Sunday, January 29, 2017

Interior Change

My home's interior needed a change! I called my local interior remodeling Fairfax VA and they did a great job. My home is finally the way I've always wanted it.

Clean My Dryer Vent, Please

My fireplace needed cleaning because I don't use it often, and it occurred to me that there was probably a lot of dust in there. I called my local dryer vent cleaning Hawaii to come clean for me and they agreed - it was a good thing I called! I recommend their services, they did an excellent job.

Commercial Fencing

After completing a project in commercial roofing in Central New Jersey, we were excited to start improving our commercial property in a many different ways! We decide to continue to focus on the exterior of our building before moving onto the interior. We needed a new fence and I was told my a fellow business owner to call Commercial Fencing Meridian MS - they did great work! You should give them a call too.

Colorful Landscaping

My front yard was really boring - just lawn, no flowers! I called my local landscape design Prides Crossing MA to come work their magic. My yard is so colorful now! I love their work.

Friday, January 27, 2017

Fence Tips to Keep in Mind

We just came across some great tips for your fence and wanted to share them with you. We hope you will use these tips when thinking about your landscaping this spring. These tips were provided by a Franklin TN fence service.
  • Check for underground utility lines before starting your next fencing project!
  • Updating your landscaping? A new fence style can help to capture the look and style you're trying to achieve!
  • Consider the purpose of your fence, style of your home and budget when deciding on which fencing material will work best for you!
  • Interested in a budget friendly fencing option! A chain link fence is a great way to go!

Wednesday, January 25, 2017

Gable vs Hip Roofs

There are so many different types of roofs that, as a homeowner, it's easy to get confused. Luckily, we've got experts in roofing from Waukesha WI on our side! Here's some info they gave us on two different roof styles.

Gable Roofs are also called "pitched" or "peaked" and are shaped like triangles. Gable roofs are great in snowy areas, as the snow more easily slides off; but they're less ideal in high-wind areas, as winds can actually peel materials away from the roof or even detach the roof from the walls if there is too much overhang!

All four sides of a Hip Roof are sloped, and meet at the top in a ridge. They are amongst the most stable type of roof, making them great for both snowy and windy areas, but they are more prone to water leaks due to the additional seams.

Tuesday, January 24, 2017

Three Good Reasons for Annual Chimney Inspections No Matter How Often You Use It



Chimneys can be the unsung heroes of our homes. They can go completely unnoticed while they provide us with a wonderful source of heat by properly ventilating the fireplace(s) located in the family room, living room, or other area in our house. The fact that they exist "out of sight, out of mind" for the most part is something that can lead to safety problems however. We need to remember that chimneys are a significant part of our home that does require attention. Even homeowners that don't use their fireplace regularly should have an annual chimney inspection and chimney cleaning in Los Angeles performed by a professional service. If you do use your chimney as a regular heat source, however, this service becomes even more important because the materials in them will wear down more quickly and require more frequent attention. The following are three very good reasons to have a chimney inspection performed regularly in either case.
  1. Safety – We've already briefly alluded to this reason, but safety should be at the forefront of your reasoning for scheduling a chimney inspection. Creosote can build up in your chimney over time causing a fire hazard and even forming dangerous levels of carbon monoxide sometimes. It can also be problematic for a variety of poor health conditions. A regular chimney inspection can keep an eye on creosote levels and make sure this never becomes a health hazard in any way for you and your family.
  2. Cracks – Chimney foundations are just as susceptible to cracking as any other foundation. Over time, they just start to wear down and there really isn't anything much you can do about it... except have a regular inspection maintain the foundation, so you can get a handle on any cracks before they become major problems.
  3. Weather – Water has been a deceptively damaging problem for centuries... just ask Noah. Water damage, in particular, can be damaging to a chimney if left unattended for a long period of time. Annual inspections can make sure water damage is addressed way before it becomes anything terribly cost prohibitive.

Monday, January 23, 2017

Rekey or Replace?

I recently started renting out an additional property and my second tenant just moved in. I didn't want the old tenant to be able to have access to the house, so I knew I wanted to change the locks - who knew if the first tenant made copies of the key that they didn't give back to me? But while doing some research, I found that rekeying is also an option! Check out what this professional locksmith in Estero FL had to tell me about rekeying...

Rekeying is the process of replacing the pins and springs within the lock cylinder with new ones that work with a completely different key. Unless your lock is actually completely busted, rekeying can be an easier, fast solution to get a similar result!

I'll be keeping this in mind as I move forward in my new role as a landlord!

