Categories
Home Tips

House Painting – How to Prepare Your Home for a Professional Painter

house painting

If you want to make your house look more beautiful, you can choose to hire a house painter. This type of professional does a great job and will save you a lot of money in the process. You can learn more about the process and costs by reading this article. It will also help you decide whether you want to paint the house yourself or hire a professional. Regardless of your preference, keep in mind that you can find many tips and tricks that will help you achieve the look you want.

Costs of hiring a painter vs. doing it yourself

When you hire a painter, you get the benefit of having a professional crew and a professional skill set. A painting contractor is more likely to do the job correctly, including trimming and moldings, and will also have all the necessary materials. The contractor will also clean up afterward, which will save you the time and money. Painting a single-story house can cost between $2,500 and $4,500. A two-story house can cost anywhere from $4,500 to $7,500, and a three-story home can cost from $6,500 to $8,500.

Painting 1,000 square feet may take a whole day to complete, depending on the contractor’s method. Painters charge by the hour, but some companies charge by square footage. If you hire a professional painter, be sure they apply two coats of paint and ensure that the area is properly prepared. Additionally, make sure the company you choose is insured, has references, and has a good online reputation.

Although hiring a painter may be cheaper, it may not be the best option for some people. It may be easier to paint your own home, but mistakes can be costly. While DIY painting can save money, you might end up with a sloppy finish, requiring more paint or redoing an area. You may also end up damaging some expensive items. The mistakes you make can end up costing you more time and money than hiring a painting service.

Although hiring a house painter is cheaper than painting your own home, you should keep in mind that the latter requires a lot of time and skill. The amount you spend on hiring a painter depends on the size of the job and the materials you’ll need. A large exterior project may require up to 50% more paint than a simple interior paint job. And the amount of materials used for interior painting can also vary significantly.

Another difference between hiring a house painter and doing it yourself is the type of painting you need. You may not be able to reach all the corners or high spots on the walls. You also need to have the necessary tools and equipment to do the job correctly. A professional paint job can cost you anywhere from $200 to $1,000. It can also take months to complete a project that’s large.

Costs of hiring a professional painter

Painting the interior or exterior of a home can add to the value of the property. When selling a house, painters should stick to neutral colors, as intense colors can be difficult to paint over. For interiors, reds and greens can increase energy levels, while yellows and blues can open up a space. However, there are a number of hidden costs that you should consider when hiring a painter.

Getting several estimates from different painters is important. Be sure to look for those who are licensed and insured, and ask for guarantees. You should also request a portfolio and references. Before hiring a professional house painter, make sure to work out a payment plan. While it is never necessary to pay the entire amount upfront, a typical downpayment is one-third of the quote. If you’re hiring a professional house painter through a painting company, be sure to inquire about the painters’ insurance coverage, and ask about the company’s payment policy.

The average cost for painting a room can range from $380 to $790. The cost of hiring a painter depends on the room size, number of painters, and the complexity of baseboards and ceilings. If you’re planning to hire a professional painter, it’s worth the price. A quality painter will save you money in the long run. The cost of hiring a painter will pay off when you have a freshly painted room.

One of the hidden costs that you should consider when hiring a painter is testing for lead paint. If you’re worried about lead paint, you should hire a contractor to remove the layer and test the paint. The cost of a lead-free paint test can range from $225 to $500. In addition to the price, you should also consider the cost of materials. Paint materials typically comprise approximately 15% to 20% of the overall professional painting cost. Testing for lead paint and additional prep work can also increase the overall cost.

Another factor that affects the cost of hiring a professional house painter is the size of your home. A two-story house will require a lot more paint than a single-story house, and it’s important to consider this. Two-story houses can increase the price by as much as 20% to 40%. Additionally, larger and more time-consuming jobs may require periodic payments throughout the process. House painters usually charge by the square footage or the amount of time the job is going to take.

