Browsing Category

home renovation

home renovation

7 Signs It’s Time for a New Roof: Is It About to Leak?

7-signs-its-time-for-a-new-roof-is-it-about-to-leak

Roofs are houses’ primary lines of defense against the elements. They help keep out the wind, rain, heat, and cold while contributing to a home’s energy efficiency. Though roofing materials are designed to withstand high winds, hail, extreme temperatures, moisture, and other hazards, constant exposure tends to take its toll after a while. Over time, even the toughest and most enduring roof will need to be replaced.

Exploring the Roofing Materials Market…

Numerous roofing materials are on the market at present, each of which has its own distinct set of benefits and disadvantages. You can visit Dennis & Sons Contracting to learn more about the options at your disposal. Some of the most popular alternatives are clay tiles, metal, wood shakes, and asphalt shingles. Each of these materials can last 25 years or more under ideal conditions. Ongoing maintenance and prompt repairs can greatly extend their lifespans, but time and harsh weather are still significant issues.

Signs You May Need a New Roof…

Sometimes, it’s difficult to determine whether roof damage has become a problem. This is especially true if you’re on the ground looking for damage on top of the house. That being said, knowing some of the common warning signs can help prevent losses and save you a great deal of money in the long run.

1. Soaring Energy Bills

Your energy bills should be fairly consistent from one month to the next with the exception of certain seasonal upticks or downturns. If you notice your power bills are creeping upward or indoor temperatures just aren’t staying as comfortable as they once did, this could certainly be an indication that your roof isn’t doing its job. The roof is supposed to keep out heat and cold, but aging materials and structural damage have the opposite effect.

2. Moisture and Mold Growth

Roofing materials should keep moisture outside where it belongs, but they sometimes fail to do so. At the same time, poor ventilation could cause condensation to form inside your attic. Consider going into the attic and looking for signs of moisture, such as dark stains on the wood and insulation, rusty nails, and mold and mildew growth. Any of these issues could mean the roof is leaking and needs to be repaired or replaced.

3. Gaps in the Roof

While you’re in the attic looking for moisture damage, you might want to look for other signs of problems. One of these could be light coming through the roof. You shouldn’t be able to see sunlight shining through the roofing materials. If you do, exterior damage is definitely present.

4. Granules on the Ground

Asphalt shingles are covered with small granules made of crushed rocks and other particles. Those granules should stay on the shingles, but they don’t always follow the rules. If you notice stray granules in your gutters’ downspouts or other areas around the house, it may be time to have the shingles replaced.

5. Missing Roof Materials

Roofing materials don’t generally fall off on their own, but severe storms and high winds can cause them to come loose. If you happen to notice some of the shingles, shakes, or tiles are missing from your roof, it’s time for extensive repairs.

6. Damaged Flashings

If you feel comfortable climbing up on the roof for a closer look, be sure to check out the flashings around the chimney, vents, skylights, and other features. These are the seals that help keep out moisture. Cracks, gaps, and signs of weathering mean they need to be repaired or replaced.

7. Time

Whether you notice warning signs of damage or not, it’s a good idea to have your roof inspected at regular intervals. Experts recommend having an inspection carried out every five years for roofs that are ten years old or less. If your roof is older than that or you’re not sure how long it has been in place, be sure to schedule an inspection as soon as possible.

Bottom Line…

When it comes to your roof, it’s best not to take chances. Staying on top of minor damage can reduce the need for more extensive and costly repairs in the future. Some signs of damage are only obvious to a professional eye, but others are often easy to spot without ever going up on the roof. Watch for problems, and be sure to have the roof inspected on a regular basis. If you see signs of damage or just want a little extra peace of mind, don’t hesitate to reach out for further assistance.

0 comment
Share:
home renovation, REAL ESTATE

4 Ways to Reduce Energy Usage in Your Home

4-ways-to-reduce-energy-usage-in-your-home

Reducing home energy use or making a home more efficient should be the goal of any homeowner. Cutting down on a home’s energy use can help you save on utility costs and help reduce your home’s carbon footprint. It is the goal of many communities and utility companies to aid people in reducing their carbon footprints since sources of fuel are becoming more restricted. In addition, reducing your carbon footprint can benefit the environment.

