Roof repair is one of the most important work you can have done on your house; a roof is arguably the most important part of a home’s structure.

A good roof does more than just protect you from the elements; it also retains heat and keeps your energy costs down. That’s why, if you need roof work done, you need to hire the right roofing contractor.

Choosing the right roofing team can be tricky; roofing is an important job, so you need to make sure that you’re thoroughly vetting the people you hire. It pays to have questions in mind for any roofers you might hire.

Keep reading to learn five important questions that need answering before you let a roofing contractor work on your roof.

1. Are You Licensed and Insured?

The first thing you need to determine about a roofing company is whether or not they’re legally able to do the job. Contractors need a license for residential roofing, with specific requirements that vary by state.

Unlicensed contractors are often of lower quality, and worse, contracts with them aren’t legally enforceable. That means that if they do a poor job or damage your home, there’s not much you can do to make them fix it.

As for insurance, there are two kinds that every good roofing company should have: liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance.

Liability insurance offers you protection in case there’s an accident that damages your home, whereas workers’ compensation covers any harm that might come to the contractors themselves.

You can also ask if the company is bonded, which indicates that they are trustworthy and ethical.

You shouldn’t need to take the roofing contractor at their word, either–ask for physical proof of insurance and licensing. It should be easy for the roofers to provide you with a physical copy of each.

2. What Is Your Warranty?

A good warranty is key to the long-term health of your roof. It’s also a sign that your roofing team of choice is confident and trustworthy–a solid warranty means they have faith in their work.

There are once again two things to look for here: a manufacturer’s warranty and a labor warranty.

The manufacturer’s warranty is determined by the actual manufacturer of the product that the roofers are installing.

For instance, say you’re getting your roof re-shingled. The roofing company will be using a certain brand of shingle, and that shingle’s manufacturer will be responsible for setting the shingle’s warranty.

A good manufacturer’s warranty indicates that the roofers are working with quality materials.

A labor warranty, on the other hand, covers the contractor’s work itself, It provides you a safety net if, after the work is done, you discover a leak or some other issue in the new roof that requires attention.

3. Do You Have References?

Having positive references to share helps a roofing contractor build trust with new customers. Whether you’re looking for residential or commercial roofing, it’s a good idea to get references from any contractor you’re considering.

Good references show that a contractor does good work and has gained a positive reputation–clear indicators that they’re a good choice for you to hire.

References can also give you an idea of what kind of work the contractor has experience with. Are the references they provide relevant to the work you’re hiring them for? If not, that could be a red flag.

You can also get a feel for the areas that the roofing company services; hiring local is always a good call, for reasons we’ll discuss below.

Reputable roofing companies like Point Roofing will have no issue providing references upon request. They can provide three to five references that are relevant to your area and your particular roofing needs.

4. Are You Local?

This might seem like an odd question–surely, if a roofing team is willing to work on your roof, they must be local, right? Otherwise, they wouldn’t service your area at all.

The truth is, many roofers act as storm-chasers, moving around the country and swooping in on communities that have just suffered a tornado or other event that caused widespread roof damage.

These so-called drive-by roofers may lack licenses, and almost certainly won’t offer a warranty. They don’t need to; by the time you notice an issue with their work, they’ll be long gone anyway.

They may also ignore local roofing codes, which can lead to all sorts of issues.

The best way to avoid these roofers is to ask contractors for a phone number and address. If they can’t provide you with a local phone number or office address, they’re likely not from your area.

In addition to being safer, local contractors are easier to research, which will also help you make a hiring decision.

5. Who Deals With Problems?

Communication is key on any kind of construction project, and roofing is no exception. You need to know upfront who to talk to about any problems that might arise.

Part of this has to do with the actual roofing team that will be at your house; who is going to be overseeing the work itself? Will the workers be employees of the roofing company, or will they be subcontractors?

The subcontractor issue is particularly important. If the roofing company you choose uses subcontractors, that’s not necessarily an issue; you should ask those subcontractors the same questions we’ve already covered, though.

