6 Creative Ways To Detect Hidden Water Leaks Without Damaging Your Home

There are numerous ways to do and make things happen. However, the most relevant stealthy problem people tend to face these days is detecting water leaks. For instance, leaks tend to damage the entire system, which uses up. After that, you may face an entire list of differences when not having access to the water leaks and their solutions at hand. Similarly, avoiding it is also extremely easy just by going through this article and applying it. You must only follow the right kind of process to make it all happen.

In this article, you will get to know the best water leak detector, which will tend to help you at times without any problem of conduct in between. Therefore, keep a check on the kind of problems that you might be facing in the process. Above all, you will be able to handle all these problems much more easily. For professional assistance, you may get the Top Water Leak Detector in Orange County within a less amount of time. Similarly, getting rid of all of them will seem very easy after you reach the end of this article.

1. Keep A Check On Your Water Meter

The water meter of your home gives a huge deal of information about the water set up entirely. After that, you must have a clear idea of the kind of water meter and the information it shows up on your screen. Similarly, a poor water meter may give you a bad setup with a lot of problems coming your way.

Therefore, it’s better to have professionals for quick detection and repair services of water leaks because they have the best water leak detector in Orange County for the leak you wish to verify and put up the right resources. The water meter will show some deflection even after switching it off after using if there is any water leak. However, it won’t show any deflection after use if the water component is in the right condition. This way works the best when checking for the water leak.

2. Check Out Your Bill

The water bill tells you a lot about the actual condition it faces over time. After that, take the courage to see the variations that might have come up in your bills over the past few months. The bill range will show variations if there is a leak that is still undetected. Try to hire professional plumbers in Orange County who can even check out if there is a hidden leak in underground pipelines. This will decrease the risk of billing activity and help you figure out the best solution to tackle the existing leak.

3. Use Your Common Sense

When you try to set up the leak repair facilities, make a sharp presence of mind. This will help you avoid making any major mistakes in the leak detection process. Also, make a wise decision when taking up the repairing services and hiring people for work. For instance, do not pay for the things that are going to be needless in the process of repairing and checking out the leaks. Above all, keep checking for the right resources to cover up.

4. Use Some Food Color

You may make use of food coloring substances to detect the leaks that may exist in the water tanks and systems. Similarly, these will help you know about the leaks in the toilet seat. For instance, after applying the color, start the flush to check if the color flows and deflects in different directions. You can notice color in different directions if the leaks are obstructing your system or not. Therefore, this is a genuine way to check out for all of it.

5. Check Out For The External Areas

The outer space of your home too must be giving you an idea of the leaks that may exist. Above all, you can use a hose to check the proper working ability of it. After running the hose for a few hours, replace the gasket. After that check, if the places are wet, they may indicate the presence of leaks. This way, you may get an idea of the leaks with ease. Also, the leaks indicate the seepage systems that will be existing inside the home.

6. Take A Visible Inspection

Taking a visual inspection of different places may definitely help you get the location of the leaks exactly. For instance, the place that will have leaks will definitely be visible on the walls. This mostly happens in the bedroom and other open spaces. Therefore, take a key idea from all of it and bring these facts out to detect the problematic area. Above all, take the help of expert plumbers in Orange County to carry out the process. This is a great way to point out the leaks and seepage easily and repair them on the spot.

Conclusion

Lastly, make sure to check up on the quality of repairs you are getting in return for your investment. However, make optimum use of the money by hiring the best water leak detector in Orange County. Have a top Water Leak Detector in Orange County and get efficient solutions.

Guest Contributor: Laura

Beginner’s Guide to Detect and Repair Water Leaks under the roof:

Water leakage under the roof is the most common and major problem of your house construction. The roof is the fifth wall of your home, which maintains all the other four walls. So, maintaining it is very much crucial. 

Reasons For Roof Leak:

There are many reasons for roof leaking like:

• A hole occurred in your roof.

• Missing or damaged shingles.

• Drainage issues.

• If the roof becomes old, it is a reason for leaking.

• Roof slope issues.

• Ridge caps and Valleys has cramped

• Cracked booting

• Ice dump build-up

• The problem of chimneys.

If you got water damage in a roof or walls, then contact top water leak detection professionals in San Diego.

How To Detect Water Leaks?

Water leaking is a critical problem for you. So the first thing you have to do is to detect your water leakage and fix them immediately. So here are some symptoms that can help you to know this:

• You can see water stains or damp spots on your ceiling.

• Towards your light fixtures or electrical outlets, you can see moist drywalls or paints.

• You can notice damp spots near interior air vents or fireplaces.

• There occurs bubbling or peeling in the paint during the rainy time.

• You can get a musty smell from your house.

