Manufactured Housing and Standards
Manufactured Homes The term “manufactured home” was adopted in 1980 by the the U.S. Congress to describe a type of house that is constructed in a factory to comply with a building code developed by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). In the past, manufactured homes were called “mobile homes,” a term that […]
Log Home Basics
Log Home Basics Log homes may be site-built or pre-cut in a factory for delivery to the site. Some log home manufacturers can also customize their designs. Before designing or purchasing a manufactured log home, you need to consider the following factors for energy efficiency. The R-Value of Wood In a log home, the wood helps […]
Lead Facts
Did you know the following facts about lead? FACT: Lead exposure can harm young children and babies even before they are born. FACT: Even children who seem healthy can have high levels of lead in their bodies. FACT: You can get lead in your body by breathing or swallowing lead dust, or by eating soil or […]
Lightning: Facts and Dangers
Facts About Lightning Lightning is the “visible discharge of static electricity within a cloud, between clouds or between the earth and a cloud,” as defined by Underwriters Laboratories. Lightning is unpredictable and a serious threat to buildings and their occupants virtually everywhere. Benjamin Franklin invented the first lightning rod in 1752 –- a kite outfitted with […]
Landscape Shading
Landscape Shading One of the easiest ways to reduce solar heat gain and subsequent energy costs is as simple as planting a tree. The strategic placement of trees, known as landscape shading or tree shading, is a technique used to provide shade from the warm summer sun. Unobstructed solar heat can significantly increase indoor air temperature, […]
Air Quality in the Home
Some Facts about Air Quality in the Home Indoor air quality can be worse than that of outdoor air. Problems can arise from moisture, insects, pets, appliances, radon, materials used in household products and furnishings, smoke, and other sources. Effects range from minor annoyances to major health risks. Remedies include ventilation, cleaning, moisture control, inspections, […]
How Your Smart Home Can Help You Prepare for the Next Big Storm
Staying Safe in a Storm with Your Smart Home As high-tech as our modern homes have become, we’re still at the mercy of Mother Nature every time the next big storm rolls through. While there’s not much you can do to put a stop to strong winds, power outages, and flooding, the right smart home […]
Household and Environmental Hazards
Moisture Related Hazards Mold spreading across the corner of a room, revealing a moisture problem. Hazards associated with damp environments or excessive water exposure: Algae: Microorganisms growing in damp areas, discolor shingles. Condensation: Water condensing on walls and ceilings due to humidity, controlled with ventilation. Fungal Wood Rot (Dry Rot): Caused by long-term exposure of wood to moisture […]
House Numbers
House Numbers Ever wonder about your house number? Often, the previous owner installed the number and the new owner never had to think about it, leaving them clueless as to why it was placed where it is or why a particular color or size was chosen. These numbers are more important than you probably realize, […]
Home Insurance Tips
Why Homeowners Insurance is Essential and How to Save on It The largest, single investment most consumers make is in their homes. The consumer can protect their home, possessions, and liability with a homeowner’s insurance policy. The homeowner’s insurance policy is a package policy that combines more than one type of insurance coverage in a […]