6 Tips to get your Home ready for Winter Weather

Anyone who lives in the St Louis Area, knows that the weather here is unpredictable.  It’s always a good idea to be prepared for the colder winter weather headed our way.

Here are a few tips to prepare your home for the cold:

1)     Make sure to have clean gutters – Falling leaves during the autumn can lead to clogged gutters, mold problems, standing water, and other potentially harmful water damage to your home and your homes foundation.  You may also want to hire a professional to inspect your gutters to make sure your gutters are in good working order so you don’t have any problems with your home later.

2)     Disconnect and drain all outdoor water hoses, drain any residual water and turn off any shut-off valves for your faucets.  The shut-off valve can be damaged if frozen.  Your water hoses can also be frozen if water is left in them causing them harm or ruining them entirely.

3)     Insulate attic and walls.  Air leakage can cause a larger heating bill in the winter and a large bill for summertime.  Insulation comes in many forms each of which has pros and cons.  Each type of insulation and where it is being installed have different general guidelines which are best left to professionals.

4)     Remove any tree branches that could be weighed down with ice and snow.  Tree branches that have accumulated snow or ice can fall either hurting your home or someone.  It’s best to have these taken care of before problems arise. 

5)     Repair any roof leaks.  Moisture from frozen water during the winter can cause many water damage issues to your home.  Mold, interior damage, structure damage are just a few issues that can affect your house.  The same is true for damaged chimneys which can lead to the same water issues with your home.

6)     Make sure your fireplace is ready.  Getting a yearly (or more) inspection and cleaning for your chimney will remove residual buildup which will give you more safety to use your fireplace.  Make sure your chimney is not damaged as well—a professional mason is best to check for cracks for this.  The mason can also check that the cap and damper are in good condition.  It is also a good idea to clear out any ashes from previous uses.

These are just a few steps to ensure you have a warm winter.  If you need a local mason in the St. Louis area, feel free to contact us.

5 Tips to Picking the right Gutter for Your Roof

Gutters are an important part of your roofing structure.  They help keep water away from your house, which can be quite destructive.  Here are 5 general tips in choosing the right gutter for your roof.

1)     Material Type.  Gutters come in many variations and are made of many materials.  Some of these include: copper, steel, zinc, and aluminum.  Aluminum is more popular with most consumers because it resists corrosion, comes in many colors and is generally cost effective.  When choosing what will be your homes defense against moisture, these are all important things to consider.

2)    Gutters that blend with your roof and structure.  Choose a gutter that matches your home structure.  Gutters come in a variety of styles, colors and materials; some of which can be painted if needed if you want the gutters to match with the home colors.  When considering the aesthetics of your new gutter system, you might also want to see if they are seamless or sectional.

 

3)      Gutters that provide “debris” protection built in.  Some gutters come with a built-in “gutter guard” which is meant to keep leaves, twigs etc. from clogging up your gutter system which can cause problems.  Some may help you keep debris out of your system so they can be clog free.

4)      Check the Warranty period.  Most manufactures offer some kind of warranty, based on your gutter system.   Chances are you won’t need it, but it’s good to know you have one if you do.

5)     Are your new gutters allowed in your area? Check with your city, county, or local homeowner’s association before installing your gutters to make sure the type you pick out is allowed.   Restrictions based on just about anything can cost you and can cause headaches for you.  If your new gutter system isn’t allowed, you may be forced to rip out your new system which can be expensive.

A gutter system can be functional, important and add to the curb-appeal of your home.  Rain and water damage can be a destructive force to your home.  Your gutter system can help protect your most valuable asset; your home.

For more information in the St. Louis area, please contact us at 314-255-8940.

7 Things to Consider Before Choosing Your Fire Pit

Fire Pits can be a great addition to any backyard.  Not only do they provide you and your guests with warmth, they can be a great selling point should you choose to sell your home.

There are a few things to consider before choosing which fire pit is best for you and your family.

1)      Temporary or Permanent?  If you are a renter, a temporary fire pit may be for you.  The ability to move temporary fire pits around may also be an advantage to you.  Typically, not as aesthetically pleasing than built in fire pits, these fire pits are also affordable, and come in many styles and sizes to keep you warm on a cool night.  Permanent Fire Pits, usually made of brick, are a great addition to any outdoor living space.  Not only will they spruce up your patio space, but they will also keep you and your guests warm; not to mention ward off any bugs that may be flying around. 

2)      Fire Pit or Oven, or both?  If you are into cooking, a brick oven may be for you.  Fire Pits add ambience to your backyard.  An Outdoor oven is practical if you like to cook and can also add practical outdoor living for those who spend a lot of time outside entertaining.

3)      What are your local rules regarding your new space?  Most homeowners already know they have restrictions based on where they live; usually the strictest policies come from the home owner’s association (HOA) which may have rules on what can be added.   If you live in a condo or close proximity to your neighbors, you may want to check with them before adding a feature to your outdoor living space.  A new fire pit may bring late night entertainment that could annoy some close neighbors.

4)      Safety.  Having a fire outside is a great feature; If something goes wrong with your fire, make sure you have a safe way of taking care of the situation.

5)      Size – Will this look good and fit on your patio?  Maybe you need a larger patio to accommodate your new feature.  A nice looking fire pit can be a great focal point for your patio and will likely be the gathering space in cooler weather.

6)      Will you use gas or wood?  Costs are a factor in choosing which fuel you use for your outdoor fireplace or oven.   

7)      Does your feature blend in with home and neighborhood?  You may want a very modern fire pit or oven, but the homes in your neighborhood are very traditional. 

Any outdoor feature you choose will be an asset to you and your family.  Years of enjoyment with your new outdoor feature and the possibility of your home becoming more valuable to you and others are just a bonus.