#window seal repair near me

[beardedhideoutmilkshake]

How to Seal Windows from Bugs

Sealing your windows effectively can keep unwanted bugs out and maintain a comfortable living environment. Here’s a quick guide on how to do it:

Inspect and Clean: Start by inspecting the window frames and sills for any gaps, cracks, or damaged areas where bugs could enter. Clean the area thoroughly to remove dirt, dust, and debris, ensuring a smooth surface for sealing.

Choose the Right Sealant: Use a high-quality silicone or polyurethane sealant that is durable and weather-resistant. These materials are excellent for sealing gaps and preventing bug entry.

Apply Weather stripping: For movable parts of the window, such as sashes, apply adhesive-backed weather stripping. This flexible material helps to seal gaps when the window is closed.

Caulk the Gaps: Use a caulking gun to apply a continuous bead of sealant along the edges of the window frame, where it meets the wall. Pay special attention to corners and joints. Smooth the sealant with a caulk smoothing tool or a damp finger.

Install Screens: Ensure that window screens are in good condition and fit snugly in the frame. Repair or replace any damaged screens to provide an additional barrier against bugs.

Maintain Seals: Regularly check the seals around your windows and reapply sealant or weather stripping as needed to keep them effective over time.

By following these steps, you can effectively seal your windows from bugs, creating a more comfortable and bug-free home environment.

[gripefroot]

Fire Night

For once, his timing is impeccable. 

Not that you’d ever turned him away, of course, or even said anything temptingly snarky when he showed up while you were digging out mud from a creek bank and covered in leeches, or once, before dawn when you’d been passed out cold and therefore screamed like a banshee when he tapped on your bedroom window. 

But this. You could get used to this. 

Kiln nights can be a challenge, taking days to properly prepare and execute. Chopping wood for fuel, repairing the stone oven a quarter-mile from your cottage where it was safe to keep the blazes going for days on end to fire your pottery. Carrying the glazed pieces from the cottage to the kiln. Building the fire. Keeping it going through a night and a day and a night on very, very little sleep; because rest doesn’t compare to getting paid. 

Repairing the stone oven remains your job. But Law has spent all afternoon with a wheelbarrow bringing loads of wood to dump near the oven. He’d doffed his shirt almost immediately, already tanning in the sweltering summer sun. Kiln nights are miserable if the weather is too cold; but summer makes sitting close to the oven all night tending the fire miserable, too. 

Every crack sealed, you sit up from the grass and rub mud from your hands. 

Not exactly the hands of a lover, but he’d never minded. 

“Is this enough?” Law asks. His sixteenth load of wood. Not that you’d been counting. Or watched his backside when he’d walked away for more each time. Sweat glistens on his face as he wipes his brow with his forearm, eyes bright as he looks you up and down. As if laying belly-down on the grass and elbow-deep in mud is exactly what he admires most in a woman.  

“Yes,” you admit. 

“Finally.”

“But,” you say. His shoulders deflate by a centimeter. “I need to bring down the items to go in the oven,” you tell him, amusement bubbling up. It seems obvious to you. 

“How many?” Law wanders over to crouch beside you, his nearness making your heart jump a little. Without a word he licks his thumb and drags it across your cheekbone. The mud must have splattered you at some point. 

“All of them.”

“All?”

“All,” you tell him ruefully. “It’s less work to do it in one big batch.”

Law’s expression is nothing short of incredulous. “All,” he repeats. You give into the temptation to laugh, nearly blocking out his next grumble: “You have five shelves in your house. All of them?” 

“You can keep asking, but I’m not going to change my mind,” you tease. “Why did you think I was so happy to see you this morning that I jumped on you?” 

He purses his lips, making a show of rubbing his backside where he’d landed after said jump. “Slave labor,” Law says. 

“It’s not slavery if you’re willing,” you say. 

“Keep that logic to yourself.” He tugs on a clump of your hair. “Fine. I’ll get all of your pots and things. But I’m cheating.” 

“I’m surprised it took you this long to cheat.” 

Law stands, brushing dirt and feathery bits from trees off of his jeans. “How could I have cheated when you keep sneaking looks at me like I’m a three-tier cake you’re going to eat tonight?” he asks, brows raised. 

“I was subtle!” you protest. The air goes funny and shimmery, echoing his laugh as he disappears from the glade in the blink of an eye. A thump draws your attention: one of your galoshes for mud-digging appears right where he’d been standing. “He’s taking that back, too,” you say, to no one in particular, and stand to wash your hands in the creek. 

Embers rush into the dusky sky to promptly fade, spinning back down to the earth. They’re snuffed beneath your feet, or your knees, or Law’s feet, or his knees. The oven barely fits all the pots, nestled together as close as is reasonably safe, before you’d sealed it with a final brick and more mud to keep the heat inside. Law works the bellows, blue and white flames spurting out of the top to chase the embers. 

“Hot enough?” he asks. His face is red, glistening in the glow from the oven. 

Carefully you pick your way to the oven as close as you can bear, leaning over to peer inside the chimney. “It’s glowing,” you say. “It’s enough for now, but we’ll have to bring it back up in thirty minutes or so.”

Law blew out a breath, sitting on his haunches. He’d worked hard all day alongside you, and it shows. It shows in his tired eyes. It shows in his strained smile. But any smile from him is a treasure. 

“Thirty minutes,” he repeats. “What should we do while we wait?” 

“Rest, probably,” you tell him. 

“I want to know if I’ve earned anything from you.” His eyes hone in on yours. 

“Don’t tell me, Law,” you say, walking around the oven in his direction, “that you only broke your back on my behalf today for something as small as a kiss.”

“I’m hoping for more than a kiss.” As soon as you reach him, his arm snakes out to wind around your thigh, holding you close. His face by your knee is a beautiful sight, orange in the reflection of the fire with deep shadows from the lengthening night around. His hand strokes up your thigh, you run your fingers through his thick, damp hair. 

“I have an idea,” you say softly. “Let’s take a quick dip in the river and then come back.”

Law’s brow arches. “Yeah?” 

“Yeah. Let’s set up my bedroll far enough away from the oven that we aren’t sweating.”

He breaks out into a grin. “We’ll sweat.”

“Yes, but not from heat, if you catch my drift.” 

“I do.” His fingers find the waistband of your pants. “I do catch your drift.” 

No one from town ever comes this far up the river at night. They don’t need to. So you strip off your shirt and pants by the bank, wading in stark-naked. The cool water hits your skin with a hiss, goosebumps pebbling across your body. Once up to your hips, you turn, trailing your fingers through the water to splash your front. 

“Aren’t you coming?” you call back. Law is mid-doff at the riverbank, jeans partway down his knees. He’s staring. With a laugh you crook a finger to get him to hurry up. It jolts him into action, tugging his jeans the rest of the way off. Then the air shimmers, and a second later his body is pressed up against yours in the middle of the river. 

“I’m coming, all right.” The words are muttered in your ear before his teeth sink into your shoulder. It only makes you shiver more, torn between the chilly water and Law’s heated body. The only problem is your front is cold and your back is hot. So you spin, trading sensations. His hands land on your hips, his half-smile visible in the night. 

“Well,” you say, lifting your arms out of the water. Droplets fall back, plunk-plunk-plunking into the stream while you wrap your arms around his neck. “While I’m here…” 

Little washing is accomplished. It cools you off, and rinses some sweat from his body and yours, but other than that? It’s forgotten in a tender, long-anticipated kiss that makes you hot all over again. He must be more impatient at the delay than he’d acted, because his long fingers waste no time digging into your rear end beneath the water, a low groan sounding in his throat. 

That groan makes your skin skitter in anticipation, heat blooming deep inside. He’s slick from the water, and warm and solid. When his tongue is at the seam of your lips, you let him in with a gasp, tasting pine and man. Traipsing around the woods all day has made him delicious. More delicious than usual. The sensual way he kisses reminds you of his tongue elsewhere; stroking deep and slow while his hands coast up your spine. 

