​Every homeowner wants to know that they are going to be safe and secure in their homes, however, would it surprise you to learn that even the lock on your front door may not be as secure as you think? Some intruders may easily gain entry through your exterior doors by means of a bump key.
 
What is a bump key? It is a key that is cut in a specific way that allows it to pick a pin-tumbler type of lock.  A pin-tumbler style lock is one of the most common types of lock and is used all over the world so, we can see why it’s important for homeowners to be aware of anything that can pick this type of lock.  Bump keys are reasonably easy to obtain, you just need to know who the manufacturer of the lock is.  It also takes very little skill to learn to use a bump key and not much time to master so it would appeal to a would-be intruder.
 
How can you reduce the likelihood that an intruder would use a bump key on your door?  There are locks out there which are bump proof, but they are expensive and often hard to find.  It is more common to find bump-resistant locks so this may be an option for you.
 
As well as the locks on your door, you may want to think about a different type of security system that would alert you to anyone trying to break into your home.  If you have any concerns about the safety of your exterior doors, please feel free to contact us and we will be happy to advise you.

​Moving house can be a very stressful time in our lives so we may be forgiven for not making environmental consciousness a top priority on moving day. But, what are some ways we can prepare ahead of time so that we not only reduce the stresses associated with moving but do so with low environmental impact?
 
One way to do it is by taking the time to sort through your belongings and simplifying. Start by sorting items into piles, one pile could be for things you want to keep, one pile can be to sell at a yard sale and another pile can be items you wish to donate. Starting this process well ahead of moving day will enable you to take the time to recycle things you no longer wish to keep instead of quickly throwing them into the trash on a hectic moving day.  Another plus side to this is that you will only take belongings you want to your new home and unpacking will be easier.
 
There are numerous items we use in our daily life that, if disposed of in the wrong way, could negatively impact our environment. Among those items are paint cans, various chemicals, electronic equipment, used batteries, and light bulbs. Again, by sorting through these items ahead of time you will be able to dispose of them in the correct manner. If you do not know the best way to dispose of them contact your local environmental agency who can give you advice on where to take them.
 
Yes, being environmentally aware is something we all want to think about, even during stressful times such as moving house.

​If we really think about it, toilets are one of the most indispensable parts of a home, yet we often take them for granted, assuming that they will just keep on working. Considering an average person flushes a toilet around 2500 times in a year, it's worth taking a bit of time to check that the toilets in our home are working the way they should. Here are a few easy checks you can do:
 
Start by flushing the toilet, take notice of how long the water tank takes to fill up again, does it seem to be a long time? If it does, it may be an indication that the toilet needs maintenance. This would also be the case if the toilet takes a long time to flush.
 
Another issue common with toilets is constantly running water. Many people don’t feel this is much of a problem and get used to it but, if the water is constantly running, this is not only a waste of water but over time it will be costing you money as well. If you use a private well for your water it may also cause damage to the pump. As you can see, this is not something you should ignore.
 
Have a thorough check of the toilet bowl. Have chips or cracks developed in the porcelain? If you do find any, you will want to have this problem fixed immediately. Were you aware that a home inspector will note a toilet as faulty if they notice this problem?
 
Yes, every once in a while it's good to take some time to check every toilet in the home and make sure this essential part of the home is in good working order.

​With 2020 being a new year and a whole new decade perhaps you’ve been thinking about all the things you’d like to accomplish in the coming year. Are home improvements on your list of projects to do? Maybe you’re thinking about finally getting around to renovating some rooms of your house. We are all aware of the importance of regular maintenance to keep a home running in tip-top shape but, have you ever thought of including a yearly home inspection as part of that maintenance? What would you answer if you were asked when the last time a home inspection was performed on your home? Most people would likely say it was when they purchased the home.
 
So, why is an annual maintenance inspection important? How will it help to maintain your home? To answer those questions, please watch the following brief video which highlights the many ways a regular home inspection can help when it comes to looking after your property.

​At this time of year, there’s nothing like coming home to a warm and cozy fire. Not all homes have traditional fireplaces, so a very popular option is the factory-built fireplace.  What is a factory-built fireplace and how easy is it to install and maintain?
 
As the name might suggest a factory-built fireplace is a fireplace that is made in a facility that can then stored until its ready to be installed in a home later on. While many of these types of fireplace are used in new construction, it is not a requirement and can be used in most homes. This type of pre-manufactured fireplace is made up of a firebox that is enclosed in a steel cabinet with a steel chimney or flue attached.
 
Factory-built fireplaces are a good option as they are lightweight, not overly expensive and are safe and efficient to use. This means that they can be installed easily on any floor of the home you choose. Another advantage of this kind of fireplace is that they have very small safe-clearance requirements and can be installed close to wood framing. The level of clearance, however, will depend on the manufacturer so it's important to check that before installation.
 
Although factory-built fireplaces have an excellent safety record, it’s important to take the appropriate fire-safety precautions, just as you would a traditional fireplace. This would include a monthly inspection of the chimney during the cold season to ensure creosote has not started to accumulate.
 

​The homes windows present a real danger to small children who, as they grow, like to climb and access every place they shouldn’t.  A fall from a window could prove fatal so making sure that the windows in your home are secure and childproof is naturally of the utmost importance.  Let’s look at some simple, low-cost options that are available today for childproofing windows:
 
To stop a child from opening a window, window latches are a good choice.  Just make sure that you choose a type of latch that will not only stop a child from being able to open the window but at the same time is easy for an adult to do so.
 
If you want to prevent a child from gaining any access to a window then window guards are a good option.  Window guards normally come with bars that extend across the window, preventing a child from reaching it.  While these devices should all comply with modern safety standards, it’s a good idea to check for yourself that bars are not spaced more than 4 inches apart which should ensure that a child does not trap their head or another body part in the device.
 
