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Are They Bees or Wasps???

Who cares!! YOU just don't want them nesting near your home. Many people call what are actually wasps, bees, and vice versa, but you don't care you only want these pesky insects away from your living spaces. As a contractor we get asked many times a year what to do. ...

Weather Radios - Must have for Summer Storms

The severe weather that affects areas of our country every year can become deadly. Recent storms in the south have taken several lives and could have been much worse if the storms occurred at night while residences were sleeping. Weather radios now use a system that you can program your ...

April Showers Brings May Flowers

As the saying goes, we need the rain to green our lawns, shrubs, and trees, but we need to manage the water so it does not accumulate around our homes. Water always wins, so you have to give it a ‘path of least resistance‘. Redirect it away from the foundations ...

To Seal or Not to Seal that is the Question

Wondering what to do with that asphalt driveway? I have asked the ‘sealing' question to several people who either owned a paving firm or were involved in supervising the construction of roads. What I have been told is if your drive is in good shape sealing it will not make ...

So You Want To Hire A Contractor

Summer is here and those tasks around the house are going to become someone else's responsibility. How do you hire??? Every trade is licensed; electricians, plumbers, heating contractors and builders all have their required licenses. To become licensed a person has to prove how many years they have working in ...

Have You Changed Your Filters Lately??

The filters in your home are the heart of your systems. Dirty filters choke off your water and air flows in your home. Your furnace filter may be a thin cartridge, a thick cartridge an element, or electronic. First the electronic, if you have an electronic filter they typically need ...

Cool isn't Cool Enough, and Last Winter Some Rooms Were Just too Hot!

First, a little follow up from last week's discussion on contractors and permits. During the course of this week an incident happen which I thought was important. In speaking to one of the local inspectors, he mentioned a job where the homeowner pulled the permit for a project because the ...

Another week has past and we hear news reports speak of the summer storms. The Dundee storm was a close miss for our area. Although not the subject of this week's article, a past Around The House column spoke of the new type of weather radios. The Arkansas flash floods ...

Weekends Away and Summer Vacations

This week in Around the House, we will be discussing leaving the house for a long weekend or summer vacation. You can handle the packing list, but lets discuss the ‘leaving the house list'. How many times have you turned around to check if you unplugged the coffee pot or ...

Portable Generators

We have discussed generators in past articles. The past emphasis was on permanently connected automatic start units which use LP or Natural Gas as a fuel source. These units automatically transfer when the power fails. This article will address portable generators. I try and address questions that have been asked ...

In prior weeks we talked about the balancing of your AC system duct work. With the temperature in the nineties I think we can safely say, Summer is Here! The AC is running and the meter is spinning like a top. Although, we all cringe as we open the mailbox ...

Spend Money to Make Money

Fuel bills are rising and more increases are probably on the horizon. I get asked by our generator customers regularly, “who has the best LP gas prices”. I shop for my fuel because I own my own LP tank. Purchasing a tank comes with an upfront cost, but I just ...

So you have a bathroom or kitchen on the opposite side of your house from your water heaters location. It takes forever to get warm water for your morning shower or at the bathroom faucet. The solution will have an upfront cost, but you are wasting money every month by ...

Lighting Enlightenment

Well, the hype as begun. Electrical contractors as well as homeowners are stock piling incandescent light bulbs waiting the implementation of The Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007. While this act is over 800 pages long, parts of it includes the elimination of incandescent light bulbs as we know ...

Tile can be a great addition to a foyer, kitchen, or bathroom floor. Planning is what makes a job look great! If your thinking about a tile project start a folder with magazine picture cut outs and literature showing different designs. You want to express your creativity not copy someone ...

If you're planning a winter getaway….packing your camera, clothes, and travelers checks will get you set for your time away. But you don't want to have to worry about what is happening at home while you're away. Has a pipe broken, did the furnace fail, has someone broken into the ...

Recessed Lighting

Installing recess lights can give a room a whole new look, and is a great weekend project. Planning is the key to success. The kitchen is one of the most popular places to make the switch from a surface mounted fixture to several recessed lights placed where you need them. ...

