Manufactured Housing and Standards
Manufactured Housing & Quality Standards 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,” […]
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
Lightning Safety & Awareness 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 […]
Landscape Shading
Optimize Landscape Shading for Energy Savings 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 […]
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
The Advantages of a 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 tech can give […]
Household and Environmental Hazards
Understanding Household & Environmental Hazards Small model house sinking into cracked ground, symbolizing property damage, natural disasters, or housing instability. Your home should be a place of comfort and safety—but what if it’s quietly putting your health at risk? Many homeowners don’t realize that everyday environments can hide dangerous hazards, from mold and radon to […]
House Numbers
Why House Numbers are Important for Safety & Security A stylish wooden room number “5615” mounted on a dark wood panel, likely for a hotel or apartment door. The elegant, dimensional numbers are set against a textured backdrop, with stone or textured wall visible to the left. Ever wonder about your house number? Often, the […]
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 […]