Use Renewable Sources

Even though you can significantly reduce electricity and utility use by upgrading the major components of your home and by changing your habits, converting to renewable sources is ideal. You may be able to receive energy credits and rebates for installing solar panels or tankless hot water heaters. Switching to renewable sources means you’ll be able to convert natural resources like the sun into electricity and heat sources for your home, reducing your home’s dependence on utility companies and fossil fuels.

Upgrade All Major Appliances

The majority of a home’s energy use comes from its heating and cooling equipment, followed by other major kitchen appliances and the hot water heater. Having and operating gas fireplaces can also contribute to a portion of the home’s energy use. Besides programming the thermostat for different temperatures while you’re away from home, upgrading to a high-efficiency air conditioner and furnace can significantly reduce a home’s usage.

Updating kitchen appliances, as well as washer and dryers for versions that carry the energy star rating, can also help reduce a home’s overall consumption. Appliances with the ENERGY STAR rating are manufactured to use less electricity and water. While some of these models can cost more, the savings in energy consumption over time outweighs the extra initial costs. You may even be able to receive energy rebates from utility companies or tax credit for upgrading.

Install Energy-Efficient Windows and Insulation

Another large source of energy loss in a home is through windows, cracks, and crevices. Replacing older windows with energy-efficient ones can also significantly cut back on how much heating and air conditioning is lost. This reduces the wear and tear on the appliances and helps save the homeowner money over time. Upgrading can also result in one-time tax credits or rebates.

Insulating windows on the interior and exterior can go a long way towards reducing costs. Caulking and sealing gaps around the edges of windows, doors, and other openings can prevent air from escaping. This means the hot and cool air produced by the homes HVAC equipment won’t be wasted.

General Maintenance and Upkeep

A home’s energy use can also be reduced through general maintenance and upkeep, such as changing the HVAC filter each month. A person can also use common sense techniques such as supplementing an air conditioner with ceiling fans, only running full loads in the dishwasher, and air drying clothes if feasible. Cleaning air ducts and using blinds to block the sun during summer can also help.

Reducing a home’s energy use requires a combination of investing in new and upgraded technologies and common-sense maintenance. Setting the thermostat at the highest comfortable temperature in the summer and the lowest comfortable temperature in the winter will go a long way towards reducing consumption. However, upgrading major appliances to energy-efficient versions, replacing windows, and converting to renewable energy sources will make the biggest impacts.

0 comment
Share:
DIY, home renovation

4 Ways to Save Money on a Home Renovation

4-ways-to-save-money-on-a-home-renovation

Your home needs to be a space in which you’re comfortable and happy. Sometimes, however, we get tired of seeing the same things every day. The same dull color on the wall, or sitting at the same dinner table on the same chairs. Using the same outdated fridge that your parents gave you as a wedding gift ten years ago.

Whether it’s for aesthetic reasons or to replace outdated or damaged furniture, we all need an occasional renovation. Maybe you need to add space to your house, or just remove a few items.

Big or small, a home renovation can get costly very quickly. Here are four ways you can save a little the next time you renovate.

1. Patience, Budgets, and Savings

Admittedly, that might be three things, but they all go hand in hand. A lot of folks make a big mistake by trying to rush their home renovation. Instead of taking the project step by step, they want everything done as quickly as possible.

This might mean higher contractor fees, costly mistakes, and a lot of loans and emptied credit cards. With a little patience, that doesn’t have to be the case.

First, set a budget. Make sure it’s realistic, as well as one you can meet by saving up. The goal is to avoid using loans or credit cards. Next, talk to any contractors you want to use. Mention that you’ll be paying with cash and ask for possible discounts.

Remember to approach several contractors and compare quotes. You’re not necessarily looking for the cheapest contractor, though. You want a reasonable price that includes everything you need

Pro tip: don’t pay for everything as you go. It’s a mistake that a lot of people make when they do renovations, but it’s a risky gamble, too. There are better ways to create a work schedule with your contractor.

With a little patience, planning, and smart deals, you can save money on your renovation.

2. Don’t Shy Away from Discounts

People can be extremely picky. Some will return a perfectly good piece of furniture because of a small nick, dent, or scratch. Many stores will have a discount section that contains high quality – and fully functional – just slightly damaged furniture.

