Spring
Home
Improvement
April 18, 2019
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the cheshire herald, april 18, 2019
the cheshire herald, april 18, 2019
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SPRINGHOMEIMPROVEMENT Renew Your Home With The Help Of Sullivan Brothers
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re you ready to make your home new again this spring and summer? Are you ready to love your home again like you once did? Now is the time to plan for that beautiful kitchen, bath, or home improvement project you’ve been thinking about, from the beautiful basics to the all-out elegant. Fitting every budget, Sullivan Brothers Remodeling, LLC, a 32-year remodeling and restoration company, specializes in additions, kitchens, baths, restorations and new construction. There isn’t a project too big or small— Sullivan Brothers does it all. Their experienced staff of carpenters and designers has completed every form of home
improvement project imaginable, including basement remodels, in-law apartments, new construction, decks, window replacements and more. John Sullivan also boasts about the 5, 000 square foot kitchen and bath showroom, located at 1 Wolcott Road in Wolcott, that features cabinets, tile displays, countertops, and vanities for every taste and, in their wood shop, custom made wood creations are built to order! Sullivan Brothers pride themselves on their many years of fair and honest pricing and consistent quality work. John Sullivan has been quoted as saying, “Our projects are never completed until our customers are completely happy.”
Showroom features variety of products. Sullivan Brothers has been voted “Best Contractor” for 13 years in a row by the “Waterbury Observer's” reader’s poll. They are members of NARI (National Association of the Remodeling Industry), Waterbury Regional Chamber, Central Connecticut Chamber, and the Better Business Bureau. If you want to love your home again, Sullivan Brothers can make it happen. Contact Sullivan Brothers at (203) 879-4555 or visit our website at www. sullivan-brothers.com.
H E L L O
The Benefits Of Adding A Freestanding Tub
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ew home design elements provide the instant wow factor of freestanding tubs. They have an air of luxury that can help current homeowners relax, and impress buyers when homes go on the market. Freestanding tubs are typically made of cast iron or porcelain. The home improvement website HomeAdvisor notes that cast iron is durable and solid and retains heat well, which is great for those who want to spend more than a little time relaxing in a freestanding tub. However, because cast iron is so heavy, installing a cast iron tub may require structural reinforcement of the flooring, which will add to the overall cost of the project. According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost to install a tub varies widely depending on the type of tub, the materials its made of and other factors, including
plumbing and piping. For example, the cost to install a freestanding tub will rise considerably if new plumbing and piping are necessary. Before purchasing a freestanding tub, homeowners should seek estimates regarding installation, making sure to get them in writing. Contractors will determine if structural reinforcement is necessary and include such costs in their estimates. In addition, make sure to ask contractors to investigate piping and plumbing so no surprises pop up after the tub has been purchased and work has begun. If estimates from contractors aren’t budget busting, homeowners can consider these benefits of freestanding tubs before making their final decisions: •Cleaning: Because they’re detached from other bathroom fixtures and not flush against the wall, freestanding tubs tend to be easier to clean than built-in bathtubs. Freestanding tubs are accessible from all sides, making it easy to reach all those nooks and crannies where grime can build up. •Return on investment: In its
2018 “Cost vs. Value” report, Remodeling magazine noted that upscale bathroom remodels recouped 56.2 percent of their cost at resale. That was a better return on investment than an upscale kitchen remodel (53.5 percent) and an upscale master suite addition (48.3 percent). The thought of a sizable return on investment can make relaxing in a freestanding tub that much more enjoyable. •Warmth: Even freestanding tubs made of materials other than cast iron offer great heat retention. Stone resin bathtubs, for example, provide excellent insulation on cold nights. That’s ideal for people who want to unwind in the tub without having to exit early because the water has become cold. Freestanding tubs can transform regular bathrooms into luxurious oases.