In a larger sense, who do you reach out to if there’s a bigger issue at play? Who do you contact if you discover a problem after the work is done?

Get a specific name and title if possible. The last thing you want is to get passed around to everyone in the office before you can get your problem resolved.

Hire the Right Roofing Contractor

A good roofing contractor can tackle a variety of jobs: shingle work, repairs, and even full replacements. The difficulty is in finding a roofing company that you can trust; these five questions will help you select the right roofers for you.

After your roof revamp, what’s next for your home? Visit our home and garden blog for fresh ideas on home décor and renovations.

 

Do you have a tree in your yard that you’re trying to get rid of? Do you feel that one of the trees on your property needs to be pruning? If so, then you need to learn all that you can about how to trim a tree properly.

Doing so can help you improve the curb appeal of your house, protect your trees from disease, and ensure that they keep a healthy aesthetic.

See below for an in-depth guide on how to trim a tree properly and why you should put your tree pruning needs in the hands of experienced professionals. You’ll be glad that you did!

1. Know the Signs

Not enough homeowners are educated on when a tree needs to be trimmed. There are several signs that you need to schedule proper tree pruning to keep your trees happy and healthy. Here are the telltale signs that will dictate when to trim trees.

• Dead limbs
• Overgrowth
• Damage after a storm
• Branches hanging over power lines
• Broken or split branches
• Crooked trees
• Weak or brittle branches
• Signs of rotting
• Braches that cross over each other
• Cracks in the branches or bark

If you notice any of these signs, then you need to call the great folks over at Dawkins Tree Care. They’ll help you keep your trees in great shape and nurture them for the long haul.

If you’ll notice, most of the signs above indicate an upcoming problem. For example, dead limbs can be a sign that the tree is suffering from dry rot, which can start at the branches and slowly make its way to the trunk. Thankfully, trimming off the branches can cut the disease off at the source.

Then there are preventative measures to ensure an accident doesn’t happen in the future, such as cutting off branches that are hanging over power lines.

2. Perform Regular DIY Tree Pruning

For those of you that don’t know, there is a vast difference between DIY tree pruning and professional tree trimming performed by a tree trimming service.

Generally, DIY tree trimming involves less risky pruning. For example, you could confidently trim your young, growing trees by learning a few tricks of the trade. However, when you need to trim dead branches at the top of a fully-grown tree, it’s best to leave it to the professionals.

To perform DIY tree pruning, all you need to know is the basics. First, you should make sure that you only trim the stems that are growing from the branch, not the branch itself. This can ensure that your tree heals from the trimming quickly.

Next, you’ll want to make sure you’re pruning the branch the right way. You want to avoid tearing off bark at all costs. Make sure that, if you’re cutting off a branch, make a wedge on the branch, leaving about an inch between it and the base of the tree.

Start cutting off the branch about half a foot away from the wedge you created until it falls off. Then, you can cut off the brand side of the stem and leave as little of a nub as possible.

3. Know When Not to Trim Trees

Did you know that there are certain times when you shouldn’t trim a tree? This is, once again, a fact that most homeowners aren’t aware of.

First, try to avoid pruning when it’s wet outside. If you trim a tree while it’s wet outside (such as after several hours of rain), then it can leave your tree susceptible to airborne diseases. It’s a quick way to cause a tree to rot.

Second, don’t ever trim your branches during the fall, since the fall is a time where most trees are getting ready to wind down and tough it out for the winter months ahead. Instead, you want to prune in the spring or summer, when trees are growing and strengthening.

4. Prioritize Safety

No matter how misshapen or rough your tree’s branches look, it isn’t worth risking your own safety to perform. If you’re going to prune your trees, then make sure you have a stable way to do so. Do not, under any circumstances, climb up the tree to trim branches.

If the branches seem unstable or too high up, then it’s best to leave it to a professional tree trimming service.

They have the manpower, experience, and equipment to get the job done safely. Also, they have business insurance in place to make sure you’re covered in the case of an emergency.