It’s a bit of a gamble sometimes, but you can mitigate the risk by doing a little research. In the end, you could get expensive big-ticket furniture and appliances for a fraction of their retail price. In fact, you could get as much as 60 percent off.

If that’s not a reason to do a little discount shopping, we don’t know what is.

3. Do It Yourself

While there are a few things that you probably need a specialist for, there’s a lot you can do yourself like a plumbing renovation. For example, repainting a room is simple enough, and it can be a lot of fun as well.

Some suppliers also sell furniture that’s ready to assemble, and we’re not just talking about a few chairs or tables. You also get DIY beds, displays, and great kitchen cabinets, as shown on the Best Online Cabinet website.

All you need is a little effort, an instruction manual, and a healthy dose of motivation. That said, don’t be afraid to get the experts in when you need to. Trying to update old wiring yourself if you’re not an electrician, for example, is a recipe for disaster.

4. Declutter for Profit

When you renovate your home, the chances are that you’ll be left with several items that you don’t need anymore. But your trash might just be someone else’s treasure. Your old sofa might not work for your family anymore, but a recent college graduate might love to have that comfy second-hand couch at an affordable price.

There’s always someone who might be willing to buy your second-hand goodies, and you can comfortably sell them online.

Take Away…

When you renovate your home, you don’t need to spend a small fortune or flounder in credit card debt. Just remember patience and planning, discounts, DIY, and decluttering for a profit. If you remember these tips, you can save money on your next home renovation.

0 comment
Share:
home renovation, KITCHENS

5 Factors to review when Upgrading your Kitchen

5-factors-to-review-kitchen-renovation

When the time comes to upgrade your home, the kitchen is often the number one choice for most families. Most of us consider the kitchen the epicentre of any home. If your budget is limited and a complete renovation is not possible, you can still achieve outstanding results by updating a few specific features. However, having a generous outlook on your expenditure will pay off in the long run.

A kitchen renovation will Increase the Appeal and Value of your Home

There are numerous advantages to improving this key area of your home. The illusion of space can be amplified, you will be able to enjoy modern functional updates, and your productivity will increase. When planning the details of the renovation, you should also plan to update the appliances in the room, which improves functionality dramatically. The alluring project can also enhance aesthetics as even the smallest of changes can make a massive impact. Lastly, remodelling radically increases the value of your home, which will make it quicker and easier to sell.

Upgrade your Appliances

There will be times when appliances stop serving their purpose. One way to upgrade is by replacing appliances with modern and appealing models. You can purchase newer models of ovens, microwaves, and cookware. A review of Made In cookware will help you decide on the best cookware you can buy to upgrade the overall functionality.

Revamp your Cabinets

Cabinets are one of the first features to be upgraded as they are an obvious requirement. They are also the first thing to get stained or damaged. If you want to modernize your cabinets, you can start with the hinges, and latches, as this improves the look significantly. Some homeowners even go so far as installing self-closing cabinet mechanisms which prevent slamming and allow you to take whatever item you want out of the cabinet and walk away without worrying if you have left it open or not.

Sinks, Faucets and Hardware

Sinks, faucets, and hardware are the third most replaced elements. These elements are often upgraded together with counters. New fixtures and more efficient faucets can make anything from washing the dishes after dinner to cleaning vegetables for a salad more pleasant. Enhancing these factors can even make your home more environmentally friendly.

Wall Design

The fourth most common design option that will have a massive impact is the walls. Whether you choose flat paint, a unique painting technique, wallpaper, or paneling, the walls can affect the look and feel of the entire room by influencing the first impression your kitchen can offer. Simple paint is probably one of the most cost-effective ways to spruce up the look as well.

As a homeowner, you cannot start tearing down walls or any permanent fixtures in preparation of making significant changes until you have a budget. Your budget should detail all the relevant costs when doing a complete kitchen remodel. If your budget is somewhat restricting, the modifications as mentioned above will undoubtedly cost far less than a renovation. You can still make impactful changes that will make your kitchen stand out more than before and be the space that you envisioned it to be. The features mentioned above are worth considering and will give you the most flexibility in designing your new dream kitchen.

