Another Promotional Deal out the door $699.95 buy the upright get the canister at no charge.....Thanks Nancy Blackley for your business...another HAPPY HAPPY customer....
H & M Industries is a proud distributor of Vinyl Siding, Vinyl Accessories, Vinyl Replacement Windows, New Construction Windows and Metal Roofing, Metal Buildings, Steel Trusses, Insulation and Mobile Home Supplies
Friday, September 30, 2016
Vinyl Window Pros and Cons
It is estimated that nearly half of all replacement windows bought in the United States are made from vinyl! Few products get that sort of endorsement. Nevertheless, as with all things in life, there are two sides to every story.
Buying replacement vinyl windows, is an important decision and bears looking into all the pros and cons associated with your new windows. Quality vinyl windows vs. inferior ones can affect the value, safety and comfort of your home for many years. How to go about finding reliable information and therefore getting the best, affordable vinyl replacement windows is essential. The following is designed to help you evaluate the pros and cons of vinyl window replacement.
Vinyl Window Manufacturers Pros and Cons
There are multitudes of vinyl window companies, manufacturers and distributors. This is good news as far as competitive pricing, but not so good when it comes to weeding out the reliable from the fly-by-night establishments. How then do you locate vinyl window manufacturers or companies you'd put in the "pro" column?
By inference, most shoppers would consider a vinyl window manufacturer or distributor who has been in business for over 100 years a dependable company. It's safe to say longevity is a good benchmark. Brand recognition is another.
You might want to make your own personal "pros" and "cons" list. For instance, write down what characteristics you want and don't want from your new vinyl windows and in the buying experience itself. Rate what features are most and least important to you like quality, price and friendly service. This list will help you match your needs to a manufacturer, company or installer who can serve you best.
Regardless of what other people write in various ratings and reviews about brand recognition, reputation or the magnitude of a vinyl window replacement company, the final decision is yours. Online research and even a little soul searching will aid you in scoping out the pros and cons of the vinyl windows you want and need.
Vinyl Window Ratings Pros or Benefits
What qualities have made vinyl windows a celebrity among window type? Simply they offer many benefits that altogether eclipse many other window types. For instance, unlike wood windows, vinyl windows don't require painting and are scratch and rot-resistant. These features make for low or no maintenance and added durability.
Pros - Installing, Design and Saving Energy
Often, vinyl windows are pre-fabricated which both greatly reduces the price and simplifies installation. Those with an eye for design can appreciate vinyl windows' wide variety of colors and that they are completely customizable. For the energy conscious, energy efficient vinyl replacement window can help reduce the overall cost of cooling and heating your home.
Vinyl Windows Cons:
Though vinyl windows have many positive attributes, they may not be for everyone and there are a few downsides or cons to vinyl windows. They can fade with time and are not made to absorb paint or stain. So, the color you buy is the color you stick with. The texture might not be suited for every house because it has a more plastic-like look.
If you live in a climate with severe weather, you should check with a window expert to verify if vinyl windows are resilient enough for the region.
Some prefer a thinner looking window frame than vinyl windows' thicker or chunkier design. Also, while vinyl replacement windows do provide insulation, they are less efficient than wood windows.
In spite of the fact that vinyl replacement windows are the most popular type of window in the United States, you should take time to weigh the pros and cons of vinyl windows in advance of buying them.
Vinyl Windows Pros and Cons - Composition
Vinyl replacement windows are known for their lower price as compared with other window styles. This makes them not only the most popular window but also possibly the most misspelled. "Vinyl" is often confused with "vynil." Nevertheless, spelling is of little concern. It is the qualities and benefits - the pros over the cons that make vinyl replacement windows the top choice among U.S. window shoppers - 50% of the replacement windows are vinyl.
What materials comprise this wonder substance called vinyl and what are its pros and cons? The stuff that window frames are made of determines the windows type. For instance, the common ones are wood, aluminum and of course vinyl.
Vinyl Windows Pros and Cons - Wood
What type of window you select is a major home repair or improvement decision that will affect you and your home well into the future. So, what are the pros and cons of selecting vinyl over say wood? Compatibility with your home's design, age and architecture should be factored into your decision.