Costs of doing it yourself

The costs of doing house painting yourself are not set in stone, but they do vary significantly depending on the type of painting and the material used. In general, the more expensive house paints have higher quality pigments and more durable resins. However, the lower-quality paints usually require more coats to achieve a uniform finish. Aside from the material costs, time is also a consideration. A weekend painting project can consume hours of your time.

You may be tempted to save money by doing the job yourself, but a professional can charge a lot more for a single-story house. Hiring a professional can cost anywhere from $3.00 to $5.00 per square foot, which is more than double the cost of a DIY project. In addition, hiring a painting contractor can double the labor cost. Depending on the materials used and the size of your house, your expenses may be even more.

The cost of paint can add up quickly. You can borrow paint supplies from a friend, or purchase a paint kit. The latter option is usually cheaper than buying all the individual supplies separately. Using primer will increase the overall cost, although it isn’t necessary for most paint jobs. However, if you’re using latex-to-oils paint, it won’t be necessary. Using a paint brush will also reduce costs.

The cost of paint for interior walls is between $110 and $300 per square foot. A professional painter charges about $300 to $800 per room. Painting an interior room yourself requires moving furniture, prepping the area, and cleaning up. The supplies alone may cost between $50 and $200. Professional painters usually bring their own paint and supplies, which makes them an excellent choice for DIYers. It’s important to keep in mind the time required for each room.

While it may seem like an easy task, house painting is a serious project. Without proper knowledge, you can end up spending more than you expected to. It’s also important to consider the time required to complete the project, which can add to the total cost. Most DIY painters will pay between $200 and $300 for supplies and the time it takes to complete the project. And this doesn’t even factor in the paint’s time.

Tips for painting a house

Here are a few tips to get your home ready for painting. First, make sure to cover everything in your house. This includes everything from your dining table to the switch board. Anything that you leave uncovered will get paint on it and you don’t want that to be a problem. It can also be difficult to remove the paint afterwards. Using protective gear will help you avoid causing any damage to the furniture or the walls.

Plan the painting job well ahead of time. You should plan when to paint, and the time of year you choose is crucial. Study the weather patterns in your area, and choose a day with little to no humidity. Because paint needs time to dry, you’ll want to choose a day when the weather is not humid or rainy. You don’t want the paint to peel off if the weather is bad, so plan your painting project for when it’s not raining or too hot.

Hire help. Houses with distinctive colors are easy to spot in a neighborhood and stand out more than those with the same color. It’s also important to make sure you’re thorough and don’t rush the project. Take your time, and make sure to invest in good quality materials. This will make a difference in the end look of your home. Before hiring a professional, make sure you check their references and read reviews to see how happy past clients were with their work.

Select paint in the appropriate shade. If you don’t remember the exact color of your home, you can always take a sample to the paint store and have it matched. It is important to choose the right shade, as lighter colors require more layers and more repainting. You can also choose your paint according to the current weather. However, it is important to consider the price and the quality of the paint before selecting it.https://www.youtube.com/embed/JhKMFqu0Nfw

Categories
Termites

Quick Tips to Spot a Termite Infestation

termite infestation

Termites are a pest that destroys buildings. They work nonstop and eat up your home. They make mud tubes to move from soil to wood, and swarm near windows and doors. Termite treatment should be applied immediately to prevent an infestation. But how do you know if your house has a termite infestation? Here are some signs to look for. Termites are hungry pests that eat away at your home.

Termites are hungry pests

Termites are among the most destructive types of pests and can cause a great deal of damage in a short period of time. Fortunately, you can take action before they do too much damage to your home. If you wait until they have already established a colony, you risk giving them more time to do their damage. Besides, waiting to find a termite infestation will only allow the termites to spread their colony and cause even more damage.

They can destroy a home 24 hours a day

Termites are a major cause of property damage. They are highly destructive insects with a voracious appetite. They will eat anything from the wood in your walls and floors to your books and papers. If left unchecked, termites can cause structural damage, including holes in your floors and ceilings. The best way to prevent termites from destroying your home is to eliminate possible entry points by sealing any gaps. The primary route through which termites enter a home is through soil to wood contact. Termites can also attack wood that is in the crawl space.

