Category: Post Notes

HOME TIME

Escape To Your Backyard

Staying home doesn’t necessarily mean forgoing outdoor activity. Why not turn your backyard, patio or balcony into a space you can really enjoy? Here are some ideas to get you started.

• Create an inviting spot to have lunch or dinner. Chairs and a table that can be moved easily let you enjoy your feast in or out of the sun.
• A patio umbrella not only provides shade, it brings a welcome punch of color to your space. To prevent fading and stains, choose a fabric made specifically for outdoor use. With a huge variety of colors and patterns available you’ll have fun deciding!
• Try container gardening. Kids will have fun growing cherry tomatoes, snap peas and herbs like chocolate mint or lemon thyme.
• Flowering plants grown in eye-catching containers soften the space and add visual interest all season long.
• Add battery-powered string lights for some evening sparkle.

FORM & FUNCTION

Spotlight on Skylights

There’s something special about natural light from above. Skylights bring natural light where it would be difficult or impossible to add a window. Some examples:

• Natural illumination of a stairway
• Where privacy is required, such as a bathroom
• Small lots where windows would look directly onto a neighboring home
• Where an attic has been renovated into a living area

Ventilation – Openable skylights provide natural ventilation. Some fixed skylights also have a venting option. Light Shaft – This type of skylight is used where there is an attic above the space you want to illuminate. The simplest type of light shaft extends straight down from the skylight in the roof. A flared design will let more light in but are a bit more complicated to install. Heat – In warm climates, skylights will add considerable heat to a home especially if they face south or west. But choosing the correct skylight for your climate helps. Your installer should be familiar with the different options and heat ratings available. A low tech solution is a shade for the skylight. Leaks – The difference between a skylight that leaks and one that doesn’t is a good installer! They will know how to choose a quality skylight and how to install it properly so it sheds water. It’s important to know that moisture or stains on the inside could be a leak or could just be condensation. Consult with a professional installer to help determine the best type of skylight for your situation. Then let the sunshine in!

HOME SENSE

Spring Curb Appeal

Try these tips to help keep your place looking its best this season and beyond!

1. Keep shrubs and trees trimmed, removing any damaged or dead branches.
2. Use seasonal accents such as flowering plants, brightly colored planting containers and a fresh doormat to create a welcoming entry for your family.
3. Paint the front door in a bold accent color for maximum impact.
4. Update the front door hardware and house numbers to a new style that suits your home.
5. Make sure window and door trim is in good shape and give it a new coat of paint if needed.
6. Concrete steps and walkways can be stained to coordinate with your home’s color scheme.
7. Clean the windows so you can’t miss the sparkle from the street. It really makes a big difference!

MATERIAL WORLD

All Hands On Deck!

Adding a deck to expand your indoor-outdoor living space? Before you build, it’s important to choose the right decking material for your situation and budget. Pressure Treated Wood This common decking material can last 20 years or more if properly maintained. Typically, pressure treated wood for the deck structure is rougher and less expensive than the higher-quality boards used for the decking surface. These boards look better both right after construction and in the long term. Wood Cedar is a premium decking material with a rich look and feel. It deteriorates slowly even if left untreated. Untreated cedar will naturally turn silvery gray in a short amount of time, so if you that’s not the look you’re after you’ll need to stain it soon after construction. In the Western U.S. redwood is a popular, long-lasting decking option that can weather naturally, but unlike cedar the original color can be restored. Composites Composite decking is more expensive than most hardwoods but requires little to no maintenance beyond cleaning. Popular brands include Trex, AZEC and TruOrganics and typically offer a 25-year warranty. Composite decking is usually very heavy and normally requires a strong support structure. It can also get very hot underfoot, especially darker colors. Most municipalities require a permit to build a deck to help ensure it’s safely designed and built. Be sure to check on local requirement before proceeding. Then sit back, relax and enjoy your new space! Discover the Pillar To Post Difference. Schedule your next home inspection today!

