Heat Wires & Gutterbrush – The Secret About Preventing Ice Dams That No One Is Telling You!

Ice dams are one of the most frustrating winter problems a homeowner can face, and if you live in New England and remember last winter, frustrating they were indeed! Ice dams can cause water to back up under shingles, damage ceilings and walls, and create expensive repairs. Most homeowners know that heat wires can help […]
Why Does My Washing Machine Smell Like Sewage?

A sewage smell coming from a washing machine is unpleasant, but it does not necessarily mean the machine needs to be replaced. In many cases, the smell comes from the drain system, a dirty washer, or a problem with the way the drain hose is installed. The good news is that most of these problems […]
Your Leaking Skylight

Skylights can bring natural light into a home and make a room feel larger and brighter. However, when a skylight starts leaking, it can create a serious problem. Water can damage the roof, insulation, ceilings, walls, and even the framing around the skylight. Understanding why skylights leak and how they are replaced can help prevent […]
Why It Is Important To STILL Clean Your Gutters If There Are No Trees Around Your Home!!

You have NO Trees Around Your Home. Literally ZERO. Then why is it still important to clean your gutters? When most homeowners think about cleaning their gutters, they immediately think about leaves and other debris from nearby trees. If there are no trees around the house, it can seem logical to assume that gutter cleaning […]
Old School Weatherstripping

One of my favorite types of weatherstripping is also one of the oldest. It is the traditional metal interlocking weatherstripping that was commonly used on older homes. If you have ever looked closely at an old wood entry door and noticed metal strips running around the edge of the door and the jamb, you may […]
Is It Okay for Your Wood Siding to Touch Your Roof Shingles?

Wood siding and roof shingles have to meet somewhere, but they do not necessarily have to be touching. In fact, leaving a little space between them can make a big difference in how well the siding holds up over time. Wood siding should not be installed so that it rests directly on, or touches, roof […]
What Is A Portico?

You have probably passed by one a thousand times without really noticing it – or knowing what it was called! It is a common architectural feature that can add character, protection, and a sense of importance to the entrance of a home or building. It is called a portico. A portico is a covered entrance […]
What Does It Mean When Your Copper Piping Starts To Turn Green?

It is not unusual for me to be at a client’s home and notice that some part of their copper piping is starting to turn green. What exactly does this mean? Copper pipes are strong and can last for many years, but they still react with their surroundings. That green color is usually a sign […]
Why Is Water Pouring OVER My Gutter System?

If water is pouring over your gutters, the problem is not always a clogged gutter. Many homeowners assume overflowing water means leaves or debris are blocking the system. Others immediately conclude that their gutters were installed incorrectly or that the gutters are simply too small. While those problems can certainly occur, they are far from […]
Is Your Kitty Litter Box Giving You The ‘Ick’?!?

Many cat owners love their furry friends, but nobody enjoys staring at a litter box every day. The smell can spread, the sight is unpleasant, and guests may wonder why it sits in plain view. Fortunately, a little creativity can make this necessary part of pet ownership almost disappear. With thoughtful planning, you can keep […]