​Many homes these days, particularly new builds, are fitted with pressure-assist toilets instead of the traditional gravity toilets. So, let’s have a look at how they work, and why are they a good choice.
 
From the outside, a pressure-assist toilet may look like a traditional one but, they function rather differently. The ceramic tank has an air-filled pressure container fitted in it. While a standard toilet uses gravity to flush water through, a pressure-assist toilet uses compressed air. This results in water being forced into the toilet bowl at a much more powerful rate than gravity alone can achieve.
 
Pressure-assist toilets come with many advantages. For instance, the strong flushing capacity of this type of toilet results in fewer clogs in the system. Plus, it’s water efficiency will save gallons of water each year making it much more eco-friendly.
 
Older homes also benefit from pressure-assisted toilets, this is because the powerful force of the flush helps to push waste through old pipework. Also, due to the tank's design, you will not see a buildup of condensation when the weather is humid. They are also easier to maintain than standard toilets.
 
Before you start replacing your toilets for pressure assist ones, there are a few things you should be aware of. For example, this type of toilet has a much louder flush than a gravity kind. They can also be more expensive than a standard toilet. You may also find that if your home has low water pressure, a pressure-assist toilet may not work as efficiently because they will need at least 20 to 30 PSI of pressure.

​All of us depend on a clean, reliable water source to maintain a healthy lifestyle. We can easily take it for granted, though, considering that all we have to do for an endless supply of potable water is turn on the faucet. So, where does your water come from? How can you find out?
 
If you live in a large town or city, it's most likely that your water comes from a reservoir which is generally referred to as a surface water source. The reservoirs location does not necessarily have to be in your immediate area, but it could be some distance from the area it is suppling. If your home is located in a more rural area you may have a different water source. Very often it is supplied by an underground reservoir or aquifer.
 
There are a few factors that will determine whether a water source is safe. As well as the body of water, the land that surrounds it plays a big role. It is important to know what the surrounding land is used for. Is it used for agricultural or industrial purposes, for example? This area of land surrounding the body of water is known at the watershed.
 
What can you do if you want to find out the source of your home's water? It is best to contact the company that supplies your water and ask them for a copy of their annual report. As a consumer you are entitled to a copy, so don’t hesitate to ask. The report will provide information regarding the source of your water and let you know if any contaminates, etc. have been found in it.

​With good reason wooden siding has been used for decades to clad the exterior of homes. Did you know, however, that there are several kinds of wooden siding? If you are thinking about this as an option for your home you may find it helpful to have a little knowledge of the types of wood used for exterior siding. Here are some of them:
 
Redwood and Cedar are two types of wood used for weatherboarding or clapboard. They not only look good but, are strong and not so prone to decay. You will usually see these installed horizontally with overlapping boards.
 
As long as it is maintained well, solid wood or lumber is a very good choice. It looks good and can be very durable. It can be placed horizontally, vertically, and even diagonally.
 
If you are looking for a less expensive option then you may want to think about hardboard. Hardboard usually consists of wood fiberboard, compressed with synthetic adhesive. It is treated with an EPA approved preservative to safeguard it from decay and insect damage.
 
Plywood siding is yet another wooden siding option. Woods that are typically used for this are yellow pine, Douglas fir, and red cedar. These can increase support for the structure of the building.
 
Your builder should be able to advise you on the best choice of wooden siding for your home and location but, it's always beneficial to know a little about it yourself.

​Many homeowners go to great lengths to protect their homes from intruders and often invest in very high-tech gadgetry to do so, but what about some of the more basic security features of the home like exterior doors? Would your front door protect you against break-ins? Here are a few security features that every exterior door should have:
 
One of the first things you should look at is the construction of the door. How solid is it? A door that is lightweight with a hollow-core wooden construction would be easy to break so make sure it has a strong solid wood or steel core. You should also make sure the door and frame are in good condition and not showing signs of deterioration such as rotting, warping, or cracking.
 
