How to Prevent Water/Rot Damage on your home...

Moisture control is the key to avoiding water and rot damage to your home. If you have had a leak even a small one be sure to correct any issues no matter how small they are that have been caused by the leak. Be aware of hidden water damage that could have taken place behind walls, in the floors, the attic, etc ...Delay in repairing these issues can be a costly mistake for your wallet and health. 

Gradual damage is when the damage starts small and visable and no action was taken in repairing it. This causes it to spread and allows mold growth. Mold can start to grow on a surface within 24-48 hours. 

Hidden Gradual damage is when you have a hidden leak from an internal water supply that has caused rot, mildew, and or deterioration. If you know of any leaks in your home, fix them without delay. It's wise to perform regular inspections around your home to check for leaks you may not have noticed. 

The delay in water damage cleanup can be a very costly mistake. It can spread and result in walls, sub floors, roofs, insulation, exterior of homes etc.. to have to be replaced which can really put a damper on your wallet.

Stay tuned for an article on mold coming up.  

Cost vs. Value ...

We have all heard the saying cheaper is not always better or You get what you pay for. Those are very true statements. Home ownership is one of the largest investments one will make. Why risk the quality of home improvements to save a few dollars by hiring the lowest bidder? There will always be someone out there that will give you a lower price for a service, but will they provide the quality you expect to receive? When shopping for a contractor be sure to ask questions, have a contract written as to what you are paying for and what will be included, ask for a client reference list then be sure to follow up with those clients. Ask them about their experience both good and bad. Ask the business how long have they been in business and serving your area. Ask for proof of credentials. It is also wise to get more than one estimate, research them all weighing out the pros and cons of each. Take your time in the decision making and put what is best in protecting your investment on top of the list.

I have heard far to many times "I can could do it cheaper myself" , well of course one could. When you hire a service provider you are paying for their skill and their time. There are many financial obligations when operating a business, one being in business the owner has a goal of making a profit. When a provider bids on a service contract they have to include the cost of the job, business overhead expenses, and of course their profit. If they don't rest assure they won't be in business long.

Bottom line when seeking a service what is more important the cost or the value? If it is value you are looking for in your home improvement needs, then please contact Jason's Home Improvements. We offer the highest in quality craftsmanship and a one year warranty on labor.

Home Maintenance Tips ...

Keep your home in tip top shape by performing routine inspections inside and outside your home! Repair any areas you find that are in need. Spending a few dollars now can save you tons of money later on down the road. Failure to maintain your home can lead to very costly repairs.

Interior:

• Inspect and change HVAC filters monthly (the cheap filters are actually best to use but need to be changed every month. I change mine on the first of every month, easy date to remember.)
• Inspect and clean Hood Range filters
• Inspect and clean dryer vent as needed. Appliance repair techs can usually do this for under 50.00 if you dont want to get dirty!
• Clean garbage disposal (tossing some lemons or vinegar icecubes in will do the deed, the icecubes will also sharpen the blades! Cant go wrong with a two for one!!)
• Inspect plumbing for any leaks (using a dry clean paper towel, turn water faucets on and inspect for leaks around the base. Check under sinks for wet areas and run paper towel along pipes. Run paper towel around the bottom of toilets to be sure there is no leak).Leaks need to be repaired at first notice to prevent water damage to your home. 
• Inspect grout in bathrooms and kitchens. Regrout as needed to protect the lifespan of your tiled areas. 
• Inspect and caulk where needed around sinks, tubs, showers etc .. (it is suggested to do this annually.)
• Inspect around windows, doors, attic vents, and plumbing outlets for any drafts and seal as needed. 
• A good deep cleaning of the interior is always great. Vacuum around vent covers, outlets and the nooks and cranny's througout the home that often get over looked. Don't forget the fridge coils! Vacuum attchments work great for this task too. 

Exterior:

• Inspect roof for loose/missing/popped up shingles and repair as needed.
• Inspect gutters and remove debris on a regular basis. Repair/replace any rotted parts of the gutter. 
• Inpect drainage around the home, be sure the water flows away and does not puddle agaisnt the foundation of the home. 
• Inpect crawlspace area under home. Repair/replace any vapor barrier that is missing or damaged. 
• Siding/Fascia/Soffit inspect for signs of rot and or peeling or chipped paint. Repair as soon as possible to prevent wood rot and costly repairs. 
• Brick inspect for broken pieces or holes in grout and repair or regrout as needed. (Cement caulk works great and easy to use)
• Inspect caulk around the exterior to be sure it is sealed properly. Recaulking is suggested every few years on older homes and every year on new homes as settling will occur. 
• Inspect paint on home. Peeling, cracking paint is a sign it is time to repaint. It is suggested to paint the exterior of home every five years or so. 
• Repair/replace damaged window screens.

When purchasing a home it is highly recommened to have a home inspector come and inspect the home. It costs about 300.00 to have this done by a licensed home inspector. Doing so will save you from unexpected repair expenses on a new to you home and will save you money in the long run. 

If you are in need of any assistance with your home maintenance repairs give us a call for a free estimate. 910-229-8239 or visit our website at www.jasonshomeimp.com 

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