Author: Alice Mckee

Roofing

Why Roof Repair Is Important

Alice Mckee

Your roof protects your home from water damage and extreme weather, so it’s important to keep it in good condition. Damaged roofs can lead to pest infestations, mildew, higher heating and cooling bills and problems with resale.

Roof Repair

The first step in deciding whether your roof needs repair is to perform a visual inspection. Look for shingle granules, structural damage and leaks. Visit https://www.ellingsonroofing.com/roofing-missoula-mt to learn more.

When shingles are damaged or missing, water can seep through the roof and damage other areas of the home. Replacing shingles that are damaged or missing quickly can prevent leaks and other problems. Replacing roof shingles also helps to keep the overall look of the roof consistent and adds value to the home.

The first step in repairing a damaged shingle is to remove the nail that holds it to the roof deck. This can be done with a flat pry bar and a hammer. Ideally, the repair is done when the weather is cool and dry. The sealant bond that holds the shingle to the roof is more easily sheared when it is cool and dry than when it is hot and gooey.

Once the shingle is removed, it should be replaced with a new shingle of the same type and color. The nails that hold the replacement shingle to the roof deck are similar to those of the original shingle, so it’s important to use the same type and number of nails for each row of shingles. This helps maintain a uniform look on the roof and ensures that the new shingles are properly secured to the underlying layer.

While some homeowners may be tempted to try and save money by simply overlaying the shingle or resealing it, this can lead to problems down the line, especially if the surrounding shingles are deteriorating as well. In addition, resealing or overlaying a damaged shingle can cause additional cracking and water penetration in other areas of the roof.

The most obvious clue that a shingle is in need of repair is visual damage. The most common signs of shingle damage include granule piles on the ground or in gutters, leaking or water stains on the ceiling and walls, or a curled-up appearance. Other symptoms of a damaged shingle are a blistered or brittle surface, the appearance of mold, or the presence of insect infestation.

If a shingle is simply cracked or torn, rather than needing replacement, it can be repaired with roof sealant. Using a caulking gun, apply a thick bead of sealant under the corner of the shingle and press it down. Spread a second bead of sealant over the area and cover it with a few shingle granules, which can help camouflage the repair.

Flashing

The flashing on a roof is one of its most important components. It prevents water from being forced beneath roofing materials and into a home, which can cause structural damage. It also helps to protect against rot and mold, which can result from leaking water. Flashing can be made of plastic or metal, and it is installed in places where the roof meets walls, chimneys, vents, skylights and other structures. Flashing may be buried within the roof, or it may be attached to the roof structure by nails. Flashing is usually hidden from view, and it can be difficult to spot problems.

Homeowners can check for flashing problems by looking for signs of rust or corrosion. They can also look for stains on ceilings or walls, dampness in the attic and recurrent leaks. If a flashing problem is left untreated, it can lead to more serious problems with the roof and other parts of the home.

There are many types of flashing, and each type is used in different ways. For example, shingle flashing is typically installed over the joints between shingles. Chimney flashing, on the other hand, is a single piece of metal that covers the base of a chimney. This type of flashing is vulnerable to leaks because it can’t flex with changing weather conditions.

Other types of flashing include step flashing, which is installed where a dormer or other protrusion meets the roof. This flashing consists of rectangles of metal bent into an L-shape and nailed to the roof and the wall of the dormer. The corners of the L-shape are then overlapped with shingles to provide a waterproof seal. Another type of flashing is continuous flashing, which is a long strip of metal that runs the length of the joint. This type of flashing is difficult to flex, and it can cause leaks if it’s not properly installed.

There are also concealed flashings, such as sill flashing, which is placed under doors and windows to prevent water from entering walls. Through-wall flashing is another type of flashing that spans the thickness of a wall and directs water into weep holes at the bottom of the wall.