Sunday, January 22, 2017

Common Chiller Issues

This post is more commercial based. While this may not apply to most readers, we think it is important to share a wide spread of information. Here are common mistake people make with chillers.

  • Too much water. Some people think that increasing water flow to chillers will help keep it cool and working efficiently. However, that isn't the case and too much water will actually decrease efficiency.
  • Ignoring maintenance. This is usually just a case of people being lazy. They think that they can skate by without maintenance.
If you have any questions or need Carrier screw parts, reach out to a professional.

Home Inspection Tips

If you're thinking of selling your home, then you'll likely be interested in this. Here are some home inspection tips for home sellers. These were provided by home inspectors in New Canaan CT.

  • Don't let a home inspection leave you clueless! Ask as many questions as you'd like, they're there to help.
  • Typically, a home inspection takes 2-3 hours but that also depends on the structure of the home. If you're wondering how long it will take, give a call to a home inspector with som detail of your home and they can give you an idea
  • 2 things you can do on your own before trying to sell your home are landscaping and painting!
  • Something that a reputable home inspector will be able to do is evaluate the current safety level of your home. Depending on their findings, they may recommend additional services such as a locksmith in Estero FL

Pest Control Tips

Hopefully the weather starts to warm up soon. However, we aren't the only ones excited for the weather. With warmer weather will come more pests bothering us. Here are some helpful pest control tips provided by a Jensen Beach FL exterminator.

Fix leaky pipes. Pipes are common entry points for pests, who are able to find their way inside through any small cracks. Seal or replace any leaky pipes in the walls or under sinks and air out the dampened area. 

Naturally repel spiders.  You can create your own spider repellant spray from natural ingredients found around the house. All you have to do is fill a spray bottle with water and mix in some peppermint oil and you have a natural solution to your spider problem!
Proactively rid your home of ants. Ants usually start to show up inside the home in the early spring, and can arrive in large quantities. To rid your home of ants, try placing ant baits in kitchens and bathrooms, as those rooms tend to be the most attractive to ants. 

Landscape Ideas

Thinking of making some changes to your landscape but not sure what to do? Hopefully we can help. Here are some ideas of how to change up your landscape. These were provided by an expert in Caledon ON landscape services. Let us know what you think.


  • Dress your mailbox décor. Decorate your mailbox to create a welcoming feeling for guests approaching your home. Whether you chose balloons for a birthday party, garland for Christmas, or pumpkins for Halloween, mailbox decorations are appropriate for all celebrations!
  • Use statues. Consider placing holiday themed statues or figurines, like lawn gnomes, in your gardens. While a few Cupid statues may be perfect Valentine’s Day décor, try not to go overboard and clutter your yard.
  • Add privacy. Adding a wall around your outdoor patio will help create a sense of privacy for you and your guests while providing the perfect place to plant new flowers and vines. A short stone wall may be just what you need to facilitate an outdoorsy but sophisticated atmosphere.

Exterior Painting

Considering painting the outside of your home? Here are some tips to help paint your siding in Chadds Ford PA.

  • The best time of the year to paint the outside of your home is the fall! The temperature is perfect and it isn't humid.
  • Tip of the day: Paint should only be applied to a dry surface. Always wait at least a full day after it rains to paint the outside of your home!
  • Paint has a harder time drying when the weather drops from really high to much lower. Try to paint when the weather will stay around the same temperature for 24 hours!

Painting Tips

Here are some painting tips provided by an expert in fascia painting in La Mirada CA.

  • You can't paint anything without a brush! Make sure you pick out a good brush, or two. Putting the money towards a good brush will be a great investment for more paint projects to come!
  • Don't worry about putting too much paint on your brush, it's better to have more than less when painting a trim!
  • Painting the trim around your door? Before you even touch a paint brush, grab a duster! Make sure the trim is clean and dust free before tackling interior painting in McLean VA.

More Fence Info

Our last set of fence tips got a great response so we thought we'd share some more. Here is some helpful info if you're thinking about building a fence. There were provided by an expert in aluminum fences in Hopatcong NJ.

  • When installing a fence for security, select a tall design with spiky tops and a smooth outer fence to deter climbers
  • If you have a swimming pool, you need to have a fence! Check your local codes to determine your area's specific guidelines
  • Remember when installing a fence that the nice side of your fence should face your neighbors or street!

Tips Before Building a Fence

We don't spend too much time talk about fences on here but think it's an important part of a property. A fence is often the first thing people notice when they approach a property, so it's important to make sure it's working effectively and looks great. Thinking of building a fence, here are some tips that were provided by an expert in fencing in Minneapolis MN.