GOING GREEN

Create An Indoor Oasis

Indoor plants are having a renaissance, but there’s no looking back to dusty old macramé hangers from the 1970s. With so many different textures, shapes and colors—yes, even many shades of green!—you’re bound to find specimens to love. Here are a few tips to get you started:

• Before you buy the first beauty that catches your eye, make sure you can provide it with the proper conditions. For example, a plant that requires bright light won’t thrive in a dark hallway or a north-facing room.
• Likewise, some plants prefer low light conditions, and would be unhappy in the sunniest spot in your kitchen.
• Be diligent about watering, but don’t overdo it. For many plants, too much water is worse than letting it go dry between waterings. Check to see what each plant needs.
• Experiment with combinations of textures and tones to create additional visual interest.
• A large, spectacular plant can become a focal point in the right spot.
• Easy-care succulents are on trend and add textural interest on a table or counter.

Start by shopping at a reputable nursery to see plants up close. And don’t be surprised if you end up building quite the collection.

HOME SENSE

Your Spring Checklist

Keeping your home in good shape helps protect your investment. Here are our top tips to get your home ready for spring!

• Check walkways and patios for cracks and any loose bricks or pavers, and have them repaired.
• Clean gutters and downspouts of debris.
• Walk around your property and check for damaged tree limbs and branches. Have a qualified professional address any big problems.
• Inspect wood, stucco and other types of siding and have any damaged areas repaired and repainted for lasting protection.
• If you removed window screens for the winter, clean them well before reinstalling.

Spring is almost here, at least on the calendar. Enjoy!

YOUR HEALTHY HOME

Protect Your Family From Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is caused by fuel-burning sources such as furnaces, water heaters, stoves generators, and even fireplaces, and can result in illness or death. Take these smart precautions to help prevent a tragedy in your home:

• Install CO detectors and learn what to do if an alarm activates. This is the most important step you can take!
• Don’t use your gas stove or oven to heat the home, even temporarily.
• Never use camp stoves or charcoal grills indoors.
• Generators must only be used outdoors and kept at least 20 feet away from windows, doors and vents. Do not use a generator in a garage.
• Make sure furnaces, water heaters, gas dryers, stoves and ovens are properly vented to the outside.
• Never start a vehicle in a closed garage.
• Have the chimney swept and inspected annually by a certified professional.

Thousands of people are accidentally poisoned each year by carbon monoxide, and hundreds die. Be proactive and lower the risk to yourself and your loved ones.

DÉCOR MAGIC

Easy Updates For Every Room

Try these ideas to refresh your spaces without a full-on makeover.

LIVING ROOM – Swap out area rugs to add a new punch of color or texture. Replace lampshades with updated shapes and materials for an instant upgrade.

BEDROOMS – Change out bed covers for a new palette or pattern. Think crisp stripes for summer and cozy heathers for the colder months. Upgrade the dresser with new knobs or pulls.

BATHROOMS – A new faucet can update the look of your bathroom instantly. Paint a powder room in a color you’ve always wanted to try—it’s a fun way to experiment without making a big commitment.

KITCHEN – Get the clutter off the counters and corral cooking utensils in a pretty holder by the stove. If your budget allows, replacing cabinet and drawer hardware will upgrade the look and feel of your kitchen.

DINING AREA – Consider painting or re-covering dining chairs to completely change their look. Table linens can be swapped out seasonally and stored without taking up too much space.

PANTRY – If you’re one of the lucky ones with a pantry, take everything out, discard stale or expired products, and reorganize the space to suit your needs. Use bins and baskets keep things organized and easy to reach.

MATERIAL WORLD

Q & A: Wood Flooring

Wood flooring has almost universal appeal, and no wonder. It’s attractive, durable, and feels nice underfoot. Here we answer frequently asked questions about wood and wood-look flooring.

What’s the difference between solid hardwood and engineered hardwood?

Basically, solid hardwood is exactly what it sounds like: Pieces of solid wood, generally ¾” thick, and available in a wide range of species, widths, and colors. Solid hardwood can be sanded and refinished many times and will last for decades.

Engineered hardwood is also 100% wood, but consists of a veneer of real hardwood fused on top of high-grade plywood. It looks like real wood because it is! It’s easier to install than solid hardwood and can be used in spaces more prone to moisture than solid hardwood. Some engineered hardwood floors can be sanded once or twice, but this is best left to professionals to prevent permanent damage to the veneer.