Built-up roofing (BUR)

Built-up roofing (BUR) is a multi-layered commercial roof system that’s commonly found on flat and low-slope structures. Known for its resilience and efficiency, BUR offers architects, contractors, and building owners a wide range of design options that can fit a multitude of climates, environments, and applications. Its layered construction also provides redundancy, allowing for the protection of the building from weather and foot traffic even when one layer is damaged or compromised.

In addition to the layers of reinforcing fabrics and bitumen that grant BUR its waterproofing capabilities, the system can include a base sheet and gravel granules to provide the building with a strong foundation. This granule layer is typically saturated with asphalt to further protect the roof and ensure that water will remain on the surface rather than seep into the interior.

The next layer in a BUR system is a tar-based coating that’s applied to the entire roof. The tar is then covered with a layer of gravel to help hold the tar in place and prevent water infiltration. If a building owner prefers the appearance of a smooth roof, they can opt for a reflective coating instead of gravel.

BUR roofs have a reputation for being durable and long-lasting, which is why they’re still used today in many commercial buildings and facilities. Oftentimes, they require little upkeep beyond annual inspections and minor repairs until a full re-roof is required decades later. This minimal upkeep helps to save time and money for building owners, while also extending the life of their roofing system.

However, like any roof, BUR can experience issues with water leaks and other problems that affect the integrity of the structure. These can be caused by a number of factors, including UV exposure, direct hits from hail or falling branches, poor installation, or rough weather and climate conditions. The best way to deal with these problems is through routine maintenance that includes inspections of clogged drains and gutters, immediate repair of identified damages, cleaning debris from the roof, pruning trees overhanging the roof, meticulous examination of flashings and joints, and other proactive measures that can extend the lifespan of the BUR roof.

Siding

Many people across the US choose vinyl siding for their home’s exterior cladding due to it’s highly durable, cost-effective, and low-maintenance properties. However, like any other exterior material, it can experience damage from harsh weather conditions or from normal wear and tear over time. If you notice any cracks or holes in your vinyl siding, it’s important to contact a professional for repair work as soon as possible to prevent further issues and protect your home from water damage.

During roof repair, contractors will inspect the siding and gutters to make sure they’re in good condition and to find any other areas that need to be addressed. This may include trimming bushes or trees, covering outdoor electrical outlets, and removing any objects from around the house that could get in the way of easy access to the walls.

Inspecting the area where the roof meets the siding will also be part of the inspection process. This includes checking for any water damage, mold or mildew, or structural sagging. In addition, the contractor will test for leaks by spraying water on the sheathing and looking for any damp spots inside the home’s walls.

If you have any green stains on your siding, these are typically caused by mold, mildew, or algae and can be quite unsightly. These can be removed using special chemicals that kill the organisms and leave the siding clean and fresh again.

A final step in the siding replacement and repair process is to seal any openings where pipes or wires enter into the house. This will ensure that no rain or moisture can get in and cause further damage. It’s also a good idea to seal any cracks in the foundation, basement or crawl space of the home.

Roofing and siding are vital components of every house that protect it from the elements, impact its energy efficiency, and add to the overall curb appeal. They can be damaged by storms, heavy winds, and other environmental factors, so it’s important to have them inspected regularly by a trusted contractor to make repairs as needed.

Plumbing

Commercial and Residential Plumbers

Alice Mckee

Residential plumbers work on plumbing fixtures and water supply systems within homes. They also deal with sewer lines and garbage disposals.

Plumbers

When a drain becomes clogged with hair, soap scum, or other debris, residential plumbers can snake the drain and clear the blockage. They may also perform leak detection services. Visit https://www.plumbing-express.com/ to learn more.

Residential plumbers deal with the plumbing needs of homes and household systems. They typically work on fixtures like sinks, toilets, and bathtubs and repair issues such as leaks or clogged drains. They also service water heaters and ensure that wastewater is disposed of properly. Residential plumbers may also install new fixtures to update a home’s look or add functionality.

