Pillar To Post Greater Olympia

Repair/ Remodeling Estimates

Brendan Marchant (Pillar to Post professional Home Inspection) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 11:02:03 -0500

During the process of buying or selling a home, homeowners often learn about recommended or required repairs and upgrades. Of course, the first thing most people want to know is, "How much will that cost"?

Pillar to Post is pleased to offer our Residential Construction and Remodeling Estimates cost guide, which provides estimated cost ranges to repair and/or replace all the major systems and components in a home. It also includes general guidelines for the life expectancies of those systems. This information can help your clients make informed decisions when they're considering home repairs or improvements, and is especially valued by homeowners before their property is listed.

Browse below for just a sampling of our list of estimated costs in a typical home.

1. Floors Hardwood

Floor Refinish $2-$5 / sq. ft
Carpet-clean $100 / room
Ceramic Tile $5-$10 / sq. ft

2. Kitchen

Renovation $7,500
kitchen Counter-laminate $40 / lin. ft
Kitchen counter-marble $75 / lin. ft

3. Security System

Alarm System $2,500
Alarm Monitoring $30 / month

4. Deck

Pressure Treatment $15-$25 /sq. ft
Custom Designed & Built $50-$75 / sq. ft.

5. Retrofit

Doorbell System $100-$120
Hardwired Smoke Detector $75-$125

These estimates reflect the average basic costs for supplies and installation of building materials in United States and Canada. Costs may vary depending on regions, upgrades, complexity, and disposal fees.

For complimentary copies of our Residential Construction and Remodeling Estimates cost guide, please visit http://www.pillartopost.com/home-repair-cost-upgrade-guide.aspx

Wood-Destroying Organisms and Your Home

Brendan Marchant (Pillar to Post professional Home Inspection) — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 12:12:48 -0500

Wood-destroying organisms (termites) cause North American homeowners over two billion dollars in damages each year. These destructive pests primarily feed on wood, but also damage paper, books, insulation, and even swimming pool liners and filtration systems. Wood destroying organisms are often referred to as the silent destroyer because they may be causing damage to your home without you knowing it. A trained inspector is usually required to identify the problem, and will be necessary if you do have an infestation. Read on to learn more about how to protect your home from these common pests.

* When should I suspect I have a problem? Homeowners rarely see termites;

they are sneaky insects that hide themselves deep in wood and soil. Finding signs of termite activity in your yard is pretty common, but if you see winged termites indoors it almost always indicates an infestation warranting treatment.

* What will a professional look for to determine the extent of the problem?

Inspection and treatment require special skills and technology. A professional pest controller can help. Professionals will look for telltale “mud tubes” or shelter tubes, which are solid evidence of termite activity. They will also look for thin, "bubbled" or distorted areas of paint on wooden surfaces, especially if these feel cool to the touch. Finally, professional inspectors will check any wooden building parts (especially if they are important support structures) that may be beginning to "sag" unexpectedly.

* What are my treatment options?

Treatment options vary considerably with the species of termite, extent, and degree of infestation. Chemical treatment, in-ground baiting systems, and fumigation are the most common treatment types. Federal statues strictly regulate pesticide use and guarantee the safety of chemicals for termite control when used by qualified professionals. Regardless of which method or product is selected, it is important to have an experienced technician treat the problem.

Be careful where you crawl!!!

Brendan Marchant (Pillar to Post professional Home Inspection) — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 23:20:14 -0600

This is a recient find in a crawlspace. Luckly I entered from the opposite end and didnt have to swim out.

If you think this looks like a dug well. It sure is!!

Next time you are in a crawlspace please be careful where you go.

Blowing Hot Air

Brendan Marchant (Pillar to Post professional Home Inspection) — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 16:28:05 -0600

Is your house releasing all of it's "Hot air"?

One of the most common conditions found in a home inspection is a bathroom vent not venting to the outside. When it's first discovered repair time and costs can generally be considered very minor, nothing more than some time and duct tape. If not addressed quickly the future damages can be quite expensive to repair sometimes even requiring a new roof.

Dont let the small things turn into big ones.

Detecting and addressing Radon

Brendan Marchant (Pillar to Post professional Home Inspection) — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 12:54:25 -0600

Detecting and Addressing Radon Contamination in the Home Many homeowners are increasingly concerned about the possible presence of radon in their homes – and with good reason. You can’t see, smell, or taste radon, but it is the leading cause of lung cancer deaths among nonsmokers in North America, and it could be present at a dangerous level in your home. The good news is that if radon is detected, steps can be taken to remedy the problem. January has been designated National Radon Action Month; learn the facts and take action.

WHAT IS THE SOURCE OF RADON?

Radon is naturally occurring odorless, colorless, radioactive gas that is formed by the ongoing decay of uranium in soil, rocks, sediments, and even well or ground water. While radon that escapes into the atmosphere is not harmful, dangerously high concentrations can build up indoors, exposing residents to possible health risks.

HOW DOES RADON ENTER THE HOME?

Radon gas can migrate into the home in several ways. Openings or cracks in basement walls or floors are common avenues. Sumps, basement drains, and spaces between gas or water fittings can also allow radon into the structure.

