Jax Media Team, Author at NE FL Contractors

October 24, 2023 by Jax Media Team Jax Media Team

How to Spot an Issue with Your Gas Line

Gas lines can become blocked or broken over time. To make sure it remains functional and is ready to deliver energy efficiently, mercaptan is added to natural gas so if it odorizes when exposed to air it signals when it is time for inspection and repair work to take place.

If you suspect an issue with your gas line, you need the right emergency services fast. Here are some of the signs you have an issue with our gas line.

Unusual Smells

Your gas line requires immediate repair if it emits a strong sulfurous or rotten egg scent. Since natural gas does not naturally have a scent, companies add mercaptan to create an unpleasant odor often described as similar to that found in rotten eggs or sulfur.

If you notice an unusual smell, it’s a pretty serious sign that you need to take action fast. Immediately shut off any appliances that smell of gas and evacuate the area. Call a plumber as soon as possible for a gas line inspection to pinpoint its source and confirm a possible leak.

Cracked Appearance

Visual inspection of all gas lines regularly can help avoid problems with them, especially during hotter and colder periods when temperatures can cause expansion or contraction, potentially cracking them.

Cracked gas lines are an obvious telltale sign that needs repair. If the line appears discolored or has any noticeable cracks in it, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance immediately.

High Gas Bills

An unexpected, significant spike in utility bills is a telltale sign that your gas line requires repair. While seasonal variations or increased usage could be the source of this spike, if your bills continue to be unusually high it’s important to get a professional assessment of the issue and see where the problem lies.

Dead Plants Near Gas Line

If your houseplants suddenly begin to wither and die despite regular watering, this could be a telltale sign that something has gone amiss with your gas line. Natural gas leaks poison plant roots by blocking oxygen absorption causing them to wilt and die off altogether.

Any outdoor plants or grass that appear to be dying in an isolated spot on your property could be an indicator that there’s an underground leak contaminating its roots with toxic waste, leading to its death from below.

Hissing Sound

A hissing sound indicates there may be an issue with your gas line, so if it sounds, leave immediately and contact a plumber immediately – hissing gas has the potential to escape and necessitate immediate repair work. If this occurs in your home, contact an emergency plumber as quickly as possible for immediate repairs – hissing noises caused by gas escaping from its pipe can be extremely hazardous; call your gas company immediately!

Corrosion and Rust

Residences and businesses alike depend heavily on gas-powered appliances like stoves, water heaters, and furnaces to power daily life and business operations. To remain operational in Katy, these devices need access to natural gas via our local gas lines.

Over time, these lines may corrode or develop leaks due to age or other factors, resulting in hissing sound and making devices connected to it difficult to use. Black iron pipes also emit an unpleasant rotten egg smell if any leakage occurs.

Maintaining regular inspections by professionals is crucial to maintaining efficient water services. That way, any minor problems can be identified early and repaired before becoming something much bigger. Plus, preventative inspections may identify other issues like loose connections that need fixing as well.

These are some of the common things you might notice if there is an issue with your gas line. Make sure you call a professional team that can help get your gas line repaired fast, if you notice any of these issues.

October 10, 2023 by Jax Media Team Jax Media Team

Why You Should Consider Installing a Water Softener in Your Home

If your clothes seem dull and itchy, and appliance repairs keep increasing, consider having a professional water softener installed in your home. A water softener removes hardness minerals that clog drains, cause appliances to malfunction, and leave unsightly stains on fixtures and tableware – providing relief!

Here are some of the benefits you will gain when you have a water softener installed in your home by a professional contractor.

Top Benefits of Installing a Water Softener in Your Home

1. Better Laundry

Home water softening systems can help you get better laundry. Hard water can cause your clothing to feel unpleasant while softening that water can make a pretty big difference.

Your best option for placing a water softener in your home should be near where your main water line enters, to ensure that its treatment takes place before any faucets or appliances use it.

As water flows through a softener, it comes into contact with small resin beads with negative electrical charges that attract positive calcium and magnesium ions that reside within it, creating softened water flowing out of your home’s faucets.

