes, with the permission of your local zoning board you can convert your single building into two properties, similar to converting your two stores to condominiums, or cooperative retail space.

      Presently, the common usage is the water, but after conversion the common areas will be many such as the roof, foundation, exterior walls just to name a few. You will want both owners to pay regularly for upkeep and maintenance, and there will need to be an adequate reserve fund in case repairs are necessary.

      You must seek a commercial real estate attorney’s advice on this. He can help you decide on the type of ownership that is best for you. If you convert your building, a separate entity, a Condo or Coop Association, is created to define and safeguard the legal rights of both owners. Large office buildings “go coop or condo”, but usually the cost of converting is too expensive for converting one building into only 2 stores.

      Your attorney may suggest less expensive alternatives. He will go over the benefits you receive and problems you take on by splitting the ownership. And help you answer the question of what happens when you decide to sell the property to which you are keeping title.

      Perhaps a long term lease is a better idea and makes more financial sense. Another idea is to take on a partner in ownership who will have certain financial responsibilities in exchange for a share of the ownership. You can also sell the entire property, and lease back the one store you want with the right to sublet it.

15. QUESTION:
    what are some economic activities of virginia?
    what are some economic activities that they have in virginia.
    what are some stuff they grow, manufacter, or any service they mainly do in virginia. it is for a project im doin

    • ANSWER:
      The main activities of Virginia are:
      Agriculture: Cattle, poultry, dairy products, tobacco, hogs, soybeans.
      Industry: Transportation equipment, textiles, food processing, printing, electric equipment, chemicals.

      Notes: Virginia’s gross state product was 6.6 billion. The per capita personal income was ,477 in 2004.
      In 2006 and 2007, Forbes Magazine voted Virginia as having the [ best climate for business] in the United States citing economic growth, business costs/incentives and quality of life. CNBC ranked Virginia as the top state for business in 2007 as well.
      Richmond is one of 12 cities in the country having a Federal Reserve bank. It, along with the New York and San Francisco Federal Reserve banks are the only ones that cover a non-state (Washington, D.C.).
      There are seven Fortune 500 companies headquartered in Northern Virginia, and nine in the Richmond area (most of which are within the city itself.) Only five metro areas in the country have more Fortune 500 companies than the Richmond area. Virginia, arguably the wealthiest southern state before the Civil War, recovered from the Civil War and the Great Depression much faster than the rest of the South. Today, Virginia is still one of the wealthiest states in the South.
      The state’s biotechnology industry is not centralized, but growing, highlighted by the building of the Virginia BioTechnology Research Park biotech incubator in Richmond and the opening of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Janelia Farm in Northern Virginia.

      Virginia’s nanotechnology industry, centered in Hampton Roads and Northern Virginia, accounted for billion in manufactured goods in 2006. Researchers in Hampton Roads, many of whom hold patents in the field, believe the region has an advantage in the commercialization of nanotechnology due to the amount of research, much of it spearheaded by NASA’s Langley Research Center
      Virginians provide a vast array of services and manufactured goods to customers throughout the world. Our manufacturing base continues to be strong, producing everything from steel beams, wood flooring and trucks to semiconductors, robots and rocket engines. As the birthplace of the Internet and one of the leading centers of software development, Virginia’s high-technology economy continues to expand. And as one of four U.S. states currently licensed and capable of launching communications satellites and other commercial payloads into space, Virginia has all the right assets to continue our economic leadership throughout the 21st century.

      Fast Fact

      AeA, the nation’s largest trade association representing all segments of the high-tech industry, has ranked Virginia as the national leader for its concentration of high-tech workers according to their recent report, Cyberstates 2007: A Complete State-by-State Overview of the High-Technology Industry.

      More than 11,500 high-tech companies operate in Virginia.
      Nearly 60 firms with annual revenue over 0 million are headquartered in Virginia.
      Virginia is headquarters to 29 Fortune 1000 firms.
      More than 770 foreign-affiliated firms are located in the Commonwealth.
      Virginia ranks third among the 50 states as a recipient of federal R&D funds.
      Virginia ranks 10th in terms of venture capital deals and 11th for total venture dollars invested.
      Virginia ranks among the top 10 states best adapting to recent changes in the U.S. economy, according to “The 2007 State New Economy Index” published by the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation and the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation.
      Virginia exported .1 billion of merchandise in 2006.
      Among top 25 industries invirginia are Cigarettes, Ship building and repair, commercial printing, paper and paper boards, automobile parts, plastic products, plumbing products, pharmaceuticals and medicine, Organic fibres, automobiles and light trucks, brewaries, pachaging material, semi conductor devices, navigation instruments, tires, saw mills, wooden furnitures/ doors/ windows, poer bioler and heat exchanger, heavy duty trucks, ready-mix concrete.
      Virginia has or plans industrial clusters in the following areas:
      Aerospace
      Automotive
      Biosciences
      Distribution
      Electronics
      Financial Services
      Food Processing
      Motorsports
      Plastics

16. QUESTION:
    What are major harmful effects of ozone depletion on human health, crop yeilds, forest productivity, materials
    such as plastics and paints, and plankton productivity?

    • ANSWER:
      various harmful effects are as follows

      Effects on Human Health

      Laboratory and epidemiological studies demonstrate that UVB causes nonmelanoma skin cancer and plays a major role in malignant melanoma development. In addition, UVB has been linked to cataracts. All sunlight contains some UVB, even with normal ozone levels. It is always important to limit exposure to the sun. However, ozone depletion will increase the amount of UVB and the risk of health effects.

      Effects on Plants

      Physiological and developmental processes of plants are affected by UVB radiation, even by the amount of UVB in present-day sunlight. Despite mechanisms to reduce or repair these effects and a limited ability to adapt to increased levels of UVB, plant growth can be directly affected by UVB radiation.

      Indirect changes caused by UVB (such as changes in plant form, how nutrients are distributed within the plant, timing of developmental phases and secondary metabolism) may be equally, or sometimes more, important than damaging effects of UVB. These changes can have important implications for plant competitive balance, herbivory, plant diseases, and biogeochemical cycles.

      Effects on Marine Ecosystems

      Phytoplankton form the foundation of aquatic food webs. Phytoplankton productivity is limited to the euphotic zone, the upper layer of the water column in which there is sufficient sunlight to support net productivity. The position of the organisms in the euphotic zone is influenced by the action of wind and waves. In addition, many phytoplankton are capable of active movements that enhance their productivity and, therefore, their survival. Exposure to solar UVB radiation has been shown to affect both orientation mechanisms and motility in phytoplankton, resulting in reduced survival rates for these organisms. Scientists have demonstrated a direct reduction in phytoplankton production due to ozone depletion-related increases in UVB. One study has indicated a 6-12% reduction in the marginal ice zone.

      Solar UVB radiation has been found to cause damage to early developmental stages of fish, shrimp, crab, amphibians and other animals. The most severe effects are decreased reproductive capacity and impaired larval development. Even at current levels, solar UVB radiation is a limiting factor, and small increases in UVB exposure could result in significant reduction in the size of the population of animals that eat these smaller creatures.

      Effects on Biogeochemical Cycles

      Increases in solar UV radiation could affect terrestrial and aquatic biogeochemical cycles, thus altering both sources and sinks of greenhouse and chemically-important trace gases e.g., carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), carbonyl sulfide (COS) and possibly other gases, including ozone. These potential changes would contribute to biosphere-atmosphere feedbacks that attenuate or reinforce the atmospheric buildup of these gases.

      Effects on Materials

      Synthetic polymers, naturally occurring biopolymers, as well as some other materials of commercial interest are adversely affected by solar UV radiation. Today’s materials are somewhat protected from UVB by special additives. Therefore, any increase in solar UVB levels will therefore accelerate their breakdown, limiting the length of time for which they are useful outdoors.

17. QUESTION:
    how does one get into the iron working trade?

    so can someone answer my question?

    • ANSWER:
      Trade apprenticeship programs provide the unique opportunity to learn a trade while earning a decent wage. These programs also benefit people who cannot take time off to attend school due to financial obligations. Union trade apprenticeship programs combine classroom training with on-the-job experience. Graduates of such programs have received top-notch training in their respective trades or industries. For those who cannot attend school or who prefer to learn in environments other than the classroom, trade apprenticeship programs may be the way to a new career.

      Ironworkers
      Ironworkers are skilled construction workers who set up the foundation for large-scale construction projects such as skyscrapers, bridges and highways. Ironworkers develop projects to the exact specifications of federal, state and local building codes. The craft requires that you have no fear of heights and are able to work in a team. In addition, the work is physically demanding and requires agility and good balance. Only those in above-average physical shape need apply.

      Ironworker apprentices must be at least 18 years, have a high school diploma or equivalency and be alcohol- and drug-free. Apprenticeships typically last three or four years.

      Growth in the field is projected at 12 percent in the years between 2008 and 2018 by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The BLS also pegs average hourly wages at .68, as of May 2008.

      International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental, and Reinforcing Iron Workers

      1750 New York Avenue NW Suite 400

      Washington, DC 20006

      202-383-4800

      ironworkers.org

      Sheet Metal Worker
      Sheet metal workers craft and manipulate various kinds of sheet metal. This can be a manufacturing profession or a construction profession, depending on the job. The Sheet Metal Workers International Association operates more than 170 Joint Apprenticeship Training Committees throughout the United States and Canada. The union estimates that its members generally earn about twice what the average construction worker earns. In fact, a union apprenticeship in sheet metal work is an excellent way to get into management, with more than 80 percent of all contractors and shop owners having started their careers as SMWIA apprentices. Apprenticeships generally require between four and five years to complete.

      The field of sheet metal workers is expected to grow in the years between 2008 and 2018 by 6 percent, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The BLS estimates average hourly wages for sheet metal workers at .37, as of May 2008.

      Sheet Metal Worker International Association

      1750 New York Ave., NW, 6th floor

      Washington, DC 20006

      202-783-5880

      smwia.org

      Electrician
      The electrician’s union, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), offers a number of trade apprenticeships. Inside electricians work on the power systems within a single commercial or industrial structure. Outside electricians maintain the nation’s electrical distribution and transmission grid. Residential electricians perform many of the same functions as inside electricians. Installer technicians work with low-voltage systems such as communications and security.

      IBEW apprentices must be at least 18 years of age with a high school diploma or equivalency and have had at least one year of algebra. Apprentices must also be able to pass a qualifying exam and a drug screening. Apprenticeship lengths vary depending on the trade selected.

      The field is expected to grow by 12 percent in the years between 2008 and 2018, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The BLS also projects average hourly wages at .32, as of May 2008.

