Archive for the ‘Uncategorized’ Category
Tuesday, September 6th, 2011
Unless you are extremely familiar with the flooring industry, you probably know little (if anything) about Polyaspartic coating. What is it used for? What are its advantages? And most importantly, what is it?
By definition, a polyaspartic is an aliphatic polyurea because it is the reaction of an aliphatic polyisocyanate with a polyaspartic ester – which is an aliphatic diamine. However, polyaspartic coatings are very different in both application and coating performance properties from conventional polyureas.
First introduced in the early 1990s, polyaspartic flooring has become increasingly popular in the flooring industry. This fast-curing floor coating is perfect for garages as it is both abrasion and corrosion resistant and will not yellow.
So if you think your garage could benefit from polyaspartic coating, call TLC Garage Works today to learn more.
Whatever you need, whether it’s a complete garage make-over, or just a new garage floor, better garage storage organization, new garage cabinets or garage shelving, TLC Garage Works, Inc has the right organization solution for you.
If you have any questions, want an estimate, ore need to schedule an appointment, contact TLC Garage Works by calling 888-742-5852 or click here today!
Make sure to check us out on Facebook and Twitter as well!
Sources:
What is Polyaspartic Coating Technology? ConcreteIdeas.com
Tags: abrasion resistant, corrosion-resistant, estimate, fast-curing floor coating, Floor Coating, flooring industry, garage, garage cabinets, garage make-over, Garage shelving, garage storage, garages, new garage floor, organization solution, polyaspartic, Polyaspartic Coating, Polyaspartic Coating Technology?, polyaspartic coatings, polyaspartic flooring, schedule an appointment, TLC Garage Works, What is Polyaspartic, What is Polyaspartic Coating Technology, will not yellow
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Monday, August 29th, 2011
The garage is often forgotten and ignored in most homes, left to slowly decay.
While your garage is low-maintenance, it is by no means no-maintenance. It does not take much to ensure that your garage stays in tip-top shape. A little preventative maintenance can go a long way. So how can you better preserve your garage?
This article from HouseLogic.com explains. It provides 5 tips for maintaining your garage.
- Keep your garage door running smoothly: You need to annually oil older garage doors. While most newer doors come self-lubricated or with plastic parts that need no oil, older doors, with their metal rollers, hinges and tracks, require annual care. You should also remember to check the rubber seal on the bottom of your garage door. It can slowly deteriorate over time, allowing the elements to seep under your door. Replacing the seal costs less than $100. It is also a good idea to regularly check the garage door sensors to make sure they will stop the door from closing if something is in the way.
- Clean your garage floor: You should annually hose down your garage floor to prevent slip hazards, stains and pockmarks caused byu road salts and auto fluids. If your floor has a crack, you can try a do-it-yourself patch with a $5 concrete mix from your local hardware store. But patched concrete often doesn’t adhere to the original slab. If this is the case, consult a licensed concrete contractor. Replacing the slab should cost about $5 per square foot.
- Monitor your garage walls and foundation: Inspect your interior and exterior walls, as well as your foundation, at least twice a year for moisture and cracks. If you find any problems, consult a professional contractor as soon as possible.
- Clean interior doors and gutters: Clean and inspect the interior door once a year and make sure it is properly weatherstripped and that the threshold seal fits snuggly against the bottom of the door.
If your garage has gutters, clean them every spring and fall and inspect them for damage.
- Watch for pest invasions: Termits and carpenter ants can wreak havoc on your garage walls. Inspect dark, cool, and moist spots, especially where garage walls meet the foundation, for borings from carpenter ants or termites.
If you follow these simple steps, you can ensure that your garage remains in tip-top shape for a very long time.
If you have any questions, contact TLC Garage Works by calling 888-742-5852 or click here today!
Make sure to check us out on Facebook and Twitter as well!