• One big symptom is you can hear water dripping sounds every time.

• There was mold on the exterior walls and the meeting point of the roof wall.

• In your gutters, there will be Shingle granules.

• Always notice if your floor becomes wet or not. If it is wet, then be sure about leakage.

• Your house's roof nails will be exposed.

• Water will be stained on roof sheathing inside your attic.

• Around your chimney, you can notice the occurrence of the cracks.

• The color of your roof will vanish.

When you can notice this type of symptom, then you have to be sure that there is a water leak under the roof. 

What Steps Should You Take For This leakage?

Water leakage becomes a very big problem for you if you do not take action immediately. It can destroy your house's construction and design. In research, we come to know that if there is water damage, it takes only 24 to 48 hours to grow damps. So take care of it. Here are some procedures by which you can do it easily.

1. Fix The Leak Of Roof Vent Pipe:

Leaking a vent pipe is a common problem. You can overcome it by using:

• Flexible Roof Sealant:

You can apply it in the hole or the can. It can help you to fill up space.

• Vent Pipe Boot Overlay:

 You can use it over the old pipe. It helps to seal leakage.

• New Boot & Shingles:

You can exchange your old pipe with new boots & shingles around it.

2. Fix Roof Air Vent Leaks:

Leaking in the roof vent is a reason for water leaking. So you have to repair it.

• Screen Guard:

You can use a metal screen guard wire as a protection for air vents. It can help you to stop hard driving rain.

• Flexible Roof Sealant:

You can apply a flexible sealant to fill up your vent's holes, gaps, flashing, and loose shingles.

• New Vent & Shingles:

If there occurs a major leak, you can change it with a new vent and shingle around it. This helps you to make a strong roof.

3. Prevent Roof Valley Leaks:

A roof valley area contains a lot of water. So, you have to prevent this leak.

• Remove Debris:

 Removing debris from your roof valleys can help you to fix it. 

• Re-shingle Roof Valleys:

When you notice a big leakage in your roof valley, you install ice and water shields for your roof valleys. 

4. Repair Clogged Gutter Roof Leaks:

A clogged gutter is a problem of water leakage. If you want to repair water leakage in San Diego, then you should call the top water leak companies in San Diego to repair clogged gutter roof leaks.

• Remove Debris:

Debris should be removed from your gutter. It can help you in  prevention.

• Gutter Shield:

Using a gutter shield can help you to clean your gutter. When you use it to prevent leaves, twigs, and other debris from building up in your gutters.

5. Repair Roof Leaking Around Chimney:

When you notice cracks around the chimney then you come to know that water leakage occurs. So you can prevent it by some method. 

• Chimney Cap:

You can use a chimney cap for it. This cap will help you to keep water from entering the top of the chimney.

• Flexible Roof Sealant:

You can use flexible roof sealant in the gap. It repairs all the gaps, holes, or loose shingles which occur around the chimney.

• Cricket installation:

When you use cricket, it helps you to restrict debris and water for your chimney.

Conclusion:

Always take a step quickly when you come to know about water Leaks under the roof. Know the location of the leaks and use the above steps to prevent it and save your house. However, for the effective and precise solution, you need to call the top water leak detection and repair professionals in San Diego. If you are looking for the water leak experts, get emergency leak detection and repair service to protect your home. 

Guest Contributor: Laura

Home Improvements To Make Before Moving Into a New House

Moving out of a home and into a new one can be both exciting and stressful at the same time. It can be a seamless transition into a new and exciting part of your life if you have it all planned out. However, playing it by ear can make moving in become a disastrous and stressful event for you and your family.

Moving between homes requires a lot of work behind the scenes. It’s not something that you can do in a day. If you’re lucky, it might take you 2-3 days to settle into your new place. Most of the time, many things need to be done before you can truly move into the new house. For example, your new home might need a few repairs or renovations.

To make sure that your transition to a new home is as seamless as possible, here are four things you have to do before settling into your new house. 

Store your items properly.

Packing your belongings and decluttering can be super stressful, especially if you have a lot of stuff. It can add to more stress if the new home you are moving into is filled with leaks and cracks that need to be repaired. So, if your new place needs to go through repairs and renovations, it’s better to store your belongings in a storage facility.

You won’t have to worry about your precious items going anywhere, and you won’t have to deal with all the clutter while your new home is getting repaired.

Deep clean your new home.

After all the repairs, your new home will most likely be filled with debris and dust. Living in a dust-filled home can be bad for your health, and it won’t be comfortable. So, it’s recommended that you give the new place a deep clean and ensure that you keep the dust to a minimum.

You should also look out for signs of mold growth and try to get them removed since mold and bacteria can cause damage to your health. If you feel that you can’t give a proper cleaning, you can hire a professional cleaning company to do the work for you.