What type of lock does the door have? A good quality deadbolt lock is ideal. If you want to use a chain this will be a good addition to the deadbolt but never use it instead of one. You can also install a peephole which will allow you to check who is at the door before you open it. Also, since bump keys are a popular choice for thieves these days, you may want to consider a bump-resistant lock.
 
Very often a front door will have glass paneling in it and, while this is aesthetically pleasing, it may make it easier for a thief to smash through. In this case, you should make sure the doors lock is positioned far enough away from the glass so that it would be difficult to reach.
 
Some front doors have a mail slot in the door itself. If this is the case there should be a cage or box on the inside surrounding the slot, otherwise, someone may be able to access the doors lock by way of the mail slot.
 
These are just some features of a secure front door. Don’t let your exterior doors become the home's security weak spot.

​A burglar is an opportunist and will look for any weak spot on your property that they can use to gain access to your home. To make your home a more secure place you will want to make it as unattractive as possible to a would-be intruder. Here are a few ways you can do this:
 
First of all, you can design the landscaping in your yard in such a way that would deter a burglar. You do not want to cover the entrance or windows of the home with trees and shrubs as this will provide a good cover for someone while they try to break in. Fencing can be a good deterrent but, again, it should not provide a shield for the burglar.
 
The exterior door should be solid with good locks. Windows should also be made of solid materials and strong glass and show no signs of deterioration. In areas most at risk of intruders, you can install window bars or heavy-duty wire screens. Just make sure that the home's occupants could exit the windows easily in the event of an emergency.
 
Sliding glass doors should be secured with locks both on the top and bottom of the door. Another simple step you can take is to place a piece of wood such as a cut off broom handle into the door track which will prevent it from being opened.
 
Burglars don’t want to be seen by neighbors or passersby, so lighting is a good deterrent. It is helpful to install lights on every side of the house and have them fitted with motion sensors. If you are not going to be at home, leave a few lights on in the house to make it seem like you are in.
 
Yes, make your home as unappealing to an intruder as possible by making it very difficult to enter your home.

​If you have just completed the home buying process and the time has come for you to finally move into your new home, you will want to take some time to get settled and enjoy it. Naturally, after investing so much time and money into the purchase of your new home, you will also want to keep it well maintained. What are some of the ways you can do this?
 
The following short video will help to give you an idea of the kinds of tasks you can include in your home maintenance routine. While it's true that the home has just been inspected before finalizing the sale, you can begin your home maintenance routine straight away and begin protecting your new investment.

​It is not pleasant to think that dust mites are living in our homes but, the fact is that they are present in pretty much every home. Dust mites can be so prevalent that in just one square yard of carpet there could be as many as 100,000 dust mites. In general, dust mites are not considered to be a big problem; however, they do trigger allergies in many people so, what are some things you can do to lower the number of dust mites in your home?
 
While there are numerous detergents and other products available that are intended to protect you from dust mites, etc. these are very often not as effective as they claim to be. Before using a chemical approach there are some other methods you can try to eliminate them. Here are some of those methods:
 
One place where dust mites are often abundant is in bedding. If you want to eliminate all dust mites from your bedding then it’s recommended that you wash it at a minimum temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit. You can also put your bedding in the dryer for 10 minutes at a high temperature and this will also kill them.
 
Dust mites thrive in warm, humid conditions so try to find ways to reduce humidity levels. Air conditioners and electric blankets have been found to be effective.
 
Vacuuming is another very good way to reduce a dust mite population, if possible use a vacuum with a HEPA filter as this will prevent dust from going back into the air. It's best to dust your home with a damp cloth so that you avoid a redispersion of dust onto other surfaces. When vacuuming, don’t forget to include textiles, and other soft furnishings, etc. as well as carpets and flooring.
 
Air purifiers are also beneficial, especially in homes with allergy sufferers. Air purifiers with a HEPA filter are best to use. It is good to be aware, though, that while air purifiers will help to lower the number of dust mites in the air, it will not eliminate them completely as dust mites are not usually airborne.