  • Be sure to contact your municipality's zoning department before beginning a fencing project to ensure you follow local codes.
  • Be considerate of neighbors when adding a fence to your property! If it's something that may affect them, check in with them before starting your project

Plumbing Repair Tips: How to Fix A Dripping Faucet

You may not notice the constant dripping during the day, but once night falls, and your house is no longer bustling with noise, the water steadily leaking from your sink faucet is impossible to ignore. Although annoyance is reason enough to fix a dripping faucet, saving money and helping the earth are even better reasons to eliminate a leak. Fortunately, fixing a dripping spout is usually an easy DIY plumbing repair that simply requires replacing the faucet's seats and springs. Here are some helpful tips provided by Hopatcong NJ plumbers.
What You'll Need
  • Allen Wrench
  • Needle-Nose Pliers
  • Screwdriver
  • Tongue-and-Grove Pliers
  • Replacement Seats and Springs
DIY Directions
  • Before starting, shut off the hot and cold water supply valves which are located underneath your sink. Once they are in the off position, turn on your faucet to drain any remaining water left in the water line.
  • Remove the screw cover from the faucet's handle. Next, using either an Allen wrench or a screwdriver, loosen the screw and completely take off the handle.
  • With your needle-nose pliers unscrew the adjusting ring and carefully lift it off.
  • Next, cautiously remove the dome-shaped cap, which is covering the faucet's seats and springs. To do this use your tongue-and-grove pliers. A build-up of mineral deposits might make the removal a bit challenging. If you are having a hard time take a rag and soak it in vinegar. Wrap the vinegar rag around the cap and let it sit for a few minutes before loosening and removing the cap with your pliers.
  • Once the dome-shaped cap is removed, you'll see a metal stem. Pull that and the metal ball attached to it out. Underneath, you'll find the seats and springs that need replacing. The seat is the small circular part and beneath that is the spring, which you won't be able to see until you pull both parts out.
  • To remove both the hot and cold water seats and springs, simply insert your Allen wrench into the small hole located in the center of the seats. Slightly tilt the wrench to hook both the seat and spring before slowly pulling the Allen wrench up with the parts hanging from the tool.
  • Now grab your new set of seats and springs and place them in the holes your old ones once occupied. Threading one set at a time onto your Allen wrench and carefully sliding them into place is the easiest way to replace the parts.
  • Once the new seats and springs are in place, replace the parts of the faucet you removed to reach them. Now you can turn the water valve back on and test your handy work. If the drip has stopped the job was a success; however, if the leak is still present it's time to call a professional plumber.

If you're experiencing a more serious plumbing leak and don't know how to stop it, contact your local Greendale WI plumbing repair expert.

3 Reasons Why Spring is the Best Time for a Chimney Inspection

For many homeowners, the fireplace is their favorite part of their home. It has provided warmth and comfort on the coldest of days. But once spring arrives, many people sweep up the wood remains, and it gets ignored until the leaves start to change in the fall. If you have a fireplace in your home, there are several reasons why you should have your chimney inspection done in the spring.
  1. Most damage to chimneys happens in the winter. The cycle of heating up, and then cooling down to below freezing temperatures can damage bricks and mortar. Any rain or snow that dripped down in the fixture may have frozen and created cracks or other issues too. These types of issues really need to be repaired when the temperature is warmer, so if you discover these issues in the fall, they may be harder to fix. Having an inspection in the spring means you will have plenty of time to schedule a repair, if necessary.
  2. Creosote doesn't continue to accumulate in the summer. Creosote only builds up when you're burning wood, so any time after your last fire, you can have the chimney cleaned and it will stay clean. Creosote build-up puts your home at risk for a chimney fire, so it is important to get it cleaned out at least once a year, but it's perfectly acceptable to do it in the spring. Sometimes creosote can emit an unpleasant odor in the hot summer months, which is another reason why a spring cleaning is a better choice.
  3. Chimney services get very busy in the fall. If you wait until the weather turns cold, and you're one of those people who get really excited for the first fire of the year, you might be disappointed. Since most people wait until fall to call for their inspection and cleaning, there is a longer wait time for service. By getting it done in the spring, your chimney will be ready to go on the first cold night.

If you have any quesitons or are interested in chimney repair in Wrightsville Beach NC, reach out to a professional.

Friday, January 13, 2017

Commercial Mechanic

If you're in need of a commercial mechanic then you should call your local commercial mechanical contractor in Lansing MI. I have their number on speed dial! They are incredibly reliable.

Commercial Roofing

Need new roofing for your building? Call your local commercial roofing Delaware County PA for excellent and efficient service. You're building will never be better.