Observe for plumbing damage

Observing your new home for any signs of plumbing damage is one of the most important things you can do before moving in. You don’t want to wake up in the middle of the night to find that a leaky pipe has caused significant water damage. 

Make time to go around the house and check for leaky pipes or cracks in the house’s foundation. Consider bringing eco-friendly plumbing systems to your new home to save both on usage and bills. Leaving any issues unchecked will lead to more significant problems in the future. Instead of ignoring it, focus on repairing what you can and prevent long-lasting damage.

Repair and renovate before settling in

It’s never nice to live in a home while full-blown repairs or renovations are taking place. If you have plans to renovate or repair parts of your home, it’s wise to do it in advance to avoid losing sleep and comfort in the future.

Repairs and renovations can range from flooring, painting, childproofing, or something as simple as patching up leaks. Either way, it’s better to fix things up before you start living in your new home.

Wrapping Up

Whether you just purchased a new house or you decided to rent a new place, it’s still an exciting event. Without proper preparation and planning, your big move can turn into a nightmare. To avoid turning your big move into a disaster, make sure to do your homework ahead of time and look for signs of damage, get rid of mold,  get repairs done, clean every nook and cranny, and keep your things in storage in the meantime until your new place is ready. 

Guest Contributor: Diana R.

How to Choose The Right AC Unit for Your Home

Installing air conditioning is one of the most significant improvements a homeowner can make in terms of household comfort.

It also happens to be one of the most expensive, especially if you go for an entire central air conditioning system, which could cost anywhere between $3,000 to $8,000 on average.

Homeowners planning to install air conditioning must know how to choose a new AC unit to ensure that they get nothing but the right air conditioner for their needs.

For a homeowner on the lookout for a new AC unit, here are some tips that will help.

Determine The AC Type You Need

Some only need window air conditioners, which are big enough to cool a single room. They’re affordable and easy to install. You can also opt for through-the-wall air conditioners, which, as their name implies, must be installed through a wall instead of a window.

If your goal is to cool an entire house, your best bet would be a central air conditioning system. As already mentioned above, central air conditioning systems can get expensive. Still, if it’s within your budget, there are dozens of types and brands available in the market that you can check out.

However, keep in mind that unlike window or through-the-wall air conditioners, central air conditioning installation requires the expertise of professional HVAC technicians, who can also make recommendations about AC units that will serve your cooling needs best.

Choose The Right Size

In air conditioning terms, the “size” refers not to the physical dimensions of the AC unit but its cooling capacity as measured in British thermal units (BTUs).

For example, a 1-ton AC unit has the capacity to remove 12,000 BTUs of hot air from a given space per hour. The bigger the AC unit’s tonnage, the more BTUs of hot air it can remove.

In the world of air conditioning, bigger isn’t necessarily better.

An AC unit that is much too big for a given area will cycle on and off too frequently, leading to issues that include high levels of humidity, high energy consumption, and shortened AC unit life due to wear and tear.

On the other hand, a small AC unit in an area that’s too big for its capacity means it won’t be able to cool the space properly. Nevertheless, it will work tirelessly and virtually non-stop to do its job, which means it would have to use more electricity. All that hard work also means plenty of wear and tear and a shorter lifespan for the AC unit.

To ensure that your AC unit is the right size, you need to measure the square footage of the area that needs cooling and refer to BTU charts that AC sellers and professional AC technicians would be glad to provide you.

Other factors that you need to consider to make sure you get the right size AC unit include:

• The number of occupants

• Your home’s age

• The number of heat-generating appliances

• The amount of shade and sun your home gets

• The number and size of windows

• The height of the ceiling

With a right-sized air conditioner, your home should get cooled perfectly in the most efficient way.

Check the SEER

When shopping for a new AC unit, always consider the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio or SEER if you want an efficient way to cool your home.

The SEER is an essential efficiency rating for AC units, and it’s calculated by dividing the total number of BTUs of heat removed from the air over a cooling season by its total electricity consumption for that same period.

For air conditioners, the higher the SEER, the more energy-efficient it is. So, if your old AC unit had a SEER of 9, installing a new air conditioning unit that carries a SEER of 18 would translate to a 50% drop in your unit’s electricity use and lower utility bills.

Aside from providing energy savings, a high SEER AC unit cooling your home would also be more favorable to the environment.

It would also be fair to note that AC units with high SEER ratings tend to have higher price tags, too, although the energy savings would more than make up for the steeper initial cost in the long run.

Hire Dependable HVAC Contractors

The AC unit you buy tends to be only as good as the professionals who install it. Even if you purchased a perfectly sized, highly-efficient AC unit, it wouldn’t run as well as it should if the people who install it do not do a good job.

