How-to guide

02 How To Sell Real Estate 04 How To Plan a Funeral How To Improve Hearing 06 How To Shop for Furniture 08 10 How To Choose a Pharmacist 12 How To Choose a Home Improvement Company 16 How To Get Mileage from Your Tires How To Choose a Plumber/Electrician 18 How To Choose a Window Company 20 22 How To Choose a Care Facility 24 How To Choose a Coin Store How To Choose a HVAC Company 27
Donna Taylor from Meybohm Realtors Shellhouse Funeral Home, Inc. Dr. Hoole Badcock Home Furnishing Centers Medical Center Pharmacy DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen Tyler Tire and Auto Kimballs Plumbing Enloe Residential Co. Shadow Oaks Cleins Rare Coins Mr. Central Heating and Air Sunday, June 26, 2011

InsIde:

aikenstandard.com

Lets get real about selling your real estate

Im sitting at my desk going over our South Carolina listing and selling agreements and Im reminded of a question asked just yesterday by one of my selling clients. She asked, Why do you need the time Im signing this offer next to my signature? she added, We should be so fortunate to have so many folks wanting to buy property that the time one signs a document is critical. Not too long ago, markets were so active, that time was a factor. More than one simultaneous offer was not uncommon. Today, some buyers are anxious over the few number of people looking and wonder if they will ever see an offer for their home. Its a buyers market and getting an offer on a home can be challenging. Still, for the committed seller willing to take the right steps and come to terms with the realities of the market, locking in a buyer isnt impossible. It is our goal to get a property owner the highest possible price in the shortest amount of time. Here are eight factors that can help. Price it Right from the Start Many sellers suffer from attachment bias, they believe that their home is worth more than what they would pay for it. While its a bad idea to overprice a home, its especially dangerous in times like this because there is so much competing inventory. The longer something sits on the market, the more price reductions you might have to make and the more potential buyers will assume that theres something wrong with the home. So its best not to try testing the waters with a high price. Pricing your home at a fair market value brings the highest proceeds. Your REALTOR should provide a Competitive Market Analysis. A CMA isnt just comparative math. A thorough knowledge of the dynamics of property sales in the area is required to make judgments based on the data. If there is still concern over the pricing of the property, bring in an appraiser. Appraisers are Truth Squads - If your buyer plans to get a mortgage, then the mortgage company is going to require an appraisal. The SC Association of REALTORs Agreement to ning. The Wow Factor - Many people will make a decision on your home the moment they walk in the door. Make sure theres a wow factor. Paint, clean carpet, change the filters on your HVAC, keep furniture polished and dusted. If your wallpaper is old and faded consider replacing it. Check your thermostat make it a comfortable cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Get Rid of Clutter - People want to know they have plenty of room to put their belongings in your home. Get rid of unnecessary items lying around; Donna Taylor, Vice President, Broker organize closets, pick-up items left Associate, REALTOR Meybohm Realtors. on the floor. This is not the time to make excuses for the kids make Buy and Sell Real Estate states quite the kids rooms shine as well. If you clearly This agreement is contingent need to box the items and put them at on the lot or parcel with building and a friends, it will be worth the effort to improvements thereon, if any, apprais- make your home look roomy. ing according to the lenders appraisal Shine the Tub - Make your kitchen or other appraisal as agreed, for the and bathrooms obviously clean and selling price or more. An appraisal refreshing. Clean off the counters. helps to establish a propertys market Put cosmetics, pots, pans, dishes valuethe likely sales price it would away. Repair any leaks. If appliances bring if offered in an open and comdont work fix them. Put out fresh petitive real estate market. Dont concolor coordinated towels and accessofuse a comparative market analysis, ries. Straighten the linen closet and or CMA, with an appraisal. Real estate pantry and make them look roomy. agents use CMAs to help home sellOpen Your Home - Open drapes ers determine a realistic asking price. and blinds and let your home feel Experienced agents often come very open and bright. close to an appraisal price with their CMAS, but an appraisers report is much more detailed--and is the only valuation report a bank will consider when deciding whether or not to lend the money.

Top Showing Tips

Try to keep your home in show condition at all times (that can be difficult) then you wont have to go overboard or panic when someone wants to see it. 1. Turn on lights to set a welcome mood. 2. Turn off TVs and radios, they distract viewers. 3. Dont over perfume the home or make it smell too strong, people will wonder what you are covering up. 4. Dont light candles, unless they are battery operated. 5. Smoke outside. An increasing number of people are quickly turned away by homes that smell of smoke. Try to keep the smell of smoke out of the furniture, walls, carpet, etc. 6. Leave your home. At least walk outside while theyre viewing your home. Potential buyers want to look at your home with their own eyes, feeling comfortable to make comments. They will not do that if you are there. Relax - If you have a full time professional REALTOR working with you, you can relax. Your REALTOR wants your home sold as much as you do. REALTORs typically dont make an income unless something gets sold. So were working diligently in this extremely challenging market to make something happen. We are a group of standard-driven professionals that understand the market and want to make your selling experience as short and as easy as possible. Were here to serve you.

So weve priced your home right now lets make it stand out!