5. Contact Tree Trimming Companies

You know how the old saying goes “if a job is worth doing, it’s worth doing right.” That certainly applies to your need to have your trees trimmed.

Be sure to reach out to a tree trimming service the next time you need your trees pruned. They’ll get the job done quickly and can guarantee desirable results.

As a bonus, you can start to build a business relationship with them. That way, they’ll provide frequent service to your trees and extend their life. You’ll have someone that you can contact at any time.

How to Trim a Tree Properly: Call the Experts

Now that you have seen an in-depth guide on how to trim a tree properly, be sure to use this information to your advantage.

Make sure that you hire a trusted tree trimming company. That way, you have business insurance to provide you with financial protection if a branch does damage to your property, a worker gets injured, etc.

Be sure to browse our website for more articles on tree trimming, as well as many other topics that you’ll find helpful.

 

Window tinting is one of the most overlooked home improvement projects.

For a lot of homeowners, window tinting doesn’t seem to be worth the time and money. But what they don’t realize is that home window tint offers some benefits that make it well worth doing.

In this article, we will show you the advantages of home window tints. Some you might know about already, but others may come as a complete surprise.

So without further ado, let’s get started on window tinting benefits.

Energy Efficiency: Easily Reduce Energy Costs

One of the most practical uses of home window tints is their capacity to help reduce home energy costs. If you live in an area where summers are extremely hot, then you need home window tint. It will block out UV rays, thus prevent heat from entering your home and increasing cooling costs.

Also, home window tints can help save you money during winter by blocking out cold air.

Security: Protect Your Home and Family Against Threats

Apart from reducing home energy costs, home window tint can also improve security. Window tinting reduces light penetration and prevents criminals from seeing into your home.

It also offers privacy protection against prying eyes, thus giving homeowners a greater sense of home security.

UV Protection: Reduces Damage to Home and Health

UV rays are one of the main causes of skin cancer. Yet, most homeowners don’t think twice about allowing them into their homes.

Those who apply window tints will be protected against UV rays. These rays can damage furniture, clothing, electronics, and cause cancer.

Again blocking out these harmful rays helps save you money in the future with fewer expenses for repairs or medical treatments.

Protection of Antiques and Furnishings: Protect Valuable Belongings

Home window tint is essential for homeowners with antiques and other valuable materials. Without tints, these items must be stored in basements where they are not subjected to extreme temperatures.

With home window tints, homeowners can protect their home’s belongings against fading damage by UV rays and heat. They will also keep these possessions free from condensation caused by temperature variations.

Privacy Tint: Newlyweds Will Love This One

Homeowners who install home window tinting are essentially installing a second set of curtains on their windows. However, unlike curtains, homeowners have the option of controlling how much light comes through their home window tint. Home window tints provide homeowners with much greater levels of privacy and control over light.

If you are a newlywed couple, home window tints will likely be very useful to keep the prying eyes of curious people outside from seeing inside your home.

Reduce Heating Costs: Use Less Energy for Cooling

When summer days arrive and temperatures outside rise, many homeowners turn on their air conditioning to stay cool. This then requires them to pay extra money on energy costs because they have to use more electricity for cooling.

Many homeowners find home window tints perfect for the summer months when heat is entering their home more than they want. Home window tint will help block out the sun and UV rays and prevent unwanted heat from entering the home through windows. This ultimately increases the comfort level of your home in the hot summer months while also helping you save money on home cooling bills.

Aid Medical Conditions: Good for Those With Light or Heat Sensitivity

Home window tints can be excellent for those who are sensitive to either sunlight or excessive heat due to medical conditions such as lupus and XP. When home window tinting is installed, it helps to keep home interiors cooler during summer.

This, in turn, can help reduce the discomfort caused by excessive heat exposure for those with these medical conditions.

Reduce Glare: Prevent Eye Strain and Improve Vision

Many home window tints are designed to reduce the intensity of light entering a home through windows. This helps homeowners improve the indoor brightness levels without having to adjust curtains.

This reduces the likelihood of eye strain, fatigue, and headaches in some individuals who spend a lot of time inside buildings.

