You should clean your detectors one or two times per year to maintain their efficiency and reduce the number of false alarms.  The small diode light attracts small bugs, “no-see-ums”,  spiders and dust.  Set a schedule to clean your detectors when you change to and from day-light-savings time – spring and fall.  Replace your batteries once per year or whenever you hear them chirping.  Read the manufacturer’s instructions on how to clean your smoke detector.  If you do not have the instructions, here are some basics:

Things You’ll Need:

• Vacuum cleaner, with upholstery brush
• Rag
• Pledge

Remove your smoke detector from the ceiling or wall. It is easier to clean if you can set it on your table or hold it in your hands.

Remove the batteries and use a dry rag to dust the battery compartment. Place new batteries in the smoke detector and close the battery compartment.

Vacuum any dust particles and bugs in the smoke detector.

Spray some Pledge on a dry rag and wipe down the outside of the smoke detector. Pledge is mainly for wood, but it attracts dust and is perfect for collecting any dust on the outside of the smoke detector.

Replace the smoke detector on the wall or ceiling.

Test to be sure it is operating properly.

We are very proud to be honored by Remodeling Magazine as a recipient of their 2010 “Big50″ Award.

Learn more about this honor by reading an excerpt from our Press Release:

Each year since 1986, the Remodeling Big50 inducts the owners of 50 remodeling companies that have set exceptionally high standards for professionalism and integrity through exemplary business practices, craftsmanship, and impact in their community or the industry at large. Big50 remodelers run successful, often growing, companies of various sizes that have taken the lead in raising industry standards.

The Big50 selection process has become increasingly rigorous in recent years, and the result is one of the strongest classes to date. All 2010 inductees stood up to detailed examinations of their businesses and their books, and they all demonstrated an admirably deft ability to restructure, retrench, and hustle to remain viable in a challenging economic climate.

“We are very honored to receive this distinction,” says Tom, President of Barber Construction.  “The award recognizes excellence and leadership, and we are privileged to be named to this select group of remodelers.”

A photo of us receiving our reward in Alexandria, VA is below and click here to read our feature Article in Remodeling Magazine.

We have just recently launched our new company website! Our aim was to make a website that was clean, clear and easy for our clients and visitors to navigate and read – we hope we have accomplished just that.

If you have any feedback for us, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

On this “Blog” section we will be posting information on new products and the remodeling/building industry at large. We’ll also be sharing what’s new with our business and much more.

We’ll make it fun and educational – and hope you’ll stop by to read it every month or so!

Until next time!

-Tom Barber