​A lot of homeowners enjoy having trees on their property which add beauty to any landscape.  But what about when a tree or trees are positioned very close to your home?  Could they be putting it at risk of structural damage etc.?  Let’s look at some of the possible issues that can arise from trees being too close to a building:
 
One of the big worries for homeowners is that the trees roots will cause damage to the home’s foundation.  Can this happen? If cracks already exist in the foundations, roots can make their way into the cracks.  If roots grow big enough, they can also grow under the home’s foundation causing to lift.
 
There are other risks from trees being close to a home.  For example, a trees branches or limbs could fall on the roof or power and communication lines.  They could also easily fall and hit someone, causing injury.  This risk is increased even more if the tree is old or dying.  Falling leaves and branches could clog up gutters and downspouts which could start to create structural issues if left untreated.  Insects and rodents would be able to gain easier access into the home and there is danger from fire, especially in an area at risk of wildfires.
 
Yes, there are certain risks associated with trees being positioned too close to a building.  This is something you might wish to think about if you are building your own home.  If there are trees close to your home, why not have a periodic check of them to make sure they are still healthy.  A dead or dying tree would pose a greater danger and may need to be removed altogether.
 

​There are certain odors in a home that can be especially difficult to eliminate.  One of the worse and most stubborn odors is that which comes from tobacco smoke.  Smoke particles are tiny and can permeate everything.  If you move into an apartment where no one has ever smoked, you could still have a problem with tobacco odor from a neighboring apartment.  So, what are some initial steps you can take to get rid of this type of odor in your new home?
 
As soon as you get access to your new place try to ventilate every room and get the air moving.  If you can, leave windows and doors open for good air flow.
 
Perhaps you are someone who prefers a natural method of odor removal.  There are a variety of things you can use to absorb or neutralize odors naturally, here are a few of them:
 
Coffee grounds work well at neutralizing bad odors.  Put some coffee grounds in filters and place them in rooms around the home.  Vinegar is another great odor neutralizer; the smell is sometimes a little off putting, but it is very effective.  Baking soda also works very well against bad odors, be careful when using it around furnishing though.
 
Why not try citrus peel?  Leave in around the home for a few days.  This is also good as it has that fresh citrus scent.  Charcoal is also great for tackling bad smells.  Leave bowls of charcoal around the home.
 
Although tobacco smoke odor is a very difficult smell to tackle, these simple suggestions will help to neutralize and freshen your new place.