Category: Home Improvement

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Home Improvement

Why Are People Using Quartz Instead Of Granite Countertops?

If you know anything about granite, then you would have heard about its popularity in the kitchen as a great material for countertops. However, nowadays, there is another stone taking over granite, and that’s quartz. Here’s everything you need to know as to why people are choosing quartz kitchen countertops over granite.

Quartz Is Less Expensive

You might have a slight idea about the price of granite and how it’s one of the most expensive kitchen countertop materials in the world. Granite is a beautiful and durable material, but the hefty price isn’t justified at most times, by a lot of people.

On the contrary, however, quartz is actually a very cheap alternative to granite. It is just as durable (if not more) and it comes at a pretty reasonable price, so it’s literally a win-win situation. However, don’t expect a huge cost difference between quartz and granite.

Provides More Durability Than Granite

Granite is a hard material, but that’s not to say that it doesn’t get damaged by things like water and moisture. Quartz, on the other hand, is a lot more durable than granite in many ways.

For starters, it doesn’t chip or crack near the edges, which is a huge problem area for granite. Quartz is a very hard and strong material and it will last for a long time, without all of the hefty maintenance and caring.

With quartz, you can literally set it and forget it, which is perfect for people who don’t have a lot of time on their hands to maintain kitchen countertops, on a regular basis.

Doesn’t Need To Be Maintained

If you know anything about granite, then it wouldn’t come as a surprise to you that it is a maintenance-heavy material. There are so many areas that you need to look after, when it comes to maintaining granite counters, and frankly, that’s the reason why people don’t go for it.

Quartz, on the other hand, doesn’t need to be maintained on a regular basis. You don’t even need to seal it, which is a mandatory step in granite, otherwise, it will get damaged by water and moisture. So, you don’t just save a lot of money when buying quartz, but you also save a lot on maintenance costs, which is a huge plus.

The Texture Of Quartz Is Better

There is something about quartz, which is so appealing, especially the surface, because it’s so smooth and the texture is very even too. The appearance of granite is a huge selling point for a lot of people, but in comparison, quartz looks a lot more clean and crisp the appearance of quartz is downright beautiful and it will sate the inner minimalist in you if you want to go for something which has minimal designing and a beautiful look.

There is no harsh veining or dark colors on quartz, which a lot of people don’t find appealing at all, so it’s perfect.

It Is More Environmentally Friendly

Granite is a natural stone that is quarried from the Earth in huge slabs and stones and then, they are taken to factories where they are cut into more manageable pieces. This can cause a lot of damage to the environment and there’s also a depletion of natural resources.

Quartz, if you didn’t know this already, is a man-made material and it is made with packing broken rocks and sediments, combined with resin until it forms a solid surface which is a perfect addition to your kitchen.

This quality of quartz makes it less hazardous to the environment than granite. Yes, there is a lot of manpower and energy that goes into the making of quartz as well, but it’s not nearly as much as that of granite. As a bonus, quartz is also more long-lasting, which means fewer chances of replacements or repairs.

It Is Stain Resistant

Stains are a huge issue with granite countertops, which is why they need to be sealed so that no water or any other liquid can seep into the surface and ruin the look of the countertop. As for quartz, though, there is no issue of stains because it is non-porous in nature, from the start.

There are no pores on the surface of quartz, which makes the possibility of stains almost zero and you don’t even need to seal it in order to prevent stains from forming on the surface. This feature is greatly appreciated by a lot of people because let’s be real; who wants to maintain a countertop material regularly? This is also why people prefer quartz over granite.

Quartz Is Easy To Clean

Granite is very reactive if it comes into contact with acids and it can form huge holes on the surface. Acidic cleaners can eat away the material and this can ruin the countertop over time.

Luckily for quartz, there is nothing you need to worry about. It is very easy to clean and it can even be cleaned with regular soap and water. You don’t need to spend a fortune on specialty cleaners, because quartz is pretty low maintenance, in this way too.

There Is A Lot Of Variety

Granite countertops Rockville are available in a variety of darker colors, but if you want to go for some lighter and neutral options, then quartz has you covered. There is a whole lot of variety in colors in quartz, so much so that you can get confused as to which color you should go for. There are light and bright colors, neutral and warm varieties, and there are also a couple of darker colors that you can choose from.

Quartz is known for its light and neutral tones which is typically the first choice of most people because it’s that beautiful.