Tags: 5 Tips for Maintaining Your Garage, annual care, annually oil older garage doors, Clean your garage floor, do it yourself, do-it-yourself patch, foundation, garage, garage door, garage door sensors, garage doors, garage floor, garage walls, hinges, Low maintenance, Maintaining Your Garage, oil older garage doors, preserve your garage, preventative maintenance, professional contractor, rollers, rubber seal, self-lubricated, TLC Garage, TLC Garage Works, tracks, weatherstripped
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Monday, August 22nd, 2011
If you are like most people, you have no idea what a polyaspartic floor coating is. Well, you’re in luck, because we do. And as this article from ConcreteNetwork.com explains, a polyaspartic is a type of polyurea.
That probably doesn’t help too much either, right? So…
The Texaco Chemical Company developed polyurea in the 1980s as a commercially viable material. Polyureas are two-part systems, meaning that a resin has to be mixed with a catalyst to harden the material. Once hardened, polyurea makes a very successful corrosion and stain-resistant coating for floors (perfect for the garage).
Application, however, is a fairly difficult process. The pot life of polyurea is approximately 3 seconds, so the resin and catalyst must be mixed at the spray tip, requiring lots of maintenance on expensive high-pressure equipment.
For most of us, the important thing to understand is that polyaspartics are a polymer coating material that has the following characteristics:
• Rapid curing (from 5 to 120 minutes, depending on the formulation)
• Can be successfully applied at surface temperatures from -30°F to 140°F
• Very low viscosity—equivalent to water—which gives it outstanding wetting ability on a properly prepared concrete floor
• High film build (up to 18 mils in a single coat)
• Bubble-free surfaces even at high humidity (although high humidity can speed up the cure time considerably)
• Potlife of 5 to 120 minutes
• UV stable so it will never turn yellow—and can provide UV protection to underlying coatings
• Made with a high solids content (as high as 100%), which means low or no volatile organics (VOCs) during application
• The cured coating can handle temperatures up to 350°F
• Crystal clear and does not blush white from moisture in the concrete
• Able to resist most stains, especially from oils and fats and even from red wine
• High abrasion resistance—higher than epoxy or urethane
• May be able to resist higher internal moisture vapor emission rates than some other non-breathing coatings—although this is an issue that is currently being investigated
If you have any questions, contact TLC Garage Works by calling 888-742-5852 or click here today!
Make sure to check us out on Facebook and Twitter as well!
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Monday, August 15th, 2011
Basement remodeling can be a very rewarding, but very complex endeavor. And some of the most crucial aspects of remodeling happen well before you ever tough a tool. Of course, we are talking about design.
But how do you get started? This article from DIYLife.com outlines the process.
First identify your goal. Is your basement going to be a game room, man cave, home theater, or office? One way to narrow down your options is to brainstorm. Basically throw out ideas as they pop in your head. Then discuss what you have come up with. Once you have identified your “wants,” it is time to look at your budget and identify your “needs.”
Having a plan is essential to any successful remodel. Once you have identified a direction, it is time to apply for a building permit. You may be able to get a blanket permit, but in most areas at least the plumbing and electrical permits will be separate and will be inspected independently.
Once you have obtained all appropriate permits, it is time to get started.
You will be building and insulating walls, hanging drywall, choosing and installing flooring materials (carpet, hardwood, laminate, etc.), planning your power layout, adding plumbing, and choosing and installing a new ceiling.
Some of these taks can be completed by the average do-it-yourself remodeler, while others should be handled by a licensed contractor. If any of these aspects are too much for you to handle on your own, TLC Garage Works would be happy to help!
If you have any questions, contact TLC Garage Works by calling 888-742-5852 or click here today!
Make sure to check us out on Facebook and Twitter as well!
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Wednesday, August 10th, 2011
Space in a family’s home is always a valuable thing. Often the basement floor is an untapped resource for much needed areas. An unused basement can be transformed into a room for work or play. According to this article a basement remodel can be the easiest way for a growing family to increase the living space in their home.
The first question a homeowner should ask him/herself would be, “What am I going to use this space for?” The basement’s function will help dictate the details of the remodel and the look of the space. If the area will be used a place of relaxation, quiet tones and soft touches might be used, if it will become a kid’s play area than bold bright colors might be appropriate. An office might dictate more conservative planning. Also consider using part of your basement to create an extra bathroom. This can be difficult in some basements but homes with a septic system should work well.