HOW CAN MY CLIENTS FIND OUT ABOUT RADON IN A HOME THEY ARE CONSIDERING FOR PURCHASE?

A Pillar To Post Home Inspector can conduct a Radon test as either part of the home inspection process or on its own. An inspector will set up the testing equipment and report on the results once the proper measurement procedure is complete. If an elevated level of radon is detected, steps can be taken to lessen the concentration inside the home.

REDUCING THE LEVELS OF RADON IN THE HOME

Radon mitigation methods can include sealing likely entry points, improving ventilation, and a process called soil depressurization, which vents air from the house back into the surrounding soil, reducing the level of radon that can enter the home. Professional mitigation services can provide recommendations for a home’s specific conditions.

Fall Tips

Brendan Marchant (Pillar to Post professional Home Inspection) — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 16:30:26 -0500

HELPFUL HINTS:

These easy, affordable touches will cozy up your home for the cooler days and longer nights ahead.

Whisk away whisper light sheers, and rehang your heavier drapes and curtains for a snug, warm feeling.

Sprinkle in low- or no-cost accents, like a wooden bowl filled with juicy pears, ripe apples or other seasonal produce, or a clear glass bowl holding a single leaf.

Light candles infused with spicy-sweet ginger, pumpkin, cinnamon-apple and brown sugar.

They’ll “hug” your home with the feel-good scents of the season! Add seasonal blooms, such as sunflowers, asters and mums to your tables, shelves and countertops.

Pile on pillows, and toss on throws in fiery colors such as golden yellow, deep crimson and burnished orange – shades that echo the hues of lush fall foliage!

Eco-Friendly Remodeling

Brendan Marchant (Pillar to Post professional Home Inspection) — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 11:59:03 -0500

Whether you are making an addition to your home or remodeling your bathroom cabinets, eco-friendly choices can help you conserve resources and reduce your impact on the environment. As the demand for green building materials grows, major manufactures are expanding their affordable sustainable options, so the green choice may also be the less expensive one. Here are some green guidelines to consider during your next remodeling project.

* Consider renewable sources for cabinetry. Choose wood products certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), which will be harvested from sustainably managed forests. Spruce, eucalyptus or reclaimed wood are durable, sustainable options from sources that rapidly replenish.

* Use eco-friendly paint. Most paints release toxic fumes called VOCs (volatile organic compounds) that can be inhaled even after the paint is dry. They are potentially carcinogenic and contribute to indoor air pollution. But now low- or no-VOC paint is readily available for use. Most paints rely on petroleum based solvents, but eco-friendly paints are water based and are offered in all forms including primer, finish, sealer, wax and stain.

* Opt for durable sustainable materials when replacing your floors. Linoleum is made from all natural ingredients (linseed oil) and has a life span of thirty to forty years. It resists damage and is easy to clean. Other popular choices include concrete, which can be decoratively embellished, and bamboo and cork flooring, which are both FCS endorsed. Recycled-content carpet not only produces fewer emissions during manufacturing and less off-gassing in the home, it can also be recycled when its useful life is up.

* When replacing appliances, select models that exhibit the Energy Star label. This means the item meets or exceeds international guidelines for energy efficiency. The more efficient the appliance, the more energy and cost savings you will have over the long run. You may get a rebate on your purchase as well; check with your utility company.

* The less material in our landfills the better, so consider what to do with your remodeling waste. Can any of the materials be reused in another project? Can items be donated or sold? Consider donating your deconstructed material to industrial recyclers so it can be reused in the product stream.

Major Foundation types and moisture intrusion.

Brendan Marchant (Pillar to Post professional Home Inspection) — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 10:26:20 -0500

Stone Foundations

Stone foundations were standard fare before World War I. Stone foundations will only stay dry if the soil surrounding the foundation is dry-- hence it is unreasonable to expect them to be 100% dry. This being said, stone foundations are very vulnerable to leakage problems. If the construction was shoddy, there may remain gaps between the stones where the mortar was filled, which become an entry point for leaking water. If it is a mortared stone wall, then a leakage crack can be identified as a single thin crack localized around a particular region of the wall, especially where the stones join together. Trees with substantial underground roots may also cause mechanical weathering of stone foundations. Stone foundations have also been known to crumble under vibrations which may be caused due to vehicles running aboveground.

Brick Foundation

Brick was predominately used between 1910 and 1935 in residential construction. It was used in solid masonry walls as well as foundations. Brick foundations are very common in some areas and unheard of in others. In some cases you may see them every day or not at all. Brick foundations are better than you may think at keeping water out. Bricks swell when they get wet and this often has the positive result of sealing off any leaks. A constant migration of moisture through the brick is to be expected; it won’t be wet but it will be damp. You will note that if you leave a cardboard box next to the foundation wall, it will get wet because of the constant moisture migration.

Concrete Foundations

While we usually associate concrete with a more modern foundation system, concrete has been used for a long time. Modern concrete foundations are about the most reliable system. They are strong and fairly resistant to moisture. Foundation cracks are common but are generally not a structural concern. Old concrete foundations are not quite as robust as modern concrete. Often river sand and large chunks of gravel and stone were used as aggregate. This concrete does not hold together quite as well as modern concrete. In addition, it has proved to be less than ideal when exposed to water infiltration over a long period of time. For example, if water has been seeping through a section of foundation for many years (such as from bad grading on one side of the home), the concrete deteriorates in this area.