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SPRINGHOMEIMPROVEMENT Nick Constantino Offering Services You Can Count On
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ick Constantino Landscape Services would like to offer you something that is rare today. We would like to provide you with a Dependable, Professional and Reliable, quality service at an affordable price. Our goal at NCLS is to make our clients happy at all times. With each satisfied customer, we enhance our reputation for creativity, professionalism, dependability, and bend over backward service. That is why we would love to make you another one of our satisfied customers. Our company specializes in all aspects of landscape services and has been in Cheshire since 1987. As longtime Cheshire residents, my crew and I take personal pride in our work. We service numerous residential and commercial properties in Cheshire and the surrounding areas with each client receiving the personal attention they deserve. We understand that your home and its landscape are one of your biggest investments. We also understand the importance of having your property look its best at
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all times. We will always work within your budget and find solutions to any project. Our company works closely with many vendors and have resources for all your landscape needs regardless of the size of the job. We also realize that it can be very difficult to find lawn and landscape service providers who you can trust and count on. We are very serious when we say we are dedicated to trusting us with
your property. In fact, we are so certain we can make you happy, we guarantee our work. If you are ever unhappy with our service, let us know and we will make the necessary changes immediately. We realize that without you it is impossible for us to exist, and therefore, it is our mission to make your life a little easier. Call us today to set up an appointment for a free estimate. Thank you from all of us at NCLS!
Rewire Your Old Home
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ld homes can be charming and contain architectural elements not often seen in many modern housing developments. But what older homes may have in design appeal, they may lack in updated features. While cosmetic changes are not necessarily difficult, one area of concern in historic homes — and sometimes even in houses built 40 or 50 years ago — is archaic wiring. Wiring provides power to every room of the home. In today’s electronicsdriven society, electricity that works is an essential component of daily life. Over time, wiring can be compromised through simple aging, pest infiltration, weather, or other conditions. Deteriorated wiring can present a shock hazard and also a serious fire hazard, warn the home renovation experts at The Spruce. Furthermore, the home improvement site This Old House advises that the amperage of old wiring may not be able to meet the needs of the devices used in homes — overpowering the circuits. This can cause breaker blowouts and other problems, such as overheated wires that may spark and cause fires from within the wall. Wiring often falls into the “out of sight, out of mind” category. Homeowners may make allowances for inadequate electrical systems, such as running extension cords or using multiplug connectors to increase their wiring capacity. However, they may not be diligently keeping on top of upgrades needed to stay safe. Confirming that a home’s electrical system is safe is a necessary part of home maintenance. For those who haven’t already done so, schedule an inspection with a licensed electrician to go over the home’s wiring. He or she can determine if any areas pose a safety risk and/or do not conform to local code requirements and the National Electrical Code. Failure to meet code can lead to difficulty obtaining permits to make other home renovations, or difficulty selling a home later on. The electrician can also go over improvements that can See ADDRESS, page 11
Cortina Tile formerly of Waterbury
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the cheshire herald, april 18, 2019
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SPRINGHOMEIMPROVEMENT Plan Budget Accordingly Before Beginning Your Project
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efore starting a home improvement project, either on one’s own or with the assistance of a professional contractor, homeowners must first consider the costs involved. According to the home improvement resource HomeAdvisor, more than one-third of homeowners do not understand what hiring a professional will cost, and then cannot successfully budget and secure financing once they have set their sights on a renovation project. HomeAdvisor says that some of the more popular projects, such as remodeling a kitchen or bathroom or building a deck, can cost, on average, $19,920, $9,274 and $6,919, respectively. Homeowners may find that the more expensive renovations require them to secure some type of financing. Those who have never before sought such financing may want to consider these options. 1. Cash-out refinancing: With cash-out refinancing, a person will begin the mortgage process anew with the intention of paying off the current mortgage balance, and then taking out additional funds for other purposes. Cash-out refinancing is a way to tap into a home’s existing equity for use on improvements or other expenses, such as college tuition. 2. Home equity line of credit: The financial experts at Bankrate indicate that a HELOC works like a credit card, with the house as
their improvements soon. 5. Personal line of credit: A personal line of credit allows borrowers to borrow only the money needed at the time, and offers a variable interest rate that is generally lower than fixed loan rates. Again, like a credit card, PLOC gives a person a maximum borrowing amount and is ideal for ongoing purchases. 6. Credit cards: In a pinch, credit cards can be used to finance improvements, but they do come with the cost of very high collateral. There is a credit limit, and borrowers can spend up to that limit. The interest rate may or may not be fixed. However, the interest may be tax-deductible if the financing is used to improve, buy or build a home. 3. Home equity loan: Individuals also can borrow against equity in their homes with a fixed interest rate through a home equity loan. Most lenders will calculate 80 percent of the home value and subtract a homeowner’s mortgage balance to figure out how much can be borrowed, according to the financial advisory site The Simple Dollar. 4. Personal loan: Homeowners can shop around at various financial institutions for competitive personal loans to be used for home improvement purposes. Funds may be approved within one business day, which can be ideal for those who want to begin
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interest rates if the balance is not paid in full by the time the bill comes due. However, for funding smaller projects and maximizing rewards points through home improvement retailers or specific credit card company promotions, credit cards can be a way to earn various perks in addition to the benefit of improving a home. Homeowners looking to finance their next improvements should speak to a financial advisor and shop around for the best types of funding for them.