2. Less Soap

If your dishes are plagued with streaks and film, a water softener could be the solution. By extracting minerals that contribute to them, softeners provide sparkling clean dishes and cleaner, smoother skin and hair.

A water softener consists of two tanks; the first contains plastic resin beads that attract hardness minerals through an ion-attraction process; while the other contains salt that flushes out and refreshes them periodically to maintain proper functioning and ensure they remain fresh. They can either be mounted on your wall or situated under your sink.

3. Prevents Scale Buildup

A water softener provides an efficient solution to this issue by preventing the build-up of hard minerals in your pipes and fixtures, helping soap dissolve more efficiently while also decreasing mineral spots on glassware. Furthermore, they prevent calcium and magnesium scale formation, prolonging appliance lifespan.

Installation of a water softener may seem straightforward, but for optimal results, it’s wiser to entrust this task to professional plumbers. They are trained experts who will know which system will best suit your home and know how to install it safely – usually near the water heater or basement if applicable.

4. Reduces Water Heater Repairs

By installing a water softener in your home, your water heater will be better protected. Since hard water won’t be going into your water heater, you can keep it from needing repairs as often. The softer water can help prevent rust and corrosion inside the water heater, along with build-up on the heating element.

5. Prevents Health Issues

The purchase and installation of a water softener are sound investments for homeowners. Water softeners prevent long-term problems with appliances while saving money on costly repairs or replacement costs, reduce detergent buildup, mineral deposits, and soap scum on plumbing fixtures and keep hair and skin feeling soft and clean.

You can prevent health issues that come from hard water when you have a professional team install your water softener.

If you’re considering a water softener for your home, consider these benefits. Make sure you hire the right professional to install your water softener, so you can get all the benefits listed here.

September 19, 2023 by Jax Media Team Jax Media Team

3 Common Mistakes When Trying to Repair Drywall

Drywall repairs can be a true pain in the neck if they’re done incorrectly. Luckily, errors are easy to avoid if you know what signs to watch out for. Here are three of the most common mistakes made when repairing drywall.

Common Mistakes Made When Repairing Drywall

1. Over-sanding

Drywall may seem indestructible, but it can still become damaged from regular activities like vacuuming or children throwing toys around the room. Luckily, such damage is straightforward to remedy using an aircraft-type snip to cut away and replace any severed corner beads with new pieces before applying joint compound and sanding each coat to smooth the surface.

One common misstep when trying to repair drywall is over-sanding. This can be a costly mistake as it weakens and exposes your walls to future damage. An alternative solution would be using a light touch hand sander instead, though always wear a respirator when doing this to protect against inhalation of Gypsum and Silica dust particles; additionally, clean up after every session with a damp sponge to help minimize dust build-up on the walls as you work.

2. Hanging Drywall with Nails Instead of Screws

Drywall is attached to wall studs and ceiling joists using nails with long shanks and large heads known as drywall nails. Over time, however, those nails may lose their grip and pop through the surface – something which may happen due to shrinking wood framing, shifting in the home, or because it wasn’t driven solidly into either stud or joist. Nail holes may be repaired temporarily by tapping them back down with a hammer; however, this won’t solve the underlying cause.

Instead of replacing the nail that was lost through popping out, use drywall screws to reattach it back onto its frame in the area where the hole appeared. This can help stop future instances of pulling away from the wall due to tension from pulling drywall away again. To do this, locate any nearby studs and use screws designed specifically for drywall when driving screws into place.

Once the screws have been securely mounted, use a lightweight patching compound applied with a putty knife to fill and smooth over any new holes that have opened up. After drying, lightly sand the area with a sanding block to eliminate any rough patches and provide a seamless repair patch finish; finally repaint over it so as to hide its marks of sanding.

3. Applying Too Much Mud

Drywall repairs usually involve filling in dented, holes and cracks with mud. While smaller dings and scratches may be patched easily with lightweight spackling compounds and putty knives, larger holes and cracks require greater support as well as thicker fillers in order to achieve durable repairs that remain virtually undetectable.