Damp basement education part 1

Brendan Marchant (Pillar to Post professional Home Inspection) — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 11:41:08 -0500

Knowing what to expect from a basement is half the battle. So what is the difference between a wet basement and a typical basement? The answer lies in understanding that no basement is 100% dry. Historically the basement was not expected to be a living or dry storage area. Today however, many people expect much more from the basement space – anywhere from basement apartments to recreation rooms to home offices. Most basements, by the sheer nature of the fact that they are built into the ground, present the distinct possibility that water can intrude. (i.e. the walls of the basement are also the foundation of the house). Water in the soil can put constant pressure on basement walls. Plus, water follows the path of least resistance into a home and over time can find its way into a basement. Ultimately this turns what was once a dry basement into a potentially problematic area. In order to prevent wet basements, it is important to understand where the water is coming from. There are two common sources of water that seeps into basements:

• Surface water running down foundation walls

• Groundwater in water-saturated soils being pushed into the basement by hydrostatic pressure

Foundations New and Old Foundations have evolved over time and different materials have been employed. You may find that in your area there is a predominant foundation type.

Stone foundation 1800’s to 1920 Brick foundation late 1800’s to 1930’s

Concrete foundation early 1900’s to now

Concrete block foundation 1940 to now

www.pillartopost.com/greaterOlympia

One Year Warranty Inspections

Brendan Marchant (Pillar to Post professional Home Inspection) — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 12:26:55 -0500

Sizing up Your Structure: You’ve been in your new home now for all four of the seasons; you may have learned about a leak in the basement during the winter or a sticky window during the spring, but what other issues might you have missed? New homes are often plagued with structural defects and flaws in construction – both minor and major – that slowly come to light during the first year of occupancy. A professional inspection of your new home while it is still under warranty can help you find and address many of these issues at a minimal cost to you. At Pillar To Post, we recommend you have an inspection done after eleven months to ensure you have enough time to bring any flaws or defects to your builder’s attention before your warranty expires. A Pillar To Post new home warranty inspection will cover up to 1,600 points on a typical home, and include a thorough investigation of its structural and material adequacy. Here are a few examples of the kinds of issues that a new home warranty inspection will address:

* Has the builder correctly installed attic framing components and proper insulation? If an attic has not been built with proper ventilation, there is potential for moisture buildup and rot. Proper air flow in your attic reduces humidity and heat, which are elements that can compromise the energy efficiency of your home and the life expectancy of your roof.

* Is the water heater installed per the manufacturer’s warranty requirements? Are there missing furnace vent caps? This could potentially allow water to enter the heat exchanger and cause premature rust and failure. * Are doors sagging and windows no longer easy to open or to lock? An out-of-square window can also be an indication of a greater structural problem.

* Are any of the roof tiles broken or cracked? It’s typical to discover problems in the flashing details, where the chimney meets the roof, or where the roof changes directions.

* Has water penetrated into the basement through foundation walls? If the ground of the backyard is graded so that it slopes toward the house, it is very likely that water is collecting and may find its way into your home.

* Are there any areas of the floor that are “soft”? Are any of the floor joists cut improperly? These could be indications of damaged or defective framing and may compromise the structural integrity of the floor.

Give Junk a Heave-Ho!

Brendan Marchant (Pillar to Post professional Home Inspection) — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 10:20:30 -0500

Is your garage so cluttered that only a toy car will fit inside? If you are wondering where all that stuff is going to go, maybe it’s time to spend part of the weekend creating some order in all that chaos. Get your parking space back with these easy tips!

1.Give junk a heave-ho! “Before anything else, toss stuff that’s beyond repair or hopelessly outdated,” says the president of the National Association of Professional Organizers. Be sure to have a ‘donate’ pile and a ‘throw out’ pile. Throw away broken toys, almost empty cans of paint, and rusty garden tools. Donate sports equipment your kids have outgrown or that extra lawn edger.

2.Zone in! Divide your garage into zones: one for lawn and garden, one for sports equipment, one for seasonal items. Then only store items in the right zone.

3.Find the secret storage space! Install shelves on the often-over-looked space on the wall above where the garage doors roll up.

4.Hook it up! Place hooks on the wall to hold everything from ladders to folding chairs to sleds. TIP: Hang heavier items near the floor so they don’t hurt someone if they fall.

5.Contain it! Keep stored items neat with clearly labeled plastic containers - to prevent needless rummaging around.

6.Create a mini parking lot! Designate “parking spots” with colored tape on the garage floor for kids’ bikes and wagons.

Protect what’s precious! Most garages experience extreme temperature fluctuations, so store heirlooms or family keepsakes elsewhere.