If you are trying to live within a budget you may be thinking about different ways to save money. Making your home more energy efficient is a good way to save on household bills and one thing that most homeowners can do themselves is sealing and insulating gaps and holes. Here are some areas of the home where air tends to escape:
 
The attic spaces. Due to the fact that heat rises the attic is an area that you will notice leaking air. You will often experience bigger gaps and holes in dropped ceiling areas, behind or under attic knee walls, or the area where the attic meets with the floor, so you will want to plug up any of the holes you find there. Next, seal up small holes. If you are wondering how to find smaller holes, one clue to watch out for is patches of insulation which have become darker than the rest. The attics access panel is another area that will benefit from weatherstripping or foam board insulation.
 
As well as the attic, what other areas of the home can benefit from sealing and insulating? Some places you will want to check are doors, window frames, baseboards, window or wall mounted air conditioners, electrical outlets or receptacles, and piping. 
 
These are just a few of the places throughout the home that can become more energy efficient if they are sealed or insulated. Plus, as well as saving you money on cooling and heating costs, a tightly sealed home will also contribute to better indoor air quality and comfort.

​If you are about to move into a home that has a grinder pump, it is important to know how one functions and what you need to do to keep it well maintained. In this blog, we are going to discuss some basic ways to do this but let’s start with the reasons a home may need one.
 
When there is a plumbing system below or even at the same level as a public sewer line or septic tank, as in the case of a basement bathroom, for example, waste is not able to flow fast enough through the system. A grinder pump helps to push waste matter quickly through the plumbing system. It does this by grinding up the waste so that it becomes a slurry and then pumping it through into the sewer or septic tank. 
 
For obvious reasons, then, you would not want the grinder pump to stop working. To avoid problems there are some items you should never place down the toilet. These items include diapers, feminine hygiene products, cat litter, aquarium gravel, plastics, toxic chemicals, and grease which can build up in the tank.
 
It is also important to remember that grinder pumps are powered by electricity so if the home loses power its best to use as little water as possible to prevent the tank overfilling. You should also avoid connecting the grinder pump to a sump pump as this uses an excessive amount of electricity and will overwork the pump.
 
Another basic reminder is that if you are going to be away from home for a few days you will need to prepare the tank. You can do this by running water so that you activate the grinder pump, this will flush the tank with clean water and stop any nasty odors from entering the home.

Wood rot also referred to as wood decay is a type of wood-destroying fungus that can cause major damage to a home if left untreated. Isn't it a good idea, then, to know the areas of your home that may be more susceptible to wood rot?

Firstly, it's good to know a couple of basic things about wood rot. For example, to survive it requires oxygen, moisture, and a food source. It particularly thrives in damp, warm environments but it has the ability to survive in many other conditions. You should also be aware that there are other things that can damage wood in a home such as carpenter ants or termites so its good to have the problem diagnosed by a professional.
 
There are many areas in a home that can become affected by wood rot, here are a few of them:
​

• Wood that comes into direct contact with masonry, concrete, or soil.
• The surrounding subfloor areas of bathtubs and toilets, also around corroded or leaking pipes and plumbing fixtures.
• Foundations. Look for cracks in the home’s foundations or any places where water pools around the house due to insufficient grading.
• The underneath of sliding doors or windows that have not been installed properly.
• Roof penetrations with damaged flashing.
• Decking, especially ground floor exterior decks and support posts.

 
If you have some concerns that wood rot may be a problem in your home, why not have it inspected? This way the problem can be diagnosed and hopefully remedied before it becomes a costly repair. 

​A home's lighting is very important in setting the right tone, but to get it right takes an element of skill.  When you think of lighting up a dark space in your home, you perhaps think about electrical forms of lighting, however, daylighting is another way you can brighten up a space and, at the same time, save on energy costs. Let’s look at some of the ways that daylighting could be incorporated into a home.
 