Improve Curb Appeal: Make Your House Stand Out From the Rest

People often buy home window tints not just to protect home interiors from UV rays or heat. Many homeowners choose home window tinting to improve home exterior curb appeal. This makes their home stand out from the rest of the homes in their neighborhood.

Homeowners can select a color for home window tint that is fashionable or attractive to them and suits their home’s style.

Increase Home Value: Add a Layer of Protection Against Natural Disasters

Home window tinting can be an excellent home improvement project for homeowners looking to give their home a better level of protection against natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, or earthquakes.

Home window tints provide added resistance to glass breaking due to the increased strength from home window tinting.

This is because home window tint film is often stronger than regular home window glass. The extra layer of protection offered by home window tints can help add years of life for home occupants when a natural disaster does occur. It may also reduce the likelihood of injuries for those living inside during natural disaster occurrences.

But to enjoy these benefits, you must work with a reliable company offering window tinting services. And one of the reliable window tinting companies is LC Custom Interiors.

Home Window Tint Is Worth It

Home window tint benefits are many. It is up to homeowners to choose home window tints that best suit their home décor, needs, and preferences.

The top benefits of tinted windows provide a good starting point for homeowners looking to install home window tints.

Did you find this article helpful? Then keep visiting our website to learn more.

 

A driveway free from cracks and potholes not only improves the curb appeal of your home but also protects your car from potential damage. Replacing a driveway can be a large project for your home, but one that is well worth the cost if your driveway shows severe signs of aging.

So how much does a driveway cost? Here is a breakdown of common driveway materials and general prices.

Types of Driveway Materials

There are several different types of driveway materials available. Which you choose will largely depend on how long you want your driveway to last and what sort of look you want for your home.

Concrete

Concrete is no doubt the most popular choice for driveway material because it can last up to 40 years, needs very little maintenance, and can bear heavy vehicles. One drawback to concrete is that it takes several days to set, so you would not be able to use your driveway during that time.

Asphalt

An asphalt driveway is a less expensive alternative to concrete and sets in a matter of hours instead of days. It also handles freezing temperatures much better than concrete but can become extremely hot in the summertime. Asphalt will also last about 15-20 years.

Chip Seal

This type of driveway is a mixture of asphalt and crushed stones. Chip seal is a great option for those who want the look of asphalt for less money. However, it only lasts about 10 years and is easily damaged by a snowplow.

Gravel

Gravel is the least expensive driveway option and is common in more rural areas. This mix of rock, sand, and clay can last up to 100 years but will need regular maintenance.

Pavers

Since they come in a wide variety of textures and colors, pavers offer more flexibility in style. They can be made from concrete, brick, or cobblestone. This option is more expensive because it takes longer to install.

Signs You Need a New Driveway

The weight of your vehicle will cause small cracks over time. With exposure to the elements and continued pressure from your vehicle, these cracks can develop into potholes. These are some of the most obvious signs that you need to replace your driveway.

Also, look for puddles forming on the surface of your driveway. This can be a sign of drainage or structural issues. These puddles can also lead to potholes.

For asphalt driveways, look for undulation or warping on the surface and crumbling at the edges. These are signs that the asphalt needs to be replaced.

How Much Does a Driveway Cost?

The cost of a new driveway will depend on the size and materials you want to use. Here is a list of driveway prices by material.

• Concrete $8-$18 per square foot
• Asphalt $7-$13 per square foot
• Chip Seal $5-$10 per square foot
• Gravel $1-$2 per square foot
• Pavers $10-$50 per square foot
• Rubber $10-$25 per square foot

The overall cost by total square foot:

• 400 $800-$6,000
• 600 $1,200-$9,000
• 800 $1,600-12,000
• 1,000 $2,000-15,000

Installing a Driveway

How much does a driveway cost? Once you decide it’s time to replace your driveway, whether due to damage or you simply want a new look, there are a wide variety of choices available. Which you choose will affect how much money you will spend.

Whatever you choose, having a driveway free from cracks and damage will improve the overall look of your home.