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SPRINGHOMEIMPROVEMENT Tend To Your Trees After A Long Winter
Feel Safe With New Security System
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eeling secure at home is a priority for most people. Many homeowners consider installing security systems to improve their sense of well-being. Whether one owns or rents, individuals may be surprised to learn that do-it-yourself security systems can be savvy investments. The right system can help people protect their belongings and their families, but sorting through the various security systems on the market can be a daunting task. While full-service setups that include professional installation and monitoring are available, some homeowners may want to investigate the highly customizable DIY kits now available. Some include personal monitoring, while others are self-install technologies with professional monitoring. Before getting started, homeowners and renters can ask themselves a few questions to help narrow down their options. • What is your budget? Professional installation and monitoring will likely cost more than DIY kits. • How large is the home? • Are you tech-savvy? • How frequently are you out of the home on vacation or extended trips?
• Do you desire emergency response? • Do you want an entire package or just some deterrent devices? Once men and women have answered these questions, it’s time to start shopping. Here are some DIY security system items that may be of interest. Smart home security systems These home security systems connect to a home’s Wi-Fi network so they can be monitored and controlled using a smartphone app. Others may be accessed through an application on the internet. It is important to look for a system that has the extra security of technology that is not easily hacked. Security cameras Some people may only want to watch the inside and outside of their residences. It can take mere minutes to set up wireless security cameras around the house. These devices connect to a WiFi network and give customers free access to a constant stream
Size of home, complexity of the security system required will determine overall DIY budget.
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of video. Some systems make it easy for homeowners to listen in on what’s going on at home and even talk to anyone within the camera’s range. Others can be paired with cloud storage for recording video.
old weather can take its toll on a property, especially in regions of the world where winters are harsh. Most parts of the landscape are vulnerable to damage from winter storms, but trees may be especially susceptible. By the end of winter, many homeowners wonder if their trees would benefit from some professional TLC. Tree services provide a host of offerings. While fall is a popular time to remove trees from a property, doing so in spring is not unheard of, especially if trees are affected by winter storms and now
ment resource HomeAdvisor, homeowners pay an average of just over $4,000 to repair foundation issues, though major problems can cost considerably more than that. A professional tree service can remove aging trees that might be beautiful and awe-inspiring but still pose a threat to a home and the areas surrounding it. •Tree services can improve visibility. Trees that have aged a bit since their last trimming might affect the view of a property from inside a home. Overgrown branches can compromise residents’ ability to see and experi-
pose a threat to a home and the people who live inside it. Homeowners considering tree services can explore the following ways that some professional arbor attention can protect them and their homes: •Tree services can help protect a home’s foundation. Old trees that stretch well into the sky can be captivating, but they also can pose a threat to a home’s foundation. Such trees may have especially large root zones that may extend beneath walkways and even a home. In the latter instance, foundations may crack as roots try to stake their claim to the ground beneath a home. According to the home improve-
ence the natural beauty just outside their windows. The average homeowner may be able to trim short trees on his or her own, but if views from the second floor of a home or higher have been compromised, it’s much safer to call a professional tree service. Such services have the right tools and experienced personnel necessary to safely trim high branches on tall trees. •Tree services can help prevent future damage. Even if trees made it through a recent winter unscathed, that’s no guarantee next winter or even the coming seasons of spring, summer and fall won’t ultimately prove their
Professionally monitored Residents who are away from home frequently or are too busy to constantly monitor security systems may like the peace of mind of professionally monitored kits. Services like Frontpoint®, Link Interactive® and Scout® are just three that have affordable starter kits and video monitoring. Monitored alarm systems can be set to call the police or other emergency services if necessary. Entry-level or advanced systems Entry-level systems typically include a few door and window sensors, a motion detector and a hub that communicates with these sensors. This may be enough for someone in an apartment or small house. More extensive systems may include additional sensors, door locks, garage door openers, surveillance cameras, lights, sirens, and even water and smoke detectors. Do-it-yourself security systems represent a new wave to safeguard one’s belongings and family. Kits continue to evolve and have become more seamless than ever.