When hiring air conditioning technicians, always do your homework.

Ask for recommendations from people you know.

Contact at least three air conditioning contractors and ask for quotes.

When interviewing prospective contractors, always ask for licenses, certifications, and proof of insurance to establish that they’re legitimate air conditioning technicians.

About the Author

Rachel Watson is the Senior Content Editor of New AC Unit. Aside from heading the company's content marketing strategies, she writes articles about how to stay fit and energy-efficient home living.

Common Residential Plumbing Problems That Causes Major Issues

Some problems are inevitable in life and plumbing issues are one of them. There might rarely be any house in California or the United States that hasn't faced any plumbing issues. Sounds like the most common of the problems in residential setups but can be destructive if not corrected on time. The plumbing service may cost you a few dollars but is surely worth the damage that comes if you try to save it. 

Many small plumbing problems can be solved at home only. However, on repetition of the problem, you must not hesitate to get plumbing service Riverside, San Diego, Oakland, or wherever you are to get things done. While we take the common problems less seriously, stats show that small and ignorable plumbing problems contribute to the most damages to households annually.

We have been answering many of your plumbing-related queries here and you are free to check here if you are looking for plumbing services Riverside, Oakland, etc to get advice and save some bucks. Taking that forward we would like to discuss those common yet dangerous plumbing problems that can cause major issues in the long run. 

Leakage In Pipes 

A very common and easily observable problem at homes is leaking pipes. Yes, we see them and kind of ignore thinking that it’s a minor leak. A leakage in a pipe can be the start of some big issues like breaking of pipe joints, cracks on the surface, corrosion, etc. If you don’t act when it occurs first then it can only aggravate the problems. Just checking the cause and getting the plumbing services hired if something serious is noticed is the best way forward. 

Dripping Of Taps 

The irony here is that the dripping of the taps or faucets is not even considered a problem by many. Many people consider it a normal thing. However, the fact is that when not in use the faucet should not have any water dripping out. A leaking tap is an indication of some wear and tear in the rotational mechanism of the tap. It may be because the washer or ring of the pipe has got damaged. If not done on time then this can cost the replacement of the entire tap and maybe surrounding pipes. Also in a general sense, a leaking tap is a waste of resources and shall attract your attention and effort to stop it.

Clogging Of Drains

Clogged drains are something that is harmful both as a plumbing problem as well as from a health’s point of view. Generally clogging takes place due to the flow of hairs, soaps, sachets, etc through the pipeline of the drainage. This can lead to the blockage of the pipe and water accumulation. The accumulated water acts as a breeding ground for mosquitoes which cause many diseases. 

Moreover, the water can spill out and fill the space in your home damaging equipment and flooring. Therefore you must conduct routine drainage and main sewer line check to avoid issues. You can book the plumbing services on a yearly contract for this purpose as well. 

Low-Pressure Issue 

Decent flow pressure is required for the water movement in order to make sure that your plumbing system is good and working. However, the problem occurs when there is a fall in the adequate pressure required. Generally, the fall in water pressure may be due to the decrease in the efficiency of the motor pumping water. Also, it can be caused by leakages or damages in pipes as the water is moving out disturbing the flow. 

In either case, you should act when you notice the problem. A common indicator of that is the increase in the time of filling of your overhead tank as the motor pumping water is not able to generate that energy. Get the motor or piping repaired based on the problem that is there to ensure that you don’t face trouble later. 

Running Toilets 

Toilets are amongst the most used areas in the home. They cater to the needs of the entire family. Any issue there shall be immediately acted upon to be resolved. One such issue is the running toilets. The problem may occur due to an issue in the flush valve, refill tube, or leakage or crack in the wall. Issues in toilets cause major water loss and are a hint at some big problem. A crack or leaking valve can later cause you to change the entire setup or face moisturization of the toilet walls or overhead leakages. Thus, act fast when you notice the issue.

Conclusion 

As we discussed those common yet major issues of residential plumbing we are sure that you might have faced that. Now, maybe you have not acted on them considering them ignorable but now you know how much they can cost. Hiring Professional plumbing services and getting a routine maintenance check is the best idea to avoid long-term damages. With the plumbing services providers offering you discounted services and affordable contracts you should opt for the best one as per your needs to cut out the hassle. 

Author Bio:- Karl Brown

Karl, a marketing manager at EZ Leak Detection, loves to write about plumbing and HVAC services to make the life of the reader easier. Leakages in your property can be dangerous but not all the leaks are easily accessible. He has given extensive information about water leak and slab leak and tips to detect them quickly along with quick solutions to prevent you from inconveniences and health hazards. 

