Snow, sleet, and ice cause well-known winter travel hazards. Slick road conditions require serious driving skills and cause far too many accidents, some with very serious consequences. Severe storms bring school closures that disrupt daily schedules and leave parents scrambling for child care. Everyone who lives in a winter climate learns to handle these situations. However, how many of these individuals think about their roofs?

Get the Right Equipment

Most pictures of snow-covered roofs evoke romantic thoughts of winter holidays or scenes of neighborhood children building snowmen. Seldom do thoughts focus on the potential danger of roof collapses from the excessive weight of snow accumulation. Luckily, there are ways to determine how much snow load on roof you can tolerate. Consider using a snow load calculator that provides a realistic weight estimate to guide your decision about possible snow removal from your roof. There are even devices that measure roof surface deflection to warn of impending damage or collapse. They may even include communications features that send text or email messages.

Know How Much Snow Is Too Much for Your Roof

You’ve become aware of the importance of monitoring winter roof accumulation. Now you need to know when your roof is nearing its limit. Luckily, high school science can help you out. A couple of snow weight calculations should yield a decent estimate of what your roof might be bearing. Then you need to know if you have too much roof snow. Unfortunately, some variables can make it difficult to calculate an accurate snow weight. For example, the water content of snow varies widely, compromising the weight calculation. Your roof design and construction determine the maximum roof load, but rarely is that figure known. However, these calculations should produce sufficient estimates that can give you guidance to make a responsible decision on whether you should have the snow removed from your roof.

If you live in a winter locale, you likely already know how to install snow tires, shovel the driveway and sidewalks, and adjust automobile antifreeze. Learning how to monitor the snow accumulation on your roof can help you manage another critical concern.…

Are you considering an addition to your house? Or maybe you want to put up a fence? The is something that you should take into consideration before you move beyond the idea of changes like these, your property line. Unless you have a clear idea of where the edge of your property is, you should consider getting your land surveyed.

Why Should I Have A Land Survey Done?

It may not be something that you have considered before but having a survey on hand is often required before you can even get a building permit. And if you have an HOA they might require a survey to put up a fence. However, there are many reasons you should consider getting a survey done before you move forward with big changes. In some places, there are laws in place that govern how close to a property line you are allowed to have a building as well as other laws. Having a survey done will often help you learn about the regulations and avoid the need to remove changes after the fact.

How Do I Get A Land Survey?

Hiring a professional land surveyor Hernando County FL is a good idea as they will have the knowledge and experience to help you be prepared to move forward with your renovation plans. With their help, you will know what the boundaries to your property are and prevent any delays in getting building permits or gaining approval for changes by your HOA. They can also help you be aware of things that you may not have known beforehand such as buried lines, pipes or anything else that could derail your plans. Often delays that are caught later create highly costly delays or repairs.

With a land survey in hand, you are one step closer to building that long wished for addition or getting a fence in place to contain your new puppy.…

Going green is a noble ambition that can sometimes seem daunting. You’ve replaced the windows in your home, bought energy efficient appliances and even had insulation blown into your attic. Maybe you’ve even invested in solar panels, but still wonder if there’s more. The good news is, there are always more ways to conserve.

Tankless Water Heater

Tankless units are not new to the rest of the world, but are becoming more common in the United States. At first, these units were prohibitively expensive, but have slowly come down in price as new advancements are released. Both gas and electric units come with a slew of benefits such as conserving water and energy, which in turn leads to money savings. A quick internet search can lead to information on tankless water heaters Pleasanton CA options, as well as the pros and cons of installing one.

Smart Sprinkler Control Box

Some of the more common sprinkler control box manufacturers now make smart control boxes. These units are quick and easy to install and can even be controlled remotely from your smartphone. Some of the smart features include rain sensors and flow rate monitoring, which both help prevent water waste. Many of the local water companies and sprinkler manufacturers offer rebates to sweeten the deal. Save money, save water, win-win.

LED Light Bulbs

This is perhaps the most inexpensive option, but could be pricey upfront depending on how many light fixtures you have and whether you need specialty bulbs. LED light bulbs come in both warm and cool spectrums just like standard incandescent light bulbs, however, these bulbs last a considerably longer amount of time. Over the lifetime of these light bulbs, you could save up to half the energy usage of a standard incandescent.

While the cost may prohibitive at first, in the lifetime of the product you will save money overall. Money isn’t the only thing you’ll save, though, you’ll also conserve energy.…

septic tank orlando fl

When you dream about your first home, a septic tank probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind. But it’s a necessary part of home ownership, especially in non-urban areas. That doesn’t mean learning about and investing in a septic tank has to be daunting. Here are three interesting facts to get you started on your journey to septic system ownership.

