Make an Emergency Kit for Your Home

January 29, 2012 Home Maintenance
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Posted on Jan 29, 2012 @ 12:15 by Nick Domino

Although we hope you never need it, it is important to spend the time to make an emergency supply kit for your home. If a sudden disaster, like a hurricane, flood, or long term power outage, strikes, your everyday lifestyle could be turned upside down. It does not take long to craft a plan for emergency situations, and gathering necessary supplies is actually fairly easy to do (it becomes hard, though, once the crisis hits!).

In general, FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) recommends being ready for emergencies in these basic areas: water, food, first aid supplies, sanitation / clothing / bedding, tools, and special items.

Water – Have a 3 to 7 day supply on hand. Estimate your needs at approximately a gallon per person per day, with half of the water being used for drinking and half for hygiene. You may need water purification tablets as well.

Food – Have at least a 3 day supply of non-perishable, easy to prepare foods. Try avoiding salty foods in order to limit thirst. Freeze-dried food like dried fruits, granola bars, beef jerky, or non-perishable high energy foods work well. Canned items like condensed meats and soups, canned fruits and vegetables, and fruit juices are also good choices. Make sure you have a hand can opener to access them. Also, items like peanut butter and jelly, hard candy, canned nuts, and vitamins are good to have on hand, and can be comforting during disasters. Of course, periodically check to make sure that your supply’s expiration dates have not passed.

Regarding food choices, FEMA suggests (PDF), “As you stock food, take into account your family’s unique needs and tastes. Familiar foods are important. They lift morale and give a feeling of security in times of stress. Try to include foods they will enjoy and that are also high in calories and nutrition. Foods that do not require refrigeration, water, special preparation or cooking are best.”

Red Cross advises, that “Individuals with special diets will need particular attention, as will babies, toddlers, and the elderly. (Baby supplies could include bottles, formula, baby food and diapers.) Canned dietetic foods may be helpful for ill or elderly people.”

Kitchen supplies to have on hand, besides a manual can opener, include: aluminum foil, utensils for eating and cooking, disposable plates and bowls, re-sealable plastic bags, household bleach, paper towels, and garbage bags for trash storage.

First Aid Kit – To treat cuts and prevent infections, have peroxide or antibiotic cream available. Also, include bandages of various sizes and gauze, with medical tape for fastening. Other necessities include tweezers, gloves, burn ointment, scissors, a first aid manual, and pain relievers. Dust masks are a good idea as well, since you may have to protect yourself from dust or debris in the air. Finally, moistened towelettes are always helpful to have on hand to make it easier to stay clean.

Medications – Have a 7 day supply of essential medicine that your family needs, along with backups of necessities like eye glasses, contact lenses with cleaning solution, or hearing aids with extra batteries.

Sanitation / Clothing / Bedding – Basics to have on hand include: toilet paper, paper towels, hand sanitizer, moist towelettes (also mentioned above), feminine supplies, and any other personal hygiene items you regularly need.

Anticipate your climate requirements, and have the following for each person: blankets or sleeping bags, a complete change of extra clothing, a hat, and sturdy shoes. Rain gear, insect repellant, and sun screen are also beneficial to pack.

Tools and Equipment – It is a good idea to have a battery powered or hand crank radio in your kit. You should also have a NOAA Weather Radio with a tone alert. Of course, keep a supply of extra batteries for both. Actually, it is best to have a model that has both battery and solar power supply options. Some models can even be used to charge cell phones when the power is off.

Flashlights and extra batteries are a fundamental requirement for your supply kit. Lights are comforting as well as vital for safety. It is best to avoid candles or open flames, which could prove dangerous if unknown flammable leaks are present on your property. A wrench or pliers are also helpful, since you may have to turn off your utilities. Always useful in everyday life, duct tape is a must during an emergency. Also, have a roll of plastic sheeting, which can be used to construct an instant temporary shelter or seal window openings.

Matches in a water-proof container are worth having on hand, especially if you have a fireplace or wood stove that you can operate safely. Make sure you have a supply of firewood as well.

Specialty Items –Keep copies of personal documents (medication lists, medical information, deed or lease to home, birth certificates, insurance policies), photocopies of identification and credit cards, bank and investment account information, family photos, passports, and contact information for friends, relatives, doctors, and emergency numbers. All of this information should be in a water-proof, portable container.

You may need the following miscellaneous items:

Cell phone and chargers. Have a solar power source if possible.
Whistle to signal for help.
Extra car and house keys.
Extra cash.
Pet needs – food, medicine, and extra water.
Entertainment items like books, games, puzzles, paper, and pens.
Camera so you can document damage to your property.
Map of your area.
Full tank of gas in your vehicle.

Resource Websites: Many of these suggestions came from the sources below, which also contain a wealth of additional advice on specific emergency situations.

Red Cross

Tel: 1-866-GET-INFO will also access the American Red Cross’ “Be Red Cross Ready” checklists. They are very helpful and free.

FEMA – The Federal Emergency Management Agency, offers a helpful list on its website, called “Recommended Items to Include in a Basic Emergency Kit.”

Individual states and local communities often have their own dedicated websites on this topic, with specifics on local climates, challenges, and needs.

