Entries by Charles McGuckin

Understanding AFCI and GFCI

AFCI stands for Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter. It is an electrical safety device designed to detect and mitigate the risk of electrical fires caused by arching faults in wiring, cords, and electrical devices. What is the difference between AFCI and GFCI outlets? GFCIs are designed to protect against ground faults or ground leakage currents. They […]

Tips for Choosing a Home Inspector

Don’t Wait  Don’t wait until you have accepted an offer. You want to make sure you have enough time to find a reputable home inspector that is going to give a thorough unbiased inspection of your future investment. Referrals are nice, Your Own Inquiry is Better Referrals are a good start; however, you want do […]

Preventing Mold in Your Bathroom

Preventing mold in your bathroom is a lot easier than trying to get rid of it. Follow these 6 easy tips to help keep mold out of your bathroom. Use the Exhaust Fan The fan works by sucking the moisture out of the air and sending outside. The exhaust fan should be used during your […]

HOME INSPECTIONS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

IS A HOME INSPECTION AND AN APPRAISAL THE SAME THING? No, they are not. A home inspection is completed by a licensed home inspector and provides insight to issues in the home. An appraisal is typically done to determine the value of the home for a loan. DOES A HOME INSPECTOR NEED TO BE LICENSED […]

Wood Destroying Insects: What You Should Know

Wood destroying insects can cause significant structural damage if infestations go undetected or are left untreated. Some come causes of infestations are from earth to wood contact, foam insulation at the foundation in contact with the soil, improper drainage, improper grading around the home, insufficient ventilation, and moisture. Subterranean termites are the most common potentially […]

Is Your Chimney Leaking?

Common Causes of Chimney Leaks Damaged or missing chimney cap Damaged bricks or worn-out mortar Cracked chimney crown Deteriorated or missing chimney flashing Condensation build-up inside the chimney Signs Chimney is Leaking Water or condensation in firebox or the sound of dripping in the chimney White staining, also known as efflorescence on exterior masonry Water […]

Indoor Air Quality

Indoor air quality or IAQ refers to the quality of air within and around buildings and structures and how it relates to your health and well-being. Some causes of poor indoor air quality include: Excess moisture Central heating and cooling systems and humidification devices Radon Poor ventilation Some health issues caused by poor indoor air […]

10 DEFECTS THAT CAN BE FOUND IN A HOME INSPECTION

Negative Grade (Poor Ground Sloping) Poor grading and drainage around the home can cause water to pool around the home and moisture into the foundation. Proper grading is needed to ensure the water moves away from the foundation and the home stays dry. Structural Issues Horizontal or L-shape cracks in the exterior foundation, chimneys, outdoor […]

Why Condensation Builds Up on Windows in Summer

Because of the use of air conditioning during those hot summer months, windows especially the older and draftier ones, tend to condensate. The warm air meeting the cooler surface of the window causes differences in the temperature and humidity levels on the inside and outside of the glass, causing condensation to build up. Condensation can […]

20 Ways to Lower Your Energy Bill and Save Money

Replace light bulbs with LED bulbs Use energy-efficient appliances Insulate your home Replace shower head Shade your house Install programmable thermostat Wash clothes in in cold water Install energy efficient windows Turn off the lights Turn down the water heater temperature to 110-120 Replace or clean air filters Dry clothes on clothesline Fix leaky faucets […]