Leakage problems and malfunction of appliances demand comprehensive solutions. Also, regular maintenance is not the thing to be missed for leading life with zero hassles. Read our recent post related to leakage detection and repair, alerts for HVAC shutdown and how to repair it, and installation of AC and water heater in San Diego.

Tips to Extend the Life of Your Plumbing System

An ounce of prevention throughout the year can go a long way toward keeping your plumbing in good shape, from clogged drains, blocked kitchen sinks, and slow draining bathtubs to leaking toilets and busted pipes, and nobody wants to live in a house reeking with toilet water.

Here are some tips to prevent plumbing issues from occurring.

Be Careful With Plumbing Cleaners

Over the last decade or two, research has revealed that popular plumbing cleansers can cause pipe damage. As a result, many customers have shifted to more basic and gentle DIY plumbing cleaners. While these cleaners can help prevent pipe damage, they can also be overused. Using any cleaner too frequently might cause the walls of your pipes to deteriorate.

Keep in mind that you must only use cleansers to remove any stuck-on debris from your pipes. If no dirt or debris needs removing, the cleaner will work on the pipe itself. DIY cleansers will chew through your pipes much more slowly than harsh chemicals, but they will eventually eat through them. It would be best if you used pipe cleaners gently to avoid damaging your pipes. 

Avoid Flushing Flushable Wipes

While flushable wipes appear to be a good idea, they cause severe issues with your plumbing. When flushable wipes mix with water, they degrade in sewer systems. Unfortunately, this is a slow process. As a result, flushing a lot of wipes can block your pipes and septic tank.

A clog in your septic tank might result in more than a backup. Bacterial growth can occur, causing your tank and pipes to deteriorate. If this happens, you will want the services of a trained plumber to unclog the system. In extreme circumstances, your septic tank may need to be excavated and replaced.

Stop Throwing Grease Down Your Drain

Another common cause of drain clogs is grease. While it may appear to wash away, it sticks to your pipes like glue, causing them to become sticky and rough. Every imperfection in your pipe might cause water to slow down and trap food particles. This form of obstruction will only worsen with time. Furthermore, it reduces the diameter of your pipe, making it more likely to impede water flow and pressure.

Many individuals gather and dispose of grease in old jars. Check your town's ordinances to find the recommended disposal methods. Many towns have designated drop-off locations where you may properly dispose of trash. Grease disposal in this manner will significantly extend the life of your plumbing system.

Make Sure to Repair Minor Plumbing Issues Immediately

Fix minor plumbing issues as soon as possible if you want to avoid serious plumbing issues. Minor problems, such as leakage, can quickly escalate into much more significant issues. The pipes in your house are all connected. A problem in one part of your house can lead to more significant problems elsewhere. Many of these modest adjustments are also inexpensive. If you wait for a big problem to happen, it will cost you more to get it fixed, especially if you need emergency service.

Always Keep your Drain Clean

The most common problem with plumbing is clogged drains and pipes. You can avoid this by keeping your drains clear and cleaning them every after use. Not only does this stop the restriction of water flow, but it also stops large clots from forming hair, and other debris can ball up into major clots if you let it gather up, but keeping the clean drain every day will ensure you a functioning and clean drain. 

Following these tips will help you avoid plumbing issues. Keep in mind that prevention is always better than cure. Another tip to get your pipes cleaned easily is installing HVAC access doors and panels to ensure you will have safe and easy access. Getting your pipes rodded and camera’d is also easy, contact your local plumber and they’ll be happy to help.

Guest Contributor: Chris Jackson

Tips For Preventing Water Damage In a Commercial Building

Water leakage damage in your business may be devastating. Not only will it cost you a lot of money to clean up and get it repaired, but it will also slow or even shut down corporate activities. Water damage will cause your business to suffer, whether it's managing the diversion, sending employees home for cleanup, or losing equipment and documents. 

This article will show you what you have to look out for to avoid damages caused by water leaks in your commercial building.

You should identify leaks and cracks and get them repaired right away.

Here are the areas you should always look out for leaks and cracks

Windows and doors: Inspect your windows, storefront systems, and doors for leaks.

Improper drainage systems and roof slopes: When these get damaged, it will shorten the longevity of your roof and serve as a significant cause of moisture incursion. Leaks are also prevalent around exhaust or plumbing vents, rooftop air-conditioning units, or other specialist equipment.

External walls and joints: Have any cracks and gaps in these areas sealed—cracks in these areas are natural because of differential soil settlement.

Plumbing: Look for dripping pipes, including fire sprinkler systems, clogged drains both interior and outdoor, malfunctioning water drainage systems, and broken manufacturing equipment.

