Category: Home Maintenance

Given how important indoor air quality is, it isn’t discussed enough by homeowners. Ensuring that you have clean air in your home should be a priority for a number of reasons. The most obvious, and most important, is that it can have serious consequences for your health and wellness if you’re exposed to air pollution on a regular basis. Even limited exposure is enough to cause health problems, especially for anyone who suffers from asthma or allergies. Anyone with health conditions, especially if they’re respiratory, should be doubly cautious about their indoor air quality. If you want to create a healthier environment, read on to learn more about how you can protect the quality of the air in your home.

Why is air quality important?

You might be wondering why air quality is so important or what the effects of poor indoor air quality can be. While there isn’t much you can do to improve the quality of the air outside, it’s essential that you maintain clean and breathable air at home. Breathing in polluted air has been linked to a number of negative side effects, ranging from uncomfortable to potentially fatal. Some symptoms include nausea, headaches, sore throat, and difficulty breathing. Air pollution can also trigger allergy and asthma attacks.

Poor indoor air quality is also linked to more serious illnesses, including lung cancer, and it can cause complications for those already dealing with respiratory illnesses or heart problems. Given that heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, it’s important to make sure you aren’t worsening your health by breathing in dirty air.

Common household irritants include pollution, unpleasant odors, pollen, mold, mildew, and pesticides. There are a number of ways homeowners can reduce the presence of contaminants like these, though it may require making an investment in your appliances and home systems.

What can you do to improve your indoor air quality?

Your HVAC system is often your first line of defense against air pollution. Keep a lookout for any indications that your HVAC is in poor condition and for signs that indicate you need a new thermostat. If you do need a technician to inspect or repair your HVAC, reach out for professional help as soon as you notice the issue. Letting problems worsen until they cause a breakdown can be both dangerous and incredibly expensive.

It’s also essential that you maintain your HVAC system properly. Most systems need to have the filter changed every 90 days and require an inspection at least once annually. If you notice your system isn’t operating at peak efficiency and it’s over 10 years old, it may be time to replace it entirely. If your HVAC isn’t operating at peak efficiency, your home is likely to have inadequate air filtration.

A true HEPA air purifier is also a great idea for anyone who wants cleaner air. When looking for an air purifier, make sure the purifier you buy is adequate to cover the number of square feet in the room where you place it. You can even purchase an air purifier with a display that shows air quality levels and that is capable of adjusting fan speed in real time.

Most of us know that clean air is important, but many people aren’t aware of the serious side effects that go along with living in a space with poor indoor air quality. Taking steps to keep the air in your home breathable is necessary if you want to keep everyone in your household safe. Your HVAC system can filter out a lot of pollutants, but only if it’s fully operational and well-maintained. If you want some extra protection, look for an air purifier for rooms where you spend the most time. It can take some work to improve your air quality, but it’s worth the investment if you want to create a healthier home.

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused people to change their lifestyles. In fact, more people than ever are moving, working remotely, and placing more value on their homes. If you and your family are considering a move or have recently become new homeowners, it’s a good idea to take a step back to be sure your new home is safe and ready to go before moving in. For a few things that you’ll want to do or check on before you move in, read on.

Make sure your new home is safe.

If your home doesn’t have a new roof, it’s important to call a roofing professional to be sure your roof is in good condition. It’s always a good idea to have a professional look at your roof. This is because something as simple as a missing shingle can lead to leaks, water stains, mildew, and serious issues beyond the initial storm damage. Replacing small issues with new shingles can make a huge difference in your roof’s condition in the long run.

When doing a once-over to be sure your home is safe, don’t forget about your HVAC systems. To ensure the best air quality possible, you’ll want to contact an HVAC professional to make repairs and upgrades. HVAC pros can also come out on a regular basis to make sure your HVAC systems are well-maintained. This will save you money and make your home more energy-efficient, too.

Give your new home and yard a good cleaning.

Part of making sure your home is safe means taking an inventory of any debris in the home or yard. If you’re moving into an older home, for example, it’s possible that there are items in the yard or wooded area around the property that you’ll want to dispose of. Taking care of scraps junk removal before moving in is a great way to help keep you and your family safe.