“Law,” you choke out when his mouth goes to your throat to bite down hard enough to make you shiver. “Oh, Law. We can’t do this in a river.”

“Why not?” The question is a rumble in his chest, vibrating against yours. One hand on your rear, his other comes up to cup a breast, squeezing with your nipple pinned between his thumb and index finger.

Why not? Why not what? What had you asked? It had seemed so important then…but now, putty in his hands, you can’t remember what it is or why you’d cared. 

Down his chest, tracing the muscles. Your hand finds his erection, slipping beneath it to seize the sack. He grunts, thrusting forward as you laugh, and laugh, and laugh. He likes it. Especially now. Law pulls away, his eyelids lowered but not far enough for you not to see the sparkling stars reflected in the dark depths. 

“Someone’s greedy,” he says. 

“You started it,” you tease back. 

His lips tighten in a line. But he’s not grumpy about it. Not really. Especially when your fingers curl around the base of his cock, giving a tug that makes him sway. 

“Alright,” he grumbles. “Alright. You win.” 

Law bends over, hoisting you up and out of the river until you’re pistoned on his shoulder, the bone digging into your belly. Your shriek of surprise echoes down the river. Hopefully no one comes running. 

One sloshing step after another to the bank. Then out, clothes forgotten as he strides to the oven. Drips of water patter onto the ground. His free hand strokes up the back of your thigh, then gives your rear a whack that makes you squirm. 

“Not nice,” you huff. He’s too tall for you to reach his backside to retaliate. Not nice, and not fair. 

Despite his manhandling, Law sets you down gently, holding you up until he’s sure that your legs are bearing your weight. Then, grinning, he finds your bedroll in a pack of supplies that you’d brought that morning. The night air is not kind to wet skin. You wrap your arms around yourself, shivering. And then you inch closer to the oven, radiating heat even from ten feet away. 

He shakes out the bedroll, laying it down. He’s never been a shy man. Not with his body, at least. But the sight of him standing fully nude and fully erect in the orange glow of the oven…your cheeks warm. His teeth gleam in the darkness. 

“I’ll warm you up,” he says, offering a hand. 

Too chilly to play coy, you bound across the space between you and him to encase yourself in his open arms. A clumsy kiss lasts all of two seconds before he bends at the knee, cradling you to carry you down, down, down. 

It’s practice or skill or instinctual; your legs cradling him as he nudges his hips into meet yours. The clumsy kiss lengthens, lips parting to drink each other in, with his hands everywhere. On your jaw, on your breasts, on your hips. Then, finally, with a jolt that drags a moan from your throat, his fingers dip between your legs. 

His breath is hot on your ear, your fingernails digging into his back for all you’re worth. “I missed this,” he sighed, catching your earlobe in his teeth. 

“Me - too.” The words are a gasp. His fingers slide sleekly against your sex; flaring up desire that already burns. “Law,” you breathe, hands moving up to plunge into his messy hair. “Oh, Law.” 

“Like I said. Greedy.” His chuckle is low and dangerous. “But I am too. Makes me crazy, y’know? Knowing you want me so bad. Knowing you’re here when I’m at sea and all I have to do is change my course, and in a matter of days I can be right here, inside you, where I need to be…”

Dizzy, you scarcely notice when his fingers pull away to be replaced by his cock. He’s slow to enter, rocking against you with his lips fastened to your neck. Each tiny thrust drives a groan out of him, and a gasp out of you. Tucking your knees higher, you reach down to hold onto him; to drag him in further - 

But he growls, grabbing your wrist in his. “No,” Law said roughly. Half inside of you, he pulls away, glaring down at you. “I’ll be moving at my own pace.” 

If his stubbornness didn’t guarantee your pleasure, you’d fight back. Nip back at him the way he nips at your fingers as if in reminder. He threads his fingers through yours, pressing your hand into the ground. Then he starts to move again, inch by inch; slow enough that your core twitches for more. You want to be full, he can fill you, but why does Law have to be such a tease? 

“That’s better,” he purrs, as if reading your emotion in your face. He smirks ear to ear, eyes never moving from yours as he pushes into you. 

“I like to touch you,” you say. 

“So do I.” 

“I wish you’d let me.” 

“Maybe I’ll let you later.” Pain in the rear as he was, Law tilts his body off of yours to wriggle his arm out, and yours, to properly pin down your opposite hand above your head, too. If his fingers weren’t so blasted long he might not get away with it, but he manages to hold you with one hand. The other, he trails down your cheek, your neck, and to your breast, which he cups. 

“I like to touch you,” he breathes. His nose brushes against yours, a tender display that makes your heart squeeze. “Thanks for letting me.” 

You stick your tongue out. He laughs. 

“That’s how I know you like being right where you are,” Law says. “You resort to being petty. You know I’m gonna make it worth your while, right?”

Yes. You do. 

“There we go.” His voice lowers to a whisper. “I can see it in your eyes, you know. The way you ache.” He draws his hips back, thrusting deeper inside. Your back arches against him, but his grip on your hands never lessens. Instead he bends over to match your angle, tongue against your lips. 

How he manages to have so much self-control boggles your mind. He’d wanted this all day just as much as you, yet he holds himself back. How? How? 

“Law.” It’s little more than a whimper. “Please.” 

“I know. I’ve got you.” This time the words are strained. Was he breaking at last? By the jerk in his hips that finally, finally seats him fully inside of you, you think he might. 

Law doesn’t tease anymore. He doesn’t coax, he doesn’t seduce. No. His mouth is hot on yours, every pant of breath filling your mouth as you kiss him, kiss him, use every ounce of your strength that’s available to welcome him inside. The ground is uneven against your back; the oven crackles, wind rushes through the tree branches above…

And the deep heat uncoils between your legs, building with each skillful thrust until he feels larger and thicker than ever. The only noise you can make is a long, drawn out “O - o - o - oh” that he must recognize, because he doesn’t slow, doesn’t change. Heartbeats later the pleasure rakes through your body in a single, cresting wave; starting and ending where he’s joined with you. 

“Good girl.” The words crack from his mouth, his tone deep. “I knew you could do it.” 

A few more, slowing thrusts send shooting stars through your veins, gasping for air while your heart batters in your chest. Then, finally, he stops, buried deep inside while his hands loosen on your wrists. 

“There.” Law grins. “Not so bad to let me do my thing?” 

“Well!” Your cheeks are hot, and his are red. “I’ve never been a man but I’m not convinced that takes too much skill. Just humping, really.” 

He stares. Humor tickles, making your lips twitch. 

“Just humping?” he repeats. 

“Now, if you’d licked me first,” you shrug, pretending angelic innocence as his expression darkens. “Or done more with your hands…” 

“You’re impossible, you know that?”

“Impossible! I’m simply stating that you can exhibit your skill in so many other ways.” 

It works. Law’s jaw clenches, a growl between his bared teeth. He throws himself back onto his haunches, leaving you bare and a little cold, until he grabs your ankle to pull you towards him. 

“Just humping,” he mutters. The last thing you see are his narrowed eyes, the challenge sizzling in them. In a single moment, he flips you onto your belly, the scratchiness of the bedroll far too pleasurable on your nipples than should be allowed. You plant your palms on the ground to hoist yourself up, but his hand pushes down on your spine. “Just humping,” he says again. 

“Just humping,” you say. Smugly you glance over your shoulder, just in time to see him rise to his knees. He pulls your hips up with him, tracing around the flesh of your buttocks with a growing smile. He meets your eyes in a brief, stunning moment. 

“You menace,” Law says. “You wanted this.” 

“A lady never tells.” Stretching out like a cat, you push yourself against him with a pretend yawn. His intake of breath is audible, the strangled noise like music to your ears. 

He can be in control all he wants, but it doesn’t change his weaknesses. And you happen to be acquainted with his weaknesses. Intimately. 