Repairs Are Easy

Quartz is a lot easier to replace and repair, in comparison to granite. With granite, you need to have a professional come in and deal with stains and water damage and the best way to rectify this issue is to sand it down. This can actually weaken the material and it can lead to the countertops looking uneven most of the time.

With quartz, however, the repair is super easy and you can even do it by yourself if there’s a small stain or crack here and there. Quartz countertops will definitely make your life a lot easier.

It’s Water Resistant

Last but not least, quartz is water resistant as well. This is also due to it being non-porous. Water doesn’t get sucked into the material, rather it beads up on the surface and you can clean it up right away with a swipe of a cloth.

Granite is definitely not friendly with water. It can get severely damaged by water, which is why it needs to be sealed in the first place. Sealing is not only tedious but adds up as you go, too. With quartz, there is no water damage.

Conclusion

Granite is great and all, but there’s obviously something more about quartz and why people are choosing this material over granite for their kitchen countertops. Find a quartz countertops dealer Potomac to see the different qualities of quartz and a huge variety of quartz colors.

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Home Improvement

What To Do If AC Is Not Draining?

Air conditioners work by eliminating moisture from indoor air to keep the house comfortable. The moisture leaves through the drain line to the outside of the building. However, if your ductless air conditioner fails to drain the water, it affects the performance of the unit. Let’s take a look at some reasons contributing to the issue and how you can prevent them in the future.

Disconnected Drain Line

If your air conditioner is failing to drain moisture, the first thing you need to check is the drain line. With time, the drain line tends to clog due to dirt and debris. In that case, the water will simply fail to flow through the pipe. It could also be that some connections are loose due to poor installation.

Try connecting the loose ends to see if the issue gets fixed. If not, chances are that the drain line is blocked. Unblock it by consulting the user manual to become familiar with the steps.

Clogged Drain Line

Another reason contributing to drain failure is dust and debris from the condensate. Try using bleach or a wet/dry vacuum to suck the clog out. Plus, grab a thin wire and poke the clog until the pipe unclogs. If the AC has not been maintained in a while, the blockage might be serious.

Worst-case scenario? You might have to change the drain line. Depending on the air conditioner, the process might be slightly complicated requiring a professional’s touch.

Rust In Drain Pan

Rust in the drain pan is a common issue with old air conditioners. If there is rust on your drain pan, it might prevent water from flowing to the drain line. The reason is that a rusty drain pan might have cracks or holes causing water to leak.

In this case, you should replace the drain pan. However, if the drain pan seems fine, you should use a hard brush with a cleaning agent to thoroughly clean it before reinstalling it.

Malfunctioning Condensate Pump

A condensate pump is a component located inside the air conditioner that pushes the moisture to the drain line. If the condensate pump tends to be malfunctioning, the moisture will not be able to make it through the drain line.

There could be several reasons why the condensate pump could malfunction. Then again, you will need to consult HVAC repair services Huntington and maybe replace the component.

Frozen Evaporator Coil

Air conditioners come equipped with condenser and evaporator coils that work together to produce warm and cool air. If you are living in a region that experiences extreme winter conditions, frozen evaporator coils tend to be a normal situation.

In such cases, modern air conditioners tend to activate the defrost function. If you observe that the evaporator coils of your air conditioner are still freezing, it might be causing the draining issue. As a result, the water will simply leak instead of exiting through the drain line.

Secondly, frozen evaporator coils can easily become damaged if they are left ignored. If the defrost function is not very effective, you should use lukewarm water to help melt the layers of ice.

Dirty Or Damaged Coils

In addition to coils freezing, dirt and dust happen to be the worst enemies causing coil failures. While cleaning the air filters is a necessary and basic part of maintenance, ensuring the coils are free of layers of dust and dirt is also equally important.

Coils help dissipate heat. If they are covered with layers of dust and dirt, the heat will simply not escape and will overheat the coils. As a result, the AC system performance will decrease leading to a permanent failure of the coils as well.

Keep in mind that condenser coils could be expensive to replace. So, when it is time to maintain your air conditioner, make sure to clean the coils during the process.

What Are The Signs Of AC Drain Line Being Clogged?

Puddles Of Water

One of the most common signs of an AC drain line being clogged is puddles of water. You will notice standing water on the floor. If the drain line happens to be clogged, the condensate pan will not be able to empty, causing the water to leak onto the ground. This means there is a clog somewhere in the air conditioner.