Another factor to consider in concern to remodeling your basement is lighting. Many people are concerned that a basement is too dark and dank to be revamped into a fun space—this is not the case! An easy way to maximize light is to focus on the color schemes you are using. Neutral and pale colors can help brighten a space, so can pot lights because they have a wide distribution of light and are recessed into the ceiling. Track lighting can also be helpful when remodeling your basement space.
When deciding on your remodeled basement also think about if you would like to keep some space unfinished. As the article explains, sometimes it can be useful to keep part of your basement unfinished for storage and practical purposes.
Overall a basement remodel can improve your home and give it added value. If you are interested in a basement remodel for your growing family contact TLC Garage Works today!
Tags: basement, Basement Lighting, Basement Redecorating, Basement Remodel, Basement Transformation, club basement, Dc, diy basement, family basement, game room, Home, How to, Lighting, recessed lighting, reorganization, TLC Garage Works, TLC Incorporated, track lighting, Virginia, Washington DC
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Monday, August 1st, 2011
A basement renovation is a great way to add cost-effective, additional living space to your home. But before you try and tackle the project yourself or hire a proefssional, take a look at the 5 considerations you should make before any basement remodel, as provided by this article from HandyAmerican.com.
1. Consider Your Lifestyle: Think about how your family spends there time. Does it make more sense to build a home library or a home theater? Should you build a home gym or a game room? Your family’s lifestyle will dictate what type of room you should design. Whatever your reasoning, remodeling your basement is also a great way to add value to your home.
2. Consider How to Be More Open: Openness creates brightness. Add reinforced beams and remove any posts cutting through the room. An open room will be much better than a tiny dark basement.
3. Consider Keeping It Low Maintenance: You don’t want to create more work for yourself. From flooring to wall coverings and even bathroom fixtures, the maintenance level of your basement is entirely up to you.
4. Consider Opting for the Affordable: Your renovation doesn’t have to break the bank. Consider low cost options. Start by choosing what your family can’t live without and then look for affordable ways to deliver that.
5. Consider Hiring a Professional: Electrical and plumbing require a certified contractor and elements like flooring are very difficult for the average handyperson to tackle. You may also need to obtain permits and follow building codes.
While hiring a professional will cost more than doing the project yourself, it will be worth it. A professional will do the job the right way, according to code, and in a time-effective manner.
If you have any questions, contact TLC Garage Works by calling 888-742-5852 or click here today!
Make sure to check us out on Facebook and Twitter as well!
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Monday, July 25th, 2011
Do you need a little more living space in your home? Maybe you just had a new child or maybe you finally have a little extra money to tackle that remodeling job you have been dreaming of. Whatever your reasoning, this article from HandyAmerican.com can help. It provides the top five ideas for basement remodels.
- This is your remodel, so make the room what you need: Determine your family’s needs and design your new basement accordingly. You do not have to choose any one design. Maybe you could build a combination of several of the below options…
- Rec Room: A rec room is always a popular remodeling choice, providing open space for both adults and children to play. Have a plan for what type of activities will happen there and design the room accordingly. Maybe buy a pool table of set up an entertainment center. Rec rooms provide you with the flexibility to truly customize your experience.
- Home Theater: Going out to the movies can be expensive. Staying home and watching movies in your very own home theater can be exciting. See the difference? Think of a room that has no windows and consider a fabric-like finish on the walls to help with sound quality. Always account for speaker wires and extra cables, as well as plugs and devices around the room, giving you plenty of versatility when it comes to stereo placement and the setting up of your home theater room.
- Workshop: Every man needs a place to work. To achieve this, you will need plenty of storage, open space to spread out larger projects, wide doors for easy access, a workbench, and proper lighting.
- Additional Bedroom: If your family grew, you had a family member or friend move in, or if your children are just tired of sharing the same room, it may be time to consider building an additional bedroom.
Whatever your reasoning, remodeling your basement is a great way to add value to your home.
