Benefits Of Replacing Your Old Roof Vs Repair

 

A roof is a vital part of any house. It shields the structure from weather and protects your belongings during storms and other situations. However, any roofing is likely to wear out with time. When this happens, a roof replacement project becomes inevitable to resolve the issue. Still, many homeowners delay the replacement tenure due to the cost factor. However, according to Blue Collar Roofing in South Jordan there are a host of reasons how new roofing can present positive benefits to your home.

Reduces energy bills

An old or worn-out roof can impact the efficiency of your heating/cooling devices. Your roofing might be likely leaking cool air during summer and/or losing heat during winter. To keep you comfortable indoors, your cooling and heating devices might be overused.

This, in turn, will elevate energy consumption, and the result is higher energy bills. When you replace the roof, it won’t leak air in summer or lose heat during winter. Consequently, your HVAC devices won’t be overworked, and the result is low monthly energy bills.

Increase in home value

Even if the roof shingles aren’t damaged or worn out, it makes sense to replace the roof for that curb appeal. Most of the new roofing enhances the exterior of your house. Elegantly designed roofs look great and grab the attention of any person.

If you plan to sell your home soon, installing a new roof could form part of your tenure to sell the house. Combined with a paint job or new sliding, a new roof makes an older home look completely new. Such a situation is likely to attract a large number of potential buyers. So, you stand a chance to fetch a better price for your house.

Relief

Nobody wants the worry of their roofing’s ability to withstand harsh weather conditions and/or damages. Every time a storm hits, you may get scared if your roof will collapse, thus creating chaos here and there. New roofing gets rid of all these worries. Knowing that your roof is new and rock-solid provides immense peace of mind for many years.

Saves money on repairs

When the roof turns old, it gives rise to a lot of repairs every now and then. Repairs and maintenance could eat plenty of money and time on your end. Also, you’ll need to check the roof regularly to detect leaks and other issues. If you fail to do so, a minor problem can compound, inviting a major danger in the near future.

If you install new roofing through a reputed contractor, it’ll stand to harsh weather conditions without wearing out soon. Also, there will be no room for cracks or leaks due to professional installation. If you add up the money saved over time with the money expended on a new roof, you’ll conclude that changing the old roofing is a much better and affordable option.

Warranty and guarantee

Any old roofing gets worn out and outdated with the passage of time. There’s no guarantee when and how your rooftop will come off or stand the test of time. You’re at the mercy of luck with an old roof. If luck runs out, your roofing as well as the entire structure may come down during heavy rains or windy weather.

By changing the roof, you bring luck in your favor. Also, the chances of unfortunate incidents get drastically minimized. Most importantly, expert roofing contractors provide guarantees and warranties on their services. If something happens within the given period, you can call the professional to fix the issue without paying a single dime.

Ensures a major home renovation project

Do you wish to add dormers or skylights to your house? If so, you may have to modify the roof-line, which may not be possible with your existing roof. In such a situation, replacing the roof is the only option. By installing new roofing, you can carry out major remodeling projects and transform the decor of your overall home. Not to forget, you don’t have to expend too much on the project.

Final thoughts

Replacing your roof is beneficial in many cases. In addition to protecting your belongings and loved ones, new roofing presents a slew of benefits. Low energy bills, increase in home value, peace of mind, and renovation are a few of the highlights of changing the roof of your house. This is why it’s advisable to install new roofing to get rid of problems with your existing roof. However, make sure you turn to a credible roofing contractor to enjoy effective installation at the best possible price.

 

Trendy and Budget-Friendly Home Renovation Ideas That Will Make Your Home Look Fresh

 

Does your house need to be renovated? If that is the case, then make sure that the home renovations that you decide to go for will give it a fresh and trendy vibe. While it might sound like a huge investment, it does not have to be that way. There are many budget-friendly ways to make your home look as if it were brand new.

To make it much easier for you, we prepared a list of trendy and budget-friendly ideas that should make your house look fresh and well-taken-care-of in no time. Check it out!

Replace Your Garage Door Springs

If you own a garage, you should take a look at your garage door torsion springs. Due to the fact that you probably use your garage on a daily basis, the springs will get worn out and stop doing their job at some point.

If you can see a gap under your garage door and have trouble with opening it or closing it, it means that that day has come and that you should replace your garage door springs as soon as possible. Luckily, they are not that expensive and should be really easy to get.

Add Some Color to Your Bathroom

Painting the walls of your bathroom is one of the best ways to make your house look much better without spending a fortune on expensive upgrades. Ideally, you should use subtle colors, such as light green or pastel pink. If you are not a fan of these colors, traditional white will probably do just fine.

Clean Your Kitchen Appliances

If your kitchen appliances are dirty, there is no way you will ever feel like you have a clean kitchen. Considering this, clean them up as soon as possible and make sure that they stay that way for as long as possible.

To do that, you should clean your appliances every time you use them or once every week. You can use hot water and dish soap to do it quickly and effectively.

Change Your Curtains

Curtains are not very expensive, and yet they can change the vibe of a room in the blink of an eye. If you think that the rooms in your house need that kind of change, try purchasing new curtains. However, make sure that they match the color scheme you used in the room in which they will be located. That way, they will not look out of place.

Replace Your Light Bulbs

Did you know that lighting can have a huge impact on the way a room makes you feel? For instance,  warm lighting is said to promote relaxation, which makes it your go-to type of lighting when it comes to your bedroom.

On the other hand, if you go for cold lighting, it is supposed to make you feel more focused and energized. Considering this, if you feel like the lighting in your house needs an upgrade, buy a few new light bulbs and experiment with different types of lighting to see if that is true!

Buy a Few Plants

Plants can do wonders when it comes to your home decor. Not only do they look beautiful and fresh, but they also clean the air and fill it with fresh oxygen. If you worry that you will not be able to take care of a few plants, go for the ones that are both pretty and low-maintenance, such as succulents.

Freshen Up Your Sofa

Sofas are one of the pieces of furniture that you are guaranteed to use on a regular basis. As a result, they tend to get dirty and worn really fast. If that is the case when it comes to your sofa, try to freshen up its looks a bit.

You can do it in many different ways. For instance, you can clean the cushions or change them completely if you have the means to do that. Additionally, you might want to purchase a few new pillows or a brand new blanket if you feel like it.

Clean Your Mirrors

Mirrors are great if you are interested in making a room look bigger, but they can quickly get really dirty. To prevent that from happening, keep your mirrors clean. Whenever you need to wipe a mirror clean, getting your hands on rubbing alcohol and clean cloth should be more than enough to get the job done.

Change Your Air Freshener

Like every other thing in your home, air fresheners can become old and less effective over time. If you want to make your home appear fresher, just buy a brand new air freshener. Try to find one that you like and which will keep on working for a long while.

Change Your Flooring

Like any other part of the house, your floors need to be upgraded from time to time. To do that, you can add a few area rugs or install new flooring in the kitchen. By doing that, you can instantly freshen up the look of any room.