Be sure to check out the rest of our website for more helpful articles and information.

Are you wondering if you need exterior house painting services?

The paint on the exterior of your home is essential, it can contribute to your energy efficiency, prevent pests, protect your home from extreme weather, and even affect the air quality inside of your home. For these reasons, keeping your exterior paint updated is essential.

However, you might be wondering how to recognize if you need to have your home’s exterior painted. Fortunately, by knowing the signs and monitoring the exterior of your home, you can determine when you need to refresh the paint.

If you are wondering if you need exterior house painting services, here are several signs that you do.

Damaged Wood

One sign you need exterior house painting is if you see damaged wood. This can be caused by moisture seeping into the wood, causing it to buckle and raise. The damaged wood causes the paint to peel, which is a sign you need to sand the wood and refresh the paint.

Cracked Caulking

If you are wondering if you need house painting, one sign is cracked caulking. When the caulking starts cracking, it results in the paint raising and peeling. If you notice cracked or missing caulking, you likely need a paint job.

Fading Paint

A common sign you need an exterior paint job is if your paint is fading. This is a sign you not only need a fresh coat of paint but also need UV sealant or protectant. If your exterior paint is fading, consider hiring Ulta Home painting services.

Peeling or Cracking Paint

One reason to call a house painting service is if your paint is cracking or peeling. Damaged paint can happen for several reasons, such as age, the elements, a poor paint job, and more.

Gaps or Shrinking Wood

Have you noticed shrinking wood or gaps in the exterior of your home? If so, you likely need to schedule a paint job. This is a sign that moisture is seeping into the wood, damaging your home, the paint, and creating a mold and mildew problem.

Outdated Color

One reason to repaint your home is if you no longer like the color. A paint job can be the finishing touch to a remodel or update of your home.

Poor Curb Appeal

If your curb appeal is lacking, consider scheduling an exterior paint job. Your curb appeal can affect the value of your home, which is why keeping it updated is essential.

These Are the Signs You Need Exterior House Painting Services

By noticing these signs, you can determine when you need exterior house painting services.

One sign you need a paint refresh is if your exterior wood is damaged. You might also notice cracked caulking, fading paint, or peeling and cracking paint. Shrinking wood, an outdated color, and poor curb appeal are also signs you need to add a fresh coat of paint to your exterior.

If you notice any of these signs, schedule a paint consultation right away.

Don’t forget to browse our site for advice on home improvement, lifestyle, technology, and more.

When it comes to adorning a house, every effort to nurture and enhance the walls, the ceiling, and the corners is taken. Yet, ever considered how the floor, too, needs attention and work? Often regarded as the houses’ fifth wall, the flooring presents a large space to walk, lie down, move around stuff, and so much more. A carpet works very similarly to a table mat. Just how a table mat covers the table and prevents it from wear-tear, water spillage, dust, and dirt; carpets adorn the floor. They protect it from scratches and dust and also provide a plush feel to the feet. Over the last couple of years, carpets and rugs have emerged as a popular choice among people around the world. In addition to the above reasons for having a carpet in place, one essential feature that needs attention is the combination of carpets and decorative items. Wondering how? Well, carpets on floors work like large plain canvases that can be painted and highlighted with decor items in different colors, shapes, and sizes. So, if looking to add some jazz and character to a house, here are a few carpet and rug trends to rely upon. Have a look!