SHOP KITCHEN …

1 comment
Share:
BATHROOMS, DIY, home renovation

How to install frosted glass film

how-to-install-frosted-glass-window-film

Glass doors, glass walls, glass room dividers, and large windows are very popular right now. But, once all that glass is used and people are actually using the rooms, there may be issues with privacy, sun glare, UV damage, Or security. The glass is fine, it just needs one more step to work better. Window films come in many different thicknesses, colors, and designs that will add design interest while giving people a little privacy.

Why Use a Film?

Installing frosted window film is not a hard project if quality films are purchased to start with. After purchasing good-quality window films, they must be installed by the supplier or by the building owner. The reasons most people decide to add window films are for additional privacy, added design and beauty, or added security. When completed some buildings or office spaces have a lot of glass in windows, walls, and dividers. While all that glass is nice for natural light and the appearance of more space, some people might need a little more privacy or the space might need more decorative elements.

Photo credit: DecorPad

An employee with an office with glass walls might want a little more privacy for meetings or for working alone. Windows might be in places where too many people can look into the office space. Adding a film can add privacy and security while allowing that valuable light to come into the office. Plane clear glass windows might need a little dressing up to add to the beauty of the business. Window films come in many attractive designs. The UV light coming into a space might present a hazard for fading materials or for causing a room to overheat or have an inconvenient glare.

What are 5 Steps to Install Window Film?

The beauty and usefulness of window film depend on how well it is installed. It should not have crinkles, folds, or tears to mar its beauty. There should not be any bubbles in the surface and the film should uniformly adhere to the window or wall glass. Five installations steps should include:

1. First, choose the correct window film for the job. There are lots of films on the market for different purposes and budgets.

2. Clean the glass area very well and dry it thoroughly. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for cleaning method and products.

3. Cut the film to cover the window allowing 1/2 inch extra all around. This will be trimmed for a perfect fit. Measure the glass space to be covered carefully because this is a project where there is no room for error.

4. Remove the film backing and wet the film or the window as per directions and position the film carefully on the glass. Reposition if necessary.

5. Finally, use a squeegee or other flat tool to flatten the film to the surface and eliminate any bubbles. Then, carefully trim any excess film.

Photo credit: HomeBunch

Films Can be Replaced

When the film is correctly installed it will add beauty and privacy to the room it is used in. And, there is an added benefit to window films such as these. They are easily removable, so if the building owner wants a new design, it is easy to change window film to a new design or color. When a rental office gets a new tenant, they can remove and replace the window film.

0 comment
Share:
BATHROOMS, home renovation

7 Reasons to Renovate your Bathroom

7-reasons-to-renovate-your-bathroom

People spend a lot of time in the bathroom – bathing, getting ready for the day or for bedtime, and meeting personal needs. So, this room should be a pleasant place to spend time in, it should be convenient, and it should offer privacy. If a person likes to soak in a tub, the bathroom should have a soaking tub. If a family member likes to take showers, there should be a nice shower. Homeowners are no longer settling for a small crowded bathroom that is inconvenient to use. They want more.

Is It Time to Renovate The Bathroom?

Because a bathroom renovation requires planning, effort, time, and financial outlay, it is a project that homeowners are reluctant to take on. But, home bathroom renovations are a good investment if they are done correctly. Homeowners may renovate their bathrooms for seven or more reasons. The bathroom that the buyer walked through when purchasing a home might have seemed OK, but after living in the home for some time, that same bathroom might not be adequately meeting the family’s needs.

Bathroom Renovations Can be Costly

The family may be interested in adding Cast Iron Bathtubs and other popular features. But, is it time to renovate? A serious bathroom renovation can cost from $12,000 to as much as $90,000. Some families do a lot of the work themselves to save money and some bathrooms get low-cost renovations such as a new bathtub or a simple paint job. This renovation project requires some licensed, professional help including electricians, plumbers, building contractors, and ceramic tile or natural stone installers.

Seven Common Reasons to Renovate Bathrooms

In addition to just hating everything about the family bathroom, there are practical reasons for taking on this renovation project. The reasons families renovate bathrooms include:

1. Make the bathroom function better with a better layout and more storage. Get rid of leaking toilets and faucets. Install a water-saving showerhead that functions better and makes showering more enjoyable. Add lighting above the vanities and other dark corners of the bathroom. Add a double vanity where there was only one sink. Add towel bars so everyone has adequate space for their towels.