Before moving into your new house, take a walk around the property, including the basement and attic. You’ll be able to spot potential problems, tripping hazards, and more. In assessing your home before moving your personal belongings in, you’ll have a better chance to get a full picture of the space and any possible problems as well.

Make use of public storage.

In a time when more people are moving than ever, making great use of public storage during a move is becoming a must-do. If you’re staging a home or want more time for your new house’s first deep clean, the convenience of knowing your belongings are safe in storage will give you more options throughout your move. Instead of navigating around clutter, you’ll be able to move freely in your new and old homes.

Moving can be stressful, which is why taking breaks and engaging in self-care during a move is important. While it can be tempting to want to rush into your new house as quickly as possible, being more intentional about the way you move could add up to peace of mind. Be sure you don’t neglect self-care needs during your move. In taking care of yourself and your family, your move will go smoother.

In the end, whether you check off every item on your own checklist or save minor damage and little problems for later, taking the time to address serious issues before you move in is the best way to give yourself peace of mind as you complete your move. Making a commitment to addressing concerns in a timely manner and staying on top of regular maintenance is a great way to know you’ll enjoy your home for years. Congratulations on your move. May you have a fantastic next chapter.

There are few systems more integral to keeping your home comfortable than your HVAC system. However, you’ll need to make sure you maintain it well if you want it to operate at peak efficiency. Your thermostat is an essential part of your HVAC system, and it can be just as vulnerable to malfunctions and breakdowns as any other appliance in your home. Many people don’t know how to tell when their thermostat isn’t working, or they can’t recognize the red flags that might indicate something is wrong. Keep reading to learn more about how to know if you need a new thermostat for your home.

How can you tell if you need a new thermostat?

If you’re a first-time homeowner or new to HVAC system maintenance, you may not know how to tell if you need a new thermostat for your home. There are several warning signs you should keep an eye out for, some of which may be more noticeable than others. One obvious sign that something is wrong is if your thermostat won’t turn on or off. Your thermostat is responsible for communicating with your HVAC unit, so if that connection has been disrupted, you may notice that you won’t be able to turn the power on or off or adjust your temperature settings.

Another indication that something is up with your thermostat is when it begins to display inaccurate temperature readings. If it feels warmer or cooler than it should in your home after you’ve set your thermostat, it may be malfunctioning. You should also make sure your thermostat isn’t close to any appliances that could affect its readings and is a safe distance away from sunny windows.

When your thermostat isn’t working properly, it can also cause your HVAC to cycle on and off. The overwork on your system can also be expensive, as it can waste a significant amount of energy. This process is likely to cause your energy bills to rise substantially. If you have suspiciously high utility bills, you may want to look into whether your thermostat or HVAC is the culprit.

Why should you consider upgrading to a smart thermostat?

If you’re having a new thermostat installed, it’s worth considering a smart thermostat instead of a traditional one. A smart thermostat is programmable and can often be controlled via mobile app or web portal, which will let you adjust the temperature even when you’re not in your house. Some systems also allow for zone cooling, which allows you to set different temperatures for different parts of your home. Being able to control the amount of energy your system uses and how frequently it’s turned on or off can cut down on your energy costs significantly, making a smart thermostat a smart buy from a financial perspective, too.

Another reason to consider installing a smart thermostat is because of the value it adds to your house. Prospective buyers are starting to prioritize sustainability and eco-friendly upgrades, including energy-saving smart devices like the smart thermostat. Even though you may not be considering a sale now, it’s always a good idea to improve your home in ways that may increase its overall equity.

While it can be tricky to know what’s wrong with your thermostat without experience, it’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to maintaining your HVAC system. Inaccurate readings, high bills, and poor functionality can all be red flags. If you notice any telltale signs that something might not be working properly, call a technician and have them inspect your unit and your thermostat as soon as possible. With the winter months fast approaching, you won’t regret making sure you’re able to effectively heat and cool your home all season long.

Calling in a professional for your home repair is often the smart move for homeowners. Much of the repair work that a home requires can be done by a handy property owner, but these projects can often fly off the deep end in a hurry. If you aren’t careful, you can find yourself halfway through a project only to realize that you need professional help to even bring the project to a point of stability.