HVAC systems: checking your HVAC for leaks and damages is an essential component of sustaining a healthy, comfortable work environment. The HVAC system has several components, such as chilled water piping and condensation drains that might directly contribute to excessive moisture in the workplace and household. Furthermore, one of the system's functions in humid areas is to lower the ambient air moisture level throughout the structure. An incorrectly working HVAC system will not perform this function.

You may also need proper inspection and maintenance programs for your building. 

Periodic inspection should be part of your maintenance plan to prevent water leaks or drainage issues. Here are the areas where you need to do the inspection the most:

Flashings and sealants: Flashings, often thin metal strips seen around doors, windows, and roofs, are designed to keep water out of gaps where two building elements meet. Sealants and caulking prevent moisture from entering construction joints. Both must be well-maintained and in good working order.

Vents: All vents should have proper hoods, exhaust to the outside, and be in working order.

Manufacturing equipment: includes water for processing or cooling, ensuring that wastewater drains properly and without spillage. Examine the area around hot or cold materials or heat-transfer equipment for condensation.

HVAC systems: Commercial buildings are substantially more intricate. Examine the supply and return water lines, pumps, air handlers, and other components for leaks. Drain lines should be free of debris and clean. Other than specialized facilities, the relative humidity in your building should range between 30% and 50%. Condensation on windows, wet spots on walls and ceilings, and musty odors are all symptoms of high relative humidity. If you are concerned about the humidity levels in your building, talk to a mechanical engineer, contractor, or air-conditioning repair business to see if your HVAC system is correctly sized and in excellent operating order. 

Damp areas: You must clean and dry all surfaces where moisture frequently builds regularly.

Expansion joints: They absorb movement between bricks, pipelines, and other building elements. Water intrusion might occur if the expansion joints in your building are not in good condition.

Proper maintenance and periodic inspections protecting your building from damages caused by water breaks will be a piece of cake. Also, make sure to have your fire-rated access panels for plaster installed so that the maintenance crew can easily access the pipes or HVAC systems!

Guest Contributor: Chris Jackson

What Do You Need to Know Before Signing a Building Contract?

A building contract is a legally binding document and its purpose is to protect your assets and interests. Keep in mind that regardless of building new construction or expanding your building, this is probably a major investment. Furthermore, if you’re constructing a family home or renovating one, chances are that you’ll put your entire quality of life on the line. A missed deadline or a mistake during this project can cause a major problem. Here are several considerations you need to make before signing a building contract in order to avoid all of this.

1. Start with the basics

When it comes to making a building contract, the first step is to establish the basics. However, what is the basic of a building contract? Well, there are several items that need to be on this list:

• Personal information of the contractor

• The building license number of the contractor

• The date of the contract

• A detailed description of the work

• Fixed price or agreed upon fee

If the exact price cannot be specified, you need to explain why this is the case. Keep in mind that while some factors in this field are volatile, the above-listed should be specified as soon as possible. This is the only way to make the contract in question reliable.

This is important for home improvements, as well, not just new constructions.

2. The devil in the details

Depending on the nature of the construction, you need to specify the details of the project. First, there’s a difference between building new construction and simply making a home extension. Technically, however, both of these things require a building contract.

Now, sometimes you want the works to look exactly the way you’ve envisioned them. So, the rules need to be set from the very start. Keep in mind that the contractor has the right to argue against or refuse to sign the contract if they believe it contains something unreasonable. This can be altered and amended before signing.

Proper communication is important but you need to understand two things. If there’s any ambiguity in the wording of the contract, the court is bound to rule in favor of the party that didn’t compose it. This is why it’s so important that you work with seasoned legal experts while making it. Also, try working with reputable home builders in order to avoid dealing with people who hunt for these ambiguities.

3. Look for a contractor with all the insurances

There’s so much that can go wrong during the construction project and the insurances usually depend on the contractor. The problem is that these insurances vary by state. Also, some construction companies get insurance packages, some of which don’t contain all you need.

While this is not something that you are supposed to be knowledgeable of, omitting this while examining the contract can be a major problem. This is one more reason why you want someone experienced in the field to examine the contract in your stead.

Keep in mind that you want to get insured in a case where the contractor decides to just quit in the middle of the project. Unbelievable as it may sound, this was known to happen. With the right warranty, you will be protected from the financial consequences of such occurrences.

4. Complying with regulations

Now, the last thing you want is to believe that just because they are licensed and have a positive track record, that they’ll do everything by the book every single time. This needs to be verified and ensured through the contract. First of all, you want to have relevant statutory warranties. Second, you need to ensure that they comply with the building code.

Naturally, there are some situations in which your requests will make compliance impossible. Regardless of other circumstances, this needs to be stated in the contract. Also, the reason why compliance is impossible in this particular situation needs to be explained (in detail).

