Do It Yourself!
By Michael on Oct 30, 2007 in Contractors, Renovation, Security | 0 Comments
Indicators of Home Repair Fraud
A salesperson, with no local connections, comes to your door and offers to do home repair work for substantially less than market price.
A salesperson coming to your door saying you need siding, storm windows, or other home improvement. The salesperson also wants you to sign a contract on the spot. The [...]
By Michael on Oct 30, 2007 in Plumbing, Security | 0 Comments
If you think a pipe already has frozen, do not wait for nature to take its course, thaw the pipe as soon as possible or call a licensed plumber for help.
1. Open all faucets
One or more pipes may not be completely frozen and even a small water flow might thaw the obstruction.
2. If it does [...]
By Michael on Oct 30, 2007 in Doors, Energy-saving, Flooring, Heating, Kitchen, Plumbing, Renovation, Security, Windows | 0 Comments
Attic - look for evidence of roof leaks, also openings that permit entry of bats or other pests. Inspect insulation, rafters, ventilation openings, chimney and side walls.
Basement windows - those on grade or slightly above grade, should be examined for decayed frames. replace decayed frames and missing trim.
Bathroom - check for dripping faucets, leaking shower [...]
By Michael on Oct 29, 2007 in Contractors, Security | 0 Comments
1. Today only discounts.
If a contractor ever tells you that the price is available for “today only”, it’s time to show him the door. Quite often they’ll provide you a story that by signing today you’re entitled to a “model home” or “advertising discount”.
The story enters around the need to use your home as a [...]
By Michael on Oct 29, 2007 in Contractors, Security | 0 Comments
Your contract should outline exactly what work will be done in the renovation. It should include all drawings that can be done in advance of the project. It should also include a timetable for the project, with start and end dates. A payment schedule is crucial and should be based not on time spent on [...]
By Michael on Oct 24, 2007 in Bathroom, Carpet, Contractors, Cooling, Design, Doors, Flooring, Heating, Home Decor, Kitchen, Landscaping, Painting, Plumbing, Renovation, Roofing, Security, Siding, Windows | 2 Comments
1. For return on investment, the best home renovation is to upgrade an old bathroom. Kitchens come in second. If the only reason for renovating a house is to increase the possible sale price, the best way is to go with renovations that research shows return more than the cost to renovate. Adding extensions and [...]
By Michael on Oct 23, 2007 in Bathroom, Carpet, Contractors, Cooling, Design, Doors, Flooring, Heating, Home Decor, Kitchen, Landscaping, Painting, Plumbing, Renovation, Roofing, Security, Siding, Windows | 1 Comment
Top 4 tips you need to know before even thinking of renovating your home.
1. Do it now
If you’re looking to remodel this year, now is a good time. You may even be able to get your contractor on the phone… on the first try!
The remodeling market has slowed down and contractors may not be as [...]