Many homeowners have learned the hard way, but this doesn’t have to be the same path that you take for your home improvement projects. With this helpful guide, knowing the line between DIY accessibility and professional contracting help has never been easier.

Roof repairs are a professional’s wheelhouse.

Perhaps one of the easiest areas to leave it to the professionals in the space above your head. A roof requires constant maintenance, and a replacement every 20 to 25 years on average. Conducting wood rot repair, re-shingling, and even gutter cleaning can and should be done with the help of a professional. Some of the cursory debris cleaning and bi-yearly weathering checks can be done on your own, but anything beyond this level of involvement should include the trained eye of a roofing contractor. The importance of this household system is just too great to leave it up to your own devices.

The roof is essential for maintaining heating, cooling, and energy efficiency, and it’s instrumental in keeping rodents, bugs, and rain out of the interior of your property. A roofing contractor is a must for even many of the smaller repair works that must be done to maintain a highly functional home.

Electrical work can be dangerous.

For homeowners who need electrical work done within their homes, a professional is an absolute must. Calling an electrician in Albuquerque or your local area is your best bet when dealing with power issues, lighting installation, and more. This is because the electrical systems in your home can be incredibly dangerous for those who don’t know how typical residential wiring works, or for those who don’t have the training and practical experience working with electricity itself. These powered circuits make for a comfortable and efficient home, yet they can be deadly for those who don’t have access to proper training and safety equipment. There’s a reason why many property owners with newborns and toddlers invest in the electrical socket plugs that adorn low-lying electrical outlets.

Hire an electrician with years of experience for a quick fix that prioritizes safety and getting the job done right.

Focus on the foundation for greater peace of mind.

Moving to the bottom of the home, foundation repair is another area in which professional assistance is a great idea. Homeowners who are dealing with cracked foundations, level troubles, or concrete slabs that are moving, sinking, or otherwise failing will find the best results by calling a professional, like Above All Leveling. Above All is experienced in wood rot repair, leveling services, blocks and slabs installation or repair, and even pier and dock installation that requires specialized, underwater techniques. Homeowners who are dealing with foundation failure in beam houses, slabs under the home, and more can rest easy knowing that a professional foundation repair firm can quickly diagnose and fix the trouble that’s threatening their home. Foundation problems are next to impossible for a homeowner to address on their own, so a call to the professionals should be your first move when discovering foundation repair needs in your property.

With these three areas in mind, making the call to a professional to get your property back on track in a hurry can be done quickly and painlessly.

If you’ve always wanted to build your own home instead of buying one, you’ll need to learn everything you can about the home building process. While you may have your dream design in mind, it’s also vital to understand the legal requirements that need to be met. Perhaps, you’re just fascinated about how home buildings come alive, from the foundation to framing. If so, here’s a step-by-step guide to the home building process.

Have the legal requirements in place.

Before putting shovels into the ground to prepare the site, there must be approval from the local government. The necessary consent covers virtually everything from changing the land contour to the electrical works, septic system, plumbing, etc. If you want to take some of that approval-seeking pressure and stress off you, an experienced real estate lawyer can help you handle all the legal requirements you need to fulfill. This way, you won’t be accused of breaking any laws.

Depending on your location, property lawyers can help to ensure you have all the permits from the local government in place. For example, if you’re based in Canada, lawyers like Malliha Wilson will come in handy. This Canadian lawyer hails from Sri Lanka and not only has real estate experience but also extensive knowledge in labour law.

She received a distinguished career award by the South Asian bar association and has since served as Ontario’s assistant deputy attorney general between 2008 and 2016 and as Director of the Crown Law Office-Civil from 2004 to 2008. She was also the Legal Director for the Ministry of Labour from 2000 to 2004 and was formerly a Special Legal Advisor at the Investment Management Corporation of Ontario. Currently, Malliha Wilson now serves on the Board of the Churchill Society.

Prepare site and pour the concrete foundation.

Once all the legal requirements are in place, you can then go ahead to work on the physical construction, and the foundation laying can begin. Here, the building starts to take its first shape, starting with the digging of the trenches and pouring of the concrete footing.

Local government inspection officers also have to come in to check the foundation. What’s more, just as you secured permits, another thing you need to secure for your yet-to-be-completed home is insurance. Don’t forget that a house being constructed is open to risks as well. From weather damage to theft, a house under construction works can incur losses even before completion. So, it’s advisable to get insurance before completion.