Do you have broken floor or wall tiles? Are you thinking of changing that towel holder, but the new holder's mounting holes don't match the existing one? All is not lost! The most challenging part of the repair might be finding a matching tile. If the tile is no longer ...

Have you wanted to give the fireplace surround or an accent wall a new look by adding stone? It's not that difficult! Hopefully you have an idea of the look you want to achieve. There are many types and styles available. The home centers might have small samples, but a ...

Summer is coming to an end and families will be spending more time indoors. I have noticed in several homes that basements can have a musty smell. Odors are caused by mold and dampness. We are exposed to several viruses in our daily travels without bring “who knows what' into ...

First in a Series - Finishing Your Basement

Are you looking for extra living space? Look no further than your basement! This area legitimately counts toward your home's square footage, whether it's a walk out or not, it adds to the value of your house. In the next series of articles we will be discussing what it takes to ...

Finishing Your Basement - Part 2

I hope you had a constructive week ‘seeing a vision' for added living space in your basement. Keep imagining and thinking about how you want to use the space. An inset in the basement wall could be a closet or a bookshelf. A fold down Murphy bed could turn your ...

Finishing Your Basement - Part 3

We have been discussing the steps needed to finish a basement. This week we will be begin working on building the stud walls that will stand in front of your foundation walls. I suggest using a full depth 2x4 (which actually measure 1.5”x3.5”). This gives you space for electrical, plumbing, ...

Finishing Your Basement – Part 4

I hope you are enjoying either building or planning your basement finishing project. We have reviewed planning, preparations, and building of walls. One of the most important aspects of a basement living area is the heating and cooling of this space. Now is the time to decide the path you ...

Finishing Your Basement – Part 5

We have been writing a series of articles on finishing your basement. We have reviewed design/planning, carpentry, heating and cooling. We have been discussing the items in the order they are typically completed. Obviously, you need a plan (even if it changes), a framed wall to ‘put things in' / ...

Finishing Your Basement – Part 6

We have been discussing finishing your basement in the last few articles. Each week we have talked about the different phases of construction. This week we will be discussing electrical installations. If you're having difficulty in any area or having trouble finding materials don't hesitate to contact me. I will ...

Finishing Your Basement - Part 7

We have been discussing the tasks involved in finishing a basement. Last week we discussed electrical wiring. I want to stress the fact that electrical installation is not a job for the inexperienced. You can be injured or killed working in electrical panels. We will be making suggestions to complete ...

We have been discussing finishing a basement, but with the holidays and the possibility of guests visiting, I thought it might be best to write an article with meaning for those not following the series. The holidays bring a rush for shopping and traveling, home and personal safety is sometimes ...

I hope everyone had a relaxing holiday. Now it is time to get back to work. We discussed plumbing, heating, and electrical needs in past articles for a finished basement project. I only talk about things we have done or seen done in the field. I don’t ‘read about it’ ...

Finishing Your Basement - Part 8

We are working toward completing our basement remodel project. Before we get started, have you checked on your snow blower! It may already be too late by the time you read this article, but winter is just getting started. If you have a starting issue, get it fixed, before the ...

Finishing Your Basement - Part 9

We have been working toward drywall on our basement project. Today we will discuss hanging, cutting out receptacles and taping. Before we get started, several people have been without power in the past week. Do not operate your portable generators inside your garage or in any area near the ...

Finishing Your Basement - Part 10

Last week we installed the drywall wall board. The drywall screws should be slightly recessed below the wall board surface, so they can be covered will drywall compound (mud). You will need 4 different sized drywall knives. These are basically giant putty knives for lack of a better description. ...

Finishing Your Basement - Part 11

Happy New Year! We have been discussing the steps in finishing your basement, but these techniques can be used in many weekend fix ups or room remodels as well. Last week we discussed drywall finishing. Your space should be taking shape. If you’re installing a drop ceiling the time has ...