What if you want to be able to have the window open? In this case, window stops are the best choice.  These allow for the window to be open to a set width.  Make sure, however, that the set width is no more than 4 inches.
 
The way you position furniture will also help in preventing a child from reaching a window, be sure that furniture items cannot be used to climb on and access a window.  Another important thing to have in mind is that window screens are not childproof, if your windows are fitted with screens, they will still need to be fitted with childproof devices. 

​Tumble dryers are an essential appliance in many homes today and, like all appliances, care must be taken to ensure they are well maintained. One of the most important parts of the dryer in terms of safety is the dryer vent, here’s why:
 
Most of us are familiar with the way a dryer works, wet clothes are gently spun inside the drum. As this happens hot air is blown through them causing the water to evaporate. The airborne water vapor from the clothes then escapes from the dryer through the dryer vent. What are some important factors to consider when it comes to the dryer’s vent?
 
It may seem like an obvious statement but it's very important to check that the vent is actually connected to the dryer. If the dryer vent becomes disconnected for any reason, it may be difficult to notice because vents normally connect behind or under the dryer. The dryer vent is usually made with a bendable plastic or metal duct. Its flexibility is good for dryers kept in tight spaces, but this also makes it easy to crush or kink which can restrict airflow. This is a problem because a dryer can overheat if not properly vented. You would also see an accumulation of lint in the dryer which is highly flammable if it becomes trapped in the machine.  All of this can lead to the dryer bursting into flames.
 
So, from this very brief consideration, it's clear to see the importance of regularly checking the dryer vent to make sure it is connected and working the way it should.

​A greenhouse is important for many keen gardeners, however, for a greenhouse to function properly it benefits from regular maintenance and care. With that in mind here are a few helpful suggestions:
 
To start with, it’s advisable to keep your greenhouse locked when not in use, especially in households with young children. Many potentially dangerous items are often kept in a greenhouse, like gardening tools and pesticides, etc. so it's important to keep them out of harm's way.
 
A greenhouse is designed so that it can retain heat and light, creating the ideal environment for plant growth. One of the keys to maintaining this environment is good ventilation, otherwise, air will become stagnant and humid which will allow fungi to grow. A lack of ventilation will also cause the greenhouse to become too hot and this will kill plants.
 
In the winter months, it is usually necessary to provide extra heat in a greenhouse by way of an electric heater. To minimize the risk of fire it is very important to only use a heater that is intended for greenhouses. You also want to keep this in mind when using other electrical items by only using those that are suitable for outdoor use. Keep them unplugged when you are not using them.
 
It is not uncommon for the greenhouse to develop a leak from time to time. If you notice a leak, fix it immediately to prevent too much moisture from accumulating and to stop mold or other pathogens from growing. Doing this will also keep insects away.
 
It's clear to see the need for regular greenhouse maintenance so that it is a safe environment for plants to flourish.

​As October is now upon us and fall is here, it is time to start preparing for those cold winter months.  While it’s not the most pleasant thought, now is the best time to plan our home winterization.  So, how do we do this?  Here are a few suggestions:
 
Now is a good time to test your heating system, before its really needed.  One way you can do this is by turning up the thermostat.  How does it respond?  If it is very slow to respond, it may need some attention.  Another good idea is to change the air filter and, if you use propane or oil, have the tank filled and ready.  If you have a fireplace, it would be good to have it inspected and make sure it is in good working order, ready for use.
 
Have gutters and downspouts cleaned out so that you prevent any debris left in them from freezing, which can weigh down guttering and damage it.  This is also a good time to put a coat of sealer on decking and cover over outdoor furniture.   Drain sprinkler systems of all water and air so that they do not crack during cold temperatures.
 
One area which can create a lot of damage to a home during winter is the homes plumbing system.  Pipes lead to all areas of the home, including areas that are not occupied or heated such as the attic and crawlspace.  Use fiberglass insulation or foam to cover the pipes in these areas.  It's also a good idea to maintain the homes temperature at a high enough level so that pipes in these unheated areas don’t freeze either.
 
So, while the thought of freezing temperatures is not always pleasant to many of us, preparing your home now will ensure a warm and problem free winter at home. 

​If you are thinking about investing in an old home to renovate, its very important to do your research regarding what type of building materials were used years ago, as well as any hazards that are associated with them, so that you can prepare yourself for what you may encounter.  Asbestos is one such material that was used in construction up until the 1970’s. While you may know that it is a health hazard, you may not know why or what materials it is found in. 
 
Asbestos is a mineral fiber.  It was added to construction materials because of its ability to insulate and to provide fire resistance and also to give added strength.  Its clear to see why people thought it was a good idea to use, before too much was known of the dangers.  So, what are the dangers connected to asbestos?
 
The mineral fibers found in asbestos are extremely small and, when inhaled, tend to stay in the lungs for a long time.  Many of those that have been exposed to asbestos for prolonged periods of time have suffered from some very serious health problems such as Asbestosis which is a scarring of the lungs and a form of lung cancer known as Mesothelioma. 
 
How might a person become exposed to asbestos when fixing up an older home?  If asbestos is found in an old home the general handling of it, scraping and sanding or disturbing it in some other way can cause the small fibers to be released into the air, increasing your chance of breathing them in and having them stay in your lungs.  As we can see from our discussion, this is not something you want to be exposed to so what should you do if you are worried asbestos is in the home?  Have asbestos testing performed before you start to do any work on it.  This way if asbestos is found, you can make sure you hire someone who is qualified to safely remove it and dispose of it for you.