If you have an older more traditional home, do the pros of vinyl outweigh the cons even when compared with wood replacement windows? Perhaps, but it may help you choose if you are aware that vinyl windows with a wood-look or wood grain overlay are available.
Despite the cons of wood windows, many people still favor them over vinyl. Getting to know the pros and cons of vinyl and wood replacement windows is time well-spent and will certainly cut down the possibility of buyer's remorse.
How to Avoid Breaking a Vacuum Belt
Unless you keep an auxiliary vacuum belt always on hand, having a vacuum cleaner belt break in the middle of vacuuming can become a very frustrating experience. This is particularly true if you are expecting company and have a big mess to clean up. To assist you in preventing breakage of your vacuum belt and in understanding how to prevent this problem, follow these 5 simple steps.
Step 1 – Know Which Type of Belt Your Vacuum Uses
There are many different models of vacuums and many types of belts. Each belt, although the function is the same with each, is meant to work only with a specific vacuum type or model. This is important information because if you purchase and install the wrong type of vacuum belt, this will only lead to another broken belt. Worse yet, it can damage your vacuum.
To understand which type of belt your vacuum uses, look for the belt number on the machine itself or on the actual belt. If in doubt, look to your instruction manual for this information.
Step 2 – Make Sure You Install the Belt Properly
On most vacuum cleaners you install the belt by placing it over the motor spindle and then the brush roller. If you fail to install the belt correctly it could result in another belt breakage as well as damaging the vacuum. Be sure when installing the belt that you adjust it for the proper tension, You may find it tricky to secure the brush roller in place because of this tension. You should realize that the tension is necessary to allow the brush roller to spin as it should.
Step 3 – Avoid Overheating the Belt
When vacuuming, be on the lookout for objects that might cause a problem if they become lodged or caught in the vacuum. Often, a belt breaks because the machine is runs over the edge of a rug or other thick items, perhaps even the vacuum cord. This causes “snagging.” When this happens, the belt becomes stuck and usually overheats. Unfortunately, this results in immediate breakage. If your vacuum is not a gear-driven belt system with electronic overload, this is more likely to occur. If and when you are in the market to purchase a new vacuum, it you should consider purchasing a vacuum with this type of system.
Step 4 – Change Your Belt Often
You should change your vacuum belt about every 6 months. Over an extended period of time the belt usually becomes more and more elastic and loose fitting around the brush roller. This prevents the brush roller from operating at its maximum efficiency. Keep extra belts on hand and this will eliminate frustration of belt breakage.
Step 5 – Purchase and Use a Cog-Belt Vacuum
If and when you are in the market for a new vacuum, the type of system that will less likely break belts is a “cog-belt” system. This system is best because the machine automatically turns off when the brush roller becomes snagged.
Thursday, September 29, 2016
Buying a Vacuum Cleaner
The secret to fabulous-looking carpets? It's simple — have a "no-shoes-in-the-house rule" and vacuum frequently.
The Good Housekeeping Research Institute's home care director, Carolyn Forté, offers advice on how to keep your vacuum and carpets in great shape.
1. What's the difference between a canister and an upright vacuum?
A canister vacuum is generally more versatile. Like uprights, canisters handle carpets, but they're also great at cleaning bare floors, vacuuming stairs and sucking up dirt from corners.
2. Which is better — a vacuum with a bag or a bagless vacuum?
Neither is better. The Good Housekeeping Institute tests show that both clean equally well. Which you buy depends on personal preference. Bagless cleaners save you the trouble of having to buy extra bags, but they can be messy to empty, and the filters and dust containers must be kept clean. While vacuums with bags keep dust and dirt contained, they are tricky to retrieve an earring or small object that gets sucked up accidentally.
3. Do more amps mean better cleaning?
If you're tempted to buy a model with the highest amps, horsepower or watts, you might want to think again. These numbers are simply measurements of the electrical current used by the motor. A vacuum cleaner's performance depends on airflow, the amount of suction it produces, and other factors including the overall design and attachments.