Preparing for your sale and what you do during the sale process can make the difference in a saleable home and one that is difficult to sell. Curb Appeal - Lets make sure the first pass isnt the last. Manicure your yard. Sweep your sidewalks. Put potted plants on the porch. Get rid of trash and too much stuff sitting around the yard. Turn on outside lights to display your home even in the eve-

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How to plan a funeral

will need to have vital information for the person such as the date of birth, social security number, parents names (including mothers maiden name) and veteran information (if applicable, the veterans discharge papers will be needed for honors). Few people are open to talking Other information to have available about death and funerals, let alone planning for it. In the event of a death includes, but is not limited to, surviving family members and others to in the family, whether it is expected be named in an obituary or funeral or sudden, decisions have to be program and the location(s) of the made for the final disposition of the newspaper(s) to have the obituary deceased. These decisions may also be made published in. The funeral director and staff will assist you in making all of prior to someones death, either by these arrangements. the individual, a family member, or 6) If a cemetery burial will be both together. included, be prepared to visit the Listed below are ten steps that cemetary office to make arrangeshould be considered when planning a funeral for ones self or a loved one. ments if none have been made previously. You may be required to 1) Regardless of whether it is a sign interment documents, arrange pre-need or at-need arrangement, the first step should be deciding what for payment of the plot and/or grave type of service you and/or your family opening and closing and discuss other information while there. would like to have for the individual. This would include deciding between cremation or burial for the final disposition. Either of these options would offer the choice of having a service, with or without the body present, at a church or temple, the funeral home, at the place of burial or having no service at all. 2) Discuss the choices made with family members or others who will be responsible for planning the funeral arrangements. In doing so, decide on where a service would be held, if any, and who would be presiding over and participating in the service. Choose a burial location for the casketed remains or ashes if this will be a part of your services. The funeral home to assist in carrying out these wishes should also be discussed and decided upon if not chosen already. 3) If planning a funeral or memorial service, consider the music you and/ or your family would want at the service. if the service will include burial of the casketed remains, pallbearers, typically 6-8, should be chosen. 4) Be prepared financially. Funeral costs will vary depending on the services and merchandise selected. Know what your limits are when choosing the type of service desired. The method in which you choose to pay for these services should be considered. Cash, checks, credit cards and insurance assignments are all common means of payment. 5) Meet with a licensed Funeral Director and plan the service. You

Ten Steps to Planning a Funeral (pre-need or at need)

7) Once the service date, time and location have been agreed upon by the family, funeral director and clergy, begin notifying other members of the family of your wishes and plans. The funeral home will publish the obituary for you in most cases. 8) Plan to meet with the clergy and/ or othe service participants to discuss the order of service, music selected, and arrangements for the music. 9) If you and your family would like to have pictures or other items displayed at the visitation or service, begin gathering these items. Video presentation have become common at most funeral services. Your funeral director can help you with this. 10) Once all this information is gathered, place the information in a secure place, lke a safe deposit box or safe. Give a copy to your next of kin, attorney or person handling your arrangements.

Decide what type of service you would like to have. Discuss choices with family members or others who will be responsible for planning the arrangements. Consider the music your and/or your family would want at the service. Be prepared financially. Meet with a licensed Funeral Director and plan the service. Plan to visit the cemetery and/or meet with clergy. Keep all your information in a safe place, and give a copy to your attorney or next of kin.

Shellhouse Funeral Home, Inc.

924 Hayne Ave. Aiken, SC 29801

642-3456
Shellhouse-Rivers Funeral Home, Inc.
715 E. Pine Log Rd. Aiken, SC 29803

641-4401

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Shellhouse Funeral Home, Inc.

Shellhouse-Rivers Funeral Home, Inc.

www.shellhouseriversfuneralhome.com

642-3456

924 Hayne Ave. Aiken, SC 29801

www.shellhouseriversfuneralhome.com

641-4401

715 E. Pine Log Rd. Aiken, SC 29803

JASON B. HUCKS Funeral Director

ROBERT W. SHELLHOUSE, JR. Funeral Director

C. MITCHELL RIVERS Funeral Director

COMPLETE FUNERAL SERVICE

OnSite Crematory Pine Log Rd. Location
Affiliated with Bethany Cemetery Pre-Planning Arrangements Monuments Out of Town Burial Service
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How to transform your life with better hearing

Ask yourself
distorted by a loss of hearing, then its like reading a book that is missing every other page. You may be able to guess what is missing but at least some of the time you are going to guess incorrectly. Do you have difficulty following a conversation in a noisy restaurant or crowded room? Do you sometimes feel people are mumbling or not speaking clearly? Are you having a problem keeping up at work or in social groups because you miss key pieces of information? If youre experiencing a hearing loss, you are not alone. One in ten Americans have a hearing loss-thats more than 34 Million persons in the U.S.

Auditory confusion

It took years for your brain to learn the meaning of sounds presented through normal hearing ears. Now, with a decrease in your hearing, your brain must translate distorted information into meaningful sound. Fortunately, professional assistance and technology are now available to resolve your hearing problems.

5 Steps to Better Hearing:

the first step in making an appointment for a hearing screening. To There are three basic parts of the prevent a similar outcome for you and The majority of people lose their ear: the outer, the middle, and inner your loved ones, we wanted to clear hearing slowly over time. Less then ear. Think of the outer ear as contain- up some of the confusion around 10% of these hearing losses can be ing the parts of the ear that you can identifying and treating a hearing medically or surgically corrected. Yet, see and touch. The outer ear collects loss. its also a fact that with new advance- sound waves that travel down the ear Many adults have not had a hearments in hearing aid technology, 95% canal to the eardrum. The eardrum ing screening since grade school and of these losses can be managed vibrates in response to sound. As it may not even remember the experieffectively to enhance your quality of moves, three tiny ear bones, the ossi- ence. Todays hearing screenings are life. cles, are set in motion in the middle thorough and thoughtful, designed to ear. As these bones vibrate, they set flag even mild hearing loss. fluid in motion that is inside the snail After gathering a health history, the Hearing loss, regardless of degree, shaped cochlea or inner ear. The fluid audiologist performing your screening can interfere with ones ability to surrounds hair cells that, when set in will look in your ear with an otoscope participate in the world that greatly motion, generate electrical impulses to check for obstructions, infections depends on communication for social, that travel to the brain through audior other medical conditions that might educational, and occupational activitory nerves where it is processed and affect hearing. If there is no medical ties. The primary mechanism for per- interpreted. Hair cells are fragile and reason for hearing loss, the audioloceiving sound is through our sense some die as a function of disease, gist will screen your hearing to look of hearing. It has been described as head injuries, medications, exposure for signs of any hearing problem. a critical entrance to the brain, but, to noise, and age. The auditory nerve Hearing loss can be prevented or when that entrance is blocked or can be similarly damaged. These at least delayed by wearing hearing obscured, there may be a miscomconditions cannot be medically or sur- protection that is appropriate for the munication. It is not easy for others gically corrected. The most common noise level or activity. Some common to know that you have a hearing loss treatments for hearing loss resultcauses of hearing loss are listening just by looking at you. The physical ing from damage to the hair cells or to music with earphones or ear buds impact is the effect it has on your auditory nerve are hearing aids and at a high volume level, attending rock ability to communicate, learn, and cochlear implants. concerts, hunting or target shooting, participate in social, educational, and and workplace noise. occupational activities. Everyone should be alert to any signs of hearing loss for themselves or loved ones, and take the necesA loss of hearing may make it seem Having a hearing screening is easy sary steps to avoid further loss in the that others are mumbling or may and free, and can put you on a path future. Please see the hearing quiz result in you becoming frustrated. In to reconnecting with missing sounds on the next page and if needed, make fact, understanding of speech occurs through better hearing. Too often, an appointment for yourself or a loved in your brain, not in your ears. If the common misperceptions about hearone. information your brain is receiving is ing loss prevent people from taking

