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Alan Stevens

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Remodeing hints

01-23-09
Alan Stevens

Most homeowners have never tackled a major renovation project. For those who have, each has a few helpful hints they are more than happy to pass onto the contractor.

I have one such customer in Washinton, DC who has not only been easy to work with, but maintained a great disposition throughout the entire process. Each time something came to her mind, she was eager to pass it along to me. Our combined efforts generated this list:

1. Make sure you've selected a contractor who understands not only his processes but symphathises with the fact that you are litterally living in the construction zone and helps you plan in advance.

2. Pack all everything in the area being renovated in boxes and move to a safe place. This keeps them dust free and easy to find when it is time to unpack.

3. Cover all floors with site protection. Carpet may be covered with plastic specially designed to adhear to it. Hardwoods may be covered with luan.

4. Cover all vents with plastic. Cut plastic to fit over each duct and intake and tape them closed. This prevents the spread of dust throughout the house.

5. Plan in advance. Talk to your Contractor about waste disposal. High quality Contractors will provide a dumpster for larger jobs or schedule a daily trash removal. Make sure your contractor leaves the area at least broom clean and free of debris each day.

6. If you have having work done in your kitchen, set up a table somewhere in your home near an outlet and a water souce. Set a microwave up on the table, keep a refridgerator near your microwave (small refridgerators are easy to rent or purchase).

7. Keep essential items handy: basic food that can be microwaved, condiments, cereal, microwave-safe dishes and utensils, dishcloths, dishwasher soap, paper plates and cups, coffee, coffee pot and sugar/creamer, paper towels, napkins, and garbage bags.

8. Plan on eating out some days. Its a great excuse to get away and leave the cooking to someone else.

9. Stockpile restaurant coupons for the nights when you really want to eat out.

10. Sitback, relax and enjoy the experience.

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Wet basement?

01-22-09
Alan Stevens

Most homeonwer's can't escape it; water existing in or around a home's foundation gives homeowners and contractors nightmares. A waterproof basement doesn't just happen-it requires taking a look at all exterior and interior factors.


From the Inside Out

It's not just exterior moisture that presents a problem. Many maintenance systems, such as heating and air conditioning systems, water and sewage pipes, and electrical wires, are installed in the basement that give off condensation and over time, their deterioration can lead to water damage in the basement.

Frequent inspection is key when ensuring a waterproof basement. Make sure that all pipes are insulated to prevent condensation build up. Inspect the heating and air conditioning system's drain pans, vents, filters, and ductwork insulation and clean and replace as needed. Check all vent all ventilation systems including water heater, exhaust fans, dryer vents, etc., to make sure they are in proper working condition.


Exterior Causes

Moisture and stains on the walls of the basement are indicators of a basement leak. The moisture and stains are often result of a leak or seepage through the basement wall. Moisture often beings to seep through at the area where the floor and walls join or along cracks that appear in the wall or floor.

Thee varibles are the likely cause of your problem. First, the original workmanship may be poor and or old. Second, the house may have settled, causing cracks in either the floor or walls. Finally, water pressure from the outside may have built up and be forcing water through the walls.

Several options are available to ensure a waterproof basement. Sometimes, the basement repair is as simple as applying mortar to cracks in the walls to prevent a leaky basement. In other cases, the installation of drains and special spray foams, asphalts, and other materials are required to waterproof a basement. Its best to speak to a trained professional and seek expert advice.

If you have a damp basement or smell mildew or mold, these may be indicators that you to have a water problem and need help. For additional assistance, please give us a call for a free inspection. We'll send over an expert to assess the situation and help you plot out a course of action.

Alan
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