Law starts slow again, but picks up faster, holding onto you for the ride while the bedroll scrapes against your skin. With nothing to hold onto, you make fists instead, letting the pleasure drive everything else from your mind. All that matters is him and you and you and him, and how perfect he feels and how wonderful you feel and how much better everything is when he’s here…

It could have been an hour later, or three, dozing off naked and side-by-side beneath the sky while the embers burst like fireworks against the inky blackness. He lays on his back, you curled against him, his fingers tracing lazy patterns down your back. Sleep swarms, but you brush it away. 

It’s Fire Night, after all. 

“Our clothes are still at the river,” you mumble blearily. 

“Oops.” He doesn’t sound even a little repentant. 

“I don’t want to add more wood to the fire nude. What if I get burned?” 

Law sighs, then with a groan pushes himself to an elbow. Facing the glow of the oven, his features blur handsomely with a smile just for you. You smile back, tracing the line of facial hair down his chin. Fondly he pats your rear. 

“I’ll get the clothes,” he says. “But then you have to add the wood.” 

If he feels like he won, then that’s fine with you. Because this false competition only makes it easier to make excuses, easier to be sweet, and easier to pretend like it isn’t love.

[that-kenlee-guy]

Here he is, S4 Kenny post car-crash because S3 bullshit for killing him still fills me with spite several years later^^ (hair is tucked inside when outside of camps) Thank you to my friend Ditzy for helping me make him

It was all in an instant, a flash one could say. He laid there on the cold pavement, shards of glass lodged in his hand and cuts litering his face. Vision blurred and hearing muffled, yet Clementine cries were still heard clear as day. She rushed by his side and tried to help him, but he panicked. He couldn't feel his legs, his body wouldn't listen to him. She assumed it was a good thing, but in reality, it wasn't.

Clementine tried to summon her strength, begged her muscles to pull Kenny back to the car as walkers surrounded the duo like a pack of wolves. Death draws near, just a few yards away before being devoured by rotting monsters. To make matters worse, AJ's frighten cries attracted some to the car. The situation turned grim as time grew shorter each second that passes.

He pushes her out the way and took a shot at a walker that snuck up on her. He begged her to leave, to save AJ and leave him behind. That angered her, skin turning red and tears stinging Clementine’s eyes. She drew her weapon and fired some shots at the walkers banging on the car window. She screamed, shouted, tore Kenny apart when he told her to leave him behind.

He was certain that his tale ended here, but Clementine claimed he was wrong. She brought up the past. How Kenny escaped dying twice, stared down in the maws of death with frighten eyes, yet proceed to stick his head in the darkness to see the light at the end of the void. She said he wasn't Kenny. The Kenny she knew wouldn't give up. The Kenny she knew stepped over the line of morality and did whatever it took. Rather if it was good or bad, even if some viewed him as a monster, even if some viewed him as a savior. he do it all again if it meant to live the next day, for him and his loved ones. That's who Kenny was to Clementine, not this man groveling on the streets.

He was speechless as the world froze for a second. He saw everything in that short moment. The situation he's in, AJ in danger, Clementine trying to drag him, and his broken legs. He grit his teeth, he balled his fist, his blood boiled as flipped himself over and aimed. He took two more clean shots at walkers approaching the car. He watched them fall as he began to crawl to the vehicle. Clementine was right, this wasn't who he was. Kenny didn't care if he was just a head on a chair, he won't stop until he's locked behind the gates of hell. And even if he was, he'll bust right out. He isn't a quitter and definitely not now.

As Clementine provided cover, Kenny made his way to the car. However, the vehicle will not move, even if he does manages to repair it. Out of options, they locked themselves inside as walkers surrounded them. Windows on the verge of breaking with only a few rounds left. But just when all hope was lost, a roar of another car came. Someone swerved sharp, slamming into some walkers and smacking them away for the windows.

Their eyes couldn't believe what they were seeing. A friend they were sure died came to their rescue, Arthur. He gave them a clear opening to get inside and they wasted no time climbing in the backseat and make their escape. When they made distance, they made a discovery that Kenny was bitten on his leg. Not afraid of losing already paralyzed leg, they removed it before the infection spread. After sealing the wound, Arthur took them to a small camp. In a matter of hours, he returned with a wheelchair specialized for traveling and different terrain for Kenny. It fitted nicely for him as he sat AJ in his lap, promising him and Clementine that nothing will stop him from leaving their side, even himself.

[by-speaker]

Haunted Hose (ENG. VER.)

Prompts by @raven-cincaide-words

Missa and Philza had moved into their dream house, a beautiful Victorian gothic mansion. It was old, it was mossy on the outside, the door was falling off its hinges, and it was missing a couple of panes of glass in the windows, but it was all theirs. 

‘Are you excited?’ asked Phil to his boyfriend, parking his big torino in the driveway, ’It needs a couple of repairs, but it's all ours.’ 

‘It's literally my dream house,’ Missa said with a big smile, ’I really can't believe we were able to buy it.’ 

Phil laughed and gave him a quick kiss on the lips, ‘It looks like it's haunted.’ He said laughing. 

Missa punched him in the arm, ‘don't say that shit.’ The Mexican shrieked. 

Philza rubbed his arm, ‘Alright, alright, no more haunted house jokes.’ He said with a laugh 

‘Come on, let's get in.’ 

They both got out of the car, and headed for the entrance, the door was sealed with some boards, but there was a piece of wood missing from underneath.  

‘We have to replace the door,’ Philza said after pushing it open. 

Missa laughed, but ran into the hallway, the inside of the house was not dilapidated, in fact the inside was in almost perfect condition, the house had belonged to an old woman who had made sure her house didn't fall apart, but because of her age she couldn't do much about the outside. 

‘Well, it could be worse.’ Missa said. 

‘Yes, you're right.’ Said Phil, ‘it could be haunted’ he said, making ghost sounds.

‘Don't joke about that any more,’ the Mexican shrieked again, ’you respect the dead.’ 

‘Sorry, sorry,’ said Phil giving him a resounding kiss on the cheek, ’Now what? Shall we clean up or eat first?’ 

‘Mhmmm, let's clean up, I'm going to order for lunch, Chinese, or pizza?’ 

‘Pizza is a good idea,’ said Phil, ’I'll start with the kitchen, you clean up the living room and the 2 of us do the bedroom?’

‘Yeah, that’s alright,’ said Missa giving his boyfriend a quick kiss and going to clean the living room. 

So they both started cleaning, Missa had made sure to check every nook and cranny of the old living room and had even lit a summary, to make sure there were no evil spirits or bad energies in the house. What looked a little out of place were the toys and clothes that were drying, plus the fireplace looked like it had been used recently.  

Strange, very strange.

‘Phil?’ he shouted to get his boyfriend's attention, ’Did you see this when you came to see the house?’ 

Philza walked into the living room, he was wearing that green scarf he used in his hair when he cleaned, ‘Oh, yes, those things were here, apparently the lady looked after the orphans that fell into the lake near here.’ 

‘Oh,’ said Missa sighing, ’I thought… don't forget it.’ 

‘Ghosts?’ said Phil with an evil grin on his face. 

Missa frowned, ‘Don't joke about that.’ He said, taking the broom and finishing sweeping, ‘Are you done with the kitchen?’ 

‘Almost done.’

The sound of a boat whistle startled them both, ‘I think it's the pizza.’ 

They both laughed, Philza went to get the pizza while he moved the coffee table closer to the couch. Missa smiled as her boyfriend came dancing in with two boxes of pizza and a bottle of ice-cold glass coke in his hands. 

‘Dinner’ said Phil, in the same tone as Maui sings it in the Moana movie.  

‘Thank you’ said Missa receiving one of the boxes. 

‘You're welcome’ said Phil with a smile, plopping down on the couch. 

Missa sat next to Phil on the couch, both eagerly opening their pizza boxes.

‘Mmm, smells delicious,’ Missa said, taking a slice. ‘Nothing like pizza after a day of cleaning.’

