Many people appreciate the convenience of hiring a snow plow contractor to help get out of the driveway on winter days. Before the pavement freezes or the snow starts piling up, make certain the contractor is more reliable and predictable than the weather. Beware of scammers trying to take advantage of those who need snow removal, especially when more wintry precipitation hits the ground than is expected.

When hiring a snow removal company, asking the right questions is crucial to choosing a reliable and effective service. Keep these tips in mind before you make a final decision:

• Find an Accredited snow removal company. Also, read customer reviews and review the company's profile. Hiring an accredited business adds another layer of protection and peace of mind that you will be pleased with your experience.
• Get more than one estimate. Getting at least three estimates before deciding. Ask for all the costs upfront to avoid surprises and contact previous customers. Keep in mind the lowest price doesn’t always mean the best service. Read Business Profiles for company information, complaint history and detail, and customer reviews. Once you get detailed estimates outlining the scope of work, costs, and potential additional charges, this will help you compare quotes and make an informed decision.
• Ask for references. Request references from previous clients to get a sense of their track record and the quality of their service. Remember, even if a business appears reliable, it does not mean it is. When a company is reluctant to answer questions, won’t supply proper information, or is unwilling to offer references – there could be cause for concern.
• Find out what services are offered, what equipment is used, and their snow removal strategy. Inquire about their services, such as plowing, shoveling, salting, and de-icing. Make sure their offerings match your needs. Also, ensure that the company has the proper equipment to handle snow removal effectively, such as plows, snow blowers, and salt spreaders. Check their process for clearing snow, handling large accumulations, and their approach to different surfaces like driveways, walkways, and parking lots to prevent damage.
• Request a written contract. Never settle for a verbal agreement. Contractors should always provide a written contract. A representative should visit the property or do a virtual tour to make notes about the services requested and observe any potential obstacles. Get all the details in writing and always read anything, especially the fine print, before signing. Understand cancellation fees and any extra charges that may apply, like sidewalks or porches. If you're looking for consistent snow removal throughout the season, ask if they offer ongoing maintenance contracts.
• Verify insurance coverage and adherence to local regulations. Is the company fully insured in case of property damage? Follow up by requesting a statement from the company’s insurer confirming current liability and workers' compensation coverage. Verify their licensing and insurance coverage to ensure you won't be held liable for any accidents or damages that may occur during snow removal. Ensure the company is familiar with local snow removal regulations and ordinances to ensure compliance.
• Ask about scheduling. Some contractors provide snowplow services as a part-time job, which may affect the availability to clear a driveway when needed. Ask about their response time and availability during snowstorms or heavy snowfall. Always check to see if there is a schedule for snow removal. A quick response can be crucial in maintaining safe access. Ask if they offer emergency snow removal services in case of unexpected snowfall or emergencies.
• Split the payments. Find out how the company expects payment and understand how they calculate their pricing. Some companies charge per visit, while others offer seasonal contracts. Inquire about their billing frequency, payment methods, and any cancellation policies for seasonal contracts. Most contracts take two forms: pay-per-plowing or pay-per-season. Consider it a red flag if the customer is expected to pay all fees upfront. Most contractors will split fees into two or three payments – one at the beginning, the middle, and the end of the season.

Contact Morse Engineering and Construction for more information.

Source: bbb.org

Nobody wants a frozen septic system. Use these tips to prevent yours from freezing. Like water pipes, your septic system can freeze. Here are some tips to avoid the damage cold weather can cause.

• Use it. Without hot water going through the septic system, it’s susceptible to freezing. That can damage the tank, piping, the filter and its housing, and can cause waste to back up into the house. That will be costly and undesirable.
• Snow cover is good insulation over your septic system. Don’t shovel it off.
• If you don’t have adequate snow cover before the temperature drops below freezing, insulate the system using straw bales or purpose-made insulating blankets.
• Stop mowing the grass over the system a few weeks before the end of the growing season. Extra vegetation provides another layer of insulation.
• Don’t leave a trickle of water running, as people do to prevent pipes from freezing. That cold drip of water could cause an ice clog in your septic system.
• If you won’t be using the home in the winter, keeping it heated at 56 F to 58 F is one option for freeze prevention.
• If you’re rarely there during the winter, or if you drain your water and winterize your home, have the tank pumped out before freezing temperatures set in.
• Bury the tank as deeply as possible to help protect from freezing. The maximum depth for a concrete tank is eight feet to the top of the tank. Plastic tanks can’t be buried as deeply as concrete; only a maximum of 24 inches. Burying a tank deep, however, can make maintenance more difficult since it’s hard to see into the corners where sludge can build up.