Too much mud applied during drywall repair can create an unattractive bulge on the wall that can become easily visible and more susceptible to cracking over time. To avoid this scenario, try using a smaller tool for applying your mud instead of large brushes or sponges; it will allow for greater control in controlling how much is being applied across all sides and ensure even coverage.

Too much mud can also be hazardous because it traps moisture inside walls, leading to mold growth, mildew formation, and other serious health concerns that are hard (and costly) to address.

To avoid this scenario, always wait 24 hours for your mud to fully set before beginning to paint it. Additionally, it is a good idea to wait until humidity levels have decreased before starting your new drywall painting project since high humidity can cause wood framing to expand and contract which in turn results in cracks in your wallboard.

Make sure you avoid these three common mistakes made when trying to repair drywall, so that you don’t end up with bigger issues.

September 14, 2023 by Jax Media Team Jax Media Team

How Often Should You Pressure Wash Your Home and Why?

Homeowners in certain areas must contend with dirt, mildew, and mold growth on their property, making regular pressure washing essential to keeping it looking its best.

Not only does an unsightly exterior make your building less appealing, but it can actually wear away at certain building materials over time. Regularly cleaning roofs, gutters, and surfaces helps lower structural risk. Here are some factors to consider when deciding how often to pressure wash your home.

Weather

How much dirt builds up on the exterior of your home depends on local weather conditions. Mold and mildew flourish in humid environments while beach homes accumulate sand accumulation. Rain, wind, and debris also leave their mark by depositing dirt onto your house’s siding.

Pressure-washing your home should take place between spring and fall when temperatures don’t become extreme. Avoid pressure-washing under direct sunlight, when temperatures become extremely hot or when air becomes dry as this could damage surfaces such as wood.

If you live in an area with harsh winters, it’s a wise move to conduct two pressure washes per year – one before and one after winter seasons – in order to protect the exterior from mold and mildew growth and maintain its beauty. Winter provides an opportunity to remove debris collected from fallen leaves and branches that have collected in gutters or collected on surfaces like driveways and roofs.

Season

Homeowners may view pressure washing as an optional task, but it plays an integral part in many home projects. Paint cans, sealant tubes, and stain bottles all stipulate that a clean surface must be present prior to their application.

Pressure washing your property regularly not only enhances its appearance but also helps prevent the growth of harmful mold and mildew that could compromise building materials and cost thousands to fix down the line.

Springtime is an excellent time for pressure washing as weather conditions tend to be warmer, which enables deeper cleaning while helping surfaces dry more quickly afterward. Pressure washing also removes pollen and other allergens that may trigger respiratory problems in children and adults alike, and removes pollen that causes respiratory difficulties for some people.

Fall also presents opportunities to power wash as leaves can accumulate moisture in your yard which promotes the development of fungus growth.

Materials

Power washing your property regularly can bring many advantages. Not only does it enhance curb appeal and extend roof shingle life expectancies, but also it protects other exterior materials such as vinyl siding.

Before hiring a professional to spray, move anything that may obstruct their work – such as patio umbrellas or soft material outdoor furniture – away from surfaces you want to be cleaned, such as an umbrella. In addition, remove or cover light fixtures, air conditioners, or electrical outlets that could become submerged by water spray.

Ask the professionals you hire what the optimal cleaning frequency should be, especially for certain materials like tile roof tiles that collect grime quickly or vinyl siding which is more prone to mildew and cobweb buildup.

Also, keep in mind that certain materials require more frequent washing – tiles being one example where dirt builds up easily while cobwebs form easily on vinyl siding surfaces can warrant pressure washing more frequently as well as pressure cleaning more regularly if they feature these features.

Typically, pressure washing your home once or twice a year is plenty, but in some cases, you may want to do it more or less. Work with the right professionals and you can set up a regular maintenance schedule to follow for pressure washing.

August 23, 2023 by Jax Media Team Jax Media Team

DIY Vs Hiring a Professional Contractor – Pros and Cons

When it comes to home renovations, there are many decisions that need to be made. One of the most crucial is whether to DIY or hire a professional contractor for your remodeling project.