Proudly Serving Thurston County, Lewis County, Mason County, Grays Harbor County and the following communities: Aberdeen, Allyn, Amanda Park, Belfair, Bucoda, Centralia, Chehalis, Cinebar, Copalis Beach, Copalis Crossing, Cosmopolis, Curtis, Doty, East Olympia, Elma, Ethel, Galvin, Glenoma, Grapeview, Grayland, Hoodsport, Hoquiam, Humptulips, Lacey, Lilliwaup, Littlerock, Malone, McCleary, Mineral, Moclips, Montesano, Morton, Mossyrock, Napavine, Neilton, Oakville, Ocean Shores, Olympia, Onalaska, Pacific Beach, Packwood, Pe Ell, Quinault, Rainier, Randle, Rochester, Salkum, Satsop, Shelton, Silver Creek, Taholah, Tahuya, Tenino, Toledo, Tumwater, Union, Vader, Westport, Winlock, Yelm.

Easy ways to Green your home

Brendan Marchant (Pillar to Post professional Home Inspection) — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 11:27:59 -0500

Summer is a great time work on projects around the home that reduce your environmental impact. Even if you are not making big changes such as replacing old leaky windows or installing ceiling fans, there are still small things that can be done around the house to minimize energy consumption and reduce your carbon footprint. Read on to learn more about how to make simple, sustainable adjustments to your home.

* Plug household appliances such as computers, printers, televisions and microwaves into a power strip that can be turned off at night. Even when these items are not in use their "standby" consumption can be equivalent to that of a 75 or 100 watt light bulb running continuously.

* Use the dishwasher. Newer dishwashers typically use only 4 or 5 gallons of water, while washing a sink full of dishes by hand can require up to 15 gallons of water. Not only will you avoid wasting water, you’ll also save the energy your water heater would have used on those additional gallons.

* Adjust your thermostat. A difference of just two degrees you could reduce your household’s carbon dioxide emission by 2,000 pounds in addition to providing significant savings on your utilities bill. In the summer, keep your thermostat at 78 ° F/ 25 °C or higher.

* Keeping household appliances clean and up to date can significantly curb your household’s energy consumption. Schedule your heating and cooling system for a checkup every 2 years. Be sure to clean the filter or coils monthly on your air conditioner and refrigerator to ensure they are working efficiently.

* Prevent leaks. Insulating your water heater and weather-stripping or caulking around windows and doors in your house could save up to 420 lbs of carbon dioxide emissions a month.

* Switch to Compact Fluorescent Light (CFL) bulbs. CFLs use significantly less energy and can last up to ten times longer then standard incandescent bulbs. Replace five of the most-used lights in the house with CFLs and enjoy reductions in heat production, energy use, and electricity bills!

Prepair your home for a great LATE Summer Vacation

Brendan Marchant (Pillar to Post professional Home Inspection) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 12:04:30 -0500

An empty home is the ideal target for break-ins and burglaries, especially during the summer months. Vacation should be a time to relax and unwind, but the thought of leaving your home and valuables unattended can cause stress and anxiety. Take the time to secure your home before you leave so your mind can be at ease while you are gone. Below is a list of some of the most important things you can do help make sure that when you return you will find everything just as you left it.

• Inform a trusted neighbor that you are leaving town. For short trips request that they pick up and store your mail and paper deliveries.

• For longer vacations, call your newspaper service and have your paper delivery placed on hold. Make sure to stop by the post office and request that your home mail delivery is stopped until you return. • Make arrangements for someone to cut the grass, and to keep bushes and shrubs maintained especially around the front of the house.

• Inform your alarm company that you are going on vacation.

• Turn the volume down on your phone so passerby will not be alerted to unanswered calls. Avoid leaving messages on your answering machine that could alert callers to your vacation status, and turn off the volume.

• Automatic timers for your light fixtures are an inexpensive purchase that should be set to your usual evening schedule. Televisions and radios can be put on timers to provide noise. • Leave a car in the driveway if possible, or ask your neighbor to park there occasionally.

• Check the locks on all doors, windows, and fences. If you have a garage, lock it, if there is an automatic opener, unplug it.

• Leave the blinds and curtains open as if you were home.

• The day you leave for vacation try to make your departure as unobvious as possible. For road trips load your car up in the garage with the garage door closed. For airplane travel arrange for early morning or night time flights when your departure from your home will not alert witnesses that your house will be unoccupied.

• Prepare for the worst by taking an inventory of your most valuable possessions. Pack jewelry and smaller objects into a safety deposit box.

Living With My Home

Brendan Marchant (Pillar to Post professional Home Inspection) — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 10:28:48 -0500

How should you budget for new kitchen cabinets or to replace that old garage door? Want to research energy-efficient replacement windows? Need to unclog a toilet, but don’t have a plunger? Now there’s one place where you can find out all this and more!

Pillar To Post is pleased to sponsor Living With My Home, a new website devoted to the practical aspects of homeownership. Visit www.livingwithmyhome.com to access loads of valuable information about your home, including:

* Know Your Home 101 Learn here about the basics of your home’s exterior components, interior items such as lighting and flooring, safety information, and how your home’s electrical, heating, and cooling systems work. * Do It Yourself Research dozens of topics you might want to tackle yourself, from how to have a green and healthy home, to plumbing. You’ll also find good ideas on how to make your yard and garden the perfect place for you and your family.

* Repair and Remodel Estimates This useful tool provides cost ranges to upgrade or replace major systems and components in a typical home. It also contains general guidelines for the life expectancies of various items. There’s even a downloadable version for easy reference.