After installation, septic tanks “settle” for up to a year. The area over the tank and drain field should be “crowned” to minimize the effect of settling. This is important, as water pooling around the tank freezes.

If you do have to add more fill as a result of settling, don’t use pea gravel around manhole covers. That doesn’t redirect the flow away from your system’s parts — it allows water to flow toward the tank. The ground can freeze and lift the manhole covers. Then groundwater flows into the tank, shortening the life of the system.

Contact Morse Engineering and Construction for more information.

Source: familyhandyman.com

Greetings all from the blog team here at Morse Engineering and Construction Industries. Thanksgiving, 2023 is just around the corner. We thought it would be appreciated to craft a Thanksgiving-focused blog a bit earlier than usual to give all our readers time to reflect and hopefully act upon the important things before we become too “holiday busy” to do so.

The Thanksgiving holiday conjures an assortment of emotions within all of us. For some, this is a time to reflect upon blessings, current and past. Thanksgiving is an invitation to pause and give thanks for the simple things we might take for granted. Things like the love of family, food on the table, and even for life itself.

Here at Morse Engineering and Construction Industries, we never take you, our clients, service providers, employees, family, and friends for granted. Today’s blog post is dedicated to you with hope and trust that this note finds you happy, healthy, thankful, and surrounded by those you hold dear.

If snow removal is an essential part of maintaining your home in the winter, the below tips can help reduce costs on services throughout the winter season.

Plan Ahead

The more research you do on snow removal services before winter rolls around, the better. Check with your neighbors for referrals on reputable companies or look at online reviews to see which professionals suit your needs best when it comes to snow removal. You’ll likely score a better deal during a snow company’s off-season than if you reach out when they’re in high demand.

Get Several Quotes

Once you have a list of companies you’re considering hiring, contact them for quotes on basic snow removal services as well as add-ons so that you can compare notes. That way, you can compare average rates and determine which company works best with your budget.

Consider a Contract

One-time snow removal is great for those in Southern regions who may only get a few inches of snow per season but homes in colder climates can benefit from a seasonal snow removal contract. A snow removal contract may cost more upfront but will be less overall when you consider how much you’d pay for one-time removal several times a year. You may even be offered a discount for signing up for a year-round contract that includes lawn maintenance and care.

Contact Morse Engineering and Construction for more information.

Source: angi.com/articles

It doesn’t matter if you’re hiring a kid from the neighborhood who’s handy with a shovel or a big commercial outfit that has a fleet of plows in its arsenal, you should still make sure you’re having a conversation about exactly what services they will provide and any expectations you may have.

Interview Your Snow Removal Service

Talking to a few different providers will not only help you choose the one best suited to the job, but it will also give you a better idea of what your expectations should be. In a perfect world, a snow removal service would keep snowfall from keeping you from getting where you need to go. However, many don’t come out until after the snow has stopped falling, and some may even be prevented from getting out on the roads by the same conditions keeping you at home.

Define the Process

When interviewing potential snow removal companies, be sure to ask them specific questions about their removal process and how they’ll carry it out. For example, what kind of equipment do they plan to use based on the amount of snow and size of your driveway? Will they bring multiple types of equipment, such as a snow blower and snow plow?

You should also request an outline of the project schedule to ensure it aligns with your needs. If you need help removing snow within a certain time frame, ask the removal service to confirm they can meet that deadline.

Get a Contract and Arrange Payments With Your Snow Removal Service

You don’t want to wait to find out that your snow removal service only takes cash when you’re snowed in with an empty wallet. Setting up a contract that clearly states the areas to be serviced, how much it will cost, and how payment can prevent you from being surprised. You can expect to pay between $350 to $450 for an annual snow removal contract.

Source: angi.com/articles

Hiring a service that is licensed and insured not only protects them, but you and your property as well. Snow removal services work around some of the most expensive things you own (like your home and automobile) so you want to make sure you’re covered in case their work damages them.