How about wood laminate lookalikes?

Laminates have a particle board base below a printed image of wood. On top is a layer of thin, clear plastic material to protect the image. Quality varies widely — premium laminate flooring has a far less noticeable repeat pattern of the wood image, creating a better look. They are snapped or glued together to install.

While laminate floors are economical, easy to clean and maintain, they can’t be sanded or refinished.

What’s the best choice for kitchens and baths?

It depends! Engineered hardwood is considered a good option for areas prone to some moisture because the base material is less likely to warp or swell like hardwood or laminate. Solid hardwood has become very popular in kitchens to keep visual continuity with the rest of the home, but it’s important to clean up spills promptly and watch for plumbing leaks.

There are many factors that affect what type of wood flooring to choose. Research your options carefully before making your next flooring investment, and you’ll enjoy your new look for years to come.

Experience the Pillar To Post difference. Schedule your next home inspection today!

SEASONAL SENSE

Color Your World

Are your rooms looking blah? Tired of the same old, same old? Sounds like you might need some fresh paint to brighten things up! Winter is a great time for interior painting. Whether you hire a professional or make this a DIY project, these tips will help you get results you’ll love.

1. Test sample colors in the room. The best way is to paint sample swatches onto the walls or on poster board. You’ll see how the appearance will shift as the light changes throughout the day and when room lighting is turned on at night. Sample cans cost only a few dollars each and are well worth the small investment.
2. Choose paints labeled low- or no-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) to benefit indoor air quality. These paints also have minimal to no wet paint odor.
3. Sheen or shine? Higher gloss paints are easy to wipe clean and are good for trim, cabinets, doors and other areas that handle heavy traffic. Choose a lower sheen such as eggshell or satin for a softer look in bedrooms, living rooms and dining rooms.
4. Don’t forget the ceiling. A fresh coat of paint on a dingy ceiling can make the room look instantly fresher and cleaner.

Start with one room at a time, or make it a longer-term project and tackle several. Either way, you’ll enjoy your new look sooner if you start right now!

SAFE AT HOME

Radon: What You Need To Know

Colorless and odorless, radon gas seeps into homes from underground. Elevated levels of radon can be dangerous to your family’s health. Here are the facts:

• Radon is the #2 cause of lung cancer after smoking.
• Radon can cause cancers in pets, too.
• An estimated 1 in 15 homes in the US and Canada has an elevated level of radon.
• Any type of home can have a radon problem – old or new, drafty or snug, with or without a basement.

The only way to know if a home has excessive levels of radon is by testing. Your Pillar To Post Home Inspector conducts the test with continuous monitoring technology, then reports on results and recommends steps to reduce excessive radon levels if found.

For peace of mind, schedule your radon inspection today.

HOME TRENDS

Is A Curbless Shower On Your Wish List?

Sleek, streamlined, stylish. What’s not to like about a curbless shower? If you’re considering a bath remodel that includes a curbless shower, also known as a zero-threshold shower, here are some considerations to keep in mind as you plan:

Proper installation is key. If the shower pan slope is insufficient or it isn’t installed correctly, you will end up with water all over your bathroom floor. Hire a pro who has extensive experience with installing these showers.

Door or no door? Some homeowners skip the shower door to keep the space visually open. Besides helping to keep the water where it belongs, a door will also keep you warmer in the shower – something to think about for those cold winter mornings.

What kind of door is best? If you decide to go with a door or partition, clear glass will keep the streamlined look you love, while etched or frosted glass provides some privacy.

Allow enough space. Curbless showers need to be larger than typical showers so the water can be contained in the splash zone. You may need to expand the shower square footage to accommodate this.

Can I use the same tile everywhere? A curbless shower is a great opportunity for creative design with shower wall materials and floor tiles. It’s important that the shower floor material has enough traction to be safe in a wet environment, so be sure to choose appropriately in consultation with a pro.

A qualified professional will have the knowledge and experience to create a curbless shower you adore.

HOME SMARTS

Are You In The Know? Take Our Quiz!