Daylighting is a term used to describe the practice of using natural light to brighten up the interior of a home. It can be done by employing several different methods. One common way is by installing skylights. If you decide to do this, make sure they are double-paned and that the flashing is done properly.
 
Another effective method of daylighting is with clerestory windows. Set high on a wall, these short but wide windows allow the sun to flood into a room during the winter months adding light and heat, but at the same time are protected from the sun in the summer by the roof overhang.
 
Light tubes are another way to evenly distribute daylight. They do this with a special lens made to amplify low-level light but reduce the intensity of light from the sun at midday. The tube itself is coated with a highly reflective material that channels sunlight through it. It then enters the interior space through a diffuser which evenly distributes the light.
 
These are just a couple of the methods used to incorporate natural light into a home instead of relying solely on electrical lighting to do it for you. 

Spring is often a time when we try to start the projects that need to be done around the house. However, if you are not used to doing much in the way of DIY, even a small job can feel like a big undertaking. One thing that will make any task easier is to have the correct tools for the job. While there are so many different tools you could buy for your tool kit, we have prepared a basic list to help get you started.


It’s a good idea to think about some of the most common DIY jobs you may need to do and what tools you would need to do them. What about hanging a picture, for example? What tools would be required? Perhaps the first thing that comes to mind is a hammer and nails. You will also need a tape measure and a level that would ensure the picture is even and in the right spot.


If you purchase self-assembly furniture items, you will likely need some basic tools to put them together such as a screwdriver. Make sure you purchase a screwdriver kit that has both a flat head and Philips head screws in it.


Do your toilets and sinks have a habit of blocking up? While this may eventually require the expertise of a skilled plumber, the problem can very often be remedied using a plunger, another good tool to own.


We cannot list every task you may need to do at home but here are a few more tools that will help with many DIY jobs: a saw, a wrench set, duct tape, and a flashlight. Also, don’t forget safety equipment which should include safety glasses, a breathing mask, and work gloves.
​

If you have an at-home gym or any kind of exercise equipment at home, you are likely using it a lot more now that we are spending so much more time in our houses.  While this is great for our physical health, some gym equipment can also pose a safety concern, especially if there are small children in the household.  So, we thought it would be a good time for a few exercise equipment safety reminders.
 
One of the most common types of at-home exercise equipment is a treadmill.  Be sure that anyone who uses it knows how to operate it and attaches the safety key which will immediately turn off the machine if there is a problem.
 
Weights and barbells should be stored out of the way of children as these can cause serious injury if they gain access to them.
 
Many people like to listen to music or tv while they are working out, but this may make them less aware of their surroundings.  If a small child were to come into the room, they may not notice, and this could put the child in danger.  One way to address this problem is to position exercise equipment in such a way so that you can see when someone enters the room.
 
Children love to play with things they shouldn’t, and gym equipment can be a great temptation for them.  When you are not using exercise machines, keep them in their locked positions and make sure that any attached cords and wires are not dangling from them.  It may be best to unplug the equipment when you are not using it to minimize the risk of a child accidentally turning it on.  Of course, the safest thing to do is to keep all gym equipment in a room that can be locked. 
 
We hope everyone stays safe and healthy at home during this challenging time.

For many homeowner’s damp basements are a common problem that can result in issues for the rest of the home such as bad indoor air quality and mold.  When trying to ascertain the reason for your damp basement, you may first want to check that other areas of your home are not causing problems in the basement.  Here are a few examples:
 
If the property has an uneven or inadequate amount of grading (slope) then this can prevent water from draining away from the building the way it should.  This means that water may start to pool around the foundations of the home, making the basement damp.
 
Another reason water could collect around the foundations of the home is if gutters and downspouts are either damaged or clogged and leaking.  If downspouts were not installed correctly, this could also be contributing to the damp. Ideally, downspouts should be installed so that water drains away from the home, 10 feet is a good amount.
 
Sometimes the location of a home may be the reason for a damp basement.  For example, homes located at the base of a hill or incline may experience water pooling around the home.  To help prevent this from happening, some homeowners have small ditches or swales dug about 10 to 15 feet away from their homes which would divert water away from the house.
 