1. The Ultimate Luxury-Plush Carpets – Yes, if affluence and splendor are on the cards, then the perfect solution is a super soft, plush, foamed carpet. It adds volume, softness, and certain sophistication to the overall space. More so, it is exceptionally comforting for the feet after a long day’s work and works miraculously in both bold and light tones.
2. Playing The Color Twist – There is no doubt that single solid colors are eternal, but a bit of drama never really hurts, right? To add that sparkle and boost the energy, a dual-tone carpet or rug in contrasting colors seems to be a great choice. If the overall look of the room is more neutral and subtle, a dash of bright warm colors will work well. And if it is a vibrant space with colors around in furniture and upholstery, pick a softer and lightly blended carpet option.
3. The Dreamy Floral Look – Is there anything as soothing and rejuvenating as fresh and lovely florals? Nothing matches the soulfulness and feminity of having an intricately hand-woven rich carpet at home. Their textures and blends create a very versatile look that just can’t go wrong. Additionally, this carpet looks ethereal with any sort of home decor, lighting solutions, and wall colors.
4. The Carpet Cum Curtain Trend – The latest and the hottest trend in the home decor department is doubling up light carpets into curtains. Astonishing as it may sound, but lightly hand-crafted and embroidered carpets make for catchy curtains that easily absorb light and sound too!
5. The Geometric – Tile Vogue – This variant of carpet style has re-emerged strongly in the last couple of months. Besides other patterns like tiles, strips, polka prints, these geometrically shaped carpets are fun, colorful, and bring along vivid creativity. And most importantly they make space look bigger, fuller, and add more depth to it.
6. The Carpet Rolls – Carpet rolls are like long uncut sheets of carpet that can be laid across the room to cover larger spaces end-to-end. They leave no corners uncovered and are super easy to apply with minimum creases and seams. The uniformity and continuation of these carpets add volume and a certain type of character to the whole space flooring. Also, it is super cost-effective too!

Carpets can be a great way of expressing one’s personality – playful, subtle, sophisticated, consistent, and so much more. Also, it is an art that takes up creativity, deep thought, and effort. While choosing the appropriate carpeting idea, consider the space and its purpose, the lighting in and around, the pieces of furniture in place, and above all the vibe that resonates with one’s individuality. These trends are ruling the world and are certainly here to stay. Try them today!

Many places around the world are experiencing extreme heat this summer. And while there isn’t much you can do right now to get the temperature to drop back down, there are things you can do to protect yourself and your property from this weather. And especially if you have a garden at home, you’re going to want to take steps to ensure that your plants don’t all shrivel up and die after being left out in the heat and sun for too long.

To help you see how you can counteract this weather phenomenon, here are three tips for protecting your garden from extreme heat.

Put Out Some Additional Mulch

Oftentimes, it’s not the heat that bothers the plants in your garden as much as it is the sun burning down on them. Especially for new plants or plants that don’t have a large root system, being scorched by the sun for even just a short period of time can be devastating.

In situations like this, what your plants need is an added layer of protection between them and the sun. To accomplish this, it’s wise to put some additional mulch in your garden or on your flower beds. With this added layer of mulch—be it wood chips, leaves, straw, or any other organic material—there will be more that the sun has to go through in order to reach your plants, which can help keep them out of the direct sunlight and maintain more of their moisture.

Water At The Right Times

When it’s hot and dry outside, your plants need you to be very careful about when and how you water them.

While you might think that watering your garden when it’s the hottest outside would do the most good for cooling off and protecting your plants, the opposite is actually true. If you water during the hottest, sunniest parts of the day, the water you’re using is essentially going to waste since it’s not being able to get soaked into the plants before it evaporates. Knowing this, it’s best to water early in the morning before the heat and the sunlight have really set in.

Construct More Shade

If your home or building uses the sun to create energy, then you likely don’t want to have too much shade in your area. But for the sake of your garden, you may want to bring in some makeshift shade when the temperatures start to rise.

Stringing up any kind of material that will block the sun from your plants will help to protect them and limit the amount of stress they experience. So if you have some old sheets, cheesecloth, or even cardboard that you can set up above your plants, they’ll have a much better chance of surviving.

If you have extreme heat and temperatures headed your way, consider using the tips mentioned above to help you protect your garden from this weather.

 

Air filters are essential to maintain good air quality within a home, prevent fires, and decrease bacteria. If your home has a dirty furnace air filter, you may have a higher energy bill, more illnesses, and your home won’t be as comfortable.

When was the last time you changed your air filter? If you don’t know the answer to that question, your furnace air filter may need changing. Keep reading for 8 signs that you need to change your furnace filter.