They build mud tubes to move from the soil to wood

The purpose of mud tubes is to allow termites to move from one area to another. They can also provide shelter from predators and keep moisture within the tubes. This way, they can easily travel between different locations. Termites build tubes around their nests and can be spotted using mud tubes around the home. In addition, they may also be present near window frames and doorways.

They swarm around windows and doors

A termite swarm is an indication that termites have infested your home. Swarmers are small, pale-colored insects that can be as large as a quarter of an inch long. They mate after laying their eggs and leave behind their wings. Termite swarms usually take place in early spring, and they tend to congregate near windows and other open areas. If you see swarmers near your home, you should contact a pest control professional immediately.

They eat wood

Termites gnaw wood for cellulose, an organic compound. It is also found in cotton fibers in cloth and in the feces of herbivores. While they will eat a wide variety of plant matter, wood is one of their favorites. Termites are persistent and well-organized creatures. They can damage your home in just a few years. To avoid this, make sure to check your house for termite infestations.

They swarm around woodpiles

If you notice a swarm of ants in the area around your woodpile, you might have a termite infestation. Termites are winged insects that swarm in the spring and fall. Their wings are similar to those of bats, and they are able to fly long distances. Termite-damaged wood is hollowed out along its grain, and you may see tiny holes on its surface. Also, you may find galleries under the wood.

They swarm from tree stumps

A tree stump can be an inviting place for termites to swarm. Infested stumps can pose a serious threat to homes. Termites are attracted to decaying wood and can even move from the stump to the house. If you discover a tree stump, it may be time to remove it. Fortunately, the removal of tree stumps can prevent infestations from happening.

They swarm from abutting porches

A termite swarm is an indication that a colony has recently established itself near your home. A swarm lasts approximately half an hour. These events may occur more than once over a few days. If you notice termite swarms, you should contact a pest control service or visit a cooperative extension center to get your home inspected.

They swarm from woodpiles

The presence of a termite swarm in a yard is typically not a cause for concern. However, the presence of swarmers near the foundation of your home or adjacent porches and patios is cause for concern. Here are some things to look for in order to determine whether your home is infested. First, you should always check for signs of termite activity near your foundation.

They swarm from abutting patios

If you notice winged termite adults on windowsills or on the outside of your home, you may have a termite infestation. These termites leave their nest and swarm around, often coming out of cracks in walls or holes in the soil. Although swarming is a common occurrence, you may not notice it right away. Swarmers are winged insects with white wings that can be seen from many angles. The wings can be found on the walls, floors, glass doors, or anywhere else that is moist. You may also find them on wood products or mulch.

Categories
Foundation

Signs of a Faulty House Foundation

faulty home foundation

If you’ve been noticing cracks in your brick walls, you may have a faulty home foundation. Most homes have some settling, so you should check to make sure that the wall is still plumb. Check the door, too, and if it’s out of square or has holes, you should have the wall repaired. Even if you don’t notice any of these problems, you should be concerned if the floor is uneven. Water will roll in one direction, and if the gradient is more than two inches in every fifteen feet, you should take action. Another major sign is a window frame pulling away from a brick wall.

Causes of faulty home foundation

Faulted home foundations can affect the structural integrity of your home. It can cause cracks in the wall, foundation, brickwork, and other areas, and cause your home to move. Cracks and other structural damage can be a red flag that needs to be addressed before the problem worsens. Cracks in the brickwork can also be caused by plumbing problems. When water seeps into the soil underneath your home, it can cause cracks and other problems with the foundation. If your foundation is weakened, you could have problems selling your home, and this can cause additional costs. It can also prevent you from obtaining a mortgage approval, depending on the extent of the damage.

Water is one of the most common causes of faulty home foundations. Water causes uneven levels of moisture in the soil beneath a home and is one of the biggest contributors to foundation problems. Water can either be too much or too little, but it has the biggest impact on the soil beneath your home. Excess moisture in the soil can cause excessive settling of your home’s foundation. If you suspect a water leak in your home, be sure to contact a plumber right away.