These are just some of the reasons why a homeowner might experience damp basement issues.  However, for a more in-depth assessment, it would be wise to schedule a thorough home inspection.

​While the thought of bed bugs in a home would make anyone cringe, the fact is that they have become a very common problem.  So, how can you determine whether there are bed bugs in a home? Here are some indications:
 
Bed bugs are generally oval and flat with a rust-colored body.  Their small size means they can be very difficult to see, especially when they first hatch making them easy to inadvertently transport from one location to another.
If you have traveled to a place that has bed bugs, you could accidentally bring them back into your home.
 
To check for bed bugs, look for blood spots on bed sheets and mattresses or any staining that may have resulted from the remnants of a bed bug or its fecal matter.  If you have been bitten by bed bugs you may notice itchy bumps on your skin.  Sometimes you will also observe a musty odor that is emitted by them.
 
Bed bugs are not just found in beds but many other areas such as books, picture frames, soft furnishings, clothing, and other furniture items.
 
If you think you have detected the presence of bed bugs in your home, don’t panic and attempt to treat the problem by yourself as this may make the issue worse.  Instead, contact a professional pest control company that is trained to treat this type of problem.

​If you are currently searching the property market for a new home to buy, you will no doubt be aware of the many options available to you.  But, how can you be sure you are making the right choice? This may be of particular concern if you are a first-time buyer.
 
To be sure you are making a wise investment you must find out all you can about the condition of the property.  To highlight the importance of this, let's consider a home that has a prior history of fire damage.
While the home may look in good shape at first glimpse, is that its true condition?
 
To help you to understand some of the issues you may face when purchasing a fire-damaged home, please watch the following video.  It will help you make the right choice when considering this type of property.

​Every homeowner wishes for a good measure of security on their property and in their home.  But, it may surprise you to learn that, although you might think you have a good lock on your door, it could be easier for an intruder to enter through the front door than you think.  A bump key can be used for gaining entry into a home. So, what is a bump key?
 
A bump key is a key that is cut out in a specific way so that it can be used to pick a pin-tumbler lock. If you are wondering whether a pin-tumbler kind of lock is very common, the answer is yes, it is one of the most common types of lock in the world and is used in exterior door locks. A bump key can be a very successful way to enter a home because these types of a key are pretty easy to acquire, you just have to know who the manufacturer of the lock is.  Learning to bump a key also takes little skill and not too much time to master.
 
What are some ways you can prevent an intruder from using a bump key on your door? It is possible to buy locks that are bump proof, but these can be hard to find and quite expensive.  Bump-resistant locks are a bit more commonplace so you may find this is a better option. It is also wise to install some other type of security system that would raise the alarm if an intruder entered your home. If you have any concerns about the safety of the exterior doors in your home, please feel free to contact us for more advice.

​The kitchen is one of the most important rooms of the house so, during our home inspections, the kitchen is inspected thoroughly. It's also a room that can tell you a lot about the overall condition of the rest of the home. When looking at a prospective new home, watch out for these warning signs:
 
The kitchen sink can tell you a lot about the home. Turn on the faucet and see what the water pressure is like, if you notice it seems low, you will want to find out the reason. How quickly does the water drain from the sink? Look under the sink and in cabinetry for signs that water is leaking and if this has caused any damage.
 
Dishwashers can also be an area where you might observe water damage. If you can, check the condition of the dishwasher’s hoses and seals. If these are damaged and have been leaking water you could discover serious issues such as a rotting sub-floor and mold which may be a big problem if you purchase the home.
 
Electrical outlets are another area to check. Are they all working correctly? If not, why not? It could indicate bigger problems. If the oven is a gas oven, do you smell gas in the area surrounding it? If you do, it might be another warning sign.
 
Look out for damaged counter tops. All sorts of bacteria may be found if there are cracks and damage to grout, etc. Sometimes it's better to just replace them which is something that should be factored into your budget.