4. What are all the attachments for?
When you're vacuuming pile carpets and rugs, you should use the motorized power nozzle. But when you're cleaning bare floors and walls, it's best to use the wall/floor brush. To get dust out of drawers, heating and air-conditioning vents, and from under larger appliances, try the crevice tool. For mattresses, upholstered fabrics, curtains and car interiors, use the upholstery attachment. And to remove dust from blinds, lampshades and moldings, use the dusting brush.
5. How often should I vacuum?
In an ideal world, an area that has heavy traffic should be vacuumed every day. But once or twice a week is more realistic with today's busy lifestyles and certainly enough for areas that aren't often used. For best results, slowly move the vacuum over the carpet several times, going back and forth and side to side in parallel rows.
6. How many times does a vacuum need to be run over a carpet to get it clean?
Generally, you should use as many as seven strokes for high-traffic areas; three or four for lighter ones. If you're fanatical about dirt, consider buying a vacuum with a dirt sensor, which tells you when an area is clean.
7. How often should my vacuum-cleaner bag be changed?
If your bag is filled to the indicator line, it's time to change it. Even though some vacuums have "check bag" indicator lights, it's best to check the bag yourself and change it when it's no more than three-quarters full. If you have a pet or you vacuum up fireplace ashes, you may have to change the bag more often. To be on the safe side, check the dirt level in the bag before each use.
8. How often should I change the filter on my vacuum?
You don't have to change the filter as often as the bag. If the filter shows signs of wear, or is excessively dirty or torn, it's time to replace it. HEPA filters — ones that remove most dirt particles — should be changed after six months or after the sixth bag change. The owner's manual will tell you where the filter is located and will have recommendations for your particular model.
9. At what height should my nozzle adjustment be set?
The level you set your nozzle at depends on the height of your carpet. For example, you would use the lowest setting for a low-pile carpet and a higher one for plush carpet. You'll only need to push your vacuum with a moderate amount of effort when you've selected the appropriate level.
10. When do I know it's time to replace the belt on my vacuum?
If you think your vacuum isn't cleaning as well as it used to or the brush roll has stopped turning, it may be time to change your belt. First, shut off your vacuum and unplug its cord. It's not difficult to replace the belt as long as you have a screwdriver and a replacement belt. For instructions for your specific vacuum, refer to your owner's manual or call the manufacturer's service center.
11. What should I do if my vacuum cleaner isn't picking up dirt?
First, give it a full inspection. To do so, turn the machine off and unplug it. Then, check to see if the belt is worn or broken, or if the roller-brush won't move. Also, look for a full bag or any blockage that might be affecting the power of the machine. Sometimes, new carpet can be a problem because it sheds more fiber and has a tendency to fill bags quickly and clog the air stream. If everything checks out and your machine still isn't working properly, bring it to a repair shop.
12. How do I vacuum an Oriental rug?
Since Oriental rugs can be very fragile, you may have to use extra care when vacuuming them. Still, to keep them in peak condition, they should be cleaned often. If you're using an upright vacuum cleaner, it's best to turn off the agitator brush (if possible). When approaching the fringe, tip up the front slightly and push it completely off the carpet. This cleans the fringe without catching it in the rotating agitator brush. With a canister vacuum, use the bare floor brush for gentler cleaning of the carpet, and use an upholstery attachment for the fringe. Also, don't forget to periodically turn the rug over so you can vacuum its underside.
13. Is it bad for my carpet or vacuum to use powder fresheners?
Provided you have a good vacuum, powders shouldn't be a problem. For the best pick-up, start with a clean bag. Since these powders can clog the bag, you'll probably have to change the bag afterward.
Wednesday, September 28, 2016
Choosing the Right Windows for Your Home
If your windows have seen better days, replacing them with energy efficient, double pane windows can significantly reduce your heating and cooling bills while adding value and curb appeal to your home.
However, selecting the right windows for your home can be overwhelming given all the styles, materials, and features that are available to choose from. In addition, since this project is a major investment and new windows are expected to last up to 20 years, doing some homework before you make a decision can save on headaches later on.