Whether you have experienced serious emergencies in the past or have been fortunate enough to avoid this type of situation, it is important to be prepared for such an event in the future. These situations can be exceedingly stressful and can change people’s lives, long after the event. It is absolutely worth taking an hour or two during your free time to put together an emergency supply kit.

Photo source: US Department of Agriculture

10 Tips for Avoiding Plumbing Emergencies

November 14, 2011 Water Damage
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Posted on Nov 14, 2011 @ 18:35 by Nick Domino

Plumbing maintenance may not be the most exciting topic to read about, but it is well worth your attention!  By regularly examining your plumbing system, and performing preventative maintenance, you can save yourself from both costly repair bills and the slow, steady expense caused by drips and leaks.  Read on for a maintenance checklist to help you stay ahead of common plumbing problems.

1. Boiler and water heater:  Inspect and clean your boiler each year before the heating season.  In addition, many plumbers recommend draining and cleaning your water heater annually.  Most people hire a professional to handle these tasks, due to their technical nature, and often they are even included in your plumbing fixture’s service contract.

2. Valves:  Locate all your shut-off valves and turn them off, then back to their original position, to make sure they would not be stuck open in the event that you need to shut the water off.  While you are at it, look them over for any sign of corrosion, which could lead to an undetected leak.  Replace any valves that are not working properly.  Finally, make sure that your entire family knows where your shutoff valves are located, especially the main one, since this is very valuable information in case a leak occurs.

3. Leaks:  Leaks can develop in many different places in your plumbing system and should be addressed immediately to curtail waste and water damage.  Periodically check for any of the following signs of trouble: soft flooring near toilets, bathtubs, dishwashers, water heaters or washing machines; dampness inside sink cabinets; soft walls or loose tiles that could signal a leak inside a wall; pipes with rust or mineral deposits; constant dampness around faucets or toilets; and finally toilets that keep running after being flushed.

4. Old or malfunctioning fixtures: Generally, toilets, dishwashers, washing machines, water heaters, and boilers that are more than 12 years old are good candidates for replacement.  New appliances will be more energy and water efficient.  Check the item’s serial number, since this often indicates the year it was manufactured.  Companies use a variety of coding methods, so perform a quick internet search to find out what to look for.  Additionally, replace old faucets with new, washer-less models to save on maintenance costs, and replace any hardened or cracked hoses on washers and dishwashers to reduce the risk of a rupture.  The old adage “If it isn’t broken, don’t fix it,” does not always make sense when it comes to plumbing!   Keep in mind that by swapping the old plumbing fixtures for new, more efficient models you could save money every month on your energy and water bills in addition to avoiding costly water damage repair bills.

5. Caulking:  Check and re-do any aging caulking around bathtubs, showers, toilets, and sinks that might be allowing water to penetrate the surrounding structure.

6. Basement Flooding:  If you live in an area prone to flooding, or on a lot with poor site drainage, consider installing a basement sump pump if you do not have one already.  Additionally, you can install a backup sump pump, as a preventative measure to take over the pumping duties in the event that a storm knocks out your power.

7. Septic:  If you have a septic system, any persistently marshy areas in your drainage field may signal a leak in your septic line.  Although pumping a septic tank is an essential element of plumbing maintenance, there is no hard and fast rule governing how frequently you should pump the tank.  It depends on several factors, like the number of people in your household, whether there is a garbage disposal, the size of your tank, its system design, and even the temperature in your region.  Consult a septic expert to find out how often you should pump your septic tank.

8. Low water pressure:  Test for low water pressure by running water from your tub faucet and then opening the kitchen faucet.  If the pressure decreases when you open the second faucet, you should get a plumber to analyze the problem.  Low water pressure is often caused by a leaks or sediment build-up in pipes.

9. Drains:  Clogged drainpipes can often be avoided by regularly cleaning your drains with an eco-friendly drain cleaner.  One easy way to clean your kitchen garbage disposal is to send some ice through it to clean out any grease that may have accumulated inside.  Also, look for bubbles escaping up from a drain while water is trying to go down, as this could indicate a drain vent problem.

10. Frozen pipes:  If you live in an area that experiences cold winters, like northern U.S. states or Canada, it is well worth your time to install and maintain insulation around your cold water supply pipes.  Take extra care with any length of pipe that has been previously frozen or is exposed to wind or cold outside temperatures.

Whether you perform these maintenance checks yourself or hire a professional to handle them, it is a worthwhile investment of your time or money.  By taking preventative measures, you greatly reduce the risk that you encounter costly surprises down the road.

Advice on Hiring a Plumber

September 26, 2011 Water Damage
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Posted on Sep 26, 2011 @ 6:09 by Nick Domino

Choosing a good plumber is an important decision because plumbing repairs and renovations can be expensive, and incompetent workmanship can quickly lead to further cost and aggravation. There are many aspects to consider. In addition to hiring someone for a fair price, you also want your plumber to be trustworthy, knowledgeable, experienced, and efficient.

Of course, these matters are best contemplated when there is no water gushing onto your floor and you have time to compare plumbers. However, if you do find yourself in an emergency situation, it is generally a good idea to select the most established local company you can find.