Because these plumbers serve homeowners directly, they must be able to communicate effectively with their customers and address their concerns in a friendly and understanding manner. They also must have extensive knowledge of plumbing codes and regulations to ensure that all plumbing work is up to code.

In addition to standard plumbing services, these plumbers often deal with problems that are unique to homes, such as garbage disposals, septic tanks, and water pressure issues. They are also trained to inspect plumbing systems and identify any potential issues before they become larger problems. Because of the wide range of skills and issues that residential plumbers must be able to handle, they typically earn higher wages than other types of plumbers.

The most common type of plumbing problem in homes is a leaking toilet or faucet. These issues are usually caused by worn-out washers or flappers that need to be replaced. It is important to call a residential plumber when these issues occur because they can fix them quickly and easily before the problem worsens.

Another common issue that residential plumbers deal with is a noisy toilet. This can be caused by several factors, including an overflowing tank or a buildup of debris in the trap. These plumbers are trained to diagnose and solve these problems quickly so that homeowners can get back to their daily routines.

In addition to dealing with traditional plumbing issues, these plumbers are also responsible for installing plumbing in new construction projects. This involves ensuring that all pipes and fixtures are connected correctly so that the building has a functioning plumbing system once it is finished. It is crucial that these plumbers have a strong attention to detail because even small mistakes can cause major issues later on. They must also be able to read blueprints and understand how all of the parts in a home’s plumbing system connect together.

Commercial Buildings

Residential plumbing deals with the plumbing systems that are found in homes and other private residences. It entails installing, repairing, and maintaining fixtures such as sinks, bathtubs, toilets, water heaters, drain lines, and more. It also involves services like water supply, septic systems, and sewer line repair. Commercial plumbing, on the other hand, deals with large-scale plumbing in commercial spaces such as restaurants, offices, and hotels. It involves more complex plumbing networks and specialized fixtures that are designed to meet the unique needs of these types of buildings.

The main difference between the two is that commercial plumbing typically deals with larger and more intricate systems than residential ones. This is because these kinds of buildings generally house more people than a typical home, which means there are more sinks, outlets, and toilets that need to be installed and maintained. Additionally, the plumbing in these types of buildings often must comply with stricter health and safety regulations than what is required in a home.

As such, the plumbing in a restaurant may need to include special features like sprayers for washing vegetables or urinals for men, while the plumbing in a skyscraper may need to be built with more durable materials that can withstand the increased amount of stress and use that it will endure. This is why it’s important for plumbers to have a wide variety of skills and experience under their belt, as well as to understand the complexities involved in working on different types of systems.

In addition, there are some distinct differences between residential and commercial plumbing in terms of customer interactions. While residential plumbers will often work directly with the homeowners that they serve, commercial plumbers will more frequently interact with building managers and other personnel who must approve any plumbing work before it can begin. This can be a challenge because it often slows down the process and makes it more difficult to get plumbing issues resolved in a timely manner.

Ultimately, the type of plumbing that you choose to focus on will depend on your skill set, confidence level, financial backing, and long-term goals. Starting out with residential clients is a great way to build up your experience and reputation, but it’s also possible to branch out into commercial work as you gain more knowledge and confidence in your abilities.

Commercial Plumbing Systems

In many ways, commercial plumbing systems are more complex than residential ones. This is because they have to support a larger number of people and use higher water volumes, as well as provide services such as urinals, drinking fountains, and heating systems. In addition, many commercial buildings have multiple floors and specialized fixtures that require unique installation and maintenance skills.

For example, a restaurant’s plumbing system needs to accommodate a lot of extra pipes and fixtures due to cooking, dishwashers, and washing machines. It also must be able to handle the flow of large numbers of people all eating at the same time. If any of these plumbing systems fail, it can create a major mess and lead to costly repairs.

Another aspect of commercial plumbing is that plumbers often have to work with other tradespeople to complete the job. For example, when a plumbing repair involves a kitchen or bathroom in a hotel, it could involve a team of builders, fitters, and electricians working together to fix the problem. If you’re looking for a commercial plumber, be sure to find one who has experience working on teams like this so that your plumbing problem is resolved as quickly and efficiently as possible.