​A warm and inviting fireplace is a welcome addition to any home, however, not all houses are built to incorporate a traditional fireplace. The solution? A factory-built fireplace. This type of fireplace has many benefits and is easy to install. Let’s look at some of those benefits.
 
Fireplaces that have been built in a factory are a good option as they can be stored in a warehouse until needed. This means that they can be used for most pre-existing homes as well as new construction. They are generally comprised of a firebox that is enclosed in a steel cabinet and attached to a steel chimney or flue. Factory-built fireplaces are also lightweight, efficient and safe to use. Although it depends on the manufacturer, they usually have small safe-clearance requirements and are even safe to install close to wooden framing. The advantage of this is that you can install this kind of fireplace on any level of your home. 
 
Factory-built fireplaces do enjoy an excellent safety record but there is still a need to take all the safety measures that you would if you had a traditional fireplace, this should include checking the chimney once a month to make sure creosote has not started to buildup. As we mentioned, different manufacturers will have different requirements so you must be aware of these before you begin the installation of your fireplace.
 
Yes, your home could also enjoy the advantages of a cozy fireplace with the installation of a factory-built model.

​With a new year, not to mention a decade, just a couple of days away now, have you started planning out your upcoming year? If you are a homeowner perhaps you’d like to take on some home renovation projects or maybe get around to doing a few home maintenance jobs. Regular maintenance is essential to the proper functioning of your home. One aspect of home maintenance you may not have thought of, however, is a yearly home maintenance inspection. If someone were to ask you the last time you had a home inspection performed, would you say it was when you purchased the home? Many would answer yes.
 
To highlight the many advantages of having a yearly home maintenance inspection, please enjoy the following video. We are here to assist you with any type of home inspection you need so please don’t hesitate to contact us.

​Electricity has become something we rely upon heavily, so much so that if our homes lose power for any reason, we often find ourselves in complete chaos. It is even a matter of health and safety for many individuals. It’s no surprise, then, that so many choose to acquire a portable generator. As well as helping during a power outage, a portable generator is great for camping or traveling to more remote areas as it can be transported easily. Also, there is no special permit required to own one which is another advantage.
 
There is a need for caution with portable generators, however, and its important that you only use them for their intended purpose. For example, if you are using it for a power outage, make sure you do not overload it. You will not be able to keep every appliance running as normal but should only use it for the essential appliances. It is only designed for corded electrical appliances and should not be used for appliances that are hard-wired to your home. Keep this in mind if you use these for health reasons.
 
Never run a portable generator inside the home. They produce carbon monoxide which could be very dangerous. Another thing to have in mind is that the generator will become hot as it is running so be very cautious when adding gasoline.
 
Yes, owning a portable generator has many advantages but, as is the case with all types of machinery and appliances, care should be taken when using one.

​A tumble dryer is an essential appliance in most homes, however, if a dryer is not used in the way it is intended, it could pose a serious fire hazard. Many houses have been destroyed because of a fire that originated in the dryer. Let’s look at one essential safety aspect of a dryer, the vent.
 
Why does a dryer need a vent? Tumble dryers work by blowing hot air into a rotating drum of wet clothes. As the clothes tumble about in the dryer water evaporates from them forming water vapor. This water vapor needs a way to escape the machine which it does through the attached vent. Another product that comes from clothing as it dries is lint and this also needs to escape through the vent.
 
What if there is no vent attached to the dryer? If there is no vent connected to the dryer it could begin to overheat. Water vapor will not be able to escape the dryer and lint, which is extremely flammable, will accumulate in the machine with nowhere to go. When this happens, the dryer is at risk of bursting into flames.
 
It is important to check the dryer periodically to make sure the vent is working as it should. This can be tricky at times because washers and dryers are usually fitted into tight spaces and dryer vents are normally connected to the back of the machine. Because vents are generally made of bendable plastic or metal duct they are also vulnerable to damage. While checking that the vent is attached to the dryer, it’s a good idea to also check that there are no kinks or damage to the vent that would prevent airflow.

