As anyone who uses running water knows, it’s only a matter of time until you encounter a clogged drain. In most cases, drain blockage can be removed with relative ease when using the proper tools and precautions. Two of the most common tools for unstopping a clogged drain are the plunger and liquid drain cleaner. Each one of the tools in its own right does a good job at clearing stopped up sinks, tubs, and toilets. But, both also have limitation depending on the severity of the clog, and...
Mold and mildew refer to tiny microscopic fungi that exist nearly everywhere. Fungi do not require light to survive, since they do not perform photosynthesis. Rather, they reproduce through microscopic spores. Mold and mildew often appear as brown, green or black spots, and usually cause a musty smell. Mold and mildew typically grow in damp locations, like basements and showers. Some common indoor molds include Alternaria, Cladosporium, Aspergillus and Penicillium. Mold Health Effects Fungus causes respiratory symptoms in some people, including coughing and wheezing. Other symptoms of exposure can include eye...
No matter how well you clean, if the basement smells musty, the house seems unclean. Molds thrive in damp, dark places and may be the source of the problem. Often times they occur in places that are visited less frequently like roofs and basements, or they stars from the roof and then spread to the rest of the house. Molds thrive in warm, moist, or humid environments. A basement can be a perfect place for molds to grow. Molds are most likely to appear during warm damp months in...
Leaking is one of those annoying problems that always starts slowly and often goes unnoticed until it too late and has already caused massive problems. Perhaps the only leaks that are easy to notice are the leaky faucet and I have covered it in this article. This time I will go over some common areas where leaks occur- basement, roof, and toilets. Leaky Basement Remedy Leaky basement promotes mold growth and generally create an uncomfortable living environment for homeowners. Basement water problems are not a new subject, but it is a...
Leaky faucets are just one of many home problems that can strain the budget (along with other leaks at home). With just a little knowledge and a few good tools, anyone can fix a leaky faucet. Whether a leak is caused by lime building up or by a washer that needs replacing, here are the guidelines for fixing a dripping faucet. Tools For The Job flathead screwdriver new washer masking tape Phillips head screwdriver 8" adjustable crescent wrench Repairing a Leaky Faucet Turn off the water to the faucet. Look underneath...
When tiling kitchen backsplashes, tub, and shower surrounds or using glass tiles, caulk is needed to finish the job and flex when grout cannot. Understanding when the caulk is needed, and where it is best applied can help any homeowner achieve a longer lasting tile installation. What is Tile Caulk? Caulk has been used for centuries as a flexible joint filler. First used in ships, to join together wooden boards, today's caulk fills a number of uses in the home. Caulk can be latex, or silicone based so that when...
Homeowners often overlook one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways they can cut down on energy bills: adding attic insulation. Tankless water heaters and solar systems may be sexier upgrades, but most attics are woefully under-insulated (especially in older homes). Adding insulation to an attic can immediately lower home heating and cooling bills and is a relatively inexpensive upgrade that can pay for itself in as little as 6-9 months. While looking to cut down on the energy bills don't overlook windows either. Blown attic insulation Blown attic insulation is...
Creating a basement home office can provide a comfortable working space that isn't constantly interrupted. Here's how to set one up properly. With the state of the economy, people are looking more and more into working at home. In fact, millions of people are now working from their homes and the numbers are rising as the people are cutting out the daily commute more and more. When working at home, it is important that people have a place at home where they can work comfortably and quietly. In the northern...
After a long day at work, it would be great to come home to a relaxing in home basement spa to get some serious relaxation in. But relaxation is hard when the spa turns into a burden for you and your family. The disadvantages of a basement spa can be a major deterrent and should be considered before doing a project of this magnitude. Extra Plumbing Costs Installing a spa does not have to be expensive, but in basements, the plumbing costs can be as much as the equipment for...