* Household Safety Keep your home and family safe. Learn how to choose and install a lockset, use a fire extinguisher, and about steps you can take to prevent common household accidents. As North America’s leading home inspection company, providing information to help you live better in your home is what we do best.

Healthy and Safe Spring Cleaning

Brendan Marchant (Pillar to Post professional Home Inspection) — Wed, 07 May 2008 10:00:14 -0500

HEALTHY AND SAFE SPRING CLEANING

Now is the perfect time to tackle spring cleaning projects around the house. Here are some reminders to help make this year’s spring cleaning safe, healthy, and easy:

>Choose non- or low-toxic cleaning products whenever possible.

>Alternatively, household staples such as vinegar, lemon juice and baking soda can make effective, inexpensive cleaning solutions.

>Exercise caution when using ladders or stepstools, making sure they are stable and in good repair. Be sure to wear non-slip footwear around wet floors.

Staging Tips

Brendan Marchant (Pillar to Post professional Home Inspection) — Tue, 06 May 2008 12:06:28 -0500

STAGING YOUR HOME FOR SALE

Selling your home? Beyond the basics of completing needed repairs and addressing any issues revealed in your pre-listing home inspection, it’s also important to consider the effect your home’s appearance will have on prospective buyers. “Staging” a home should be thought of as creating an appealing but neutral space that will allow buyers to see the potential of your home. Naturally, it’s difficult to look at your own home objectively; it’s yours, after all. So consider enlisting a friend to help you evaluate your space, or you may wish to hire a professional home stager to make your home the star of the show.

Here are some tricks to consider:

Staging is more about subtraction than addition. A room stuffed full of furniture will looked small, crowded, and difficult to move around in. Ideally, only the basic furniture should remain in order to highlight the size of each room.
Get rid of clutter! Pack up your everyday items on table and dresser surfaces, knickknacks, magazines, electronics, etc. You want buyers to focus on your home, not on your “stuff”.
Remove personal items from view. While of course you love displaying your family’s photos and cherished mementos, they are a distraction for potential buyers. A buyer wants to be able to see themselves in the home and not feel as though they’re in someone else’s space.
Take everything off the kitchen counters and display a few cookbooks and a beautiful glass bowl of lemons instead. A bouquet of flowers – real or silk – on the dining table is a nice touch.
In bathrooms, get all of the clutter off the countertops and sink area. A few fluffy towels and attractive soaps can provide that “spa” feeling with minimal cost.
Be sure walls and flooring are clean and maintained. Paint any rooms where the walls are in bad shape as well as any that have strong, “polarizing” colors. A potential buyer might find your red dining room and the purple in your teen’s bedroom a real turnoff.
Have the exterior painted if its condition warrants improvement. As with interior paint, neutral colors work best.
A few large potted houseplants can soften a room and make it feel friendly and fresh.
Don’t forget the curb appeal of landscaping. Trim any overgrown bushes that may be blocking windows or walkways and remove any weeds. A few dollars’ worth of bright flowering plants can be charming when planted by a walkway, doorway, and mailbox.

Pillar To Post SE King County Washington Serves, Issaquah, Renton, Bellevue, Covington, Enumclaw, Maple Valley, Black Diamond, and Surrounding areas

Visit us at www.pillartopost.com/sekingcounty

Weeding without Gloves......

Brendan Marchant (Pillar to Post professional Home Inspection) — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 21:34:01 -0500

What a strange way to start a blog.....Weeding without Gloves.

This is my very brief analogy of how important a home inspection is to the purchase and sale of a home. While the purchase inspection has now become accepted as common practice, why hasn't the Pre-Listing inspection become even more? Are we afraid of what will be found? Is the inspection cost to high? Is the seller afraid that more money will need to be pumped into the home just to sell? Or is it a combination of all of the above plus more?

It brings me back to weeding without gloves... Sure the home will eventually sale, no house stays on the market forever (I am sure there are exceptions to every rule). Just like you can weed a garden without having any hand protection, but why go through all of the pain of having offers made and then fall apart because the shower door doesn't shut smoothly? or the roof needs a few shingles replaced or possibly a 5 yr cert. I know I am such a biased opinion but to me it doesn't make sense not to have one. The initial cost is low for the amount of information gained. The seller takes the driver seat in the inspection instead of being a passenger just along for the ride, not knowing where to go or what is going on. Now the seller decides what to fix, how to get it done, and what not to do. They have all of the control!! "It's cheaper to fix than to negotiate price down, it's been suggested that for every $1 in identifiable repairs the buyer looks for twice that in price reduction.", Dan Stewart, President Pillar To Post Professional Home Inspection.

Why work harder than we need to? Why worry about having those thorny weeds sneak up on us, when we can just wear gloves?

Your thoughts.

Pillar to Post SE King County Washington Serves, Issaquah, Renton, Covington, Bellevue,Enumclaw, Black Diamond, and surrounding areas.

Visit Us at www.pillartopost.com/sekingcounty

Knob and Tube Wiring Quick Facts

Brendan Marchant (Pillar to Post professional Home Inspection) — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 11:11:52 -0500

In areas with older homes we all have seen or are going to see Knob and tube wiring. In my post today I wanted to post some "Quick Facts" about old K&T (knob and tube).