Use a variety of resources to get started in your selection process.

Ask your friends, building contractors you know, or your real estate agent for their recommendations. They will likely be glad to share their experiences about plumbers they have hired. Be sure to find out what kind of work they had done, whether they were happy with the quality, and if the job was completed in a timely and cost-effective manner. Tales of satisfaction or woe, from someone you trust, carry a lot of weight when looking for a reliable tradesman.

An additional method of finding a good plumber is to check online for a local directory of plumbing contractors and then examine the customer reviews and ratings. You may be able to get a feel for the size and scope of a company’s work from their website. Review sites, like Angie’s List, can assist you in comparing several local plumbers, and some can even offer recommendations for specific types of work. Finally, you can also check with the Better Business Bureau.

Call Recommended Plumbers

Whether speaking directly to an independent plumber or the salesperson at a large company, you will get an impression of their business from a telephone interview. Have a list of questions ready and organize your findings with a chart or spreadsheet. Here are some topics to cover:

  • Labor Costs: Is labor charged by the hour or is a flat rate applied to each specific task? There is no right or wrong here, but be aware that higher rates are usually charged after normal business hours. A plumber will most likely give you a rough estimate of time and cost over the telephone but will not work up a true quote without seeing the work to be done. Ask if they charge for the estimate itself or the travel time to get to your location.
  • Credentials: A plumber’s license for your locale and current contractor insurance are both vital requirements. Ask for a copy of his insurance certificate and plumber’s license.
  • Estimate and Contract: Will these documents be available in writing?
  • Experience: Find out how long the contractor has been in the plumbing business and if he has experience with the type of work you need to have done. If the business has a number of plumbers and helpers, ask if you can request a journeyman.
  • Service Warranty: What type of warranty is offered? The coverage can range from 30 days to 5 years.
  • Additional Questions: Is a 24 hour service offered? If you do not already have referrals, can he supply a list of references?
  • Your impression: Rate your impression of the telephone conversation. Were you treated with professionalism? It is important to feel comfortable, and to be able to communicate easily, with workers coming into your home.

Final Steps

Using the information you gleaned from your telephone calls, select at least three plumbers and have them come to your home to look at the project. Be sure to get an itemized, written estimate and a time frame for when the work could be completed. Ask how any cost overruns would be handled, or if there would be any extra fees. Also find out how and when they expect to be paid, and keep in mind that some plumbers require a percentage of the cost upfront.

Base your final hiring decision chiefly on the plumber’s reputation for reliability and quality. Sign a contract that specifies exactly what the work is, when it will be done, and how much it will cost. When considering the cost, a good rule of thumb is to select an estimate that is near the average price. Keep in mind that a very low estimate may signal an inexperienced plumber, while a very high estimate could mean they are too busy and cannot really devote sufficient time to your work.

Cost Considerations to Keep in Mind

  • An experienced plumber may charge a higher rate but may also be a more efficient worker.
  • If a plumber has a well-stocked van he may not need to run for parts as often while “on the clock.”
  • Is your project likely to have surprises? If your pipes are very old, or if a leak is hidden behind a wall, for instance, then your plumber may actually be unable to give a hard and fast estimate. Ask instead for an upper limit of the cost.
  • An experienced plumber will be able to recommend fixtures and appliances for your situation. However, you should try to have an idea of what you want beforehand, since this will save him time, which in turn could save you money. Have a concise list ready. Remember, most plumbers will want to buy all the supplies for the job themselves.
  • Clarify working hours and arrangements.
  • Be wary of plumbers who only accept cash, do not charge required tax, do not have bills or receipts printed with their company name, or ask for the majority of the payment upfront. This could be a warning sign of an unreliable or inexperienced tradesperson.

Following these guidelines will take some effort, but it could save you a considerable amount of time and money in the long run. Finally, remember that as eager as you are to hire a professional who performs his job well, your plumber is also hoping to be treated with respect and to be paid in a timely manner. You never know when you may need him again. If he does a commendable job, offer to give him a good recommendation, since someone is always looking for a good plumber.

Preventing Home Moisture Problems

July 3, 2011 Water Damage
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Posted on Jul 3, 2011 @ 7:21 by Nick Domino

There are a variety of actions you can take to get moisture problems under control in your house. They vary in complexity and cost – while some are relatively involved, other steps are actually quite simple.

Easy ways to control moisture

Installing good quality storm windows is an easy, yet effective way to curtail condensation problems caused by warm indoor air colliding with your cold window panes. Not only will they will help to keep your windows from getting fogged up or icy, but they will also help you control your heating costs.

Using a dehumidifier is another easy way to reduce your home’s humidity level. Make sure to get one that is powerful enough to handle the size and humidity of your space. Generally, when the weather is cold outside, you should keep your home’s humidity level low, in order to keep condensation at bay. During periods of high humidity in the summer, both air conditioners and dehumidifiers can help to lower the humidity inside your home.

Proper ventilation is essential to avoiding moisture problems. It is important to make sure that hot air can exit your home through natural air flow, while also keeping your home free of cracks or openings around doors, windows, or electrical outlets, where new humid air could enter. Besides reducing indoor moisture, ventilation also helps to keep indoor pollutants and odors under control.