Phil nodded, his mouth already full of pizza. He swallowed and said, ‘Definitely. Hey, what do you say we start unpacking the boxes tomorrow? We could start giving this place a more personal touch.’

‘Sounds perfect to me,’ Missa replied. ‘I've got lots of ideas for decorating. Remember those pictures we bought at the flea market?’

‘Oh, yeah,’ Phil said, taking a sip of coke. ‘They're going to look great in the living room.’

As they ate and chatted, a subtle noise came from the back of the house. It sounded like someone had tripped over something.

Missa stopped mid-bite. ‘Did you hear that?’

Phil cocked his head, listening. ‘Probably some animal outside. Maybe a raccoon or something.’

‘I guess,’ Missa said, not entirely convinced. ‘Tomorrow we should check to see if there are any entrances we need to seal.’

‘Good idea,’ agreed Phil. ’We don't want any unexpected visitors.’

They continued their dinner, discussing plans for the house and sharing anecdotes. From time to time, Missa glanced toward the hallway leading to the back of the house, as if expecting to see something. But everything seemed normal.

As they picked up the leftovers from dinner, Missa kept looking down the hallway. 

‘Everything all right, darling?’ asked Phil giving Missa a hug from behind, ’you look, scared.’  

‘Yes, everything's fine, querido,’ Missa said giving him a kiss on the cheek, ’Shall we go to bed?’ 

They both went to sleep. The next day, they both went downstairs for breakfast for reheated pizza and a cup of coffee, but their pizza was gone, and their living room was a mess. 

They attributed it to the raccoons, until it happened again the next day, and the next, and the next. 

On the fifth day, Missa and Phil looked at each other with concern as they observed their living room once again in disarray.

‘This can't be raccoons any more,’ Missa said, picking up a cushion from the floor. ‘Raccoons don't open refrigerators or leave biscuit crumbs everywhere.’

Phil nodded, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. ‘You're right. This is…weird.’

‘Do you think someone is breaking into the house?’ Missa asked, her voice tinged with concern.

‘It's possible,’ Phil replied. ’But I don't see any signs of forced entry. Besides, why would someone break in just to make a mess and eat our food?’

Missa shuddered. ‘I don't know, but it's creeping me out.’

Phil hugged him. ‘Don't worry. We'll figure this out. What do you say we set up some security cameras? Then we'll know what's really going on.’

So they did, they bought cameras and installed them, it turned out their house wasn't haunted or infested with raccoons, there were kids in their house, their house was invaded by two little kids at night. 

[ozonecologne]

whooooaaaaaa tell me about your original fiction!! we love the sea!! we love the sea monsters and creatures!!!

OH I'm so sorry I never saw this!! Thank you so much for asking, I'd love to talk about it 🌊

The big thing I'm working on now began with a retelling of the myth of Iphigenia. Discussion and moodboard link below!!!

A group of island fishermen believe that they've offended the goddess of the sea, and offer up the life of a beloved daughter to make amends. They throw her body into the sea, but the girl does not die. She cuts through the water and is wrapped in the skin of a seal, transfigured into a half-drowned monster with dark eyes and sharp teeth. Only occasionally does she ever venture towards shore, to chase the fishing boats and sate her new appetite. As she ages and forgets more and more of the life of warmth she once led, she grows to hate the goddess that so rules the attitudes of her village. Every night she peers up from beyond the sea foam and over the sharp rocks to the mountain where her temple stands. Strong but clumsy on land in her new form, the girl could never reach the mountain's peak alone. And she would rather die than ask a villager for help. Storms swallow the island, fueled by her rage. As the years and years roll past her, the desire for revenge only grows stronger.

Decades later, a world-weary fisherman in a decaying house on the edge of the village crosses her path much by accident. Due the bad weather that the island is now famous for, a large tree fell from the cliffs and smashed through the second story of his home. The upper bedroom is destroyed, but this alone doesn't upset him; the room was his sister's, who had not long ago passed from illness that went back to their childhood. She'd always been sickly -- it was the damp, you see. He's ashamed to admit that he's a little relieved to be rid of her, only he isn't exactly. Even in death, she just can't leave him alone. He sleeps in the front room, on the lumpy couch that their father used to take up residence in under a tarp that holds back the leaking from above, but he sees her shadowy form lingering in the doorway. She peers at him through the windows, paces the cracked hall upstairs, reaches out from the cupboards with long, untrimmed fingernails when she thinks he's not looking. To placate her spirit he knows that he needs to fix the roof, but there's a problem. All the solid trees that would make good lumber grow at the top of the island's mountain; he can't go there by himself, not as frail as he is at his age, and there is no one alive he can ask to help him.

When a local's body washes up on the rocky beach near his home, our protagonist finds a strange figure hunched over and chewing through to the bone. In the moonlight, for a crazed instant, he fears that it's his dead sister -- that she has found a way to leave her broken bedroom and haunt the village in her unnatural state. And then those big, watery eyes meet his, and he knows that she too is something not of this world.

Despite their mutual disgust for one another, they eventually strike a deal: if he takes her up the mountain to confront the goddess that caused her death, the selkie will help him cut and carry down wood from the mountain to repair his broken roof. Neither can go there alone: they need each other.

As they climb up the mountain, the storms become heavier. The terrain becomes more dangerous. Monstrous guardians block their path to the temple, and the two have to fight their instincts and place their trust in one another to make it to the goddess alive.

But as this duo comes to find out, not is all as it seems on the island, and the ocean keeps many secrets...

This piece is currently under the working title Merrow. You can view the moodboard I set up for it on Pinterest here! If more people are interested, I might also post excerpts in the future?

[winter-cheshire-writings]

Echoes and Experiments - Prologue

Mieko sat alone in her workshop, scribbling down plans for things and trying to organize her financial books. She had been a bit short on money for materials recently, which meant going outside of the city to gather on her own and leave the shop empty for longer. She sighed, shaking her head. “The longer I stay out, the worse my customer counts are… This is bad… I need to break this cycle.” She told herself. She heard the door open, looking up to see Lisa walking in with someone alongside her. A seemingly young man with ashy-blonde hair and turquoise eyes. But something about him told Mieko he wasn't nearly so young. “Welcome to Echoes.” She stood up to greet them. “Please, have a seat.” She motioned to the chairs around the client area near the window. “I'll fetch some tea so we may discuss your request.”

“Hehe, Mie, you're so good at that~ It's so well practiced~” Lisa cooed at her, taking a seat. “How do you know I'm not here just to see you, dearest Mie?”

“You always make me come to you.” She replied simply. “And you brought a guest.” She added. “So it must be something, no?”

“What insight~” Lisa giggled. “See, Albedo? I told you, Mie is very insightful~” she added, waiting for Mieko to bring the tea and snacks. “Ooh, what's this? Did you bake something today?” Lisa asked, eyeing the plate of sweet things.

“Yes, I was practicing for Jean's birthday.” She stated. “Even though I know Pizza is her favorite, I wanted to try making something small, just to give her a boost.” She smiled. “I hope you don't mind sweet things.” She said as she turned to Albedo.

“No, I don't mind them at all.” He replied. “Thank you for offering.” he offered his hand. “Allow me to introduce myself, Miss Mieko. My name is Albedo.”

“A pleasure to meet you, Mister Albedo. I am the owner of this shop.” She stated, taking his hand and smiling at him. Lisa eyed their interaction, smiling to herself.

“You can just call me Albedo.” he shook her hand.

“Then I will have to ask you to call me Mie or Mieko. Miss is too formal for me.”

“Very well.”

“You two get along so swimmingly~” Lisa chuckled, taking some sweets and a cup of tea. “Why don't you discuss your request with her Albedo? Mie, dear, I'm going to look at your sketchbook~”

“Again, Lisa?” She sighed. “Very well.” She said, letting Lisa get up and go to her workroom behind the screen door. “May I ask what you have come to have me fix for you, Albedo?” She smiled. “You're certainly not the type to need assistance on a regular basis. As Chief Alchemist of the Knights of Favonious, I'm sure you could make many things that would well outclass my meager skills.”