      International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers

      900 7th St., NW

      Washington, DC 20001-4089

      202-833-7000‎

      ibew.org

      HVAC Repair Schoolswww.TradeSchooling.com

      Read more: Trade Apprenticeship Programs | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/list_6711200_trade-apprenticeship-programs.html#ixzz1Zqtp0xwv

18. QUESTION:
    definitions for the following terms that relate to industrialization?
    1. commercial expansion
    2. subsistence farming
    3. mass production
    4. cottage industry
    5. laissez-faire economics
    6. division of labor
    7. enclosure movement
    8. socialism
    9. labor union
    10. factory system
    11. utilitarianism
    12. consumerism
    13. social reform
    14. interchangeable parts

    • ANSWER:
      Too many questions for an attempt to earn 2 0r 12 points. Anyways, I give definitions and some cases a little more for better understanding..
      1. commercial expansion
      is the expansion of an economic activity (like agriculture or home-knit sweaters) so that extra output over the subsistence requirement can be sold in the market with a view to earn income in the form of profit.
      2. subsistence farming
      is Farming that provides enough food for the farmer and his family but not enough for sale. By comparison, commercial farming is farming that provides products for sale.
      Form of farming in which nearly all the crops or livestock raised are used to maintain the farmer and his family, leaving little surplus for sale or trade. Preindustrial agricultural peoples throughout the world practiced subsistence farming. As urban centers grew, agricultural production became more specialized and commercial farming developed, with farmers producing a sizable surplus of certain crops, which they traded for manufactured goods or sold for cash. Subsistence farming persists today in sub-Saharan Africa and other developing areas.
      3. mass production
      Manufacturing or processing of uniform products in large quantities using interchangeable parts and machinery. Mass production is either a wholly automated process or a series of short, repetitive procedures i.e., manufacture of goods in large quantities by machinery and by use of techniques such as the assembly line and division of labor.
      Application of the principles of specialization, division of labour, and standardization of parts to the manufacturing of goods on a large scale. Modern mass-production methods have led to such improvements in the cost, quality, quantity, and variety of goods available that the largest global population in history is now sustained at the highest general standard of living ever. The requirements for mass production of a particular product include the existence of a market large enough to justify a large investment; a product design that can use standardized parts (see interchangeable parts) and processes; a physical layout that minimizes materials handling; division of labour into simple, short, repetitive steps (see time-and-motion study); continuous flow of work; and tools designed specifically for the tasks to be performed. See also assembly line.
      4. cottage industry
      A usually small-scale industry carried on at home by family members using their own equipment.
      A small, loosely organized, yet flourishing complex of activity or industry: “The study of Gandhi has become a virtual cottage industry in the last 30 years, producing schools, museums, foundations and more than 400 biographies”
      “Cottage industries” is a term that was used prevalently during the eighteenth and nineteenth and centuries to describe the home-based system of manufacturing. This term is also used today to refer to goods or services that are produced at home. Sewing, craft production, sales and marketing, typing, bookkeeping, and auto repair are just a fewexamples of home-based employment.
      5. laissez-faire economics
      An economic doctrine that opposes governmental regulation of or interference in commerce beyond the minimum necessary for a free-enterprise system to operate according to its own economic laws.
      Noninterference in the affairs of others.
      [French : laissez, second person pl. imperative of laisser, to let, allow + faire, to do.]
      Laissez-faire (IPA: [lɛse fɛr]) is a French phrase meaning “let do” or “hands off”. From the French diction first used by the 18th century physiocrats as an injunction against government interference with trade, it became used as a synonym for strict free market economics during the early and mid-19th century. It is generally understood to be a doctrine that maintains that private initiative and production are best allowed to roam free, opposing economic interventionism and taxation by the state beyond that which is perceived to be necessary to maintain peace, security, and property rights.[1] In this view, it is not the job of the state to intervene in the economy in an attempt to reduce inequality, poverty or protect worker’s rights (except to the extent that they are covered under property rights). Free-market anarchists take the idea to its full length by opposing all taxation. Laissez-faire also embodies free trade, namely that a state should not use protectionist measures, such as tariffs, in order to curtail trade through national frontiers. In the early stages of European and American economic theory, laissez-faire economic policy was contrasted with mercantilist economic policy, which had been the dominant system of the United Kingdom, Spain, France and other European countries, during their rise to power.The term laissez-faire is often used interchangeably with the term “free market.” Some use the term laissez-faire to refer to “let do, let pass” attitude for matters outside of economics. Laissez-faire is associated with classical liberalism, libertarianism, and Objectivism.[citation needed] It was originally introduced in the English-language world in 1774, by George Whatley, in the book Principles of Trade, which was co-authored with Benjamin Franklin. Classical economists, such as Thomas Malthus, Adam Smith and David Ricardo did not use the term—Bentham did, but only with the advent of the Anti-Corn Law League did the term receive much of its (English) meaning.
      The laissez-faire means that the neoclassical school of economic thought holds a pure or economically liberal market view: that the free market is best left to its own devices, and that it will dispense with inefficiencies in a more deliberate and quick manner than any legislating body could. The basic idea is that less government interference in private economic decisions such as pricing, production, consumption, and distribution of goods and services makes for a better (more efficient) economy. Economist Adam Smith in his book ‘Wealth of Nations’ argued that the invisible hand of the market would guide people to act in the public interest by following their own self-interest, since the only way to make money would be through voluntary exchange, and thus the only way to get the people’s money was to give the people what they want. Smith pointed out that one does not get one’s dinner by appealing to the brother-love of the butcher, the farmer or the baker. Rather one appeals to their self interest, and pays them for their labour.
      6. division of labor
      is Separation of the work force into different categories of labor; dividing the work required to produce a product into a number of different tasks that are performed by different workers. ie, Dividing a job into many specialized parts, with a single worker or a few workers assigned to each part. Division of labor is important to mass production.
      Division of labour is the specialisation of cooperative labour in specific, circumscribed tasks and roles, intended to increase efficiency of output. Historically the growth of a more and more complex division of labour is closely associated with the growth of trade, the rise of capitalism, and of the complexity of industrialisation processes. Later, the division of labour reached the level of a scientifically-based management practice with the time and motion studies associated with Taylorism. For specialisation to be productive, it requires: Enough demand on accounted mass production of A standard product.
      7. enclosure movement
      Division or consolidation of communal lands in Western Europe into the carefully delineated and individually owned farm plots of modern times. Before enclosure, farmland was under the control of individual cultivators only during the growing season; after harvest and before the next growing season, the land was used by the community for the grazing of livestock and other purposes. In England the movement for enclosure began in the 12th century and proceeded rapidly from 1450 to 1640; the process was virtually complete by the end of the 19th century. In the rest of Europe, enclosure made little progress until the 19th century. Common rights over arable land have now been largely eliminated.
      8. socialism
      Any of various theories or systems of social organization in which the means of producing and distributing goods is owned collectively or by a centralized government that often plans and controls the economy. or,
      The stage in Marxist-Leninist theory intermediate between capitalism and communism, in which collective ownership of the economy under the dictatorship of the proletariat has not yet been successfully achieved.
      9. labor union
      is An organization of wage earners formed for the purpose of serving the members’ interests with respect to wages and working conditions. or, An organization of workers formed to promote collective bargaining with employers over wages, hours, fringe benefits, job security, and working conditions.
      labor union, association of workers for the purpose of improving their economic status and working conditions through collective bargaining with employers. Historically there have been two chief types of unions: the horizontal, or craft, union, in which all the members are skilled in a certain craft (e.g., the International Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America); and the vertical, or industrial, union, composed of workers in the same industry or industries regardless of their particular skills (e.g., the United Automobile, Aerospace, and Agricultural Implement Workers of America). A company union is an employer-controlled union having no affiliation with other labor organizations.
      10. factory system
      is A concentration of the processes of manufacturing—fixed capital, raw material, and labour—under one roof, in order to provide the mass production of a standardized product or products. The factory system superseded cottage industry because it made possible economies of scale, a standardized product, and the deskilling of labour, which increased efficiency and increased the power of the employer. Mass production also meant that specialized machines could be used to their maximum effect.
      The Factory system was a method of manufacturing first adopted in England at the beginning of the Industrial Revolution and later spreading abroad. Fundamentally, each worker created a separate part of the total assembly of a product, thus increasing the efficiency of factories. Workers, paid by wage, and machines were brought together in a central factory. All the processes of production would be carried out under one roof, and would continue as long as it was practical. Inconclusively, Richard Arkwright is the person credited with being the brains behind the growth of factories. After he patented his spinning frame in 1769, he created the first true factory at Cromford, near Derby, England. The factory system was a new way of organizing labor made necessary by the development of machines which were too large to house in a worker’s cottage. Working hours were as long as they had been for the farmer, that is, from dawn to dusk, six days per week. The factory system first spread outside of England when Samuel Slater brought the secret of the water frame to the United States.
      11. utilitarianism
      The belief that the value of a thing or an action is determined by its utility. or,
      The ethical theory proposed by Jeremy Bentham and James Mill that all action should be directed toward achieving the greatest happiness for the greatest number of people. or,
      The quality of being utilitarian: housing of bleak utilitarianism.
      Utilitarianism is the ethical doctrine that the moral worth of an action is determined solely by its contribution to overall utility. It is thus a form of consequentialism, meaning that the moral worth of an action is determined by its outcome. Utility — the good to be maximized — has been defined by various thinkers as happiness or pleasure (versus suffering or pain), though preference utilitarians like Peter Singer define it as the satisfaction of preferences. Utilitarians tend to consider the interests of any entity capable of experiencing pleasure or pain.
      The most famous definition of utilitarianism equates it with the belief that, ‘That action is best which procures the greatest happiness of the greatest number’. Although generally associated with Bentham, who quoted it with approval, the statement was first made by Francis Hutcheson in his Inquiry into the Original of our Ideas of Beauty and Virtue (1725). The doctrine that actions should be judged on their capacity to produce happiness is an ancient one, recognizable as the classical Greek eudaemonism. However, it was only in the secular and commercial milieu of eighteenth-century Britain that it became an important and respectable philosophy, if not yet a dominant one.
      12. consumerism
      is The movement seeking to protect and inform consumers by requiring such practices as honest packaging and advertising, product guarantees, and improved safety standards. or,
      The theory that a progressively greater consumption of goods is economically beneficial. or
      Attachment to materialistic values or possessions: deplored the rampant consumerism of contemporary society.
      Consumerism is a term used to describe the effects of equating personal happiness with purchasing material possessions and consumption. It is often associated with criticisms of consumption starting with Karl Marx and Thorstein Veblen.In economics, consumerism can also refer to economic policies that place an emphasis on consumption, and, in an abstract sense, the belief that the free choice of consumers should dictate the economic structure of a society.
      Often, consumerism also means Public concern over the rights of consumers, the quality of consumer goods, and the honesty of advertising. The ideology came into full focus in the 1960s after President John F. Kennedy introduced the Consumer Bill of Rights, which stated that the consuming public has a right to be safe, to be informed, to choose, and to be heard. The primary concern of this force is to fulfill and protect the rights of consumers articulated by President Kennedy more than three decades ago.
      13. social reform
      is a movement intended to bring about social and humanitarian reforms. Social reform is a reform that aims to make gradual change, or change in certain aspects of society rather than rapid or fundamental changes. Reformists’ ideas are often grounded in liberalism, although they may be rooted in utopian, socialist or religious concepts. Some rely on personal transformation; others rely on small collectives, such as Mahatma Gandhi’s spinning wheel and the self sustaining village economy, as a mode of social change. A reform movement is distinguished from more radical social movements such as revolutionary movements. Reactionary movements, which can arise against any of these, attempt to put things back the way they were before whatever successes of the new movement(s), or prevent any such successes in the first place.
      14. interchangeable parts
      are… Identical components that can substitute one for another, particularly important in manufacturing. Mass production, which transformed the organization of work, came about by the development of the machine-tool industry by a series of 19th-century innovators. With precision equipment, large numbers of identical parts could be produced at low cost and with a small workforce.
      Interchangeable parts are components of any device designed to specifications which insure that they will fit within any device of the same type. This streamlines the manufacturing process, since all pieces are guaranteed to fit with all others, and it similarly creates the opportunity for replacement parts.
      Prior to the 18th century, devices such as guns were made one at a time by gunsmiths, and each gun was unique. If one single component of a weapon needed a replacement, the entire weapon either had to be sent back to an expert gunsmith to make custom repairs or discarded and replaced by another weapon. Around 1778, Honoré Blanc began producing some of the first firearms with interchangeable parts. Blanc demonstrated in front of a committee of scientists that his muskets could be assembled from a pile of parts selected at random. Other inventors to implement the principle included Henry Maudslay, John Hall, and Simeon North.
      In the U.S., Eli Whitney saw the potential benefit of developing “interchangeable parts” for the firearms of the United States military, and thus, around 1798, he built ten guns, all containing the same exact parts and mechanisms, and disassembled them before the United States Congress. He placed the parts in a large mixed pile and, with help, reassembled all of the weapons right in front of Congress, much like Blanc had done some years before.
      The US Congress was immensely impressed and ordered a standard for all United States equipment. With interchangeable parts, the problems that had plagued the era of unique weapons and equipment passed, and if one mechanism in a weapon failed, a new piece could be ordered and the weapon would not have to be discarded.
      The principle of interchangeable parts quickly made mass production in all sorts of industries relatively easy. It was based on the use of templates, applied by semi-skilled labor using machine tools instead of the traditional hand tools. With the introduction of the assembly line at the beginning of the 20th century, interchangeable parts became ubiquitous elements of manufacturing.