Its a fact of life

The amazing sense of hearing

Dr. Will Hoole

Hearing loss is invisible

Losing your senses

The next step toward better hearing

Having a hearing loss is not something that anyone gets excited about. However, with the right attitude and approach, it can actually be a very manageable condition to care for. Experience shows that people can make remarkable improvements by simply dedicating themselves to getting the most out of wearing a hearing aid or cochlear implant. With hopes of similar outcomes in the future, here are 5 simple steps to better hearing for you or a loved one to use. Have your hearing checked regularly. If a problem is suspected, seek help from an audiologist. Most people wait five to seven years before solving their hearing problem. Thats five to seven years youre missing out on. Learn all you can about your hearing problem. Learn all you can about your particular loss and work with a hearing professional to determine the best solution for you. Keep a positive attitude while you seek help. Much of your success with your hearing aid will depend on your attitude, your desire to learn, and a determination to increase your ability to hear. A positive attitude is crucial to improved hearing. Set realistic expectations. Hearing aids and cochlear implants will help you hear better, but cannot restore your hearing. Practice and be patient. The transition to better hearing requires practice. Its an investment that usually begins to pay dividends within the first two months. Remember, the more you utilize your hearing aids and/or cochlear implants, the better your experience will be. Sometimes aural (re)habilitation is indicated to help your brain adjust to the new information it is receiving.

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How to shop for furniture

Buying Quality Furniture
The same, of course, goes for upholstered furniture. You should look for properly constructed hardwood frames (often called kiln dried Perhaps the simplest rule for buyhardwood) with steel coil springs ing furniture these days is first, shop or other sturdy, supportive suspenaround, and second, buy the best you can possibly afford. Fine furnish- sion elements in seating surfaces. ings, properly cared for, whether new The surfaces should be hand tied to the frame at eight points with zigor antique, can last many lifetimes, zag springs in seat backs. Cushions whereas money spent on the cheap and the flashy usually ends up in the should be well proportioned and made of down, quality high-density garbage heap. Think of furniture, at foam or other natural materials used least the basics, as an investment, and spend the time to make sure you in quantity for comfort. Cushions should have both an inner and an are making the right one. outer cover and be attached to the Though there is not enough space frame with tacks, screws and nails here to go through all of the various rather than staples. For upholstery, levels of quality furniture construclook for straight seams, matching tion, there are a few things to look for to help you on your way. The first patterns and heavy duty fabrics. Perhaps the best test of upholstered thing to check is how the furniture furniture, however, is to sit on it and is put together underneath. So, look bounce up and down a little. Do you underneath pieces of furniture to make sure it is screwed, and/or dow- bottom out (hit the frame or floor)? eled and glued together with mitered Can three people sit on a sofa without it sagging to its limits? And finally, or best, mortise and tenon, or with is it comfortable, well proportioned? dovetail joints (these are where the Though such harsh tests may make two pieces of wood are fitted together it seem like finding quality furniture with interlocking teeth.) is an impossible task, there are actuThe second thing to check for is ally a good number of major furniture the use of hardwoods. Buy a cheap manufacturers providing quality living, chest of drawers and what youll dining, bedroom and occasional furnifind is composite materials boards ture. Your local department, furniture made up of a combination of woodand specialty stores carry well-known chips, sawdust and glue often brand names and many names you straight nailed or even stapled may not have heard of but which are together at butt joints covered by some sort of laminate or paper or plastic finish. Drawers run on plastic strips that are either glued or shallow riveted into the soft material and they, too, are put together with staples and glue. This is a piece of furniture that, unless youre using it for throwaway storage in a childs room, is guaranteed to fall apart through normal use and be a constant annoyance until you set it out for the trash. A used chest of drawers, even if it needs refinishing or repair, be it made out of cherry, oak, maple or even pine, put together with screws and dovetail joints, has the advantage of being sturdier than the one you buy in the bargain basement. And, if it does fail, using the same techniques by which it was made can repair it. Re-fit or reglue the dovetails, refill, re-drill and replace worn screws, refinish a damaged surface and it will be ready for another lifetime of use. If youre on a budget, many of the unfinished furniture stores in your area offer quality construction of simple pieces at bargain prices. high quality nonetheless. You can even find well-constructed furniture at area antique shops and flea markets. The keys to acquiring good furniture are to avoid quick decisions, seek the best quality that you can afford and, if its a great piece but you hate the fabric, remember that you can always have it reupholstered or buy a slipcover. Finally, dont forget to apply the same standards to outdoor furniture. Buy cast iron or quality steel or weatherproof woods like redwood and teak which adhere to the same construction standards as you expect for your indoor furniture. Look for screws and bolts, not rivets and staples; look for classic comfort, weight and solidity, not flashy colors and complicated styles. Particularly with outdoor furniture, this doesnt mean it has to be expensive. Classic styles like the Adirondack chair come, well made, in wide price ranges. Even old fashioned cast iron and heavy steel chairs and tables are more comfortable and will last longer than the flimsy plastic and base metal pastel constructions that you see everywhere. With proper care, good outdoor furniture should last at least as long as indoor furniture and, particularly with woods like teak and redwood, gather the patina of time which imparts an elegance that no amount of money can replace.