2. Solve ongoing plumbing issues in an outdated bathroom by renovating the bathroom. Plumbing and electrical issues can be addressed during a renovation when licensed professionals are employed. Problems with drainage and water pressure are often caused by plumbing mistakes or old plumbing that needs modernizing.

3. Add value to the home with a bathroom renovation that meets modern bathroom standards for home buyers. The homeowner will spend anywhere from a few thousand to as much as $90,000 on a bathroom renovation so it should increase the value of the home and make it easier to sell the house when the time comes. A good bathroom renovation can have as much as a 50% return on investment for the homeowner.

The most important improvements to add value include updating worn-out items, getting new modern bathroom fixtures, and making the bathroom more functional. Take the time to visit home improvement centers with model bathrooms to learn what colors and finishes are popular now.

4. Improve the energy efficiency of the bathroom with new low flush toilets and water-saving shower units. Every aspect of an old, outdated bathroom can be wasting either water or electricity. New heating and lighting fixtures can save energy and improve bathroom comfort. Water is costing more and more, so using water-saving toilets and faucets is important.

5. Add a whole new bathroom where one is most needed. If the family home has only one bathroom to serve both parents and children, a new bathroom might be considered a necessity. Finding the budget and space to add a new bathroom could be a challenge. A master bathroom added adjoining the master bedroom would be a good investment. If the bedroom is large or has a guest bedroom next-door, space could be taken from both areas to add a master bathroom. Adding a whole new bathroom will require the services of a building contractor specializing in bathroom renovations.

This is because the new bathroom must be hooked up to the home’s existing electrical and plumbing systems. This requirement will limit where the bathroom can be located and may affect the size of the finished bathroom.

6. A renovated bathroom can better meet the family member’s needs including more storage. Even with a small renovation budget, homeowners can get the best return for their investment by concentrating on projects such as replacing the bathroom vanity, sinks, faucets, and countertop. Natural stone countertops are a good investment and are durable and easy to clean.

The bathroom flooring can be replaced with ceramic tile, good-quality vinyl, or natural stone tiles to be waterproof and durable while looking stylish. The new floor can also have radiant heating under it for added comfort in cold climates.

The tub and shower features can be combined or separate depending on the size of the bathroom and the budget. Especially in master bathrooms, a walk-in shower is a good investment. The tub should be a nice deep soaker tub if there is space for one.

7. Add beauty and style to the bathroom with a facelift that meets modern design and decor standards. Don’t use colors and decor items that will soon go out of style. Instead, go for a more timeless style and color scheme that will be enjoyable to live with for years to come. Add spots of bright color with towels and shower curtains that can be changed at will.

Keeping Costs Down

A homeowner can keep costs down by shopping for materials carefully and taking advantage of sales and closeout pricing. If the budget is limited, go for standard shower features and skip the heated floor feature. Go for quality, energy-efficient products with a timeless look. Don’t buy cheap products, take the time to find good-quality products at sale or clearance prices.

The effort and money invested in a renovated or new bathroom will pay for itself every day the family uses the room in its new, improved form.

SHOP BATHROOM ACCESSORIES….

0 comment
Share:
home renovation

Planning to Install an Air Conditioning Unit?

planning-to-install-an-air-conditioning-unit

When the time comes to install an air-conditioning unit for family comfort during the hot months, the homeowner must decide whether to purchase and install the air conditioning unit themselves or go to an HVAC company and have experts install the air conditioning equipment. This decision must be driven by the homeowner’s budget and skill level. Mistakes can be costly. Since wiring and plumbing might be involved, many homeowners choose to leave this job to professionals.

Hire a Professional HVAC Company

The easiest, safest way to get the house air conditioned for summer is to contact a company such as blairsair.com and have them inspect the home and suggest different possible air conditioning systems for the home. They can then give the homeowner quotes on different units and their installation. Choose a company that is licensed and insured with satisfaction guarantees. Check the company website for information and customer ratings and comments. Check with the local Better Business Bureau. It doesn’t hurt to get two or three bids and then choose the company that will best meet family needs.

Consider These 13 Mistakes People Make Installing Air conditioners

Before considering installing your own air conditioning unit, learn how to properly do the job by reading how-to books or watching online tutorials. Choose a system that lends itself to homeowner installation and comes with complete installation instructions. If the homeowner is hiring an installation company, make sure they avoid these serious installation mistakes. Air conditioning installation mistakes can be made doing the work one’s self or hiring the wrong installer.