1. They’re Environmentally Friendly

A septic tank sits within a drain field. When waste and water from your plumbing goes into the tank, the waste separates from the water. As the water flows out from the tank and into the drain field, any remaining waste is filtered out and the water returns to the soil. There, the soil continues to remove bacteria, returning potable water to the natural reservoirs beneath your home. It’s an efficient water recycling system that benefits the ecosystem of your property.

2. They’re Easy to Install

Some places are trickier than others when installing a septic tank. Septic tank Orlando, FL, for example, is closer to sea level and depending on where you are, you can only dig down so deep until you hit water. But that doesn’t mean setting up a septic system is impossible. No matter where you are, there are professionals who know how to tailor a system to your home.

3. They’re Cost Efficient

Once your tank is installed, the only major cost to consider is intermittent pumping. As waste builds up in your tank, it’s important to have it pumped regularly to reduce the risk of damage or clogging. However, unlike the ongoing fees connected with urban sewer lines, septic systems require no fees beyond annual maintenance.

Septic tanks don’t have to detract from your experience as a homeowner. With a little bit of knowledge, you’ll be surprised how easy it is to get your system up and running.…

If you’re renovating, you know how expensive a remodel can cost. It’s nice to save money, but be safe. There are some things best left to professionals.

Big Appliances

When it comes to things like ovens, furnaces and hot water heaters, you should proceed with caution. These sorts of appliances are finicky, with very specific wiring and heating elements. Unless you work in an industry that professionally installs these items, leave them alone.

• Anything that involves tapping into the gas line should not be attempted at home. This includes ovens and stoves. Call a professional or if you live in the area, check out oven installation Gaithersburg MD.
• Your HVAC system is a complex operation of wires, pipes and electricity. There’s a reason that a license is required to work on these; they’re intricate! If you have an HVAC problem, call a specialist.
• Electrical issues like installing light fixtures can be easy enough to DIY, but for more serious problems, do not try fixing them on your own. You are running the risk of serious injury, death and a potential fire.

Drywall and Sheetrock

You want that new wall put in the living room to add a guest room, so why not take it on yourself? You’ve watched the YouTube videos! Well, the truth is that it is more difficult than it looks, and can quickly become a hot mess.

• A steady, experienced hand makes all the difference in the world. Unless you are confident in your ability to make straight lines, hire someone to do them for you.
• Drywall slabs can be heavy, unwieldy and dangerous. Moving them from point A to B can be cumbersome and frustrating if you don’t have enough hands or the right tools.
• Labor for this kind of work averages between $40 and $60 an hour. Decide if it’s worth your time to DIY or your money to have it done right.

Exercise caution and common sense when remodeling. You don’t want to sink a bunch of time into a product you’re unhappy with, so know when to hire out a service.…

The kitchen is often the center point of the home. And, if you’re like most people in America, a lot of your time around the home is spent in that area, especially when entertaining family and guests. Nowadays, the kitchen has become the “situation room” for everything from meals to make-shift office space while conducting business transactions or filling work assignments on a laptop.

Start With Something Easy

Lighting can be very important, but when remodeling your kitchen, it is one of the easiest and lowest cost areas to tackle. When replacing light fixtures, the energy-saving opportunities include using compact fluorescent lamps. CFLs can be used for all three categories of kitchen lighting: general, task and accent.

Remodel Only What You Need To

A face-lift for cabinets is an outstanding cost-saving opportunity for kitchen repairs. Do you really need to remodel your entire kitchen? Probably, not. Unless your kitchen looks like a 1980’s sitcom, then it’s likely not necessary to replace everything. According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association, a not-for-profit association that supports the industry, costs for a kitchen remodel can reach as high as $57,000. By choosing to do a face-lift and work with a cabinetry contractor Tampa to replace only the cabinet doors, handles and hardware, you should significantly reduce that cost.

Work To Save Money

Choosing to remodel your kitchen does not mean you have to break the bank. In fact, most repairs can be done in ways that are save you money. Whether you’re repairing a major appliance or completing a face-lift for kitchen cabinets, you can accomplish a finished project that won’t have you regretting it because of how much money was spent. The key area of concern should surround product selection, not the brand.

At the end of the day, your kitchen should make you feel good while spending time with family and friends rather than being a cost and energy burden. When making repairs, choose wisely and end up with a kitchen that brings joy to your home.…

Most of us never think about the roof over our heads until there is a problem. However, you shouldn’t wait until there is water streaming through your ceiling. Roofing experts recommend that you inspect your roof twice per year, in the spring and the fall. Here are some important signs that you may need to replace your roof. If you see any of these signs, be sure to contact professional roofers palm bay fl

Leaky Roof

If you suspect that your roof might need to be replaced, check your attic first. Take a flashlight and look up underneath the eaves. Search for any beams of light that are streaming through the top of your house, and look for any streaks and stains, which is a sign of a leaky roof.