When it comes to residential plumbing, most plumbers spend their time working on the pipes inside homes and private residences. They install and repair toilets, faucets, sinks, water heaters, and other appliances that make up the household plumbing system. They’re also responsible for waste, drain, and sewer line cleaning and repairs, as well as backflow prevention testing.

As such, they need to maintain a high level of customer service to keep their clients satisfied and happy. This is especially important in residential plumbing, as it gives plumbers the opportunity to build trusting relationships with their customers.

While both commercial and residential plumbing have their similarities, there are some key differences between the two. Commercial plumbing is usually larger in scale and can take longer to complete. This is because it may require more parts, tools, and equipment to get the job done right. Additionally, if a job is going to be expensive, a commercial plumber will likely need to consult with a supervisor or manager before starting the project.

Commercial Plumbing Issues

Commercial plumbing issues aren’t just inconvenient for building occupants; they can also be costly and even dangerous. Many problems are preventable with routine maintenance and quick action when they occur.

Some common commercial plumbing problems include clogged toilets, sewer backups and water heater issues. These can disrupt business operations and result in lost productivity and hefty repair bills. If you notice any of these problems, it’s best to call in a professional right away.

Leaks are another common problem that can be difficult to detect. If left unchecked, they can damage building structures, encourage mold growth and significantly increase utility bills. A professional plumber can test for leaks and recommend repairs.

In addition to promoting water conservation, it’s important for business owners to educate their employees about how to reduce the risk of plumbing problems. For example, it’s a good idea to hang signs in restrooms reminding people not to flush anything other than toilet paper (even products that claim to be “flushable” can cause clogs). It’s also a good idea to have regular inspections of the plumbing system and encourage employees to report any problems as soon as they’re noticed.

Large buildings have extensive piping networks that are subject to increased wear and tear due to higher usage. This makes them more prone to failure than residential properties. Pipes can crack, break or rupture and must be replaced as soon as possible to avoid further damage, water wastage and health hazards.

Businesses that rely on hot water for production or sanitation should have their water heaters regularly inspected, cleaned and repaired as needed. In addition to reducing the risk of damage and high energy bills, this practice can help businesses meet regulatory requirements. It’s also a good idea to install or upgrade to low-flow fixtures and appliances that can save water without sacrificing performance. It’s also a good idea for businesses to have a disaster recovery plan in place in case of a plumbing emergency. This includes designating an offsite location where critical documents can be stored and having a professional plumber on call to handle any immediate problems.

Landscaping

The Benefits of Landscaping

Alice Mckee

Landscapers plan and install outdoor features such as retaining walls, paths, patios, water features and garden sculptures. They also maintain these elements to ensure they always look their best.

Landscaping

A well-designed and maintained landscape can increase the resale value of your home or commercial property. It can even provide many benefits to your health and happiness. Contact Prime Cut Lawn And Landscaping for professional help.

A green space is an area of grass, trees, shrubs or flowers set apart for recreation and beauty in an urban context. They include public parks with walking or biking lanes, street trees and planters in the cityscape, community gardens, backyards, and vacant lots that have been converted to greenery. Green spaces improve the quality of life and promote human well-being by boosting mood, increasing social interactions, and providing a refuge from noise pollution. They also provide a range of environmental benefits, such as removing toxic chemicals and pollutants from the air and reducing the effects of climate change.

A growing body of research links green spaces to increased mental health and better cognition, lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease, reducing stress levels and improving sleep quality. Green spaces are also known to reduce feelings of anger, aggression and anxiety, and combat symptoms of seasonal affective disorder. Studies also suggest that green spaces can increase productivity and enhance creativity and attention spans.

