(BPT) – If chilly temperatures make you want to snuggle under a blanket in front of a roaring fire, just think about your poor water pipes that can’t escape the cold. You can’t wrap your home in a warm, protective blanket when winter arrives, but a few…
(BPT) – If chilly temperatures make you want to snuggle under a blanket in front of a roaring fire, just think about your poor water pipes that can’t escape the cold. You can’t wrap your home in a warm, protective blanket when winter arrives, but a few…
(BPT) – As summer gives way to changing colors and colder nights, now is an ideal time to tackle the necessary home maintenance projects that get put off during those sun-filled months – especially when it comes to one of the most protective and necessary aspects of any home, the roof. Cold weather can aggravate a roof and quickly turn minor defects into costly repair bills; in fact, the latest “Cost vs. Value” report from Remodeling Magazine estimates the average roofing replacement cost at over $20,000.
So, whether you’ve already noticed signs of wear on your roof or just want more “overhead” peace of mind, pay special attention to two seemingly small aspects of the roof that homeowners often overlook:
Seal it, patch it
Be sure to check for any gaps around gutters, skylights and roofing vents then utilize the correct caulking, patching and sealants. The easy act of sealing these areas can make a big difference in keeping out moisture and reducing heating costs – and many sealants are especially designed to adhere directly onto exterior surfaces. Even the tiniest cracks and gaps can allow moisture to enter, not to mention rodents, squirrels and other unwelcome varmints.
Don’t be a welcome mat for squirrels
Another area to closely inspect are the roof venting pipes. One of the more common roof problems involves cracked rooftop venting pipes made with cheap lead tops as they eventually corrode over time. To make matters worse, squirrels and other critters are known to relentlessly chew their way into a home via these thin pipe flashings as the lead entices these unwelcome varmints to gnaw at them, thus providing interior access for damaging rain, snow and more pests once whittled away.
“Squirrel infestation is a very big problem throughout many areas of the United States, especially older homes,” explains Amanda Williams, marketing manager at Quarrix. “This is exactly why we developed a durable, lead-free and easy-to-install vent pipe flashing called Pipe Boot that simply slides over the existing vent, nails into place, and then twists securely to form a weather-tight seal.” With Pipe Boot, no specialty installation tools are needed as the telescoping sleeve allows for varying pipe sizes and can withstand frigid winter temperatures via a patented design. It comes in four color options, and is paintable to cleverly camouflage the vent pipes, reducing unwanted sight-lines.
Enlist the pros quickly when there’s trouble
Waiting too late to call in a certified professional can lead to much bigger issues. For example, squirrels quickly reproduce and can potentially gnaw on electrical wiring or crawl into difficult-to-reach wall spaces, making extraction a nightmare. It’s a wise move to seek out a reputable roofing specialist, especially when it involves roof damage from weather or critters, or both.
The roof is no place to cut corners, and no matter the season, even seemingly minor roofing issues can put your home and valuables at risk. To learn more about preventing costly squirrel damage on the roof with a lead-free Quarrix Pipe Boot or review a thorough seasonal roof maintenance checklist, simply visit: Quarrix.com/Checklist or call 800-438-2920 for more information.
(BPT) – As summer gives way to changing colors and colder nights, now is an ideal time to tackle the necessary home maintenance projects that get put off during those sun-filled months – especially when it comes to one of the most protective and necessary aspects of any home, the roof. Cold weather can aggravate a roof and quickly turn minor defects into costly repair bills; in fact, the latest “Cost vs. Value” report from Remodeling Magazine estimates the average roofing replacement cost at over $20,000.
So, whether you’ve already noticed signs of wear on your roof or just want more “overhead” peace of mind, pay special attention to two seemingly small aspects of the roof that homeowners often overlook:
Seal it, patch it
Be sure to check for any gaps around gutters, skylights and roofing vents then utilize the correct caulking, patching and sealants. The easy act of sealing these areas can make a big difference in keeping out moisture and reducing heating costs – and many sealants are especially designed to adhere directly onto exterior surfaces. Even the tiniest cracks and gaps can allow moisture to enter, not to mention rodents, squirrels and other unwelcome varmints.