Clean the Outside of Your House

What your house looks like from the outside is really important. If you were to invite anyone to come over, that is going to be their first impression of your house. Consequently, you should remove any dead leaves and branches from the lawn, trim the bushes, and keep the garage door nice and clean.

Making Your House Look Fresh Does Not Have To Be Expensive!

As you can see, making your house look good can be really budget-friendly. There are many things that you can do, ranging from cleaning your kitchen appliances to replacing your light bulbs and freshening up your furniture.

If you do not know where to start, make a to-do list of things that you would like to do and set priorities. For instance, if the floor in your living room looks extremely worn and old, consider making installing new flooring your top priority.

Once you make the effort to plan everything out, you should be able to make your house look trendy and fresh in no time!

 

Some of the Most Common Plumbing Emergencies

Some of the Most Common Plumbing Emergencies

As a smart homeowner, you need to know about some of the most common plumbing breakdowns that create emergencies around the house. It will help you be mentally and technically prepared to face the situation and not panic if you suspect a particular plumbing issue.

Let us look at the most common ones:

            1.   Faucet Leaks

The dripping sound of the faucet can be irritating and can take away your sleep. Faucet leaks are the most common plumbing problems, especially once the plumbing system or the fixtures age. Though they may not seem like an emergency at first, however, a leaky faucet can waste gallons of precious water as well as damage your home.

            2.   A Clogged Sink or Shower Drain

Clogged drains in the bathroom or kitchen can be distressing when the water collects or floods the rooms. It can be a big emergency for the family. As soon as you notice the water is draining slowly, take it as a warning sign not to be ignored if clogged drains are to be avoided by all means.

            3.   Clogged Toilets

Toilet clogs can create serious issues around the homes and are again a very common problem. Since the toilet fixtures are used more than the other plumbing fixtures, they often wear out. You can handle minor clogs with a plunger but if the problem recurs often, or refuses to settle, call for professional help.

            4.   Water Heater Issues

Another problem that comes up often is the shock of cold water when you turn on the shower expecting hot water. The problem can occur mainly due to some electrical fault, heater issue, or cracks or pipe burst. You will need to get in touch with your utility company at the earliest and resolve the hot water issue.

Water heater leak is another most common plumbing emergency that occurs, especially after years of use. The drips from the heater or the pipe joints can be seen as a puddle below the leaking point on the pipe. The water heater leaks, apart from creating a messy and wet floor, also unnecessarily increase your water bills due to the wasted water. So before the problem increases, it is smart to get the same inspected and repaired. It may range from replacing a valve, pipe to the entire heater.

            5.   Frozen or Burst Pipes

Frozen pipes are very frequent problems during winter. If your water supply stops suddenly during winters, the issue likely is that of frozen pipes. You will need to locate the section and try to resolve it by applying a hot towel or with the help of the hairdryer. You must remember that you do not use any flame for heating the frozen section since the pipes can burst. Pipes can also develop cracks or burst due to when the water expands or freezes rapidly. A burst pipe is a plumbing emergency that needs to be handled immediately by a denver plumbing contractor.

            6.   Faulty Toilet Flush

The valve of the flush button can stop functioning, creating constant running water in your toilet. It can waste a large amount of water as well as increase your water bills manifold. It ]needs to be inspected and repaired soon, to stop the dripping noise and the water wastage.

            7.   Washing Machine Hose Leaks

It is again a common problem that can arise at any time as the washing machine hose tends to crack or develop leaks over the years. You should inspect it for mold and dust too. 

            8.   Garbage Disposal Block

The device helps to keep the kitchen sink unclogged. However, it can get clogged and stop functioning and will need to be repaired asap.

            9.   Sewer System Malfunctioning

Sewer malfunctioning can be quite a nightmare as the system can throw the sewer back into the home and will need to be repaired immediately to stop your home from turning into a garbage dump.

            10.   Gas Pipe Leak

This also is a common household problem that needs immediate attention as it can be very dangerous if not resolved at the earliest. You should call for professional help without losing any time and get the gas pipe repaired.

 

When Should You Replace Garage Door Springs?

 

Having a garage is ever so convenient! You’ve got a place to keep your car secure and have great storage space. If you’re into repairs and crafts, you probably spend there a lot of time. To some people, their garage is like their own kingdom.

But what if the gates to the kingdom stop guarding it as well as they used to? Most likely, the culprit is easy to detect, and it all comes down to a set of garage door springs. It’s a quiet hero of the whole garage door system, and if this part malfunctions, the best solution is to replace it. This article will give you answers regarding all things related to garage door springs. If you want to learn more, keep on reading!

Types of Garage Door Springs

Let’s start with the basics. Your garage is equipped with one of the following types of garage door spring systems:

  • A torsion spring system uses one or two tightly wired springs, depending on the garage door size. The springs are placed on a steel shaft and run parallel to the door, serving as a counterbalance. It’s an option that’s generally considered to be safe and reliable.
  • An extension spring system is made of two springs that are mounted on either side of the garage door track. When the garage door goes up or down, a mechanism of cables and pulleys extends and contracts them. Experts from A1 Garage point out that while this system is cheaper and easier to install, it’s less reliable and doesn’t last that long.

How Long Do Garage Door Springs Last?

Once again, it all comes down to the type of springs. Typically, extension springs have a life expectancy of 4 to 10 years or between 5,000 to 15,000 up-and-down cycles. Torsion springs are more durable, with the expected lifespan of 7 to 14 years or between 10,000 and 20,000 cycles.

Replacement: When and Why?

Now you know how durable each system is. Mechanical parts, such as garage door springs, undergo the wear and tear process, and there’s nothing you can do to stop it. At some point, you’ll have to replace them; otherwise, the excessive tension might be too much, and the springs will break. As a result, the door may come crashing down and seriously injure whoever will be underneath.

There’s a couple of factors that can indicate your garage door springs might be having some issues, and their lifespan might be coming to an end. These include:

  • Imbalanced springs – this one is easier to detect than to correct. Your springs are likely out of balance when you notice your garage door is crooked, closes way too fast, and doesn’t open as smoothly as it used to. What’s more, your garage door may open and close on its own.
  • Excessive noise – if your linear garage door opener starts making a sound while opening or closing doors, chances are the springs are beginning to wear down.
  • Rust – if you see rust on the springs, it’s time to replace them. If you leave them as they are, they could potentially break at any time.

Garage Door Springs Replacement Cost

Again, the cost depends on the type of your garage door springs. Obviously, if you decide to do it by yourself, you’ll have to pay for the springs and any additional tools that can make your task easier. However, it’s a dangerous task, and it would be best if you considered hiring a professional to do it for you.

That being said, a professional replacement cost will vary from $120 for a single extension to $350 for a double torsion. Keep in mind that experts advise replacing both springs, even if only one is broken or damaged. This way is more cost-efficient, and the garage door is more balanced.

How Much Time Will It Take?