K&T Limitations:

Usually Restricted to a Maximum of 60 amp service
Not a grounded system making it more hazardous than modern wiring
Two-Prong Receptacles, Restrict the use of some Kitchen Appliances
The wire is generally old, and its insulation may no longer be intact

While it is true that use in Living areas (Bedrooms, Living rooms, etc) pose very little risk, The true risk comes around water. With an ungrounded wiring system we have a much greater chance of risk and possible harm

Safety Tips:

Never replace blown fuses with larger amp fuses
Don't cut the Grounding (third or bottom) plug to fit in a non grounded two-hole receptacle
Don't use outlet plugs to connect several appliances,lamps, etc to one receptacle

K&T on it's own is a product that worked well for its time, but as with everything its time has come and gone.

As our uses of electricity have changed as well as our knowledge of safe electric practices have increased, it is a good idea to have any home with active or live knob and tube evaluated by a licensed electrician.

Visit Us at www.pillartopost.com/sekingcounty

Contolling Allergens in the home

Brendan Marchant (Pillar to Post professional Home Inspection) — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 10:34:00 -0500

CONTROLLING ALLERGENS IN THE HOME

For many people, household allergens can cause a variety of symptoms, including sneezing, watery eyes, coughing, and shortness of breath, and may be a contributing cause of asthma, especially in children. However, it is possible to minimize the effects of such allergens by taking steps to control their presence and dispersal in the home.

The most common household allergens include dust mites, mold, mildew, pollen, and pet dander (dried flakes of skin shed by pets, particularly cats and dogs). Effective control relies on a combination of measures that, when used properly, will reduce the levels of allergens

Increase ventilation to the home. Opening windows whenever possible promotes good air exchange and will reduce the concentration of airborne allergens, especially pet dander.
Wash bedding and stuffed toys once a week in hot water to control dust mites and cat allergens in particular.
Keep pets clean and well groomed to control dander.
Use mite-resistant mattress covers and pillow covers and wash these frequently.
Dust and vacuum regularly and use micro-filtration or HEPA filter vacuum bags. Wearing a dust mask while dusting and vacuuming is also a good idea.
Consider removing wall-to-wall carpeting and use easily-cleaned area rugs instead, particularly in bedrooms.
Make sure bathrooms, especially those with showers, are well ventilated. Open the window and use exhaust fans that vent to the outdoors to prevent a buildup of moisture, which can encourage growth of mold and mildew.
If possible, reduce indoor humidity to 50% or less by using room dehumidifiers or the dehumidifier feature available with many central air conditioning systems.
Clean or replace furnace and central air conditioner filters on a regular basis. Make sure that air conditioner drain pans are clean and allow the water to drain properly.

Pillar To Post South East King County Serves, Issaquah, Renton, Bellevue, Covington, Enumclaw, Maple Valley, Factoria, New Castle, and Surrounding areas.

Visit us at www.pillartopost.com/sekingcounty

Don't Throw Money out the window!!

Brendan Marchant (Pillar to Post professional Home Inspection) — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 10:24:51 -0500

DON’T THROW MONEY OUT THE WINDOW

With heating and cooling costs continuing to rise, it makes sense to look at one of the leading causes of energy inefficiency in the home: windows. Installing energy-efficient windows can mean increased comfort as well as savings on utility bills in any climate.

The transmission of air and light is generally the most important function of windows. However, this can mean heat loss in the winter, overheating in the summer, and higher energy bills. A typical home may lose up to 30% of its heat or cooling through windows. Properly installed, energy-efficient windows can go a long way toward improving this situation.

There are many factors that affect a window’s energy efficiency. Whether they are single- or double-paned, gas filled, Low-Emittance (Low-E) coated, and even the material of the window frame all contribute to a window’s performance. Online resources such as www.efficientwindows.org provide detailed information on these specifications and how to select windows appropriate for various climates. An experienced window contractor can also be a good source of information and recommendations.

Homeowners should check with their local utility to find out about possible rebates and other incentives for the purchase of new, energy-efficient windows.

Of course, replacing windows is not always a viable option. There are steps homeowners can take to improve their energy savings without replacing windows. Making sure windows are properly caulked, keeping weather stripping in good repair, and using storm windows will help. Window coverings are another good way to reduce heat loss in winter and avoid overheating in summer.

Improving energy efficiency throughout the home means cost savings to the homeowner. Energy-efficient windows area significant step toward that goal.

Pillar To Post South East King County Washington serves, Issaquah, Renton, Maple Valley, Covington, Enumclaw, Bellevue, Black Diamond, Factoria, New Castle, and surrounding areas.

Visit us at www.pillartopost.com/sekingcounty

The House-Friendly Yard

Brendan Marchant (Pillar to Post professional Home Inspection) — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 10:28:42 -0500

THE HOUSE-FRIENDLY YARD AND GARDEN

During the spring and summer months, many homeowners get their garden and yard work into full swing. This month, Pillar To Post takes a look at several steps that homeowners can take to make their outdoor spaces and their home live compatibly.