Don’t be a welcome mat for squirrels
Another area to closely inspect are the roof venting pipes. One of the more common roof problems involves cracked rooftop venting pipes made with cheap lead tops as they eventually corrode over time. To make matters worse, squirrels and other critters are known to relentlessly chew their way into a home via these thin pipe flashings as the lead entices these unwelcome varmints to gnaw at them, thus providing interior access for damaging rain, snow and more pests once whittled away.
“Squirrel infestation is a very big problem throughout many areas of the United States, especially older homes,” explains Amanda Williams, marketing manager at Quarrix. “This is exactly why we developed a durable, lead-free and easy-to-install vent pipe flashing called Pipe Boot that simply slides over the existing vent, nails into place, and then twists securely to form a weather-tight seal.” With Pipe Boot, no specialty installation tools are needed as the telescoping sleeve allows for varying pipe sizes and can withstand frigid winter temperatures via a patented design. It comes in four color options, and is paintable to cleverly camouflage the vent pipes, reducing unwanted sight-lines.
Enlist the pros quickly when there’s trouble
Waiting too late to call in a certified professional can lead to much bigger issues. For example, squirrels quickly reproduce and can potentially gnaw on electrical wiring or crawl into difficult-to-reach wall spaces, making extraction a nightmare. It’s a wise move to seek out a reputable roofing specialist, especially when it involves roof damage from weather or critters, or both.
The roof is no place to cut corners, and no matter the season, even seemingly minor roofing issues can put your home and valuables at risk. To learn more about preventing costly squirrel damage on the roof with a lead-free Quarrix Pipe Boot or review a thorough seasonal roof maintenance checklist, simply visit: Quarrix.com/Checklist or call 800-438-2920 for more information.
(BPT) – As we are all too aware, hurricane season is in full swing, and thousands of homeowners across the southern U.S. and Puerto Rico have been hit by mammoth hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria.
Nearly every year, the cost of damages that occur as a …
(BPT) – As we are all too aware, hurricane season is in full swing, and thousands of homeowners across the southern U.S. and Puerto Rico have been hit by mammoth hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria.
Nearly every year, the cost of damages that occur as a …
(BPT) – Temperatures are falling, pumpkin spice everything has reappeared and stores have already put out holiday displays – all signs that winter is either on the way, or already here, depending on where you live. If you haven’t already had your heati…
(BPT) – Temperatures are falling, pumpkin spice everything has reappeared and stores have already put out holiday displays – all signs that winter is either on the way, or already here, depending on where you live. If you haven’t already had your heati…
(BPT) – With the imminent approach of dropping temperatures, many people reach for their sweaters as they run out the door. In a bittersweet farewell to summer, boats are hauled out of the water and taken in to be winterized. Wool sock purchases start to soar, and Instagram is filled again with pumpkin spice latte images. And, don’t forget those pet owners who dress their dogs in miniature rain jackets and scarves. It is officially fall.
Often, in this natural progression toward hibernation and all things cozy, preparation for your house is forgotten. Insulation for the home can seem intimidating, but don’t let that stop you from digging deeper. You’ll find that proper insulation is key for superior home comfort and increased energy savings. Read on for some easy-to-understand information on why your home may need its own new sweater this winter to help you stay warm.
Why is insulation important?
There are two huge reasons: consistency and savings. First, insulation helps keep your home at a consistently comfortable temperature. Second, insulation creates a more energy-efficient home, saving you up to 20 percent in heating/cooling costs, according to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). To put that in perspective, the typical U.S. home has a heating/cooling bill that accounts for almost half of its energy costs each month — meaning you could save 10 percent of your overall energy bill.
What type of insulation do you need?
As for most things in life, it is important to know your options. Three of the most common types of insulation for home DIY are fiberglass batts, rigid foam panels (such as expanded polystyrene, or EPS) and mineral wool. Look below for the advantages and disadvantages of each.