1. True or False: Your home has asbestos! You should definitely have it removed ASAP.
2. How is a pre-listing home inspection different from a buyer’s inspection?
   1. A pre-listing inspection takes less time.
   2. A pre-listing inspection doesn’t include photos.
   3. A buyer’s inspection costs more.
   4. None of the above.
3. True or False:Water quality can be affected by fixtures and pipes within your home.
4. Which of these issues is the one most commonly found in older homes?
   1. Serious foundation cracks
   2. Energy inefficiency
   3. Bad wiring
   4. No garage

ANSWERS:

1. False. Asbestos poses a health risk if the materials are crumbling or damaged. If asbestos-containing material is in good condition, it may be best to leave it alone. Consult a professional for advice.
2. D. A Pillar To Post Home Inspection provides the same comprehensive evaluation and written report whether the home is about to go on the market, or if a prospective buyer requests an inspection.
3. True! Even if the water delivered to the home is perfectly fine, conditions such as old galvanized pipes and lead solder can diminish water quality. Water quality testing will help determine if the water in your home is affected.
4. B. Old windows, insufficient insulation and drafts are the main culprits affecting energy efficiency in older homes. Addressing these issues will help make the home more comfortable and will save energy, too.

TOOLS YOU CAN USE

Repairs And Upgrades: How Much?

Your clients will certainly ask about upgrades and recommended repairs when buying or selling a home. And their number one question will usually be “How much will that cost?”

With the latest edition of our Cost Guide you’ll have loads of information at your fingertips. It includes cost ranges for hundreds of systems and components, from roofing and flooring to water heaters and windows. It also provides guidelines for the life expectancy of systems and major appliances.

Ask your local Pillar To Post Home Inspector for complimentary copies or download it at pillartopost.com/costguide.

CLEAN LIVING

Keeping Inspiration Close At Hand

They go by various names: vision boards, mood boards, inspiration boards. No matter what you call it, creating one (or more!) is a great way to focus on goals, dreams, and improving your everyday life.

• A vision board is a way of bringing together and organizing things that inspire you – photos, favorite quotes, drawings, colors, fashion, you name it.
• The idea is that if you have a visual reference to your inspirations, you’re more likely to act on reaching your goal.
• Whether you put items on a cork board or go online for templates, make sure it’s something you’ll see every day. Remember, out of sight, out of mind!
• Keep your vision board focused on how you want to feel. It isn’t about making a wish list of things you want to buy or have (you can do that in other ways!).
• Having more than one board could work well for you. For example, one board could focus on your career, another on fitness or other interests.
• Above all, remember that this is about what YOU want.

There are many online resources available for getting started and learning how to use your vision board effectively, so do check around. Have fun, be inspired, and enjoy the journey!

Experience the Pillar To Post difference. Schedule your next home inspection today!

SAFETY SENSE

Holiday & Winter Fire Safety

Help keep your loved ones and your home safe during the holidays with these smart precautions.

• Check holiday light strands for damaged or broken wires and plugs. Enjoy indoor lights only while someone is home and turn them off before going to bed.
• Keep live Christmas trees in a sturdy, water-filled stand and check daily for dehydration. Dried-out trees are dangerous and should be discarded immediately.
• Always use non-flammable decorations both indoors and outdoors.
• Be sure to keep space heaters away from bedding, curtains, paper — anything flammable. Never leave space heaters unattended while in use.
• Children should not have access to or be allowed to use matches, lighters or candles.
• Candles add lovely ambience to your holiday home. They need to be placed in stable holders and kept away from flammable items, drafts, pets and children or use an LED candle for peace of mind.
• Busy with holiday cooking and baking? Kitchen fires are the leading cause of house fires. Keep an all-purpose fire extinguisher within easy reach and know how to use it.

We hope you enjoy a happy and safe holiday season!

LIFE SMARTS

Feeling Blah? Top Energy- Boosting Ideas

Try these tips to keep your energy up throughout the day.

