Brendan Marchant

During the process of buying or selling a home, homeowners often learn about recommended or required repairs and upgrades. Of course, the first thing most people want to know is, "How much will that cost"?

Pillar to Post is pleased to offer our Residential Construction and Remodeling Estimates cost guide, which provides estimated cost ranges to repair and/or replace all the major systems and components in a home. It also includes general guidelines for the life expectancies of those systems. This information can help your clients make informed decisions when they're considering home repairs or improvements, and is especially valued by homeowners before their property is listed.

Browse below for just a sampling of our list of estimated costs in a typical home.

1. Floors Hardwood

• Floor Refinish $2-$5 / sq. ft
• Carpet-clean $100 / room
• Ceramic Tile $5-$10 / sq. ft

2. Kitchen

• Renovation $7,500
• kitchen Counter-laminate $40 / lin. ft
• Kitchen counter-marble $75 / lin. ft

3. Security System

• Alarm System $2,500
• Alarm Monitoring $30 / month

4. Deck

• Pressure Treatment $15-$25 /sq. ft
• Custom Designed & Built $50-$75 / sq. ft.

5. Retrofit

• Doorbell System $100-$120
• Hardwired Smoke Detector $75-$125

These estimates reflect the average basic costs for supplies and installation of building materials in United States and Canada. Costs may vary depending on regions, upgrades, complexity, and disposal fees.

For complimentary copies of our Residential Construction and Remodeling Estimates cost guide, please visit http://www.pillartopost.com/home-repair-cost-upgrade-guide.aspx

Wood-destroying organisms (termites) cause North American homeowners over two billion dollars in damages each year. These destructive pests primarily feed on wood, but also damage paper, books, insulation, and even swimming pool liners and filtration systems. Wood destroying organisms are often referred to as the silent destroyer because they may be causing damage to your home without you knowing it. A trained inspector is usually required to identify the problem, and will be necessary if you do have an infestation. Read on to learn more about how to protect your home from these common pests.

* When should I suspect I have a problem? Homeowners rarely see termites;

they are sneaky insects that hide themselves deep in wood and soil. Finding signs of termite activity in your yard is pretty common, but if you see winged termites indoors it almost always indicates an infestation warranting treatment.

* What will a professional look for to determine the extent of the problem?

Inspection and treatment require special skills and technology. A professional pest controller can help. Professionals will look for telltale “mud tubes” or shelter tubes, which are solid evidence of termite activity. They will also look for thin, "bubbled" or distorted areas of paint on wooden surfaces, especially if these feel cool to the touch. Finally, professional inspectors will check any wooden building parts (especially if they are important support structures) that may be beginning to "sag" unexpectedly.

* What are my treatment options?

Treatment options vary considerably with the species of termite, extent, and degree of infestation. Chemical treatment, in-ground baiting systems, and fumigation are the most common treatment types. Federal statues strictly regulate pesticide use and guarantee the safety of chemicals for termite control when used by qualified professionals. Regardless of which method or product is selected, it is important to have an experienced technician treat the problem.

This is a recient find in a crawlspace. Luckly I entered from the opposite end and didnt have to swim out.

If you think this looks like a dug well. It sure is!!

Next time you are in a crawlspace please be careful where you go.

Is your house releasing all of it's "Hot air"?

One of the most common conditions found in a home inspection is a bathroom vent not venting to the outside. When it's first discovered repair time and costs can generally be considered very minor, nothing more than some time and duct tape. If not addressed quickly the future damages can be quite expensive to repair sometimes even requiring a new roof.

Dont let the small things turn into big ones.

Detecting and Addressing Radon Contamination in the Home Many homeowners are increasingly concerned about the possible presence of radon in their homes – and with good reason. You can’t see, smell, or taste radon, but it is the leading cause of lung cancer deaths among nonsmokers in North America, and it could be present at a dangerous level in your home. The good news is that if radon is detected, steps can be taken to remedy the problem. January has been designated National Radon Action Month; learn the facts and take action.

WHAT IS THE SOURCE OF RADON?

Radon is naturally occurring odorless, colorless, radioactive gas that is formed by the ongoing decay of uranium in soil, rocks, sediments, and even well or ground water. While radon that escapes into the atmosphere is not harmful, dangerously high concentrations can build up indoors, exposing residents to possible health risks.

HOW DOES RADON ENTER THE HOME?

Radon gas can migrate into the home in several ways. Openings or cracks in basement walls or floors are common avenues. Sumps, basement drains, and spaces between gas or water fittings can also allow radon into the structure.

HOW CAN MY CLIENTS FIND OUT ABOUT RADON IN A HOME THEY ARE CONSIDERING FOR PURCHASE?

A Pillar To Post Home Inspector can conduct a Radon test as either part of the home inspection process or on its own. An inspector will set up the testing equipment and report on the results once the proper measurement procedure is complete. If an elevated level of radon is detected, steps can be taken to lessen the concentration inside the home.

REDUCING THE LEVELS OF RADON IN THE HOME

Radon mitigation methods can include sealing likely entry points, improving ventilation, and a process called soil depressurization, which vents air from the house back into the surrounding soil, reducing the level of radon that can enter the home. Professional mitigation services can provide recommendations for a home’s specific conditions.