Poor drainage around your foundation can also be a problem. Poor drainage will lead to pools of water in and around your home, causing damage to the structure. It’s important to make sure water is diverted away from your home’s foundation by cleaning gutters and regularly checking your roof. Also, be sure to keep water off your lawn so that it doesn’t collect. If you suspect a faulty home foundation, it’s essential to have it inspected by a professional.

Repair options

If you suspect your home’s foundation is faulty, the first step should be to contact a home foundation repair contractor. They will inspect the foundation and determine what kind of repairs are necessary. You may also notice cracks in walls and tile work. These cracks are typically over areas where the foundation has been weakened. Other signs of faulty home foundation may include leaning walls and bulging walls. The type of repair necessary will depend on the cause of the cracks and the level of severity.

The most expensive repair options will require a lot of time, tools, and expertise. This means that you’ll need to hire an experienced foundation repair contractor with a lot of experience. These foundation repair companies can offer long-term warranties and guarantee concrete results for many years. Make sure to check references and check reviews online before hiring a contractor. If the problem is widespread, it will likely cost you more. However, it’s worth it to avoid wasting money on a foundation repair that will only cause more damage.

Another option is to hire a structural engineer to evaluate the problem and recommend a solution. The cost for this service is dependent on the problem. A structural engineer report will detail the causes of the problem and the recommended solution. Some homeowners choose this option as it is more cost-effective. However, it’s important to remember that a structural engineer’s report will not be as detailed as a contractor’s report.

Cost of repairs

The cost of faulty home foundation repairs is significant, but it can be avoided with preventative maintenance. A professional foundation repair contractor can provide temporary solutions that can buy you some time while you save up for the necessary repairs. During the interim, you can also monitor cracks and other signs of damage on your home’s foundation. If you see any, call a structural engineer for an evaluation. The contractor should also be able to recommend temporary solutions so you don’t have to worry about the cost of the repairs.

A thorough inspection is vital to detect problems early. The more cracks you have, the more money it will cost to fix them. A professional will likely need to dig out the area and install tile drains to drain water away from the foundation. They will also have to waterproof the home to prevent water from damaging the structure. A professional engineer may also recommend a more expensive solution to fix the problem, such as leveling or raising the home. The cost of a structural engineer will depend on the extent of the problem.

Luckily, there are some early warning signs of foundation problems. You can spot a problem by noticing cracks in your foundation or crumbling concrete. Other signs of a problem include cracks on the exterior walls, pooling water in the basement, and difficulty opening doors. You can also check for cracks and bulges in interior walls. A poor foundation can affect other parts of the house, so early inspections will help you avoid costly repairs down the line.

Categories
Home Tips

7 Doable Tasks to Winterize Your Home

During the colder months, it can be difficult to maintain your home, especially if it’s already chilly outside. Follow these 7 Doable Tasks to Winterize Your Home to keep your home safe and warm. Once you’ve done these simple tasks, you’ll be able to enjoy the cooler temperatures without worrying about the safety of your family and belongings. In addition to insulating your home, you should also unplug your lights and turn off any fan or heater.

Insulating exterior walls

In the winter, you can reduce your heating bills by insulating your exterior walls. You can install insulation to your exterior walls by using foam pipe sleeves, which have pre-slit openings. The foam expands to fill these gaps, and you can apply it to long straight pipes. Then, close gaps around electrical outlets and windows. You can also add weatherstripping around windows to prevent cold air from coming inside.

You can also use polyurethane caulking and spray foam insulation to protect the exterior of your home from cold weather. Remember to insulate around airways, such as water and furnace pipes. You should also insulate gaps around doorways, windows, siding joints, and gutter and downspout seams. You should also check electrical outlets to make sure they are properly insulated. Finally, seal all cracks and holes around the outside of your home.