For Buying Furniture:

Shop around. Buy the best you can afford. Think of furniture as an investment. Look underneath for signs of quality construction. Check for use of hardwoods, not composite materials. For upholstered furniture, look for hardwood frames with ample cushions made of down or other high quality material attached properly to the frame. Test furniture by bouncing up and down on it a little. If its not comfortable, dont buy it. If you find a great piece but you dont like the fabric, remember that it can always be reupholstered. Apply similarly high standards to outdoor furniture.

3609 Richland Ave. W Aiken, SC 649-3409

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How to choose a pharmacist

Medications are like an investment in your health, and you want to make sure you are getting the right return. As you hand over your prescription, a pharmacist literally has your life in his hands. If you receive an incorrect medication, you could suffer serious harm or even death. It is not uncommon for a person to spend a lot of time searching for the right doctor. Choosing a pharmacist is equally important. a pharmacy that keeps track of the latest drug interactions and how they may affect you. And speaking of location, with Medical Center Pharmacy, we are as close as your front door with our citywide delivery service.

Q: What should I expect from a good pharmacist?

Beyond simple courtesy and accuracy in filling your prescriptions, the main thing a good pharmacist provides is information. Your pharmacist should be willing and able to answer any and all questions you may have about a prescription names, uses, how the prescription should be taken, possible side effects and precautions. Once you get to know your pharmacist, he can offer personal advice based on the knowledge of your particular health concerns. He should also help you select over-the-counter medications that wont interfere with your prescription medication and treatment plans.

Q: What factors do I need to consider when choosing a pharmacy?

Of course everyone considers location. A pharmacy that is closer to your home is sometimes better than one further away, but there are things you should consider that might outweigh the distance you have to drive. You want your prescriptions filled quickly and accurately. Prescriptions should be ready when they are promised. You shouldnt have to wait too long for service. You want to be comfortable with the pharmacists and staff. At Medical Center Pharmacy our staff has been well trained to assist the pharmacists. You want

ter Pharmacy we are able to keep competitive cash prices while still managing personal service without the crowds. It is unfortunate for those forced by insurance companies to use mail-order pharmacies. They are unable to form a relationship with the pharmacy, or even in most circumstances to even talk with a licensed pharmacist on the phone, and the drugs are delivered under adverse extremes of temperature, humidity and vibration.

Q: What kind of certification do I look for in a pharmacist?

Q: What about prices?

Insurance co-pays are the same at all pharmacies, and at Medical Cen-

Of course, you want a pharmacist who has completed an accredited pharmacy school and has passed your state Board of Pharmacy exam. Medical Center Pharmacys pharmacist and owner received a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Wofford College before entering pharmacy school at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. He opened Medical Center Pharmacy 25 years ago and 4 years later joined the Professional Compounding Center of America and recently expanded his lab into a state-of-the-art compounding lab. He has been named Pharmacist-of-the-Month by the ProYour pharmacists job is to watch fessional Compounding Center of out for possible conflicts between America and is currently serving on medications, both prescriptions and a State of South Carolina task force over-the-counter. To be able to do to update the rules and regulations of this, he/she needs to know about you pharmacy compounding. The expeand your family and the medications rienced staff pharmacists, certified you take. The only way to do this is technicians and friendly clerks all aim to go to the same pharmacy regularly. to make you feel like the most important person in the store!

Q: Why is it important to stay with one pharmacy for all your prescription and non-prescription needs?

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How to choose a home improvement company

Home Improvement
should be filled with useful, user friendly compartments, whether that be standard adjustable shelves, spice pull-outs, storage for odd sized cookware or message centers on that last wall cabinet leading out to the garage. When designing the cabinet over the refrigerator, it would be best to deepen the cabinet to the 24 depth. Allowing the wall cabinet over a refrigerator to remain at the 12 depth tempts the user to fill the top of the refrigerator with stuff that prevents easy access to the storage compartment. A final step in designing the refrigerator cabinet to be user friendly is to add a pull-out in the compartment. This allows the user to pluck items from the fully extended pull-out rather than having to remove half the items to reach that one item that is otherwise out of reach. The installation of light rail along the bottom of the wall cabinets give the look of the cabinets that extra touch of class. When designing a bathroom remodel, lets face it, its very expensive. You only want to do it once and do it right. Consider long range plans and try to think further into the future than you might otherwise. This may prevent you having to alter or re-do the remodel if your life style or health needs change. Creating a barrier free or curb-less shower may be the best way to go. Latticrete produces an epoxy grout that has proven to be the best method for grouting bathroom tile that I have found. It is more expensive than standard sanded grout but for a couple hundred dollars its cheap insurance against water rot. As sanded grout wicks in the water and as it does it brings that moisture in areas you really dont want it to be in. Not only that but every time you mop your floor, the dirty water from the mop bucket gets drawn down into the grout. This doesnt happen with epoxy grout. Standard grout cracks and chips with the slightest movement in the floor or walls, epoxy grout is more resilient and forgiving. Doors can be a problem in small spaces and many times I find a small bathroom has a hinged door swinging into the bathroom in close proximity to a linen closet door with the two doors being in conflict with one another. Internal pocket doors are available but not always possible, due to obstacles within the wall framing, external pocket doors may be one alternative or a 180 degree bi-fold door may be the best solution. The longer a remodeled bathroom endures and continues to serve your needs, without alteration, the more valuable the investment. A well thought out design helps ensure a good investment. There are usually one or more alternatives to any given challenge. The secret is to find the best solution that fits the style and budget of the user. Nothing can replace a well thought out plan in anything we do.

