Missing insulation can lead to ice dams. Water is one of the most damaging factors that contribute to the deterioration of a home and when it comes in the form of ice, the results can lead to a significant number of problems. Ice can not only damage the rainwater management system (gutters [...]
Leaking hose bibb. Leaking hose bibbs can waste a significant amount of water and can lead to significantly higher water bills when left unchecked. In addition, leakage at exterior fixtures have the added hazards of directing water towards a foundation, which can lead to moisture intrusion into the basement or crawlspace, as [...]
Homes are designed to keep many things out including water, excessive heat or cold, inclement weather, and pests. While homes are good at keeping most of these things out, there are always some chinks in the armor. Pests in a home are generally described as an animal that can cause harm to a home [...]
Downspouts are an essential part of the stormwater management system of a home, which includes gutters, downspouts, and downspout drains. While gutters collect rain water at the roof eaves, downspouts direct this water to underground stormwater system that sends to water out to the street or downspouts may discharge in a properly sloped yard [...]
Most modern windows in homes are made up of multiple panes of glass which are separated by air gaps, which are then sealed around the edges by a flexible rubber seal. Insulated Glass Units (IGU) can also contain an inert gas in between these glass panes, such as krypton or argon, which help to [...]
Lead paint is a product that was commonly used in the 19th and 20th centuries in American homes and can be found in a vast number of homes built during this period. Lead based paint was a widespread product known for being water resistant and quick drying. However, lead based paint was banned by [...]
First invented by Willis Carrier in 1902, modern air conditioning provides a welcome respite from the summer heat and is a common appliance found in many homes as part of the HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system. While this system is commonly used when temperatures rise outdoors, air conditioners should not be tested or [...]
Fences around a home help to create a more peaceful and safe space where pets and children can use the yard freely without being open to the street or neighborhood beyond. A fenced-in home gives more privacy and can also help to increase the curb appeal of a home and raise home value. However, a [...]
Keeping water away and outside of a home is a critical part of keeping a home in good shape and preventing moisture related issues as well as structural problems. A home with gutters in our climate is more susceptible to mold, wood decay, foundation undermining, wood destroying organisms, and more. Gutters are the first [...]
The heating and cooling system in a home is a critical part of a home’s ventilation, air quality, and comfort. The ducts in this system work to transport warm or conditioned air to the air registers throughout the home and the air filter works to trap air dust and other particulates that can damage [...]
