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Tinley Park, IL

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Residential and Commercial plumbers and plumbing contractors available in Orland Park, Tinley Park, Oak Lawn, Palos Heights, Midlothian, Oak Forest, Homer Glen, Mokena, Frankfort, and the surrounding Chicago South Suburbs. Emergency plumbers.

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Kevin Szabo Jr Plumbing Blog

Kevin Szabo Jr Plumbing is Tinley Park, Orland Park, Oak Forest, Midlothian, Orland Hill, Homer Glen, Mokena, Frankfort, Crestwood, Palos Heights, Oak Lawn, local plumber. Read our blog for advice, tips, a good laugh, and basic home improvement.

**We are moving our old blog to our new and improved website. Too see all our posts visit kevinszabojrplumbing.blogspot.com

Filtering by Category: November 2021

Choosing Bedroom Furniture 101 – Everything You Need to Consider Before Making a Purchase

RH Business Marketing Solutions

Are you about to set up your new bedroom? Before you dive into the interior decorating chasm, you’ll need to explore all the options and know all the details about your bedroom space. On top of that, you can’t forget to keep everyone’s taste in mind to make sure you and your partner feel welcome and comfortable during the night. Our comprehensive guide will let you know all about the aspects you need to consider before investing in bedroom furniture.

The size of the room

One of the most important factors that will affect your bedroom design is the size of the bedroom itself. If you’re starting from scratch and have no furniture in, you’ll need to take a good look at the room and measure it thoroughly. The last thing you need is a bed that takes up almost all the space. Take into consideration the wardrobe, nightstands and any other piece of furniture that you want to place there when assessing the size of the room.

Your measurements

Once you’ve gotten to know how big a bed you can fit in the room, make sure it fits you. The bed needs to be big enough for you and your partner to sleep in it without feeling cramped by each other. If you’re setting up a bedroom for a teenager, they won’t need a double bed, but rather a bed that’s long and wide enough to accommodate one person and keep them cozy.

Headboard and footboard possibilities

Having a stylish headboard adds a dose of class to a bedroom while also making your time in bed more comfortable. Before you decide to invest in one of the many elegant fabric bed heads, consider your taste. On top of that, think whether a headboard will be in the way of a window, perhaps, or if it will be exactly the detail you need to make the room look ready for a good night’s sleep. Do you need a footboard too? Whether you want to create an extension for the bed or have a place to sit on and get dressed without feeling too tempted to go back to bed, a footboard can be a classy addition as well as a bed head.

Know your style

After assessing all the previous aspects of a bedroom, you'll need to stop and think about your interior design style. Are you more of a minimalist, or do you like pieces to show off your eclectic nature? Maybe you love earthy tones, or you'd prefer old-fashioned furniture to resemble your grandparent's retro style. Only after thinking about your style should you start shopping and decorating the room.

Consider everyone’s needs

Have you ever stopped to think about what your partner’s preferences are? If you’ve been living with a boyfriend, girlfriend or maybe you’re a newlywed couple, you should also consider your spouse’s taste when shopping for nightstands and armoires. Will you even need or want a nightstand? Will your partner? What do they think about having a built-in closet and a set of armchairs matched with a coffee table by the window? Will a chandelier and matching bedside lamps be too much for them? Make sure you consider yours and their needs before investing in that pricey piece of furniture.

Decorating a bedroom will be a tiresome process but a fulfilling one too. However, to avoid any disagreement and resentment later on, be sure to talk to your partner about the decorating ideas and furniture options in general. Know your style, and don't forget to measure the room so that all the pieces can fit seamlessly into the space creating a stunning décor for both of you.

 Guest Contributor: Diana Smith

Plumbing: Commercial vs. Residential

RH Business Marketing Solutions

Plumbing is more complicated than most people may believe. You might encounter problems with it no matter what building you occupy. Apparently, residential and commercial plumbing share similar characteristics. However, upon closer inspection, there are just as many minor factors that significantly impact the workplace.

What Makes It Residential or Commercial Plumbing?

Residential Plumber: A residential plumber installs, fixes, fits, and maintains pipes in a residential building's drainage system. They also work on fittings for water cooling, heating, distribution, and sanitation. Their tasks are to interpret blueprints and construction standards to design a plan, record difficulties, and evaluate drainage systems.

Imagine a single day in the life of a residential plumber who goes from house to house. They concentrate on the correct operation of a single-family home. They can unclog a clogged drain in the kitchen and understand how to fix a damaged pipe or install a water-saving toilet in the family bathroom. 

Commercial Plumber: Complex faucet and pipe installation and repair are part of commercial plumbing. It includes the construction and management of substantial waste disposal and water supply systems. It also applies to a wide range of enterprises and major housing complexes. If you're seeking a commercial plumber, especially in a big city, be sure they're not residential plumbers.

