Do I need to worry about carbon monoxide in my home?
If you have a gas or oil furnace, dryer, refrigerator, water heater, space heater, fireplace, wood stove or gas range, then you need to be... More »
Where should I install carbon monoxide detectors in the home?
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The safest recommendation is to put one in every room, but most people are not willing to do this. The simplest rule is to mount one between the bedrooms and the rest of the house, but closer to the bedrooms. If there is more than one sleeping area, each should have its own alarm. In multi-level homes, install one on each level, and if possible have them interconnected so any one unit will sound the alarm throughout the house. The basement ceiling, near the steps, is a good location for extra protection.
What are the different types of smoke detectors?
Thermal smoke detectors detect heat only. Ionization smoke detectors respond particularly well to smoke caused by flaming fires. Photoelectric smoke... More »
How wide of a molding should I buy for my home?
It all depends on personal preference. As a rule, wider moldings make a room look smaller. You may want to avoid wide moldings unless you have large... More »
Where should I keep a fire extinguisher in my home?
Don’t mount it too close to where a fire is likely to occur. For example, don’t keep it next to the stove. A good place is at the top of the... More »
What products do you sell that will help childproof my home?
Child-resistant locks on cabinets, electrical outlet covers, additional smoke alarms and gun locks are some of the products you should... More »
What products do you sell that will help childproof my home?
Child resistant locks on cabinets, electrical outlet covers, additional smoke alarms and gun locks are some of the products you should... More »
Are there other options besides brick trim for trimming the doorway of my home?
There are a variety of other trim options that can add a lot of detail to the entranceway. Options include caps or headers over the door, pilasters,... More »
I’m considering a clay roof, but don’t care for the Spanish tile look on my home. Is there anything else available?
Yes. Clay and concrete tile manufacturers offer many options of style and color of... More »
I have an older home that does not have ground fault interrupters. Can I install these myself?
Yes, you can replace your regular outlets with ground fault interrupters. If you do not want to rewire the outlet, you can use a portable model... More »
Can I avoid scraping the peeling paint off the exterior of my home by using a pressure washer before painting?
It is not advisable. Pressure washers should only be used for removing dirt, mildew and algae that can lead to premature paint failure. Flaking... More »
How to Install a Smoke Detector Carbon Monoxide Detector
A combination smoke and carbon monoxide detector is one of the best ways to ensure your family’s safety. They save lives and they’re easy to... More »
Home Fire Safety
According to the National Fire Protection Association, each year approximately 400,000 house fires are reported. What’s most alarming is that... More »
Weatherproofing Your Home - Basements
In this second segment in our 3-part series, we’re going to focus on two key areas in the basement that are prone to leaking air. First, we’ll... More »
Weatherproofing Your Home - Attics
In this final segment of our 3-part home weatherization series, we’ll be up in the attic preparing to add a layer of insulation. But before we... More »
Weatherproofing Your Home - Windows and Doors
In this first segment of our 3-part home weatherization series, we’re going to focus on areas of the house most prone to air infiltration. We’re... More »