wall structure should be covered with a complete water drainage plain as in all cases. House wrap is used for this The subject of a how to guide condrainage plain. The windows nailing cerning home improvements is an exhaustive subject indeed. I will touch flange should be sealed to the house on a few areas that may be of interest wrap with the use of window flashing and helpful for the do it yourselfer. As tape, which is similar to an ice and water shield; which is a petroleum a design/build remodeling contracbased sticky tape with a protective tor, a good structural design simply cant be over emphasized even to the aluminum or vinyl veneer bonded smallest detail and isnt limited to the to the exterior side of the tape. This method protects the vulnerable plyvisible aspects of a job. Some of the best design concepts are in the things wood structure from the small amount of water that may seep behind the not seen. siding by way of the j-channel. In Roofing Issues: order to direct this water to the outOne of the most important details side of the siding, a flashing detail is of a good quality roofing job is the needed at both bottom corners of the flashing detail. There are basically 2 window that overlaps the nailing hem common forms of flashing used, one of the nearest row of siding; thereby method being whats called continuous flashing, the second option being directing the water to the exterior of the siding, as each row of siding step flashing. The latter being the has drainage holes along the bottom best option of the two. Continuous edge. flashing doesnt completely protect the structure from water infiltration and is usually chosen as the easier method and usually by roofers that When creating a new kitchen dont fully understand how mechanidesign, there are some simple princal flashings really work. Step flashciples that go a long way to create a ing, properly installed, directs water WOW factor without blowing the budaway from the structure and out to get. Base corner cabinets with breakdaylight with each row of shingles. away doors are a must compared to When re-roofing, a common practice the optional blind corner cabinet. The is to leave the original flashing in corner cabinet can have shelves or place and insert the new shingles in a lazy susan option. Designing wall between the flashing layers. This is not advisable. This concept leaves cabinet layouts with various heights the structure vulnerable to a leak and depths create interest within the and the roofing contractor vulnerdesign. Every inch of the kitchen able to a callback. A more thorough method is to remove the old flashing and take control of the situation by ensuring each row of shingles has its own step flashing properly installed. Many times I find even step flashing is flawed by a thoughtless roofer installing a nail through the horizontal surface of the flashing in the lower 5 of the flashing. Step flashing should never be nailed in the lower 5 of the flashing but rather in the vertical section of the flashing. In cases where this is impossible, then the nail should be above the lower 5 area so that the nail is protected by the next row of flashing.

Kitchen Ideas

Bathroom ideas

Many times, I have been called to repair a rotten wall structure, only to find the cause to be, once again, a failure to design a good thorough flashing detail. If vinyl siding is used around a window; first, the plywood

Vinyl Siding

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How to get the most mileage from your tires

Tire Wear
concrete and asphalt. Theres no feedback on how these tires might corner or handle hydroplaning. The temperature tests lead to a ratTires are tires, right? You go out, ing of A (highest), B, or C. C is the level get the right ones for your vehicle, and all tires must meet as per the Federal thats it, right? If you own a vehicle you Motor vehicle Safety Standard. Overshould know, things are seldom that or under-inflation, excessive speed, or simple. Its not enough to buy the right tires (which could be tricky in itself), but overloading of the vehicle can separately or in combination lead to dangerous those tires must also be taken care of: temperature levels. for the passengers safety and to proThere are other numbers too, you long the life of the vehicle. know. For starters, did you know you have Again, your owners manual should to break in your tires? Tires are comadvise you about what size is best for plicated, made up of layers of rubber, your vehicle. So, say you drive a 1998 steel and fabric. These layers wont Honda Civic Sedan DX. The recombe truly working together until the tires mended tire would read 185/65-14. 185 have been used a while. Additionally, refers to the tires section width in cenwhen in the factory, theyre coated timeters. 65 represents the tires aspect with a lubricant to make them easier ration: the ratio of sidewall height to to remove from their mold. This coattread width. 14 indicates the wheel/rim ing, which isnt removed at the factory, size. reduces traction. To remove that coatWhat else leads to tire wear? ing, and to get those various layers Incorrect tire pressure (too much interacting with each other, drive carefully for the first 500 miles or so. Corner or too little air) is a leading cause of smoothly, and go as light as possible on premature tread wear. Purchasing the braking and acceleration. Youll give valve stems when you buy your tires the tires a chance to warm up until they is a great investment. Be aware that can operate at their maximum capacity. the stems wear out too, and may need For that matter, do you know what those abbreviations and numbers on your tires mean? How often should you get them rotated, and why? What are the signs that your tires are wearing down or losing tread unevenly? Do you understand the Federal Government Uniform Tire Quality Grading Standards (aka: UTQG)? What are the UTQG standards? First, these standards apply to regular, everyday tires for passenger cars. Snow tires, as well as that temporary spare you may have gotten with your car, and any kind of deep tread tires are excluded from this rating system. As such, your everyday tires are government rated (or graded) for the three Ts: Tread wear, traction, and temperature. The grades are marked on the tire itself. For instance, the tread wear valuation might read 150, which would indicate that it would wear one-and-a-half times better than a tire rated 100. These ratings are relative figures and your driving circumstances may vary widely from the governments testing ground. Possible variables include the terrain, as well as, the drivers own personal style. Some drivers are, after all, harder on their cars than others. As regards traction, there are four grades from best to worst: AA, A, B, and C. However, the government tests only for straight-ahead braking on wet replacement before the tires do. Read your owners manual for the manufacturers recommendation for tire pressure readings. Seasonal changes. A ten-degree shift can result in a one-pound gain/loss in pressure. Cold weather decreases pressure; warmer air increases it. Be on the safe side and buy your own air pressure gauge. The one at your local garage is used throughout the day and may not be as reliable. Tire tread should read at least 2/32 in each groove. If that isnt the case, that could mean your tire pressure is wrong, so check this first. Purchase similar tires. When buying tires, buy four at a time to insure stability in handling, if you can do this. This issue is especially important with fourwheel and all-wheel vehicles. Rotate tires regularly and often to cut down on uneven wear and prolong the life of your tires overall. If you have further questions ask your favorite mechanic or a well-informed clerk at your local auto supply store. The better informed you are about maintaining your vehicle, the safer youll be.