You should also ask any prospective service for some references before you hire them. If they can give you the names of a few happy customers then you can feel a little more confident that you’ll be satisfied as well. Any company that can’t (or won’t) give you references might be trying to hide something.

Questions to Ask Your Snow Removal Service

• Do I have to call you when there’s a snowstorm or will you automatically come out?
• Do you wait until after the snow has stopped falling or make multiple passes throughout the storm?
• How do you remove the snow (with a shovel, snow thrower, or plow)?
• Will you use salt after you’re done and is it pet-safe?
• How will I be billed?
• Can I sign an annual contract for snow removal or will we set something up for each storm?

Contact Morse Engineering and Construction for more information.

Source: angi.com/articles

Keeping your driveway, sidewalks, and walking paths free of snow is important for safety reasons, so you’ll want to find a service that is both reliable and reputable. To make sure you’re partnering with a service that fits that bill, you can talk to your neighbors, post on a local message board, and even search online for a snow removal service near you.

Before Hiring a Snow Removal Service

Decide exactly what spaces you want cleared and if there are any special steps you’ll want them to take. For example, if you have a four-legged friend who will be trekking through your freshly cleared areas then you’ll want to make sure any deicing agents they use (like salt) are safe for Fido. In some areas, residents are responsible for keeping their sidewalks clear, and in others that may extend to the street.

Plan Your Snow Removal Route for Accurate Quotes

Check any requirements from your municipality to ensure you know where you’re obligated to keep clear. Also, decide which areas you’ll want tackled. Some common spots are:

• Driveways
• Walkways
• Sidewalks

You should try to get at least three quotes and make sure each quote covers all of the areas you want cleared. You don’t want to wait until there’s 16 inches of snow standing between you and your freshly plowed driveway to discover your snow removal service didn’t include your walkway.

Contact Morse Engineering and Construction for more information.

Souce: angi.com/articles

An overloaded septic tank can lead to health issues and costly repairs.

Typically, septic tanks need to be pumped every 2-5 years, depending on the system and how much use it gets. Ignoring the signs that your tank is full can lead to messy and costly repairs and potential safety issues. Here are the top seven warning signs your septic tank is full—and what to do if you notice them.

What are the signs that your septic tank is full? Well, an important thing to know is that a septic tank has a normal “full” level. This is the standard operating level amount, which is normally 8 to 12 inches from the top of the tank. However, you should leave inspecting the levels of your septic tank to a professional because of exposure to hazardous gases and bacteria.

Although you should not check the tank yourself, you will know the septic tank is full by the following signs:

1. Drains Are Backing Up

One of the worst and most hazardous signs that your septic tank is full is if your drains are backing up. A major sign is if you flush the toilet and have water backing up in other drains, such as the bathtub. Sometimes, it can also mean a clog, but either situation needs to be addressed immediately.

If you notice sewage backing up in any of your drains, you need to avoid using water and call a professional septic tank cleaner as soon as possible.

2. Pipes Make Gurgling Sounds

If you hear gurgling sounds coming from your pipes, it is one of the telltale signs your septic tank is full.

This can be an indicator that your tank is overly filled with solid waste, and this does not allow the wastewater to be disbursed. Of course, bubbling and gurgling pipes can also stem from blocked pipes, drains, and drain vents. That’s why it’s vital to call in a professional if your pipes are making odd noises.

3. Water Drains Slowly

Do your drains seem to be taking their sweet time to empty? If the drains in your entire home are slow to drain, it could be a clog in the main line, or your septic tank is full. When the tank is too full, it can’t operate correctly, which will cause the water to not drain properly.

However, if the issue occurs in one room and not the entire home, it may be an isolated drain clog or plumbing issue.

4. Bad Odors in Your Home or Yard

If you notice foul odors that smell like rotten eggs in your home or yard, that’s a huge warning sign that your septic tank is having issues. There are a few things that could be causing your septic tank to stink, such as clogged drains, blocked vents, or a broken pump. But it can also be a sign that your septic tank is full.

Septic tanks contain hazardous gases, so this smell is not something you should ignore. The primary gases that are present in septic tanks are hydrogen sulfide and methane. Long-term exposure can cause an array of health problems and can even be fatal.

So, follow your nose, and if you smell anything resembling the odor of sulfur, call a professional plumber or septic tank cleaner immediately.