It’s essential to take into account your budget, skill set, and time when making this decision. Additionally, research and get multiple quotes from contractors so you can compare prices, references, and reviews before making your final choice.

Cost

The DIY movement has spurred many homeowners to tackle home repair and remodeling projects themselves, often finding rewarding rewards in the process. Many who embrace this lifestyle have discovered talents they never knew they possessed before.

Though television shows may make remodeling projects appear easy, the reality is far more complex than many homeowners realize. Doing the work alone can prove costly and time-consuming if you have never attempted such a task before.

Hiring a professional contractor is usually more cost-effective than doing the work yourself, due to their expertise and connections to subcontractors and suppliers. Plus, they can complete your project quickly and efficiently which saves you money in the long run.

Furthermore, professional contractors will have all the necessary tools and knowledge for getting quality results. Moreover, some may provide warranties and insurance on their work which could protect against costly mistakes or injuries. It’s essential that you carefully weigh up all pros and cons before making your final decision.

Time

When it comes to home improvement projects, there are advantages and disadvantages to both DIYing it yourself and hiring a professional contractor. It all comes down to your preferences, budget, and the scope of the job at hand.

Many people find DIY projects to be a rewarding way to develop new abilities and show off their craftsmanship. Unfortunately, some tasks may prove too complex for even experienced homeowners and require specialized knowledge and tools.

Projects involving electricity/gas, water, or heat, such as plumbing and installing a heating system, should usually be left to professionals. They have more insight into local regulations and codes plus access to materials at lower costs than average homeowners have access to.

Safety

Do-it-yourself projects are an excellent way to save money and spruce up your home, but it is essential that you consider safety when working on DIY jobs.

DIY projects often lead to injuries from falls, cuts, and thrown debris – leading to an abundance of emergency room visits each year.

To avoid injuries when working with DIY projects, always adhere to strict safety protocols. It is especially critical that you use ladders properly and put on the appropriate safety gear when climbing up one.

In addition to ladder safety, it is wise to wear gloves when working with tools and materials. Doing so will shield your hands from cuts, abrasions, and chemical burns.

Quality

The quality of a home improvement project can have an immense impact on its resale value. Therefore, consulting with an expert before beginning any major DIY home improvement task is recommended. A licensed contractor will assist in finding the best solution for your needs, save you time and money, and guarantee that you receive top-quality results.

Selecting the ideal contractor is just as essential as selecting quality materials and guaranteeing that work is done correctly. To guarantee success, a competent contractor should have an intimate knowledge of your home’s layout, along with clear expectations.

A competent contractor with these abilities and tools can get the job done with less fuss, headaches, and much greater satisfaction. Whether it’s just a minor renovation or a major overhaul needed, professional contractors are reliable for doing it right from the start.

August 9, 2023 by Jax Media Team Jax Media Team

DIY Vs Hiring a Professional Contractor – Pros and Cons

When it comes to home renovations, there are many decisions that need to be made. One of the most crucial is whether to DIY or hire a professional contractor for your remodeling project.

Cost

Time

Safety

Do-it-yourself projects are an excellent way to save money and spruce up your home, but it is essential that you consider safety when working on DIY jobs.

DIY projects often lead to injuries from falls, cuts, and thrown debris – leading to an abundance of emergency room visits each year.

In addition to ladder safety, it is wise to wear gloves when working with tools and materials. Doing so will shield your hands from cuts, abrasions, and chemical burns.

Quality

July 24, 2023 by Jax Media Team Jax Media Team

The Benefits of Eco-Friendly Home Improvement and Maintenance

Are you thinking about renovating or remodeling your home? Eco-friendly improvements and maintenance can have numerous advantages – improving health, saving money, and even increasing the value of your house!

Reusing building materials such as flooring, cabinets, bricks, and molding is an environmentally friendly way to save money and resources when remodeling or renovating a home. Let’s look at some of the benefits you gain from eco-friendly home improvement and maintenance.

Top Benefits Going Eco-Friendly with Home Improvement and Maintenance

1. Save Money

Renovating your home to add aesthetic value, give it a fresh vibe or sell it: eco-friendly home improvement and maintenance can save money in the long run. For instance, switching to LED bulbs is an efficient way to cut energy consumption by 50%-75%.

