Archive for the Home Restoration Services Category

Having a deck attached to your home is a great way to enjoy the outdoors. However, an exposed deck is subject to all the weather we face here in Maryland. Over time, rain, snow, and sun can take their toll and cause the deck’s condition to deteriorate. The older a deck is, the more likely its condition can lead to failing and potentially falling. The last thing you want is to put your guests in danger while they are enjoying a beautiful Maryland day or evening. An overcrowded deck could collapse if not properly maintained. Here are a few problems that could arise and lead to deck collapse. Ledger Boards Pulling Away or Splitting The most common cause of deck collapse is a failure in the ledger boards, as the ledger boards attach most decks to the home. Depending on the age of your deck, you might have nailed it

Having asbestos floor tiles in your home should not be a danger to your health until you have to remove them. If asbestos becomes airborne, it can cause asbestosis, mesothelioma, or lung cancer. Asbestos used to be a common substance mixed into building materials to make them stronger and heat resistant. If your vinyl floor tiles were put down before 1980, they most likely contain asbestos. Removing Asbestos Floor Tiles Properly Because of the serious health hazard caused by airborne asbestos, it is not recommended for homeowners to remove floor tiles themselves. Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) only allows homeowners to remove non-friable asbestos floor tiles. If floor tiles are friable, hand pressure can crumble or pulverize them. In this case, a licensed asbestos contractor must handle the removal. MDE recommends using wet disposal methods and for homeowners to wear proper PPE, including a respirator and protective disposable clothing.

Roofing replacement can be costly, with most homeowners putting it off until problems show up. Whether it’s a leak in the roof or shingles blowing off in high winds, there is a case for roof repair and replacement. The choice to make depends on a few factors. The Age of the Roof The average lifespan of an asphalt shingle roof is between 15 and 30 years. If your roof is relatively new and in good shape, repairing just the damaged or missing shingles may make sense. However, if your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, it’s probably best to replace it. How Long Do You Plan to Live There? If you plan to sell your home in a few years and the roof is in good shape, you may consider repairing it. However, if you want to stay in your home long term, it might make more sense

A disaster can strike without warning. If a fire, emergency, or severe weather were to occur, does your family have an emergency plan in place? If not, we’re going to help you with creating an emergency family plan. Gather the Family The first part of making a family emergency plan is to gather all your family members together. Walk through your house and inspect all windows and doors as possible escape routes and emergency exits. Once you’ve figured out the best escape route, move on to the next step. Sketch a Map Creating a map of the home and all emergency exits is a great way to visualize how to get out of the house safely during a stressful situation. This is especially useful if you have children. On the map, have your kids help you mark all the doors and windows and where the escape routes are. Including your

The Atlantic hurricane season begins on June 1st and is trending to be more active than usual. It’s essential to be prepared for any natural disaster before it happens. Getting organized and having a plan in place will make it easier for you and your family when severe weather hits. Create a Storm Plan If you have not already done so, create a written disaster plan with your family and have them all review it. It should include: Marked emergency exits A meeting place near your home (building, known landmark, park, etc.) The location of emergency kits If the family gets separated during a big thunderstorm, hurricane, hail storm, or other weather events, have them meet at the designated location when it is safe to do so. Assign a relative or trusted friend as an emergency contact person and make sure each family member has their contact information. Ensure all