“Thank you for the compliment, Mieko. However this is something I do not wish to ruin with my lack of skills in this department.” he smiled at her. He brought out a small paper-wrapped package, placing it down in front of her. “Lisa brought me here because she said you were well versed in repairs of clothing. This was something I received from my teacher. However I had to stop using it, as it is quite far gone.” he stated. “I was hoping that you could save it.”

“Ah, I see. A memento to be cherished.” she nodded. She opened the package carefully, her eyes narrowing and a pout coming to her face. “Look at this, it's a mess. How did you let it get this bad?” she asked. Albedo was a bit surprised by her reaction, but he smiled. “I'll have to back it before I repair it and then seal the edges and back it again, are you sure I can't just make you a new one?”

“I would prefer to keep the original, if at all possible.” Albedo said simply, not flinching at the first question or her scolding tone. Lisa was impressed, not expecting Mieko to ever snap at a client like that. But Albedo seemed quite amused. Lisa chuckled and came out of the other room.

“Mie, dear, I remembered that I had something to do~ I'll take my leave. Thank you for the tea and sweets.”

“Very well. Go and do your work for once, Lisa.” She replied, heading straight past the woman to her thread rack to search for an appropriate color to match the project. Lisa chuckled and pat Albedo's shoulder on her way out.

“Have fun you two~” She called before closing the door. Albedo wondered what that was for, dusting his shoulder off before watching Mieko mumbling to herself.

---

Albedo got up from where he had begun sketching Mieko, smiling a bit to himself. “Am I amusing?” She asked, glancing up at him from her work, then looking back down at it.

“I won't say I'm not amused by you.” he chuckled. “But. I also don't want to sound rude. After all, you're fixing something precious to me. So I should thank you for that. How much will the repair cost?”

“... I'll let you know when I'm done.” she replied. Albedo nodded, it was a fair response. After all, she was working quite hard on this. It had already been a few hours. Her stomach grumbled a little, but she just kept working. Albedo was intrigued, had she just not noticed? But by the 3rd one, he could tell she was ignoring it. She suddenly put the work down and went to the kitchen to retrieve a cup of juice and a thick slice of bread with cheese on it. She ate it quickly, downed the juice, and washed her hands before returning.

“You don't have to rush.” he told her as she returned.

“I don't, but since you've decided to stay, I want to get it done quickly. It shows how much it means to you.” she replied to him, sitting back down to work again.

“If you'd like, I can bring you back some actual food… I don't think bread and cheese is enough.” he said, leaning his head on his hand, elbow on the arm of her couch.

“None for me, thanks. But you're welcome to get something to eat for yourself.” she replied. “It should take me another hour or two at the most.” she added, hands still working on the repair. Albedo didn't move from his seat, watching her still. The room was cozy, and the soft noises of her handling the material and repairing the piece he'd given her were strangely soothing. Or maybe it was Mieko herself? She didn't say anything much unless prompted, or whispered to herself about the repair. Albedo appreciated the quiet, and he found her muttering and musing quite amusing. He looked up when he heard her scissors on the table, having been a bit lost in thought. Mieko walked over and placed the piece in his hand, Albedo's eyes wide. It was almost as good as new, and had been reinforced so it felt much sturdier now.

“Amazing.” he said softly, inspecting the work while Mieko say down to drink some tea. Albedo inspected the work for a bit longer before falling quiet. When Mieko looked up from her tea, he had fallen asleep. She just smiled, getting up and draping a light blanket over him as he clutched the little writing implement holding pouch in his hand and mumbled to himself in his sleep.

“Goodnight, Albedo.” She said softly before going to make more tea. She didn't feel tired at all. No, she actually felt giddy. She had to stop herself, taking a deep breath. “No, Mie. Don't risk it. Happiness is dangerous.” She whispered to herself. She went about making herself something small to eat before returning to her work table, careful to not wake Albedo. When the Sun came up, she heard him stir and went to get a start on breakfast without a word. When she was done, he was just sitting up. “Good morning.”

“Mieko… Forgive me, I fell asleep.”

“Nothing to forgive.” She smiled as she placed a small tray in front of him. “I hope you like Inazuman food.” she smiled. A little bowl of rice, some fish cooked in an Inazuman Miso sauce, and a a few other small side dishes accompanied the main dish. “I can always make something else if you prefer.” she added.

“Oh. Thank you… I don't mind Inazuman at all.” he looked up at her, noting that she had just a cup of tea and a rice bowl, her fish mixed into the rice. “Oh? Is that how you prefer to eat?”

“Ah, I just do this automatically…” She smiled a bit. “It's a habit from childhood.”

“Oh… I see.” Albedo took some of the fish and mixed it into his rice, Mieko was surprised by the action. He took a bite and smiled. “Mm. That's quite good. And it's more efficient.”

“Yes it is.” Mieko smiled more. “My grandmother used to make onigiri this way, when I was young.”

“Oh, I see. That would be a heartier meal than just the rice alone.” Albedo nodded. They chatted a bit over their food, Albedo helping with the dishes before he headed to the door, Mieko walking with him. “Thank you again for the meal. And for the repair. Are you certain I don't need to pay you?”

“Yes, I'm certain. It's been a while since someone has been so enjoyable to have for company.” She nodded. “I will take your friendship as payment.”

“Very well.” Albedo smiled. Once he'd left the area, though, he chuckled. “She's so interesting… I wonder how I was able to fall asleep with her in the room?”

-

That afternoon, Mieko got dressed in some slightly nicer clothes than what she usually wore around the workshop, and headed to meet Lisa and Jean for tea. Their conversation was mostly centered around Jean at first, since she was the Acting Grand Master. “You have more responsibility than I do to stay healthy, Jean.” Mieko told her. “If my shop doesn't do well, I have other methods of making ends meet.”

“Speaking of.” Lisa piped in with a smile. “I saw Albedo leaving your place this morning~ So he spent the night with you?” She teased.

“Oh, did Albedo have a project for you, Mie?” Jean asked. Mieko explained, Lisa giggling a bit. “How unusual… It must have been important for him to have stayed over.”

“I think it was something other than the project.” Lisa smiled. “They must have done something, for him to have stayed the night.” Mieko just sipped her tea and looked at her with a side eye.

“Lisa, you're always jumping to conclusions about things like this.” she sighed. “I let him stay the night because I was working on his piece until early this morning.” she stated. “I told him to rest, and he eventually ended up falling asleep while inspecting my work.”

“Oh, is that all??? Goodness, Albedo fell asleep inspecting your work?” Lisa teased. “He must have found it fascinating.” she added, grinning as Mieko shook her head. “Do you like him, Mie, dear?”

“He is a kind soul, and he allowed me to speak casually to him despite his status as Chief Alchemist, Lisa. What is there not to like?”

“Aww, is that all?” Lisa smiled. “Very well.” She said, turning the attention back on Jean, the blonde woman's cheeks reddening. Mieko headed back to her workshop after they were done, sighing.

“Damn it Lisa… Now what will I do?” She asked herself. “He's too perfect for you anyway, Mieko…” She added, unlocking her door and walking inside. As she prepared herself some dinner, she felt the ever present loneliness creeping up on her. Only then did she realize that with Albedo around, it had lessened to such a degree. She let out a sigh, shaking her head. “Don't feel, Mieko. Don't let it happen. He's just a good soul. A kindred spirit. That's all he can ever be, is a friend.” She insisted to herself over and over again. She went about her evening before preparing herself for bed. But again, she didn't feel tired. She simply returned to the workshop downstairs, working on things until her energy began to fade.

[ask-anarky]



Mr Stern considered his position very carefully;

he knew the board had put him in a precarious place here and none of his options were good ones. He leant back in the desk chair of the luxurious guest room he had been offered during his time on the LF12 station. The room was polished marble and brushed steel, with a window onto the terrarium at the center of the station that bathed the space in a pale green light with the room’s lights off.