Commercial Construction

If you're a business owner looking to make some changes to your building, I know just who to call! Reach out to commercial construction Boston MA, you won't be sorry. They offer great service and are a pleasure to work with.

Injured Back

I injured while working my job of commercial construction in Boston MA. I should have listened to the little voice in the back of my mind saying "that box may be too heavy for you to pick up and carry down a light of stairs, Linda. Maybe you should ask for help."

After I injured my back, I did have to ask for help. I called my local physical therapy in Pasadena CA and I already feel so much better after just two sessions. They're great!

Remodel my Home

It's fun to switch things up every now and then! Specifically your home!! We suggest you call your local Remodeling in Newton MA if you're looking for a change. They have great suggestions too if you need some help cementing your ideas.

Loading Dock

Looking for a new sturdy loading dock? Call your local loading dock equipment in Gulfport MS for the best quality out there. They are a professional company that does all they can to help so feel free to ask as many questions as you wish.

Winter Roof Safety

While this may not apply to all of our readers, this is an important topic so wanted to talk about it. If you are a commercial property owner, it is really important to make sure your roof is in good shape. As we're in the middle of winter and the weather can be unpredictable, it's more important now than ever. If not properly designed and constructed, snow can pile on your roof. All of that snow adds additional weight which can be damaging to your roof. The last thing you want as a property owner is for a tenant or occupant to get injured. If you have any questions about roof safety or roof specifications in Key West FL, don't wait to reach out to a professional.

Sciatica Issue

I wanted to take some time to share a story about my friend.

He is an avid runner but recently was experiencing some sharp pains. They stretched from his back down to one of his knees. A normal person would just take a break from running and try to rest up. However, my friend didn't do that and just thought it would eventually go away. After a week he finally stopped running but the pain was still there. We were finally able to talk him into going to a Glen Burnie MD chiropractor and he ended up having sciatic. Please people if you're in pain don't push it.

New Security Tech

I was reading about some new security technology set to come out in 2017 and thought it was so cool so I wanted to share it with you guys. Alarm.com is set to come out with a drone security system. The drones would sync up to a security system in a building or home so once motion is detected in a certain area or an alarm is set off, the drone will autonomously fly to monitor the area. Video from the drone can be streamed on a mobile device. How cool is this?? Definitely something to look out for.

If you have any questions about security systems in Yonkers NY, don't hesitate to reach out to a professional.

Remodeling Your Kitchen

Have you been thinking about remodeling your kitchen?. It can seem like a daunting task if you have kids in the house. How are you expected to feed a family when you don't have access to your kitchen. We want to help ease this stress. Here are some tips that were provided to us by some remodelers that are experts in hardwood flooring in Norfolk VA.
  • Remodeling your kitchen with young kids in the house? Make sure you have a favorite restaurant because cooking will be minimal!
  • Remodeling your kitchen? Set up a small fridge, small camping electrical cooktop and microwave in the dining room so you can still cook some meals!
  • If you're remodeling with children in the home, it's best to plan ahead! Make sure you have a set budget and time frame.

Tips For Starting a Remodeling Project

We hope everyone has been doing well. We'd like to spend some time talking about remodeling your home. Hopefully this is the year that you are finally able to have the work done that you've been dreaming of. We want to help make that process as smooth as possible. We wanted to share some tips that make planning out the process and starting easier. These tips were provided by custom home builders in Nashville TN.
  • Make sure to have a style picked out before hiring someone to re-do your kitchen! It doesn't have to be a common style - you could always make up your own!
  • Determine your number one goal when redesigning your kitchen so you stay on the right track!
  • Setting a money budget is always important when remodeling, but setting a time budget is also just as important.

Sunday, January 8, 2017

Bedroom/Bathroom Remodeling Ideas

We love when we get new ideas about remodeling. Here are some ideas for bedroom and bathroom remodeling in Waukesha WI.

  • Use grey, brown, and white colors in your bedroom to create a relaxed feel.
  • Tip of the Day! For a contemporary look, extend your headboard so it also frames your nightstand.
  • Bathrooms don't always need to be a neutral shade. Paint an accent wall or add colorful tiles to add to add some flair.

Fence Tips

We don't spend a lot of time talking about fences on here. That doesn't mean that we don't care them though. Here are some fence reminders and tips provided by an expert in fencing in Bluffton IN.

  • Be sure to contact your municipality's zoning department before beginning a fencing project to ensure you follow local codes.
  • Be considerate of neighbors when adding a fence to your property! If it's something that may affect them, check in with them before starting your project.
  • When installing a fence for security, select a tall design with spiky tops and a smooth outer face to deter climbers.
  • If you have a swimming pool, you need to have a fence! Check your local codes to determine your area's specific guidelines.