5. Completion date

This is one of the most complex issues there are. Namely, the completion date or the deadline is often hard to give, seeing as how the weather or other unforeseen circumstances may change. Rushing to meet an unrealistic deadline can result in workplace injuries and worse. Therefore, there are several things you need to know before signing a building contract.

First of all, the contractor can start with an assumption that there will be delays and missed days. This will make them set a deadline a bit further. Also, the ability to do a specific amount of work in a day often depends on the number of people on the site. A contractor who is behind on the schedule can temporarily bring in people from the other site or get more workers for the time being.

In other words, while unreliable, the completion of the project is not impossible to predict, therefore, you can feel free to insist on it.

In conclusion

In the end, you need to examine the contract and have a professional take a look at it. Keep in mind that even though this is a document that needs to follow a certain bureaucratic format, you can never go into too much detail. Remember, if there’s something you want the contract to say, just make sure to put it in. Now, if there’s a reason why this cannot be fulfilled or legally binding, there’s someone who will point it out. Whenever dealing with contracts, make sure that you have some professional help.

Guest Contributor: Gabriel Hill

Five Tips for Cleaning Your Driveway

Your driveway. It might not be something you think about constantly, but it does a lot more than just provide space for parked cars, or a path to your garage. It’s literally your own personal road, leading to your home. Along with your yard, it’s likely the first thing people will notice about your house. And that means it’s essential to maintaining your curb appeal. 

But as important as your driveway may be, it’s often one of the most overlooked parts of your home. While you regularly make a point to clean just about everything, from your kitchen to your gutters, many people completely forget about the driveway. And a sad looking driveway leads to a sad looking house. 

Simply put, you need to start cleaning your driveway.  

There are a lot of things to consider when cleaning your driveway, but we’ve narrowed it down to five essential tips that should help keep your driveway in tip top shape. 

Gather the Following Supplies

You’ll want to make sure you have a handful of supplies to clean up any and all stains and discolorations you may find on your driveway. Those supplies include—

• A bucket

• Biodegradable soap or detergent

• A scrubbing brush

• Sawdust or cat litter

• Degreaser 

• A clean towel or cloth

• A sturdy push broom

You may not eventually use all of these supplies (that will depend a lot on how dirty your driveway is, and what tools you’ll be using) they’re always good to have on hand to make sure you add some sparkle to your driveway. 

Look for Isolated Spots on Your Driveway

The first thing you should do, once you’ve decided to clean your driveway, is to look for any noticeable spots or stains. These are the first things you should be cleaning, as they will make the most difference to your driveway’s appearance once they’ve been removed. 

Just walk along your driveway and determine what areas stand out to you as looking stained, or dirtier than the rest of the pavement, concrete, or whatever material makes up your driveway. You can make note of it, or if you want to be very thorough, you can take some sidewalk chalk and circle areas you’ll want to be sure to focus on. 

This serves two functions—it helps guide your eventual cleaning, and you’ll also know that if any chalk remains after you’ve washed down the area, you probably haven’t cleaned it enough. 

Determine What Kind of Stains You’re Cleaning

Once you’ve established the “problem areas” of your driveway, you’ll want to determine what kind of stains you’re cleaning up. Stains from car fluids and motor oil need something absorbent to stop the stain from seeping into the driveway—that’s where cat litter comes up, since you can use that to soak up most of the fluids or oils before doing a more intensive cleaning with biodegradable soap or detergent. 

Similarly, if you’re cleaning up organic debris, and stains left by leaves or mud, you’ll be using your broom to clear any material or debris, and then your detergent or soap mixed with warm water in your bucket to finish cleaning the area. 

You might also find rust if you have a concrete driveway, which will require special materials (we recommend mixing muriatic acid with water to clean those stains). Paint stains will depend on the type of paint—a latex-based paint is relatively easy to clean, but acrylic and oil paints might require covering the stain with asphalt sealer, since paint thinners can actually damage asphalt and pavement. 

The key is to know what kind of stains you’re dealing with, so you can form a proper plan of action and clean your driveway without damaging it. 

If You Have One, Use a Power Washer

No matter what you’re cleaning from your driveway, the most efficient way to clean it is always the same: use a power washer. While you can always hire professional power washers, power washing is something that can be done by anyone at their home, assuming they have the right equipment. 

If you already own a power washer, you’re in luck. You’ll want to put detergent into your washer, following the manufacturer's instructions. Then you just want to wash down the entire driveway (the best part of having a power washer? You don’t have to worry about your isolated spots nearly as much, because you’ll be able to effectively clean the whole driveway all at once). 

Let the detergent soak for about ten minutes before going through once more with a 25-degree tip. This should clean most of the driveway, but a few of those stains might linger. To remove those, use your 15-degree tip, and blast those areas until they are as good as new. 