19. QUESTION:
    i want to switch job fm sales to Operations.for it,i ve to go through a interview process by HR. how to handle
    if HR puts a question on why i want to switch from sales to operations,what answer,i can give to him to satisfy. any ideas,you want to suggest. but soon,my interview is pretty soon.thanks,

    • ANSWER:
      We’re changing the scientific protocols and procedures to make indoor air not just pleasant, but to safely remove from our indoor environment many dangerous and harmful substances.
      You already know that Fresh Air by EcoQuest is the only air purification system endorsed by and approved by The Space Foundation as is used in NASA space vehicles and space stations. Here’s some things you may not know:
       Our units were placed in the Pentagon after the horrors of 9/11 prevented humans from entering and working because of burnt jet fuel, burnt building materials, and the tragedy of burnt human bodies. After sending 2 18-wheelers of our units to place in offices on Friday, employees and service members returned safely to work on Monday.
       Highly technical, delicate equipment in Iraq was being damaged by the baby-powder fine dust that could not be kept out of work areas at a military facility there. The cramped living and working quarters of the military members contributed to odors, transmission of communicable illnesses, breathing challenges. After installation of 10 Fresh Air units, the entire facility as well as the well-being of the personnel changed dramatically for the good.
       Lamar University Museum contained priceless, irreplaceable artifacts when Hurricane Rita struck. Every professional estimator was adamant that most of the artifacts were mold infested and a total loss. The costs for repair and restoration of remaining artifacts and displays was astronomical. Our top commercial/industrial experts used our equipment and not one artifact or display was lost, the entire building was safely remediated at a fraction of the cost bid by other companies using older technologies.
       Schools, restaurants, courthouses, bars, hospitals, and residential customers (millions of them) rate our technology from 93 to 98% satisfactory… and no wonder!
       Particulates drop 250 times faster than with gravity alone. 99% to 99.9999% kill of staph, resistant staph, strep, type 3 virus (this is Avian flu virus family) molds; mildew; stachybottrys mold; e-coli; salmonella; etc., etc… all proven in independent laboratory tests for surface and airborne infections. Removal and deodorizing of tobacco smoke; 100% removal of many VOCs.
      For your use, this means your home smells clean and fresh…. Those 10,000 bacteria on your keyboard are reduced 99.9999% so only 1 remains. Those airborne and exposed molds are killed and the gasses emitted by them swept from the air. Pet dander swept out of the air, dust and dustmites swept away, pollens swept away. You breathe more freely when the air is clean. But you can rest more easily knowing you have taken the best steps you can to ensure a healthier indoor environment for you and your family and guests!

      Thank you,
      www.ecoquestintl.com/farny product and opportunity

20. QUESTION:
    I have a buckled 12″ foundation wall 4′ high, I think 9″ wide. Wall moved 4″ maybe more. What cause this and?
    what are repair options?

    • ANSWER:
      I recently had to deal with a similar situation on a commercial building. The double brick wall was about 12′ high about 1/2 buried in the earth (on the outside) and was buckled just above the frost line probably due to water and freezing that put pressure on a wall that was not designed for it. It was also about 4″ out. Ours was a non-bearing foundation wall to the extent that the roof was on perpendicular walls.

      Removing and rebuilding the wall was not an option. The wall was on the property line and there was some construction on the other side including the only acess to other property.

      If you are not experienced with this work you should not attempt it without an engineer’s assistance. If removing the wall was an option, you would support the wall above at appropriate points and then dig down and remove and replace the wall. I have done this where I had to build a foundation under a building that did not have one. You may not have to go down to the foundation or you may have to rebuild or replace the foundation.

      In this case we carefully dug for a 24″ footing inside and built a new 8″ block wall (about 6″ inside the outer wall.) That new wall was reinforced with durawall and re bar and poured solid. Then the gap between the walls was poured and reinforced with re bar.

      Our original brick wall makes very poor foundation walls especially over this height. It may have been an mistaken afterthought to backfill 1/2 the wall. The new 10″ to 14″ of reinforced masonry inside should easily take the frost pressure but it was a fairly labor intensive operation.

21. QUESTION:
    What happend in the Quarting act and townshed act?

    • ANSWER:
      The Quartering Act (one of the Coercion Acts) was passed by the British Parliament in June, 1774 to permit effective action by the British troops sent to Boston after the Tea Party. In 1768, the Boston Whigs, taking advantage of the absence of troop barracks in Boston, attempted to quarter (house) the troops in Castle William rather than in the town itself. To forestall a similar effort, the Quartering Act provided that where no barracks were available, the authorities must provide quarters for them on the spot; if they failed to do so, the governor might compel the use of inns or uninhabited buildings. The Boston patriots, however, forced the British troops to camp on the Boston Common until Nov. 1774, by refusing to allow workmen to repair the distilleries and empty buildings Gen. Gage had procured for quarters.
      The Quartering Act was another nail in the coffin of British rule, was specifically mentioned in the greviances in the Declaration of Independence and eventually resulted in the inclusion of an anti-quartering measure in the U.S. Constitution.

      The Townshend Acts take their name from Charles Townshend, Chacellor of the Exchequer and head of the British government at the time they were enacted. There were four acts and all were passed between June 15 and July 2 1768.

      The first suspended the New York legislature until it complied with the Quartering Act of 1765.

      The second act provided for an American revenue and the third set up a special board in Boston to collect revenue.
      The revenue acts levied import duties on several articles including paint, paper, glass and tea. The monies collected would go toward paying collection expenses and thereafter for civil establishments like judges, governors and other crown employees instead of the usual method of their salaries being paid by local asemblies. This struck at the very foundation of American political liberty and was denounced as politcal enslavement.

      The fourth act repealed the inland duties on tea in England and permitted it to be exported to the colonies free of all British taxes. This served to promote British commercial interests by not having tea rexported to Europe and favored the passage of tea in British ships.

      All these acts, but especially the Revenue measures were a significant catalyst to American resistance to political acts by Parliament and the crown that led to the Revolution.

22. QUESTION:
    What can the little guy do?
    You can tell who has the power in a civilization buy looking for the most elaborate buildings. The government in Roman times, many examples still exist ie the coloseum. The Roman Catholic Church in the middle ages ie many gothic churches speread throughout europe. In our present day it is the corporations, as our public buildings crumble corporations like the oil industry and pharmacutical companies record record profits. these corporations are owned by shareholders and are therefore profit driven.No profits = angry shareholders. Unfortunately this system is money driven and morals are generally not considered. How do we engineer a paradigm shift?

    • ANSWER:
      Vartan Gregorian, an academician of many titles, two of which were a former president of Brown University and a president of the Carnegie Corporation of New York, a granting foundation, once said while being interviewed by the journalist Bill Moyers that “there ‘are’ no little people.”

      Correct and absolute!

      The shift that you speak of is happening even while we speak, but sluggard is it indeed, and I share your views and feelings 100%. Snippets of change ‘are’ occuring, though; sometimes are they short upheavals but in comparatively small regions geographically or commercial sectors of political economy. For now they may appear to occur as ad hoc events, apparently unconnected to us such that many of our common perceptions overlook the deeper, greater undertows. But as one looks more closely, however, one may connect events and disclose definite patterns and discover a portent of things to come that bodes poorly for the “big guy,” but by which we, the “little guys” are affected first.

      The spikes in occurrences among the wealthy, for example, are measures of an increasing indication of fear, not readily evident to the lay persons or relative to any given sector of commerce or industry that lay people depend on, but rather fear in the power brokers themselves, whose fear signals should at once prompt each of us to wink out our mental tape measures and begin making an accounting. Our indenture to the norms, to leisure — comparative gratuities to what the poor third-world people could enjoy, however, causes many to fixate upon their immediate circumstances before first zooming out wide and seeing the great charade wefting and warping beneath the economies upheld by the one-percentile, greed-smitten jack asses in power.

      The moment a mass of people ‘feel’ and perceive things to be amiss, as quickly do certain forces shift into action for which a vortex immediately takes hold that triggers events. Things raze, they grow volatile as a staging for the new. We see one pattern in that of the housing sector of the United States and thereto, the building sector: an entire mult-billion-dollar corporation has fallen at Wall Street and not few in these same sectors are to be brought before the courts to answer for their deceit. We observe the spike in fuel prices and thus the steep downward curve in the shipment and logistical industry and thereto again as result, the soaring consumer price indices. Among the powerful, this expresses a peacock pride yet is truly but great theater before the fall.

      But the pains at first undergoing among the few, then the many do precede the inevitable sought-for aim. Rest assured, martyrs we do not need today — such is passe, and rather quite immature, sophomoric. Such was tried and succeeded-at in the 1960’s and 70’s and to good avail. But no longer is this viable. The less we do en masse, the less harm we confront in our respective lives and the less we have to do to repair great damage, but rather is it the inertia from many events that prompts adjustment by its own volition, which is to say, given the inertia, the bounty and groan of imbalances will cause inevitable falls of great institutes in all cases — sooner or later — increasingly sooner than later, however. Simply watch, observe, act with tactical clarity, bide your patience above all — but do do where propriety accords your doing. For feeling and perceiving can be thought active things as well: they are seeds well-planted.