Unplugging lamps

To ensure that your home is safe during the coldest months, unplug appliances and lamps. This prevents fires, especially from electrical causes. Unplugging non-essential appliances is also recommended to prevent a power shortage. By unplugging lamps, you will ensure that your home is as energy-efficient as possible. In addition, unplugging lamps will prevent tripped circuit breakers and reduce the risk of electrical fires.

Insulating crawl spaces

Many older homes don’t have adequate insulation in their crawl spaces. The reason for this is that they were often thought of as being outside. As a result, the temperature in these spaces can get very cold. This problem is compounded by the natural air movement in the home. By insulating crawl spaces, you can prevent ice from forming. Read on for some tips on insulating your crawl space.

One of the most effective and easy-to-install options is spray foam. This is a durable and effective solution for your crawl space and prevents moisture from leaking into your home. However, it’s important to check with your building code before doing this. Some regions require that the insulation in your crawl space be fire-resistant. To avoid this, make sure that your crawl space is insulated to code. Whether you use rigid foam or spray insulation, choose the right kind of insulation for your needs.

Insulating roof deck

When it comes to insulating your home, your roof deck is one of the most important parts. Your home’s roof provides the first line of defense against the cold. Whether you live in an apartment, condominium, or traditional house, you want to ensure that your roof is protected during the winter months. Fortunately, there are a few steps you can take to ensure your home’s roof deck is protected during the cold season.

The first step in insulating your roof deck is to consider the way the roof deck is constructed. If the deck is open, air can seep in through the vents and affect the overall winterization of your home. Insulating the roof deck will prevent warm air from rising into the attic, which can lead to ice dams and leaks. By adding insulation to the roof deck, you’ll be able to maximize your home’s energy efficiency and extend the life of your roof.

Unblocking drains

Unblocking drains is an essential part of winterizing your home and will help you get prepared for the cold weather. You can easily unclog drains by following some simple steps. The first step is to buy a drain cleaner that will work to break up any debris that is in your drain. Then, pour boiling water down the drain in stages to ensure that it dissolves any debris that is blocking your drain. Pour the water with household items such as a spoon or other object.

After unclogging your toilet, you should check for leaks and other issues. Check your water heater and water softener. Also, make sure to clean any aerators on faucets before turning on water. Also, during winterizing, you may have stuffed your drain openings to prevent sewer gas from rising into your home. Unblock drains in the shower, toilet, and floor drains to prevent plumbing problems during the winter.

Insulating attic

If you want to winterize your home, you should invest in a good attic insulation system. This simple process can help your family stay warm during the cold months and cool during the hotter months. Moreover, it can also help you save money on energy bills. Here are a few tips to get started:

When choosing the right insulation material, you should know that each type has its own R-value, and you need to take into account its installation process to get the best results. However, you must also be aware of its disadvantages. Certain types of insulation have higher R-values than others, so it’s best to check the information on the packaging carefully before making the purchase. Fiberglass batts are affordable and accessible, and they can effectively block air and sound. However, if you want to add more insulation to the attic, you should know that fiberglass batts can be expensive, and you should take measures to avoid settling.

Categories
Home Tips

Essential Things To Do As You Settle Into Your New Home

Moving into a new home should be an exciting time in your life. While settling, keep in mind that there will likely be an adjustment period. To help ease the transition, here are some activities you should do around the house to get comfortable.

Make A List

Make a list of every goal you would like to accomplish in the first few days you’re staying at your new home. Prioritize plans you want to achieve within a week, such as cleaning and unpacking. After completing those tasks, focus on the lengthy projects you plan to complete within a year.

Wood Maintenance

If you have some dull woodwork around the house, it’s time for you to perform some maintenance. Mineral Spirits is a good option. Mineral spirits can get rid of buildup on wood without harming it. You can purchase mineral Spirits at a paint store.

Look At The Electrical Panel

Find the electrical panel so you’ll be aware of where to go if you have to shut the power off. The panel is typically located in a room, basement, or garage. The panel is the breaker for the home. The electrical panel also includes breakers that control individual circuits.