Having access to green spaces is especially important for individuals with lower incomes. During the pandemic, researchers found that children from low-income families spent less time outside in parks and on trails than their peers who belonged to higher socioeconomic groups. This is likely due to barriers like segregated city planning, zoning laws, lack of transportation, and discrimination. Fortunately, it’s possible to create and expand green spaces in cities with limited space by incorporating them into urban landscapes and planning for a diverse mix of species that thrives in the cityscape.

Green spaces are also great for promoting socialization and community engagement, which can help people feel more connected with each other. These areas can serve as an informal gathering place for friends, families, neighbors and colleagues, and can be used to organize group activities such as gardening or exercising together.

In addition, green spaces can be an excellent way to alleviate urban heat islands that can cause respiratory illness and even death in vulnerable populations. Green spaces cool the air by absorbing and diffusing heat, providing shade, and releasing moisture to the atmosphere. These features are crucial for a healthy urban environment.

Mental Health

In recent years, the focus on mental health has been increasing. Various studies have shown that spending time in nature can improve mental health. It can also reduce stress, boost mood, and increase self-esteem. However, many people are unable to find time to spend in nature due to busy lifestyles. Fortunately, landscaping can help make it easier for individuals to get more time in nature.

Landscaping can create a relaxing environment that can reduce stress levels and promote physical activity. It can also improve air quality by removing pollutants and improving oxygen levels. This can be especially beneficial for individuals who suffer from conditions like asthma and allergies. Incorporating green space into commercial buildings and offices can decrease work-related stress and increase employee morale.

Another way that landscaping can promote mental health is by encouraging social interaction. A beautifully landscaped yard can be the perfect place for families and friends to gather and enjoy each other’s company. This can help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation, which are common among people with mental health issues. In addition, the act of working on landscaping projects can be therapeutic for individuals. Gardening is an activity that engages all of the senses and provides a sense of accomplishment when it is finished.

Incorporating a patio or outdoor seating area into the design of your landscaping can provide a quiet spot for relaxation and meditation. It can also be used as a place to host therapy sessions with a mental health professional.

Landscapers are often the guardians of these outdoor sanctuaries, ensuring that they stay lush and beautiful. These professionals are trained to enhance green spaces and create serene retreats that promote mental well-being. They are also the ones who mow lawns, water plants, and maintain a healthy ecosystem that promotes healing.

Whether it’s an office building, hospital, or private home, the right landscaping can help to alleviate stress and promote a healthier lifestyle. By creating a peaceful environment, promoting physical activity, providing a space for social interaction, and improving air quality, landscaping can have a positive impact on mental health and wellness.

Reduced Stress

Landscapes are a visual representation of a region and are the dynamic backdrop to life. They have a powerful impact on people’s psychological, physiological and neurological responses to stressors.

The landscape can reduce stress by providing a peaceful escape to the outdoors where natural features such as plants and trees have been proven to help lower blood pressure, improve mood, increase cognitive function and provide physical activity that relieves stress. Several studies have also found that the colors of green spaces can have a calming effect.

Landscaping is a form of gardening that involves the addition of structures like walkways, water features, decks, and more to an outdoor space. It is often done to create a unified and cohesive look that suits the style of a home or business. This is accomplished by using a variety of plant species that are strategically placed to compliment one another and create a flowing, harmonious design.

A well-designed landscape can also provide benefits such as improved air quality, noise reduction, and increased property value. Including plants that filter out pollution and promote healthier indoor environments can also help to improve a person’s mental health and overall well-being.

Having a healthy work environment is vital for landscapers. Stress can be a real issue in the industry, especially during hot summers when the bulk of their work takes place. Creating a company culture that is open to discussing mental health and provides resources to assist employees in staying healthy can help reduce stress levels.

Landscaping can also be used to prevent soil erosion, which is a huge problem in many areas. The roots of grass and other plants hold the soil together, preventing it from washing away into rivers and streams where it can cause flooding and pollution. Landscaping can be done to prevent erosion by adding plants that are suited to the area and by implementing strategies such as aeration, dethatching, or pruning to keep the soil healthy.