      The more we work upon ourselves each, the more we will unravel the congestions that en masse have added up to the critical mass that prompt us to ask and then wish to act at the outset of feeling the wrong in these others. This does not speak to passivity but rather impassivity, which is to say, herewith we put focus energy on what we can do most and carry most constructively, which takes us to ourselves first and wherein we are constrained to work with what we rate — that which exists within our respective compasses.

      This whole dynamism is a slow-going thing for the most part; but there will be nodes along the lines of actions whereupon certain radical occurrences commence, which are the open windows, the opportunities to slip in and effect change — great change. Again, the paradigm shift is happening even while we speak — with the current presidential campaigning occurring in the United States as testament to this.

      Yet this must occur deliberatively if verily, else things would implode and wreak havoc upon vast areas of social underpinnings. I am as appalled as any and like to think I am as radical as any. But — things take time. But peer in closely and one will see that things are happening quicker than ever. The old assumptions are falling away. In the United States, for example again, — who would’ve thought we’d see a woman or scaling black man running for President; this, after some 230 years of just one ilk and pattern.

      The paradigm shift is in our midst.

23. QUESTION:
    what was the mission that the shuttle Columbia had ?

    • ANSWER:
      Mission Highlights

      As a research mission, the crew was kept busy 24 hours a day performing various chores involved with science experiments.

      Experiments in the SPACEHAB RDM included nine commercial payloads involving 21separate investigations, four payloads for the European Space Agency with 14 investigations, one payload/investigation for ISS Risk Mitigation and 18 payloads supporting 23 investigations for NASA’s Office of Biological and Physical Research (OBPR).

      In the physical sciences, three studies inside a large, rugged chamber examined the physics of combustion, soot production and fire quenching processes in microgravity. These experiments provided new insights into combustion and fire suppression that cannot be gained on Earth.

      An experiment that compresses granular materials in the absence of gravity furthered our understanding of construction techniques. This information can help engineers provide stronger foundations for structures in areas where earthquakes, floods and landslides are common.

      Another experiment evaluated the formation of zeolite crystals, which can speed the chemical reactions that are the basis for chemical processes used in refining, biomedical and other areas. Yet another experiment used pressurized liquid xenon to mimic the behaviors of more complex fluids such as blood flowing through capillaries.

      In the area of biological applications, two separate OBPR experiments allowed different types of cell cultures to grow together in weightlessness to elevate their development of enhanced genetic characteristics — one use was to combat prostate cancer, the other to improve crop yield. Another experiment evaluated the commercial usefulness of plant products grown in space.

      A facility for forming protein crystals more purely and with fewer flaws than is possible on Earth may lead to a drug designed for specific diseases with fewer side effects.

      A commercially sponsored facility housed two experiments to grow protein crystals to study possible therapies against the factors that cause cancers to spread and bone cancer to inflict intense pain on its sufferers.

      A third experiment looked at developing a new technique of encapsulating anti-cancer drugs to improve their efficiency.

      Other studies focused on changes, due to space flight, in the cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems; in the systems which sense and respond to gravity; and in the capability of organisms to respond to stress and maintain normal function.

      NASA also tested a new technology to recycle water prior to installing a device to recycle water permanently aboard the International Space Station.

      The European Space Agency (ESA), through a contract with SPACEHAB, flew an important payload focused on astronaut health, biological function and basic physical phenomena in space. These experiments addressed different aspects of many of the same phenomena that NASA is interested in, providing a more thorough description of the effects of space flight, often in the same subjects or specimens.

      ESA performed seven in-flight experiments, and one ground-based, on the cardiopulmonary changes that occur in astronauts.

      Additional ESA biological investigations examined bone formation and maintenance; immune system functioning; connective tissue growth and repair; and bacterial and yeast cell responses to the stresses of space flight.

      A special facility grew large, well-ordered protein and virus crystals that were expected to lead to improved drug designs. Another studied the physical characteristics of bubbles and droplets in the absence of the effects of Earth’s gravity.

      SPACEHAB was also making it possible for universities, companies and other government agencies to do important research in space without having to provide their own spacecraft.

      The Canadian Space Agency sponsored three bone-growth experiments, and was collaborating with ESA on two others.

      The German Space Agency measured the development of the gravity-sensing organs of fish in the absence of gravity.

      A university was growing ultra-pure protein crystals for drug research. And another university was testing a navigation system for future satellites.

      The U.S. Air Force was conducting a communications experiment. Students from six schools in Australia, China, Israel, Japan, Liechtenstein and the United States were probing the effects of space flight on spiders, silkworms, inorganic crystals, fish, bees and ants, respectively.

      There were also experiments in Columbia’s payload bay, including three attached to the top of the RDM: the Combined Two-Phase Loop Experiment (COM2PLEX), Miniature Satellite Threat Reporting System (MSTRS) and Star Navigation (STARNAV).

      There were six payloads/experiments on the Hitchhiker pallet — the Fast Reaction Experiments Enabling Science, Technology, Applications and Research (FREESTAR), which was mounted on a bridge-like structure spanning the width of the payload bay. These six investigations looked outward to the Sun, downward at Earth’s atmosphere and inward into the physics of fluid phenomena, as well as tested technology for space communications.

      FREESTAR held the Critical Viscosity of Xenon- 2 (CVX-2), Low Power Transceiver (LPT), Mediterranean Israeli Dust Experiment (MEIDEX), Space Experiment Module (SEM- 14), Solar Constant Experiment-3 (SOLCON-3) and Shuttle Ozone Limb Sounding Experiment (SOLSE-2). The SEM was made up of 11 separate student experiments from schools across the U.S. and was the 14th flight of a SEM on the space shuttle.

      Additional secondary payloads were the Shuttle Ionospheric Modification with Pulsed Local Exhaust Experiment (SIMPLEX) and Ram Burn Observation (RAMBO).

24. QUESTION:
    Claim denied by Insurance?
    Had Builder’s Risk Insurance, this insurance is for construction of residential house, the foundation wall collapsed during 3rd day, the foundation wall was not build as per plan, i had to sue builder, architect and surveyor. my insurance company denied the calim. i though they will pay to repair or rebuild and then recover or sue my builder. they also denied to pay me rent even though i had loss of use of property coverage. any way i can collect the claim to rebuild, repair foundation wall or rent i pay till the wall is fixed.

    • ANSWER:
      A builders risk endorsement on a policy is for theft of building materials, only. If the house was to be done in about 6 months, you could have purchased a regular homeowners policy (if it was intended to be your primary home) and added the endorsement. Faulty construction is NEVER covered by any property policy. It is an exclusion in the policy. You have to contact the commercial policy, hopefully you obtained certificates of GL & WC from the contractors (ALL of them working on the house) so you know who the insurance company is. It is also possible they deny coverage for faulty workmanship because a GL generally is for accidental damage (for example – a piece of construction equipment catches on fire & burns down your half done house, or a ladder falls & breaks your brand new custom window). You cannot collect loss of use on a house that is not built yet. You are not living in it, therefore not using it. You would have to pay rent if the collapse didn’t happen. There is no loss of use to cover.
      NO construction I know takes the exact amount of time stated by the contractor and I am sure there is a clause in the contract you signed that has to do with this. Things happen, weather happens, emergencies happen with other customers of the contractors. If you are only 3 days behind now, consider yourself lucky.

25. QUESTION:
    3-D Printers or Mass Production in space.?
    Hello,
    I recently entered a contest on innovation for space products, by the Spirits of Innovation of Conrad Foundation. I was wondering about mass production in space and have a question how a 3-D printer will work in Zero Gravity environment. There printers who “Grow” their parts using additive form. What would be some constraints of a 3-D printer in space and/or mass production?Thank you we will be more than glad to mention you in our submission form if we use your idea.

    • ANSWER:
      Made in Space has tested a 3-D extrusion-based printer in zero-gravity with successful results (Summer 2011), and is scheduled to do sub-orbital testing in 2012 as part of NASA’s Flight Opportunities Program.

      Made in Space, Inc. has been selected for a NASA Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contract to develop in-space 3D manufacturing capability for the International Space Station. No terms have been released, but NASA says that SBIR agreements are typically funded for six months at amounts of up to 5,000.

      The 3D system, called the Additive Manufacturing Facility, “will allow for immediate repair of essential components, upgrades of existing hardware, installation of new hardware that is manufactured, and the manufacturing capability to support commercial interests. Additive manufacturing is the process of building a part layer-by-layer, with an efficient use of the material. The process leads to a reduction in cost, mass, labor and production time,” according to Made in Space’s proposal.

      As part of this proposal, Made in Space, Inc., combined with the mission experience of Arkyd Astronautics, Inc. and NanoRacks, LLC, will develop an Additive Manufacturing Facility for the ISS that will enable on-board manufacturing capability. The crew would be able to utilize the Additive Manufacturing Facility (AMF) to perform station maintenance, build tools, and repair sections of the station in case of an emergency.

26. QUESTION:
    my face is super dry?
    my face is super dry and it kind of flakes and when i put my foundation and concealer it looks really bad bc it just makes it even drier and cakey looking.. what can i do to make my face more oily or somewhat better than what i have now..?
    i also mosturize but that doesn’t do any good..

    • ANSWER:
      I’m on my second round of Accutane, which is a drug for acne that makes your face VERY dry. That and the fact that I’ve been dealing with Dermatologists since I was in sixth grade has given me some good experience in this field.

      I use Cetaphil cream at night. Not the kind that comes with a pump but the kind that has a twist-off top. It’s thick but has no dies and no perfume and is non comedogenic (won’t clog pores). Another option is CeraVe. Most of the dermatologists I’ve seen have recommend one or the other, and I’ve found these brands to be basically the same thing, and they make basically the same products. If you have a really dry patch of skin, Aquaphor is great for helping repair dry skin and is also great for use at night-I’ve never noticed that it clogs pores either. It has about the consistency of vaseline, but it works MUCH better for dry skin, because that is what it is made for. I’ve also mixed a glob of that with a moisturizer and put it all over my face. If my face is really dry like yours seems to be, I notice that Cetaphil cream does make my face a little more oily, and my skin doesn’t flake if I use a little bit of powder to even out my complexion. If it is too oily for you, you can always use a lighter moisturizer for during the day, but i highly recommend using the Cetaphil at night.

      Another thing you can do to avoid flaking skin during the day is when your in the shower **gently** wipe your face with something like a soft, damp wash cloth to get the excess dry skin off your face. I wouldn’t recommend exfoliating face washes because the beads can be hard on dry or sensitive skin. Next, wait ten minutes after you get out of the shower, and apply the moisturizer of your choice to your face. Wait another few minutes to give it a chance to soak in, then treat any areas that are still dry with something a little thicker like the products I’ve talked about. After letting that layer soak in, you can apply your makeup. I know it sounds time consuming, but you can do it like in between getting dressed and doing your hair and such.

      I don’t know if you have acne or not, but if that isn’t a problem for you, make sure that you aren’t using face wash that is drying you out. Things with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid are often in face washes that you see commercials on TV for. These chemicals can be good for clearing up acne, but if your skin is dry then it may be a good idea to look into a less harmful washing routine. I use Cetaphil gentle skin cleanser (NOT the daily facial cleanser) now that my face is very dry, and I have used it in the past to make my face washes less harsh by mixing a little in my hand with my other face wash. As I said for the Cetaphil moisturizer, this Cetaphil gentle skin cleanser has no dies or perfumes and won’t clog pores. It takes the excess oil off your face so you don’t break out but it doesn’t strip away moisture as cleansing agents with harsh chemicals for acne do.