You can get such coverage at sites like insurancetales.com. Their expert advisors have over 20 years of experience offering sound insurance solutions and financial advice. With a quick phone call, you’ll be offered a selection of plans and immediate quotes.

Frame the sides and roof.

In this next step, you’ll have to work with the framing carpenters to put up the framework for the house’s walls, floors, roof, and ceiling. This stage is often very fast and can be completed in about two weeks, making your home take good shape. Still, a lot is left undone.

Work on the plumbing, HVAC system, electrical and insulation installation.

Electrical circuits and plumbing works can now come in, and after completion, inspection is also done to ensure compliance with regulations.

Insulation is also one of the most important aspects of homes. The standard types of insulation used by contractors are fiberglass, foam, and cellulose. However, other types of insulation are used in other climates, such as concrete blocks, spray foams, insulated concrete forms, etc.

Hang the drywall and trim installations.

Hanging of drywalls is done around the house. The seam is then taped and primed with spraying equipment.

Paint walls and install kitchen/ bathroom countertops.

The drywall installation is usually a messy job. So it’s time for the paint job. The walls and ceilings are painted or can also be finished with texture at this stage. You can also paint the countertops and cabinets.

Finally, work on the flooring and final checks

The options here include hardwood, carpet, laminate flooring, tiles (ceramic), engineered wood flooring, etc. At this point, you want to inspect the home for any adjustments and or mistakes.

Many people sell their house to buy a new house. However, if you can afford to buy a new house without selling your current house, you can make significant long-term income by renting out your old house. The thought of this may be overwhelming if you’ve never rented out a house before. However, once you learn how to business works, it can make a high, mostly passive income. Here is a quick guide for how to rent out your house when you buy a new one.

1. Buy your new house.

It will be significantly easier to prepare your house for rent if you aren’t living there. So your first step will be to buy your new house and move into it. When packing and getting ready to move, think carefully about what you take and what you leave behind. For example, houses rent faster when they come with appliances. You may consider leaving your appliances behind and buying new ones. Take time to consider the light fixtures, curtains, and window air conditioners if the house doesn’t have an air conditioner. It would help if you also kept in mind that tenants could destroy anything you leave in the house, so you don’t want to leave anything you have a personal attachment to.

2. Utilize moving services.

495movers.com provides services for the day of the move. You will have a lot on your mind, so getting professional help will aid in the transition. Since you aren’t selling the old house, you may be tempted to drag out the move by leaving the stuff you don’t need right away, or you aren’t sure about it in the old house. Doing this will only prolong your ability to rent out the house. If you need to, rent a storage facility during the relocation process. The moving company can move things to your new house and the storage facility, so you don’t have to worry about it. Professional movers can move your entire home in a day. On the morning of the move, you will need to direct the movers on what goes where in the new home and the storage facility.

3. Prepare your old house.

Once all of your stuff is out of the house, you need to prepare it for rent. If it is an older home and does not have central air conditioning, you’ll want to consider the investment because it will make your house highly more attractive to potential renters, and you can charge more. A ductless AC or a ductless mini-split can provide a central system without the need for ductwork. A ductless mini-split system can incorporate your air conditioner and your heat pump for a fraction of the long-term costs of a traditional HVAC system.

In addition to the air conditioning, you want to look for other small changes you can make to make the house more appealing to potential renters. This may include fencing in the yard or fixing the driveway. You also need to clean the entire house thoroughly. It should be spotless when potential tenants tour it. This may mean getting the carpets professionally cleaned or replaced.

4. Get a contract and follow it.

A lease is a contract between the tenant and the property owner that specifies their legal agreement. The lease will include information like the rent amount, due date, and how it needs to be paid. It will also include rules regarding pets, lawn maintenance, changes to the structure, and grounds for terminating the lease. You must spell everything out in the lease. Do not trust anything to a verbal or handshake agreement.

Home is where the heart is, right? Sure, that’s true, but it’s also so much more than that—especially these days. Home is also where we’ve been working, playing, attending classes, and everything else for the last year and a half. You’d be forgiven if you were a little bit tired of the look of your home at this point—many homeowners feel that way.