Leaking Ceiling?

If you have a leaking ceiling, the first step you need to take is diagnosing the source of the leak. While a leak in the roof is common it isn't always the case. Here are a few tips to help you find the source of the leak.

- When does the ceiling leak? Is it only while it rains? If your roof leaks only when it rains outside, it is likely that the leaking ceiling is caused by a leak in the roof. It might also be a problem with your gutters in Richmond VA. Otherwise, if the ceiling leaks no matter the weather, it is likely caused by another issue.

- Does the water look clean on dirty? If the water appears dirty or stains your ceiling, it is likely coming from a leak in the roof. If the water seems clean, there is a good chance it is coming from the plumbing.

If you have any questions about the health of your roof, don't hesitate to reach out to an expert in commercial roofing in St. Johns MI.

Why You Need To Maintain Your Roof

It is really important to make sure your roof is in good shape. One reason is that leaking ceilings are often accompanied by water stains. You've probably seen water stains before, they look like coffee colored circles around a leak. While a water stain on your ceiling does not always indicate an active leak, finding the fixing the leak as soon as you notice a water stain could help prevent more serious damage.
 
The biggest threat that a leaking ceiling presents to a property owner is affecting the structural integrity of the ceiling and putting tenants in danger. As water continues to leak and build up in the drywall of the ceiling, the extra weight added by the moisture can cause the ceiling to collapse. The possibility of something this dangerous should alarm owners to take action against leaking ceilings.


The last thing you want is to put the occupants of the building in danger. If you have any questions, reach out to a Jackson MI commercial roofing expert.


Keeping your Gutters Working Great throughout Winter

While you may not think about your gutters much during winter, it is important to make sure they will survive the cold and any snow. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
  • Install Gutter Guards: It is important to make sure that no debris is stuck in your gutters. Guards are a great way to keep them clear or debris and snow, which can damage the gutters. Snow buildup can put a lot of extra weight and stress on your gutters in Mechanicsville VA.
  • Heating Cables: You may not even know these exist but can be very helpful. Run a heating cable through your gutters to help melt snow and make sure that they aren't getting clogged or damaged.

Is A New Patio Right For You?


Are you looking for a way to improve your home but aren't sure what you want to do? Consider adding a patio! Patios can enhance the appeal of your yard while giving you a great place to relax outside. Now is a great time to start planning out a patio so you can have the plans finalized and begin building when it starts to get warm and you have your brand new patio to enjoy in spring. It is important to make sure that your patios in Fort Worth TX are installed by a professional. 

Do You Need A High-Quality Plumbing Service For Your Home?



Sometimes we may take our plumbing granted. When we need a drink of water or we need to wash the dishes, we turn on the faucet and the water comes out. We can flush the toilet and take a shower with no problems. However, homeowners begin to worry when they begin to see problems with their pipes and their drains. Some problems you may be able to fix on your own, but some problems will require you to contact a plumbing service.

Drip, Drip

Some homeowners may get used to their faucets and the slow-drip. However, if you let this go on and ignore the problem, you will begin to realize that you are wasting water. You will also realize that you are spending extra money on your water bills because of the constantly dripping faucet.

A small leak can actually be part of a bigger problem that will need to be fixed quickly. You may be able to fix the leaky faucet on your own. If you are concerned with the cause of the leaky faucet, you may need to call someone for plumbing repair in Birmingham AL to come and look at it for you. 

Your Toilet Is Giving You Trouble

Sometimes we have trouble with our toilet; they get backed up sometimes. Sometimes your sewage lines will become stopped up. This is not always a big issue because sometimes the blockage is not that significant. Sometimes all you need to do is pull out your plunger to get rid of the blockage.

If you are constantly dealing with a backed up toilet or the water in your toilet is not filling high enough or if it is filling too high, you will find that the problems can be really serious.
If you smell unusual odors or if you hear unfamiliar sounds coming from your toilet, you may have a problem with your sewer and the drainage. If you think that your sewer line is the problem, you should definitely call a plumber.   

Stepping In Water

Have you ever walked into a room in your house and found that the floor was wet? If so, you should not overlook how much damage a leak can cause to your home. You do not want to find that mold finds its way into your home. You also do not want any leaks or drips to get into the walls and various floors in your home. If you have to constantly use a mop or towels to get the water off the floor or if you have no idea where it is coming from, you should call a plumbing service.

If you have tried to repair your plumbing problems on your own and you have not had much success contact your local Glencoe IL plumbers today!