Vapor barriers

Vapor barriers play an important role in controlling moisture in homes. They block or slow the movement of water vapor through surfaces like walls or floors, thereby helping to keep moisture from spreading. During construction, vapor barriers are usually attached to a house’s framing beneath the sheetrock on the exterior wall. Typical barriers are heavy, clear plastic sheets stapled onto the wood studs before sheetrock covers the walls. Coatings, like paint, can also act as water vapor barriers.

The extent to which your vapor barrier is airtight will determine its effectiveness. If you have a plastic membrane barrier, it is important that any holes in it, like where wires pass through, are sealed up. Keep an eye out for potential signs of vapor barrier failure, like mold or peeling paint on the inside of exterior walls, along with an obviously high humidity level. Consult a construction professional to assess whether your home’s vapor barriers are damaged or if your walls need additional treatment.

Outside your home

Finally, there are steps you can take outside your home to keep moisture from getting inside the structure. Make sure your roof gutter drainage system functions well (see our Gutter Maintenance Tips). Also, if possible, ensure that your yard is sloped away from your house on all sides.

Take steps to dampness-proof the portion of your foundation wall that is below grade, along with your footings if possible, to keep both from absorbing ground water. One way to do this is to coat the exterior of your foundation walls and footings with a moisture proof, tar-based membrane. Also, try to verify that your buried footing drainage is diverting ground water away from your foundation. If the soil outside your foundation becomes saturated, water will try to penetrate into your basement, potentially causing expensive trouble (see our Ground Water Control and Foundation Damage articles).

If you get in the habit of checking for signs of excess moisture in your home, you will be able to prevent a lot of costly damage. Of course, fix any problems you see immediately, and consult construction or mold professionals to help you assess and deal with any serious issues.

Causes of Home Moisture & Condensation Problems

May 22, 2011 Water Damage
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Posted on May 22, 2011 @ 19:11 by Nick Domino

Causes of Home Moisture & Condensation Problems

Moisture problems have a variety of causes and can result in major damage to your home. It is a good idea to inspect your house regularly for any damage caused by moisture, while also keeping an eye out for warning signs of potential trouble ahead. If you notice any problems, take immediate action to fix them before they cause further damage or balloon into larger, more complicated issues.

Uncontrolled humidity can actually make your home more expensive to heat and cool, because when insulation gets damp enough, it loses its R value and its ability to insulate. This is a common problem in basements, crawl spaces, and attics (see our article on common Roof Problems for more info on attics).

Mold

Damp conditions in these areas also promote mold growth, which can have many nasty effects. It can actually damage the structure of your home by weakening building materials, as well as cause health problems. Additionally, damage from mold is often not covered by homeowner’s insurance, making prevention all the more important.

If you can see evidence of mold in your home’s living areas, then there is a good chance it has already affected structural components of your house. Investigate the extent of your mold problem as soon as possible. In fact, even if you do not see evidence of mold, if your home has high moisture or humidity levels, then it is a good idea to have a professional mold inspector assess whether you have an existing mold problem.

Damp conditions in houses are often caused by insufficient ventilation or water leaks that have not been completely cleaned up. Anytime you notice a leaky pipe or dripping faucet in your home, investigate and fix it immediately! Additionally, rain can leak into houses as the result of worn siding, flashing, or weather-stripping material. Check these materials to make sure they are watertight.

Condensation

Condensation is another common cause of excess moisture. In general, warmer air can hold more moisture than colder air. So, when warm air cools, the moisture in it has to go somewhere. This creates condensation – moisture is deposited on the first cold surface that the air contacts. Condensation problems can occur in the winter as well as the summer, and could have several causes. A high air humidity level could be the culprit. Keep an eye on your windows. Do you see moisture on the inside of the panes? If so, then the humidity level inside your house is too high. Take steps to reduce it.

Trapped hot air inside the home also tends to cause condensation. This could even result from a house being extremely well-insulated and properly sealed from cold air. If pockets of hot air get trapped in the house and come in contact with cold surfaces, condensation takes place. These cold surfaces could be things like exterior walls, windows, pipes, or a toilet. To guard against this, make sure your ventilation system is functioning well, and install kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans if you do not already have them.

Fix and prevent moisture problems

It is important to continuously monitor your home for signs of moisture damage. Be sure to fix problems quickly, before they develop into larger, more complex issues. Read our article on Preventing Moisture Problems, to learn more about preventative steps you can take in your home.

Avoiding Roof Problems

March 12, 2011 Home Maintenance
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Posted on Mar 12, 2011 @ 14:33 by Nick Domino

Keep Your Roof In Good Condition

It is import to monitor the physical condition of your home’s roof regularly, so that you spot problems early, before they compound into serious issues. Do not wait until a leak occurs. Instead, be proactive – inspect your roof at least twice per year and also after heavy storms. When you see damage, have a professional repair it immediately.