Currently they were dimmed, only the desk light on full strength, illuminating a pile of incident reports, cost estimates on damage repairs and troop redeployments and the letter from the board with his instructions. Those at least were clear, Drake had mismanaged the vigilante problem, and now with Osborne’s…. Pet, putting a spotlight on the problem, the board was of one mind. 

Stern neatly piled the reports into the plastic tray, replaced the cap on his pen, and placed it perfectly in line with the tray, a neat ninety degree angle to the edge of the table. He stood, brushed down his suit jacket, straightened his tie, and replaced the chair beneath the desk.

Despite the overwhelming feeling of a man on death row, Stern was a creature of exacting habit; it was why he was hired by the board to clean up financial messes, he generally left them tidier than before the incident ever happened, and he was not one to change his habits for delivering bad news.

LF12 was not a large station, mostly luxury housing and offices, with supplies ferried in regularly from the industrial stations it watched over. But it was primarily known as Drake’s home away from home. Stern strolled past armed guards all along the curved corridor that made up the outside of the station. LF12 was surrounded by hardpoint defenses, satellites with autocannons spied every inch of space around him, and yet Drake hired more and more guards. He’d made note of course, but it was unsettling to see a man of means so cautious of his own safety.

Stern reached the door to his host’s apartments, a large door made of a slab of redwood sealed with acetate and split down the middle. One of the guards beside opened it for Stern, nodding as he entered.

The space was open, with windows gazing out onto the fields of shipbreakers and shipping depots, and framed by bookshelves and classical paintings. The floor was a colossal unbroken piece of marble, and at the center was a grand, 17th century fireplace; roaring warmly in front of matching armchairs. Carlton Drake lounged in one of these chairs, his gilded eyes were flickering with whatever E-tainment he was watching at the moment. Stern coughed, and walked to the center of the near empty room. “Mr Drake, Sir?” Drake snapped out of it, and brushed his hair back in a practiced motion. “Mr Stern, a pleasure to see you finally, after a week of hosting you. I trust you found everything you wanted to see?” “I… Yes sir, I hoped to have a word with you.” “A word? You may have a whole conversation, please, sit.” Stern stepped around Drake, and sat in the other chair, tucking his shirt carefully as he sat. “I wanted to speak to you about the board.” “Yes, I’m aware Mr Stern, you are their representative, I’d be a fool not to connect those dots. What about them?” “They… have concerns.” “Concerns?” “Anxieties, that could be eased.” “Perhaps they and you would be better off speaking to a shrink then Albert?” “Carlton, we used to have a good working relationship, you used to trust me. What happened?”

“I still do Albert.” “You do yourself a disservice then, because you act as if I’m another enemy, or a pawn to tie down with your contracts”

Drake finally turned to face Stern, his golden eye implants shimmering in the firelight as he locked eyes with the other man. “Perhaps I lack a reason to treat you or them as anything but a threat.”

Stern’s face went taut. “Very well Sir, the board has sent me as their representative to-” The doors opened, and a trio of sharply dressed women, each holding instruments, were ushered into the room by guards. “Not yet Albert, I’d have entertainment! Anything to distract from this conversation.”

Drake climbed out of his chair, and walked to the trio, snatching a crystal flute from the lead just as they started to play; while Stern followed close behind him.

“Sir, I am simply here to deliver a message from the board.” “Oh I fully understand that Albert.” He spun on the spot, and pushed the flute into the older man’s hands. “Play this for me.” “I.. Uh, perhaps the performers would be better suited?” “Don’t be ridiculous, play it.”

“I.. I can’t Carlton.” “I Demand it” “I can’t play the flute!”

Drake tsk’d.

“Truly? A child can play this Albert, you press your fingers on the gaps and blow. They let infants blast away tunelessly in schools and you can’t even express one note?”

He pushed the flute into the other man’s face to show him, though too close for comfort.

“Carlton, what are you talking about? I’m here to give you the board's position, end this nonsense.”

It was then that he noticed the flicker of Drake’s eye, he was filming this, streaming it more likely. The light caught on the crystal and Drake turned this million dollar instrument over in his hands.

“How little you must think of me then. That I’m easier to fret than this pipe, that a thing a child plays for fun could be more complex than me.”

“Carlton I-”

Drake brought the pipe across Stern’s head, knocking him to the ground and shattering the end of the flute, leaving shards scattered across the stone. The players looked on, too horrified to speak, and knowing they would surely join him if they moved.

“The board would claim to know every note of my register, and play me like a fiddle from my highest note to the lowest; like I’m their instrument? As though I’m simpler to play than a fucking pipe?” Carlton leant down, grabbing the other man by his chin and tilting it up, before driving the flute’s jagged end into his throat. It spluttered for a moment, as Stern’s last breath played a foul note, before blood flowed out the instrument into the pool on the floor.

“You can call yourselves whatever you like Lady and Gentlemen of the Board, fret upon me all you want but you cannot play me. Am I understood? You belong to ME.”

In the corners of his vision, chair after chair of the board, their portraits scrambled beyond recognition, nodded and cut their connection to this grim call; until Drake was left alone, with only the whimper of the musicians, and the quiet drip of blood on marble.

[windshield-crack-repair]

The Importance of Auto Glass and Windshield Maintenance on Useful Time

Auto glass plays a crucial role in maintaining your vehicle's structural integrity and safety. Whether it's a minor chip or a large crack, addressing issues with your windshield or car windows promptly is essential to ensure favorable visibility and safety on the road. Below, we explore the significance of auto glass repair and various solutions available to car owners.

What Are the Reasons That Glass Repair Matters

Auto glass is designed to provide clear visibility and protect passengers from external elements. Damaged glass, such as a cracked or damaged windshield, compromises your safety by:

Blocking the driver’s view

Weakening the vehicle’s structural unity

Increasing the risk of further damage during accidents or effect

Addressing auto glass issues quickly through professional Auto Glass Repair services ensure safety and prevents costly replacements throughout the line.

When to Seek Windshield Repair Near You

If you notice a small crack or scratch in your windshield, don’t ignore it. Windshield repair services are designed to fix minor damage before it worsens. Here are some scenarios when searching for “Windshield Repair Near Me” is the right move:

A small scratch that hasn’t expanded

Surface cracks that are not blocking the driver’s line of sight

Minor damage from remains or small impacts

Professional repair technicians use advanced tools to seal scratches and restore the strength of the glass, often completing the job within an hour.

Windshield Replacement Near You When Repair Is Not Enough

While windshield repair is a quick and affordable solution, there are situations where replacement becomes unavoidable. Search for “Windshield Replacement Near Me” if you experience:

Split that exceed in length

Damage located directly in the driver’s line of vision

Extensive shattering or multiple scratches

Formal compromise due to accidents

A new windshield ensures that your car meets safety standards and offers enhanced protection against future effects.

How to Manage Windshield Repair

Windshield cracks can grow over time due to temperature changes, vibrations, or further impact. If left unattended, they may require full replacement, which is often more expensive than repair. Opting for Windshield Crack Repair on time can:

Don’t let the crack the spread

Bring back the windshield’s strength

Save money compared to a complete substitution

Mobile windshield repair services make it more uncomplicated than ever to address cracks, offering on-the-spot solutions at your convenience.

Windshield Repair for Favourable Safety

For every car owner, maintaining the windshield is a top priority. Timely Car Windshield Repair can prevent accidents caused by impaired visibility and safeguard you during collisions. Modern repair techniques use advanced resin to fill scratches and cracks, restoring the windshield’s clarity and strength without the need for costly replacements.

Act Fast for Auto Glass Security

Whether you need auto glass repair, a complete windshield replacement near you, or a quick windshield crack repair, addressing the issue promptly is essential. Neglecting minor damage can lead to greater safety risks and higher repair costs in the future. Always rely on certified professionals to ensure your windshield and auto glass meet the highest safety quality.