Water Damage

If the water does not exit through the drain line, it will leak and find a place to rest. As the water continues to collect, it will travel down to different areas of the house and cause mold in the walls or floorboards. So, if you observe that your walls and floorboards look suspicious, you should investigate if there is a water leakage issue.

Simply follow the trail of water and if it leads to the air conditioner, it surely means there is a blockage

Moldy Smell

A moldy smell is another sign that your air conditioner has a clog. In some cases, the smell takes time to be identified due to a clogged drain pipe, extra condensation, or a filled condensation drain pan. The growth does not take place overnight. In some cases, it might take a few days.

However, as soon as you notice the smell, you should turn off the air conditioner and try to investigate. In most cases, a clogged drain line comes out to be the issue. So, that should be your first point of concern.

How To Prevent AC Clogged Drain Issues?

The best way to prevent clogging issues is to provide professional maintenance to your air conditioner. Air conditioner maintenance depends on the usage frequency and the location of the air conditioner. If the air conditioner is used most of the year, then professional maintenance at least once or twice will suffice.

Furthermore, if the air conditioner is surrounded by trees, bushes, and other natural items, you will need to keep an eye on dead leaves, branches, shrubs, etc. The reason is these things can make their way inside the outdoor unit during thunderstorms and other extreme weather conditions causing damage to the components.

Therefore, you need to make sure the outdoor unit is clean and clear from debris and is installed away from trees and plants.

Should I Consult A Professional Each Time?

Consulting a professional when it comes to solving drainage and other issues ensures that your air conditioner is in safe hands. In most cases, homeowners attempt to fix issues on their own in order to save money but it ends up damaging the components.

This is why consulting a professional is like investing in your air conditioner. It will work smoothly for years to come without minor or major issues. Otherwise, air conditioners tend to become problematic after a few years if not maintained properly.

Therefore, instead of trying to save a few bucks, get your air conditioner maintained and fixed by an expert who knows the ins and outs of the unit.

Conclusion

In the end, drainage issues in air conditioners are minor in most cases but can turn major if left ignored. Keep the tips mentioned above if you happen to come across such a situation in the future. And, if the issue seems complicated, do not hesitate to call a AC repair services Smithtown.

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Home Improvement

How To Choose Condo Flooring For The Remodel?

Whether you’re doing other renovations as well with the flooring or focusing on just the flooring, take help from this guide for choosing the flooring, and don’t hesitate to ask home addition contractors about trending floorings.

Condo Flooring Options

Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood flooring is made of solid wood without mixing anything else in it. It’s wood throughout the plant. This makes it durable and natural. It’s an expensive type of flooring, but still a popular choice among condo owners.

As it’s a costly yet desirable flooring option, it increases the value of the condo as well so if you’re looking to sell your condo in the near future, installing hardwood flooring can get you better returns.

Pros Of Hardwood Flooring

  • The planks are made of natural solid wood.
  • Various types (maple, walnut, oak, cherry, ash, and many others).
  • Strong and durable flooring.
  • Increases the resale value of your property.
  • You can refinish hardwood flooring multiple times.
  • Well-maintained hardwood flooring can last for decades.

Cons Of Hardwood Flooring

  • It’s an expensive flooring type.
  • Hardwood flooring is prone to damage with moisture.
  • You should not install hardwood flooring in parts of the condo where moisture is persistent like bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements.
  • Hardwood flooring requires more maintenance than many other flooring materials. You may need to use a specialty hardwood floor cleaner once a month and also refinish it every 3 to 5 years.
  • It can get scratches and dents, especially in high-traffic areas.

Engineered Wood Flooring

This is considered a cost-effective more durable alternative to hardwood flooring. Engineered wood flooring is made of a thin layer of solid wood that is bonded to layers of high-quality plywood to form composite planks that are more durable than solid hardwood planks.

Engineered wood flooring is less prone to warping when exposed to moisture and temperature changes than hardwood flooring.

Pros Of Engineered Wood Flooring

  • The top layer is made of real wood and appears almost the same as hardwood flooring.
  • Various types of wood can be used to make engineered wood flooring. You can use any type that is employed for hardwood flooring as the top layer in engineered wood flooring.
  • It can last for decades if maintained well.
  • Less prone to expansion and contraction with temperature changes.
  • Moisture damage is seen less on engineered wood flooring compared to hardwood flooring.
  • Due to its better resistance to moisture than hardwood, engineered wood flooring can be used in kitchens, basements, and bathrooms as well.
  • Less expensive than hardwood floors.
  • You can install it yourself.

