Category: General Article

In terms of home repair, nobody finds the process to be fun. It can feel like a chore, and some things get put off. Once thing you should never neglect to do is maintain your roof. Bathroom Renovations Your roof gives your home the best protection against the elements, so you have to do all you can to ensure your roof is in sound condition. This article can teach you how.

Though leaks may be the result of shingle issues, you may also need to inspect your roof’s foundation. If there is dry rot on your home’s sides, you may get water in your home. You should examine all potential entry points so that you can find the problem.

Safety is priority one when roof repair is involved. A quick way to seriously injure yourself is to try to work on your roof in wet conditions. Place a bucket under the leak until the weather clears up, then go have a look at your roof to see if you can repair the problem.

When a leak is getting fixed, you have to be sure that the job is done correctly the first time. So, you cannot stop inspecting once you find the initial issue. It is important that you determine the entire extent of the problem before beginning repairs.

Always wear rubber-soled boots when working on your roof. Even if it’s sunny and dry, these boots can grip well. Be very careful when making repairs on your roof since you could easily lose your balance and injure yourself.

As mentioned, it can be a real chore to maintain your roof. Nonetheless, it is necessary to care for your roof well to protect your home. Use the advice mentioned above to help you keep your roof in great shape. You will reap the benefits of your diligence.…

How a Home Energy Audit Can Benefit You

Getting a home energy audit done on your home lets you know where you stand in the scheme of conservation and your immediate impact on our environment. How else are you going to know if your windows leak like a sieve or if you have enough insulation to maximize your heating efficiency?

Home energy audits take a scientific approach to see how your home holds heat and air (or not). Energy audit professionals will measure your home’s air loss using a vacuum to pressurize your home and take measurements. This will tell them where you are losing most of your air in your home. This means they can tell you where your heating and cooling dollars are going and if they are efficient or not.

Are my windows efficient or do they need to be replaced?

Your home’s age is a primary factor in how efficient your windows are at keeping conditioned air in your home. Even windows that were made 35 years ago are less efficient than newer ones because the technology wasn’t available yet. This means your windows could be leaking air around the frame, panes and cracks. Those are dollars literally going out the windows! Your home audit specialist will be able to help you determine whether or not installing replacement windows makes sense for your home.

Does my home have enough insulation?

When homes are built, they start as one large building and are carved out by contractors who add electrical work, piping, dry wall and other elements to it. This creates voids or spaces throughout the entire home through which air flows continuously. The voids can be filled with appropriate R-value insulation to combat this air flow problem. If your house seems to quickly lose the heated and cooled air that gets pumped in, there may not be enough insulation in your house.

Unlike today, if your home was built more than 30 years ago, oil was dirt cheap. This meant that home builders didn’t need to think about insulation much because they knew that people would just turn up the thermostat to get their home to a comfortable temperature.

Plus, as building codes focus more on energy efficiency, the building regulations call for more insulation (or R-value which stands for “resistance to heat”) than in the past. The result is millions of homes with insufficient insulation to keep hot and cold air inside the home from going outside. This means you could be paying hundreds of extra dollars a year because your home builder didn’t need to put enough insulation in your home back then!

Efficient HVAC equipment

Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) makes each building comfortable to be in. The heaters, furnaces, water heaters and air conditioners do the work when we tell the thermometer how hot or cold we want a room to be. To get the maximum benefit from these tools, it’s important to make sure the equipment runs as efficiently as …

The Difference Between Aluminum Windows And Vinyl Windows

Wondering which will win in aluminum vs. vinyl windows battle? It isn’t surprising that some homeowners find themselves torn between using aluminum or vinyl for their windows. The fact is that almost of materials come with their own perks that make them ideal choices for a home. That being said, following are some of the factors detailing how aluminum and vinyl fare against each other.

1) Design

In terms of design, both materials definitely have extensive choices. Vinyl and aluminum are usual manufacture in varying shade of color as well as sizes, making it possible for homeowners to choose the perfect item to match their home. The main difference with these two is that aluminum may be painted over while vinyl usually retains its color with any additional paints.

2) Maintenance

Both vinyl and aluminum, are pretty low maintenance and usually has a very long life even when exposed to elements. However, the aluminum is clearly at a disadvantage here as it may require a repainting job if the color starts to fall off. On the other hand, vinyl manages to maintain its color and, therefore, can remain the same shade throughout its life.

3) Strength

With regards to strength, both aluminum and vinyl are pretty remarkable. Compared to wood which generally rots after some time, vinyl and aluminum are capable of withstanding more climate changes. However, aluminum is actually the window of choice for hurricane-frequented areas. Compared to vinyl, it can be 3 time stronger with less propensity to crack even after high pressure.