1. Purchasing the wrong size air conditioning unit for the home. The size unit needed depends on the size of the house and the number of people living there. The room or home area should match the BTU or the British thermal power unit listed on the system. The unit capacity or strength should also match the size space to be cooled. A guide is that the cooling power should equal 2000 BTUs for every 50 square meters.

2. Mistakes with electrical wiring during the installation can affect the working of the air conditioner and can be dangerous. There should not be any exposed wires. This is where a qualified heating and cooling technician or licensed electrician must be used. The unit’s manufacturer’s warranty can be voided if a professional does not do the wiring.

3. Not enough insulation on the refrigerant suction line or improperly installed insulation will affect the efficiency of the unit. It is also important to check the system for coolant levels and leaks. A leak can cause health problems for those living in the home and also adversely affect the efficiency of the system, costing more in electric bills. Do not assume a new unit will not have leaks because it could have been damaged in shipping or during the installation process. The correct refrigerant charge is also important.

4. The suction line should not have right angles because this causes too much resistance and makes the air conditioning unit work harder to achieve the correct amount of cooling.

5. In both split and wall air conditioning units, there must be enough space on all sides of the unit for proper airflow and effective functioning. Do not plant shrubs or other plants too close to the outside unit in an effort to hide it.

6. The refrigerant pipes must not be too long between the outdoor and indoor units of the central air conditioning system. In addition, installers can choose the wrong size pipes or connections for the distances they will run. Read the installation manual for the air conditioning system being installed and use the diameter pipes specified for the length of run.

7. There may be permits needed to install central air conditioning. Make sure the permits that are needed have been applied for.

8. The airflow is not sufficiently considered. Air conditioning is a complex system that needs to be designed to meet the needs of each home. This includes planning cooling zones and sizing of the system. The air conditioning system must be carefully chosen for quality and efficiency. This includes containing a good filter system to protect the equipment, improving the air quality in the home, and reducing allergens. Some poor-quality systems do not include filters and draw dirty air from outside the home and dump contaminants into the home with unfiltered air. Some systems have the air filter assembly in the wrong location to be efficient.

9. The homeowner doesn’t get a signed contract with the air conditioning unit installer. Not hiring a qualified, licensed technician can void the manufacturer’s warranty.

10. Putting the thermostats in the wrong places. This might involve sunlight hitting the thermostat all day and throwing off readings. Using cheap thermostats that do not use the latest technology can be a costly mistake. Thermostats should be programmable with unit timers so they can be set to run less when no one is home to save energy costs.

11. When installing the air conditioning unit, the drip pan should be removed. If it is left on, the airflow can be reduced and the unit efficiency will drop several percentage points. Installing an incorrect drainage system can cause damage to the system and expensive repairs down the line. Water must be drained effectively and safely so it does not spill on other unit components.

12. The system ductwork must be properly installed and sealed to avoid air leaks and wasted energy. This is a place some installers skimp on the quality of materials or cut corners on labor. This is why only reputable HVAC installers should be used.

13. Air return vents must be correctly placed so they do not become blocked by furniture or boxes. The idea is not to hide vents but to place them where they do the most good.

If An Existing Air Conditioning System Needs Updating, Replace the Whole System

If one part of an air conditioning system is worn out, the whole system is showing wear. Whole-house air conditioning systems are two-part systems with an outdoor condenser unit and the indoor equipment that includes coils, bowers, and fans. The inside parts also include a duct system and thermostats. All the parts are designed to work together as one system. A mix of old and new parts will not work efficiently.

0 comment
Share:
BATHROOMS, home renovation

3 Plumbing Jobs You Should Never Attempt to Do Yourself

3-plumbing-jobs-you-should-never-attempt-to-do-yourself

Plenty of homeowners have the knowledge and confidence required to fix leaky faucets or clogged traps. Licensed professional plumbers, of course, have skills that allow them to tackle far greater challenges.

It can easily make sense as a homeowner to do it yourself when a minor plumbing repair is needed. Try to take on the wrong type of job, and serious, unpleasant consequences will often follow.