See SERVICES, page 11
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the cheshire herald, april 18, 2019
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SPRINGHOMEIMPROVEMENT Make Your Outdoors The Place To Be This Summer
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hether home improvement projects are designed to improve the interior or exterior of a house, focusing on renovations that make the most financial sense can benefit homeowners in the long run. The right renovations can be assets if and when homeowners decide to sell their homes. So how does one get started? First and foremost, speak to a local real estate agent who is knowledgeable about trends in the community. While a swimming pool may be something coveted in one area, it may impede sales in another. It also helps to study generalized trends and data from various home improvement industry analysts to guide upcoming projects. The following outdoor projects are just a few renovations that tend to add value. •Fire pit: A fire pit is a great place to gather most of the year. Bob Vila and CBS news report that a fire pit realizes a 78 percent return on investment, or ROI. •Outdoor kitchen: Many buyers are looking to utilize their yards
as an extension of interior living areas. Cooking, dining and even watching TV outdoors is increasingly popular. Outdoor living areas can be custom designed and built. In addition, prefabricated modular units that require a much smaller commitment of time and money are available. •Patio: Homeowners who do not already have a patio will find that adding one can increase a home’s value. Patios help a home look neat, add useable space and may help a home to sell quickly. The experts at Space Wise, a division of Extra Space Storage, say that refinishing, repairing and building a new patio offers strong ROI. •Deck: Deck can be as valuable as patios. A deck is another outdoor space that can be used for entertaining, dining and more. Remodeling magazine’s 2018 “Cost vs. Value” report indicates that an $11,000 deck can add about $9,000 in resale value to the home, recouping around 82 percent of the project’s costs. •Door update: Improve curb appeal with a new, high-end front door and garage doors. If that’s
Easy fixes can help to improve the aesthetics of your outdoors and increase the value of your property. too expensive, a good cleaning and new coat of paint can make an old door look brand new. These easy fixes can improve a home’s look instantly.
•New landscaping: The National Association of Realtors says an outdoor makeover that includes well-thought out landscaping can net 105 percent ROI. Installing a
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walkway, adding stone planters, mulching, and planting shrubs are ideas to consider. Many different outdoor projects can add value to a home.
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the cheshire herald, april 18, 2019
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SPRINGHOMEIMPROVEMENT Tips To Win Your Battle Against Crabgrass
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omeowners who enjoy tending to their lawns know that grass is vulnerable to a host of problems, many of which appear at a time of year when lawn enthusiasts want to showcase the fruits of their lawn-and-garden labors. Crabgrass is a common problem that appears in summer. According to Lowes, crabgrass plants produce thousands of seeds between midsummer and early fall. While the first frosts of latefall or early winter kill the crabgrass plants, the seeds produced by the plants remain dormant throughout winter and then begin to grow as the ground temperature warms up with the spring and summer thaw. As a result, controlling germination, which is
the development of a plant from a seed or spore after a period of dormancy, is the key to preventing crabgrass from becoming an unsightly blemish that can harm your lawn in summer. A proactive approach to crabgrass can save homeowners the headaches of dealing with this unwanted guest taking over their grass. The following tips, courtesy of Lowes, can help homeowners reduce the likelihood of their lawns being overcome by crabgrass as summer hits full swing. •Recognize that routine lawn maintenance may not be enough. Even lawns that receive sufficient TLC can fall victim to crabgrass. A proactive, crabgrass-specific approach to lawn maintenance is the most effective way to control
the problem before it pops up. •Apply a pre-emergent herbicide. Pre-emergent herbicides kill crabgrass seedlings as they germinate. While these herbicides are highly effective, they must be applied at precisely the right time. The right time to apply them depends on weather patterns. For example, Lowes notes that homeowners who live in regions that might have experienced warmer than usual winters will probably need to apply the herbicides earlier than usual. While the manufacturer instructions should always be followed when applying herbicides, it’s essential that homeowners take weather patterns into consideration as well. •Wait until the ground temperature rises above 60 F. Apply-
Routine lawn maintenance may not be enough to keep crabgrass from growing. ing herbicides when the ground temperature is below 60 F might render the products ineffective. Gauging soil temperature can be tricky, but Lowes advises monitoring shrubs and trees on the property. Once shrubs begin to bloom and trees bud, herbicide can be applied. •Wait when treating newly seeded lawns. Pre-emergent herbicides might kill new grass
seedlings, so homeowners with newly seeded lawns should wait until they have mowed their lawns three times before applying a herbicide. •Emphasize uniform application. If a herbicide is not applied uniformly across the lawn, crabgrass can establish itself and ultimately spread to the rest of the lawn. •Do not thatch or aerate after applying a herbicide. Thatching or aerating a lawn after applying a herbicide might break the product’s chemical barrier, thereby rendering it ineffective. Crabgrass can quickly spread on an untreated lawn. A proactive approach that prevents its growth can keep lawns looking great through summer.