4) Insulation and Savings

For those who want to save money with their heat or air conditioning bills, going for vinyl would really help. This is because vinyl acts as wonderful insulation that can provide excellent room temperature without the aid of pricey utilities. On the other hand, aluminum is a definite loss at this point. This is because aluminum is a conductor and, therefore, does nothing in terms of the weather controlling and money saving in utilities.

5) Noise Reduction

Some people believe that vinyl windows perform better in terms of noise reduction. However, this isn’t the case at all and some studies have shown that aluminum fares better at this point.

6) Durability

In terms of longevity, both items are definitely at par with each other. The main difference falls on what damage the window develops overtime. For example, vinyl windows tend to get out of shape after being exposed to the weather while aluminum starts to lose their colorful luster. Hence, it really depends on how an individual would take up the maintenance of these window types.

Of course, aluminum versus vinyl windows showdown is not the only consideration that homeowners must make when deciding on the best window type for their home. The fact is that there are many options available in the market although most homeowners tend to choose between the two mentioned. This is because they are the best in the …

New Windows Installation for Your Older Home

If you bought an older home you know you have work to do. Your new home may have been a great deal, but you will be sinking money into it to improve it. You may need a new roof, new carpeting, new windows installation, new appliances, etc.

The easiest thing to do is to make a list of all of the home improvements you need to do on your older home. Once you make the list, put the most urgent items at the top and the least important items on the bottom of the list. Now check out what your budget is. You can do a little research on the cost of each of the items needed to be replaced or fixed. Now you can get ready to hire a professional to get the work done on your older home.

To go down your list, if your roof is leaking it is imperative that you get it fixed as soon as possible on your older home. You do not want water dripping through your roof, ceiling and onto your floor. Mold will form as well as the damp and cold air will seep into your home. If you let your roof go, you will end up spending more money on extra repair costs.

Next you may want to look into new windows installation in your older home. New windows can save you a lot of money as they are much more energy efficient than the windows made years ago.

You will want to hire a professional window installer to come and measure all of your windows or just those that you want replaced. He or she can give you an estimate on how much your windows will cost to replace. You can choose between different types of windows. There are windows that are sound proof.

You may choose a type of window that will shatter like a windshield if it breaks versus a window that will dangerously break with glass falling to the floor. Some windows claim to be self-cleaning while other windows simply push out for easy cleaning. The more benefits you have with your windows, the more costly they will become. You need to weigh out what is important to you and what is not. You may want to pay a little more for windows that practically clean themselves as you will not have to clean them every few months. Of course, with children and pets, you will end up cleaning your windows no matter what.

If all of the necessary items are in good condition you may move onto having carpet installed or some other cosmetic item to improve your home. Having new carpet installed by a professional into your home may uplift your spirits, give your home a fresh and clean look as well as brighten up your home.

Your older home can become the home of your dreams with a roof replacement, new windows installation, new carpeting, etc. …

Modern Double Glazing: How the New Design Bi-Fold Windows Will Improve Your Home

Double glazing is a technique that has been widely used by modern designers to reduce heat loss in buildings and impacts of noise pollution. This technology has been greatly advanced and led to the invention of the bi-fold windows and doors.

A bi-fold window or door has a series of about 2 to seven windows that are hinged to enable them fold onto themselves. These windows have incorporated the double glazing technique to create better functioning and more efficient window and door systems.

Bi-fold windows can totally open up a room. This is due to the fact that the window is a series of windows which can be opened, opening up a room and lighting it up effectively. Ventilation is improved when these windows are opened enabling ample air circulation in the building.

These windows and doors create space in a room. They allow more light in the room making it look more spacious. Bi-fold double glazed windows and doors have more versatility than normal double glazed ones. They are waterproof ensuring that no water gets into the building when it is raining.

Some may think that the several hinges might provide spaces for water to get into the building. However, the windows and doors are designed in a way that when they are closed, there are no spaces in between them to allow water to pass through. Energy efficiency is guaranteed. The double glazing technique ensures that very little heat is lost out of the building.

The air spaces between the glasses act as insulators preventing loss of heat via conduction and convection. A more efficient design has an E coating that ensures low emissivity rates. The coating reflects back long wave radiation from the surface of the building while at the same time transmitting shortwave radiation from the sun.

The bi-fold glasses are UV resistant. As much as they allow UV radiation to pass through, the intensities of this short wave radiation have no negative effect on them. This makes the windows and doors durable requiring very little maintenance. All one needs to do is clean the windows when they get dirty as dirt is an unavoidable environmental element. Accumulated dirt mostly corrodes glass. However, these doors and windows are corrosion resistant.