New or Replacement Windows
One of the first decisions a homeowner must make is between “new” and “replacement” windows. Here is the difference:
New Windows
New windows are usually installed when the homeowner wants to change the size or shape of the current window opening and put a completely new window in its place. This generally requires the work of a contractor to complete the installation and surrounding carpentry.
While new windows generally do not cost more than replacement, the additional labor adds to the overall price. A big advantage of new windows is that you have the option to completely change the appearance and feel of your home both inside and out.
Replacement Windows
Installing replacement windows involves removing the old windows without disturbing the surrounding trim or frame, and replacing them with new windows or sash that are designed to fit right into the existing opening. Replacement windows cost around the same as new windows, but there is less labor involved in the installation, so the overall cost is less.
Replacement windows are a great option when the existing frame is still in good condition or when the trim is attractive and fits the décor of the home. Obviously the savings on labor costs are helpful when budget is a consideration. Depending on the manufacturer, replacement windows can be a stock size or they can easily be custom ordered to fit any opening.
Window Styles
Once you have decided between new and replacement windows the next decision is the style or type of window you would like. The four most basic and popular types are:
Double hung window.
Single or Double Hung Windows: These are among the most common windows and are found in most homes. They consist of two separate sash (the actual pane of glass in the inner frame), which open or close by sliding up or down. A single hung window opens from the bottom only by sliding up, while a double hung window can be opened from either the top or the bottom.
Double hung windows are ideal for creating air flow through the home when you lower the top sash. They are especially suited to homes where there are small children as they prevent the danger of a child climbing out the bottom window. (Remember: window screens don’t support the weight of a small child.)
-Casement Windows: These windows usually consist of one large sash that’s hinged vertically and opens by swinging out. Usually a lever or other mechanism is used to open this style of window.
-Awning Windows: These windows are hinged at the top and opened by tilting the window out from the bottom. As their name suggests, awning window create the appearance of an awning when open. These windows are most popular in coastal areas and in bathrooms.
-Slider Windows: These windows slide open from side to side and are an excellent choice when there is limited space outside to swing the window open.
Window Frame and Sash Materials
Once you have determined the style or type of window, next you have to consider the materials the windows are made from. The most popular window materials today are wood or vinyl. There are also variations including “wood clad” windows. Aluminum frame windows are also available, but are less popular since they aren’t as energy efficient as vinyl or wood.
-Wood Windows: Wood is both beautiful and had good insulating properties to resist heat and cold. However, the natural look of wood involves considerable maintenance. Besides periodic painting or staining, wood windows must be treated to protect them from moisture, movement, and rot.
-Vinyl Windows: Like their cousin vinyl fencing, vinyl windows have become one of the most popular choices among homeowners. Vinyl is virtually maintenance free, provides excellent insulation, is reasonably priced, and looks great.
-Vinyl Clad Windows: These windows offer the beauty of wood on the inside with a vinyl coating on the wood frame outside. This offers the maintenance free feature that makes vinyl so popular, while giving the beauty and natural feel of stained or painted wood on the inside.
Window Warranties
Carefully examine the warranties offered by the various window manufacturers, especially concerning the glass itself, since fogging between the panes is a common complaint on insulated glass windows. This is where a well known company with a good reputation will serve you well. Companies that have been around for a while are more likely to be around in the future should your window have problems or need replacement parts or sash.
Choosing a Window Contractor
There are several ways to find a good window installation contractor, but your best bet is to choose the window you want first and then look for a contractor who is especially trained by that manufacturer. Of course, as always, a great idea is to call H&M Industries and we'll handle it for you!!! 704-434-9900 FREE estimates..
Best Features for Hardwood Vacuums
What are the features that you should be looking for in your vacuum cleaner for hardwood floors? There are many sets of features offered by different companies most of which are not really essential to the function of the device itself. Try not to get distracted by all the bells and whistles that come on a certain model. Instead, pay attention to these key features:
Versatile Attachments
Hardwood floors need a variety of attachments if you want to get the cleanest home possible. Arguably the most important element to consider is a large suction head without a spinning beater brush. Beater brushes can make terrible scratches on hardwood floors. Choose a vacuum that includes a large head either without a beater brush or with the option to turn the brush off.