Filter Color

One of the first signs that you need to replace your furnace filter is the color of the filter. While a new filter is usually white, an old filter will be gray and covered in dust.

If the filter has a large amount of dust on it, that dust will get into the air you breathe. A buildup of dust is the easiest way to tell if you need a new furnace filter.

Higher Energy Bills

Have you noticed that your electric bill has been higher recently? While there could be several different reasons, one reason could be your air filter.

When air filters become clogged or dirty, they have a much harder time circulating air. If the air is not circulating well, the temperature inside your home is not well-regulated. This will cause your furnace to run harder to make up for the poor circulation.

When your furnace runs constantly, the energy bill will be much higher than it was in the past. If your energy bill is expensive, try changing your air filter to see if it saves you money.

Investing in a new air filter is a small price to pay to save money on your monthly bills. You can even buy discount filters c3045 to save you even more money.

Burning Smell

Is there a burning smell coming from your furnace? If so, you may need to change your air filter. A burning smell can be concerning because you don’t want a fire to start in your house.

When you haven’t changed your air filter in a while, the dust can collect on the filter and create that burning smell when it gets too warm. Dust and lint can be an extreme fire hazard.

If you notice a burning smell, start by changing your air filter. If that doesn’t solve the problem, turn off your HVAC system and have a professional look at the system immediately. You may need HVAC repairs.

Lack of Warm Air

Another sign that you may need to change your furnace filter is if the HVAC system is no longer blowing warm air. When there is a buildup of debris around the air filter, the airflow is restricted.

Restricted airflow causes the air that does make it through to be cooler. That is because it takes longer for the air to pass through. Because the air is cooler, you may feel uncomfortable in your home.

A lack of warm air could also be a sign of HVAC issues. If changing the air filter doesn’t fix the problem, you should have your furnace examined.

Furnace Running More

Another common problem related to needing a new air filter is a furnace that is running more often. As mentioned earlier, furnaces have to work extra hard if there is a buildup of lint.

Because less air can get through the system, your furnace will have to run harder to change the temperature in your home. If it seems like your furnace is running nonstop, buy a new furnace filter online to see if that solves the problem.

Getting Ill More Often

If you have noticed yourself or family members getting sick more often, your furnace air filter could be to blame. When the air quality in your home is bad, you are more likely to have allergies and get sick.

People that have asthma may have worse symptoms and more frequent asthma attacks. This can be a life-threatening situation for those with severe asthma.

If you have found yourself sneezing more often than usual, do yourself a favor and change the furnace air filter.

More Dust in Your Home

Have you noticed more dust in your home? If your air filter is not performing well, you will notice a buildup of dust on your furniture.

The air filter’s job is to collect dust and prevent it from flowing through the filter. When the filter is clogged, the dust has nowhere to collect, and it flows through the filter. Sometimes, the dust will continuously cycle through the HVAC system.

If you notice more dust than normal or have dust allergies, changing the furnace filter could help solve the problem.

Age of Current Air Filter

When was the last time you changed your air filter? If it has been more than 3 months, you need to change it.

You should check your air filter every month to see how dirty it looks. While you should change it every 3 months, it may need to be changed every month in the middle of winter. This is because the HVAC system runs more often to keep the house warm.

Do You Need a New Furnace Filter?

Having a good furnace filter in your HVAC system is essential to keeping your energy bill affordable, maintaining good health, and keeping your home warm. If you notice any of these signs that you need a new filter, replace your old one right away.

Did you enjoy reading this article on signs that you need a new furnace filter? If so, be sure to check out our other articles in the home and garden category for more home advice!

 

Did you know that adding a retaining wall to your property can increase the value of your home?

If you’re worried about soil erosion due to a sloping yard or other issues, putting in retaining walls might be the answer. It can provide stability and look beautiful, too.

Are you considering adding a retaining wall? Now is the perfect time to learn more about them before you make a decision.

Read on to find the ideal solution for your landscaping needs here!

Planning Your Retaining Wall

The first step is to take your retaining wall ideas to a reputable company. You can go here now to explore options. Get professional advice and find answers to all of your masonry questions.