A commercial plumber deals with a variety of issues daily. In a multi-story office building, they would have to cope with a flooded restroom. They could build the plumbing system in a new apartment complex and be familiar with various local ordinances and regulations. Dozens may utilize commercial plumbing for hundreds of people, so it will have to manage more significant water pressures and different permits and installation processes that may not be necessary for a typical residential home.

The Distinct Differences

The Difference in Work Complexity

Commercial buildings may contain many stories, numerous sinks, and various toilets and urinals, while residential structures are ordinarily basic and easy to navigate. It requires commercial plumbers' knowledge of a more complicated building structure. 

Daily Utilization of the Plumbing System

Daily plumbing usage in the commercial sector is higher than in the residential sector. It is due to the increased use of more clients and staff. Meanwhile, in a residential setting, only the house occupants get to use the system with fewer pipe fittings and outlets. Thus, the commercial space needs more maintenance because of the higher rate of use compared to residential.

The Plumbing System's Efficiency

Damages can occur at any time since no system is flawless. A blocked bathroom in a commercial building may cause many problems for many people; therefore, it needs a solution right away. It's best to choose a commercial plumber with experience because even minor damage can cause problems across the piping system's foundation.

Durability and Size of the System

Commercial plumbing utilizes large fittings with more extended durability and high grading due to increased demand, resulting in fewer breakdown incidents due to stress and pressure. Plumbing systems for residential systems are small and utilize low-grade pipe fittings because of their low use rate.


Health Issues

As more people visit commercial establishments, particularly restaurants, there is a greater need to adhere to rigorous healthcare regulations and guarantee that your plumbing system is clean. Because there are fewer and more controlled residents, homes are easier to manage. As a result, commercial plumbing requires a variety of plumbing fittings that are simple to clean and drain rapidly.

The Possibility of Damage

Commercial plumbing systems are more vulnerable to damage than residential ones, which are less intricate. Residential plumbing damage is limited to the modest size of the system. However, commercial plumbing damage may be disastrous, primarily if your business space extends across numerous levels.

Most buildings can access their critical utility areas by installing heavy-duty general access doors, but unfortunately, not all facilities have it. A plumber should know what to do if such an instance happens and learn how to address the issue before it becomes more significant.

The Scope of Work

Commercial plumbing projects are more repetitive than residential plumbing, requiring various applications on different pipe sections. They can do it on huge facilities with equipment designed for larger applications. Residential plumbing is a typical eight-hour job, except in emergencies, but commercial plumbing may occur any day. Commercial plumbing maintenance may need to be done on weekends or holidays when staff isn't at work.

The Difference in Water Heaters

Large storage tanks and higher gas input levels are necessary for commercial heaters, as commercial buildings have more occupants than residential residences. Commercial heater tanks are massive, holding up to 250 gallons, but residential heater tanks are often little more than 100 gallons.

Job Knowledge Prerequisites

Commercial plumbing is far more schedule-oriented. For example, repairing an original structure needs completion on time since more people rely on it, and interruptions can result in losses.  

Instances of Leakage

Because people utilize the bulk of their house plumbing daily and may notice minor leaks, diagnosing small leaks and running water in a house is more straightforward than in a commercial space. Leaks are more readily spotted in commercial buildings, especially those with numerous stories, resulting in significant leaking, water waste, and high costs.  

Drainage Services

When opposed to commercial plumbing, draining residential plumbing is comparatively simple. For example, snake drain lines in many storage facilities are complicated and time-consuming. A plumber must trace their way from each unit and certify that any obstructions are gone and cleaned down to the main sewage line.

Although there is a distinction between residential and commercial plumbing, it is advisable to find a plumber who has seen and done it all with residential and commercial plumbing problems. A skilled plumber can adapt to the circumstances and provide unrivaled plumbing services.

Guest Contributor: Chris Jackson

Best Ways to Add a Plumbing Access Door and Panel

RH Business Marketing Solutions

A plumbing access panel is an access panel that has a removable door and frame whose primary function is to cover plumbing pipes, the main shut-off valve behind the ceiling, and wall surfaces making it very quick and easy to use. These essential components are present in both exterior and interior parts of the building structure. 

Protecting every plumbing component is essential to ensure no issues or damage happen to the pipes. Usually, a plumbing access panel has an easy-to-remove and place plywood door cover. However, with more innovations in today's technology, different access panels are available in the market today, such as plumbing access panels.

Rustic or Vintage Access Panel Appearance

For a traditional way of hiding plumbing components, wooden plumbing access panels are the ideal type of installation. However, it does not offer the same strength as the metal or plastic plumbing access panel. It is perfect if the property owner wants a rustic or vintage style. The installation of this wooden access panel is mainly at the initial stage of the building construction. 