Look for a convenient set of attachments to help you clean all the edges and other spaces around your home as well. This includes a slim edging wand, one or two small and medium sized brush heads and a soft suction brush head for surfaces like window shades, drapes and mechanical devices.
Low-medium Suction Power
Few hardwood floors will require a vacuum cleaner with strong suction power. In most cases the strongest suction is needed only for larger carpets and is completely unnecessary for hardwood floors. For this reason you can spend your money more wisely and get a high quality vacuum with a little less power. This choice will enable you to get a model that will last your for years while cleaning everything you need it to.
If you have natural, untreated hardwood floors or floors with deep lines or grooves, it might be a good idea for you to look for stronger suction (although it’s not strictly necessary). It is possible that on these types of wood floors will collect dust and dirt further down from the surface that will need to be sucked up.
Padding
The plastic body of a vacuum can do a lot of damage to your wood floors as it is dragged and pushed around the house. A lot of lower-end models or versions meant primarily for carpets will not have much rubberized or felt padding on them and will be chiefly made of hard plastic. It’s a better idea for you to get a device that’s been designed for hardwood floors. These will usually feature more rubberized or felt padding around the bottom and sides of the vacuum body.
Wheels also need to be rubberized or feature some sort of padding as they will always be in contact with the floor. Be careful with upright vacuums for this very reason. Uprights are normally designed for carpets and they will have wheels made of hard plastic without any rubber or padding to protect your wood flooring. Canister vacuums usually feature larger wheels with some sort of rubber to help them roll around more easily and protect floors as these vacuums are generally the type that are chosen for cleaning hardwood floors.
Lightweight
As we mentioned before, weight can become an issue if you are planning to clean your entire house with the same vacuum cleaner. Try to choose a more lightweight brand if possible to avoid causing damage from bumps, falls or normal dragging around. Heavier machines are more likely to show some wear and tear on your floors than lighter machines.
Long Extension Hoses
No matter what type of vacuum you choose, you will have to make sure it can reach all areas of your floor and home without hurting your back so much. Choosing a short extension hose is a bad idea as you will have to do a lot more bending to reach certain parts of your home. This can be painful for your back and tiring for your arms.
Long hoses relieve the stress you would otherwise be putting on your back and allow you to clean more efficiently for a longer period of time. If you have to reach anywhere up high or between cramped spaces, a long hose plus a extendable wand will be your best bet for accomplishing these tasks without causing yourself any pain.
Where to Buy
By now you probably have a good idea about what kind of vacuum cleaner you want to get for your home. The biggest question now is: where you should get it?
What else do you really have to do today thats better than coming by H&M to check out our Vinyl Siding, Vinyl Windows, Metal Roofing, etc., and by getting your FREE estimate..need to do some research first? Go to our website and see what we have to offer www.hmindustries.com then call 704-434-9900 with your measurements..
Tuesday, September 27, 2016
FOR SALE: 2013 CHEVROLET IMPALA $8,500.00
MILEAGE: 43050
THIS CAR IS IN EXCELLENT CONDITION.
RUNS AND DRIVES LIKE A NEW ONE.
CALL FOR MORE INFO 828-248-1681
FOR SALE 2014 NISSAN VERSA
BEAUTIFUL CAR WITH ONLY 4,607 MILES
THIS IS AS CLOSE TO NEW AS A USED CAR CAN GET!!
Only $8,900.00
FOR MORE INFO CALL 828-248-1681
2006 Dodge Dakota V8 Magnum Extended Cab Truck $6,900.00
3 Doors, 6 Speed Manual Transmission, Bed Liner etc.
Also equipped with Air Lifts for hauling heavy loads.
Very nice truck.
Mileage: 71,918
For more info please call 828-248-1681
MILEAGE: 43050
THIS CAR IS IN EXCELLENT CONDITION.
RUNS AND DRIVES LIKE A NEW ONE.
