XMWare

2018-02-21T08:01:00

(BPT) – House hunting can feel like an adventurous new chapter in your life. If you’re lucky enough to find the property that checks off all the “must have” boxes — appearance, size, price, location — it’s easy to fall in love.

Not so fast. Before making an offer on any property, it’s smart to take a deeper look at the overall structure and its systems, just to make sure warning signs of major and costly problems are not hiding in plain sight. If the house holds more issues than your budget (and drive to renovate) can handle, it might be best to walk away.

Of course, once the offer is accepted, it’s always a smart idea to hire a third-party home inspector to take an in-depth look at the property. In the meantime, one last pass-through with this checklist in hand can give you peace of mind about taking the next step.

Exterior: Walk around all four sides of the house, scanning it from ground to rooftop. Note the condition of the doors and window frames, and look for cracked or peeling paint or signs of loose siding. Higher up, eye the chimney, making sure it appears straight and is in good condition, while the gutters and drainpipes should be in place and functional.

Roof: Ideally, the roof would be 10 years old or less, so scan the roof for the classic warning signs of aging and neglect. Things like curled and missing shingles, dark stains, moss growth and signs of sagging can signal serious issues. (A home inspector can confirm if full replacement is needed, or if a few simple repairs would stabilize things for another decade or so.)

Yard: Take note of the landscaping. Is there a slope angled away from the house, or is there a potential for a flooded basement after a major rainfall? Mature trees provide lots of shade, but watch for overhanging branches, as these can break off in a storm and do major damage to the roof. Finally, take note of the condition of the driveway and sidewalks.

Foundation: The sight of a few hairline cracks in the cement is no cause for panic. Do look for telltale signs of serious issues, such as widening cracks, water stains and bulges. It doesn’t hurt to bring a level to make sure the walls are straight.

Plumbing: In addition to checking basement and under-sink pipes for signs of leaks, scan the ceilings for water stains. Open all the faucets to check the water pressure as well as the time it takes for hot water to reach the tap.

HVAC system: Know the age of the heating and cooling systems, and check these for tags and other signs of routine maintenance. If the system is older than a decade, that can spell costly repairs and a replacement in a brief time frame. When it comes to older systems, energy efficiency is another consideration, according to Tom Tasker, product manager with Coleman Echelon Variable Capacity residential systems.

“Newer HVAC systems are remarkably more efficient when compared to those from even a decade ago, which means they keep your house comfortable for as little as half the cost,” says Tasker.

For example, Coleman’s Echelon products are rated up to 20 SEER, which stands for seasonal energy efficiency ratio. Compare these to the 10 SEER systems of 25 years ago, and that can give you an idea of what to expect in potential energy costs, he says.

Appliances: Note the age and condition of things like the refrigerator, oven and range, washer and dryer, and hot water heater. As with the HVAC, older appliances tend to consume more energy and you’ll face a shorter timeline for needed repairs and replacements.

Buying a house is a big decision, but knowing what you’re buying can go a long way in assuring you that you’ve found the right place!

2018-04-09T09:01:00

(BPT) – A bathroom remodel is on the agenda for 31 percent of homeowners in 2018, according to a survey by Lightstream, a national online lending division of SunTrust Bank. Those remodeling efforts can take many forms, but arguably the most dramatic and impactful upgrade to a bathroom is installing a new tile floor. While that may sound like a complicated undertaking that is better left to a pro, with a few simple tips, even homeowners with modest do-it-yourself experience and skill can successfully install a reasonable-sized tile bathroom floor. Even in cases where a homeowner ultimately decides to hire a pro for the job, understanding some basic tile installation practices and principles will make the project less daunting and the overall experience more positive.

Note: These tips give homeowners useful insights to consider when installing a tile bathroom floor, but do not cover every detail of the process. Homeowners should always consider local building codes and Tile Council of North America guidelines before starting any tile installation project.