1. If you’re a morning person, try getting up extra early to get a jump on the day, or to just get some extra time for yourself.
2. Morning stretches help your body get off to a good start, and help with flexibility, too!
3. Instead of that afternoon cup of coffee, opt for a brisk walk outdoors.
4. Sitting at a desk all day? Be sure to get up to stretch for a couple of minutes at least every half hour.
5. Avoid caffeine later in the day. It will just keep you up late and you’ll feel tired in the morning as a result.

Here’s to a great day!

MAINTENANCE MEMO

Your Roof & Drainage Checklist

You may not think about your roof and gutters very much, if at all. But it’s important to give them a checkup and some TLC to prevent big problems down the road.

• Clean leaves and other debris from gutters to prevent clogs and pooling water. You may need to do this more than once a year if you have very heavy leaf fall.
• After cleaning the gutters, run water through them from your garden hose to make sure the downspouts are clear and the water is channeled away from the foundation.
• Check gutter sections for alignment and adjust them if necessary. Make sure seams between the sections are watertight.
• Downspout extensions, available at hardware stores, can be used to carry water away from the home. Use these only where they won’t pose a tripping hazard.
• Use binoculars to check the roof for missing or damaged shingles and flashing. If you notice any issues, have the roof inspected and any repairs made by a qualified professional before the snow!

HOUSEWISE

Cold Comfort

Keeping your refrigerator in top shape will help it last longer and run more efficiently. Here’s how to do it!

CLEAN THE COILS

Dust or vacuum the condenser coils every few months. Depending on your specific model, they may be located under, behind or above the unit.

SUPER SEAL

Clean dirt and debris from the door gasket on all sides. Check for cracks or other damage and replace the gasket if necessary to keep a tight seal.

FILTER IT

Change the water filter for the ice maker and water dispenser as recommended by the manufacturer. No one wants dirty ice!

TAKE THE TEMP

Use a refrigerator thermometer to make sure the temperature stays below 38°F /4°C. The freezer should be at 0°F /-18°C.

FILL ‘ER UP

Keep both the fresh food storage and freezer sections at least half full if possible. Cold or frozen food help maintain the temperature inside, much like a portable cooler stays colder longer when it’s full of cold items.

TIME TO GO?

If your fridge is over 20 years old, it should probably be replaced. An aging refrigerator might be using up to 3 times the amount of electricity compared to current energy-efficient models. Appliance delivery usually includes removing and recycling your old (faithful) unit.

Following these steps will help your refrigerator last longer, perform at its best, and will save on energy costs, too.

HOME SMARTS

Smoke Alarms 101

Smoke alarms are an important defense against injury or death in house fires, so make sure your smoke alarms are in good shape to help warn your family in case of emergency.

• Location is key! Smoke alarms should be installed in every bedroom, outside every sleeping area, and on each level of the home. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for placement.
• The two primary types of smoke alarm technology are ionization and photoelectric. Ionization alarms are more responsive to flames, while photoelectric alarms are more sensitive to smoldering fires. For the best protection, both types or combination units should be installed.
• Never remove the unit’s battery or disconnect the alarm to stop or prevent annoying alarm bells such as those caused by cooking.
• Replace the batteries at least once a year. Test each unit monthly using its test button and replace the battery if necessary. Many alarms now come with 10-year batteries that can’t be replaced, but should still be tested monthly to make sure they work.
• Smoke alarms that are wireless or hard-wired to the home’s electrical system should be interconnected. If one alarm is triggered, all of the others will sound as well. Hard-wired alarms, interconnected or not, should be installed by a licensed electrician for safety and proper operation.

Remember, a non-working smoke alarm is no better than no alarm at all!

CLEAN LIVING

Laundry Room Ideas

Whether you’re looking to improve your existing setup or re-doing your laundry area, consider these ideas for making the best of laundry day.

• Have a place to hang clothes that can’t go in the dryer. If you have the space, use a folding or pull-out drying rack.
• Store detergent and other laundry products where you can reach them easily without bending or climbing.
• Fold clean laundry on a bed if you don’t have counter space in the laundry room.
• Consider a washing machine leak detector that will give you an early alert to a water leak.
• Add some fun framed photos or kids’ artwork to the space and make the chore less of a bore.

Experience the Pillar To Post difference. Schedule your next home inspection today!