Garage door springs have a relatively long lifespan, compared with the time needed for them to be replaced. An expert should be able to do it within 30 minutes to 1 hour. If you want to replace them on your own, keep in mind it can take you more time, especially if you’ve never done this before, and you’re not familiar with all the tools needed to get the task done.

The Bottom Line

Just like any part of your house, your garage door needs to be properly maintained in order to serve its function. In case you notice any wear and tear, or you suspect that the springs’ lifespan might be nearing an end, consider replacing the springs before they break. If they’re broken already, don’t wait! If you’re not comfortable with doing the repairs yourself, hire a professional. A team of garage door experts will have the experience, skills, and tools to do the job safely.

 

Top 5 Causes of Roof Damage

Top 5 Causes of Roof Damage

 

When it comes to protecting the structure of your house, proactive roof inspections and maintenance should be high on your priority list. Nobody likes having to place drip buckets around the house every time it rains. This isn’t just extremely annoying, but it also indicates a larger issue that’s threatening the investment you and your family have made in your home.

Your roof will spend its entire working life outdoors, where it’s subject to a variety of weather conditions, pests, and the damage they can create as well as plain ol’ aging. There are no invincible roof shingles, although some seem to be pretty close. Sooner or later, you will have to make some repairs and replacements if you want your roof to keep doing the job it was designed to do. No matter if your roof is two years old or twenty, it helps to know the main causes of damage.

Aging Shingles

One of the most common reasons why you may be having trouble with your roof is that it’s simply past its prime. After years of exposure to the elements, your shingles will begin to lose their protective granules, which leads to further decay. They become entry points for water.

Check your roof regularly for curling and clawing shingles. This is a sign of an aging roof and damage from heat. The shingles will become rigid, can easily break, and they’re susceptible to wind uplift. Buckling shingles, which look like waved distortions running vertically up the roof slope, can also be easily torn off by the wind and are vulnerable to ice damage. The most common causes of buckling shingles are roof age and improperly installed underlayment, which brings us to our next point.

Poor Installation

Many homeowners feel like they can take care of their roof repairs by themselves. They think it’s not that complicated, and they’re perfectly capable of climbing up there and hammering down some missing shingles or patching up a small leak.

One of the most common mistakes with DIY repairs is failing to properly fasten the shingles, which makes them more likely to fly off the roof even when the wind isn’t that strong. Another frequent one is not securing the gutters correctly, which causes them to sag so they can longer provide adequate drainage.

It’s very important to have professional roofers do a full inspection because you might be missing issues that will cause significant damage further down the line.

The Flashing Has Cracked

Flashing refers to the thin pieces of metal placed under the shingles and on the joints of the roof to keep water from seeping in. The flashing can be concealed or exposed. Exposed flashing looks like long runs of sheet metal, while concealed flashing will have a rubberized coating. To seal the flashing together, roofers will usually use tar, which can corrode with time causing cracks.

To fix cracked flashing, they will lift any shingles out of the way, pry up the nails that secure it, and remove that segment. After this, they will replace it with a new segment following the pattern of the previous one, fasten it with nails and apply roofing sealant to the nails heads.

Extreme Weather Conditions

Sun exposure, high humidity, heavy rain, snow, and ice can gradually damage your roof. Let’s take thunderstorms as a first example since they can happen almost anywhere. The wind and rain from a thunderstorm will have a one-two punch effect on your roof. The wind will damage and lift the shingles, letting the rain go through. The best defense, in this case, is to keep up with roof maintenance and to check for any damage after every storm.

In the winter months, we also have to deal with snow and ice. Make sure you clean your gutters of any leaves or twigs at the end of autumn, so the snow has somewhere to go and doesn’t just sit on your roof. Otherwise, it will start to melt, and water will seep under the shingles and leak into the house. You also want to watch out for ice dams that can weigh thousands of pounds and can damage or collapse your roof. Moreover, ice dams can slide down the roof and crash into anything below it, such as your car.

If you live in a coastal area, you may have to deal with hurricanes that can cause a lot of destruction to your roof. The strong wind can rip off the shingles, and the rainwater will make your home more vulnerable to leaks, mold, or rot.

Pests

Most roofs are designed to handle years of wear and tear, but it’s often these small pests that make their way inside, which cause the most damage. Especially during the winter months, they will look for shelter in warm places, so they’ll find or create weak spots in your roof.

Ants and termites can go pretty much anywhere they want. Termites will target moldy areas or rotting wood and start developing their colonies while they are slowly weakening the structure of your roof. Carpenter ants, much like termites, will damage the wood structure while fire ants are known to chew through your insulation and electrical wiring.

Critters like mice and rats will squeeze through any crevices that will allow them to get into your attic, and they’ll chew through the substances that hold the roof together, chew through the wood, through your plumbing and electrical wires. Those adorable little squirrels are excellent climbers and leapers with very strong claws and teeth that they’ll use to make holes through your shingles and then have their way with your vent pipes and cables.

We can’t finish this list without mentioning those pesky birds. Birds can cause extensive damage to virtually any type of roof. They have very acidic dropping that will deteriorate roofing materials, especially if they’re sealed with tar. In fact, the life expectancy of your roof can be cut in half just from these bird droppings.

And if that wasn’t enough, our feathered friends like to build their nests in gutters and drains, which clogs the drainage system causing water to seep under the roof and into the walls.

 

5 Essential Things to Do When Moving into a New Home

5 Essential Things to Do When Moving into a New Home

 

Have you recently bought a house and you’re thinking about the millions of things you have to do? Your list is probably blowing up, and you don’t even know where to start. So, what are the first things that you need to do whenever you move into a new house?

Depending on what project it is, there might be more or fewer things to do. We’re not going to talk about repairing any damages to your house; it’s more like those things that everybody should do whenever they buy a new home. Packing and unpacking is not the only major thing to do, getting connected with your new home, learning how it works, and prioritizing what tasks need to be done first is another essential role of a homeowner.

You have a lot on happening already, so you’ll probably need help with organizing everything. To make things easier, here are a few ideas you might use when moving into a new home. Of course, moving requires a lot of effort to be done, but if you take your time and relax, soon enough, you’ll be sitting back and celebrate your new home.

1.      Do a Walk Around the House

What better time is it to do a walk-through of your new home than when it’s empty? So, make sure that you check if it needs any repairs, everything that you paid for does not miss, and that everything works right. Check the fixtures, the lights, the outlets, etc. Before unpacking everything and unloading the truck, set up a plan. Take a look into the living room, the kitchen area, and the bedrooms. Decide how you’ll want your furniture to be placed and make sure that you don’t overcrowd. An open space area gives your home a whole different aspect, and you’ll have more room for yourself.

Also, make sure that there aren’t any problems against the sale contract. If the previous owner decided to sell the house, including the kitchen furniture, and you were surprised not to find it there, call your real estate agent and see what could be done. Other issues that are not covered in the contract will be 100% your responsibility.