Other solutions involve installing solar panels to generate electricity or hot water. These systems are cost-effective and can help offset your carbon footprint.

In addition to saving you money, eco-friendly home improvements can also boost your property’s resale value. This is especially crucial as resource scarcity continues to rise and demand for green homes grows.

2. Save the Environment

Many homeowners are taking on eco-friendly home improvement and maintenance projects to reduce their carbon footprint, save money, and even increase the resale value of their homes. Going green can help increase both!

Before undertaking any major home improvements, it’s wise to get an energy assessment. This will identify areas where improvements can be made for improved energy efficiency and reduced carbon footprint.

For instance, replacing your old washing machines and ovens with energy-saving models is an effective way to lower utility bills. Furthermore, it’s essential to swap out incandescent light bulbs with LED bulbs that use less power and are more eco-friendly.

Another eco-friendly upgrade is installing solar panels on your roof. These renewable energy sources can provide electricity and hot water for your home at relatively affordable costs, potentially cutting energy costs by up to 50%.

3. Better Health

One of the greatest advantages of eco-friendly home improvement and maintenance is its beneficial effect on your family’s health. From encouraging better sleep and healthier eating habits to reducing stress levels and decreasing respiratory ailments, a healthy home can make an incredible difference in how you feel and perform daily.

Start your green home improvement plan by taking an inventory of your house and identifying its biggest energy consumers. From leaky toilets to drafty windows, there are simple yet effective methods for improving energy efficiency while reducing the carbon footprint at the same time. Be strategic in choosing which improvements need prioritization first – by making informed choices now your family will reap the rewards of sustainable living for years to come. Whether planning an eco-friendly renovation or simply upgrading an existing residence, American Home Shield offers top-rated home warranties which can make all the difference when making sustainable improvements around the house.

4. Increase Home Value

Many homeowners are now focusing on eco-friendly home improvement and maintenance for both their own health and the environment. Furthermore, this can also increase your home’s value.

In addition to saving money, green home improvements offer several additional advantages such as lower utility bills, improved indoor air quality, and smarter appliances. Furthermore, eco-friendly homes may be more appealing to potential buyers and could even qualify them for a lower insurance rate.

Eco-friendly materials tend to be more cost-effective than their non-eco counterparts, and they boast greater durability over time. This means you won’t need to replace your flooring, cabinets, and other home fixtures as often.

When you’re ready to handle a home remodeling project or take care of some maintenance, consider making it an eco-friendly project to gain these benefits and more.

July 10, 2023 by Jax Media Team Jax Media Team

The Importance of Regular Roof Maintenance and Repair

Maintaining your roof not only looks better but also protects the rest of your home. This makes it a valuable asset that could increase your home’s value when you decide to sell.

Minor damages like leaks and missing shingles can quickly escalate into major issues if not addressed. That is why it is critical for your roof to be regularly inspected and maintained by experienced roofers. Here are some of the reasons regular roof maintenance and repair are so important.

Prevention of Damage

Roofs provide protection for homes against various elements, such as weather. Unfortunately, they can deteriorate and sustain damage over time, necessitating regular upkeep and repair.

Maintaining your roof will prevent leaks from spreading to the interior of the house and causing extensive damage. Furthermore, it will guarantee that all shingles are intact and free from defects which could encourage mold growth or other issues.

Extreme weather events should always be taken into consideration when inspecting roofs for leaks or clogged gutters, which could cause water damage and flooding that will be costly to rectify.

Maintaining your roof properly will not only increase energy efficiency in your home, but it’s also cost-effective. Make sure it’s properly insulated and ventilated to help regulate temperatures more consistently throughout your residence and save you money on energy bills.

Extends the Life of the Roof

Maintaining the health of your roof can ensure it lasts for many years, but only when you regularly perform maintenance and repair on it.

Roofing specialists are highly trained at recognizing minor problems that could escalate into major issues over time. By catching these issues early on, you have the chance to address them before things get out of hand.