5. Pooling Water in Your Yard

Do you have pools of water in your yard near your septic tank or drain field? Chances are your tank is overflowing, and that’s why you have standing water near the tank. The wastewater has nowhere to go but out.

This water can contain bacteria and is very likely hazardous. Don’t allow pets or children near it, and have your septic tank inspected as soon as possible.

6. Drain Flies

If you have tiny flies buzzing around, it can be a sign that the septic tank is full or there is a problem with the pipes. Drain flies, also known as sewer gnats, feed and lay eggs on decaying organic matter.

So, an overfull septic tank provides a breeding ground for these little pests. They are only about ⅛ of an inch big, but you will notice them hovering around bathtubs, sinks, and showers.

7. Grass Looks Lush

If you notice an area in your yard with lush grass or an area that is consistently soggy, it could mean your septic tank is having problems. This can be from a clogged leach line that runs to your distribution field, or it could be that the tank is malfunctioning or is full.

The wastewater provides “fertilizer” and extra water, which causes the grass to become healthier. Unfortunately, this is not a good thing, and you need to have your septic system inspected to figure out what is causing the issue.

Contact Morse Engineering and Construction for more information on septic systems.

Source: angi.com/articles

A well-maintained septic tank could last 20 to 30 years before it needs a replacement—but rest assured, that day will come. If your septic system is failing, there are usually a few signs. You might need to replace your tank if:

• You notice sewage backing up into toilets, sinks, showers, and bathtubs.
• Your sinks, bathtubs, and showers drain very slowly.
• You see standing water or notice damp spots around your septic tank.
• You smell sewage around your septic tank.
• The grass around your septic tank is noticeably darker or more vibrant than the rest of your lawn and feels spongy (sewage can actually act as fertilizer).

Proper maintenance is the best way to increase the lifespan of your septic system's lifespan. Inspect your system every one to three years and pump your tank every three to five years. If you notice any issues, contact Morse Engineering and Construction.

Source: angi.com

It’s not as simple as just cracking into new ground. There are a lot of moving parts and a little red tape. In a perfect world, you can swap out the tank in around a week—provided you don’t hit a snag. If you need to replace other components in your system along with the tank, expect your local septic tank installation company to tackle the job in four to eight weeks.

This guide will show you how long it takes to replace a septic tank, from planning to your first flush.

Testing Before Installation

Time: Two to Three Weeks

Your septic tank works in conjunction with a leach field, also known as a drain field. If your septic system is leaking waste and contaminating the area around the tank, you’ll need to replace both components—at minimum. If there is extensive damage, you may need a full system replacement. This will push the job into the four- to six-week range (not to mention the cost of a new septic system can exceed $11,000 on the high end).

For this reason, contractors run a percolation test before they replace your tank. This will give them insight into your soil’s texture, volume, consistency, and ability to filter wastewater. It’s an essential part of prep and takes around two to three weeks.

Obtaining Permits

Time: Varies

Before your contractor can replace your septic tank, they’ll need to obtain a permit. Typically, permits are issued by your local health or environmental department—and you’ll typically need one or more building permits. Sometimes, homeowners also need a permit for pumping and disposing of waste if they don’t already have one. Depending on your local government, this could take a few days or weeks and usually require the percolation test and an inspection.

Planning and Excavation

Time: Two to Three Weeks

During this phase, a septic system engineer will plan the replacement. This could be simple if they just need to swap out a tank, but it could take longer if they also need to plan for a new leach field or entirely new system (to dig safely, they’ll need to map out underground utilities).

Once the plans are finished, the excavation begins. A team will need to dig out your old septic tank and any other components that you plan to replace. Overall, planning and excavation takes around two to three weeks, but it could take more or less time. If the ground freezes or the weather is poor, it will push the project back.

Tank Installation

Time: Five to Seven Days

Installation is typically the quickest part of the job. During this phase, your contractor will install your new septic tank and other components. If you’re installing an aerobic tank, this could mean additional electrical circuitry. If you have a pumped system, this could mean replacing the dosing tanks. It all depends on the type of septic system and the condition. Generally, installation takes five to seven days. It could take longer if you hit a snag like poor weather conditions.

For more information, contact Morse Engineering and Construction.

Source: angi.com