Still, there’s a way to keep your home a haven and to make it feel that way for all your family members. How do you ask? The answer is simple: Kitchen design and regular maintenance on appliances. It’s as simple as that. The quickest way into anyone’s heart is through their stomach, which is why the kitchen is often the focal point of a home. Here are five reasons why the kitchen should be the heart and focal point of your home, and how you can boost your comfort levels in just a few easy steps.

1. Your kitchen is where you eat together.

No matter what the world throws at you, you can always sit together around a table and enjoy one another’s company. Gathering around a table to enjoy a meal is a simple way to take the average family and bring them closer together. Whatever the challenges of daily life, in the long run, you’ll remember the time spent around the table and so will the rest of your family.

2. Your kitchen is where you start your days.

That first cup of coffee is one of the fixtures of your schedule you probably don’t want to compromise on, and for good reason. The focal point of a kitchen is often the backsplash by the countertop or the kitchen table, both of which are where you may be enjoying that first cup of java juice. Word to the wise—by making sure that your backsplash or the cabinets where you keep your coffeemaker are prettier than average (maybe by adding some tile with a pop of color or some natural stone), you’ll make the beginning of your day more delightful as well.

3. Your kitchen is where you gather yourself after a long day.

Similar to that first cup of coffee, putting your feet up after a long day and enjoying the cool air from your air conditioner (or the heat from your heating system) is what any homeowner deserves. The kitchen is where that happens as well. Of course, none of that reading can happen if your air conditioner is on the fritz, which is where the regular maintenance of appliances comes in.

AC repairs or replacement will go a long way towards ridding your kitchen, pantry, and surrounding areas of unusual odors and even mold! If you really want to enjoy the heart of your home, have an HVAC professional with years of experience come by and inspect your AC unit on a regular basis.

4. Your kitchen is where you cook for those you love.

Taking something out of the pantry and crafting a home-cooked meal for your family members is an act of love. Setting a pie on one of the shelves to cool as your partner or kids tell you stories about their day is something truly special that can’t be replaced. The kitchen is where those memories get made as well.

5. Your kitchen is where you find peace of mind.

Whatever amount of time you spend in the kitchen, however, many noises are bustling around you, whichever challenge you’re facing on a particular day—there is a sense of control that comes from spending time in the kitchen. This is one reason why it’s common for homeowners to spend a lot of money on making their kitchen stand out and feel comfortable. Afterward, when they’re standing by the kitchen island and cooking, it’s easier to take a deep breath and feel better about everything that’s going on.

When we purchase a home, one of the biggest things that we’ll need to be aware of is the HVAC unit for the house. This will be the system that will help regulate the air conditioning and heating services of your home. Especially with the summer months approaching, there’s no better time than now than to make sure your HVAC unit is in tip-top shape.

Another big part of your home’s heating and cooling system is the energy recovery ventilator (ERV). This device is a ventilation system that transfers stale air from your home with fresh outdoor air. Since maintaining good indoor air quality is important, the ERV is a great addition to any home. This energy recovery ventilation system is just as important as its sister system, the HVAC system. We’ll focus today on why energy recovery ventilators are so helpful.

You receive indoor air quality.

An energy recovery ventilator can help with improving the air quality of your home. The air in your home is composed of various particulates that float around, in many cases unseen. These particulates can include dirt, pollen, pet dander, dust, and stale air. These contaminants can be harmful to the health of adults. The health of children is also put at risk by allowing these particles to float around your house unheeded. One of the benefits of using energy recovery ventilators is that it can help to clear out these airborne particles.

You want your air to have an acceptable indoor air quality so you won’t find yourself coughing all of the time. In addition to ridding your home of the aforementioned contaminants, the energy recovery ventilator also helps to reduce volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which circulate throughout your home. These include ethanol, xylene, acetone, and benzene.

You’ll often find these in commercial cleaners and air fresheners. With an ERV, your home will be able to get rid of such VOCs, while also providing better air quality and energy savings. High indoor air quality is a great reason why you should invest in an energy recovery ventilator for your home.

Energy savings are good.