      These products may be a on the pricier side of drugstore products, but they are highly recommended by dermatologists and they last a long time, because you get good sized bottles.
      I hope I wasn’t confusing with all the brand names and stuff, but 8 years of experience with Dermatologists and sensitive/dry skin has taught me that little things like that are important.
      Best of luck 🙂

27. QUESTION:
    Foundation and acne issues? Help! I want clear skin :(?
    So I have a lot of acne scars on my face, so when I go out I like to use foundation. I either use NYC or Mary-Kay foundation. But after using both, I start to break out a lot causing more acne, and therefore more acne scars, and an increased need to use foundation to cover those scars as well. Is it just my skin type or could it also be the foundation? What can I use to make my skin look clean? I’ve been using proactive for about 3-4 years now. And it definitely has helped control my acne, but not completely get rid of it. I eat EXTREMELY healthy as well, so it’s not my diet. Help?

    • ANSWER:
      Try Jane Iredale Makeup! This is a mineral makeup that they use at a lot of dermatology offices for people who just had work done on their face. They use this makeup because of it’s healing ingredients! Yup, it actually helps to speed up the healing process of blemishes or other impurities!!!! If you choose not to go with this line, try out Bare Escentuals or Bare Minerals, these both are a mineral makeup line that will not clog your pores! (the cream foundations are more prone to clog).

      And to help you out with the breakouts, you actually need to stop using the Proactive, the harsh ingredients in the line is not good to use on your skin everyday….you are over exercising your skin and causing your skin to not clear up completely (ya, I know, they don’t tell you that on the commercials). Just like when exercising your muscles, you need to give them a break to let them heal so they can repair themselves and get bigger….you need to let your skin rest from the active ingredients to let it repair itself and form new healthy skin cells!
      You need to find a cleaner that is mild, that doesn’t contain glycolic acid, salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. To find this an easy way, you need to look for an organic skin care line. (Sanitas is a great line! They aren’t completely organic, but do offer several products to choose from that do not contain these harsh ingredients! Their Milk and Honey and Lemon Cream cleansers are a great start!).
      You also need a good exfoliator to use no more than every other day. This helps to exfoliate off dead skin cells that clog pores by holding in dirt and oil. When you use the exfoliator, you need to then “feed” your skin to heal it. To do this, a good mask with vitamins in it will work great! (yes, just like your body, your skin needs vitamins too, topically!). Vitamin C is great to help heal. Vitamin A is great for wrinkles and acne (be careful to not use too much though as is can thin skin…such as Retin-A does. Agian, Sanitas is a line that has Vitamin A containing products that is a safe amount!). And then of course vitamin E is wonderful too for the skin’s health!

      And don’t forget about a moisturizer! Try to find one with vitamins in it as well, since the moisturizer is what is left on your skin, this will help to continue to protect and feed your skin throughout the day or night!! And this will sound weird, but have you ever tried Olive oil? It sounds scary to use since it’s oil, but Olive oil is actually a non pore clogging oil that will actually heal your skin and moisturize it greatly!! (wonderful on your hands too if they are dry!!!!) And plus, it’s cheap and easy to find!!! (I am an esthetician, and olive oils is actually what we use as the massage oil for the facials!!!!!!! Random fact for ya! That or Jojoba oil (but since some people can react to Jojoba oil, olive oil is safer to use on any body!).

      And for your scaring, Knutek has a great serum for scarring to use along with an exfoliater!!!!

      Well, I hope this helped you out! I know it’s more that what you were asking, but I love to help out when it comes to the skin everyone sees since it’s on the face and helps with self esteem!

28. QUESTION:
    Landlord shall “keep and maintain”…?
    My commercial lease states that Landlord shall keep and maintain the roof (including the structural integrity thereof), foundation, and the exterior walls of the building in which the premises are located in good repair, provided that the Landlord shall not be required to make any such repairs occasioned by the act of negligence of Tenants, it’s agents, employees, invitees, licensees or contractors.

    Bearing the above paragraph in mind, have 2 questions about this…

    1. When I started my Tenant Improvements, my space was just a shell. The floor was dirt. I paid to have the slab poured. My Landlord reimbursed me from my “Tenant Improvement Allowance.” I asked my neighboring tenant if they had the slab pourback taken from their allowance. They said no. Should this have been taken from my tenant allowance?

    2. I paid the Landlord’s roofing company 00 for “flashing out” 2 holes which were cut in the roof for HVAC & Plumbing ventilation. Was this my responsibility to pay?

    • ANSWER:
      Just because the landlord must keep and maintain the roof and foundation in good repair, the contract will specify who is responsible to pay to build the roof, and pour the foundation. The clause you reference in your lease only says that once the roof and foundation are finished, the landlord would be responsible for maintaining them in good repair, unless damaged by negligence.

      1. To answer your question regarding your tenant improvement allowance, and appropriate payouts, you should find the clause in your contract regarding the allowance. Whatever the contract says is what you agreed to when you signed the lease. If other capital improvements come out of your tenant improvement allowance, maybe pouring the foundation is your responsibility also.

      2. The roof needed flashing to finish the installation job of the HVAC & Plumbing ventilation. If you were responsible for installation, then adding the flashing around the holes would be your responsiblity, even if the landlord’s roofing company completed the job. (Probably the plumbing contractors were not licensed to do the flashing, only cut the holes. Therefore, roofers were needed to finish the job).

      The neighboring tenant may have a different lease than you do. Leases are negotiable. While the leases may be similar, there is no reason to assume they are exactly the same.

29. QUESTION:
    How to be a commercial property landlord?
    Ok, so I have two rental properties (single family homes) and thought about venturing into the apartment options. I found a 5 unit apartment complex that is above a retail space (approx 3700 square feet or retail space). I figure I could break even on payments if the 5 units were rented, so the biggie would be getting the retail space rented. I’ve never leased a retail space. What are the pitfalls, and what should I know about going down this road? I guess I’m more worried about insurance issues and hidden expenses that a novice wouldn’t think about until the bills came. Any resources, books, tapes, etc. that would help out? I think I don’t know enough about this to know what questions to ask and that should be a reason to RUN from this opportunity, but maybe after getting this knowledge, I’d be better equipped to make a decision in the future. Any help from commercial real estate landlords is very appreciated. Thank you so much!!!

    • ANSWER:
      As landlord of a commercial property, you’re faced with a challenging task, but it can be a profitable task, if done correctly. If you own an office building, retail strip, hotel, restaurant space or warehouse, you may want to save the fee paid to a property management company and manage the building yourself. There are many details to consider, but once you understand the basics, you’ll have a good foundation from which to run your commercial property.

      Instructions

      Calculate the rent per square foot for your building. Look at ads for space in your area, and visit these properties to compare them to your own. Call listing agents to ask for the average price of similar buildings. Review current leases to determine if they are at market value.

      Add the triple net (NNN) and common area maintenance (CAM) fees to the cost of the lease. NNN is an additional expense where the tenants pay their portion of the property taxes, insurance and CAM, such as elevators, hallways and parking lots. CAM is calculated by dividing the tenant’s space by the total amount of leased space available.

      Prepare a lease agreement, with the help of a real estate attorney. Your contract should include details such as cost per square foot, total rent, term (length) of the lease, NNN and CAM, who is responsible for which repairs, who pays for any remodeling before move-in and the percent of rent increases per year — if any.

      Advertise any vacancies that you have in your property. If you know that a tenant will be moving out at the end of the lease, advertise for new lessees 12 months before the expiration. Placing a professionally made sign in front, and an ad in the local newspaper, should yield inquiries. Also, advertise on websites, such as LeaseMLS, to reach a wider market (see “Resources”). In addition, mail flayers to tenants in buildings around yours. They may want to move, once their lease expires.

      Require that all companies interested in leasing space complete an application. Review these carefully, and check the credit and background of each business, along with the principals of the company, using a service such as Abika (see “Resources”).

      Meet with the new tenant to sign the lease agreement. Ask for a personal guarantee from the tenant, which consists of a form that allows the landlord to collect from the tenant’s personal assets if the business is unable to pay the lease.

      Use rental management software, such as Rent Is Easy, to keep track of rent payments, lease expiration, expenses and deposits (see “Resources”), especially if you have many spaces in your building.

      Keep the lines of communication open with your tenants. Ask them if there’s anything they need from you. Not hearing from tenants doesn’t mean that they’re content. You may be able to retain more lessees by regularly touching base.

30. QUESTION:
    Replacing a broken drain under cement foundation—do-able by homeowner?
    We live in a fifty-three year old modest tract home in Southern Calif.
    The kitchen sink started to back up.
    Soon, water was coming out from under the sink/cabinet.
    Husband rented a commercial snake to open up what we thought was a clogged kitchen sink.
    The tip of the snake kept bringing up mud/clay.

    My husband felt we were opening up Pandora’s Box so I called my homeowners insurance, explained the situation and they opened a claim.

    Mercury (our insurance) sent a Leak Detection Specialist who diagnosed the problem as a main drain T’d off from the bathroom tub and kitchen sink, which run directly across from each other and meet in the middle/dining room, had rusted out and the broken/rusted part of the pipe was now sitting in mud under the cement foundation.

    Homeowners Insurance called me this morning and said they will pay for a camera to see the break and pay for any damage.

    Other than the kitchen cabinet that is soaked (we have been drying it with two large fans for the last week), here is no damage as we caught the drain break quickly.

    Twenty-two years ago the same thing happened to my parents’ home and their homeowners insurance paid for access to the drain break and to close up the foundation and replace the wood floor.My parents were responsible for paying all the plumbing work with regards to their drain break.

    Unfortunately we are not so lucky.
    Why pay my homeowners insurance all these years if all they will pay for is the Camera to go down and find out exactly where the break is located? Rhetorical question….I’m just venting.

    It’s up to us, the homeowners, to pay for removing the wood floor, opening up the cement slab, repair the break and then pour a new section of concrete and replace the floor.

    Other than the jack hammer, we have the saws, the drills and we’ve done most of the repairs in our home ourselves over the years except for the new roof.

    We’ve put in all our own windows over the years, laid our own cement patio and I can put up drywall, tape, mud, sand and plaster right along side my husband.

    Do any of you ‘Pros’ feel the broken drain under cement foundation is doable by a homeowner who has experience with tools and cement?

    Savings was depleted when we moved my elderly parents in with us so this ‘fix’ will have to go slow….paycheck by paycheck.

    Thank you for any and all advice, opinions and responses….much appreciated!
    Rtc Lady

    • ANSWER:
      Yes it is doable. If you already have the concrete saws and other tools then i say go for it. You might want to look and see if it is possable to run the drains on the outside of the foundations like if both the kitchen sink and bathroom were on outside walls. Just something to think about.

      Just remember to when you open you fondation make the alot bigger than you think you need and then ad a couple of feet to that. This will make the repairs alot easier for you.