Greet Your Neighbors

Try to get familiar with your neighbors when you get settled. Introducing yourself to your neighbors should help you build a relationship with them. Everyone in the neighborhood should look out for each other. Developing a relationship with your neighbors will also give you a chance to learn valuable information about the community.

Replace The Furnace Filter

Replace the furnace filter to avoid damaging your heating and cooling system. Try to replace the furnace filter every couple of months.

Clean Your Dryer

Clean out the buildup in your dryer every month. A clogged dryer reduces the efficiency of the device. Make sure you clean the lint screen and the exhaust ducts; this will help you save money on your electric bill. Over-drying your clothes can also increase your electric bill. Try to wash your clothes without giving the dryer a chance to cool down between loads.

Use A Detachable Toilet Seat

Keeping the hinges on your toilet seat clean can be difficult. That’s why you should consider purchasing a detachable toilet seat. Having a detachable toilet seat allows you to clean any grime that builds up under the hinges.

Inspect All Crawlspaces

Don’t neglect the corners of your home. Check the crawlspace for any leaks, insects, and mold. That should help you maintain termite control and other potential issues throughout your house.

Check Your Smoke Detectors

Locate all of the smoke detectors around your house. Test the sensors to make sure that they are working properly. To ensure that the smoke detectors keep working correctly, follow the schedule so that you’ll know when to replace them.

Don’t Rush Into Anything

Before making any substantial changes to your home, keep everything as it is for at least a year. After a year, reevaluate your plans.

Categories
Home Tips

Practical Tips on Choosing the Kind of Right Gutter Guard

Credit: Alan Levine

Gutter guards are an essential item in keeping your gutters clean and working properly.  However, some are better than others in keeping the rainwater flowing.  Here we will look at things to consider when making a purchasing decision.

Construction and Material

To keep your eavestrough free and clear, a guard of some type is essential.  To keep from having to replace or repair your gutter system, it is better to pay more now than later.  Buying cheap guards will end up costing you headaches in the future. 

Here are some drawbacks to the different materials used to make gutter guards.

Aluminum

Aluminum is a tried and true construction material, but it can corrode, leaving gaps and holes where debris can collect, ruining the efficiency of your eaves system.  Generally, aluminum is reliable, but it needs to have a protective coating of paint to last.  Any chips or other defects introduced in the paint will eventually lead to corrosion.  These defects can come from wear and tear, manufacturing errors, or installation mistakes. 

Plastic

Plastics have become more popular over the last couple of decades as they are generally cheaper to install, and they don’t have the issues aluminum does with corrosion.  However, in cold climates, they tend not to last as long.  UV rays from the sun eventually degrade the polymers in the plastic, which make them more brittle and end up cracking during the cold winters, which leaves you a mess and a big expense to get fixed.  Avoid plastics or PVC if you live in a cold climate.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel doesn’t rust like aluminum, and it doesn’t degrade like plastics from exposure to the sun, but it is going to cost you more, almost double the price.  While stainless steel lasts longer, it doesn’t last two times as long.  Aluminum can last just as long as stainless if you maintain the paint finish.  Stainless steel is also a heavier material to work with, which makes getting it on your house a bit trickier.

Galvanized Steel

Galvanized has some of the benefits of aluminum but more drawbacks.  Like aluminum, it can corrode if the protective coating is compromised.  Aluminum can corrode, but steel will eventually rust if exposed to water.  Galvanized steel is also much heavier, making it harder to install.

Foam

Another material to consider is foam.  Foam is easy to install since it is extremely light.  It is also inexpensive.  The main problem with foam gutters is that they can become very clogged, requiring messy cleanup.  Once clogged, you won’t ever get full efficiency back as each pore in the material would need to be cleaned out.  Foam guards come with a UV protective coating, but it won’t last as long as the other materials.  The foam will shrink over time, depending on how much direct sunlight it gets.

Final Considerations

Some gutter guards do not work; you should research to figure out which material is best for your home and budget.  Now you know some of the drawbacks of the materials