KEEP WATER AWAY FROM THE HOUSE

Be sure that the ground slopes away from the house all the way around the perimeter. This ensures that any moisture from rain, snowmelt, and sprinkler systems will be directed away from the foundation.

The base of shrubs and other plantings should be kept at least 2’ away from the foundation to avoid potential problems with roots and drainage. In addition, window wells should be kept free of debris and lined with gravel to help water drain out of the well and into the ground.

Do not leave sprinklers on for too long. Excessive water will not do plants and lawns any good, and may cause problems if there are drainage issues in certain areas.

THE RIGHT PLANT IN THE RIGHT PLACE

When a tree is growing very close to the structure, there can be potentially serious problems if the tree grows too tall or too wide for the space. Damage to eaves and roofs can be caused by overgrowth, and there is even a danger of branches or an entire tree falling onto the home. Existing trees should be professionally pruned to lessen the potential for hazard. When planting new trees, homeowners should research potential “candidates” to find how large the tree will eventually grow and what the root pattern spread will be, then make decisions accordingly.

Homeowners should also consider grouping plants that have similar water requirements to avoid over-watering plants that don’t need as much. Not only will plants do better, but water bills will be lower over time as well.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT PLANTS FOR MAINTENANCE EASE

Some plants end up requiring more maintenance than a homeowner expects. When selecting new planting material, homeowners should seek advice from qualified personnel at a local nursery who will know what plants will do well in their area, as well as their growth habits and maintenance requirements.

Lawns should not be mowed too short or too frequently. Allowing the blades of grass to shade one another helps with water retention and allows grass to grow in more fully. Many newer turf grasses require less mowing than older varieties, and should be considered for new lawn installations. Homeowners can find out more at their local agricultural or extension office.

These are just some of the ways homeowners can increase the enjoyment of their outdoor spaces while ensuring that home and yard are in good shape.

Pillar To Post South East King County Serves, Issaquah, Renton, Maple Valley, Enumclaw, Covington,Factoria,New Castle, Bellevue,and surrounding areas

Visit Us at www.pillartopost.com/sekingcounty

Sick House Syndrome

Brendan Marchant (Pillar to Post professional Home Inspection) — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 10:23:13 -0500

WHAT CAUSES SICK HOUSE SYNDROME?

Sick House Syndrome occurs when a house can’t “breathe” to rid itself of indoor pollutants, resulting in poor indoor air quality – a “sick house.” Inadequate ventilation allows pollutants to build up, causing potential health risks to the home’s occupants. Young children, the elderly, and some chronically ill persons are most susceptible to the effects of Sick House Syndrome.

Common sources of indoor pollution include tobacco smoke, certain carpeting materials, furnaces, fireplaces, candles, pressed wood cabinets and furniture, and household cleaning products. Moisture build-up, although not a pollutant itself, can also be harmful in a house as it can cause mold growth inside walls, crawlspaces, and other areas.

HOW CAN INDOOR POLLUTION BE REDUCED?

Source control is usually the most effective way to improve indoor air quality. In some cases, eliminating the specific sources of indoor pollution – for example, removing carpets, and repairing or maintaining furnaces – may be all that is necessary.

For offending substances such as tobacco smoke, cleaning products, and moisture buildup, improving ventilation is a key means of decreasing indoor pollution. Many newer homes are so well insulated and sealed that only a very limited amount of fresh air can get in. Effective ventilation requires the home to have a complete air change every three hours. In this situation, using attic or window fans and opening windows when weather permits are easy and inexpensive ways to increase ventilation.

More hazardous materials such as asbestos and lead do not normally cause problems if they are undisturbed, but these and other dangerous substances should be analyzed by a qualified professional to determine if encapsulation, abatement, or removal is warranted.

Pillar To Post South East King County Serves, Issaquah, Renton, Maple Valley, Covington,Bellevue,New Castle, Factoria, Enumclaw, and surrounding areas

Visit Us at www.Pillartopost.com/sekingcounty

Choosing A Handyman

Brendan Marchant (Pillar to Post professional Home Inspection) — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 09:23:34 -0500

HELP FOR HOMEOWNERS: CHOOSING A HANDYMAN*

Whether it's a big project such as a bathroom remodel, something small like putting up shelves, or repairs and routine maintenance, many homeowners turn to handymen to get the job done. It used to be that everyone knew "a guy down the street" who could do everything, but these days finding a qualified, professional , and reliable handyman can be a real challenge. Here are some tips for homeowners to ensure that they have the right person for the job:

MAKE SURE THEY ARE QUALIFIED FOR THE WORK

Certain projects require specific skills that all handymen may not have. Make sure that they have the qualifications and experience to do the job. In addition, many states and provinces require persons performing certain work to be licensed; electrical and plumbing often fall into this category.

ASK FOR REFERENCES

Request at least two local references from previous customers. The handyman should be willing to do this without hesitation. Then, contact those references! Ask about the quality of the work, timeliness, professionalism, and how the handyman handled any changes that may have occurred during the course of the project. Also ask how satisfied they were with the work overall.

