National Property Inspections of Rochester, NY Blog

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(ARA) – Protecting your home means you’re pitted in a constant struggle against the forces of nature. Products and improvements that help you beat the weather are a smart investment.

Look for “weather beater” products that are low maintenance or that provide solutions to harsh climates and moisture. Remember, weather damage can occur in any season, whether it’s from hot or freezing temperatures, driving rains or rising flood waters.

First line of defense

Water damage can happen to any home in an instant, ruining valuable electronics or priceless family heirlooms. Even if you’re not in a flood zone, it is wise to invest in a main sump and battery backup pump.

“When storms hit or snow melts off, the ground gets over saturated and the water can enter your home,” says Tony Ferrante, vice president sales and marketing, Wayne Water Systems. “Sump pump systems are easy to install and provide years of worry-free service.”  And, he advises, if you’re in a water-prone area, the sump pump should have a reliable battery backup pump, since power tends to go out during storms. For removing standing water in an emergency, such as pipes bursting or a sink or washing machine overflowing, utility pumps also come in handy.  Many are portable and submersible.

A complete basement protection system is a minor investment compared to the extensive damage water can do to property and sentimental items that can’t be replaced. It is your first line of defense to protect your biggest investment: your home. Visit www.waynepumps.com for more information or go to amazon.com and key in Wayne Pumps.

Decks that endure

Moisture can be your deck’s worst enemy if it’s made of wood or has wood content. Decking and porch materials are available that have the rich looks of wood, but are resistant to moisture, insects and freeze/thaw conditions. The home exterior experts at AZEK Building Products say the latest innovations are cellular PVC deck boards and porch planks that stand up to weather with a durable, natural looking surface.  

“It resists any type of food stains you can dish out, including red wine and barbecue sauce,” says Brian Kincaid of AZEK Building Products. He cautions to always ask for a code report for any decking product, since many building permits require this.  

An outdoor haven with classic looks

Rain or hot sun does not have to limit your outdoor enjoyment.  Enhance your entryway or backyard with a beautifully crafted pergola featuring rain-resistant or waterproof canopies in a range of colors and designs to add comfort and protection from weather.  

For example, Walpole Woodworkers features pergolas in natural wood or low-maintenance cellular PVC to withstand the elements.  With the added option of a manual or motor-driven retractable canopy, homeowners can enjoy shelter from rain, UV-rays and even add privacy with retractable side panels.  The company offers free pergola or canopy design consultations at (800) 343-6948 or www.walpolewoodworkers.com.

Caulk goes above and beyond

Water damage and energy leaks can threaten your home and drain your wallet. Caulk delivers more bang for the buck than expensive technologies like solar, according to a March 6, 2009 Wall Street Journal article. A third of the energy loss in homes could be stopped by simple caulking and insulating, the article says.

One way to head off moisture or beat extreme temperatures is to buy the best caulk you can find.  One example is LIFETIME Caulk from Red Devil, recognized for its durable “lifetime” seal with a warranty against weather damage for the life of the home. “Caulk is easy to apply and can result in up to 20 percent savings on utility bills,” says Jason Ringling of Red Devil.

Homeowners who want to protect their homes, increase resale value or enjoy low-maintenance exteriors can make sound product choices now, rather than pay big bucks to repair problems later. It is possible to stay one step ahead of Mother Nature.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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(ARA) - Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are often out-of-sight and out-of-mind when you’re looking to buy a new home, moving into one or just making sure your current home is in good repair. However, updating your HVAC system now can increase the comfort and energy efficiency of your home, and might even qualify you for a tax credit.

With the passage of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, homeowners may be eligible for a tax credit if they purchase certain types of HVAC systems, water heating equipment, or make other energy-related improvements to their homes now through Dec. 31, 2010. More information about the tax credit is available at www.AmericanStandardAir.com and www.irs.gov.

How do you know what HVAC improvements are right for your home? American Standard Heating & Air Conditioning offers a quick overview of basic components to consider when purchasing a new system or planning an upgrade:

Outdoor units: air conditioner or heat pump                                                                          
An air conditioner offers cool, quiet comfort during the hottest days by extracting heat and moisture from indoors. A heat pump does double duty, acting as both an air conditioner and a furnace. But unlike a furnace, it doesn’t burn fuel to create heat — it uses electricity to keep your home warm in winter, cool in the summer and comfortable all year long. A Heritage Hybrid Comfort System combines two different energy sources and automatically operates in the most efficient and economical mode. American Standard Heating & Air Conditioning’s line of Allegiance air conditioners and Heritage heat pumps range in efficiency from 13 to 20 Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, or SEER, the measure of cooling efficiency.

Indoor units: furnace or air handler                                                                                                
A furnace works with an air conditioner to heat and evenly circulate air throughout your home. An air handler performs the same duties as a furnace in homes that use electricity instead of gas. It works with an air conditioner to circulate cool air in the summer. Or, when paired with a heat pump, it circulates cool air in the summer and warm air in the winter.

Air cleaner or filtration system
For even greater comfort, an air filtration system can be added to your furnace or air handler to filter out unwanted airborne particles. A whole-home air filtration system can remove the allergens from the air your family breathes, including dust, dander, pollen and bacteria.

Humidifier                                                                                                                                                  
A humidifier adds moisture to the air in winter and in hot, dry climates. It can be attached to your furnace and programmed to automatically turn off once humidity reaches a certain level.

Thermostat
A programmable thermostat automatically adjusts temperatures throughout the day, ensuring greater energy efficiency and enhanced indoor comfort.

Some — but not all — of American Standard Heating & Air Conditioning’s products qualify for the tax credit. A local dealer can help you decide what qualifying components are right for your home. For more information or to find a dealer, visit www.AmericanStandardAir.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

http://www.npiweb.com/sansone

Quality upgrades add value to a home. But it isn’t only big projects that make a difference. There are many small ways to improve your home’s exterior on any budget.

• If the exterior of your home is in need of painting, enhance the architecture of the home by using a different paint color from the home and trim. This will draw the eye to details like the windows, shutters or brackets.

• If your home is in need of a new front door, purchase a salvaged solid-wood door, which could cost you only half the price.

• Make sure your exterior is well-lit. Update light fixtures in poor condition.

• Porch planters or other decorative planters can add color and interest to your exterior.

• Tame overgrown brush and other plants that take away from your home’s presence.

• If you are considering repaving a walkway or other path, consider using salvaged bricks or other salvaged materials.

• If there are gaps under your porch or deck, fill the space with decorative lattice.

To find out more, visit This Old House.