the cheshire herald, april 18, 2019
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SPRINGHOMEIMPROVEMENT Know The Latest Deck Trends
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ustom-built decks can expand usable outdoor entertaining spaces. Decks can surround pools and create outdoor patio areas that make it easy to establish multitiered living spaces, improving the functionality of outdoor areas. Certain deck trends have emerged as industry experts’ top picks for the upcoming remodeling and renovation season. For those thinking of revamping an existing deck, or building an entirely new one, these trends are on point. •Established perimeters: “Picture framing” is not a new trend, but one that has taken greater hold in recent years. The term
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refers to aesthetically appealing designs that conceal the ends of deck boards for a clean finish. Some designs feature contrasting material colors on the ends for even more impact. This helps create refined perimeters for a polished look. •Roof-top decking: Urban areas also can benefit from decking to create usable outdoor spaces. In fact, many new condominium and townhouse communities are incorporating roof-top decks into their designs, particularly in communities with water views or other impressive vistas. HGTV experts suggest roof-top decks feature light-colored materials and fixtures to help keep the area
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cool even in direct sunlight. •Distressed hardwood: Builder and Developer, a management resource for professional homebuilders, says that the trend for using distressed hardwoods at home has migrated outside. Some decking manufacturers have recently introduced low-maintenance composite deck boards that mimic the look and feel of distressed, rustic hardwood flooring. This weathered appearance gives the look of age without the upkeep of real aged wood. •Wooden walkways: Decking can be the more traditional design people envision with a patio table or outdoor furniture. But it also can consist of wooden walkways or a low-laying patio to accentuate the yard. •Mixed materials: Homeowners may be inspired by commercial eateries, breweries and urban markets in their exterior design choices. Decks featuring composite materials and aluminum railings blend sophistication, urban appeal and comfort. •Personal touches: Homeowners can customize their decks with personal touches. It’s not unheard of to wrap columns in stone or glass tiles for more impact. And a vast array of decking
colors now enables fun interpretations for outdoor areas. •Fire pit conversation area: Many decks can incorporate water or fire elements for visual appeal. Gas-fueled fire elements can expand the functionality of
decks beyond the warm seasons, or make enjoying them practical on nights when the temperature plummets. Decks are reimagined in many different ways with continually evolving trends.
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Ten
SPRINGHOMEIMPROVEMENT ACCESSIBLE DESIGN CONSULTANTS
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Small Project Produces Big Results
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nother page from the “Small But Mighty” files: A small project can have a major impact on the aesthetic and function of your home. One of our recent home renovation projects featured a 50 square foot addition that solved a number of circulation and functional issues concerning accessibility in the home. My client wanted to move her elderly mom home from an assisted living facility. This meant turning a parlor room into a bedroom, while that the existing powder room on the first floor needed to be turned into an accessible bathroom. The project involved adding a 5’x10’ addition to the existing powder room and renovating the existing one to blend seamlessly with the new. The new bathroom is 80 square feet and accommodates a nocurb shower, a comfort height toilet with a bidet feature, new stacked washer and dryer, and a wheelchair accessible counter and sink. The new large, energy efficient windows frame a lovely view of the outside gardens, and create a light-filled space that is unique in this older New England farmhouse home. With radiant floor heating, ceiling-mounted heat lights, a clothes dryer to warm towels, and decorative but functional grab bars, my client’s mom enjoys her bathroom in spa-like comfort. A small chandelier set into the arched ceiling is the crowning jewel of the room. Outside, the addition helps to create a small sheltered courtyard on the west side of the house where mom enjoys the sun, gardens and nature that surround the house. The exterior takes cues from the architecture of the existing house, and was designed to be a charming addition to the garden side of the home. Inside and out, this small project successfully enhances the quality of life of all the occupants. For more information, please visit www.accessdesign.us.