Roofing Shingles

Watch your rooftop to make sure it stays in good shape, particularly after a major storm. The shingles on your roof should lay flat. If there are patches of shingles that are buckling, damaged, or cracked, then they need to be repaired. Also, check the downspouts and gutters for shingle granules. When a roof is losing a high amount of granules it is a sign that it may be at the end of its life.

Roof Flashing

The flashing around the chimney seals, skylights, and vents that seals the roof against weather elements like rain. Examine those points to ensure there are no breaks or cracks that can lead to leaks. In older houses, flashes are frequently made out of tar or roof cement, so it is often a good investment to upgrade your metal flashing system for additional durability.

Sagging Roof

A sagging, drooping roof is definitely one that needs to be replaced before there is any further damage done to your house. Check the surface of the roof for signs of sagging spots, rotting boards, or trapped moisture – especially at the roof’s lowest points.

Moss on the Roof

Moss, as well as fungi and mold, might be an indication that there could be trapped moisture, which is something that can ruin your roof. To eliminate moss on the shady corners of the roof, a stiff brush can be used to scrub it away.…

You finally bought the vacation cabin you have wanted for so long. It will be so nice to get away from the hustle and bustle and spend time in a quiet, natural setting. Now you need to think about the furnishings. What type of furniture, window treatments, and other items are you going to use to personalize your new home away from home?

Choosing the Style of Furniture

Many people like the look of unfinished furniture. It can add a special touch to your cabin. If you decide to use this type, you should make sure it is well sanded. This will prevent any rough edges. If you want, it can be sealed and a clear coat added for the look of natural wood.

Another great look that is often used in cabins is the rustic style. This furniture is usually made of wood or twigs that have been steamed so they can be bent to form the curves and shapes desired. Willow is a popular wood used in rustic furniture. Logs that have been shaped using an ax or chisel is yet another popular style of furniture, particularly in log cabins.

Windows and Floors

The window treatments you choose can add to the unique look you want to create for your cabin. Rather than just being limited to curtains or typical shades, there are several options today. Wood blinds are one of the most popular. They can be painted or stained to match floors or other décor. Another preferred type of window treatment is shutters. If you want to stay with a rustic look, try to find used ones in good shape at flea markets or other places that sell reclaimed items.

Many cabin floors are hardwood. Some have stone or ceramic tile. Adding rugs to your floors can help to make rooms cozy as well as creating the look you want. One example of a company that offers cabin rugs is Handcraft Rugs. Using rugs can also provide a comfortable feel for your feet, especially when the weather is chilly.…

The United States markets reacted poorly when interest rates rose at the end of last year. However, market sentiment has cooled as the Fed has assured there will not be any further interest rate hikes for the foreseeable future. For those looking to sell a home, the beginning of April is the perfect time to create a listing. With the conclusion of tax season approaching, potential homeowners are preparing to move across the board.

Improving the Homes Market Value

When preparing to sell a home, there are undoubtedly issues that need to be addressed to make the home move-in ready. Home improvement expenses can be costly, but using the services of firms like Sun West Mortgage can help alleviate some financial strain. Investing money into these repairs is one of many ways to appease those interested in purchasing your property.

Moving Out and Moving In

Unless unforeseen circumstances are resulting in the sale of your home, you are most likely looking to purchase another home after selling the previous one. The market changes over time and consulting professionals such as Sun West Mortgage can make purchasing decisions much more manageable.

Previous market data indicates that the beginning of April is the opportune time to sell a home. If you are looking to sell your home, now is the time to act.…

Many roofing options are available for modern and vintage homes, and each option provides unique advantages. If you want to upgrade your Titusville home with a suitable roofing material, there are a few types that you may want to consider.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt is the least expensive option for a home. On average, this type of material can protect a roof for up to 30 years. These shingles can handle heavy impacts, which is why they’re commonly installed on houses in severe weather zones.

Wooden Shingles

Wooden shingles are more durable as they can stay strong for 50 years. If you select these shingles, your options will include many wood varieties that are fire resistant. Wood has strong insulating properties, so it can lower your heating and cooling costs.

Metal

Metal is another roofing material that can provide protection for five decades. The most common metal roof types include

• Aluminum
• Copper
• Steel
• Zinc alloy

All of these metal materials can handle extreme weather conditions. Also, following intense weather events, each metal roof type won’t need frequent maintenance.

Plastic Polymer

Plastic polymer is a very durable material as it can stay in optimum condition for over 50 years. When shopping for plastic polymers, pick a supply company that uses recycled materials because this strategy helps the environment.. After a plastic polymer roof is installed, you’ll reduce your cooling costs since the material reflects heat waves instead of absorb them.

Slate

Slate has an expensive price tag as it’s highly durable. If you place this material on your home, it will shield your foundation for more than 100 years.

Solar Glass

Solar glass is the most expensive roofing material for a home. It has a high price tag because the material never breaks down.

These are just some of the available roofing options for houses. A new roofing Titusville FL crew should tackle all installation tasks.…