You can probably accomplish a portion of your visual roof inspection from the ground, using binoculars. However, it is necessary to go up on the roof for a close-up view from time to time as well. Be sure to exercise caution when on your roof or climbing on ladders to avoid injury, and stay off your roof during slippery conditions. Alternatively, you can have a roofing professional help you inspect your roof.

In general, to maintain a healthy roof, ensure that your roofing material and flashing are water tight and in good shape. Also make sure your attic has good ventilation and insulation. If one of these basic elements of your roofing system is deficient, your roof’s integrity is compromised, which will lead to problems.

Keep in mind that the climate conditions in your area will have a dramatic effect on your roof’s longevity. Harsh precipitation, such as hail, will cause significant wear to your roof over time, as will air that has a high salt or pollutant content. Wind is another important factor. High winds push and tug at the edges and top of your roof. Over time this can cause your shingles, and the roof frame itself, to loosen.

Inspecting Your Roof

Check your roof for damaged or missing shingles. When shingles deteriorate or are missing, the roofing material below is exposed to the elements, causing water damage. Watch for pieces of shingles in your gutters or in the yard around your house.

Look at the metal flashing that is attached to your chimneys, vent pipes, and roof joints. Leaks can occur when this flashing is damaged. On large, complex roofs, look at the valleys connecting your roof’s different surfaces. These valleys serve as primary pathways for water, funneling it to a particular spot as it exits the roof. Because of their importance, these valleys are often reinforced by an extra “snow and ice shield” protective layer underneath the roofing. Make sure that all of the roofing materials in these valleys are in good shape, since a puncture here could quickly lead to serious water damage.

Hail can be especially damaging to a roof. After a big hail storm, once your roof is no longer slippery, look for signs of damage to your roof. On your shingles, check for a repeating pattern of dents or broken edges and corners. If you have asphalt shingles, look for eroded asphalt particles in your gutters. Also, be on the lookout for leaks after a hailstorm, as the hail could have actually punctured your roof.

Inside Your House

Walk through your house, and look for any signs of water leaking through your roof, including water-stained ceilings or walls, as well as peeling wallpaper.

Ice Dams

One common problem in areas with cold winters is “ice damming.” This takes place when snow or ice melts and then freezes again as temperatures drop, creating a dam of ice. As some of the ice then melts, water gets trapped by the dam, resulting in standing water on your roof. If there happens to be faulty roofing material where that water collects, water can end up entering your house, causing a serious problem. Additionally, the ice itself can damage your roofing material by freezing and thawing while attached to your shingles. Because of this, try to verify whether the lowest sections of your roof are protected by a “snow and ice shield” layer.

Ventilation and Insulation

The root cause of ice damming is usually insufficient attic ventilation or insulation, which allows the attic, and subsequently the roof, to get too warm. Generally, winter attic temperatures should only be a few degrees warmer than the outside temperature. People often do not realize this and allow their attics to get too warm. Heat then passes through the attic to the roof, causing ice dams and standing water problems.

Attic condensation and moisture also affect your roof. Condensation is the unavoidable byproduct of “hot meeting cold.” Similar to the way a cold drink in a hot room produces moisture on the outside of the glass, condensation is continuously occurring inside your attic insulation layer, since the insulation is the barrier between hot and cold temperatures. This moisture needs to be carried away from your attic by a well-functioning air circulation system. If it is not removed, then during warm months, heat and moisture will break down your roofing material, causing it to wear out prematurely. Additionally, in the wintertime, condensation will saturate your insulation, reducing its ability to insulate and leading to high attic temperature problems.

To protect your attic and roof from heat and condensation, check to make sure your soffit intake vents and ridge vents are not blocked. A soffit is the underside of your roof’s overhang. Vents are usually located there, because it is a natural place from which to draw cool air into your attic. It is essential to your roof’s health that these vents are open, because if they do not vent properly, heat and condensation problems will likely occur. Since warm air rises naturally, it will seek to exit out of your roof’s ridge vent, located at the highest point in your roof. This subsequently causes fresh, cooler air to be drawn into your attic through the soffit vents. This basic air circulation pattern should operate continuously to keep your attic and roof from getting too hot, while also carrying away excess moisture and keeping your insulation dry, so it insulates properly.

Remove anything that might be blocking your soffit and ridge vents, such as insulation stuffed against them or possibly wood that was installed in front of them, in a misguided attempt to keep the attic warm. Additionally, consider adding an attic fan to dispel excess heat from your attic in the summer. An attic fan is minimal expense, but it can greatly increase the effectiveness of your soffit and ridge vent system. Also, consider adding insulation baffles between each rafter or roof truss, if they are not already installed, as this is another inexpensive way to promote air flow through your soffit vents.

Proper attic insulation is another important component of a healthy roof. As mentioned above, you actually want the unused attic portion of your house to be cold during the winter, like the outside air. Many people try to keep their attics warm as a way to keep heating costs down, but this is actually counterproductive.

A simple way to tell if your attic floor has enough insulation, and if your attic vents are working properly, is to look at your roof during cold weather when snow covers it. Monitor the amount of snow on the roof for a few days. If the snow stays on your roof, it is likely that your ventilation and insulation are sufficient, but if the snow melts quickly on certain parts of your roof, you can tell that either your insulation or venting is lacking in those spots. Also, it is important to make sure your attic insulation is of an appropriate thickness, or “R value” for your geographic location. Consult your local building codes or a home construction professional to make this determination.