CALL FOR MORE INFO 828-248-1681
FOR SALE 2014 NISSAN VERSA
BEAUTIFUL CAR WITH ONLY 4,607 MILES
THIS IS AS CLOSE TO NEW AS A USED CAR CAN GET!!
Only $8,900.00
FOR MORE INFO CALL 828-248-1681
2006 Dodge Dakota V8 Magnum Extended Cab Truck $6,900.00
3 Doors, 6 Speed Manual Transmission, Bed Liner etc.
Also equipped with Air Lifts for hauling heavy loads.
Very nice truck.
Mileage: 71,918
For more info please call 828-248-1681
The Deluxe Brilliance upright vacuum cleaner by Riccar is a versatile cleaner that has exceptional cleaning performance and features. This bagged upright earns our respect for its outstanding filtration and maneuverability and a hose that retains full power when you are using its cleaning tools.
Performance
Most upright vacuum cleaners use a bypass motor design that provides strong hose suction or a direct air motor that provides excellent floor suction. Riccar uses air technology that provides both floor and hose suction, giving it the versatility you need to clean a wide variety of surfaces.
The Riccar Deluxe Brilliance has a sealed system, which means a rubber lining protects each compartment of the machine so air carrying fine dust particles and allergens do not escape through the seams of the machine. It effectively retains dust in its bag instead of blowing dirty air back into your home.
Its HEPA filter captures 99.97 percent of pollen, animal dander and tiny dust particles, making it ideal if you suffer from allergies. The vacuum bag is composed of seven layers to keep allergens from escaping, and pet owners will appreciate its charcoal filters that help eliminate unpleasant odors.
This model has a manual height adjustment so you can raise and lower the machine to clean a variety of surfaces. However, the controls are not convenient to reach; you have to bend to reach them. The cleaner works well on high-pile carpets and you can turn off the roller brush to clean flat surfaces. The machine has variable suction control settings so you can turn it down for cleaning light rugs and curtains. On the lower setting, it doesn't pull your curtains into the hose – it just skims over them, gently removing surface dust and cobwebs.
This vacuum cleaner has a built-in motor protection indicator. The indicator lets you know when the dust bag is full or there is a blockage. It also has an auto shut-off feature, so if you run over a shoe, the machine will turn itself off. This will protect the motor and keep it from overheating.
Convenience
Unlike lesser-quality vacuum cleaners, Riccar constructs its moving components out of metal rather than plastic, giving it extra durability. It is equipped with reinforced metal pivots and a stainless steel bottom plate that won't easily break or fall apart.
With metal parts, it is heavier than other cleaners are, weighing 20 pounds. It is easy to handle and maneuvers well under beds and low furniture, so you hardly notice the weight. The machine is equipped with a row of LED headlights that allow you to see if you have missed a spot. The lights are particularly useful for cleaning areas with poor lighting, such as dark closets. With a 32-foot power cord, you can transition from room to room without having to change electric outlets, which makes it easy to use.
This vacuum can recline flat to the floor, allowing you to reach under low furniture without lifting or moving it. Only the best vacuum cleaners have this feature; it spares you from having to use the attachment to clean under couches and coffee tables.
Design Extras
This machine comes with an 8-foot hose and wand for cleaning ceiling cobwebs. It has plenty of other tools as well, including an upholstery tool, dusting brush and crevice tool. Unlike most cleaners that have weak hose suction, the motor design gives the cleaner extra suction that is great for cleaning stairs and removing annoying pet hair from furniture. The tools are housed on the machine so you don't have to bend to reach them.
Accessories
Riccar dealers and service centers are easy to find in most cities, and the company website has an email link for help and support. There is also a toll-free number for product questions, and we found agents easy to reach by telephone. The Deluxe Brilliance upright is a durable machine that has a five-year warranty.
Summary
The Riccar Deluxe Brilliance is a well-rounded machine that has all of the qualities you expect in the best vacuum cleaners. It has excellent cleaning performance on all surfaces, outstanding filtration features and easy maneuverability. If you are a meticulous housekeeper, consider purchasing this powerful machine.
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