Pick a Level

Another point to consider is whether you would like a single-layer wall or one with multiple layers or tiers.

A single wall can be an economical choice for those on a budget. But if you can afford it, multiple walls not only add strength but also visual interest to your backyard as well.

Choose a Material

The next thing to consider on your wall-building journey is what material you would like to use. For beauty, nothing beats a stone retaining wall.

But there are other options like wood timbers, bricks, and concrete–and you should consider your location and climate before making a selection.

Lay a Foundation

It may sound obvious, but you need to make sure that the ground is level in the area where you will be building a retaining wall. Once that is settled, take the time to lay a proper foundation.

Remember, this could affect not just the support of the wall but the overall look of it, too.

Provide Drainage

When laying your foundation, don’t forget about drainage! Water needs to go somewhere, and you don’t want that to be building up behind your wall.

This can cause a build-up of pressure and put a strain on the wall that could lead to an eventual collapse or other issues.

Inquire About Permits

Before building a retaining wall, you need to check with your local authorities about bylaws and permits.

Because your wall could potentially affect your neighbors, it’s important to see if you need a building permit and inspection in advance. You may also have to submit plans, so get professional help with your project to avoid any unnecessary delays and costs associated with this.

Ready to Build a Retaining Wall?

Now that you’ve learned about the ins and outs of building a retaining wall, you can make an informed decision about your property.

Contact a licensed professional to help you create a design in the right material, height, and style. And don’t forget to check with your local authorities about any necessary permits and inspections before starting your build!

Are you looking for more useful information about home and garden-related posts? Check out the rest of this site for other similar topics.

 

On average, US households spend around $2,000 per year on utility bills alone. If you’re looking for ways to reduce your monthly energy bill, consider looking for ways to make energy-efficient upgrades around your home.

A great place to start is with your roof, especially if you’re in an older home. But what are the most energy-efficient roofing materials?

We’re glad you asked.

Keep reading to learn about the best materials for roofs so you can upgrade your home and save money on your energy bills in the process.

1. Tile Roofing

Homeowners love tile roofing, not only because it gives their homes a unique look, but also because it’s perfect for insulation. The way the tiles are designed, air can circulate underneath them, which helps to conserve energy during the summer and the winter.

Tile is also a durable material, so it’s less likely to sustain damage from inclement weather. This aids in energy efficiency, because it means your roof is less likely to endure the normal wear and tear that other materials experience. This keeps your roof working efficiently over a longer period of time, helping you to save money in the long run.

2. Metal Roofing

Who doesn’t love the pitter-patter sound of rain hitting a metal roof? If that’s you’re idea of a perfect soundtrack to a relaxing evening spent inside, you’re in luck. Metal roofing is an energy-efficient option that not only looks great aesthetically but also helps keep your energy bills low.

Metal roofing comes in a variety of styles and colors, so you can choose the option that best fits the look of your home. Additionally, it provides superior heating reflection, helping to keep your home cooler in the summer, without you having to adjust the thermostat.

Best of all, metal roofing requires very little maintenance and can be installed quickly. Click here to learn more about the roof replacement process so you know what to expect going into it.

3. Asphalt Shingles

If you want the look of a more traditional roof, consider choosing asphalt shingles. However, keep in mind that not all asphalt shingles are energy-efficient. Instead, look for ones that are made with special granules to reduce heat absorption.

Like metal roofing, these energy-efficient shingles can help keep your home cooler in the summer, without overworking your air conditioner.

Need more convincing? Asphalt shingles tend to block outside noise better than other materials, helping your home to be more peaceful. They can also withstand wind and rain, helping to keep your home protected during storms.

Choose Energy-Efficient Roofing Materials for Your Home

After reading more about the most energy-efficient roofing materials in this quick guide, you have the knowledge you need to make the right choice for your home. Now, you can book your roofing replacement project and start reaping the benefits of a more energy-efficient home.

Looking for more ways to improve your home and save money on your energy bills in the process? Browse through our other articles today and check back often for new content!