Perform Regular Maintenance and Fix Problems Quickly

Finally, make sure you continually monitor your roof’s condition and perform regular maintenance. One simple step you can take is to just keep your roof clean. This is especially important for homes with minimally sloped roofs. Sweep debris off your roof, while taking care not to damage your shingles in the process. Also, keep your gutters well maintained. Properly functioning gutter drainage is very important to your roof’s health and also helps to prevent basement water damage by leading rain water away from your foundation (read our Gutter Maintenance Tips). Most importantly, when you spot a problem on your roof, get it fixed as soon as you can, so it does not turn into a more serious issue in the future.

Tips on Hiring a Contractor

January 6, 2011 Home Maintenance
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Posted on Jan 6, 2011 @ 8:43 by Nick Domino

Finding the right contractor for a construction project can be surprisingly difficult. Since your choice of contractor will directly impact your satisfaction with the completed project, it is important to be as thorough as possible in your search process.

Figure Out What You Want

While your project is still in the planning stage, before speaking to contractors, take the time to map out what you want to accomplish, in as much detail as you can. This will make your discussions with contractors much easier and help avoid misunderstandings down the road.

Figure out things like: your budget for the project, the material type and quality you want to use, and the completion time you need. As you do your research, consult designers, architects, and material suppliers, as needed, so that you understand your options and preferences.

Due Diligence

After your planning is done and you begin your search for a contractor, take the time to conduct thorough due diligence. This becomes especially important for larger jobs.

Compile a large list of possible contractors, and then work to narrow it down to at least 3 candidates to request bids from. During your research, be sure to use your friends and acquaintances as resources, since word of mouth is often a good way to find candidates.

As you research the contractors on your list, try to get a feel for how reputable and established they are. Do an online search. Read reviews that are available, and also look for any complaints (search contractor names along with words like “review” or “complaint”).

Check with the Better Business Bureau. Find out what information they have on the contractors. Have any complaints been lodged? If so, what was done to address them?

Find out whether the contractors are licensed in your location, and do not hesitate to confirm this by calling the licensing organization.

Additionally, check to make sure they have the proper liability insurance. Get written proof of insurance, as this is often required to obtain a building permit. Take the extra step of calling their insurance agent, to make sure the policy is current and in force. While you are on the phone, ask the agent whether the policy has consistently been in place or if it has frequently lapsed or been cancelled.

Finally, get multiple references from those contractors that you seriously consider. Call each one and find out if the project was completed to their satisfaction. Did the contractor stay within budget and finish on time? If problems came up, how were they handled? Was there any damage done to the property? If possible, go take a look at the contractor’s work for yourself.

Discussions with Contractors

Sit down and talk at length with the contractors on your short list. Ask a lot of questions. Find out about their experience. How long have they been in business? What type and scale of project do they typically take on? What do they consider to be their specialty?

As you discuss your project, keep in mind that a good contractor will have a wealth of experience and can provide you with a lot of helpful advice. It is unlikely that they will simply agree with all your ideas about the best way to handle the project. Actually, if they do, it could be a warning sign – that they are simply trying to sign you up as a customer without helping you consider the best, most feasible ways to accomplish your project.

Finally, find out how busy they are, and whether they have the capacity for additional work. If it sounds like they already have too much on their plate, be careful. On the other hand, if they seem to have no work at all, that could be a warning sign too.

Bids

In order to gain negotiating power and the ability to compare, solicit bids from at least 3 contractors. Get the bids in writing, and make sure they address specific detail. You will want to be able to make “apples to apples” comparisons across the bids you receive. To accomplish this, be as specific as possible about the scope of the project when requesting bids, so that all the contractors bid on similar work, time-frame, and material quality.

Keep in mind that simply choosing the lowest bidder is not necessarily the best course of action. There could be a good reason that they seem so cheap. Find the reasons for any major price differences in the quotes you receive. Be cautious if a particular bidder uses extremely low estimates for materials or labor. Find out why.

Be sure to take intangible factors into account as well. Interpersonal interaction, for example, can be extremely important. You will need to get along with the contractor and work with them to make decisions and handle problems that come up. If your personalities conflict badly, the project will suffer.

Get Everything in Writing

Before the contractor starts work, sign a written contract that clearly lays out all important details. Of course, the contract should include major elements like: the exact scope of the work to be performed, expected time line, types of materials to be used, contractor’s responsibilities, budget, and schedule of payment.

Beyond these basics, however, there are many additional details that should be agreed upon. The contract should also include things like: who is responsible for trash and materials removal (including proper removal of hazardous materials), how to handle bathroom facilities, what happens if the project goes over budget, how to resolve disputes, who will handle permits and inspections, what responsibilities the homeowner has, and the names of any subcontractors. Also, make sure the contract is clear on what happens if an outside event, like a storm or material shortage, disturbs the project’s completion.

There likely will be many additional details that you will want to include in your contract as well. Make sure that there are no grey areas. In fact, if it seems like a contractor is trying to be vague, you probably do not want to work with them anyway.