Accessible Design Consultants offers solutions to help you live in your own home for as long as possible. We can redesign any part of your home including:
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the cheshire herald, april 18, 2019
Eleven
SPRINGHOMEIMPROVEMENT
What Is A Water Table And Why Is It So Important?
T
he groundwater table plays a role in home construction, foundation stability and home comfort. Because the groundwater table is so significant, it behooves homeowners to understand how it works. National Geographic defines a water table as the boundary between water-saturated ground and unsaturated ground. Well beneath the ground, at various
depths depending on geography, topography and weather conditions, pockets of water, called aquifers, exist. The water table marks the boundary between that available water and the dry surface. Ground water is impacted by precipitation, irrigation and ground cover. It also may be affected by land use and tides. The water table can fluctuate with the seasons and from year to year
because it is affected by climatic variations, as well as how much water may be drawn from underground, advises Encyclopedia Britannica. The water table where one person lives may be several inches or feet below the surface of the ground and follow the topography of the land. For others, it may be much higher, even coming above the surface of the soil. The water table as well as local soil conditions and drainage can impact homes and their foundations. If soil drains efficiently and there is a relatively low water table, it may not be problematic. However, if soil is dense and absorbent and the water table is high, the ground around a home may swell and become saturated. This can exert significant pres-
sure against the foundation walls, states Rytech, a water damage and mold rehabilitation company. In areas where a local water table rises near the surface, water can push against the underside of the foundation in a condition known as “hydrostatic pressure.” This may cause water to infiltrate through the bottom of the foundation — even permeating solid concrete over time. If hydrostatic pressure is severe, it could lift certain portions of the foundation out of the ground, but this is very unlikely. But it could cause shifting of foundation walls and structures like fencing and decks. Even if ground water does not cause foundation cracking or shifting, it could lead to humidity issues, resulting in rust, bacteria
and mold. Wood structures in a home may be compromised by a high level of humidity. The home improvement resource Angie’s List says certain steps may need to be taken to protect against damage from a water table and abundant ground water. Basement and foundation waterproofing professionals can help homeowners develop a plan to mitigate water damage. This can include grading changes and the installation of drains and pumps to move water away from the house. Special paints and sealants also can protect the foundation. Ground water can be a hindrance when it affects the home, but homeowners who learn about it can be in a position to confront any ground water issues.
Services Can Prevent Future Damage
continued from page 6
undoing. Travelers Insurance notes that weather-related roof damage, including damage resulting from falling limbs and branches weighed down by snow during the winter months, accounted for more than half of all Travelers property loss claims between 2009 and 2016. According to BNC Insurance and Risk Advisors, homeowners may be liable if a tree they knew posed a threat falls onto a passerby or a neighbor’s property and causes damage or injury. Having all trees properly trimmed each year, but especially those that can fall on your home and your neighbors’ homes, may prevent future damage and legal issues. Tree services can ensure trees maintain their awe-inspiring beauty and help homeowners protect their homes and their belongings.
Address Dangers Before Problems Arise
continued from page 4
04/31/19
improve safety and function. Additional outlets, including GFCI outlets in kitchens and bathrooms, may be part of the plan, as well as rewiring a fuse box or circuit panel to allow for better flow of power around the house. Frayed wiring or underinsulated wiring also may need to be replaced. Owners of old homes should recognize possible electrical system dangers that require attention. Plus, considering electrical codes change quite frequently, it is always in a homeowner’s best interest to work with a qualified electrician to keep wiring inspected and up to date.
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the cheshire herald, april 18, 2019
Twelve
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