* Measuring the floor — Calculate how many square feet of tile you will need, being sure to consider voids and curves for the toilet, vanity, bathtub and/or shower. Always round the measurements up to the nearest foot and then add 10 percent to avoid running out of tile.

* Preparing the surface — Remove the existing floor to include adhesives, mortars or other residues. If the substrate is concrete, patch or level it so the surface is smooth and flat. If the subfloor is wood, attach a cement backerboard like WonderBoard Lite before installing tile. Applying a waterproofing material like RedGard Crack Prevention and Waterproofing Membrane is recommended to combat the moisture and water exposure in a bathroom.

* Designing the floor — Lay out the tile in the desired pattern to determine required cuts and confirm accuracy of measured dimensions. Create a layout guide representing the pattern by popping chalk lines on the floor starting at the walls and working into the middle.

* Selecting the mortar — Choose a mortar designed for the specific type and size tile on the installation. Tiles longer than 15 inches on any side are very popular these days and require the use of large format tile mortar like ProLite that has non-slump properties to prevent lippage. After selecting the right size notched trowel, apply the mortar on the clean, dry surface in one direction to form straight, parallel lines before applying the tile.

* Selecting the grout — Choose a single-component grout like Fusion Pro that requires no mixing so filling joints is easy and fast. In addition, this single-component grout has unmatched color consistency that won’t fade and is stain proof so applying a sealer isn’t necessary. To make sure the grout color matches the tile, conduct a test by filling the joints between four tiles on a small piece of backerboard to simulate the larger installation.

* Caring for the floor — Always use pH neutral cleaning products like TileLab Grout & Tile Cleaner designed to remove dirt, stains, mold and other unwanted contaminants from tile and grout without etching, discoloring or otherwise harming the surface.

In addition to potentially saving thousands hiring a pro, the gratification and pride a homeowner enjoys after remodeling a bathroom with a new tile floor is irreplaceable. Of course, homeowners should always follow the instructions on product packaging before use so the project goes smoothly and all warranty requirements remain intact. For comprehensive details on every phase of tile installation, visit the Custom Building Products website at www.custombuildingproducts.com.

2017-12-12T10:01:00

(BPT) – The weather outside is frightful, and the week ahead calls for falling temperatures, maybe even snow. That makes it easy to dream of warmer spring weather, but to plan for it? To sit and strategize for making the most of next year’s lawn and landscape projects? That seems like no small feat.

It doesn’t have to be.

The good news is that spring will be here before you know it, and now is the best time to work with your local landscape professional to set the stage for a healthy spring. With the expertise and knowledge of a professional, you’ll be well on your way to get a thriving landscape you’ll enjoy come spring.

Finding the right professional for you

Quality lawn care and landscape professionals are all around you, but finding the perfect one can be challenging if you go it alone. Instead, consult the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) professional directory at www.loveyourlandscape.org/find-a-pro/. You’ll have access to the NALP’s comprehensive directory and can find inspiration through the organization’s expert advice columns and idea center, motivating you to take your spring landscaping projects to new heights.

Making the most of your relationship with your landscape professional

The initial conversations you have with your landscape professional are essential for creating a beautiful outdoor space. When working with a professional, you can become more prepared by considering the answers to these questions in advance of your first meeting.

* What’s important to you? You don’t need to know every last detail, but you should have a broad understanding of what you want. Do you want to entertain? Have space to garden or create a private area to enjoy quietly by yourself? Determining what you want your yard to be and how it will be used can help your landscape professional realize your vision.

* What’s your budget? When it comes to dreaming of the perfect landscape project, the limit is your imagination. But once you place some real-world practicality behind it, the limit will ultimately be your budget. So, how much are you willing to spend? It’s a good idea to have a rough estimate of this figure in your head before discussing plans with your landscape professional. Relaying this information to them will allow them to tailor a project that matches your expectations and your budget.

* What plants are best for your property? Flowers, shrubs and trees are all integral to any landscape project and you should have an idea of what you’d like to see. If you don’t know, visit your local greenhouse or nursery for inspiration and gain a greater understanding of native plants that fare well in your environment.