We touched on this a little in the previous section, but saving on energy is one of the many reasons why energy recovery ventilators are helpful. An energy recovery ventilator can help with heating or cooling air. The machine does this by transferring heat or away from the outgoing air. Working through such a method, an ERV can help with energy savings, ultimately lowering your utility bills.

An ERV unit is a solid investment for any home and will help you to save money over time. Over time, it can also help to increase the value of your home for potential buyers. If your goal is to increase your energy efficiency while also save money, it might be best to add an ERV system to your house.

Increases the life of your HVAC system.

In addition to cycling out contaminants through its ventilation system, an ERV will also be able to increase the life of your HVAC system. An ERV will help to keep your heater and air conditioner from running so often. It can also prevent such contaminants as dirt, pollen, pet dander, dust, and stale air from clogging your air filter. Ultimately such clogs can lead to dirty or leaky ductwork.

When this occurs, you don’t have to worry so much about costly HVAC system repairs. Your HVAC system will continue to work longer and will stay in perfect shape. These repairs can be extremely costly, taking money out of your pocket. These types of repairs fall between $150 to $450.

On average, homeowners spend $319 on air conditioning service, while they pay approximately $268 on repairs involving a furnace. Your energy recovery ventilator will help to prevent you from having to spend these large amounts of money. Increasing the life of your HVAC system is one of the many reasons why you should invest in an ERV.

If you spend any time around your house, you will probably discover several projects that you’ll want to tackle. On your list of projects to complete might be replacing a broken handrail or fixing a squeaking floorboard. When it comes to keeping your home in working order, however, it’s not only the obvious issues that might need to be addressed. More often, the subtle problems usually lead to the biggest repairs. This is why it’s important to investigate new cracks, strange noises, funny smells, or water spots as warning signs of problems. From the evidence of mold to indications of a plumbing issue, you shouldn’t ignore signs that there’s something wrong with your house.

Your house is more than just where you live. Your home is a place where your family makes memories and where your life story takes place. Your home is also a significant investment that you’ll want to be sure to maintain. While your house can’t talk, however, it can tell you when something is wrong. There are numerous signs of trouble that some people might miss if they aren’t paying attention. Let’s take a look at how to spot home warning signs.

HVAC Problems

Your HVAC system is among one of the most expensive systems in your home. Depending on where you live, your furnace and air conditioner could be essential to your family’s comfort. If your system fails during an extremely hot or cold day, it could turn into an emergency. This is why it’s important to take note of the warning signs of an aging furnace. From noises to temperature troubles, there are a few things that you should look out for. While a slight hum from your unit is normal, if you notice thunderous noises or rattling, it could signal trouble.

Additionally, you might find that it’s harder to maintain a consistently comfortable temperature in your home. This could mean that your furnace is having difficulties keeping up with demands. You might also notice that your energy bills are higher than usual as a result of inefficiency. An aging furnace encounters increasing problems with efficiency. Expert technicians and manufacturers agree that HVAC systems last 10-15 years on average. As units age, you’ll want to pay attention to warning signs that you require a furnace repair or replacement.

Electrical Problems

Some homeowners with electrical issues report an odd, fishy smell, while others see it as a urine smell. Either way, a smell of this kind could mean an electrical issue in the home. This fishy smell could be the overheating and melting of the insulating plastic or ­rubber around electrical wires. Since the National Fire Protection Association says that electrical fires account for 13% of all residential fires, you’ll want to pay attention to any strange smells. Additionally, if an outlet smells like it’s burning, you’ll want to take immediate action. Protect yourself and your home from an electrical fire by addressing potential problems right away.

Hot Water Problems

Aside from HVAC systems and your home’s electrical network, another essential for many homeowners is the water heater. This is another appliance that is needed for many things around the house. If you don’t have enough hot water or you have problems with varying water temperatures, it could be a signal that your water heater is failing. Additionally, if you notice any corrosion or leaking around the bottom of the tank, you will need to consult a plumber for a repair or replacement recommendation. However, not all water heater problems are catastrophic and might require something as simple a removing sediment buildup from the tank.

Paying attention to warning signs around your home could help prevent major damage and repairs. With all of the systems working together to make your home comfortable and livable, it isn’t a matter of if something will go wrong; it’s a matter of when. However, the key to good home maintenance is paying attention so that you can prevent much larger issues.