One of the primary advantages of extending your roof’s life is that it helps save you money on repairs and replacement. It’s much more cost-effective to fix one loose shingle than to have to replace an entire section due to neglect.

Maintaining regular roof maintenance not only helps your home become more energy-efficient, but it can also increase its value and give you peace of mind that everything inside is secure and safe.

Increases the Value of Your Home

Regular roof maintenance and repair is an investment that will reap rewards in the future, both for you as a homeowner and when selling your home. A home in good condition attracts potential buyers, making it more appealing and leading to higher sales prices.

Furthermore, maintaining your roof will give your home a polished and appealing appearance, increasing its curb appeal and adding to its value. Additionally, maintaining your roof’s integrity will protect your family’s safety and the structural integrity of your home, giving potential buyers more assurance. Furthermore, taking the necessary steps to maintain its roof can prevent costly repairs or replacements in the future, so there won’t be a need to do extensive renovations in order to sell it.

Prevents Health Issues

Roofs are built to last decades, but exposure to the elements can drastically reduce their longevity. Without regular inspections and upkeep, even minor issues like damaged shingles or improperly sealed flashing can lead to water damage, mold growth, and other health hazards.

These issues can be identified and remedied before they worsen, helping to avoid costly repairs or premature roof replacement. With regular roof maintenance, a contractor can ensure your shingles are securely attached and free from holes or tears, gutters are clean, vents are sealed to prevent leaks, and any critters may have taken refuge on your roof.

They also take care of any insects or rodents that may be living within it. These pests can leave behind a lot of biohazards, so it’s best to catch them before any serious harm has been done. That is why hiring an expert to inspect your roof regularly is so important; not only will this extend the life of your roof but also prevent future health problems from arising.

When you properly take care of your roof, you won’t have to worry about replacing it as often. Make sure you take care of the necessary roof maintenance and repairs for your home.

Choosing The Right Contractor. Home Improvement

June 24, 2023 by Jax Media Team Jax Media Team

How to Choose the Right Contractor for Your Home Improvement Project

Selecting the right contractor is essential when it comes to your home improvement project. Having someone on board will help you stay within budget and guarantee everything runs smoothly. Let’s look at some of the things you should consider when it’s time to hire the right contractor.

Top Things to Consider When Hiring a Contractor for Home Improvement

Qualifications

Hiring the ideal contractor is key to a successful home improvement project. You need someone who can deliver quality work and exceed your expectations at an affordable cost.

Contractors are accountable for planning out your project, gathering materials and supplies, managing subcontractors and laborers, adhering to safety regulations, keeping projects on schedule, and staying within budget. They ensure everything runs smoothly from start to finish.

General contractors usually possess a college degree in construction management or a related field and may hold industry certifications from organizations like the National Association of Home Builders. Furthermore, many gain valuable on-the-job experience through apprenticeships or other training programs.

Experience

Home improvement contractors work to enhance the aesthetic and functionality of residential buildings. Their duties involve assessing client needs and crafting improvements that exceed their expectations.

Many state laws require home improvement contractors to have experience in the industry, so they can demonstrate that they are competent and secure for work. Furthermore, they should possess all necessary licenses and insurance in order to operate their business legally.

Fortunately, there are numerous opportunities to gain experience in the construction industry. Some states offer formal apprenticeship programs and others require contractors to have a certain number of documented full-time years of full-time employment before being awarded a license.

Reputation

Reputation is an integral factor when selecting a contractor for your home improvement project. A company with an excellent reputation will deliver quality work and be accessible to help resolve any issues that may arise during the course of construction.

Reputations are the opinions and assessments people have of individuals, companies, brands, and products. These assessments are based on a person’s character and achievements.

A person or entity with a good reputation is generally respected and admired, while one with an unfavorable reputation appears untrustworthy and lacking in character.

When selecting a contractor, be sure to check their reputation on online review sites such as Google My Business, Angie’s List, Facebook, and Home Advisor. These platforms often use algorithms to detect fake reviews so you can trust that you’re receiving an honest assessment.

Insurance

When hiring a contractor to do home improvements, it’s essential that they carry the appropriate insurance. This should include liability, property, and workers’ compensation coverage.