2.      Call for a Moving Company

When moving into a new home, the whole moving process might get stressful along the way. With all the furniture and personal things that need transport, you already feel overwhelmed. Have you considered yet scheduling the move? Calling for a moving company will handle every detail of your relocation, including packing, unpacking, planning, and storage.

Would you like to have someone to take care of the process from the beginning until the end? An experienced moving company will carefully plan and perform transports of any size. Be prepared to go when movers arrive, and don’t forget to place the small boxes in your car. You can carry in your vehicle things like kitchen furnishings, bedroom sheets, plants, etc. Planning your move by calling a moving company will help you set everything up according to the plan.

3.      Apply a Fresh Coat of Paint

To most people, it is reasonable that it’s essential to paint your home after you bought it. Although painting can be so messy, and you often need a lot of space to do it, you have to determine what you’re painting. If it’s just the walls, the trims, or even the ceiling, it is so much easier to do it without furniture in. You don’t have to be as careful; you can be as messy as you want to. So, do it right away, pretty much as soon as you get the keys in your hand.

Painting can also be such a pain for most people. Some do enjoy it, but when it comes to painting the entire house, at some point, everyone is like “I am sick of it, I don’t want to deal with it anymore.” So, do it right away, you’ll be so much happier when everything is done and the big part of moving, such as painting, is out of the way.

And on top of that, fresh paint can transform the entire house. After finishing the painting, everything looks so fresh and clean. Of course, you get to choose the color that you most like, the goal is to add a fresh coat of paint. Also, if the house that you moved in has a little bit of an odd smell, or maybe the old owners were smokers, fresh paint also helps with that.

4.      Clean the House

Start cleaning the entire house, and that includes the floor, windows, kitchen, bathroom, the bedrooms, and so on. Depending on how big your home is, it won’t be done in two hours; it can take a couple of days to clean the entire place. If you’re “lucky,” and the old owners didn’t clean the house for whatever reason, it’s essential to do it. Think about that strangers were living in that house, is their dirt, you don’t want to live in it. Get a sponge and clean the entire house, especially if you suffer from allergies.

Even if the sellers cleaned the house before, you don’t know how well they cleaned it. Even if it looks clean, unfortunately, bacteria can’t be seen, so just be on the safe side and clean everything before you settle in. Also, even if the sellers cleaned the entire house, now it’s twice as clean, so you can sleep much better knowing that you live in a clean and healthy environment.

5.      Set Up Candles and Air Fresheners

Put up some air fresheners or scented candles. If you just moved into a new house that has been owned by other people and the house still smells weird, use candles with your favorite scent to make it feel like home. The house will take some time to start carrying your smell, but in the meantime, use scented candles and air fresheners to get to the point.

So, these are some of the essential things you need to do when moving into a new home. Hopefully, it will help in any way and don’t forget, the sooner you’ll take care of the important stuff, it will start to feel like home.

 

How to Spot if Roof Damage Needs Attention

 

A roof protects your home. It is also built to protect you and your family from outside elements, such as wind, rain, and hail. However, some homeowners do not pay attention to their home’s roofs. Paying close attention to your roof will help you spot and prevent roof damage that might lead to expensive repairs in the future. Fortunately, it is easy to spot if roof damage needs attention.

Here is how to spot if roof damage needs attention:

Sagging and Water Stains

If your roof is leaking, some sections of your ceiling become discolored and start dipping. You will also see water stains on the walls. To prevent water damage, locate the source of the leak, and fix the leak. Additionally, signs of sagging mean the deck joist is losing its strength. If you notice sagging and water stains, your roof needs attention.

Granules in Eaves Trough

Some people ignore granules in eaves trough because it seems very normal and common. However, this is a serious concern, especially if you see granules of asphalt flow down with water. However, this only happens if you have asphalt shingles roof. As shingles age, they shed their granules, compromising the roof’s protection.

Missing or Damaged Shingles

Some people have installed asphalt shingled roofs. Many people install this type of roofing material because it is cheap, matches any home style, and comes in a variety of colors. Unfortunately, strong wind and hailstorms can blow off or damage asphalt shingles. If you notice missing or damaged shingles, you need urgent roof repair.

Algae Growth

Exposing moisture to the sun leads to algae growth. To stop algae growth, make sure your roof drains extra water off the roof. If your roof retains moisture, you will see a small pond on the roof. This can lead to water leaks. A leaking roof causes moisture to build up around the areas, where the water stands. This gives algae enough nutrients to grow.

Leaking Roof

Damage shingles, clogged eaves trough, and missing nails and fasteners are some of the things that can cause leaks on the roof. However, some people ignore small leaks in their roofs. Do not ignore them because they can lead to big problems. If your roof is leaking, it might mean you have waited for a long time to fix the problem.

Clogged Drains

Water should flow freely on the roof. However, dirt built up, tree pollen, and leaves can clog the drains. Clogged drains can cause major damages to the roof, especially during strong winds, heavy rain, and snow. Regular roof maintenance will help you remove the debris that clogs your drains, which helps prevent roof damage.

Mildew and Mildew

Mold and mildew are two big threats to any home. Mold is especially dangerous to the health of the people living in your home. As the mold spreads, it weakens the roof from the inside of your home. This slowly damages your roof because mold prospers in these conditions.

You now know how to spot if roof damage needs attention. Do not repair your roof if you do not have the necessary skills, experience, and tools. Hire a good roofing contractor to inspect your roof and do the necessary roof repairs.

 

 

Temperature & Humidity vs. Paint

 

Rain and wind are not the only environmental factors that affect ideal painting conditions. Homeowners, contractors and handymen must contend with different humidity and temperature levels, too, during exterior projects. Painting under the right conditions can make the difference between a job well done and a redo. Read on to learn about the ideal circumstances for painting to avoid any unwanted issues.

 How Temperature Affects Drying

Why does temperature matter? When it comes to painting a house, temperature is a huge factor in the way a fresh coat of paint will dry. Drying paint in temperatures that are too low or high could result in cracking and peeling. For example, extremely low temperatures can prevent fresh coats of paint from correctly drying because moisture within the formulation can actually freeze solid before it dries completely. On the other end of the spectrum, extremely hot temperatures can evaporate the moisture from within the paint faster than normal. This can cause the top layer to skin over before the layers underneath dry, which can produce cracking, blisters and other imperfections.

There are some rules of thumb to follow when it comes to different types of paint. Temperatures above 45 degrees Fahrenheit are recommended when using solvent or oil-based paints. Latex and acrylic paints dry much better in temperatures that exceed 50 degrees Fahrenheit. If temperatures dip, dew can form on surfaces and cause the water in the paint to evaporate too slowly. Some paints are now formulated to dry at lower temperatures, such as 35 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s vital to follow the instructions on paint containers, since each paint formula is designed to be used within specific temperature and humidity parameters.

How Humidity Affects Drying

When high-humidity conditions are combined with low temperatures, the protective qualities of paint may be compromised. Condensation can occur on the paint’s surface, which creates issues with the paint’s drying and adhesion. In some cases, high humidity can cause unsightly streaks or surfactant leaching, which is a brown or white discoloration on the top layer of the paint. Additionally, excess moisture in the air can be absorbed into wood surfaces and affect paint adhesion. This can result in bubbling or peeling paint.

