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.

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.

by Jax Media Team Jax Media Team

DIY Vs Hiring a Professional Contractor – Pros and Cons

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.

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.

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.

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.

by Jax Media Team Jax Media Team

The Benefits of Hiring a Professional Contractor for Your Home Renovation

If you are thinking of renovating your own home or enlisting family and friends to help, hiring a professional contractor will make the process much smoother.

General contractors typically possess the knowledge and skill set to safely take on large projects, like demolishing walls and adding square footage. Furthermore, they may be able to detect potential design flaws that you might not be aware of.

Top Benefits You Gain from Hiring a Professional Contractor

Saves You Time

Hiring a professional contractor for your home renovation will save you time in the long run. They know where to find suppliers, have connections with specialists, and can get better prices on materials than what you’ll find at the lumber yard.

They also understand local and state building codes, so you can rest assured that your project adheres to legal requirements. Furthermore, an experienced contractor will keep you informed about any modifications they make on-site so there’s no need to worry about a delay in your home renovation plans.

Saves You Money

Hiring a professional contractor can help you save money. This is because they understand how to complete the job correctly the first time, which helps prevent costly errors and repairs in the long run.

Furthermore, contractors usually have connections with vendors who can save you money on materials and supplies. This helps stretch your budget further, making home renovation projects more budget-friendly.

Saves You from Unnecessary Stress

Hiring a professional contractor guarantees the work is done accurately and on schedule, eliminating any unnecessary repairs or replacements should something go awry during the project.

To locate a trustworthy contractor, begin by collecting referrals from friends and family. Then, request quotes from at least three contractors.

Saves You from Mistakes

Hiring a professional contractor for your home renovation is the ideal way to save time, money, and stress. They are capable of handling most aspects of the project — from framing to finishing off a basement.

A reliable general contractor will have connections with other professionals in your area, saving you the trouble of searching for a plumber, electrician, or arborist on your own.

A reliable contractor not only shows up on time, but they take the time to do things correctly. They should have a solid grasp of both local and international building codes as well as all necessary permits and inspections in hand.

 

Saves You from Legal Issues

Professional contractors are trained to do the job right the first time. Additionally, they understand code compliance and how to prevent accidents, injuries, and property damage.

They can save you money in the long run by getting it right the first time instead of having to redo work multiple times. Furthermore, their keen eye for detail enables them to identify potential issues before they escalate into costly repairs or replacements.

Getting the right contractor for your home renovation project can go a very long way. With an experienced contractor, the work will get done correctly the first time.