31. QUESTION:
    Explain the importance of the Roman Roads,bridges,and the construction of these structures. how was this done?
    please answer easy 10 points

    • ANSWER:
      The Romans, for military, commercial and political reasons, became adept at constructing roads, which they called ‘viae’ (plural of singular via). It means “to go” with the sense of transporting in a vehicle. Viae were always intended primarily as carriage roads, the means of carrying material from one location to another.

      The Roman roads were essential for the growth of their empire, by enabling them to move armies speedily and by sustaining land transport for Roman mercantilism. A proverb says that “all roads lead to Rome”. Roman roads were designed that way to hinder provinces organising resistance against the Empire. At its peak, the Roman road system spanned 53,000 miles and contained about 372 links.

      Roman roads vary from simple corduroy roads to paved roads using deep roadbeds of tamped rubble as an underlying layer to ensure that they kept dry, as the water would flow out from between the stones and fragments of rubble, instead of becoming mud in clay soils.

      Prepared viae began in history as the streets of Rome. The laws of the Twelve Tables, dated to approximately 450 BC, specify that a road shall be 8 feet wide where straight and 16 where curved. The tables command Romans to build roads and give wayfarers the right to pass over private land where the road is in disrepair. Building roads that would not need frequent repair therefore became an ideological objective.
      *********************************************************
      Roman Bridges: The Roman architect Vitruvius tells us that in order to lay the foundations and supporting pillars the Romans would construct water tight vessels, rather like barrels. These were made of wood bound by metal. In order to provide water resistance the barrels could be lined with pitch or clay. By lowering these into the river it was then possible to divert the water from the place of work in order to dig down to build foundations. The foundations could be lain directly onto hard rock if it was found or onto wooden piles driven deep into the river bed. This last solution is relatively durable as is demonstrated by the result achieved with Venice! The wet mud and the lack of oxygen prevents the action of the bacteria which would in other cases destroy the wood.

      Once the foundations had been laid the bottom portion of the pillar could be built within the “barrel” and from there brought up to

32. QUESTION:
    WHAT WOULD BE THE BEST USE OF THIS CONDEMNED PROPERTY?
    I need to figure it what is the best option. Its an old home built in 1936, now its commercially zoned. its about 3100 sq ft on a half acre with a small guest house in the backyard about 500 sq ft. To remove the condemned status I need to repair the roof, brick walls, and foundation. Including the interior repairs it will cost about K to fix up. The half acre of land is appraised at k and the building is appraised at K. The appraisal company said it would be worth 5K after repairs. Would it be best to sell it as-is, lease with option to purchase, or it would cost about K to demolish

    • ANSWER:
      You did not say what the purchase price was to acquire the property. This is an important element in determining the exit strategy on buying an investment property.

      Your return on your investment is determined in the cost of the property and your exit strategy.

      You also have to take in consideration the hold time in which you will sell the property.

      So to answer your question there is a lot more information needed.

      Can you realize more of a profit selling the land as a commercial piece of property, after paying the ,000 for the demolishing, or perhaps you do not have to do any demolishing at all? Is your profit more after repairing the property and paying the repairs of ,000? Then don’t forget to take in consideration the hold time involved and perhaps additional expenses that you might incur.

      I hope this has been of some use to you, good luck.

      “FIGHT ON”

33. QUESTION:
    Uninsured Mason hiding behind Uninsured Builder – NJ?
    Foundation wall collapsed on 3rd day, builder denied it was his fault, lied, misdirected and pulled all the fast ones including committing fraud. Builder only has carpentry insurance instead of “GC” insurance as required by Law for he demolishes and constructs houses, during deposition it was discovered the Mason is uninsured. my contract was with builder so i cannot sue the mason. as per Builder’s review other 5 or so home owners reviewed him as Robber. which dept. can initiate legal action against builder and the mason I GUESS IT MAY NOT BE ILLEGAL TO DO BUSINESS WITH out ANY INSURANCE LIKE MASON ?
    complain was filed with consumer affairs, BBB in fact refused to log the complain since my complain was the 1st one, builder’s structural engineer is also unlicnese and unregistered by consu. affairs and even after proof consu. affaris did not intiate any legal action, the proof is as clear as it can be. i think crime pays and innocent home owners get roobed

    • ANSWER:
      Any remodeling, altering, painting, repairing, renovating, restoring, moving, demolishing, or modernizing of a residential structure is considered home improvement work in New Jersey. New Jersey requires: “Since January 1, 2006, anyone who makes or sells home improvements with respect to residential properties in the State of New Jersey must be registered with the Division of Consumer Affairs unless specifically exempted under the statute and may not obtain a construction permit unless registered.

      Every registered contractor must:

      *maintain commercial general liability insurance in a minimum amount of 0,000.00 per occurrence

      *display the registration number in the place of business, in all advertisements, in all business documents including contracts and on all commercial vehicles

      *put home improvement contracts with a purchase price exceeding 0.00 in writing containing all terms and conditions of the contract including: price; a description of the work to be done; materials to be used; and the dates or time period within which the work will be begun and completed. The contract must be signed by all parties.

      *provide a copy of the certificate of commercial general liability insurance with the contract

      *comply with all other requirements of the statute and regulations accessible at www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/contractors/hcrules.htm ”

      You can file suit against the mason and the builder and you can also file a complaint with the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs–against the mason because he is probably unlicensed & uninsured and against the builder for hiring unlicensed and uninsured subcontractors. You can contact the NJ Division of Consumer Affairs at: askconsumeraffairs@lps.state.nj.us.

      In terms of the insurance, it is entirely normal to write a policy using the classification of General Carpentry including general remodeling of the home for General Contractors. The only issue would be if the insurance had a different classification or a limited classification endorsement which would restrict coverage to only specifically disclosed trades. Regardless of this the main issue is that Commercial General Liability Insurance would not cover defective construction nor does it provide any type of construction warranty–it only provides coverage for the resulting damage, i.e. if the contractor builds a deck with a defect and it results in a collapse causing damage to the house and injury to a person/s, the insurance would pay for the repair to the house and for the bodily injury. The insurance would not pay for replacement of the deck itself since it was defective due to the contractors incorrect installation.

      I suggest you file the complaint/s and also seek legal counsel to file suit and recover payment of your damages and resulting damages for the delays.

      I hope this helps. Good Luck!

34. QUESTION:
    I want to shave my hair into Semi-Bald. Help me?
    I want to donate my shoulder length hair to this foundation coming to our village. I know i can donate in many ways and i’m choosing this. I’m just 18 and has large forehead. My hair is damaged by rebonding it every year and by using lots of chemical in my hair. I asked the member if it’s fine to donate my hair even if it isn’t pretty and very damaged she said it’s very fine. I just want to ask if i cover my head using a wig would it grow back like my hair before i use such chemicals? How long does it take to grow until shoulder length or atleast a pixie? Which is better semi bald or completely bald as no hair at all so it will be back to my normal undamaged hair. I really need your help… No insults please. Thank you
    Will wig affect my hair growing?

    • ANSWER:
      HEAT & CHEMICALS are hair’s worst enemies. That depends which of those have ruined your hair.
      If you’ve got healthy scalp you also have healthy hair, and the healthier you’ve taken good care of your hair, the faster your hair will grow OR NOT.

      If you’ve straightened your hair in the past, it may grow slowly or none at all.
      Google: “Foods for Healthy Hair”http://www.foodforhealthyhair.com/ http://sg.news.yahoo.com/food-for-healthy-hair.html – or 10 Best Foods for Your Hair.
      http://www.channelstv.com/home/2012/07/03/10-best-foods-for-your-hair/
      NO MATTER which link you picked, they all suggest the same foods. Your hair may be the fastest-growing tissue in the body but, unlike the skin, it cannot repair itself. That is why getting the right balance of vitamins and proteins is imperative. Don’t expect to look like you’ve stepped out of a hair commercial the day after you’ve changed your diet. It is likely to take at least three months before you actually see tangible results. Hair is dead, but hair also has electrical energy; the negative charge of damaged hair can lead to flyways and unruly hair.

      HAIR TRIVIA:
      • The hair on your head grows at about 0.00000001 miles per hour. That’s a half-inch per month. Mine grows 3/4” in 29 days.
      • Every day, the 5 million or so hairs on an adult’s body add about 40 yards of new growth.

      Hair extensions today, are as hot as GOLD. In India . . . people shave their hair for a shrine there, but someone comes and sweep those hair and sell
      them (by the pound 39cents per lb.) then they are sorted by length, washed and sold again to Gold, a
      business in Europe where they make wigs for Beyonce, Jessica Simpson, Paris Hilton, Rihanna, etc. . . for tons of money. Did you notice, even Jessica & Paris knows this is a good business, they now have their own brand hair extensions, just by using their good names? ~ Forbes article 2001.

      They buy them from Pantene or Locks of Love (but they said they’re NOT), but right now LOL have a bunch of donated hair sitting in their warehouse waiting for buyers and they only donate 1% a year to cancer victims. Their CEO is making tons of money, though! Go to BBB & check them out.
      There are also people who buys hair online, if you have the right connection, otherwise, you probably end up selling to guys for ,000 who have hair fetish, just to get free photos & emails from you.
      India has long provided “much of the world’s natural hair, sold to wholesalers mainly in China, which in turn marketed their products to retailers in Europe and the United States,” he writes. But Ms. Wilson found that Cambodians have similar hair quality, “long with cuticles in alignment,” he writes.
      “Probably 99 percent of the world’s hair comes from India. Nobody had thought of Cambodia,” said Ms. Wilson, 39, straddling piles of hair on the floor.

35. QUESTION:
    I am finishing my basement and putting in a drop ceiling. I need some help…?
    This is one of the new “low-profile” ones that hangs only 1 1/8″ below the joists. The main drain PVC pipes all run together at one point next to the foundation (poured, not block) wall. There is about a 5-6′ section wide that all hangs about 4-5″ below the joist and sticks out 4-5″ from the wall. Question is, how do I go about putting the drop ceiling around this mess? Do I build a “case” for it and block it all in with nice cedar stained wood? I need some suggestions please!
    The other factor is that the main drain pipe runs from the ceiling to the floor. I like the cabinet idea though. With these being solid walls instead of block, I can just drill and screw right into it without the worry of blowing out the back of the block correct?

    • ANSWER:
      I would not build the cabinet or what ever he was trying to describe , If your wall are drywall use drywall type x (fire rated) and when you frame out for the plumbing make it big enough for an access panel (12″x12″ or 16″x16″) in case repairs to the plumbing need to be done and after the drywall is finished properly if can be painted the same color as tile so it is not notised as much. If you have a professional grid man doing the work, Grin. He can actually build a soffit out of the grid material and put the tile in it so it all matches, description of this would be exhausting but it can be done, ive done it for my customers esp. in basements. Find a commercial ceiling grid guy and he should be able to do it if you so choose. ps- it takes rivets and special tile retaining clips for it to work, i say this so you dont get bullshitted by ceiling guy.
      Good luck and let me know how it turned out.

36. QUESTION:
    Drywall Seams are Buckling/bulging?
    I purchased a home that is about 5 years old. Prior to moving into the house, there were no unknown problems with the drywall.

    Fast forward about 15 months, and now some of the seams in the drywall on the ceiling are bulging outward into the room. This is happening on both the top floor and the main floor, with the top floor being the worst.

