Common gutter problems
Gutter systems are important for protecting the home from roof drainage. Gutters and downspouts work with flashings to direct the water away from walls and foundations, and toward rainwater management systems, such as storm [...]
Bathroom and Kitchen Fans: Venting Into the Attic
Moisture in the home can be the source of many problems and addressing this issue is critical in preserving the functionality of a structure. Since bathrooms and kitchens are two of the largest sources [...]
Recessed Lighting and Insulation Contact
Recessed lighting is a popular feature in both new construction and in remodeled homes, but an important safety factor is not obvious. Some recessed light fixtures are designed to be safe for insulation contact [...]
Temperature Pressure Relief Valve (TPR)
The unassuming valve and discharge pipe on the exterior of water heaters are some very important parts of the home, preventing extremely dangerous situations from arising. The temperature-pressure relief valve (TPR) can be often [...]
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters: What Are They and Where Should They Be?
Since their creation by Charles Dalziel in 1961, ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI’s) have become a commonplace item in homes and have saved countless lives from electrocution. But how do these devices work and [...]
Underground Oil Tanks in Portland: Hidden Costs
Once a common form of heating in Portland, oil fueled furnaces have become largely replaced by gas and electricity as a primary source of heat. Oil furnaces required large amounts of oil to continue [...]