Avoiding Problems

 Be sure to check the weather forecast before starting any outdoor painting project. It’s also a good idea to monitor the temperature and humidity levels during painting projects. The best time to paint, depending on geography, would likely be early summer or fall. These seasons usually offer the best weather conditions, with minimal rain and fluctuations in temperature from day to night. This can ensure that the paint adheres smoothly and has a chance to dry and cure properly. Summer also tends to be the perfect time for painting since it is typically dry and warm. Aim to paint when you have a clear, low humidity day with the ideal temperatures falling around 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

Sticking to these guidelines can help you end up with a flawless finish. Before you get started on your next painting project, take a look at the accompanying infographic to review how temperature and humidity can affect a fresh coat of paint.

 

How to Look After Your Concrete Driveway: 5 Top Tips

 

As a homeowner, being proud of both the interior and exterior of your home is important. When guests pull up outside your property, the last thing you want is for them to get the wrong impression. If you have a concrete driveway, keeping it well maintained should be your top priority, so to make sure the surface looks its best and stands the test of time, here are five top tips you can use.

How to Look After Your Concrete Driveway

Regular Cleaning

 

To keep your concrete driveway gleaming, it’s important that you factor in time to clean it. If left untouched for a long time, concrete can begin to look really dirty, which can set a bad tone for those coming to visit your property. Giving your driveway the attention and care it needs is important, so using a pressure washer can be a great way to keep it clean.

Seal the Surface

 

No matter how great your driveway sealer is, it will ultimately wear out over time, regardless of how much money you shell out. The main purpose of a driveway sealer is to stop water from getting into the porous surface, as this can cause major damage. It can also help protect the driveway surface from UV light degradation and spillages, so make sure that you reseal the surface every 3-5 years.

Avoid Using Chemicals

 

When it comes to driveway maintenance, there are some harsh chemicals that are best to avoid, such as deicer. Deicers are known to eat into the surface which results in gradual deterioration. If your driveway becomes icy or slippery, it’s best to use sand which will provide traction. Sand can also be easily brushed to one side or swept away once the summer months draw in. If you have any grassy areas at the front of your property, chemical products will only cause damage in the long run.

Avoid Spillages

 

Another way to keep good care of your concrete driveway is by avoiding spills. Your car oil may be the root cause of a spillage or stain that can cause major damage to your driveway’s appearance. If you notice any spillage, make sure that it’s cleaned up quickly and appropriately by using a professional driveway cleaning solution.

Seek Professional Help

 

If you’ve lived in your property for many years and feel the damage done to your concrete driveway is irreversible, it may be time to hire a professional who can lay down a brand new one. Richfield Blacktop is a company you may want to consider using, as they specialize in concrete driveways, asphalt driveways, and commercial paving.

While concrete is known as the easiest surface to maintain when compared to other driveway types, that’s not to say there aren’t measures that can be taken to make sure it looks its best. If you have noticed any changes to your driveway, there are lots of tips that you can take on board, but you may also want to seek out a professional to help.

 

The Homeowner’s Guide to Shed Insurance

shed plans

 

With the average price for materials ranging between $17-$24sqft, it can cost homeowners about $2,500 to build a typical 10’x12′ DIY shed. Depending on the size, style, siding, roofing, and extra features such as plumbing, electrical, overhead doors, or solar panels, the cost can soar upwards of $10,000 or more. Then, if you consider what’s being stored inside of your shed? The total value of the structure and its contents can undoubtedly raise a few eyebrows and questions, especially when it comes to being vandalized or totally lost due to a natural disaster or fire.

There are several reasons why homeowners might have a shed on their property. In most cases, these structures are covered by their homeowner’s insurance policy; however, there are also cases where they are not. The biggest mistake that some homeowners make is failing to call their insurance company to see if the new shed and its contents will be covered under their current policy. This guide is designed to help the average homeowner understand how it works with some tips along the way, and without further ado, here’s everything you need to know about shed insurance.

 

What’s Other Structures Protection?

 

Whether you have a shed, detached garage, gazebo, chicken coop, fence, or in-ground swimming pool located on your property? In the world of insurance companies, this type of homeowner’s insurance policy is known as other structures protection. In general, the standard coverage is about 10% of your entire home’s insurance policy. For example, if your home is insured for $150,000? Under the other structures protection policy, your shed and other outbuildings would be insured for $15,000.

It’s essential to call your insurance company or read the fine print in your homeowner’s insurance policy to know what the number of your coverage limits are. The next thing you need to know is the value that your new shed brings to your home? If your new shed has an amount more than what your current coverage limits are, it’s a good idea to have your insurance agent raise and adjust your coverage limits to protect your investment.

 

What’s the Value of Your Shed?

 

DIY sheds generally include just the cost of materials to build it and perhaps a good shed plans from Shedplans.org to work from, but you still need to know what it’s worth before you talk to your insurance company about raising your rates. A simple way to get a rough estimate of your shed’s value is by taking the cost of materials and tripling it. Most professional contractors charge about two thirds above the cost of materials for their labor.

On the other hand, you can expect that most insurance companies will want proof of the structure’s existence and paperwork backing its value, especially if they’re going to write you a check to repair or replace your shed. In cases such as this, it’s always best to have a home appraisal conducted. You can easily find a professional with any appraisal management company. These experts are certified and licensed in their perspective states or countries to determine the value of a structure objectively, fairly, and without bias opinions.

 

Does a Homeowners Insurance Policy Cover the Shed Contents?

 

Most homeowner’s insurance policies will have a set amount of protection for personal property. This also includes the contents stored inside of your shed or other outbuildings. The amount of protection is typically determined by the amount of insurance outlined in your home’s insurance policy. While insurance companies cover certain items stored in outbuildings such as ATVs, lawnmowers, power equipment, garden tools, there may be a limit to what your insurance company is willing to fork over.

On the flip side of the coin, items subject to damage from moisture and humidity like clothing, photographs, and other personal effects, in most cases, wouldn’t be covered by your insurance company. Therefore, these types of personal items should be kept safe in your house to qualify as being insurable under your insurance policy’s protection for private property.

 

Are There Any Limits on Shed Insurance?

 

In the real world, although your shed and its contents are covered under your homeowner’s insurance policy, it’s wise to talk to your agent about your policy’s stated coverage limits. This allows you to make a few different decisions based on what best fits your needs.

For example, let’s say your shed’s finished value is $5,000, and you’re basically using it for storing lawn and garden tools and supplies with a riding lawnmower that’s valued on the lower end of the scale? In most cases, this will not affect the limits on your homeowner’s insurance policy, which also includes the other structures protection plan. Meaning, your current coverage rates, and limits will not be affected.

 

When Does a Shed Limit Apply?