Finishing Your Basement - Part 12

For the last several weeks we have been discussed the tasks required to finish a basement. These techniques can be applied to any new construction or remodeling project. Last week we discussed drop ceiling. During any construction project, drywall can be accidentally damaged. If a hole is inadvertently made ...

Finishing Your Basement - Part 13

We have been discussing the remodeling of a basement family room. Last week we discussed a raised wooden sub floor and mentioned carpet, but we are not to the point of the finished flooring installation yet. We want to paint and install trim before our last step of flooring. The ...

Last of the Series - Finishing Your Basement - Part 14

We have been discussing finishing your basement. The techniques outlined can be used for any room remodel. Today we will review the finishing touches. Your plugs and light switches should be installed. Keep in mind the power should be off. Never work on energized circuits! The silver colored screw ...

This week let’s talk rust. Have you noticed rust stains beginning on your plumbing fixtures? Even with a water softener, rust stains can start to form. My softener has been on duty for over ten years, with no rust at all and operating properly (until now). Then out of ...

Questions Answered

We’ve have a few customers order replacement lamps for their ‘sunlight’ room lamps. These lamps reproduce the light of the sun and are said to help with the winter blues. I personally have been taking vitamin D and enjoying the few warmer sun filled days we have experienced. So keep ...

This last week I met a very nice lady who complimented me on this column (thank you for the kind words) and asked a question. She needs a breath of fresh air for her kitchen backsplash. She is a DIYer, and has completed many projects. The current issue is ...

Screen Replacement

Window screens are costly to send out for repair, but easy and inexpensive to do it yourself. From patio doors to standard windows, they all are replaced by the same method. An adequate work table is needed. I think everyone should have two of the plastic foldable saw horses. ...

Proper Drainage

This week’s topic is drainage. The weather is bringing more rain to our forecasts. The increased winter’s snow fall and the fact that the ground is saturated has raised fears of flooding thorough the tri-state area. The first thing that may be in order is a review of your ...

This week’s events in Japan wrote the article for me this week. Be prepared! The news reports are not showing looting or unrest in Japan, the loss of life and damage is unconscionable, but preparedness did save lives. Some of this may be cultural differences, but a lot goes ...

More Questions Answered

This week I wanted to address a few questions I have received. The first dealt with propane pricing. I cannot predict LP pricing, but several of the readers have locked in contract pricing which will be ending this month. Typically, I always advised folks to fill their tanks during ...

Window Replacement

Several topics we discuss each week may or may not be tasks you wish to attempt. Whether you are a DIYer or not, it is important that you have a general knowledge of the scope of work for projects you hire contractors to complete. You are the person paying ...

Water Softener Media

I have written in past articles about water softener maintenance and repair. We have also discussed the need for a pre-filter to catch any particles before they enter the softener. Today, I would like to answer a question I’ve received regarding…. What if the maintenance and prevention measures haven’t worked ...

Rust - Mower - Radio

This week’s column will address multiple topics. Last week we spoke of cleaning the media in a softener. When a friend heard of the article, I ended up helping him with his unit last weekend. After disconnecting the softener and unclipping and removing the valve assembly, we saw the ...

Generators and Sump Pumps

We have had several generator service calls in the last week. I encourage all owners of portables and automatic standby generators to check the operation of your unit. Do not wait unit ‘you need it’ to verify it’s operational. Your portable may need fresh fuel and a spark plug, ...

Better weather seems to be fighting its way finally into Michigan. You probably have already put the lawn mower to work. I have been asked a few questions concerning lawn care issues. The first was concerning a nylon cutting spring for trimmers. It seems every time you find a ...

Better weather seems to be fighting its way finally into Michigan. You probably have already put the lawn mower to work. I have been asked a few questions concerning lawn care issues. The first was concerning a nylon cutting spring for trimmers. It seems every time you find a ...

Dryer Vents and AC Units

Welcome to the rain forest of Michigan! Hopefully, we find the weather patterns we have been waiting for to enjoy our outdoor activities. As I receive questions, I either answer them directly or address them in the column if they are general enough for all to benefit. Clothes dryers ...