Things to Remember To Prolong the Life of Your Tires:

Consult your owners manual to find the right size for your tire. Try to purchase all four tires at once. Tires should be broken in initially. Check your tire pressure often. Rotate your tires regularly. Note your own driving habits and environment and understand how they may affect your tires wear.

Tyler Tire and Auto

1019 Richland Avenue Aiken, SC 803-648-7201 1518 Whiskey Road Aiken, SC 803-642-0704

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It has been our familys pleasure to serve the Aiken community for over 45 years. Our philosophy has always been to treat our customers the way we would like to be treated. Thank you for your continued support.

Authorized Michelin Dealer for Over 30 Years

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AS07-549173

1019 Richland Ave., W Aiken, SC 29801 803-648-7201

1518 Whiskey Rd. Aiken, SC 29803 803-642-0704

How to choose a plumber and electrician

When it comes to the comfort of your home, the plumbing and electrical lines behind your walls are often taken for granted that is, until something goes wrong. Electrical and plumbing problems can range from merely annoying to downright dangerous, which is why its critical that you choose the right company to work on them. You want to find a plumber and electrician who can do the job right the first time, ensuring both your property value and your familys safety will be protected for years to come. But how do you know what too look for in a good plumber or electrician? Here are some things to consider.

Warranty

Many plumbers and electricians will offer a warranty on their work if there are any problems down the road. Find out exactly what kind of guaranty they offer on their services, because you dont want to be stuck with another big bill months from now if the job wasnt done correctly the first time. This is important with any kind of work on your home, but especially so with plumbing and electricity because its more difficult to fix things behind walls or under your foundation. You dont want to pay for replacing walls or cement work a second time.

Reputation

Price

The best plumbers and electricians will always have a great reputation in your community, and thats often the best way to choose one. You want a professional with a long history of happy customers in your area. You can start by asking your family and friends what kind of experience they had with different companies in the past. Theyre usually happy to tell you who they recommend and who to avoid. But you can also get reliable information from other places, too. If you know any real estate agents, talk to them about who they recommend for doing work in your area. Theyre likely to have experience finding plumbers and electricians to do work at the properties they have listed. You could also try calling a builder or contractor in your area to see who they recommend. Many plumbers to work on new construction in addition to repairs in existing homes, so contractors can steer you toward the best professionals that they work with every day.

Obviously, price is an important consideration for anyone, but be careful not to pick a plumber or electrician based on price alone. Its always possible that the cheapest person will be well-qualified for the job, but thats rarely the case. There are far too many unqualified or unlicensed people who will low-ball job offers because they need work. There are also people who will offer a cheap price to get in the door, then ask you to pay for add-on costs and fees that should have been anticipated up front.

Insurance

Qualifications

Always ask for your plumber or electricians license number. Ideally, you should verify that their license is valid in your state and find any information you can about their background. What kind of training do they have? How long have they been in business? Steer clear from people who arent upfront about their qualifications.

Finally, its critical that you find plumbers and electricians who carry valid insurance policies in case theres an accident on your property. If a person is working at your home without their own insurance, its possible that you or your insurance company would be responsible for paying for any accidents that happen on the job. This can be extremely expensive in the worst cases, so doing your homework up front including checking with their insurance company to be sure the policy is in force will give you some peace of mind. In the end, if you can find a plumber or electrician with a great reputation, the right qualifications, a solid warranty and appropriate insurance coverage, you should be in good shape. It will be even better if you can find this person ahead of time, before you need them in an emergency.

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How to choose a company to replace your gutters and windows

We at Enloe know replacing old gutters and windows could seem like a daunting task. You want to find a company that offers both high-quality materials and professional installation services. Lets talk about some things you need to consider when purchasing new gutters or windows. Durability is paramount when deciding on gutters. Home owners dont want to be changing gutters every couple of years, so you need to find a reputable company that can teach you about all the different options including the drawbacks of each one. It is also helpful to know the maintenance your gutters will need. Does cleaning it regularly make a difference? How long will that take? What about peripherals like gutter screens and louvers? Enloe recommends K-Guard, a full size gutter system that is leak-proof, leaf-proof and pine straw-proof. No other leaf gutter guards can offer the protection, strength, durability, capacity and attractiveness of K-Guard gutter covers. Enloe offers a life-time guarantee that your K-Guard gutters will never need cleaning. Cleaning gutters will never be a part of your life! While durability is more a concern for gutters, windows can vary from cheap but useful to ridiculously expensive but trendy. Window types could also make a difference in beatifying your home. There are gliding windows if your wall allows for it; casement windows; and perhaps the double-hung windows might be nice for your upstairs rooms. Energy efficiency is also a primary concern when picking new windows. So, how should you choose a company to replace your gutters and windows? Check the different Web sites of those companies that are in your area. You can also look for listings in newspapers and ask the companies to give you a quote, preferably with several different options for you to pick from. From there you can have a better idea of the products that are available and how they fit your needs and budget. Be sure to ask about any discounts that are available now, including tax credits for installing energy efficient windows. Check for installation options, too, which might make a difference in pricing. While some companies can offer you dirt-cheap products, installation might be where they make their money, so youve got to factor in the entire cost. Be sure to call the contractors. If they have friendly and knowledgeable staff, then its a great sign about the kind of service you can expect as their customer. You should also get a list of references, although its even better to get first-person information from your friends and neighbors who might have used this company in the past. You can also try to get a few addresses of homes where the company has performed work in the past, then drive by to see if you like how the finished product looks. Finally, do the nitty-gritty background work. It can sometimes help to call your local Better Business Bureau to see if a company is licensed and qualified to do work in your community. They might be able to steer you toward companies with a good record. And, as with anyone who does work on your house, make sure every person who will be on your property has the right qualifications and insurance. If theyre not insured, you could be financially responsible for any accidents that occur on your property, which could end up making the project more expensive than you ever imagined. In the end, there are a lot of good companies that install gutters and windows. You should pick one like Enloe that has good references, a long-term reputation for quality, and proof of insurance coverage, that will go a long way toward adding value, comfort and convenience to your home.

