May Newsletter

"One Call Does it All"

Serving Northeast Ohio since 1994

May 2011

Small House

Fewer new homes are popping up across the United States, but there are still enough of them to discern trends, including:

Glitz is gone -- natural finishes and clean lines are in.
Healthier Homes and Green building
Multi-generational housing
Smaller Homes

Read more . . .

Ask the Inspector

Radon Test Tampering

If there are occupants in a home while a radon test is being performed, how would you ensure equipment has not been altered, moved or ventilation added?

Erick's reply: We use a continuous monitor that has sensors to safeguard against tampering with the machine or tampering with the environment. In addition we leave notification for the occupants that they are responsible to maintain closed house conditions so that in the event that the test is voided due to their actions, the occupant understands why they will need to pay for the retest.

Tips & Tricks

Grease

Line a cup with aluminum foil and pour in grease. When the grease is solid, seal it in the foil and throw the packet away.

Quick Cleaning

Drop an Alka-seltzer tablet in the toilet bowl for a quick, fizzy clean.

Insulation

R-Values

Insulation

The most important thing to be aware of with insulation, other than the safety issues of urea formaldehyde and asbestos, is the R value, or the insulating factor. The higher the number, the better the insulator.

Don't be too shocked if the insulation in a 15 year old home isn't near the R value of a brand new home. While there is no question you could save on heating bills by adding more insulation, sometimes it can take many, many years to recoup the costs.

Ask your home inspector about any upgrade recommendations during the inspection process.

More information on insulation

Safety Test

#1 - What should you do if caught outside in a lightning storm?

a) Squat low to the ground

b) Place your hands over your ears and your head between your knees

c) Minimize your contact with the ground

d) Take shelter under a tree

#2 - Where is the safest place to be if you're caught outdoors during a tornado?

a) Inside your car

b) A swimming pool

c) A low spot on the ground