It is a good idea to have a lawyer review the contract before you sign. Read it thoroughly yourself as well, since you need to fully understand what the contract contains before you finalize anything.

Worth the Effort

Although the contractor search process can require some work on your end, it is worth the effort. By taking the time to find a contractor you are comfortable with and confident in, you greatly reduce the likelihood of ending up dissatisfied once your project is complete.

This Water Damage Defense article is intended to provide information of general interest to the public and is not intended to offer legal advice about specific situations or problems. You should consult a lawyer if you have a legal matter requiring attention.

Causes of Water Damage

November 13, 2010 Water Damage
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Posted on Nov 13, 2010 @ 17:33 by Nick Domino

More than 1 million homes in the United States experience extensive water damage every year. In fact, water damage actually exceeds fire as the largest type of loss paid out in homeowner’s insurance claims.

Water damage causes building materials to deteriorate and creates an environment in which termites and mold flourish. Besides being a nuisance, termites and mold can both cause major structural damage to a home very quickly.

In addition to major catastrophes like floods, many of the incidents that cause water damage occur right at home. Fortunately, they are often preventable.

Typical Causes of Water Damage

Pipe failures are the leading cause of water damage, costing an average of $5,000 per incident to fix, according to insurance industry data. Frozen pipes are a typical culprit in cold weather areas, as pipes rupture from the pressure that builds in them as they freeze.

Toilet overflows and leaks are the second leading source of residential water damage. Common causes include: faulty supply lines, overfilling, and overflows from clogs.

Sinks: Deteriorating caulk and pipe leaks can cause drips that eventually turn into steady leaks. Overflows are typically caused by clogged pipes.

Bathtubs and showers: Similar to sinks, incidents are typically caused by overflows or deteriorated caulking.

Refrigerator Icemakers: Hoses can develop leaks as they age.

Dishwashers: Again, hoses wear out and crack, developing leaks.

Water Heaters: Leaks and failures are common as water heaters age. Approximately 1 out of 10 failures occur when the occupant is not at home, resulting in significant damage.

Washing Machines: Leaks tend to be caused by supply hoses and water connections failing. As would be expected, the worst damage takes place if no one is at home, resulting in an average cleanup cost of $12,300, according to insurance industry data.

Basement Flooding typically occurs when sump pumps fail. Common causes include: power failure, the pump motor burning out from overuse, a broken impeller or drive shaft, the float switch getting stuck, a tripped circuit breaker, or high water volume simply exceeding the pump’s capacity.

Unfortunately, the scenarios described above are quite common and occur all too frequently. Fortunately, you can take steps to prevent them. Read our Tips on Preventing Water Damage.

Tips on Preventing Water Damage

August 5, 2010 Water Damage
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Posted on Aug 5, 2010 @ 11:53 by Nick Domino

Here are steps you can take to protect areas of your home that are vulnerable to water damage.

Water Heaters

To maximize the life expectancy of your water heater, periodically have a plumber do the following:

  • Inspect the anode rod in the water heater and replace if necessary. The anode rod is typically made from zinc, aluminum, or magnesium, and it protects the tank from corrosion. However, once the rod itself becomes corroded, it can no longer protect the tank. By replacing a worn-out anode rod, you can significantly increase your tank’s life expectancy.
  • Examine the glass lining inside the tank for spots where water has penetrated the lining, which could cause corrosion of the tank itself and ultimately lead to the tank rupturing.
  • Inspect valves and pipes. Make sure valves work properly, and replace rusty or worn out components.
  • Remove sediment from the tank every 6 months by flushing the water heater. Sediment can prevent the anode rod from functioning and makes it harder for the heater to heat water.

Washing Machines

If possible, install your washing machine in the basement, away from valuable home furnishings. Periodically inspect your machine to look for the following:

  • Valves: Replace any valves that are not working properly. Ideally, install a dual ball lever-operated valve, which will make it easier to turn off the water when you are not home.
  • Hoses: Look for signs of worn-out supply hoses, such as stress cracks, especially in places where the hoses bend sharply. Replace worn hoses or any that are over 5 years old with reinforced steel braided hoses. Tighten any loose hose connections – this is important, as leaks are most common at connection points.

Toilets

  • Stay in the room: It sounds overly simplistic, but one of the best ways to prevent water damage near your toilet is to simply stay in the bathroom until the toilet has finished refilling.
  • When the toilet overflows, turn off the supply valve as quickly as possible.
  • Inspect toilets a couple times per year. Look inside the tank to make sure that the fill and flush valves are working correctly. Make sure the supply line is securely connected and that the supply valve operates smoothly and contains no rust. Take note if the toilet is running between uses, as this can signal that toilet components are beginning to fail. One part that is particularly prone to failure is the flush valve, which can develop leaks. Replace any components that no longer work properly.

Plumbing System

Pay attention to your plumbing system, and stay on the lookout for indicators of potential leaks, including:

  • Water bills that are higher than they should be
  • Signs of moisture in the walls or floors
  • Rust stains in sinks or water that is rust-tinted
  • Pipes that make a “bang” noise, when faucets are turned off
  • Wet soil erosion close to your home’s foundation

Additionally, test your water shutoff valve regularly and make sure that everyone in your home knows how to shut off the house’s water supply.