Low Maintenance

Whether you’re a homeowner with a busy schedule or a landlord looking for ways to improve your property’s curb appeal, low maintenance landscaping is a great solution. These strategies are easy to implement and won’t break the bank. They also help reduce water usage, which can save you money on your utility bills.

The first step in creating low maintenance landscaping is to do your research and understand what plants work well together. This way, you can create layers of color and texture that will look great all year round. You can even choose native species that are adapted to your climate and soil. These will grow best with less upkeep than exotic flowers that require constant watering and attention.

Next, you can try adding ground cover to your landscape. Clover, for example, is a good choice as it doesn’t need to be mowed and reduces the amount of bare dirt in your yard. Another option is moss, which is both beautiful and hardy. It can tolerate moderate foot traffic, doesn’t need water and looks great all year round.

Finally, you can use mulch in your garden to suppress weeds and prevent erosion. Mulch will also help the plants retain moisture, which means you won’t have to water as frequently. There are many different types of mulch available, including wood bark and recycled rubber tires. If you opt for organic mulch, it will last longer and help deter bugs that can damage your landscape.

You can also consider incorporating more hardscaping elements into your landscape. This includes walkways, patios, sitting areas and borders made of brick, pavers, river rocks or wood. These features will reduce the amount of surface area you have to mow and trim, as well as eliminate the need for weeding.

You can also replace the grass in your yard with low maintenance plants like succulents. These are related to cacti and have thick, fleshy leaves that can store water. They can withstand dry, hot conditions and are often drought-tolerant. They don’t need a lot of water or fertilization and can be trimmed, pruned or deadheaded without much effort.

Movers

What Movers Do

Alice Mckee

Movers are professional companies that offer a variety of moving services. These include local and long-distance moving, packing and storage. They also provide specialty services, such as furniture disassembly and assembly.

Movers

When choosing a mover, read reviews and compare prices. Pay special attention to consistency and look for additional information such as credentials (DOT number for interstate moves, state licenses for local moves). Also, make sure that the quote includes all possible charges.

The packing process is one of the most time-consuming aspects of moving. If you have a lot of items to pack, it can be even more time-consuming. Fortunately, there are options available for families who want to hire movers to do some or all of the packing. Most professional moving companies offer full and partial packing services, as well as custom crating for oversized or fragile items. Some companies also provide storage containers. These can be a convenient option if you need to store some of your belongings for a few weeks or months during the move.

If you decide to hire a mover to pack for you, make sure that they are licensed and insured. It’s also a good idea to review the company’s website to learn about their policies and rates. You should also ask for a written estimate that includes the price of labor, packing materials and any additional services that you may need.

It’s also a good idea to start packing things ahead of time. If you know that you’re going to be moving, start by packing off-season clothing and items that you don’t use often. You can also start with books, seasonal sports gear and other non-essentials. By starting early, you can get a jump on the process and avoid rushing on moving day.

While your movers are packing, don’t try to micro-manage them. They are professionals, and they know how to pack everything safely and efficiently. Trying to second-guess their work can slow them down and cost you money. In addition, it can be stressful for you and your movers.

During the packing process, it’s important to keep your movers fed and watered. Make sure that there’s a bowl of ice-cold water on the counter and some snacks for them to snack on. This will ensure that they’re happy and productive during the process. In addition, it will show them that you appreciate their hard work.

To help your movers save time, make sure that you label each box clearly. It’s a good idea to write your name, the room that it’s packed from and what is inside on the top and sides of the box. It will also help you find your boxes more easily when they’re stacked up in your new home. You can also add a piece of colored tape to each box, which will make it easier to distinguish between boxes. This way, you won’t accidentally open a box that contains your fragile items and break them. Also, consider using t-shirts or blankets to wrap smaller items. These are cheaper and more environmentally friendly than plastic wrap. Additionally, they can be reusable.