If you have any questions, contact TLC Garage Works by calling 888-742-5852 or click here today!
Make sure to check us out on Facebook and Twitter as well!
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Monday, July 18th, 2011
Garages have evolved over the years, becoming man caves, workshops and exercise rooms, but garage lighting has remained fairly un-evolved. While we rely on our garages for so much more than we used to, most garages still only come equipped with a single halogen bulb dangling in the center of the room. So what are you to do if you need more lighting?
This article from eHow.com explains, providing several tips to increase your garage lighting.
Placement
This is a pretty simple concept. Put the lights where you need them most. If your garage is going to act as your workshop, make sure to install extra lighting above your workbench (you may also want to consider installing light fixtures that have built-in electrical outlets so you can plug in electrical tools). If your garage is going to be more of an exercise room, make sure you illuminate your garage fully, as if it were any other room in the house.
All of this will increase your garages safety, functionality and aesthetic value.
Safety
Shadows are not good for safety reasons, so try and place your lights in areas that will not cast shadows over the rest of the room. It is also important to install lights at every entrance, both inside and outside of your garage. This will make it easier for you to get in and out, while making it harder for someone to break in without being noticed.
Bulb Type
For garages used mainly for vehicle and property storage, incandescent lighting typically is just fine, but you’ll want to use fluorescent lights if you do a lot of repairs or projects in the garage space.
If you would like to be more creative, TLC Garage Works Incorporated may have a better solution to fit your needs, so do not hesitate to call. If you have any questions, contact us by calling 888-742-5852 or click here today!
Make sure to check us out on Facebook and Twitter as well!
Tags: Aesthetic Value, Bulb, Bulb type, Electrical outlets, Electrical tools, Exercise Rooms, Flourescent, focused accent lights, Functionality, garage, Garage lighting, Garage Lighting Tips, garages, Halogen, Halogen bulb, House, Illuminate, Illuminate your garage, Incandescent, Increase your garage lighting, Increase your garages safety, Install Lights, Lighting, Lights, man caves, More Lighting, Need more Lighting, Outlets, Placement, Property Storage, Safety, Safety Reasons, Shadows, Tips, TLC Garage Works, Tools, Vehicle, Workbench, workshops
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Monday, July 11th, 2011
Garages are not designed to be the brightest room in your home. Most of them have a singular florescent light bulb dangling in the center of the room. If garages nowadays were still used to house our cars, this might be acceptable. But as garages continue to evolve, so to do their lighting needs.
Garages have become anything but storage rooms. People have begun transforming these dimly lit dungeons into all sorts of usable space, including: bedrooms, apartments, workout rooms, play rooms, and even man caves. One of the first areas to address when converting your garage for any of the before mentioned uses is lighting.
This article from eHow.com outlines the best way to light your garage (if you don’t plan on completely remodeling the area).
Fluorescent Lighting
The best ceiling lights for a two-stall garage are 8 foot fluorescent fixtures, one per vehicle space, according to the website Family Handyman. Four foot bulbs are recommended over 8 foot bulbs, which are more difficult to handle. Fluorescent lights should be chosen in accordance with the lowest temperature your garage is subjected to, as not all fluorescents work well in cold weather. Electronic ballasts, not electromagnetic, are best for temperatures down to 0 degrees Fahrenheit and lower. Energy-saver T12 lamps need a minimum temperature of 60 degrees Fahrenheit to properly operate.
Halogen Work Lights
Halogen work lights are available in a few different types: a floor model and one on an extendable stand generally with two lights. Floor models will sometimes be equipped with a hook with which to hang it. Halogen lights provide excellent light but do have a tendency to get very hot. This can be advantageous for work areas when painting or working with epoxy and, in colder weather, they serve a dual purpose in providing good quality work light and heat.
If you would like to be more creative, TLC Garage Works Incorporated may have a better solution to fit your needs, so do not hesitate to call. If you have any questions, contact us by calling 888-742-5852 or click here today!
Make sure to check us out on Facebook and Twitter as well!