Cons Of Engineered Wood Flooring

  • You can install it in moist areas of your house, but you will need to be careful and maintain it well because engineered wood is susceptible to moisture damage after all. Moreover, there are better flooring options (tiles, stone) for moist areas so you should consider those options as well.
  • Engineered wood flooring can’t be refinished more than once.
  • Walking on this type of flooring sounds hollow compared to hardwood.
  • They emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs). They are emitted as gases from engineered hardwood flooring and many other engineered products and can cause health problems like skin irritation, difficulty in breathing, nausea, and damage to the central nervous system. Some VOCs can cause cancer.
  • You should clean water and spills immediately to avoid damage.

Laminate Flooring

It is a cheaper flooring option that looks like wood flooring. Laminate flooring is made with particleboard wood. The top part of this material has a photo of real wood printed on it for a wood-resembling appearance. On top of everything, there is a protective plastic coating.

Pros Of Laminate Flooring

  • Laminate flooring is fairly durable, but as much as hardwood flooring or engineered wood flooring.
  • It’s scratch resistant and good for condo owners who have pets.
  • It can get the design and color of any wood or natural stone on laminate flooring.
  • Laminate flooring is cost-effective.

Cons Of Laminate Floorings

  • Laminate flooring has the print of real wood on it but it’s almost never convincing. You can spot laminate flooring quickly due to the repetition of the wood design.
  • It gives off a plastic feel and sounds underfoot.
  • Laminate flooring can’t be refinished. If it wears off or fades, you will need to replace it.
  • Standing water on laminate flooring can damage it quickly.
  • Laminate flooring chips easily.

Tile Flooring

Tiles are commonly used in bathrooms and any moisture-prone area of a house or condo. This is due to the water-resistant and durability of tiles.

There are two types of tiles: ceramic and porcelain. Ceramic tiles are softer and affordable whereas porcelain tiles are denser, more durable, and resistant to water.

Pros Of Tile Flooring

  • With the two types, you can choose the tile with respect to the cost or durability you prefer.
  • There are limitless designs and styles of tiles. You can even choose various sizes of tiles and those with minimal grout lines.
  • Tiles are waterproof and work best in moist areas.
  • Tile flooring is low-maintenance and easy to clean.
  • Porcelain tiles are more durable and resistant to scratches and dents.
  • Porcelain tiles are also long-lasting.

Cons Of Tile Flooring

  • Tiles should be installed by a professional so this flooring is not DIY-friendly. Consult home addition companies McLean for tile flooring installation.
  • Porcelain tiles are costly and are in the same range as hardwood flooring.
  • Tiles are slippery when wet.
  • Tiles can be cold in winter. If you live in a colder region, consider heating under tile flooring.

Vinyl Flooring

It is also called resilient flooring and the most waterproof flooring that looks like wood. Laminate flooring is a multi-layered flooring made with plastic, fiberglass, and PVC. It has three types: Luxury vinyl plank (LVP), luxury vinyl tile (LVT), and vinyl sheets.

Like laminate it can have the image of any material you want like wood, stone, or ceramic. The topmost layer is the protective layer that makes it waterproof flooring.

Pros Of Vinyl Flooring

  • It is more durable than laminate flooring but less than hardwood and engineered wood.
  • Vinyl flooring is waterproof so you can use it in moist areas of the condo as well like condo kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements.
  • Standing water doesn’t damage vinyl flooring.
  • The multiple layers of vinyl flooring give off a softer feeling underfoot compared to hardwood and stone.
  • The multiple layers of vinyl flooring provide insulation as well and help in maintaining a consistent temperature.
  • Vinyl floors have mild soundproofing qualities as well.
  • DIY-friendly installation.

Cons Of Vinyl Flooring

  • It scratches easily so if you drag or move heavy items on the flooring, the scratches will be visible.
  • Vinyl flooring can’t be refinished. If it fades or wears off, you will need to replace it.
  • There are many qualities of vinyl flooring. Every type doesn’t add resale value.
  • Vinyl flooring is not environmentally friendly. Toxic chemicals are used during the manufacturing process that may emit VOCs which can affect your indoor environment and health.
  • The cost of vinyl flooring varies. Low-cost vinyl is less durable whereas some high-quality vinyl flooring may reach the cost of inexpensive wood flooring. Therefore, compare prices of vinyl, hardwood, and engineered wood before making a purchase.