 

When you have specific items stored in a shed or outbuilding, limits will apply. As an illustration, if you have a $10,000 side-by-side ATV in your shed and a natural disaster or fire occurs? There may be a limit of $2,500 on the entire contents of the shed, including your expensive toy. Other items where restrictions may apply include but are not limited to:

  • Motorcycles
  • Snowmobiles
  • Vehicles
  • ATVs
  • Guns & Hunting Bows
  • Woodworking equipment
  • Expensive power tools
  • Small farm machinery
  • Zero-Turn riding lawn mowers

Pro Tip: To protect expensive items that are stored in your shed, talk to your agent about additional coverage for these specific items. You may discover that it’s best to insure them separately as opposed to raising the coverage and rates on your homeowner’s insurance policy.

 

Is There Anything Else That I Should Know About Shed Insurance?

 

One key component to shed insurance for theft claims is to make sure that you have either a keyed lock or a paddle lock installed on the doors of your shed. Contrary to what you may believe, some insurance companies will not give you a dime if you don’t have a lock on your shed, and theft occurs.

Anytime that you have a question about what your homeowner’s insurance policy covers, contact them and get it to explain to you because the information you need to know is usually contained in the small print that every homeowner hates to read. And lastly, you can certainly benefit from building a new shed yourself, but make sure you are covered.

 

9 Common Furnace Problems (And How to Fix Them)

 

The cold weather can send you in frenzy, especially if your furnace system is acting up or has some hiccups. However, keep in mind that there are some common problems that you can fix solo, as opposed to calling the professionals to repair it.

Here are some common furnace problems you are bound to experience occasionally and how to fix them.

1.     No heat troubleshooting

If your furnace is not producing any heat then you could try some DIY things before calling in the experts. Some of them are:

  • Verifying that your thermostat setting is on heat
  • Checking your pilot light and gas valve, you can turn the gas valve to an ON position and relight your pilot light to see if they are both working
  • Reset the furnace motor, as chances are that it may be overloaded. Just press the reset button once if nothing happens then try again after 30 minutes
  • Also ensure that your furnace has power, by flipping its switch ON
  • You can also check if your fuse or breaker that powers the thermostat is ON and working and not blown. You can turn it ON if it is not and if it is blown just replace it

2.     Thermostat malfunctions

If your furnace thermostat is not working properly, you can try some home DIY tasks to get it running again. For instance, you could turn the power OFF and remove the cover before cleaning it with a soft brush or vacuum.

Also, check if there are corrosion signs before removing it with an electronic contact cleaner. You can then change its battery if this is the problem.

3.     Faulty pilot lights

If your furnace pilot lights keep going out, then there could be a couple of problems like a loose or faulty thermocouple. You can just tighten it if it is the issue. Another thing is that you pilot orifice may be clogged. You can try to clear this clog with a wire piece.

It could also mean that your settings are too low for the pilot flame. You can make the flame adjustment by turning its screw for a proper size, probably between 1.5-2 inches of flame with no yellow. You can consult your furnace manual for better adjustments.

In addition, remember to shut off the gas, switch or circuit breaker before starting this kind of inspection and fixing.

4.     Broken fans

You can check if your fan is actually broken by turning your heat OFF on your thermostat, then turn to Fan Only or Auto position. If your fan does not turn ON, then it is broken.

You can then check if your circuit breaker has tripped if not, then you will need to replace your broken furnace fan.

5.     Bad electrical connections

If your furnace does not have any power, check your breaker box for a blown fuse or a tripped breaker. For the blown fuse you can replace it but for the tripped breaker just turn it OFF and ON again. If both do not work then your connections might be faulty and you may need the services of a furnace technician like Advanpro Calgary, to fix it.

6.     Air flow problems

This problem often means that something is preventing the air from flowing within your furnace. So just check your furnace filter, it can be dirty or not installed properly. Put it in the correct position.

You can also check the vents ensure they are open, as closed vents can lead to unnecessary heat buildup within your furnace.

If the problem persists, try pressing the rest button. You can try resetting it again after 30 minutes if it does not get any better.

7.     Dirty or clogged air filter

In case you have a dirty or clogged air filter, just replace it. You can buy the same one in your furnace. Take a picture and ask the store owner to help you locate it.

Take note that most filters will have arrows showing the direction of airflow. These arrows should face your furnace duct work.

8.     Blower runs all the time

If your furnace gives you this problem, check your thermostat switch, if it is set to ON, then your blower will always be running. Change the setting to Auto, this way it turns itself ON and OFF as required when it reaches the set temperature.

If problem persists, call the furnace experts.

9.     Furnace age

Furnaces are built to last for long, but none can run forever. So maybe it might be time to replace it, especially if it has reached or passed its manufacturer warranty. So be informed and up-to-date with your system.

 

DIY: Plumbing Repair Tips For Homeowners

While many people dread DIY plumbing projects, a lot of the projects are actually easy and do not take a great deal of time. Here are some home plumbing repairs that you can do on your own with just a few basic tools.

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Garbage Disposal Repair

One of the most common plumbing repair jobs is fixing a garbage disposal. If yours is making a humming noise but not working properly, follow these steps. This is a fairly simple fix, but make sure that the unit is turned off before you start.

Step 1: Use a flashlight to see if there is any debris clogging the unit.

Step 2: Grab some needle nose pliers to remove as much of the obstruction as possible.

Step 3: Get underneath the sink and use an Allen wrench to turn on the disposal. To do so, all you should have to do is insert the wrench into the bottom of the unit and turn. Once the disposal is on, any remaining debris should be freed to the point that it either goes down the unit or you can pull it out with the pliers.

 

Toilet Repair

Most people have an issue with their toilet at one time or another. The easiest problem to fix is a toilet that does not stop running. You may be able to jiggle the handle a little bit to loosen the chain and keep water from running out of the tank. If that doesn’t work, you’ll probably need to change the flapper valve. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Shut off the water to the toilet. You should see a knob at the base of the unit. Then, flush the toilet so that the tank empties.

Step 2: Take off the tank lid and check the flapper at the bottom of the tank. This is the part that keeps water from entering the bowl. If it is cracked or worn, take it out and bring it with you to the hardware store to make sure you find the right replacement.

Step 3: Replace the old flapper with the new one. Before you do, however, check the valve seat to make sure there aren’t any rough edges. If there are, use an emery cloth to smooth them. This will help create a more watertight seal.

 

Leaking Showerhead

A leaking showerhead is not only annoying; it can also raise your water bill a great deal. Here’s how to fix a showerhead that is leaking at the base:

Step 1: Take a wrench and unscrew the showerhead from the wall.

Step 2: Wrap some plumber’s tape around the threads of the stem.

Step 3: Re-attach the showerhead and turn the water on. If you still notice a leak, take the head off again and add a little more tape. If this still doesn’t work, then you may either need to call a plumber or buy a new showerhead.


Faucet Repair

Today’s faucets are relatively easy to fix as long as you know some basic information. For this particular example we’re going to use a traditional faucet that has two handles — one for hot water and one for cold water.