There are a number of types of plumbing work where it is best to defer to experienced professionals. Arrange for plumbing services from United Plumbing or another highly regarded company in such cases, and you will always be better off. A look at three types of plumbing jobs you should never attempt yourself follows.

1. Clearing a Clogged Sewer Line

Working around sewage is rarely pleasant even for pros who have effective ways to deal with it. Most homeowners automatically call for professional help as soon as they realize that they have run into sewer line problems.

There are several reasons why it will always be best to have a professional plumber clear or fix a sewer line that needs attention. One of these is that a faulty repair can cause a formerly controlled problem to escalate. That can leave parts of a home flooded with sewage that will be costly and truly unpleasant to remove.

Another issue is that working with sewage can be dangerous, a fact that few homeowners realize. Potentially harmful gases and other noxious substances can build up within sewer lines to threatening levels.

When a sewer line needs to be fixed, the required work will often be quite involved, as well. That can mean needing specialized equipment that a homeowner is unlikely to have on hand, as well as equally unusual skills.

Finally, homeowners who make mistakes while working on sewer lines can find themselves becoming exposed to other sorts of problems. Should a botched repair job cause trouble downstream, municipal authorities might demand compensation.

2. Installing a Water Heater

High-quality water heaters can provide many years of service but will eventually need to be replaced. Installing a more efficient water heater can make sense even when an existing one still functions perfectly.

It will always be best to have a pro handle the required work, however. For one thing, electric water heaters need access to high-voltage electricity that is particularly dangerous to work with. For another, a mistake made while installing a water heater can subject a home to the risk of water damage.

3. Replacing Pipes

Minor plumbing leaks can often be fixed fairly easily using kits and products available at home improvement stores. In many cases, a permanent solution will require replacing a length of pipe that has deteriorated too much to remain reliable.

It will always be best to call a plumber in such situations, because any mistakes that get made can become quite costly. Replacing a piece of pipe might seem simple, but it takes quite a bit of know-how and preparation.

Fail to get everything just right and a new section of pipe will spring a small leak, in the best-case scenario. It can just as well fail catastrophically and unleash many gallons of water on a home before the problem gets resolved.

While there are plenty of other times when it will normally be best to call a plumber, these three situations always merit professional intervention. Even homeowners who are confident in their ability to fix minor plumbing problems should call professionals at such times.

SHOP BATHROOM…..

0 comment
Share:
home renovation

Renovating your townhouse

renovating-your-townhome-what-to-know

Have you been considering renovating your townhouse? Maybe you’ve already started but want to know what to do next? In this article, we are going to talk about everything you need to know about starting your home renovations.  

Form a budget: 

One of the very first things you’ll need to consider before beginning your renovations is the budget. Renovation costs can be expensive, and you’ll want to set yourself a guideline for each area and how much you can spend. For example, set aside a budget number for décor, painting, expansions, labor costs etc. Starting a project with a budget will ensure that you don’t overspend. 

Consider hiring an architect: 

If you’re looking at expanding or changing the layout of your home, you might want to consider hiring an architect. There are many different types of architect services, all of which can help with your plans. Some of these include drafting, knockdown projects, restorations and additions. They can also provide you with renovation ideas to get your house looking its best. 

Find out if you need approval: 

In most countries, permission and approval are required for particular renovations. If you are extending or making significant layout changes to your home, chances are you will need permission from a council. An architect can help ensure that everything is in place before you ask permission; however, if you feel confident, you can do this on your own.  

Determine what you can do yourself: 

If you’re quite handy yourself, you might be able to DIY some of the renovations yourself. This is a great way to save money on your improvements and can include smaller tasks such as painting or patching walls. If you think you can confidently complete some of the jobs, make a list of these things. DIY can help save you money, and you won’t need to hire someone to do it for you. 

0 comment
Share:
home renovation, REAL ESTATE

Timber Garage : 7 Things to Keep in Mind

timber-garage-7-things-to-keep-in-mind

Homeowners explore several installations that help them maximize protection for their automobiles. A garage is a convenient and strong option for keeping automobiles safer and lowering the potential for auto theft. The type of garage defines how much protection the property owner has and what other benefits they receive from the installation. Reviewing the 7 things to keep in mind about timber garages shows property owners why beneficial these installations are and why they are a great choice for protecting automobiles.