Prevent Unauthorized Opening

Preventing unauthorized entry to plumbing components is essential in every building. Thus, a sturdier access panel to cover them is a good option. A metal access panel provides a medium security level to prevent unauthorized personnel from opening the plumbing system, including the main supply valves. It is also a fire-resistant access panel that seamlessly blends through walls and ceilings. 

Ceilings

For ceiling plumbing access, installing a plumbing access hatch that closely resembles a trap door provides efficient protection from exterior elements. It also works efficiently well for plumbing. Some plumbing access hatch variations have a lock and latch for security purposes, and this feature is essential when securing the hatch from being opened illegally.

Basements and Attics 

If the building has a plumbing system in specific areas like the basement and attics, drywall access panels are perfect for this match. Sometimes the ceiling and walls have a drywall compound so incorporating metal or plastic access panels for the plumbing system is the best choice for this type of location. They are easy to install and offer safety to the building. They are also perfect for hiding water valves and cables, and wires. 

Bathrooms

In most cases, bathrooms incorporate plumbing access doors to ensure quick and easy access to the plumbing system during maintenance, inspection, and repairs. For instance, no one predicts when the tub or sink gets broken, so preparing for this kind of issue is best. Property owners can do that by incorporating plumbing access doors in the bathrooms. 

Plumbing Components

Many plumbing access panels are usually wood or steel. However, plastic access panels are convenient and efficient because of their lightweight materials. They are pretty expensive than steel or wood as they use high-quality materials and are resistant to rust and fade.

Versatility 

Access panels are ideal in several areas, such as plumbing, security systems, ceilings, and walls for versatility. There's no need to have extensive experience to install these as it has a simple construction and design for easy installation in walls and ceilings. 

Add Plumbing Access Without Sacrificing The Aesthetics of Ceilings and Walls

Another way to hide building components like plumbing, mechanical and electrical components is by incorporating a louvered access panel. Aside from providing quick and easy access during the inspection, maintenance, and repairs, this access panel is one of the most versatile. It seamlessly blends with ceilings and walls without sacrificing its aesthetic looks. 

Access panels are essential in every building structure as they provide security, safety, easy access for every building component, and additional space for storage. Some other places require the installation following building codes. There are many access panels available in the market today; however, picking the best and most reliable one is a must. 

Guest Contributor: Chris Jackson

Holiday Mantle Inspiration

RH Business Marketing Solutions

Looking to jump right into Christmas decorating now that Halloween is over? Don’t worry, we won’t judge you, we love Christmas. Many people have mantles available to decorate, and nothing screams Christmas more than a fully decorated mantle in the Christmas spirit. There are so many ways to decorate, from stockings, wreaths, signs, garland, pillows, the possibilities are endless. We love looking at other people’s decorated mantles, and maybe you can get inspired from them!

Starting off with a farmhouse vibe mantle, farmhouse is so in style right now. A lot of people love the grey and white or black and white aesthetic, and this captured it perfect! Cozy little pillows, small Christmas tree’s and stockings hung on the fireplace! This definitely gives off cozy vibes.

Look at the clean, sleek look of this simple mantle. It is filled with Christmas colors of course, but it’s not too overwhelming on the eyes. A little bit of garland and a cute Christmas sign can go a long way!

Another garland look, look at those oversized galvanized bells! This reminds me of the Polar Express. We love how the plaid bows are worked into the green of the garland, and to top it off added oversized bells. This look is simple yet super adorable and very affordable.

What better way to decorate than adding buffalo plaid into your mantle? So cute, simple, yet gives off all of the Christmas vibes!

How aesthetically pleasing is this mantle!? Adding patterns into the mantle is a cute way to decorate. If you have the space on the ground, decorate that too! Add some signs, a lantern, and maybe a Christmas quote and you’re good to go!

Looking to go all out? Get lots of colors! We know the traditional Christmas colors are red and green, but don’t be afraid to branch out! Adding pops of white into the mantle and decorations will definitely give it a much needed pop of color!

Another Farmhouse Aesthetic, but with a twist! Spice up your mantle by adding Christmas decorations on it, but make it pop even more by adding them AROUND it! It will give your mantle the much needed pop and gives you an opportunity to decorate light on the mantle and go all out around it!

Guest Contributor: Tiffany Powell

CRM Kitchen Remodeling: The Best CRM Software for Kitchen 2021

RH Business Marketing Solutions

Customer Relation Management tools are being used in almost every industry today. Even the firms that were not using it, started using it in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Why? because it made remote working conditions and collaborations much more efficient and productive.

