Concrete Slab Cracks - Don't Go Crackers

People believe that cracks in concrete slabs, such as basement floors and driveways, are construction defects. It is wisely written that there are two types of concrete slabs: those that are already cracked and those that going to crack. Armed with this bit of wisdom, you can develop realistic expectations about slab cracks. The following discussion deals primarily with new home construction; however, if you use good judgment, this information applies to slabs found in most homes and light commercial buildings.
Experts will tell you that slabs may not crack if you follow proper procedures. Proper procedures include: preparing and compacting the supporting material under the slab, using the correct concrete mix, delivering the mix promptly to the job site, prompt and professional laying and finishing at the job site, and curing at the correct temperature and moisture. If even one of these procedures is not followed to near perfection, slab cracks can result.
It is reasonable to spend the time and money required to lay concrete by the book in commercial construction (with large budgets). In residential construction, one must balance the cost required to follow proper procedures against the benefit of having crack-free slabs. Because most slab cracks are cosmetic, the cost often exceeds the benefit; thus, it's common and reasonable to see minor cracks in residential slabs.
One usually asks three questions when evaluating cracks in residential concrete slabs:

where is the crack?
how big is the crack, both vertically and horizontally?
how active is the crack?

Answers to these questions will help determine how to deal with the crack.
Crack location is important because different locations have different intended uses. Cracks in areas intended for vinyl, tile, or wood floor coverings might adversely affect the cosmetic and functional performance of these materials. Vinyl can reveal very small cracks. Cracks with vertical displacement can cause cracks in tile and grout and squeaks in wood floors. Cracks that run through stem walls and footings can be more serious than other cracks because cracks in structural components may adversely affect structural integrity.
Size matters when evaluating concrete cracks. The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) standard for cracks in interior slabs requires repairing cracks exceeding 3/16 inch wide, or high (vertical displacement). State regulators may have different standards. Smaller cracks may be patched, but this is usually not a good solution because the patch may be more noticeable than the original crack and because the patching material may crack or become dislodged. It is often best to leave hairline cracks alone.
Cracks with vertical displacement in driveways, walkways, and patios can create a trip hazard. Generally accepted rules for these cracks in older construction are less clear. Displacement of 1/4 inch or more can present a trip hazard, but some inspectors will not call out a crack under ½ inch displacement, particularly in older homes. Extra care should be taken if children or those with reduced mobility regularly use concrete slabs with greater than ¼ inch vertical displacement.
Evidence of continuing crack activity is the most difficult question to answer and can have the greatest impact on how best to deal with a crack. Evaluating continuing activity is a matter of judgment and experience. For example, cracks where prior repairs have been attempted can be a sign of continuing activity. It can also be a sign of a poor repair job or the normal aging of the repair material. Crack monitoring devices exist, but they often are not practical on slab cracks and they usually require monitoring over a long period of time.
You should not be concerned about cracks in most residential concrete slabs. Wide cracks and those with vertical displacement should be brought to the attention of a qualified professional for evaluation and recommendation
Shoe Horn

Dropshipping 101 - Don't Be Misled When Selecting a Dropship Warehouse

Choosing a dropship warehouse is a vital decision when starting up an online business in order to avoid having to personally stock and ship your inventory. It is also an essential component when it comes to managing your overhead costs. A dropship warehouse is not only imperative to costs but can potentially be a long term asset to your business.

However, the internet is full of false information, spam, and misleading advertisements. As with any other start-up venture, you must take the time to do your research before selecting a dropship warehouse. One of the best ways to ensure that your selected dropshipper is legitimate is to use your favorite search engine to see what you can find out. Search the name of the warehouse, alongside the word 'scam', to see if there is any online chatter about how the wholesaler runs their business. Check with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), as well, to see if they have any information on the validity of the company. If the dropshipper offers a guarantee and reliable testimonials from previous customers, it is a bit more likely that they are for real.

Be wary of businesses that market themselves as wholesalers but are really just setting themselves up as the middle man. How the 'fake' warehouses work is that they begin by establishing contact with a couple of dropshippers they will utilize on your behalf. Another warning sign, like many online scams, is that there are often significant fees associated with their services. Why pay someone to deal with the wholesaler when you could easily perform this task yourself and save the cost?

A legitimate company, like Salehoo, may charge an access fee but they will have an established reputation in the industry, will be able to provide customer testimonials, will be established with the Better Business Bureau, will have an available and easy to contact customer support department, and will typically have guarantees for their services.

A false company will try to woo you with offers that appear too good to be true, such as a complete website customized for you that will sell whatever you have to offer from designer handbags to electronics.

Do your research and cut out the middle man! Take the time to really build an enticing and appealing niche website for what you want to sell and differentiate the good dropship warehouse companies from the mediocre. The time you spend up front will more than pay for itself when you avoid the fees, hassles, and disappointments of working with companies who are more interested in your money than in how successful your business becomes.

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