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How to choose the right care facility

Choosing a Skilled Nursing Center
Helping a loved one select a skilled nursing center can be difficult and difficult decisions take time. At Pepper Hill Nursing and Rehab Center we take the time to listen, counsel and give support whenever you need us. Skilled Nursing Centers provide a wide range of services, equipped to handle all aspects of healthcare. When making the decision to place a loved one in a nursing center consider these tips: Always tour the center, ask specific questions that involve your loved one and the type of care appropriate for them * Find a center close to home so family and friends can visit often and easily, talk to administrators and nursing staff to get a feel for what their philosophies are about caring for your loved one Discuss with staff the financial concerns you may have. Most centers are happy to assist you with these decisions and the how to of financial planning. You may also ask for specifics on staffing, an activity calendar, meals and amenities such as a beauty shop, cable and telephone. Do you feel a caring atmosphere in the center? Does the staff speak to residents in the hallway? Do they know the residents names? Most important in the decision making process is not to wait until you are in a crisis. Start looking at centers prior to crisis. Know where you feel comfortable before you must make a decision. Decisions made during a crisis are much more difficult. If you have an aging loved one, begin to explore your options. Remember a difficult decision can take time.

Choosing An Assisted Living Community

Many loved ones do not understand the differences in local health care options. The assisted living community can provide an array of services for a senior member of your family. Assisted Living communities provide residents with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and medication management. Three meals per day are prepared along with full time housekeeping and maintenance. Residents participate in daily activities and have 24 hour care from trained staff members. Transportation to doctors appointments may also be provided. When choosing an assisted living thats right for your loved one remember these simple tips: Always tour the community, meet with staff, have lunch and invite your loved one to visit with you. This involvement will make the transition from home much easier. * Involve your loved one in planning the move, select what furniture to bring, purchasing a new door decoration and other special personal items. Remember that your first impression is usually correct. Does the staff seem friendly? Do residents seem pleased with the care and their surroundings? Is the community clean? Are activities posted? All of these suggestions will help you and your loved one choose the right community to meet each of your needs. Call Shadow Oaks Assisted Living at 803-643-0300 to schedule a tour.

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How to choose a coin store

Would you like to learn more about coin collecting? Cleins Rare Coins proprietor, Wayne Damron has 49 years experience in the rare coin business. He is sharing his knowledge about buying and selling coins. He also teaches ways to avoid counterfeit coins. Mr. Damron has given hundreds of lectures and speeches to those interested in coin collecting as a hobby or an investment. His classes, workshops and seminars can be tailored to any age group. I can tailor the class to fit the needs of the group involved from the advanced collector down to the beginner. Mr. Damron says that with coin collecting rebounding from a low in the early 90s to a solid growth rate of 15% annually since 2001. Many young people are now entering this fascinating and educational field. Mr. Damron believes that everyone needs to have their coins graded to find out what they are worth. The higher the grade the more coins are worth. People are sometimes very surprised when they have their coins graded. For example, a 1909-S VDB penny was worth $70 forty years ago. Today its worth $650. Mr. Damron advises that anyone who has coins from the branch mints needs to have them graded due to the fact that thats where many of the rare coins were minted. If you are starting a coin collection, Mr. Damron advises you to invest in research books to aid in coin education. This could be the Red Book, Blue Book or the Coin World magazine. Mr. Damron insists that a research library like his is not necessary however a new collector needs some basic written material to fall back on. The education you gain from the study of coin collecting will build a good foundation for your new hobby or investment. Books are available on most any topic of coin collecting or Numismatics as it is more formally known. Knowledge is how we tell the difference between a rare coin and one that is common. If you have inherited a coin collection, only use a experienced appraiser. Mr. Damron also advises that you keep the collection intact and that you shouldnt clean the coins. Cleaning a rare coin robs it of its natural patina and strips most of its worth. Unfortunately, I hear it all too often, Mr. Damron said. The owner of a collection dies and three children inherit a collection. They have 30 silver dollars so they take 10 coins each. But the coins may vary greatly in value and often one sibling profits much more than the others. Mr. Damron prides himself in his precise appraisals, although he will be the first to tell you that appraisals are a subjective science.

Dont assume that all old coins will be in very poor condition. Store in a safe place. Decide what you want to collect. Ask friends and relatives if they have old change. Check with your local bank of financial institution. Expand your collection by going to coin expos. Understand grading of coins. Note that the US grading system also has trouble with grading hammered coins. Coins can be a good investment. Attend classes about coins. Learn about investment grave coins, grading, counterfeit detection.

Wayne Damron owner of Cleins Rare Coins.

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It takes years of dedication and hard work in order to earn the right to be the #1 Choice in the CSRA for buying or selling collectible coins and currency.

Since 1941

(706) 722-9945

Buying Large and Small Collections of Coins and Currency.