Storms continue to pound the South. We discussed in prior weeks the auto alert weather radio. Please buy one at any local store. Hiring a reputable contactor seems to be increasingly difficult. The most important item a contractor must provide you is insurance and a workman’s comp certificate. If ...

Summer’s heat has arrived. Make sure you and your pets are properly hydrated by drinking plenty of water and protecting yourself from the sun. On a day like Wednesday, you could get a serious burn within fifteen minutes of exposure. Always remember to wear a wide brimmed hat and ...

The weather has caused many power outages; which are becoming more frequent. Whether it’s due to downed trees, or high winds, your only concern is that you are without power. Before I get into a description on what is available to generate power in your homes during emergencies, let ...

I have been asked several questions about when to empty a septic tank. The septic pumping companies in many communities are required to use dumping stations, which carry fees. This cost is passed on to you. People want to maximize the time between cleaning out their tank. The septic ...

Outside Water Valve

Are you tired of water spots on your car when you wash it using well water? You need a ‘softened water hose valve’ on the outside of your house! This project will allow us to discuss how easy plumbing additions or repairs can be made. First locate a pipe ...

Generator Failure

Where was this heat when we needed it, like in January?!?! Seriously, be careful out there. If you don’t have AC, drink plenty of water and watch out for senior citizens (family or neighbors) that may need help. If you’re in Livingston County keep in mind we have the ...

Well, we finally got some rain, so if you were waiting to start watering your lawn again, now is the time. The rain will help break the surface tension of the soil and allow your watering effects to actually keep the soil moist. It has been a tough month. The ...

Well, here we are in August, summer is flying by, but when the heat index has been so high it’s difficult to spend much time outdoors unless you’re in the pool or lake. With the dry conditions, dry grass, seeds, and other debris may be clogging your outside AC ...

Locks and Lighting

Wow! Can you believe it 78 degrees, if it could only be this way all year long! Well, your grass is probably looking ‘green’ again with the unfortunate side effect of it’s started to grow again! Cut it at least 3½ tall or even a little bit taller. This ...

Water Water Everywhere

When it rains, it really rains! Standing water was the issue of the week. Backyards, front yards, everywhere water could stand, it did! In past articles, we discussed downspouts and drainage close to your home. Today let’s talk about standing water during heavy rains or seasonal times. I have ...

One of the questions I am frequently asked is how to install wiring to small sheds, or upgrade the garage or barn wiring to include phone, TV, or security. Obviously, an attached garage offers a relatively simple install. If the walls are finished, low voltage wiring can be added ...

Another summer is almost over; the kids are going back to school. This week I visited a customer who lived alone and their house set several hundred feet from the road. Although I was there to discuss a generator installation, the topic quickly turned to security lighting. No matter ...

Fall is in the air. The cider mills are starting to be busy on the weekends and the snow blowers are in the big box stores. This week let’s talk about all the little things we need to start to address before the snow flies. If you have gutters ...

The Scenario - Part 1

If you have been watching the news, one of the last storms hit the Ferndale area near Detroit severely. I have a friend that lives in the area and they were without power for six days. Fortunately, they had water and natural gas, a luxury many of us would ...

The Scenario - Part 2

Last week we started discussing a scenario where power was out for several days in the middle of winter. To continue… What about light? Batteries, flashlights, or LED lights are a necessity. Home Depot had small silver magnetic based LED hand lamps for $4.95 each. I purchased two to ...

We’ve had some great fall weather, and the cider mills are busy! Even though we are enjoying the weather we know winter is coming. I took the ‘ritual walk’ around the house and inspected the exterior. The opening around vents and pipes can create great heat loss. Clear or ...

Getting Ready For Halloween

Halloween is on the way and the stores are full of candy and costumers. Let’s not forget the safety aspect of this fun evening for our kids. You have to carve the pumpkin, but do you know the increase in visits to the emergency room due to accidental cuts? Those ...

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