Installing BiFold Windows is easy. When they are bought, one is provided with a user manual that gives clear guidelines on how to fix them. These can also be easily removed in case of a problem.…

3 Easy Ways to Give Your Home a Facelift

Part of being a Northern Virginia homeowner is maintaining the property and making improvements from time to time. Putting a small investment into repairs will pay off in the long run by protecting the home from the elements and making it more comfortable for those living in it. The savvy homeowner will take the time to survey the home from time to time and look at items like windows, doorways, ceilings, floors and cabinets. Check for signs that the house is settling or is structurally unbalanced. When multiple projects need to be addressed, the homeowner should consult a group of Northern Virginia companies that work well together and can accomplish all projects in harmony.

Basic RepairSome projects are not difficult to do, but they require some spare time and know-how. Tasks like replacing rotted trim and other exterior wood, or interior trim and hardwood floors are much less expensive to have a Northern Virginia handyman service do the repair work than wait until it is completely destroyed and affecting other parts of the house. Replacement of kitchen cabinets, countertops, vinyl or ceramic tile and plumbing fixtures can be done rather than requiring a complete home remodel. At the change of seasons, a handyman repair service can also change out storm doors, clean out gutters and stormwater drainage areas around the home’s exterior. Minor electrical or plumbing repairs can be accomplished at the same time.

FoundationOne way a homeowner will know when there are foundation problems that need to be are by taking a home survey. Look inside at ceiling and wall joints for cracks, sagging and slopes. Look for cracks or buckling on the home’s exterior. This is especially noticeable in the masonry of Northern Virginia brick homes. When a home settles and the foundation is out of alignment, this may create a stair-step cracked appearance on the corners or sides. Large buckles where the home enters the ground, cracking in driveway or front walk, tree roots in the basement and uneven garage door entryways that prevent closure are other possible signs of trouble. Consult a contractor that specializes in foundation repair in Northern Virginia to do an inspection and fix any problems before they become too serious. A problem that is left undiagnosed and unrepaired may lead to other issues down the road.

WindowsWindows are an important indicator to the outside world of how well a home is being taken care of by the owner. Dirty or broken windows are an indication that it may be easy to break in without being noticed. Cracked or missing windowpanes can be easily fixed to prevent break-ins and to lower energy bills. All home windows eventually need to be replaced. Some signs that it’s time to replace rather than repair include cracked or broken glazing, warped wood and panes and widows that are stuck open or shut. Contractors that specialize in window repair in Northern Virginia can improve the look, feel and property …

Revitalize the Look of Your Home With an Exterior Makeover

Do you want to revitalize your home without spending a fortune on unnecessary trimmings and additions? Are you looking for affordable ways to improve the quality of your home? An exterior makeover will improve the appearance of your home in a practical and efficient way. You can replace or repair the windows, doors, siding, roofing, gutters, and porches of your home to give it an affordable and refreshing makeover.

Windows and Doors

Replacing your home’s windows and doors is one of the most efficient ways to improve the appearance of your home. Money might be wasted by small leaks or energy-deficient doors and windows, so consider switching them out for new ones. You can choose from a wide selection of window styles, including bay, double hung, casement, bow, and other specialty designs, to freshen up the look of your exterior. Not only will you improve your curbside appeal, but you will also start saving money with today’s modern, energy-efficient windows. If you want to replace your doors as well, consider a new color or style to add a subtle but individualized change. A new door can also help you save on heating and cooling bills.

Siding and Roofing

The siding and roofing of your house construct the shell that protects your home from nature. Both have a significant effect on the appearance of a house, but they are also a source of efficiency and shelter. If you want to make a drastic change, consider siding or roofing replacement. While this might be a more expensive exterior change, the investment could be well worth it. Your roof or siding might be damaged, allowing harm to come to the valuable interior of your home. By replacing your roof or siding, you will be making a worthy investment on both your home’s appearance and well-being.

Gutters

New gutters are an especially affordable means of making over your home. If your gutters are rusty, dented, or sagging, they could damage your home’s appearance. By simply replacing or repairing your gutters, you can refresh your home while better protecting it. Old gutters can allow water damage to foundations and interiors. To prevent this damage and subtly update your home, consider replacing your gutters.

Porches

If you want something completely new for your home, why not add a front or back porch? Not only will this bring something new to the look of your home, but it will also refresh the mood of it. You can take advantage of new opportunities to enjoy the outdoors and spend time with friends and family. This option also allows you to make an addition without the expenses of adding an interior room.

By following these tips for exterior makeovers, you can update the look of your home in no time. Whether you add some color or transform your home’s exterior, you’re sure to find one affordable and satisfying way to improve your appearance.…

Easy Custom Window Well Covers

You can purchase most size window well covers at your local home improvement store, most, but not all. In this article I will show you a quick and easy way to make your own covers, allowing plenty of light to enter the space, and allowing for the all important emergency exit.

Through the years I have found that making a template saves money in the long run. I strongly suggest you make yourself a cardboard template of the window well. You can square the shape off, as if it was a rectangle or square when you order the piece of Plexiglas.