Loading

The way in which movers load a moving truck is important for both the optimization of space and the safety of your belongings. The heaviest and largest items are loaded first, followed by the smallest and lightest boxes. This prevents the heavy items from crushing and damaging smaller boxes during transportation. Long items, like long mirrors and headboards, should be positioned against the longest walls of the trailer to keep them upright. This also helps prevent them from being smashed or damaged by the back of the truck when driving over potholes or turning corners quickly.

The heaviest and largest items include mattresses, sofas, beds and appliances. They are placed on the bottom of the truck, followed by the smallest and lightest items. This method of loading prevents the heaviest and largest items from crushing or damaging the smaller, lighter boxes on top. It also allows the movers to easily reach the highest boxes without straining or climbing on top of the heaviest items.

After the heaviest and largest items are loaded, the movers will begin loading the square furniture pieces. They will wrap the pieces with pads and plastic wrap for protection during transport. After the furniture is loaded, they will stack the boxes on top of them. They will also affix the boxes with straps to secure them during transit. This process ensures that your belongings are safely transported to your new home or business.

In addition to loading your belongings, movers will also assist with disassembling and reassembling your large pieces of furniture. This can save you time and money when moving to a new house or office. This service is especially useful for large items like grandfather clocks, china cabinets and gun safes. This process requires advanced equipment and expertise to ensure that your items are loaded and secured for safe transport.

Moving companies that provide high-rise services have special experience with loading and unloading items from high locations such as condos or warehouses. These professionals know how to navigate tight spaces and lift large items with precision and safety. They also have the expertise to crate and rig large and delicate items for safe transportation.

Loading a moving truck can be difficult, but it doesn’t have to be. You can enlist the help of friends or family members to help you load the truck, or you can hire a professional moving company that offers a “load-only” service. Many movers are experienced in loading a variety of different types of trucks and containers, including Uhaul, Penske, PODS, and Enterprise.

When hiring a moving company to help you load your belongings into a truck or container, be sure to ask for their rates and availability. If you have a specific timeframe, be sure to give them as much notice as possible so they can accommodate your needs.

Transportation

The transportation process for movers involves driving the shipment from the origin to the destination. This usually happens in a van line or through a freight carrier. The transportation process also includes providing delivery and pickup services to the customers for an additional charge. uShip offers a variety of transporters with competitive rates and service options including delivery and pickup services for an added fee.

Full-service movers move all of your household goods from the origin to the destination, and they will provide packing and unpacking services for an additional cost. They will wrap all of your items for protection, and they will place them in rooms in your new home according to your instructions. They will also dispose of all of the packaging materials for you, and they can even handle the reassembling of large furniture.

Shuttle Service

If your residence is not accessible to the vehicles that your professional movers will use to move your household goods, shuttle service may be necessary. Shuttle service uses a smaller vehicle to “shuttle” your household goods between the house and the truck, and you will be charged for this service.

Non-allowable List Items that your moving company refuses to move because they will contaminate or damage other shipments or the moving company’s property. These items may include paint, varnish, and cleaning solvents.

Inventory – A detailed description of your household goods that is used to estimate the weight of your shipment and the charges that will apply.

Pricing – The final price of your move, which is based on the estimated shipment weight and the requested accessorial services. This is a binding estimate, which means that the mover will not change the price unless you agree to a revised price in writing.

Fuel Surcharge – A surcharge for higher fuel prices that the moving company must pass on to its customers.

Minimum Carrier Liability – An option for moving consumers who want the mover to be liable for no more than 60 cents per pound of lost or damaged goods. This option is available only with certain service levels and is subject to a minimum shipment weight requirement.

Before hiring a moving company, double-check its credentials, including the company’s Department of Transportation number for interstate moves and state-specific licenses for local moves. Also, make sure that the company is insured for damage to your goods while in transit. It is also a good idea to compare quotes and look at the breakdown of services provided. Keep in mind that cheaper is not necessarily better, and it’s important to take into account extra fees, such as those for gas and labor. Also, be sure to check a moving company’s complaint history with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).