* What level of lawn care is needed? Whether or not you have sprawling acres of land, a healthy lawn of any size and shape sets the foundation for a beautiful landscape. Your lawn care professional can review with you how to grow and maintain a lawn through all the seasons. Consider if weed control, mowing, aeration, fertilization and irrigation may be needed as part of your lawn care program. A lawn care specialist can help you budget and plan for these tasks now, even if your lawn is covered in frost or snow!

It’s never too early to start planning

The long weeks of winter are here, but now is the perfect time to formalize your plans for a gorgeous, spring lawn and landscape. A professional can help you reach every goal you’ve dreamed about. So start planning today. Your home will benefit from your preparation — and on those cold mornings, it sure helps to dream of spring, doesn’t it?

2018-01-25T15:19:00

(BPT) – Daydreaming of spring is something everyone does during the coldest days of winter — even pests. The promise of warmer weather on the horizon is also a boon for the numerous species of pests that inhabit your area, and when the temperature perks up, many of those pests come out of hiding and start looking towards your home for food and shelter.

Protecting your home and property from seasonal intruders is a year-long job, but your task could be simpler if proper preparations are made in advance of spring’s first bloom. To help you do just that, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) offers these tips for keeping your property pest-free this year:

* Identify the threats. To start your pest prevention effectively, the first step is to know what to look for. The winter months saw an influx of furry critters trying to invade homes, but springtime pests are more often of the six-legged variety. Ants, flies, bees/hornets, ticks, mosquitoes and termites are all common nuisance pests during this season. Visit www.pestworld.org to learn more about what threats are most common in your area and how to identify them.

* Block the openings. Even the smallest pests are able to find a way into your home, and in many cases that way is through your windows. Keep windows shut during swarming periods for insects like ants or termites and install screens and door sweeps to keep winged intruders, like flies, mosquitoes and hornets, out.

* Make your yard less inviting. Don’t allow your yard to be a base of operations for future pest activity. Keeping your grass freshly cut makes the space less appealing to pests, and trimming trees and bushes near your home is a great way to prevent easy access for potential travelers. Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, you should also remove standing water from your property. Even an upside-down Frisbee can collect enough water to be a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Fill wet patches with dirt, if necessary, and tip over any cups, flower pots or bowls that collected water during the winter.

* Look for signs of activity. A pest infestation can’t stay hidden forever. Alive or dead insects in your home are a sign of a larger problem, as is damage to wood if you live in an area where termites are prevalent. Signs of a potential problem may exist outside, as well. Take a stroll around your home and check your roof for hornet nests. They will be small in the spring but will grow larger throughout the season if action isn’t taken.

* Contact the experts. If you’re looking for even more strategies to reduce the risk of pests infesting your home or you suspect your home has already succumbed to an infestation of some type, your local pest control professional can help you rid your home of existing threats and shore it up to prevent against new invaders. Visit www.pestworld.org to find a local exterminator in your area. It’s the easiest way to turn your spring pest problem from growing to gone.

2018-01-31T13:01:00

(BPT) – As the days grow longer and the snow begins to recede, homeowners will once again venture outdoors to get their yards and lawn into tip-top shape for summer fun. But just like your lawn has been hibernating over the long winter, so too has your lawn mower and other small engines. Even if you properly winterized your mower, there are a few things you’ll need to do to ensure it works like it should. To get there, follow these five steps.

1. Freshen up with a new tank of gas. It only takes 30 days for the gasoline in your mower to start to break down, which can harm your engine. If you have any gas left in the tank from the fall, empty it with a siphon and fill the tank with fresh fuel straight from the gas station. For optimal results, use ethanol-free gas (E0).

2. Don’t forget to check the oil. A new season means new oil. This will ensure your motor will run smoothly and it will go a long way to prevent overheating. Be sure to check the owner’s manual to make sure you put in the right kind of oil and the proper amount.