    I do not believe the problem is due to a foundation issue. I have found no significant cracks in the foundation either from the interior or after a walk around the exterior. The bulges in the drywall are also 90 degrees to the trusses on the 2nd floor (I would expect a foundation issue would break the drywall parallel to the trusses in the weak area…not sure though, never had a foundation issue).

    I was thinking that the builder might have just done a crappy job of fastening the drywall and taping (or lack of tape) the joints.

    Anyone have any ideas why this might be happening and/or any ideas on how to fix it?
    All the drywall with issue are in the ceiling.

    I’ve done some work in the attic putting ceiling fans in and I did not notice any moisture issues up there. When I was working it was summer…perhaps I should poke my head up there again (besides, I left my wife’s good broom up there)

    I’m not sure if there is moisture between the ceiling of the first floor….I’m not seeing any sort of water damage, but I know that isn’t a good indicator.

    • ANSWER:
      There could be a number of resons. First, there could a problem with humidity in the building. Expansion can be a direct result of high humidity. The house may have venting problems, i.e., not enough attic ventilation. Lack of ventilation can cause moisture (humidity) buildup, and if it can’t get out–LOOK OUT. The contractor may also have put poly sheeting on the ceiling. Many areas of the country mandate this, but I have seen a couple of instances where trapped moisture between the poly and drywall can cause buckling, and even sagging of hte drywall. Moisture and humidity can also cause, with no real solution in mind, an unusual amount of expansion in the wooden framing of the house, and cause this buckling in some joints of the house. I have that problem, and I repair it nearly every year. To avoid this problem in apartment / commercial buildings, professional drywallers use metal ‘expansion joints’. These metal joints allow the drywall to expand and ‘creep’, without causing the ugly buckling and damage to the joints it can cause. (the butt or raw seams, mostly) . This problem is always prevelent in LOOOOONG hallways, thus the need for these expansion joints.
      The only thing else I could suggest is to contact a REPUTABLE drywaller (ask around, especially at lumber yards), and for a REPUTABLE building contractor. Without taking a long hard look at your dwelling, this is all the info I can give…..

37. QUESTION:
    How much would this home construction/repair cost?
    My family and I are looking into purchasing a new home. One of the homes that we have seen with our realtor is in the neighborhood that we want to be in. The home is 5000 square feet, and is 2 story. This home is a foreclosure, and is about a 3rd of the cost of the other homes in this area. The problem with this is that in the 5 years that it has been bank owned (with little or no care) and poor construction has led to some MAJOR problems. First of all this homes construction is EIFS (dryvit) and we have been told that it would have to be removed, and most likely replaced with brick. The roof has also had some holes in it, and there is some water damage on the second floor ceiling in one room, which has actually caused a portion the floor to collapse into the bottom floor in this specific room. Another thing we noticed walking through the second floor of this house is that it is “dipping down” in some ares, it looks as though it is sinking into the bottom floor in a few rooms upstairs. It would also need paint, new flooring, appliances, and fixtures, but I know these are more low cost repairs. So my question is, what would the cost be to do the following: remove the EIFS siding and replace with brick, new roof, water damage repair including the collapsed floor (in one room), and the “sinking floor” in some rooms upstairs.

    Here is a picture of the home. http://www.flickr.com/photos/69503953@N06/6317160182/

    Additional Details
    -This home is in central Alabama.
    -I also was told that I could have it converted to real stucco if not brick.
    -It is a slab foundation.
    -The home is for sale for 0,000 though I know I could offer much lower (realtor has told us bank might even take around 0,000). Homes on the same street even (in great condition of course) are listed for well over 1 million dollars. This house sits on a golf course lot. Similar lots in the neighborhood without golf course frontage are offered at 5,000 – 5,000

    • ANSWER:
      === house looks nice aqnd the repairs are worth the effort to own a classy looking house === if you will take photos of the necessary repairs/Re-construction and go to the hardware giants [[LOWE’S or the HoDepot]] and visit the “”””commercial desk”” ((this is what they do)) and explain your photos —- take a bunch of photos inside and out — and they will help you understand the problems and costs with the home repaworkmen irs === some of those repairs will require workmen that are professional and some of those things you and the family can fix on your own …. go and deal with the bank AFTER you talk to the COMM. desk people …. learning and getting some paperwork [[ for dealing price ammo ]] to take to the bank will get you a better argument for a lower price on the house === the elevation view [ front ot the home ] is good and you need to act right now to buy that house …… don’t worry because — if the roof and exterior are not water logged and most of the problems are interior then all that can be fixed for less that you think … photos and conversation at the commercial desk and then on to the bank …

38. QUESTION:
    i av split ends n my hair r turning freezy?????
    2 years back my hairs were so gud dat evry1 used 2 praise it n i dont know what all happened suddenly………
    my hairs started falling……
    i have split ends…..
    n on top of dat my hairs r becoming dry n freezy day by day

    earlier my hairs were straight but now curls have become n dat looks very fluffy n freezy

    some1 told me dat its bcoz m not taking my diet properly
    i apply garnier oil repair conditioner
    please suggest me wat to do?wat 2 eat?or some hair product othrwise my hairs wil get…………………
    n m a teenager

    • ANSWER:
      DON’T ACCEPT SPLIT ENDS, DRY & DAMAGED HAIR. MAKE THEM SHINY, THICK & FULL & STRONG FROM THE ROOTS. Use “Segals” Brand of hair care and treatment products, manufactured in Canada. The products have a large clientele among the quality-conscious and upwardly mobile customers in various countries including the USA, Canada, France, Australia and Hong-Kong.

      The products are revolutionary and the product range consists of a wide range of Formulations, Shampoos, Conditioners, Supplements, etc all manufactured for a precise and specific application to achieve desired results. The products are a highly concentrated and balanced compound of rare and exotic botanical herbs and other active ingredients including antioxidants. The scalp and hair-formulations have been designed to work from the root & arrest hairloss and promote hair regrowth, treat thinning, damaged/dry hair, dandruff and psoriasis-like conditions in the scalp. Needless to say, all the products are effectively pH balanced, without side-effects and are GUARANTEED for visible results.

      Specific to your problem, it is stated that damaged hair starts due to an improper hair-cell metabolism. Good nutrition is important to have thick, full, luxurious hair with bounce, shine and proper texture. To ensure good quality hair growth and texture, the hair root needs a constant supply of oxygen and nutritional substances, which it obtains from the blood. The starved hair follicle needs to be nourished from within. The lack of proper nutrition to the hair root and follicle and unbalanced vitamin intake leads to tired/dry/damaged hair and subsequent hair loss. Apart from lack of nutrients, Stress also causes such problems by the constriction of capillaries which feed the hair follicle. Stress also causes excessive perspiration attracting airborne debris and pollutants, thus clogging the hair follicles, leading to damage to the hair texture, affecting their strength, giving a dry & frizzy look.

      I suggest you to use a herbal supplementation formulated from the best known herbs for healthy hair growth from roots. The rare herbs and active ingredients that help so are Fo-Ti, Stinging Nettle, Kelp, SawPalmetto, Silica, Rosemary, Inositol, Biotin and Horsetail. I recommend to you the following for a minimum period of 3 months for visible results leading to reversal of the premature loss of your hair :
      i) Segals Hair Root Formula: For cleaning the scalp and revitalizing the root of the hair for new hair growth. It makes the root free of all sebum, grime, flakes and dirt thereby strengthening the root and thus encouraging hair to grow. The blood circulation in the root is considerably enhanced, laying the foundation for healthy hair growth. To be applied on the scalp every night before bed. Not sticky. Will get absorbed in the scalp on its own.
      ii) Segals Advanced Hair Root Supplement: For stimulating hair-cell metabolism and strengthening the connective tissue. Active ingredients in the Supplement have a nutritional ability to not only grow back lost hair but also restore hair to its natural colour and strength. Contains rare herbs like Fo-Ti, Saw-Palmetto, Kelp, Stinging Nettle, Inositol, Biotin, Horsetail and Silica, apart from other active botanical extracts, which are proven to show healthy hair growth from the roots.

      Alongwith the Formulation and Hair Supplement suggested above, you need to you use Segals Shampoo & Conditioner for Damaged Hair to arrest the problem. Please don’t use any commercial shampoos available in the market that contain Sodium Lauryl Sulphate / Cocamide / Propylene Glycol / Sodium Chloride / Artificial Colouring or Pearlizing Agents. Avoid perming and blow-drying for atleast 2-3 months while using the specified products, till the effects are visible and stabilise.

      These products are created by a Qualified Pharmacist in Canada and meant only for quality-conscious people. The fact that the products carry a 100% money-back guarantee in U.S and Canada should convince you about their effectiveness. All products are natural extracts and have no side-effects. The effectiveness of these products is backed by scientific research and clinical trials. These products are a better, safe and effective answer to various chemical formulations available in the market. There is no better, rather no other product available in the Indian market that contains the ingredients specified above and show such stupendous results. I assure you that you will regain the strength, volume, bounce, shine, length and texture of your hair back with consistent usage of these products. You may contact the customer care no. given on the products: (0)97105-15598, 98841-99958 for further details.

39. QUESTION:
    Rental Business: Cracks and Age of Building – Good Reasons to Walk Away?
    Hi,
    I viewed a Plex that was built in 1880!
    it has a few horizontal cracks on exterior wall that was painted (maybe to hide damage!?) so not clear how wide the cracks are etc.
    Is it even worth a home inspection assuming everything else is fine – great rent, great price, condition etc..
    OR are the above alone good reasons not to buy and save the inspection?

    Also, a couple more questions on this topic, related to risk:

    – Isn’t it a big risk that it will be impossible to sell such an old property in the future? that it may take 3-5 years to sell a 130 yrs old Plex??

    – What are some of the signs that 100 yrs old house (or 150 yrs old) is near the end of its life? meaning structure or anything else will shortly be beyond repair resulting in a need to demolish it or get an outstanding order from the city to do so?

    THANKS.

    • ANSWER:
      Okay, NO house built in the 1880s is going to still have an excellent foundation. Most buyers of “historic” buildings are aware that they’re going to have some issues due to age. What you want to find out is if it’s in acceptable shape *for its age.*

      Inspections don’t cost much, so if you really like the building just get it done. As for resale, commercial properties take longer than houses to sell in general. In the housing market, a listing is considered “aged” if it’s been listed for 6 months or more. With commercial buildings the expected typical time for a listing is much more flexible. A property that’s been listed for a year or two (or even more if it’s a really unique property, like a historical apartment building) won’t necessarily be viewed negatively. Plenty of investors buy a property then list it again before long at the price they WANT to sell it for, and just wait however long it takes for someone to be interested in buying the property at that price.

      I honestly couldn’t give you guidelines on when an old building should just be torn down because I’m not an engineer. You need a professional’s opinion on this. I would suggest trying to find an inspector who is well-versed in older buildings, and to also talk to perhaps a structural engineer that he/she trusts. You don’t want to buy a money pit, of course, but sometimes the charm and interest of an older building outweighs its inevitable need for restoration.