For expert advice and fast solutions, search for trusted services in your area to keep your vehicle road-ready and secure. Don’t wait to act now to protect your car and your rider.

[cudeldelightsolution]

Common Window AC Problems and How to Repair Them at Home

An inexpensive window air conditioner can be costly in the long run if its installation and maintenance are not taken care of seriously. You must be aware of its mechanism so that you can perform the window AC repair by yourself.

In this blog, we will have a detailed analysis of common issues that can arise in your window AC unit and will also provide you with some do-it-yourself window AC repair solutions.

Common Problems That Can Plague Your Window AC System and How to Fix Them

Cooling Issues

In case your window AC is not cooling, it may be due to faulty sensors which are unable to sense the temperature properly for effective cooling. You will need to adjust the sensor wire with the coil accordingly to enhance the cooling efficiency. Also, check if the air damper is open or closed. Close it if open because it can let in outside air which can affect cooling.

Noise

Bent fan blades, a non-lubricated fan motor or a worn-out fan belt can cause strange noises while your window AC is running. You can easily fix these problems by straightening the fan blades, oiling the motor and changing the fan’s belt if necessary. Mending these issues can reduce or eliminate noise from your window AC.

Water Leakage

Cracks in your AC unit may cause water leakage. This is due to condensation by warm air that comes in through those cracks. You can detect the cracks and seal them by inspecting your AC by yourself.

Energy Inefficiency

Excessive power consumption by your window AC may be due to compressor failure. If your AC is consuming too much power, check if its compressor is clogged and remove any dirt, dust or fungus. Also, consider changing the motor oil of the compressor to enhance its efficiency.

If You Are Searching “The Best Window AC Service Near Me”, Then Search Through CuDel!

CuDel by the Kutumbh Care Group is an excellent service app that will promise you transparency and delight. You can search for efficient window AC repair services in your area and book an appointment instantly with them to have your window ACs repaired. A cost-effective and trustworthy app for your window AC repair, that’s what CuDel vows to be!

[roofinsightblogger]

Comprehensive Guide to Factors That Influence Roof Replacement Costs

Introduction:

Replacing a roof is a substantial investment for any homeowner, and it’s natural to want to understand the factors that drive costs. Roofing expenses can differ significantly depending on various elements, from the type of materials to local labor rates. Using roofing contractors near me gives you access to local expertise on materials and techniques. This guide explores each of these factors, helping you gain insight into what to expect when budgeting for roof replacement in 2024.

1. Material Selection

Different roofing materials come with varied price tags. Popular options like asphalt shingles are often budget-friendly, while premium materials such as slate or metal roofing can significantly increase costs.

Each material offers unique benefits in terms of durability, lifespan, and aesthetics, making it essential to consider your long-term goals when choosing a material.

2. Roof Size and Complexity

The overall square footage of your roof impacts the amount of material required, directly affecting cost. Larger roofs need more materials and labor, raising the overall price.

Roof complexity, including the number of angles, valleys, and edges, also influences cost since complex designs require more skilled labor and time.

3. Condition of Existing Roof

The state of your current roof can add to replacement costs, especially if there’s extensive damage, rot, or mold that needs addressing before installation.

Additional repairs and cleaning will increase labor costs, particularly for roofs with underlying structural issues.

4. Roof Slope and Pitch

A steeper roof is generally harder to work on, requiring more safety measures, specialized equipment, and experienced workers, which increases labor costs.

Flat or low-slope roofs, in contrast, are easier to navigate and may reduce labor expenses.

5. Location and Regional Costs

Roofing costs vary based on your geographical location. Urban areas often have higher labor rates compared to rural locations.

Additionally, some states or municipalities may have specific codes or regulations impacting roofing materials and installation techniques, adding to the overall cost.

6. Seasonal Demand

Roofing contractors are often busiest during warmer months. As demand increases, so can prices. Scheduling a replacement in the off-season, like winter, might lower costs due to reduced demand.

However, winter installations could also have potential weather-related challenges, which should be considered when deciding on timing.

7. Structural Elements

Roofs with unique features, such as skylights, chimneys, or dormer windows, add to the complexity and cost of roof replacement.

These structures require additional work to properly seal and integrate with the roofing material, necessitating extra time and precision.

8. Removal and Disposal Fees

The cost to remove and dispose of old roofing materials can vary depending on the type of material being discarded. Heavier materials, like clay tiles, are more expensive to dispose of.

Some roofing companies include this in their estimate, while others treat it as an add-on fee, so it’s essential to clarify this with your contractor.

9. Energy Efficiency Upgrades

Many homeowners opt to upgrade insulation or underlayment for better energy efficiency, especially during a roof replacement. High-quality underlayment or additional insulation adds to upfront costs but can lead to savings on utility bills over time.

Advanced options, like reflective roof coatings, can also contribute to both immediate and long-term cost benefits by reducing energy consumption.

10. Warranties and Guarantees

Longer warranties or guarantees on materials and installation can elevate upfront costs, yet they offer peace of mind and protection against future repairs.

Experienced, well-reviewed contractors may charge a premium, but the investment can provide greater security and quality workmanship.

Conclusion:

The cost of a roof replacement involves a combination of factors, each contributing to the final expense. By understanding the impact of materials, labor, seasonality, and additional structural features, homeowners can better prepare and budget for their project. Carefully considering each factor allows for a balanced decision, helping you achieve a durable and cost-effective roofing solution.

[furiouscrownpeach]

Your Local Denver Plumbing professional's Tips for Winterizing Your Pipes

As the winter months approach, it's important to take proactive steps to secure your plumbing system versus the cold. In a city like Denver, where temperatures can plummet, making sure that your pipes are correctly winterized is not just a preventative measure-- it's a need. A burst pipeline can result in considerable damage and costly repairs, so comprehending how to winterize your https://open.substack.com/pub/claytonmyfu384/p/low-circulation-fixtures-saving-water?r=4p2nvh&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true pipes is crucial.

In this thorough guide, we'll check out skilled pointers from local Denver plumbings on how to successfully winterize your pipes. We'll cover everything from basic preventive procedures to more advanced techniques that can help you avoid freezing pipes this winter.

Introduction: Understanding the Significance of Winterizing Your Pipes

When the temperature drops, water in your pipelines can freeze and broaden, resulting in prospective bursts and leakages. This threat is specifically prevalent in older homes or those with less insulation. So, what should every house owner know about preparing their pipes for winter?

Here's where our regional Denver plumbing technician is available in with useful suggestions customized specifically for the unique environment of Colorado. Whether you're looking for "plumbing technician near me" or seeking emergency situation pipes services in Denver, these suggestions will keep you ahead of prospective plumbing disasters.

Your Local Denver Plumbing's Tips for Winterizing Your Pipes 1. Insulate Your Pipelines: The First Line of Defense

Insulating your pipelines is one of the most efficient methods to avoid freezing. Usage foam pipeline insulation sleeves or cover insulation tape around vulnerable locations such as basements, attics, and outside walls.

2. Let Faucets Drip: A Basic Solution

Allowing faucets linked to exposed pipelines to leak a little throughout extreme cold can alleviate pressure and prevent freezing. However why does this work? When water flows through the pipeline, it's less likely to freeze compared to stagnant water.

3. Seal Cracks and Openings: Keep the Cold Air Out

Inspect your home for any fractures in walls or openings around windows and doors that could enable cold air into areas where pipes lie. Sealing these spaces with caulk or spray foam insulation can substantially help maintain a consistent temperature around your plumbing.

4. Detach Pipes: Safeguard Outside Faucets

Before winter hits, disconnect all garden hoses from outdoor faucets and drain them completely. If possible, shut down the water supply to outside spigots and drain any staying water.

5. Keep Heating in Unused Spaces: Keep it Warm

If you have rooms or areas of your home that aren't used typically-- like a visitor bed room or basement-- keep the heating on at a low setting (around 55 ° F). This helps keep heat around vulnerable piping.