Step 1: You will want to have a screwdriver handy as well as a small Allen wrench. Look at where the water is coming from and then turn off the water supply. You should see a shut-off valve underneath the sink. If you don’t see one, then you may have to close your home’s main water valve.

Step 2: Once the water is turned off, open the faucet to relieve pressure. Cover your drain hole with a strainer or a rag so that you don’t run the risk of losing any small parts.

Step 3: Unscrew each handle. You may first need to pry off the decorative cap on each side.

Step 4: Take your wrench and remove the nut on the hot and cold side. Remove the stem and set it aside, making a note of which one goes on the hot side and which goes with the cold side.

Step 5: You should then see an O-ring, which sits on top of a seat washer. The washer is probably the culprit causing the leak because it has worn out.

Step 6: Replace each seat washer. It’s the part that is held in place with a brass screw that is upside-down. Take the old ones with you to the hardware store to make sure you get the right replacements.

Step 7: Use plumber’s grease to coat the replacement seat washers and insert them into the sink. Re-assemble the handles and the leak should be fixed.

If you have any problems with any of these projects, call your local plumber.

 

Author Bio

Patricia Bonacorda is the President of Spartan Plumbing a plumbing and HVAC Company. For over 50 years, they have assisted apartment and multi family homes. Spartan Plumbing is a licensed, bonded and insured business that has provided professional plumbing, heating and air conditioning services throughout the DC Region.

The Average Cost of the Most Common Roof Repair Projects

Repairing your roof is a smart way to correct a problem before it gets out of hand, causing even more damage and expense. If caught early enough, there are quite a number of roof-damage issues that are fairly simple and cost-efficient to fix. Houselogic.com urges homeowners to be on the lookout for signs of roof damage and recommends a roof inspection once a year.

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When conducting this inspection on the inside of your home, you should ensure that the ceiling contains no dark spots, that the paint job is intact underneath roof overhangs, and that there is no dampness or water staining on pipes or fireplaces. If discovered, these problems can be corrected with reasonable expense. Since these figures are estimates and vary from location to location, housewyse.com recommends that homeowners obtain bids from several contractors in order to receive the very best value for their money.

Elizabeth Dunn, contributor at AngiesList.com, provides a list of specifics that helps to determine the cost of a roof repair job. Roof type, for instance, can prove a huge factor due to the roofing material, topography, and pitch. Asphalt is relatively inexpensive, whereas white sheet and tile shingles can cost up to 1,000 per square foot, so this price discrepancy will impact your overall repair cost. Dunn also addresses other factors, such as size of the job, water damage, and the adherence to state permits, all of which can greatly impact total repair costs. For example, if your state requires a specific procedure for conducting a roof repair, extra materials may be needed to ensure that the roof meets the standards outlined in the permit. Also, if you have extra navigational obstacles, such as a chimney or a skylight, the contractor may charge additional fees.

Indoor / Outdoor Roof-Related Issues and Costs:

Cost of Water Damage Repairs: Through the use of a clever calculating system, Housewyse.com reports some helpful costs of repair statistics and what actions are required to complete the repair. Again, since there are no set-in-stone prices for such repairs, we will “plug in” the state of Indiana to gather some statistics for the average cost. There is a direct labor expense, or the price of the actual work being performed, and this repair takes approximately three hours and around $220 to complete. The supply cost of items such as fasteners, seam tape, and top compound, will average around $25 per patch, setting the estimated cost of repair at $250.

Roof Gutter Repairs: According to Mike Long, roofing expert and contributor at AngiesList.com, homeowners should take a look at the condition of their gutters to ensure that there is no bending, leaking, overflowing, or rusting. If a problem is determined, Long reports that the repair cost averages approximately $200-$1,000 for a 2,000 square-foot home.

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Houselogic.com outlines some issues to look for when inspecting the exterior of the roof, such as bucking shingles and moss or lichen growth. The roofing blog at roofing-directory.com reports that homeowners should expect to pay around $1,500 for shingle repair since shingles are sold by the square, and each square runs between $100 to $300.

A roof shampoo is recommended for moss or lichen growth in order to prevent decay to your roof due to the decomposing action of these fungi. Brian Eckert with CostOwl.com reports that the cost of roof cleaning varies with service professional and location. For a 1,200 square-foot home, you will likely pay around $250-$500 for this service. The roof of a 2,500 square-foot home would probably cost between $375-$750 to clean. Keep in mind that variables such as height and roof size will certainly impact the overall cost.

As houselogic.com explains, a roof that is in good condition is definitely worth the time and money to repair, and you should also explore other options when considering the cost and scope of a roof-repair project. Many repairs are quick solutions that the homeowners can even fix themselves. Others are not so simple, but if the cause is weather-related, it’s a good idea to check with your insurance company to determine if such damage is covered under policy.

Finally, if a personal roof inspection leaves you with questions, you might consider gathering a professional inspection of your roof to ensure that all issues are adequately addressed. Houselogic.com explains that homeowners can either receive a free inspection through a participating company or can secure a professional roof inspector for around $175 through the National Roof Certification and Inspection Association. Keep in mind, however, that the key to successful roof repair is to adequately prevent and address issues as soon as possible to prevent further damage. In this way, you can work to extend the life of your roof, saving yourself much aggravation and expense.

Sources: http://www.angieslist.com/articles/5-factors-influence-price-roof-repair.htm
http://www.angieslist.com/articles/gutter-trouble-when-replace-instead-repair.htm
http://www.costowl.com/home-improvement/roof-cleaning-cost.html
http://www.roofing-directory.com/blog/2009/10/average-cost-of-a-shingle-repair-job/
http://www.houselogic.com/home-advice/roofing-gutters-siding/roofing-repair-or-replace/
http://www.homewyse.com/services/cost_to_repair_ceiling_water_damage.html

DIY- How to Repair a Broken or Missing Roof Shingle

Shingles cover the roofing substructure to help sloping roofs shed rain, snow, ice and hail while channeling water away so that standing pools of water will not weaken structural integrity or allow water to seep under shingles and leak from ceilings or down interior walls. Replacing an entire roof offers dangerous risks and exhausting work, but homeowners can replace damaged or missing shingles easily. Check roofs for leaks each fall and spring, replacing any shingles that have become cracked, curled-up, broken or missing in action from severe weather or high winds.

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Tools and Materials Needed to Replace Shingles

The right tools help to make roofing repair jobs go smoothly. The first requirement is a sturdy extension ladder, which handy homeowners should never leave unattended while making repairs. A complete list of tools and materials includes the following shingle-laying essentials:

  • Extension ladder
  • Claw hammer
  • Shingle ripper or hacksaw for wood shingles
  • Chisel
  • Pry bar
  • Roofing nails
  • Roofing cement
  • Utility knife
  • Replacement shingles

Shingles come in asphalt, wood, fiberglass, metal and ceramic materials, so determine the type and size of shingles to match roof composition.