Now would be the perfect time to bring your coin/currency collections to CLEINS and turn them into CASH !
1255 Telfair St. (Corner of 13th St. & Telfair) Augusta, GA 30901 Tues. - Fri. 10:30AM-4:00PM, Saturday 9:30AM-1:00PM Wayne Damron, Life Member A.N.A.

Call for Appointments 706-722-9945

AS12-553071

June 26, 2011

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How To Subscribe To The Aiken Standard

ONLINE aikenstandard.com CALLING IN
Step 1 - Call 803-648-2311. Step 2 - Let our friendly customer service representatives know that you would like to start a new subscription. Step 1 - Visit our web site at www.aikenstandard.com Step 2 - In the right hand side of our web page, look for the tab Contact Us Click on Subscribe. Step 3 - Complete all of the subscriber information. Step 4 - Click the button Send to Circulation Dept. you should receive a response from the circulation department within 24 hours.

The Aiken Standard provides several types of delivery options to meet the needs of our subscribers. Our delivery options and payment terms are below:
7-day delivery: 3 months: $39.00 6 months: $76.50 12 months: $151.00

Best Value: EZ Pay automatic billing for $12.50 per month* 3-day delivery: Friday, Saturday and Sunday 3 months: $28.05 6 months: $56.10 12 months: $109.20 Best Value: EZ Pay automatic billing for $9.10 per month 2-day delivery: Saturday and Sunday 3 months: $28.50 6 months: $57.00 12 months: $111.00

Best Value: EZ Pay automatic billing for $9.25 per month Sunday plus delivery: Every Sunday plus 24 days throughout the year, including Thanksgiving and Christmas. 3 months: $26.25 6 months: $52.50 12 months: $102.00 Best Value: EZ Pay automatic billing for $8.50 per month
*Slightly higher rates for county routes.

Payment options For your convenience the Aiken Standard accepts, Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express.
All pricing and terms are subject to change. Please be sure to ask for current pricing when placing your order.

26 June 26, 2011

How to choose a HVAC company

risk is all on the homeowner. Does the company have continued training for their employees? What are their usual turnaround times? Youll also want to ask if the comMost people take for granted the pany has insurance and is bonded comfort provided by their central air for accidents that are sure to occur conditioner, heat pump or furnace from time to time. This will save you until something goes wrong and the unit needs to be serviced or replaced. from having to file a claim on your homeowners insurance, should any When this happens, you need a mishaps occur and cause damage quality heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) contractor who is to your valuable property during the installation. knowledgeable, skilled and qualified If an HVAC company is a quality to do the job. business, they will probably have membership in a reputable professional organization. If the company youre considering has NATE certified Complies with state and local codes and regulations and carries the trained employees, verify it is not just one employee but has multiple certiproper business and workers comfied technicians. If they do belong to pensation insurance. an organization and have NATE certi Is prompt, courteous and provides fied employees, then it shows that fast, reliable service while attempting they really know their business. Its also very important to ask the to perform service at your convecompany if they have an emergency nience. after- hours-on-call program. Most companies say they offer something Has the skill and knowledge to like this, but do they? You should call not only service your equipment, but if necessary, to design and install the and test their response time. Did they call you back in a timely fashion? Its right system for you. definitely something you should be Is up to date on the newest devel- sure to check out. A summer weekend with a broken air-conditioner can opments in equipment, technology last a very long time. and design procedures in order to choose and install a system which will be the most efficient and most reliable system for you.

Choosing the Right Contractor

A Quality Contractor:

Be sure to check whether they get the proper permits. This can save you a lot of headaches. Something else that can save you from those excruciating aches of the noggin is a load calculation. Its a good idea for the company youre considering to perform a load calculation (energy audit) before installing any new systems in your home. There are HVAC companies that simply use a rule of thumb to size the necessary equipment and even companies that just install the same size of equipment as the last equipment you had installed. These methods can cause unnecessary problems for you. You dont know if a load calculation was ever done when the first system was installed, and the home has probably changed since then anyway. A system thats to big will cause big problems and be inefficient, and a system thats too small wont ever be able to satisfy the larger load. When you have the system that perfectly fits your needs, you will save money and be much happier. Follow this advice and youll find a HVAC company that will save you some money and leave you satisfied with their work. Remember, the most important day of any new system is the day it was installed.

Here are some more suggestions for saving energy on heating & cooling:
Place heat-resistant radiator reflectors between exterior walls and the radiators. Bleed trapped air from hotwater radiators once or twice a season; if in doubt about how to perform this task, call a professional. Clean warm-air registers, baseboard heaters, and radiators as needed; make sure theyre not blocked by furniture, carpeting, or drapes. Use fans during the summer to create a wind chill effect that will make your home more comfortable. If you use air conditioning, a ceiling fan will allow you to raise the thermostat setting about 4 degrees F with no reduction in comfort. Turn off kitchen, bath and other ventilating fans within 20 minutes after you are done cooking or bathing to retain heated air. Insulate your hot water heater and hot water pipes to prevent heat loss. Heating can account for almost half of the average familys winter energy bill. Make sure your furnace or heat pump receives professional maintenance each year. Look for the ENERGY STAR label when replacing your system. Please call MrCentral.com today to discuss ways to save substantial amounts of money on your annual cooling and heating costs! 1-866-FIXED-RIGHT (866-349-3374) or (803) 642-3779

A heating, ventilating and air conditioning system is designed to suit your needs. Your contractor selects each part of the system individually so that everything works at top efficiency to provide the comfort you need. All the system components are matched-the furnace, the condensing unit, fans and blowers, air conditioning coil, the duct work to produce a heating and cooling system that will work best for you. As with researching any sort of company, you will want to check with the Better Business Bureau. While youre at it, be sure to check with your states board of contractors. You can also check the local mechanical inspection office to be really thorough. You want to make sure any company you use is reputable, as some unfortunately arent. Ask the tough questions. What are the companys warranties? Do they have a money back guarantee with no fine print? If they dont then the

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