CHECK ON INSURANCE COVERAGE

Liability insurance is always a good idea. If the handyman or another worker is injured while working on your property, you may be held liable for medical costs. Ask for evidence of coverage before agreeing to any work. Uninsured handymen often charge less for their services because they lack the overhead expense of insurance, but using one could cost you in the long run.

GET WRITTEN ESTIMATES AND A CONTRACT

Ideally, you should ask three handymen for written estimates for the work you have in mind. Be sure that each estimate contains enough detail so that you can make a comparison between them. For example, are the specified materials of the same quality? Does the cost include cleanup and hauling away any debris or old/broken items? Read all contracts carefully and be sure to ask about anything that you are unsure of.

DETERMINE THE PAYMENT SCHEDULE BEFORE YOU SIGN

Beware if you are asked to pay for the entire job up front - this is not an accepted business practice and could leave you open to fraud. Handymen will often ask for 50% when the contract is signed, which will allow them to purchase materials for the job and assure them that you are committed. Be sure to request receipts for all payments.

Pillar To Post SE King County Serves, Issaquah, Maple Valley, Renton, Bellevue, Covington, Enumclaw, and surrounding areas

Visit us at www.pillartopost.com/sekingcounty

Carbon Monoxide: Avoidance and Prevention

Brendan Marchant (Pillar to Post professional Home Inspection) — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 11:07:59 -0500

CARBON MONOXIDE: AVOIDANCE AND PREVENTION

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas produced by the combustion of fuels such as natural gas, oil, and propane in devices such as furnaces, water heaters, and stoves. These items are normally designed to vent the CO to the outside, but harmful interior levels of CO can result from incomplete combustion of fuel, improper installation, or blockages, leaks or cracks in the venting systems.

Homeowners can take action against potential carbon monoxide poisoning by taking the following steps:

Have all fuel-burning appliances professionally inspected yearly, preferably before the start of the cold-weather season when heaters and furnaces are first used
These appliances include gas stoves and ovens, furnaces and heaters, water heaters, generators, and clothes dryers
All such devices should be properly installed and vented to the outside whenever possible
If repairs are necessary, be sure they are performed by a qualified technician
Always use the proper fuel specified for the device
Have flues and chimneys for fuel-burning fireplaces or wood stoves inspected regularly for cracks, leaks, and blockages that may allow a buildup of CO to occur
Never use gas stoves or ovens to heat the home, even temporarily
Do not start or idle a vehicle in a garage, even with the outer garage door open
For additional protection, purchase a CO detector (either battery operated or plug-in) and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper location and installation
Learn what to do should the CO alarm activate: If anyone in the home experiences symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, blurred vision, nausea, or confusion, everyone should leave immediately and seek medical attention. If no symptoms are felt, open doors and windows immediately and shut off all fuel-burning devices that may be potential sources of CO.

Pillar To Post SE King County serves, Issaquah, Renton, Maple Valley, Covington, Bellevue, Enumclaw and surrounding areas. Visit our Web site www.ptphome.com/sekingcounty

Value Add Home Repairs

Brendan Marchant (Pillar to Post professional Home Inspection) — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 09:57:09 -0500

HOME REPAIRS BEFORE SALE CAN ADD VALUE

Many homeowners often overlook easy and relatively inexpensive fixes that can add real value to a home’s selling price. While major remodeling is costly and may not address the needs and tastes of prospective buyers, these repairs and maintenance suggestions have universal appeal and may help a home sell more quickly – and for more.

INTERIOR

Bathrooms and the kitchen should be given a deep cleaning. Homeowners should consider hiring a cleaning company that offers “move in / move out” cleaning services to do the job.
If kitchen cabinet surfaces are in bad shape, refacing may be an option. Far less expensive than new cabinetry, refacing can give old and worn cabinets new life and can visually update a kitchen.
Consider replacing kitchen or bathroom counters with a neutral colored laminate surface if the current material is badly worn or stained. This gives everything a fresh look and prevents buyers from focusing on an eyesore.
Fresh paint on the walls and ceilings will do wonders for all rooms in the house. Stick to neutral colors so that buyers aren’t distracted by the color. They’ll be able to imagine themselves and their furniture in the space much more easily.
If carpet is covering hardwood floors, consider having the carpet removed to expose the hardwood flooring. Hardwood floors are desirable, so they should be shown off. If carpet is to remain, it should be thoroughly cleaned.

EXTERIOR

If the entire exterior needs painting, it should be done. Buyers notice if paint is faded and peeling. If the paint is in good shape overall, renew the doors and trim with a fresh coat.
Clean the windows inside and out so they sparkle. It’s amazing what a difference this can make in a home’s appearance. Hiring a professional window cleaning company is the easiest and safest way to get the job done on a multi-story home.
Clear clutter from the yard, keep the lawn mowed, and trim any overgrown shrubs that are detracting from the home’s appearance. The home should look well maintained even at first glance.
Plant some bright, colorful flowers along an entry path and doorway to add a welcoming touch.

Homeowners should save their major remodeling projects (and budget) for their new home, not the one they are about to sell, but implementing some of the steps above can increase the appeal to prospective buyers without a huge investment of time or money.

Pillar To Post SE King County Serving Issaquah, Renton, Maple Valley, Enumclaw, Covington, Bellevue and surrounding areas.