Tags: apartments, bedrooms, Best Ways to light up your Garage, Brightest, Cars, Florescent Light Bulb, Fluorescent, Fluorescent fixtures, fluorescent lighting, Fluorescents, garage, Garage Works, garages, Halogen, Halogen Lights, Halogen Work Lights, Handyman, Home, Light, Light Bulb, Lighting, Lighting Needs, Lights, man caves, play rooms, Room, Storage Rooms, TLC Garage Works, TLC Garage Works Incorporated, work areas, Working, workout rooms
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Tuesday, July 5th, 2011
Garages have many uses. They can be home gyms, storage areas, man caves, workshops and rumor has it that they can even be used to house your car. No matter what you use your garage for, it can benefit from a little tender love and care. This article from re-nest.com provides nine green makeover tips for your garage that will have your home gym, storage area, man cave, or whatever room looking its best.
1. General Maintenance: Although we don’t “live” in our garage, it does need to be tidied regularly. If not for your own sanity the next time you have a project to do and can’t find your tools, but to make the rest of the cleaning process easier and more thorough. Clean the floors, sweep it out, wipe down shelves with a microfiber cloth (or some basic cleaning spray), replace light bulbs with eco-friendly options and sweep it one more time. It’s amazing how much dust one garage floor can really hold.
2. Cleaning The Floor: Although we just mentioned above that the floor should be swept… twice, it can still need a good mopping once in awhile. Before you hop on your mop and do the clean thing, try removing oil spills and stains on concrete (be it inside or out) with these helpful tips. If your garage floor is smooth, one of the best ways to clean it is to mop and then squeegee it back off. That way there’s no dusty streaks left when you’re done and there’s no dirty mop water to dip back into!
3. Sand Workbenches, Tables and Stools: You can always paint over surfaces that are getting a little grimy, but when those surfaces already exist in a work area, why not sand them down with a belt or orbital sander instead? When you’re finished, go over them with steel wool and a tack cloth to remove all dust and apply mineral or linseed oil to seal. You’ll be amazed what a clean workbench will inspire!
4. Sort Old Paint: Unless you’ve painted your home in the last few years, there’s a good chance that the paint sitting in your garage isn’t of the “green” variety. If you want to keep your colors, but are ready to upgrade, try painting a few chips of wood with what’s in the can and then taking the remaining paint to your local toxic waste disposal. Ditch the cans and keep the small blocks of wood. That way when you need a touch up, you have the exact color to take to the hardware store to pick up a fresh greener gallon. If you can still read the sticker on the paint with the chemical/color makeup, write it on the back of your piece of wood and it will help your paint person match things dead on.
5. Seal Windows: For those garages with windows, make sure to check around the seals to ensure they’re still keeping the cold air in and the warm air out. It’s a quick way to reduce your electric bills and keep those drafts out.
6. Close The Air Vents: For the most part, your garage will always stay warm enough to keep all air vents closed. For those living in particularly polar regions, you’ll obviously need to leave them open. For those in moderate climates, keeping your vents closed, even in the winter can reduce your electric usage tremendously. It means all the heat and air you’re generating are going to cool the parts of the home you use the most.
7. Reduce, Donate & Recycle: It’s easy to become inundated with extra bits of stuff in the garage. Make sure you sort it regularly to keep tools paired down, house items either in storage or in the donation bin and be sure to check for recycling options whenever possible.
8. Clean Hand Tools: A bucket of play sand will keep new tools clean, just submerge their heads below the sand for permanent storage. If your tools need some cleaning, try boiling water and a Magic Eraser to remove built up dirt and debris. Coat lightly with oil or lubricant and store as directed above.
9. Examine Electric/Power/Gas Tools: When you have a yard, things like lawn mowers, weed eaters, and chainsaws are a must. Each year, assess if you can afford to upgrade to an electric or even better, hand-powered version. Ditching the riding mower for a Reel Mower can be a fantastic move!
If you have any questions, contact TLC Garage Works by calling 888-742-5852 or click here today!
Make sure to check us out on Facebook and Twitter as well!
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