Conclusion

The flooring of your condo impacts its appearance and resale value. For durability and appearance, choose engineered wood flooring, and for moist areas, tile flooring is suggested for your condo remodel McLean. Hire a contractor for flooring installation to prevent mistakes.

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Home Improvement

What Mistakes to Avoid During a Kitchen Remodeling Project?

New home remodel with new kitchen and diningroom in eclectic style

A kitchen remodel can significantly enhance your home’s functionality and appearance, but it is also essential to avoid common blunders that could make your dream kitchen into a nightmare. While exciting, kitchen remodeling companies can also be intimidating, particularly if it’s your first time.

Mistakes to Avoid During a Kitchen Remodelling Project 

Some of the mistakes to avoid during a kitchen remodeling project are as follows.

Not Setting a Realistic Budget

Setting an unrealistic budget for kitchen remodeling is one of the errors that homeowners make. You should set a proper amount to spend on remodeling your kitchen. Kitchen remodeling companies can help you in estimating your total cost. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that unforeseen costs could crop up. 

Neglecting the Importance of Functionality

When designing your new kitchen, utility should be prioritised over aesthetics. Consider how you use your kitchen every day and make the necessary adjustments to the layout. Make sure you have enough counter room and storage for all of your cooking necessities, for instance, if you cook a lot.

Not Hiring a Reputable Kitchen Remodeling Company

Making the correct choice for your kitchen remodeling project can make all the difference. It’s important to conduct a study and pick a business with a solid reputation and a history of completed projects. Do not feel reluctant to check reviews on the internet before finalizing the design. 

Rushing the Project

Depending on the size of the job, remodeling a kitchen can take weeks or even months to complete. Being calm and taking your time is crucial. Rushing the job increases the likelihood of errors and lower-quality results. It is important to set a realistic timeline for your project in collaboration with your kitchen remodeling company. 

Ignoring the Importance of Lighting

Even though good illumination is crucial in every kitchen, it’s frequently disregarded during renovations. To ensure that your kitchen is well-lit and practical, it is good to have a range of lighting choices, such as overhead lights, task lighting, and under-cabinet lighting.

Choosing Trendy Over Timeless

Although trends come and go, remodeling your kitchen is a long-term commitment. Instead of choosing trendy options that might quickly go out of style, it’s essential to choose classic design elements that will endure. This will make it more likely that your kitchen will stay fashionable and useful for many years to come.

Forgetting About Storage

Many kitchens lack a proper storage room just for kitchen appliances. When remodeling your kitchen, don’t forget to include plenty of storage options like cabinets, drawers, and pantry space. This will keep your kitchen clean, tidy, and organized.

Compromising on Quality Materials

The quality of the material is often compromised to save money. It’s necessary to spend money on long-lasting, high-quality materials. This includes flooring and equipment for cabinets and countertops. Investing in high-quality materials will help ensure that the kitchen looks good for a long time. 

Failing to Draft Future Plans

It is logical to keep your present and future requirements in mind when planning a kitchen remodel. Consider how your family might evolve in the future, such as whether you intend to have kids or whether your elderly parents might need to come visit. To ensure that the kitchen is functional for a long time, design it with these future requirements in mind.

Conclusion

Kitchen remodeling can significantly enhance your home’s functionality and appearance. However, it is crucial to avoid common blunders like unreasonable budget, overlooking functionality, hiring an unsuitable kitchen remodeling Bowie company, and rushing the project. You can guarantee a successful and stress-free kitchen remodel by avoiding these blunders and working with a reputable kitchen remodeling Bowie company.

 

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Home Improvement

How To Resurface A Pool

Swimming pool surfaces deteriorate over time and you need to refinish your pool to keep it looking new and beautiful. You hire a pool contractor to resurface your pool. However, if you’re a DIYer, keep reading to learn how to resurface your pool.

When To Resurface Your Swimming Pool?

You may need to resurface your concrete pool every eight years. However, if you notice some deterioration signs like surface stains, cracks, coarse texture, loss of pebbles, and discoloration, you can schedule a pool to refinish sooner.

Step By Step Instructions For Resurfacing A Swimming Pool

Before starting, create an estimate of the project’s cost. Prepare a list of the items you need and go to a store where you can check the cost of all the items.