3. Two components to clean and replace. Along with keeping your mower fed with fresh gas and oil, at the beginning of each season there are two components to either clean or replace: the spark plug and the air filter. To inspect the spark plug, simply clean the area around the cylinder and use a wrench to remove the plug. Check for any damage or black coating, and if the plug appears damaged, replace it. As far as the air filter goes, it’s best to start each season with a new one. Consult the owner’s manual for reference on how to do this and always consider using genuine parts from the manufacturer.

4. Sharpen the blade. A dull lawnmower blade rips and tears blades of grass in your lawn, making them more prone to disease and discoloration. A sharp blade helps promote a greener, fuller and healthier lawn. Most local hardware stores or small-engine shops offer blade-sharpening services.

5. Maybe you need a new engine? If you’ve gone through all the maintenance tips above and you’re still having problems with your mower, it’s probably time for a new one. When making a purchasing decision, focus on the most essential component: the engine. Ideally, you want an engine that offers minimal maintenance, easy starting and smooth, effective operation. The Kohler 5400 Series is a new option featuring a Triple-Balance System, which significantly reduces vibration for a more comfortable ride.

To learn more about how the right engine can improve the performance of your mower, visit www.KohlerEngines.com.

2018-01-31T13:43:00

(BPT) – We’ve all heard the old adage, “you only get one chance to make a first impression.” Well, that statement holds true when you’re talking about a home. Whether it’s the landscaping, the siding, the front door, the windows, the paint, the driveway or the outdoor furniture, the initial reaction to the exterior appearance of a home is permanent. Quite literally, the curb appeal of your home can influence the experience of visiting guests. In addition, 63 percent of homebuyers will visit a home they like after viewing it online, according to the National Association of Realtors. So, investing the time, energy and money to maximize the curb appeal of your home makes a lot of sense. Unfortunately, an important element of curb appeal that is often overlooked is the mailbox.

There are more than 50 million curbside mailboxes in the U.S. While these mailboxes serve an important daily function, they also set the tone for a home’s curb appeal. Rather than feature a mailbox on a plain wooden or metal post, placing one in a brick, stone or block enclosure is a popular alternative that can be done without hiring a contractor or being a skilled mason. Building an attractive mailbox column is a DIY project any homeowner can now handle using a versatile block system like Stonegate Country Manor from Keystone Hardscapes.

Note: Wearing gloves and eye protection is recommended.

Steps for building a block mailbox column:

* Mark off the mailbox footprint with paint and remove the dirt from inside until the hole is 12 inches deep. Level the bottom with a hand tamper.

* Add 6 inches of crushed stone a few inches at a time and compact with a hand tamper.

* Install the first course by centering the blocks inside the mailbox footprint and place 6 inches below finished grade. Check front to back and side to side with a level and adjust as necessary with sand and a hammer.

* Lay the second course of block on top of the first course of block in an alternating pattern to make sure they fit correctly. Remove the blocks and apply two quarter-inch-wide strips of QUIKRETE Polyurethane Construction Adhesive on each block in the first course approximately 3 inches away from the inside and outside edge before attaching the second course.

* Repeat the process until you complete the column, being sure to alternate the course layouts as indicated by the directions. Be sure to use a level on each course.

* Once the seventh course is completed, fill the core with the remaining crushed stone so the mailbox has a location to rest. Build the mailbox layer by placing the first course of blocks and securing with concrete adhesive as indicated by the directions.

* Use spray foam to seal behind the face of the mailbox and use QUIKRETE Non-Shrink Grout to fill around the mailbox so that it’s flush and the door opens and closes freely.

* Install the second mailbox course and secure with concrete adhesive before filling around the mailbox again with grout.

* Finally, secure the mailbox in place with concrete adhesive before installing a cap of your choice.

There are a variety of block mailbox column styles, colors and sizes to match the look of any home. In addition, you can easily update your front or back yard with fireplaces, fire pits, kitchens, benches and retaining walls by downloading block system project designs and step-by-step instructions like Stonegate Country Manor at www.KeystoneHardscapes.com.