Safety devices in homes have come in many forms over years, some of which are relatively inexpensive and require only small modifications to existing hardware to put in place. However, these changes can have a significant impact on the safety and well-being of a home’s occupants and create a safer environment to call home. [...]
Wintertime in the Pacific Northwest brings many great outdoor activities; from skiing the slopes of Mount Hood to storm watching at Cannon Beach, wintertime in the PNW brings plenty of changes to our region. While cold and wet weather can put a damper on some activities, it can also bring a host of problems [...]
Regular maintenance is the best way to help extend the life of the various components within a home and to keep them operating properly. One of the most important areas of a home is the roof, which serves to protect the interior from rain, hail, debris, and wind. Regularly cleaning and performing preventative maintenance [...]
Maintaining water safety and quality in a home is an extremely important part of regular home maintenance and repairs. With the majority of households in the U.S. drinking tap water (71%), keeping impurities and contaminants out of the potable water supply is critical. While city water from the street is regularly inspected and treated [...]
A common plumbing fixture in a home, showers are a modern convenience that provide clean water for bathing activities while using less water than a traditional bath. While showers typically don’t require much maintenance beyond regular cleaning and periodic replacement of deteriorated sealant, some components can require repair or replacement as they age, such [...]
Fire is one of the most destructive and life threatening hazards to a home and can lead to significant damage or death if it is allowed to spread unchecked. While the most common area for a residential fire to start is the kitchen, another common area of the home where fires are likely to [...]
Dead front covers on electrical panels help to keep potential malfunctions such as arcing or sparks from reaching beyond the panel and help protect one of the most dangerous areas in a home. Since it only takes 100 milliamperes (0.1 amp) to be lethal, electrical panels should be approached with caution. Other hazards such [...]
An effective and relatively low-cost roofing option, asphalt shingles are one of the most common types of roofing material used on steep slope roofs. When properly installed and maintained, asphalt shingles can last between 20 and 50 years depending on the manufacturer, quality of shingles, and installation method. However, the life span and effectiveness [...]
Shut off valves are an important part of a plumbing system and can save a home from a significant amount of damage if used at the right time. However, valves can leak, break, or become stuck over time and may need to be repaired or replaced for them to remain in good working order. [...]
Fireplaces are a pleasant addition to home and can provide an enjoyable source of warmth in the wintertime. However, like all areas of a home, fireplaces do need the occasional maintenance in order to operate properly and safely. Since fireplaces are used to contain flames and toxic combustion byproducts, their regular maintenance is crucial [...]