Prepare The Area

You will need to clear the area surrounding the pool. You should remove furniture from the patio and near the pool, electronics, and other pool accessories. Use weather-resistant dropcloths in the area surrounding the pool to avoid dust and stains.

Moreover, while the pool is filled with water, check all the features of the pool to make sure they are functional. For instance, if a filter is faulty, you should repair or replace it first before going ahead with pool resurfacing.

Drain The Pool

From the central pump of your pool, change the settings to drain so it drains the pool water. If the pool pump is not accessible or not working, you can use a small submersible pump to force water out of the pool.

Repair Damages

Get inside the empty pool and look for cracks and crumbling, and other types of damage. If there are a few small areas that need patching, you should do. However, if you see any part of the pool that appears as a bigger problem, you should let a contractor inspect the pool to advise what you should do about it.

Clean The Pool

For cleaning the pool, you should first remove things like leaves and stones by hand. After that, go ahead with pressure washing the entire pool surface. This should remove stains, mineral deposits, algae, and other things.

Keep in mind that you must be thorough with the cleaning because even if a small amount of dust or debris is left, it can cause problems in refinishing the pool.

Strip The Existing Materials

For plaster, fiberglass, and composite surfaces, you should use the method of sandblasting. Make sure to wear safety gear during this operation.

After completing the process, use a vacuum to remove dust and debris. After this, remove the clothes you used during sandblasting and take them to an area somewhere else where you can easily clean them.

Keep A Check On The Weather

For the project to go well, you should select days when there is no possibility of precipitation and gusty winds. This is because the materials you’ll use for resurfacing require some time to dry up and rain or wind can hurt that.

Select The Materials

There are many options for surfacing materials. To keep it simple, you can choose a plaster or fiberglass finish. They are also cost-effective.

For choosing a finish, choose a long-lasting one such as pebble, concrete, ceramic tile, or quartz. They will be less likely to allow stains and algae growth.

Epoxy Paint

Use an epoxy primer that is specific for pool surfaces and apply it to your pool. When it’s dry, brush on 3 to 4 coats of top-coat epoxy on areas that are difficult to reach. When applying epoxy, sand the surface before each coat.

Spread Plastic On The Pool Surface

Create the plastic mix by putting the dry plaster components and water in a big bucket. Mix the plaster enough to reach a thick consistency. Use a trowel to spread it on the entire pool surface.

Apply Fiberglass

Take a thin seal coat and cover the surface of the pool with this liquid using a sprayer or paint roller. After this, spray a coat of resin. Then, roll and sand the layers and let them dry. Basic epoxy paint dries within a few hours. However, plaster and fiberglass take many days to dry up.

Afterward, check the features of the pool like lights and plumbing fixtures, and refill the pool.

Conclusion

Resurfacing your pool can drastically improve the appearance of your pool and increase its lifespan. Consult pool builders Long Island for proper resurfacing of your pool.

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Home Improvement

6 Chimney Cleaning Myths Busted

A red ceramic brick chimney standing at the rear of the building, by the facade, with a blue sky in the background.

To prevent corrosion of the chimney and avoid chimney fire, it’s essential to regularly clean your chimney. There are many misconceptions and myths surrounding chimney cleaning that can put homeowners at risk if they start following everything they hear about chimney cleaning. Therefore, we are busting common misconceptions that may be a good clue for you to get help from chimney sweep services for a chimney cleanup.

Myth #1: Metal chimneys don’t require annual cleaning

You can find different types of chimney flue liners like stainless steel and cast-in-place liners. Chimneys without a liner are considered hazardous so a chimney liner is an important part of chimneys.

Stainless steel is the metal commonly used for flue liners and its many benefits like it’s non-corrosive and can withstand the high amount of corrosive smoke and chemicals passing through the chimney. However, similar to other types of chimney liners, stainless steel liners require cleaning as well.

Stainless steel won’t corrode, but creosote and soot buildup will occur on the liner. Creosote and soot are black materials that can catch fire if enough amount of them builds up. Therefore, you must clean your chimney at least annually to sweep away creosote and prevent a chimney fire and avoid damage to the house.

Myth #2: You can skip cleaning the chimney of an unused fireplace before beginning its usage

This can sound convincing that if you haven’t used the fireplace, you don’t need to clean the chimney before starting to use it.

When a fireplace isn’t used, it won’t produce smoke. As a result, you won’t find any soot or creosote buildup on the chimney. However, chimneys collect dust and debris over time even when they are not in use.