Step-by-Step Guide to Shingle Replacement

Replacing one shingle requires loosening the damaged shingle and the shingles on the two rows immediately above it. Use a long knife to cut through cement in the middle of the shingle. The following steps will help homeowners make effective and safe shingle repairs:

  1. In addition to the cement, properly installed shingles have eight nails—four in the middle and four on the top. Use a pry bar to lift the damaged shingle carefully to loosen nails without damaging the surrounding shingles. Remove the nails.
  2. Repeat the process on the next level, and then remove pry up the damaged shingle to remove the top nails.
  3. Remove shingle, and if necessary, use it as a guide to size the replacement, which might need cutting to fit.
  4. Slide the new shingle into place with a coating of cement in the middle and a dab at each corner, which helps to hold it place.
  5. Attach four nails at the top and middle of the shingle to affix it permanently. Hammer nails gently in the replacement and surrounding shingles to stabilize the repair.
  6. Cover the tops of the nails with roofing cement to make the repair watertight. The shingles might need weights overnight to keep them flat.

Roof Shingle Repair Tips

Never risk safety for speed or convenience. If the weather threatens rain, snow, bitter cold or high winds, delay the repair project. Excess heat can also prove problematic if replacing several shingles because roof surfaces heat to extreme temperatures and working on the roof exposes workers to direct sunlight, so take temperatures into consideration and work in the mornings or evenings when it’s hot.

Position the ladder roughly one-fourth of the roof’s height away from the house to create a safe and secure angle for support. The top of the ladder should extend several feet above the roof line. Get someone to watch the ladder when ascending or descending to prevent mishaps. Other tips include the following advice:

  • Make repairs only when roofs are completely dry. Slippery roofs cause falls.
  • Rubber-soled or antislip shoes help to limit risks. Stay aware of any overhead power lines, roofing structures and other navigation obstacles.
  • If unable to find matching shingles, nonmatching shingles will work, especially aluminum or copper.
  • Always use safety ropes and secure ladders with proper anchoring techniques.
  • Using a utility knife to round the back corners of replacement shingles makes it easier to slide them in place.
  • Improper installations and defective flashings around chimneys account for over 90 percent of all roof leaks, so inspect flashings when checking for damaged shingles.
  • Multiple leaks, significant damage or installing ceramic tiles might need the expertise of professional roofers. If repairs fail to control leaking ceilings, then hire a licensed roofer.

When to Replace Roofs

Roofs with severe damage need professional attention because several complications develop. Housing codes allow stacking up to three layers of shingles, but after reaching the limit, homeowners must remove old shingles, which presents the challenges of removing old tiles and disposing of them. Laying an entire roof involves flashing problems, waterproofing, dealing with uneven surfaces, following overlapping patterns to channel water off the roof and getting the necessary building permits.

Homeowners and landlords might want to consider replacing roofs with more than 20-percent damage to protect their property from the devastating effects of leaks. Timely repairs help to limit deterioration and reduce the need for costly repairs and replacements. Following safety guidelines and planning repair jobs could save lots of headaches, and getting a friend to help offers protection from many kinds of emergencies that might occur.

DIY – How to Fix a Leaking Faucet

In addition to being aggravating in general, leaking faucets make water bills go through the roof. With that in mind, it’s smart to take care of the problem right away. There are many places where a faucet can leak, and a leak at the handle can be especially perplexing. Despite turning the handle as far as possible, a small, steady trickle of water may drip out into the sink. When the faucet is on, the leak may turn into a small stream that gets onto counters and causes a mess. The good news is that repairing a faucet that’s leaking at its handle is fairly simple. Just follow the directions below.

What You’ll Need
Until you take apart the handle, you won’t be able to tell what is specifically causing the leak. Fortunately, it’s probably just one of two possible things: A damaged handle cartridge or a corroded, cracked O-ring. Neither part is especially expensive, so you might as well replace them both while you’re at it. The local big-box home improvement store is sure to have both pieces, and you can probably find them at smaller hardware stores as well.

In addition to buying O-rings and a handle cartridge, you will need the following tools:

  • Wire brush
  • Mini screwdriver
  • Allen wrench set
  • Flathead screwdriver
  • Sharp knife
  • Wrench
  • Non-toxic, heatproof plumber’s grease
  • Calcium solvent

 

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1) Turn Off the Water
Any time you work on a sink, the first step is to turn off the water. The last thing you need is to be sprayed in the face after pulling off the handle.

  1. Look beneath the sink. There should be two valves located at the back or side of the cabinet.
  2. Turn each valve all the way to the left. You may have to use a wrench. Don’t use excessive force because it could damage the valve and force you to run out and buy a new one.
  3. Close or cover the drain to keep screws and other hardware from dropping in and getting lost.

2) Remove the Handle
The only way to repair a leaking faucet handle is by removing it. Follow these steps to do so.

  1. Take a minute to examine the handle and faucet. The specific steps that you’ll need to take will depend on how it is designed.
  2. If you have an older faucet, you should be able to simply twist off the handle or handles. Turn the handle as you would when turning it on. When it reaches what seems to be the farthest point, apply a little extra pressure and keep turning. It should push past that point. From there, keep turning it until it twists off completely.
  3. To remove the handle on a newer faucet, look for the brand logo near its base. You should be able to pry it off with a flathead screwdriver. Once it’s removed, you will see a tiny hole. Insert the Allen wrench or mini screwdriver into the hole and twist it to the left. At this point, you should be able to remove the handle.

3) Fix the Handle
Now that you’ve removed the handle, you can really get down to business. Keep in mind that the following steps are simply a guide. The assembly of your faucet and handle may differ slightly. You might want to snap photos as you work so that you can put it all together again easily.

  1. If you have a newer faucet, you will see a shroud. Twist it to the left to remove it.
  2. You should now see a small adapter that’s secured by a screw. Using a wrench to hold the assembly in place, remove the screw. The adapter should pull off with ease.
  3. Remove the small plastic cover that you’ll see after removing the adapter.
  4. There will be another, larger plastic cover. To remove it, twist it to the left with a wrench.
  5. To remove the small clip, just pry it off with a flathead screwdriver.
  6. Using the wrench, pull up on the stem of the faucet. This will allow you to access the spacer, which you should remove. At this point, you should be able to pull the stem off all the way.
  7. Use a wire brush and calcium solvent to remove any buildup. If it’s not removed, it could keep causing problems in the future.
  8. Remove the O-ring or O-rings and replace them with the new ones.
  9. Put in the new handle cartridge.

4) Rebuild the Faucet Handle
To rebuild the faucet handle, just follow the same steps you did before but do them in reverse. This is where the photos you took earlier will come in handy. Take your time while rebuilding the handle. Securely fasten all of the hardware and wipe everything down to ensure that it is dry and free of debris.

5) Test the Faucet
After everything is in place, turn the water back on by turning the valves beneath the sink. Look closely for signs of a leak. Turn the handle or handles and check to see if water leaks from them when the water is on. If not, you are good to go.