6. Know Your Pipes System: Understanding Vulnerabilities

Every home is different; comprehending where your plumbing system is most susceptible enables you to focus preventive measures successfully. Speak with a local Denver plumbing if you're uncertain about specific areas within your home.

7. Use Heat Tape: Advanced Defense for Crucial Areas

For particularly prone sections

[integrityremodelingroof]

Navigating the Process of a Roof Replacement Near Me

When it comes to maintaining the integrity of your home, addressing roofing issues promptly and effectively is essential. A sturdy and well-maintained roof protects not just your property but also the safety and comfort of its inhabitants. As homeowners search for roofing replacement company long beach, they often seek local expertise to ensure their roofing needs are met with precision and care.

Understanding When Roof Replacement Is Necessary

The longevity of a roof depends on various factors, including material quality, craftsmanship, and exposure to harsh weather elements. Over time, even the most durable roofs will succumb to wear and tear, necessitating a comprehensive roof replacement. Homeowners may notice missing shingles, leaks during rainstorms, or daylight peeking through roof boards as telltale signs that it's time for a new roof.

In such instances, seeking professional roofing services becomes imperative. A thorough inspection by seasoned professionals can determine whether repair work can extend your roof’s life or if full-scale replacement is the safest option.

The Benefits of Professional Roofing Services

Choosing experienced contractors for your "roof replacement near me" query provides numerous benefits. Firstly, they possess the knowledge to assess your specific situation accurately. They can recommend suitable materials that will provide durability and enhance your home's aesthetic appeal while staying within local building codes.

Moreover, expert roofing services ensure that all aspects of the job are handled correctly—from stripping away old materials to installing new ones—thereby minimizing future repair needs. This attention to detail extends beyond mere shingles; it includes ensuring proper attic ventilation and insulation which contribute significantly to a roof's overall performance.

Complementing Your Roof Replacement with Additional Services

While tackling roof replacement, homeowners have an opportunity to consider other exterior enhancements such as gutter replacement, siding repair or siding replacement, and exterior trim solutions. Upgrading gutters in tandem with a new roof ensures that rainwater is effectively diverted away from the structure—preventing potential water damage.

Similarly, revamping siding can bolster your home's defenses against external elements while boosting curb appeal. Whether you require siding repairs or full replacements depends on current conditions; however, both options offer a chance for an aesthetic upgrade.

Finally, don't overlook exterior trim solutions as part of your renovation project. Trim plays a crucial role in sealing out moisture and pests while providing an attractive finish to windows and doors.

Selecting Local Expertise for Your Roof Replacement Project

Finding reliable "roof replacement near me" involves more than just proximity; it requires vetting potential service providers for quality assurance. Look for businesses with strong reputations within the community backed by customer testimonials reflecting satisfaction with both their craftsmanship and customer service.

Local experts understand regional weather patterns well enough to advise on materials best suited for enduring seasonal challenges specific to their area—which could ultimately prolong the lifespan of your new roof.

Investing in professional roofing services means investing in peace of mind knowing that every aspect of your project—from initial consultation through final inspection—is conducted with utmost professionalism.

In conclusion, when embarking on a "roof replacement near me" quest or related exterior improvements like gutter or siding projects—partnering with trusted professionals guarantees superior execution aligned with safety standards and aesthetic preferences alike. It's about cultivating confidence that your home remains secure under its new protective layer designed specifically for its unique environmental demands—all provided by local experts dedicated to superior service delivery.

Integrity Remodeling Roofing and Siding Address: 564 E Hudson St, Long Beach, NY 11561 Phone: 516-373-0095 Website: https://integrityremodelingny.com/

[jamesvince9898]

Expert Auto Glass Repair & Replacement Services in Sterling Heights

Introduction: When it comes to maintaining the safety and functionality of your vehicle, addressing any damage to your auto glass is crucial. Whether you're dealing with a chipped windshield, a shattered rear window, or a cracked side window, the integrity of your car’s glass plays a vital role in ensuring your visibility and overall safety on the road. At Save On Auto Glass, we specialize in providing top-tier auto glass repair and replacement services to keep you safe and secure while driving. Our team is committed to offering quick, affordable, and professional solutions, making us the go-to choice for auto glass repair in Sterling Heights and surrounding areas.

Comprehensive Windshield Replacement Services Near Me A cracked or severely damaged windshield not only obstructs your view but also compromises the structural integrity of your vehicle. Our windshield replacement services near you are designed to provide fast and reliable solutions. Using only high-quality materials and expert installation techniques, we ensure that your new windshield meets or exceeds industry standards for safety and performance. Save On Auto Glass offers mobile windshield replacement services, allowing you to get your vehicle’s windshield replaced wherever is most convenient for you.

Windshield Chip Repair Near Me: Prevent Further Damage If your windshield has minor chips or cracks, it's essential to address them promptly. Ignoring even small damages can lead to more significant issues over time, such as the chip expanding into a crack that compromises the entire windshield. Our windshield chip repair services near you focus on saving you time and money by restoring the integrity of your windshield before replacement becomes necessary. We use advanced techniques to seal chips and prevent them from spreading, ensuring your windshield remains sturdy and safe.

Rear Windshield Replacement Near Me: Keep Your Rear View Clear A damaged rear windshield can severely limit your visibility while driving, posing a significant risk on the road. At Save On Auto Glass, we provide rear windshield replacement services near you, ensuring you always have a clear and unobstructed view. Our experts can replace rear windshields quickly and effectively, restoring the rear window’s functionality without compromising the aesthetics or performance of your vehicle. We also ensure the use of high-quality materials to match the factory standards for your vehicle model.

Side Window Replacement Near Me: Repair Broken or Shattered Glass Broken side windows are not only a security risk but also a safety concern while driving. Whether caused by an accident, vandalism, or other reasons, a broken side window needs immediate attention. Our side window replacement services near you are designed to provide fast, efficient, and precise replacements. We work with a variety of vehicle models and ensure that your new side window fits seamlessly with your car’s frame and functionality. With Save On Auto Glass, you can have peace of mind knowing that your side windows will be replaced with top-quality glass, ensuring your safety and privacy.

Why Choose Save On Auto Glass for Auto Glass Repair in Sterling Heights? We understand how important your vehicle is to you, and that's why we aim to provide the highest quality auto glass repair services in Sterling Heights. Our team of certified technicians is highly skilled and uses only the best materials and equipment to repair or replace your vehicle's glass. We take pride in delivering top-notch services with a commitment to customer satisfaction. Here’s why you should choose us:

Fast and Reliable Services: We offer quick repair and replacement solutions without compromising on quality.

Expert Technicians: Our team consists of certified professionals with extensive experience in the industry.

High-Quality Materials: We only use premium-grade glass that meets industry standards, ensuring durability and safety.

Mobile Service Available: We bring our services to you, whether you’re at home, work, or another convenient location.

Affordable Pricing: Our competitive pricing ensures you get the best value for your money without sacrificing quality.

Auto Glass Repair in Sterling Heights: Convenient, Fast, and Affordable At Save On Auto Glass, we take pride in serving Sterling Heights and the surrounding communities with reliable and affordable auto glass repair services. From minor repairs to full-scale replacements, our team is equipped to handle it all. We understand that damaged auto glass can be a hassle, which is why we aim to make the repair or replacement process as convenient as possible for you. Our mobile services allow us to come to you, minimizing the disruption to your day. We also work with most insurance companies, ensuring that your claims process is smooth and hassle-free.

The Importance of Timely Auto Glass Repairs Delaying repairs to your windshield, rear, or side windows can lead to bigger problems down the line. A small chip in your windshield can quickly spread, causing the need for a full windshield replacement. Similarly, ignoring a cracked side window or rear windshield compromises your vehicle’s safety, leaving it vulnerable to further damage and making it easier for thieves to access your car. Timely repairs not only help you avoid higher costs in the future but also ensure that your vehicle remains safe and roadworthy.