If you don’t have a chimney cap installed on the unused chimney, it will become an ideal nest for birds and rodents. They create their home in your chimney and as the chimney is not in use, you won’t notice it.

This will block your chimney and if you happen to use the fireplace, the room will become smoky because no or less smoke will make out of the chimney and most of the smoke will turn back and enter the room.

Even if an unused chimney has a chimney cap, dust and debris must be cleaned before using the fireplace. So, make sure you clean your unused fireplace and chimney before using them.

Myth #3: No need to clean a chimney before liner installation

If your chimney didn’t have a liner installed or your existing liner is damaged, you will consider relining your chimney. However, make sure to clean your chimney before the flue liner installation. Failing to do so will keep a layer of creosote between the chimney walls and the liner.

Myth #4 You can DIY chimney cleaning

Chimney cleaning requires expertise and special equipment. This makes sure that the whole chimney is properly cleaned without leaving any spot uncleaned. A DIY chimney cleaning can be improper, might leave a spot, or leave contaminants that might cause problems like smoky fireplaces and chimney fires.

You can DIY your chimney cleaning every month, but for a thorough cleaning, you must hire an expert.

Myth #5: Softwoods create more creosote

Another common myth about chimney cleaning is that softwoods create more creosote and they must be avoided. But the fact is that creosote buildup is affected by the moisture content in the wood. Wood with higher moisture levels will create more creosote in comparison to firewood that has lesser moisture levels.

Freshly cut and green wood has high moisture while seasoned wood has lower moisture. Therefore, use seasoned wood for a lower rate of creosote buildup in your chimney.

Myth #6: Burning orange peels in the fireplace can clean the chimney

Orange oil has properties that can remove grease and is used in many cleaners. However, burning orange peels in your fireplace won’t clean the chimney. Your room will smell like oranges, but that’s it. The best method of chimney cleaning is by getting an expert to sweep it properly.

Conclusion

Your chimney will require cleaning annually if you regularly use it. Moreover, an unused fireplace and chimney should be swept by a chimney cleaning service Ellicott City before starting its usage to prevent a chimney fire.

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Home Improvement

Do Roots Of A Tree Damage House Foundations

A tree falling in the cut a tree with a chainsaw broken the tree after a hurricane

Every homeowner wants a natural touch in their home that takes the aesthetic appeal to the next level. While trees have several benefits to offer, they can also prove to be threatening due to which you may need to cut them down by hiring tree services. We are going to discuss how trees can turn from being a blessing to something you should look out for if their roots grow near the house foundations. Let’s begin!

Trees Can Cause Concrete Settling And Foundation Damage

One of the biggest misconceptions when it comes to planting trees is homeowners believe that trees can be planted anywhere. The truth is that trees need to be planted in areas that do not threaten the foundation and structure of the house. In addition to that, you might have come across some cases where homeowners had to dig up their yards to repair the network of drain pipes. This is because the trees are planted in areas that are affected by the roots as they expand.

Even though it takes years for the roots to expand, once the damage is done, the homeowners have to spend a lot of money and risk the tree’s life to fix the issue. There is a reason experts suggest planning the planting of trees. Anything that can come in contact with or influence the foundation or structure of the house should be kept at a distance.

Another thing to keep in mind is the condition of the soil also plays an important role in terms of damaging the foundations. You might have heard the term “Concrete Settling” which is rare nowadays but can be dangerous if it occurs.

If it occurs, the concrete may crack and can damage the foundation of your house. However, if there is a root disruption, you will hardly notice it especially if it’s a new house.

Signs Of Tree Roots Under The Foundation

Now that you know that tree roots can damage the foundation and structure of your house, it is important to become aware of the signs as well. The first sign you might notice is that your house is slanting towards the tree.

This happens due to moisture loss. As a result, the house may tilt to one side causing the foundation to detach. Additionally, you might notice visible foundation damage to your house. It could be that the trees in the surrounding or adjacent are sucking up all the moisture.

Some trees are naturally built to drink loads of water on a daily basis. Therefore, the soil beneath your foundation is left with almost no moisture leading to its collapse. And finally, if your sewerage or other networks suddenly leak out of nowhere, you might be surprised to find out that the culprits are the tree roots.

There have been many incidents in the past and continue to do so where the roots puncture the pipes and result in expensive repairs for the homeowners.