Frozen Pipes

If you live in a region that gets cold in the winter, you should take steps to prevent frozen pipes, including:

  • When the temperature is extremely cold, open your faucets slightly to allow them to drip. This reduces pressure inside your pipes. Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes. Warm pipes in your basement, if necessary, with space heaters. Make sure any exposed plumbing, like that in basement ceilings, is well insulated.
  • Keep your thermostat set to 60 degrees or higher, even if no one is home.
  • Remove garden hoses and install a frost-free sillcock.

Water Leaks

Use a leak detection system with automatic water shutoff to protect your home from water leaks. Early detection is the key to preventing extensive water damage, and it will often mean the difference between cleaning up a small drip or having a large leak destroy your home and belongings.

Read about our Floodtek automatic leak detectors and water shutoff systems.

Basement Flooding

Make sure you have a reliable, well maintained primary sump pump in your sump pit. Additionally, ensure that its pumping capacity is sufficient to handle the water that could potentially enter your basement. Read our tips on determining pump capacity needs. If your basement is subject to high water volumes, you could install a standby pump as well, to assist your main pump by engaging when the water level rises to a certain point.

Additionally, take steps to protect your basement in case you lose power during a heavy storm. If your house loses power, your A/C powered primary pump will not be able to remove the water rising in your basement. However, if you have a battery backup sump pump in place, it would automatically switch on to handle the workload in place of your primary pump.

See our selection of primary, standby, and backup sump pumps.

Water Damage Cleanup, Part 2 – Fixing the Problem

July 23, 2010 Water Damage
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Posted on Jul 23, 2010 @ 14:42 by Nick Domino

Before beginning the water damage cleanup process, make sure that it is safe for you to be in your home. Read about safety issues to consider when dealing with water damage in part 1 of this article.

Stop Incoming Water

Once you have determined that it is safe to begin cleanup, start by preventing additional water from entering your house. If pipes are leaking, turn your house’s water supply off immediately. Have a plumber address the pipe leak. Similarly, if your roof is leaking, do your best to stop the leak and collect the water, and have a roofing professional fix your roof as soon as possible.

Take Pictures

While the damage is still evident, take pictures of all the water damaged areas in your home. These could prove important later on, as you deal with insurance companies or other parties. Be as complete as possible, but also do this quickly. It is important to begin cleanup as fast as you can.

Dry the Area, Circulate Fresh Air

Speed and fresh air are important. You want to dry out your home as quickly as possible to reduce the chance of serious mold problems. Use a wet/dry vacuum to remove water from floors and furniture. Open your windows and use fans to circulate as much fresh air as you can through the water damaged area. Additionally, use dehumidifiers to remove moisture. Run the fans and dehumidifiers until the drying process has completely finished.

Carpet and Furniture

Remove wet carpet, as well as furniture and valuable items from water damaged rooms. Be careful not to bring waterlogged items into dry, undamaged rooms, in order to avoid spreading moisture or mildew.

If your carpet has only been wet for a day or two, you might be able to keep it, although the padding should be thrown away. First, remove water from the carpet with a wet/dry vacuum, and then clean it with a professional carpet cleaning machine. However, if the carpet has been waterlogged for more than a couple of days, you will probably need to discard it.

Walls, Ceilings, Floors

Check your walls for signs of damage to the drywall. If your drywall is swollen or obviously waterlogged, it will have to be replaced. If your interior walls have undergone extreme water damage, cutting holes in them could help to speed the drying process. However, check with a water damage expert and your insurance company before you begin slicing away at your walls.

If water leaked through ceilings or floors, you may need to replace items like ceiling tiles and flooring material. If your insulation has been soaked, it will lose its ability to insulate, so it will need to be replaced as well.

Standing Water

Standing water can be especially tricky to deal with. If you have a lot of standing water in your basement, it is probably best to get an expert involved, because of counter-intuitive side effects that could result. For example, if a flood caused the standing water in your basement, the water-saturated soil outside could be exerting a lot of pressure on your basement walls. The standing water in your flooded basement, in this case, might actually be providing structural support to the walls. In extreme situations, pumping it out too quickly could cause your basement walls to crack or buckle.

After getting the standing water out of your basement, remove the remaining debris or mud before they dry. Finally, wash and sanitize the floor and walls.

Safety

Water damaged areas can be extremely dangerous, so error on the side of caution during the clean up process. Wear watertight gloves, clothing, and boots to protect yourself from bacteria, and only wade into standing water once you are absolutely sure that your electricity has been turned off. Finally, have someone else with you while you are working, in case of emergency. See our previous article for more on safety issues to consider when dealing with water damage.

Consider Using Professionals

Unfortunately, you may find that the scope of the damage is worse than you initially thought. If you discover signs of structural damage at any point, vacate the house immediately and contact professionals. Even if you are capable of handling the cleanup yourself, it you think it will take you a long time, consider using professional help, since fast and complete cleanup is the best way to reduce your chances of mold and mildew problems down the road.

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