Fiberglass
* Pros – non-flammable, inexpensive
* Cons – difficult to install properly without leaving gaps, which renders the insulation much less efficient; handling danger due to glass powder and small glass shards
EPS rigid foam panels
* Pros – excellent sound and temperature insulation; inexpensive; easy to install
* Cons – must cut pieces to fit around pipes, etc.
Mineral wool
* Pros – easy to install; flame resistant
* Cons – more effective when combined with other forms of insulation (meaning more work to install); higher price
For self-installation in your home, EPS offers many benefits other forms of insulation do not. Other forms of insulation (like fiberglass or mineral wool) require more safety precautions, like protective wear and training for proper installation.
“EPS provides the best insulating performance — ‘R-value’ — per dollar of any insulation,” says insulation expert Paul Kopelson, regional sales director for Insulfoam. “Other forms of insulation are challenging to install without leaving gaps and wrinkles that can cut the efficiency of the product in half. It’s important as a homeowner to know that your insulation will do what it’s supposed to, and do it well.”
What’s next?
Inhale confidence, exhale doubts. With your new knowledge of insulation types, a quick trip to a local home improvement store will arm you to better understand the options. Nationally, stores like Home Depot stock a wide range of insulation products, including EPS options such as R-Tech insulation. Regionally, other retail and lumber dealers carry these items. Check them out, and get ready for a warmer winter. Your house (and your energy bill) will thank you.
(BPT) – With the imminent approach of dropping temperatures, many people reach for their sweaters as they run out the door. In a bittersweet farewell to summer, boats are hauled out of the water and taken in to be winterized. Wool sock purchases start to soar, and Instagram is filled again with pumpkin spice latte images. And, don’t forget those pet owners who dress their dogs in miniature rain jackets and scarves. It is officially fall.
Often, in this natural progression toward hibernation and all things cozy, preparation for your house is forgotten. Insulation for the home can seem intimidating, but don’t let that stop you from digging deeper. You’ll find that proper insulation is key for superior home comfort and increased energy savings. Read on for some easy-to-understand information on why your home may need its own new sweater this winter to help you stay warm.
Why is insulation important?
There are two huge reasons: consistency and savings. First, insulation helps keep your home at a consistently comfortable temperature. Second, insulation creates a more energy-efficient home, saving you up to 20 percent in heating/cooling costs, according to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). To put that in perspective, the typical U.S. home has a heating/cooling bill that accounts for almost half of its energy costs each month — meaning you could save 10 percent of your overall energy bill.
What type of insulation do you need?
As for most things in life, it is important to know your options. Three of the most common types of insulation for home DIY are fiberglass batts, rigid foam panels (such as expanded polystyrene, or EPS) and mineral wool. Look below for the advantages and disadvantages of each.
Fiberglass
* Pros – non-flammable, inexpensive
* Cons – difficult to install properly without leaving gaps, which renders the insulation much less efficient; handling danger due to glass powder and small glass shards
EPS rigid foam panels
* Pros – excellent sound and temperature insulation; inexpensive; easy to install
* Cons – must cut pieces to fit around pipes, etc.
Mineral wool
* Pros – easy to install; flame resistant
* Cons – more effective when combined with other forms of insulation (meaning more work to install); higher price
For self-installation in your home, EPS offers many benefits other forms of insulation do not. Other forms of insulation (like fiberglass or mineral wool) require more safety precautions, like protective wear and training for proper installation.
“EPS provides the best insulating performance — ‘R-value’ — per dollar of any insulation,” says insulation expert Paul Kopelson, regional sales director for Insulfoam. “Other forms of insulation are challenging to install without leaving gaps and wrinkles that can cut the efficiency of the product in half. It’s important as a homeowner to know that your insulation will do what it’s supposed to, and do it well.”
What’s next?
Inhale confidence, exhale doubts. With your new knowledge of insulation types, a quick trip to a local home improvement store will arm you to better understand the options. Nationally, stores like Home Depot stock a wide range of insulation products, including EPS options such as R-Tech insulation. Regionally, other retail and lumber dealers carry these items. Check them out, and get ready for a warmer winter. Your house (and your energy bill) will thank you.