Ask Lon!

At last a topic of discussion where my passion for drumming intersects with our business. From garage bands to performing at nightclubs or recording studios, controlling and managing the sounds serves many purposes. Here we are going to briefly introduce you to the differences between sound reduction and soundproofing within the home or workplace.

How sound travels:

My 7^th grade science teacher (Mr. Glure) might be thrilled that I still recall his tuning fork demonstration which proved, in simple terms, that sound is a vibration which can be transmitted through a solid, liquid or gas. Sound travels in waves such as amplitude, frequency, period, speed and wavelength and moves quickly through solids due to their density. Walls, floor and ceilings are comprised of tightly compressed atoms which are well suited to quickly transmit sound.

Sound reduction is in fact a method to modify an existing space to minimize the amount of noise between floors, ceilings or walls. Drywall is an excellent and inexpensive material yet it is also an excellent conduit for vibration.

Luckily there are special insulations and state of the art sheet rock products on the market today that when properly installed can significantly reduce sound. These and other high-tech materials are financially within reach of most homeowners and when compared to the benefit of a good night sleep – they are a great return on investment.

Soundproofing is another animal all together. Currently homes and businesses aren’t constructed to address Little Johnny riding his bike across the hardwood floors upstairs, a neighbor blasting their 300 watt Bose speakers or that machine noise emanating from the warehouse.

To soundproof these conditions, you are looking at the complete demolition of your existing space to add double wall construction combined with the latest in soundproofing technology working in concert to absorb vibrations and unwanted sound.

The sad truth is that during home remodeling or new construction projects it would cost about 3 to 5% more to address sound issues throughout a home or business. So yes it’s possible to install hidden soundproofing into your existing space but it’s going to cost you much more than if you make the decision at the time of original construction.

Your quest for peace and quiet can be addressed in greater detail @ 1-847-636-0771, so call for a free estimate!

Tags: Chicago Handyman Tips, Indoor Handyman Services, Soundproofing by admin
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We completed two bathroom remodels this week.  Take a look at the before and after photos below and let us know what you think of our work .  Call Lon @ 847-636-0771 today for a free estimate.

We removed wall paper, toilet and flooring to create this simple yet tasteful update.

Below: Last week (at another residence) we also installed glass shower tiles to transform this space. Up next – flooring, toilet, vanity, sink, faucet and lighting!

Please let us know what you think of our handiwork @ info@asklon.com or 847-636-0771

Tags: Bathroom Remodeling, Flooring, Home Remodeling by admin
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Hiring the Best Handyman/Remodeler

Allow me to offer some time-honored advice when choosing a handyman service provider.

Guidelines:

• Develop a Project Specification Plan* – define the project requirements in detail. Create a budget which covers demolition, materials, labor and/or a timeline.
• Permits – when applicable, check with the city or village to determine if a permit is necessary.  If so, discuss this with each company to determine who’s responsible for pulling the permit.
• Estimates – send the project specifications along with photos showing the current condition of your project area to three service companies.
• References – ask for photos and/or detailed information specific to your project as well as a current reference list. You can also check with the BBB.
• Insurance – ask for proof of insurance to be certain it is current and that it covers the work you’re requesting.
• Contract – ensure the contract spells out exactly what is to be accomplished, what specific materials are to be used, the timeline and any warranty.

Also be sure that each company asked relevant question’s, gave you a Free Estimate and provided the most comfortable and honest assessment of what it’s going to take to achieve a successful working relationship.  After all, this is your project and it’s your vision which must be realized.

Creating a Good Project Specification Plan:

Let’s use a bathroom remodel as a sample project. Start by taking several photos of your current bathroom, you will share them later. On a piece of paper, draw the room as it is and add the measurement of each wall and the width of doors and windows as well as the placement of the toilet, sink and bath/shower stall. Don’t worry about it looking perfect; simply scratch it out and set it aside.

Design Ideas: If a friend has a bath you like, ask for photos. You should also go to the Design Magazines for new ideas. When you see something you like write down the manufacturer’s name and model numbers to share with us.

The design process is fun and something I truly enjoy. Here are a few of my favorite bathroom manufacturer links and if you want more, please give me a call:

http://trendsideas.com/?region=4

http://www.kohler.com/

http://www.americanstandard-us.com/

http://www.jadousa.com/inspirationgallery/?d=1

http://www.porcher-us.com/inspiration-gallery/

Now grab another piece of paper and rough out the placement of products as you would like them in your new bath.  Are you getting rid of that old cast iron tub and installing a walk-in shower? Will the shower also have a seat or will the space become a whirlpool tub? Will the floor be tile and if so, do you have a sample picture or measurement to share? Are we closing up that window and installing an exhaust fan? What about lighting?

Perhaps this seems a bit daunting but the point here is to keep it simple by understanding the installation process. Every contractor simply wants to know what your vision for the space is and if you have a budget for the project.

Here comes the obligatory sales pitch!

Yes! Ask Lon can assist with any project you desire and even help (as we have here) with the “homework” but the more time you spend researching the needs of your project, the more you will understand its scope.

Tags: Chicago Handyman News by Lon Thomas
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Well, not exactly, but I got your attention, right? According to the Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity (LIRA), released earlier this week by the Remodeling Futures Program at the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University, homeowner improvement spending is likely to reach a cyclical bottom in Q4 2009 and steadily increase through 2010. That’s right, none other than Harvard University says to pick up the phone and call us to plan your 2010 remodeling activity!

What else are you going to do in 7 degree weather?

Click for full size image:

Tags: Chicago Handyman News, Home Remodeling by Lon Thomas
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For Immediate Release

Ask Lon! Launches New Chicago Handyman Website

Company unveils new web 2.0 website to anchor its 2010 marketing plans

MORTON GROVE, IL (January 12, 2009) – Chicago handyman services company Ask Lon! recently launched a new online destination that showcases the company’s services, client testimonials and Chicago handyman blog. The new site, located at www.asklon.com, is powered by the popular WordPress content management system and features the latest SEO and web analytics plugins to enhance online client prospecting and marketing.

“The new website is an exciting addition to our brand, and we are looking forward to utilizing it as the cornerstone of our new online marketing efforts” says Lon Thomas, Owner/Operator of Ask Lon!.

The new site features sections for client testimonials, which are increasingly important marketing tools in the handyman trade, and includes areas about the company’s service offerings, including residential handyman services and commercial handyman services. Also included are Web 2.0 initiatives, such as a Chicago handyman blog and links to the company’s profiles on the popular social networking sites Facebook and Twitter.

Future website additions in the coming months will include ways for clients to pay for services directly through the website, and other new enhancements. The company has set out to make its web presence the premier Chicago handyman website

About Ask Lon!:

Ask Lon! provides Chicago handyman services that include residential and commercial installations, remodeling and repairs. The company is fully insured and specializes in small to mid-sized projects.

For more information contact:

Lon Thomas
President
Ask Lon!
1-847-636-0771
info@asklon.com

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Tags: Chicago Handyman News by admin
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