​If you are a gardening enthusiast you will know the many benefits of owning a greenhouse. However, just like any other structure, a greenhouse needs to be properly maintained if it is to function the way it is intended. So, here are a few ideas you might find helpful:
 
When you are not using the greenhouse its best to keep it locked, especially if there are young children at home. Gardening tools, pesticides, and other dangerous items are often stored in a greenhouse so keeping the door locked will ensure these items are out of harm’s way.
 
Greenhouses are designed to create the ideal environment for plants to grow by retaining heat and light, however, a greenhouse also needs good ventilation to prevent air from becoming too humid and stagnant. A lack of ventilation could make the greenhouse too hot which may kill plants, it will also create a breeding ground for fungi.
 
During colder months extra heat is often needed in a greenhouse by way of an electric heater. To ensure this does not become a fire hazard only use a heater that is intended for greenhouses and, if you are using other electrical appliances in there, be sure they are suitable for outdoor use and keep them unplugged when you are not using them.
 
You may notice a leak developing in your greenhouse from time to time. If this happens, try to fix it immediately, otherwise, too much moisture will accumulate, and mold or other hazardous pathogens could begin to grow. Excessive moisture will also encourage insects.
 
We hope these simple greenhouse maintenance tips will help to keep your greenhouse a safe space as well as an ideal environment for plant life.

​As a homeowner, you can look for signs that your home is falling into disrepair, even if you don’t have much construction experience. The chimney is one area that might show some obvious signs that it requires maintenance. Here are some of the things to look out for:
 
Think about anything that may have happened to cause damage to the chimney. An example of this would be if any larger objects have fallen on it such as tree limbs or scaffolding, etc. Earthquakes, even small ones, could damage a chimney. The weather also plays a role by gradually eroding the bricks and mortar of the chimney.
 
So, what would a damaged chimney look like? If something has fallen on it the damage should be apparent but there are other observations you can make. For instance, when you look at the chimney, is it leaning or listing in any way? Take a step back to see the whole of the chimney, has it started to separate from the rest of the home? Do the chimney's footings show signs of deterioration? What condition is the mortar in? A good way to test it is to take a screwdriver and scrape the mortar if it starts to crumble easily then the chimney is in need of repair.
 
As we’ve mentioned, a homeowner can look for obvious signs of deterioration in a chimney, however, many other parts of the chimney are not so easy to see and these will require a professional inspection. So, if you are worried about your chimney, please feel free to contact us for more advice.

The majority of us know that asbestos is a dangerous material, however, many may not know the reasons for this and what it can do to a person’s health. This is something that should be of special interest to anyone thinking about buying or renovating an old home. So, let's look at some of the reasons why asbestos is so hazardous.
 
Older homes were often constructed using materials that we now know to be dangerous. Asbestos is one such material that was used in various aspects of construction up until the 1970's. If you purchase an old home that has not been touched since then, you could likely encounter it. Asbestos is a mineral fiber. Different types of asbestos fibers were used to provide added strength to materials and deliver fire resistance and heat insulation.
 
Risks associated with asbestos. When a person has been exposed to asbestos fibers over a prolonged period, they are susceptible to a variety of health problems. Mesothelioma which is a type of cancer affecting the chest lining and abdominal cavity and asbestosis, a scarring of the lungs with fibrous tissue are among the very serious diseases caused by asbestos.
 
Why should you be careful when fixing up an old home? If there is asbestos in the home, scraping, sanding or the handling of it, in general, can cause asbestos fibers to be released into the air, placing you at risk of inhaling them. Asbestos fibers stay in the lungs for a long time so we can see why breathing them in is so hazardous.
 
What should you do if you are worried asbestos is in your home? Get the home inspected so that the problem can be properly diagnosed. If it is found, you should not try to remove it yourself, but it should be taken care of by someone qualified in the safe removal of asbestos.