Of course, if you don’t have a power washer, but are considering buying one, you’ll definitely get your money’s worth, since a power washer can be used for much more than just cleaning your driveway. 

Cleaning your Driveway Without a Power Washer

Now, most people don’t have a power washer, and you might not want to spend the money to hire a professional or purchase a power washer. And that’s okay! You might need to use a little more elbow grease, but you can still effectively clean your driveway. 

First, you’ll want to get a high pressure nozzle that can be used on your garden hose. If price is a concern for you, don’t worry! Almost all of the most popular nozzles available are under $30, and you can get a perfectly acceptable one for just $10.

Next, using your push broom, clear any dirt and debris from the driveway. If you can get washing soda, we’d recommend it, but if not, you can use your detergent or soap, mix it with water, and use your scrubbing brush to scrub your entire driveway. Don’t be shy here, you’ll want to brush with as much force as you can to really take away those dirt and stains, focusing on those isolated spots you’ve previously identified.

Finally, using a garden hose with a high pressure nozzle, wash down the entire driveway, paying particular attention to the stains you’ve worked on the most. It may take a little longer than using a power washer, and it might require a little more manual labor, but you should come away with a gorgeous, clean driveway that can be the envy of your neighbors. 

No matter how you go about cleaning your driveway, you’ll notice the difference immediately. It will make your yard and your home instantly look cleaner and more fresh. So if you’ve been neglecting your driveway lately, it’s time to make a change, and clean that driveway.

Guest Contributor: Jeff Good

Pros and Cons of Underground Water Tanks

When you need to store potable water, a water tank is the best option, but many water tanks are unsightly regardless of their color or material. Underground water tanks are the ideal solution for storing water out of sight. Like traditional above-ground water tanks, underground water tanks have their benefits and disadvantages. Below we explore the pros and cons of underground water tanks to help determine if they are right for you.

Pros of Underground Water Tanks

Underground water tanks primarily offer space-saving benefits and increase water storage efficiency.

Save Space on Your Property

Underground water tanks are hidden aside from occasional pipes going into the ground to the unit. This helps save space on your property so you can take full advantage of your land. Like septic tanks, underground water tanks can be installed beneath your lawn with access pipes, making them accessible while still concealed.

Avoid Unattractive Aesthetics

Water tanks are often bulky and unattractive. You don’t want a giant metal or plastic water tank disrupting the aesthetics of your beautiful yard and home. An underground water tank is installed close to your home without getting in the way of your property’s appearance.

Wear and tear also affect your water tank’s appearance. Rust and dirt appear over time on metal or plastic tanks, adding to their ugliness.

Protect Your Water Tank

When your water storage tank is installed above ground, the effects of weather, vandalism, and accidental damage can wreak havoc with your potable water storage. In some cases, you may even need to install a fence to protect your tank. With an underground water tank, this is not an issue because you are the only one who can access it.

The water inside an underground water tank is also protected due to stable underground temperatures, so the weather does not affect water temperature. No matter the season, water will remain cool enough for crop irrigation and drinking. The outside of the tank also stays protected from physical damage, which increases its longevity.

Maximize Your Water Storage

If you have limited space on your property and need to install a potable water tank, you are not out of options. Installing an underground water tank is the ideal solution for storing water when you don’t have the space for a huge tank. Using an underground water tank allows you to keep more water than your current above-ground situation allows.

Cons of Underground Water Tanks

The cons of underground water tanks are less evident but can lead to problems if your tank is not maintained regularly.

More Expensive to Install and Maintain

Underground water tanks are more expensive to install due to the labor costs of digging a hole for them and hooking up access pipes. Because they are underground, these tanks will also require an additional water pump to aid in bringing water to you against the force of gravity. Underground tanks also must be given extra protection to withstand a lack of maintenance.

The maintenance of underground water tanks is more costly than above-ground water tanks due to the difficulty in accessing them. Structural issues with your tank can occur without you noticing, causing your water bill to soar.

Difficult to Maintain

Underground water tanks are tough to maintain in general. If your soil is not suited for your tank, it can lead to wear and tear that can contaminate your water supply. Improper soil types also make it challenging to maintain your underground water tank by hiding cracks and chips in the tank material.

More infrequent maintenance caused by accessibility issues can potentially degrade your tank. If not regularly checked and maintained, more problems will arise, and you may need to rehaul your water tank storage system completely. Once problems occur with your water tank’s material, it can be impossible to restore your tank to its original condition.

About the author: Steve has been writing on water tanks related topics for over a decade. This article is written by him for National Storage Tank - leader in above and below ground water storage tanks and systems