Exponent Retirement Tool combines the power of mathematical programming with a graphical user interface to help users plan for retirement. It has many advanced features including the ability to vary portfolio returns, inflation and tax treatment of assets, as well as to create and track multiple simulation runs.

The underlying optimization engine uses the popular XLima® linear optimizer, which provides fast and accurate solutions for large problems. XLima® has also been optimized to work efficiently on multicore machines and high-performance hardware, allowing users to run simulations at a fraction of the time required by other optimizers.

Top Financial Planning Strategies from Exponent Investment Advisors

Unlike other retirement calculators that fix spending at some a priori value, ORP solves for the final total asset balance (FTAB) and maximizes disposable income based on the user-supplied initial conditions. ORP aims to coordinate retirement savings from taxable, tax deferred and Roth accounts in a way that prevents the FTAB from being depleted prematurely or leaving an undesired surplus after death, and increases the variability of annual disposable income.

For more than 60 years, James S. Welch has been implementing mathematical programming systems using matrix description languages and high-performance optimizers. He is a pioneer in the application of matrix methods to financial engineering, and has contributed to the development of several important mathematical software packages including XLima® and Optimal Retirement Planner (ORP). Welch holds a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a master’s degree in computer science from NC State University.…

Tuckpointing Checklist, or repointing, is a common maintenance service that can help maintain the structural integrity of masonry buildings. It can also improve their aesthetics, and extend the lifespan of brick walls.

The first step in the tuckpointing process is to locate damaged areas of mortar. Look for small cracks, crumbling or discolored mortar, or bare areas of brick. It’s important to address these issues as soon as they become apparent, since delaying tuckpointing repairs could lead to more extensive and costly damage.

Tuckpointing: A Complete Homeowner’s Checklist

During tuckpointing, workers grind away the old mortar to a desired depth and then refill the joints with new, lime-based mortar that matches the original color of the brick. This ensures a seamless repair that keeps water from infiltrating the masonry structure and causing additional problems.

When hiring a company to do tuckpointing work, it’s crucial to find a highly-recommended company with good reviews and ratings. The contractor should also offer an on-site evaluation and provide a written proposal for the project. This allows for two-way communication and a clear understanding of the work to be performed.

It’s also important to hire a company with the right tools for the job. Tuckpointing requires a grinder with a proper dust collection system, as grinding out old mortar creates silica dust that can be dangerous if not properly vented. In addition, a skilled and experienced team of professionals can make the process go smoothly and efficiently for homeowners.

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