How To Prevent Root-Related Damage?

If you have been observing some root-related damages over time, you should take several steps to prevent the situation from turning worse. For instance, one of the ways to prevent root damage is by installing a root barrier. To do so, you will need to dig up all the way down to the foundation of the house.

During the process, you can cut any roots that come your way while installing the barrier. This is going to be a costly and tiring process but will prevent your house from being damaged by weather cycles and root growth in the future.

Another way to prevent tree roots from damaging the house is by opting for tree species that are slow-growing and have less aggressive rooting tendencies. Instead of opting for silver maples, willows, and elm trees, go for sugar maple trees.

And finally, the best way to prevent root damage is by considering how big the yard is and the location where the tree will be planted. If you do not have enough space, you should opt for tree species that do not grow extremely tall.

Conclusion

Concluding, preventing root-related damage is pretty easy if you are wise with your tree-planting decisions. If a tree is damaging your house foundation, have experts from tree removal companies Kensington to fell the tree and stop the roots growth.

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Home Improvement

7 Must-Have Drain Cleaning Tools

Machine for for cleaning blocked drains sewer wells in the a town street.

When you observe any issue in your sewer lines then you contact the sewer cleaning service to come over and resolve the issue. There are different types of tools that are required for cleaning the drains such as.

Drain Cleaning Camera

It is one of the handiest items for sewer cleaning services as it helps them to get the inside view of the pipe and locate the blockage. It is very useful because finding the location of the blockage is the most time-consuming task. Inspecting the pipes for residues and dirt has been made easier with these drain cleaning cameras. Once the location has been found, the plumbers can use the most effective techniques to clean the drains. However, not every drain cleaning contractors believe in using these cameras hence it is optional.

Drain Snakes

Drain snakes are commonly used to resolve small drain problems such as toilet or sink clogs. It can be used to remove a bunch of hair or a clump of dirt. Drain snakes are normally like a long and narrow metallic strip that easily goes inside the sink drain, tub drain or toilet. You can put the drain snake in the drain and push it a little so that whatever is clogging the drain breaks and gets stuck in the drain snakes, so it is easily pulled out.

However, mostly drain snakes are used along with a tool having a loop and a hook at one end that grasps the clogging stuff pretty easily. Augers are also used in removing objects like small toys or jewelry.

Hydro Jet Equipment

It is the most widely used equipment by sewer cleaning services. Hydro jetters or water jetters are the tools through which water comes out with very high pressure and this equipment has a nozzle that is inserted in the pipe which needs to be cleaned. Once it is inserted, water is supplied to the pipes and all the contaminants are knocked away including the toughest ones. It is also effective in eliminating gravel, sand, toilet paper and tree roots from the sewer pipes. Almost every drain cleaning contractor believes in using this technology. However, the usage also depends on the type of clogging issue you are facing in your drainpipes.

Kinetic Warm Ram

This device is quite similar to hydro-jetting equipment. However, hydro jet uses highly pressurized water to remove the debris whereas, kinetic warm ram supplies compressed air to the pipes in order to remove the contaminants from the drainpipes. This tool needs to be handled carefully because mishandling can cause wreckage in the pipeline because of compressed air. So, make sure that you handle it very carefully while doing it yourself otherwise professionals can do this for you very easily and much more effectively. Kinetic warm ram could be used to clean kitchen sinks, shower drains, laundry tubs, bathtubs, lavatories and floor drains.

Grappler Hook

It is efficient in removing solid particles causing clogging in your sewer and drainpipes. Grappler hook helps in eradicating even the large items like cans, bottles and even the particles of rocks. So, with the help of this tool, your drain issues would definitely be resolved pretty easily.

Rodders

Rodders are very helpful when you have to remove contaminants from your drainpipes that are causing clogging within them. These are semi-rigid cables that can be easily inserted into the pipes to push the debris out or to catch them in the rod so that they come out of the pipes as you pull the rodder.

Video Pipe Inspection Equipment

The drains are not certainly cleaned by a thing device, however, it is used by the plumbers to determine the inside condition of the sewer pipe. It can help in locating the area of issue and could also be used after the cleaning process has been completed to make sure if there are any residues remaining and the process is done in the right way.

The aforementioned drain cleaning tools are very effective in getting rid of clogged pipes and drain issues. You can either consult a drain cleaning contractor to get drain cleaning done by professionals or do it on your known following some basic instructions.