While CRM software is mostly used by various corporations, whether they are in the energy sector, development, FMCG, or real estate. Similarly, CRM software can be used for kitchen remodeling purposes as well.

Since CRM is now being designed keeping several niches in mind, for example, you have separate software for real estate CRMwhich focuses on developing leadership and can probably sync with sites like Zillow, etc. On the other hand, we now also have CRM software that focuses on specifically kitchen remodeling. Check out this construction estimate template.

So if you are into the construction business or specifically into kitchen remodeling, here is a list of the best CRM software that you can use for kitchen remodeling in 2021.

1.   ServiceMonster

This software is built specifically for the field and servicing industry. A lot of carpet cleaning businesses and other businesses like it use the software to manage their customers and businesses. And it has become popular in the servicing industry because it has proven to be profitable and extremely productive.

Let us look at some of the features that it has to offer:

·       Billing and Invoicing customers are easier with all the stored information

·       Clients management, which is the core of this software’s perks

·       Scheduling and reminders for meetings

·       E-signatures are a blessing in disguise

·       Work-order and inventory management

·       The tracking service history is extremely convenient.

So go ahead, this software is going to make it easier to complete your kitchen remodeling task easier.

2.    Job Progress

This software is known for residential contractors and tradesmen. Why? Because its tools and services cater to that particular niche. This software also enables smooth teamwork and a smooth workflow as well.

Let us look at some of the main features this software has to offer:

·       Contract management tools help with rules and services offered to a particular client.

·       Enable tracking clients

·       It is a great project management software will all tools that enable it to track development and keep updating the project.

So while this software offers a few more features than the software mentioned above, if your business needs you can use this software for your kitchen modeling projects.

3.    AccuLynx

This one is specifically built for roofing companies, be it residential or commercial. It offers different features and tools that can help you with your business;

·       The unique feature of aerial measurement is offered by this software, which is pretty rare

·       It offers checklists, inspections, invoicing, billing, etc

·       It also offers lead management and dispatch management tools

·       Scheduling and work-order management is very user-friendly.

4.    Jobber

This one is also catered towards the home management business, which is why it could be beneficial for you to take a look at its features and see if it works for you.

·       It provides you with a contact database and contract management tools

·       Dispatching and electronic signature is also unique about this software

·       It helps you with Quotes and Estimates

·       Scheduling and reminders about meetings etc

·       It also helps you record payment management in the field

·       It offers an online time clock that helps with meeting deadlines for a job or a task

 

5.    Market Share

Marketshare is building specifically for home improvement businesses, contractors, remodelers, etc. Here are a few highlight features of this software that you can benefit from

·       Project Management

·       Contract Management

·       Lead and Pipeline segmentation and management

·       Various prospecting tools 

·       Clients and source tracking

The software is also cheaper comparatively and offers essential features that can benefit you to the core of your kitchen remodeling business.

6.    Improve It 360

This software is built for remodeling businesses, be it small scale, medium, or large. This software is popular as it helps companies build homes, kitchens, etc and earn good profits. Let us look at a few features of this software

·       It offers management of all sorts, be it employee management,  financial, inventory or marketing management.

·       The unique feature that this software offers is training and vendor management as well.

·       Purchasing records

·       It also helps with time and expense tracking which can only improve productivity.

 

7.    LeadPerfection

This CRM tool is for remodeling businesses, contractors, and home improvement companies. It is a purpose-built CRM that is focused on home construction, which is why it made to our list of CRM software we recommend for kitchen remodeling.

Let us look at  a few features of this software:

·       It offers call center automation, which we can all swear by is a very efficient customer management tool

·       It also offers to canvass programs that help you with the designs etc.

·       The best thing about this software is that it can be synced with Quickbooks and many other software.

·       You can also create various reports through this software that can help you build strategies and all.

8.    Job Nimbus

This is our last but not the least favorite recommendation to you if you are looking for remodeling kitchens. This software is specifically built for roofers and remodeling companies. The following are only a few unique features of this application:

·       It helps with building quotes and proposals that you can forward to your clients.

·       It helps with forecasting

·       Offers sales and pipeline managements

·       It also offers contract and client management which ensures productivity among employees.

Remodel Your Kitchen Using CRM

If you are using the best software for your business, you are only ensuring productivity, huge profits, and a good clientele base. This is 2021 and you can find anything you need, even get customized software features that are important and relevant to your business.

So choose from one of the software's mentioned above and you will see a productive rise in your business.

 Author Bio:
Dur-e-Sabih provides ghostwriting and copywriting services. Her educational background in Accountancy helps her in tackling topics ranging from career and business productivity to web development, finance, and digital marketing. She writes blog articles for Real Estate CRM.