Home renovations often involve hazardous tools and work that could result in injury, so it’s essential to find a contractor who is properly insured.

If the contractor you hire isn’t properly insured, it could mean financial loss if they get sued. This includes damages to your property, medical costs for customers, and legal fees if a customer files a claim against them.

Pricing

Home improvement projects can be expensive endeavors. Therefore, it is essential that you locate a contractor who offers you the most reasonable price for your requirements.

To guarantee you get a fair price, obtain at least three bids from contractors. Each bid should include materials, labor costs, and profit margins.

Before submitting any bids, ask each contractor to provide references from homeowners who have recently finished projects. After speaking with these references, inquire if they had a positive experience working with the contractor.

Hiring the right contractor doesn’t have to be difficult. When you look at these factors, you will be in good shape to hire the best possible professional contractor.

June 10, 2023 by Jax Media Team Jax Media Team

Top Home Maintenance Tips for Keeping Your Property in Top Shape

Your home is one of the most significant investments you’ll ever make. It offers you a place to live, relax and create memories. Maintaining your home requires regular care to avoid issues and keep it running optimally. Furthermore, regular upkeep may even increase its resale value. Let’s look at some of the best tips for home maintenance.

Home Maintenance Tips to Help You Keep Your Home in Great Shape

1. Clean Your Gutters

Gutters are an essential element of your home’s structure. Without them, rainwater can accumulate on your roof and cause extensive damage.

No matter if you opt to do the cleaning yourself or hire a professional, this home maintenance task should not be neglected.

Clogged gutters provide an inviting home to pests and rodents. Furthermore, they can lead to rot in your home’s foundation that could ultimately destroy it.

Regularly cleaning your gutters and downspouts can extend their life expectancy and save you from costly repairs. Furthermore, keeping them in optimal condition ensures that water is efficiently draining away from your property without damaging it.

2. Clean Your Windows

As a homeowner, it’s essential to maintain your windows in good condition so you can enjoy an expansive view of the outdoors. Water spots, streaks, and stains on windows can make them appear unattractive; however, cleaning them helps clear away this obstruction while also improving the aesthetic appeal of your home.

Cleaning windows not only improves the air quality of your home, but it can also improve it significantly. Dander, dust, pollen, and other allergens that accumulate can cause breathing issues such as a runny nose, coughing fit, itchy eyes, and sneezing.

3. Clean Your Roof

No matter if your roof is constructed of asphalt shingles or flat rubber, regular cleaning is necessary to keep its aesthetic. Furthermore, regular maintenance helps guarantee their quality and lifespan.

Fortunately, this task is not as complex as it seems and can easily be completed by professionals or homeowners if they know the correct steps to take.

Before you begin, ensure your roof is free from debris and overhanging trees as this can block sunlight. After that, use a leaf blower to clear away any leaves or twigs from your rooftop.

4. Inspect Your Foundation

Inspection of your foundation is a critical component of home maintenance, helping prevent more serious issues down the line.

Foundation damage can cause your house to sink, crack or collapse entirely; thus it is advised that a foundation inspection be conducted at least annually.

Be wary of walls that bulge or lean. They could be an indicator that your foundation has shifted and put pressure on them, signaling shifts in shiftiness in the earth underneath your home.

Notice large zig-zag cracks running along the interior walls as an early indicator of foundation issues. Also, look out for floors or door frames with warped or slanted surfaces; this should serve as a warning sign.

3. Check Your Sump Pump

Maintaining regular sump pump maintenance will keep your home free from flooding, saving time and money in repairs if it breaks down during a storm. Preventative measures can save headaches in the future as well as costly repair bills in case your sump pumps break down unexpectedly.

Start by making sure your pump is positioned appropriately on a level surface so that water flows efficiently into it and doesn’t force itself out as quickly. This way, less work needs to be put in by your pump when trying to extract it!

As part of a proper maintenance routine, make sure the float sensor can move freely and switch on when required.

Make sure that the discharge pipe outside your house is directing water far enough away, otherwise too much could seep back in and cause your pump to continue operating incessantly.