1. Provides Natural Insulation for the Garage

Providing natural insulation for the garage improves its energy efficiency and prevents temperature changes that could damage items inside the garage including the automobile and seasonal items. The insulation can prevent temperature changes that could affect the temperature inside the property and cause higher energy consumption. Installing a garage that has the natural insulation can help the property owner save hundreds of dollars a year on their heating and cooling costs. Property owners who want to review how beneficial natural insulation is learn more about timber garages now.

Photo credit : Unknown

2. Homeowners Can Customize Their Garage

Customizing the garage can give homeowners a more versatile installation that matches their home design and makes it look amazing. Since the garages are constructed of timber, the contractors can create any size and shape the homeowner prefers. Reviewing design could help the property owner find a better choice for housing their automobiles. The garage designs can look like a barn or any structure the property owner wants. Contractors can get creative with these designs and give the property owner literally anything they want.

3. More Affordable Than Metal Garages

A timber garage presents the homeowner with a more affordable solution than a metal garage. The materials used for the garage construction cost far less than steel or tin. The contractors can plan out a beautiful design for the garage that won’t present a dent in the homeowner’s wallet and will stay within their budget. Since the timber is set up in panels, the contractor won’t need as much timber to construct the garage and will save the homeowner a lot of money.

Photo credit: Oakwrights

4. Completely Recyclable Materials

The garages are environmentally friendly and won’t present a risk to the environment if the homeowner decides they want a different garage later on. Since it is constructed of timber, the entire garage is completely recyclable and won’t end up in a landfill. When the garage is no longer viable, the homeowner can have the entire garage sent to a recycling center to be transformed into new products. The wood is used for a variety of products and keep costs for manufacturers lower. This, in turn, presents consumers with lower costs on new products. The garages are a great choice for anyone who wants to go green and use natural products for their garage and their home designs.

5. Easy Maintenance for Homeowners

Homeowners won’t face higher than average maintenance costs for their garage. Since it is constructed of timber, the homeowner can use sealants to protect the wood and prevent it from becoming damaged or rotten. If any of the logs become damaged, the homeowner can replace it at a lower cost and won’t have to worry about major expenses that present a financial hardship. The garages don’t cost a lot upfront and stay within the homeowner’s budget. Wooden garages don’t require extensive maintenance or complex fixes. The property owner can keep their costs lower by choosing the timber garage. Sealants can increase protection for the garage and can be reapplied each year to maximize protection for the garage design.

Photo credit: Shiresoak

6. Staining or Paint

The owner can stain or paint their garage any color or shade they prefer. The installation is more versatile when it comes to style since it is all-natural and customizable. Property owners can choose any stain or paint color for their garage and change it at any time they want without any issues. If the homeowner wants to keep the garage more natural-looking, they can use a sealant to protect the wood from moisture damage and other elemental effects.

It’s a great choice since the homeowner can choose a color or stain that matches their home, and the garage will coordinate well with their existing home design. However, if they install the garage separately from their home, a natural stain can make the garage looking appealing around a garden or landscaping. This could increase the curb appeal for the property and give the homeowner more value. Reviewing their options for the new garage gives the property owner better insight to how appealing these designs are and helps them choose the best installation for protecting their automobiles.

7. Take Less Time to Install

The garages are easy to install, and the contractors can have them installed on the property within one day. The wooden designs are constructed in panels and connected securely. Customized garages are constructed according to the homeowner’s choices. They choose the exact dimensions, shape, and size of the garage. Contractors can get more creative with wooden designs and create them to look like barns and create intriguing doors that match the home design. It’s a great choice for homeowners who love rustic concepts and want to carry their designs over to other fixtures on their property including their garage. Coordinating the designs help the homeowner improves the way their overall property looks.

Homeowners explore several options when they design to install a garage. Instead of choosing a more traditional metal garage, the property owners can choose an alternative that is a more environmentally-friendly choice. Wooden garages are a great choice for anyone who wants a recyclable choice for their installation. The timber garage is a more cost-effective choice for homeowners and won’t take a long time to install on the property. The installations are easy to maintain and won’t present a higher cost to repair. Since it is wood, the homeowner can stain or paint the garage in any way they want and keep it looking beautiful. Reviewing timber garages and their benefits shows property owners why these selections are great choices for their home.

0 comment
Share:
1…567