8 Ways to Fix Common Flooring Issues

While floors and flooring materials might be unique, the issues they cause are not. Learn how you can address common flooring problems - including squeaky floors, popping tiles, buckling floors, chipped tiles, scratched or faded hardwood floors, cracked concrete floors, and more.

What to do if Your GFCI Won’t Reset

Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are electrical outlets that shut off when it senses an overload or surge in electricity. The GFCI outlet instantly trips when experiencing a power surge, triggering the breaker to cut the electrical current to reduce the risk of electrocution. Most building codes require the use of a GFCI outlet when installed near a water or moisture source due to the increased risk of an appliance shorting.

10 Repairs to Make Before Selling Your Home

There are many repairs and minor updates that will make your home more appealing to potential buyers and avoid problems during a home inspection. Suggested repairs and updates include patching holes and cracks in walls, HVAC maintenance, repairing or replacing bathroom and kitchen faucets, addressing water damage and mold issues, and repairing faulty wiring. Consider making these 10 repairs and updates to avoid deterring potential home buyers.

Paint a Bathroom This Color to Increase a Home’s Selling Price

A 2021 research study found that certain paint colors can increase the selling price of a home by as much as $5,000. The findings were based on an average U.S. home price of $290,000. For a kitchen, the study found that white was the buyer's preference, while for bathrooms and bedrooms, shades of blue were preferred. Learn about which specific paint colors may increase the selling price of your home.

Home Renovations to Make Before a Baby Arrives

Consider completing these 11 home renovations before a baby arrives to avoid inconvenience, noise, or health and safety of the baby. Projects to consider completing include refinishing floors, bathroom and kitchen renovations and repairs, mold remediation, and painting and staining. Learn about projects to complete and why it's best to have these finished before bringing a baby into a home.

Should You Caulk Around the Toilet

The main reason given for not caulking around toilet bases is that it could hide leaks and the resulting damage could become severe. While that thought process would be true if there was a sudden and major break in a pipe, the majority of leaks are small and don’t spread onto the bathroom floor, but instead soak into the underlying structure. Learn more about caulking around the toilet base in a bathroom.

Should I Replace My Water Heater Before It Fails?

How long a water heater lasts depends on how well it is maintained and the type of water heater. Traditional tank storage water heaters can last between 10-15 years, and tankless models can last 20 years or more. Signs that your water heater needs to be replaced include odd sounds emanating from it, inconsistent or no hot water, discolored water, visible corrosion on the tank, and the water heater leaking. If you see any of these signs, it’s time to replace your water heater.

Why Is My Toilet Tank Sweating?

Toilet tanks usually sweat as a result of too much humidity in the bathroom. To reduce the likelihood of toilet tank sweat, take steps to lower the humidity in the bathroom, including regularly running air conditioning units or dehumidifiers, which will help reduce condensation on the toilet tank.

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Mold Remediation?

Coverage for mold remediation under a homeowners insurance policy depends on the cause of the mold and the policy. Homeowners insurance usually doesn’t cover mold caused by floods or storm surges, however, mold remediation is usually covered when caused by a malfunctioning appliance. Learn more about typical homeowners insurance coverage for mold remediation.

What Kills Mold?

It’s essential to remediate mold as soon as possible so the mold spores don’t spread. Mold can cause several health conditions and cause wooden surfaces to rot. Learn about what kills mold and stops the spread within the home.

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