It’s been my experience that the local big box stores don’t carry sheets of Plexiglas, so you will need to call your local glass company and order the piece of Plexiglas or Lexan, you will need for this project. Be sure to order A�” thick Plexiglas or Lexan, at a minimum. The difference in price will be substantial, with Lexan being shatter resistant. I went the Plexiglas route, but you will have to decide for yourself. Cutting the Plexiglas is pretty simple and straight forward. Install a plywood blade in your circular saw and a fine tooth blade in your jig saw. If you are not comfortable cutting it yourself, most glass companies will do it for you, for an additional charge. If you have them cut the Plexiglas, remember to bring your template for them to use, and don’t forget to ask for the cutoff pieces. You can use them for smaller fun projects like coasters and picture frames.

Next measure the distance across the back of the window well, the straight edge, against the house and buy a length of angled strut, to fit. You know the kind I am talking about, the metal angle that is commonly used to hang garage door tracks and openers. Anchor that angle to the back wall, so it will serve as a place for the new cover to sit on, making sure the top of it is level with the top of the window well. If the front edge is straight you can do the same to it. If you have a continuous curve then cut 2 or 3 pieces of strut about 1″ to 2″ long and attach them to the inside of the front edge, spacing them evenly, making sure you have at least 1 solid hole in each one.

Lay the newly cut Plexiglas cover on your new framed opening, carefully centering it into position, and making sure to keep it firmly against the back wall. You can drill down through the Plexiglas into the front edge angled strut a 5/16″ drill bit. When you’re done drilling drop a A�” clevis pin into each hole. You can secure each pin in place by slipping the locking clips into a hole in the clevis pin, from the inside. Now place a liberal bead of silicone (100% pure silicone) along the back edge and …

Need to Replace Your Windows? Consider Custom Windows

With Custom windows you become the designer with endless possibilities to choose from. You can custom design your windows to blend in with your homes existing architectural design. You have the freedom to design your wall space by grouping windows and doors to create dramatic effects or a quiet understated elegance.

Introduce light into your home in unusual ways with unique stained glass patterns and grill styles that will create lovely intricate patterns of light and shadows on your walls and ceilings.

Custom specialty windows are designed to excel way beyond conventional window and door treatments. You can choose from a variety of window styles including specialty shaped windows to create a stunning and beautiful accent window that will delight your relatives and guests. Don’t feel you have to be limited to rectangles or squares. You can choose curved or unusual angle shapes to create accent windows at the top of your stairs or in an entryway that can be a focal point for your home. Stained or patterned glass can complete the look in your choice of colors to suit your personal taste.

With the right window designs your outdoor scenery can be the focus of the room. Turn a large window into something visually stunning by grouping smaller windows around it and choosing dramatic window treatments to offset the view. Custom windows are the best value for the long term because installation is quicker with minimal changes needed to the inside and outside of your home.

Custom designed windows are made to your specifications, designed to fit precisely, ensuring energy efficiency. Using professional installers gives you that peace of mind that comes with knowing your custom windows will be properly installed.…

Driving In Adverse Conditions

You need to prepare for the unexpected when you’re out on the road, especially when driving in adverse conditions. With extreme weather becoming more frequent, it’s more important than ever to make sure your car is ready to weather everything from blizzards to heat waves and torrential downpours, and that you can respond calmly and promptly in the event of a breakdown.

Whether you’re driving on icy roads or your visibility is restricted by fog, driving slowly and carefully is essential – not only to protect yourself, your passengers and other people out on the road, but also to make sure you’re driving within the law. It is a legal requirement to use headlights in reduced visibility, and being aware of the extended braking times in wet weather could mean the difference between life and death.

At the opposite end of the spectrum, the scorching summer heat can also prove hazardous to drivers, especially those who are not used to warmer climates. Drowsiness brought on by heat can be as dangerous as other forms of tiredness and distractions behind the wheel, so it’s vital to keep your car well ventilated by winding down windows, and taking breaks in shaded areas if you feel the heat getting to you.

Just as drivers need to be aware of wet and slippery roads in the winter, extreme heat can similarly affect the surface of soft roads by melting the tarmac, which can cause a bumpy and uneven ride and even affect your steering and braking.

If you have an inkling of the weather before you set off, it’s essential to carry out a pre-journey check to make sure your vehicle is prepared. This includes making sure all systems are operating efficiently – everything from your lights to your windscreen wipers and water and oil levels – as well as kitting your car out with everything you’ll need in the event that you become stuck out on the road, including your trusty mobile phone, a torch and first aid kit.

While we don’t always have the luxury of knowing the weather in advance, some of these items can be kept in easily accessible places inside your car at all times. At the very least, keep an accident action pack within easy reach that contains the numbers for emergency services, your insurance company and local garages, if you need mobile glaziers to carry out services such as windscreen replacement.…