40. QUESTION:
    Random sounds in the house?
    Has anyone ever noticed little noises in your house or apartment, as if someone else is in the house with you? when the television stand makes this weird crack sound..sometimes my closet makes this loud crack sound too..why does this happen…this has nothing to do with ghost..This is the only way I can explain it..so if anyone can explain why this happens
    I live in an apartment..also during the summer times..we always hear this loud sound like the apartment building is moaning..almost like the sound of a rocking boat. lol

    • ANSWER:
      # Temperature changes cause houses to moan, shift, and creak. Desert climates have the widest temperature swings between day and night, but even temperate climates have seasonal changes that can cause your house to shift slightly. And when a couple of floorboards rub against each other and echo in an attic, the noise can sound like someone in agony.

      # Settling houses make snaps, thuds, creaks, and groans. If your house is new, it may be settling. A hastily-poured foundation, or one poured at the wrong time of year, can produce outrageous noises for years after the house has been built.

      There are other reasons why a house can “settle.” If you’ve had an earthquake in your region, your house may now be settling back into place. If you’ve had unusually high rainfall, or a drought, the ground around your house will shift. A piano or waterbed moved in or out of a room can cause the whole house to readjust itself.

      # Critters in the walls or attic can sound bizarre. The scurrying noises alone can sound like little ghostly footsteps. A bushy tail of a squirrel or raccoon, rubbing on all sides of a narrow passageway inside a wall or alongside a chimney… Well, you’ll be convinced that a ghostly woman in a full Victorian skirt just passed you.

      If two animals decide to argue or chat within your walls, in your basement, or overhead in your attic, sometimes they sound like ghostly whispers, or a full-fledged argument in a strange dialect!

      # Check for even smaller critters, such as wood ants or termites. If they’re weakening the house’s structure, the house will moan and groan as it shifts its weight.

      # Is there construction going on near you? Perhaps rocks tumble from their recently-blasted niches, at a certain hour of the night when the temperature dips low enough to cause contractions and shifts. The roof of a new house can make astonishing noises, especially at night. Ask anyone who’s put a roof on a house, or repaired one, about the nails that pop out overnight.

      # If it happens at the same time every night, it’s not necessarily a ghostly hour. Temperatures and humidity change at night. When these natural effects reach a “critical mass” level, the house may shift. A loose shingle may pop up again. The mortar in your chimney may contract just enough to cause dust to echo as it tumbles to the ground or hearth. These kinds of things happen night after night. It’s part of the natural cycle of a house.

      This “critical mass” effect is usually at approximately the same time, each night. Seasonal changes and unseasonable variations can shift the hour back or forward, but it’s still within the same approximate time period.

      # Do you live near a commercial area? You may live far enough from a shopping center that you don’t hear the garbage collectors’ trucks. However, when they lift one of those huge containers of trash and empty it into the truck… wow! If that noise echoes off a neighbor’s siding or cement wall, it can seem as if something is crashing on your patio, or in an another room, particularly if the windows are open.

41. QUESTION:
    I need help with my job descion.?
    well i’m a very good artist and i’m really good at drawing anime and realistic art (not bragging). And i might go to art and design foundation program (it’s for art students who are un-sure for what art job they wanna go for. And the program is really good and it’s about a year long. But they job I want is concept artist but i just wanna take that program to see if how the job is like.

    and my other job that i have in mind is under water skills. It’s baiscly realting work in rivers,lakes,canals and inspection and repair work. As well it can be for the police, they look in the water for evidence and clues for the police. there are 2 types of under water skills one is commercial diver and the other is for the police.

    so i was wondering if anyone can give me pro’s and con’s of each job (concepet artist and under water skills person).

    • ANSWER:
      According to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Concept_art, “Concept art is a form of illustration where the main goal is to convey a visual representation of a design, idea, and/or mood for use in movies, video games, or comic books before it is put into the final product”.
      “Professional diving (Commercial Diving or Diving for Financial Gain) takes a range of diving activities to the underwater work site”.
      I feel that you can opt for job as a concepet artist.

42. QUESTION:
    In Full Time Job. Home Computer Courses?
    I’m currently in a full time job. But looking for Home Computer courses to study during the evening to expand my knowledge for computers. I know quite a bit about computers self taught and education from school and few months of College but don’t want to start from the start. Any ideas of any good places or somewhere to get good advice on this?

    • ANSWER:
      COMPTIA A+ certification training. This will give you a solid foundation on computer maintenance, platforms and repair.

      Plenty of free and commercial content available online.

43. QUESTION:
    ANT REPELLENT?! EWW! HELP… please?
    ok. im a 13 year old girl. i keep my room clean and everything… but today i saw some nasty little ants coming from my room! my parents are neat freaks so i doubt it would be my house. urghh… (we have wooden flooring)

    i told my mom & she killed the ants she saw in my room.
    i sprayed lysol germ killer all around my floor. (its all we had)
    and i wiped it down…

    every once in a while i see an ant on the floor or on my desk.
    it grosses me out!

    how can i get rid of them without buying that expensive bug repellent or calling an exterminator people…

    AHH!! seriously!! HELP!! =/

    please and thank you…!

    • ANSWER:
      You won’t likely want to read this, but there is lots of good information in this article on controlling ants.

      http://www.pmra-arla.gc.ca/english/consum/ants-e.html

      Quote:

      Preventative Control of Ants

      Removing access to food and water is the easiest way to avoid all pest problems.

      store ant-attractive foods in glass jars with rubber gaskets or in plastic containers with snap-lids
      keep kitchen counter tops clean; sweep or vacuum the floor frequently, especially around pet dishes
      rinse containers before disposing of them in garbage or recycling bins
      empty kitchen garbage containers frequently
      do not place composters too close to the house
      ants may enter through cracks around moldings and plumbing, cracks in the foundation or exterior walls – repair and seal as many visible cracks as possible
      indoors, it is helpful to caulk along baseboards, cracks and crevices to block the ants passage through the house – if necessary, use duct tape or petroleum jelly to seal cracks temporarily
      ants will not cross sticky barriers – try placing two-sided tape or a commercial natural gum resin insect barrier paste around the legs of plant stands, or the base of fruit trees, to keep ants away
      place pet dishes in a ‘moat’ (a pan of water with a little detergent in it to break the surface tension and prevent ants from floating across)
      flood ant nests repeatedly with a garden hose to encourage ants to move outdoor nests further from the house
      pour boiling water and detergent down the nest to temporarily reduce the population of a colony
      diatomaceous earth can be placed in the cracks and crevices as a non-chemical means of control (this powder is composed of microscopic fossils that scratch the outer ‘skin’ of ants, causing the ants to dehydrate and die)

44. QUESTION:
    enlighten me about termite proofing the ancient buildings at low cost?
    I have got a building constructed in clay and plastered with cement but i do face acute growth of termite network on all the wooden work, i want to termite proof the whole structure.

    • ANSWER:
      Hello Jayavel S,

      Prevention
      1.Wood-to-ground contact should be eliminated, i.e. wooden porches should be separated from the building proper and wooden steps should rest on a concrete base at least 6 inches above grade. Wood partitions and posts should be installed in basements after the concrete floor is poured and should never extend into or through concrete. Keep soil or mulch away from wood siding. Remove all wood scraps and do not bury them in soil near the house foundation.
      2.Keep wooden planters, trellises and raised beds away from foundations.
      3.Keep firewood away from the house and elevated off the ground.
      4.Make sure termite barriers are applied under new additions.
      5.Promptly repair leaks and faulty drainage.
      6.Fill any cracks in your foundation and seal any openings, particularly where utility pipes and wires enter from the outside.
      7.Eliminate standing water, which pools against the foundation. Re-grade the ground so that water drains away from the house.
      8.Avoid putting landscape plants or trees close to the building and make sure turf sprinklers and drip irrigation emitters are not soaking the home walls or foundation.

      For more information in India , contact the below address, they are professional and will guide you accurately and effectively.
      Also,This is a family-owned company, absolutely committed to supplying only the best and most reliable pest control services

      Contact person:Veejai Ahluwalia
      Email:: vj@sterlingpcs.com

      STERLING PEST CONTROL SERVICES
      9-B, H.M. Commercial Complex
      Bhai Rajyogi Jaimal Singh Marg,
      Mumbai – 400037.

      Phone: 091-22 24021361
      Fax: 091-22 24079140

45. QUESTION:
    oily face and acne from prednisone?
    i have been taking prednisone for a little over 1 year now for kidney disease. i started at 60mg but have been moved down to 40 mg. before i started taking this med, i had oily skin on my face but now, its like 3 times as oily and i get moderatley bad acne. my doctor perscribed a topical ointment but it didnt do anything but dry my skin out. i eat healthy and exercise so it cant be due to my diet habits. any advice for the oily face and acne? thank u

    • ANSWER:
      I take prednisone almost daily for my asthma, and I have the same problem, mostly with the acne on my face neck and shoulders. honestly the best thing I have found, is water, not overwashing your face, (i am not a commercial) Oxy has a oil free face wash, and honestly, proactiv repairing lotion. It is pricy, but really worth it. I can’t wear foundation at ALL 🙁 . I hope you feel better & I hope this helps!

46. QUESTION:
    Buying a owner held mortgage on a commerical property?
    I have a friend that is interested in purchasing a commerical piece of property, with the owner holding the mortgage.
    I was wondering if anyone had any thoughts on this topics. I do have my own being I have had expereince in the Residential Real estate market but none in the commerical end…
    The concerns I have stressed to date is the property was assessed in 2007 for 99200. They have a contract for 150000.00. Which is far more then the assessment. Also taxes, and deductions, who would be entitled to them if you are paying the owner, I am sure like anything it depends on the contract. If anyone has any other information or things to think of or look for, your opinions would be welcomed. I just dont want my friend to get in over their head, although the individuals have been great people to rent from and great cleints to work with, I still think its a little pricy…Again thank you in advance for your thoughts….
    I forgot to point out at nthis point there is no contract in place its just a thought they have been playing with. Again your thoughts would be greatly apprecaited…

    • ANSWER:
      I recommedj that your friend hire a real estate appraiser who is a Member of The Appraisal Institute (MAI designation) to appraise the property. The assessed value is often not an accurate measure of the fair market value of the property.

      I also recommend that your friend hire an attorney who specializes in real estate law to write the offer.

      I recommend that the attorney include language that makes the purchase contingent upon the appraisal of the fair market value as determined by your appraiser.

      I also recommend that the attorney include language that makes the offer contingent upon your friend’s approval of inspection reports of the roof, the structure, the electrical system, the plumbing system, heating system and the foundation.

      If the appraiser determines the fair market value of the building to be less than the amount offered, yur friend should give the seller two choices:

      Either:

      1. reduce the contract price to the fair market value of the property as determined by your appraiser or

      2. Agree to cancel the contract and direct the escrow company to return your friend’s deposit to him.

      Also, when the inpsection reports come back and show that repairs are needed, again your friend should give the seller two choices:

      Either

      1. make the recommended repairs or compensate for the need ed repairs by further reduciing the purchase price by at least the estimated cost of the repairs or..

      2. Agree to canel the transaction and direct the escrow company to return the deposit to your friend.

      If you and your friend follow the instructions that I have given you your friend will get a commercial building at fair market value and not the inflated value that people and their agents often want for their real estate.

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