Jeff

About Jeff Walters

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So far Jeff Walters has created 40 blog entries.

What is a Lintel in Brickwork and Why Does it Matter?

By |2024-11-21T08:07:22-06:00November 21st, 2024|Construction|

A brickwork lintel may not be the most noticeable part of your home, but it plays a vital role in keeping your structure safe and sound. It supports the weight of the bricks and masonry above windows, doors, and other openings to prevent cracks and damage. When maintained properly, a brickwork lintel can protect your

Can You Fill Cracks in a Concrete Porch Yourself?

By |2024-11-06T14:15:57-06:00November 6th, 2024|Construction, Home Maintenance|

Cracks in the concrete on your porch can sneak up on you and turn a once-smooth surface into something unsightly and even hazardous. From weather shifts to settling, even minor cracks can have an impact. The good news is that many can be repaired, often independently. In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to

How to Identify and Remove Efflorescence

By |2024-10-24T09:56:16-05:00October 24th, 2024|Home Maintenance|

If you've ever noticed white, chalky patches on your basement walls or concrete, you're not alone. This common issue, called efflorescence, might seem concerning at first, but the good news is that it's easy to remove. More importantly, it’s a sign that moisture is sneaking into your walls—a problem that needs attention. In this post,

How Do Radon Fans Work?

By |2024-10-10T10:13:27-05:00October 10th, 2024|Radon|

Radon fans play a crucial role in protecting your home from dangerous radon gas. It's an invisible threat can seep in through cracks in the foundation and put your family’s health at risk, especially with long-term exposure. Fortunately, when professionally installed, radon fans help remove the gas from your home and vent it safely outdoors.

How Important is an Exhaust Fan for Your Basement?

By |2024-09-12T12:23:36-05:00September 12th, 2024|Ventilation|

Basements are notorious for being damp, musty, and poorly ventilated. Over time, this can lead to problems like mold growth, lingering odors, and even structural damage. One simple and effective solution is a basement exhaust fan – but how important are they really? More than just a way to freshen the air, it's key to

Can a Sealed Sump Lid Stop Radon From Spreading?

By |2024-08-29T11:44:14-05:00August 29th, 2024|Radon, Sump Pump|

Radon is a dangerous, invisible gas that can enter your home without any obvious signs. As one of the leading causes of lung cancer, it's a serious risk that every homeowner should be aware of. Your sump pump system, particularly if not properly sealed, can be a significant entry point for radon–but can a sealed

Normal Wear and Tear vs Trouble with Sump or Ejector Pumps

By |2024-08-15T09:32:33-05:00August 15th, 2024|Home Maintenance, Sump Pump|

When it comes to keeping your home dry and safe, sump and ejector pumps are meant to do the heavy lifting from behind the scenes. They quietly move excess water or waste away from the basement or crawlspace to avoid potential disasters. Like any of the hard-working systems in your home, sump pumps, and ejector

Why and How to Test Your Sump Pump Check Valve

By |2024-08-01T14:12:27-05:00August 1st, 2024|Sump Pump|

Why and How to Test Your Sump Pump Check Valve No homeowner wants to deal with the hassle of a flooded basement. Keeping your drainage and sump pump systems in top condition is the best way to avoid trouble, and that includes attention to small but crucial pieces – like the check valve. It's easy

Causes, Risks, and Addressing Cracks in the Basement Floor

By |2024-07-17T12:38:25-05:00July 17th, 2024|Buildings|

Finding cracks in your basement floor can feel like getting bad news from the doctor. They can range from very minor to extreme and typically hint at deeper issues that need attention. Pinpointing why these cracks appear and what they mean can make a big difference in how you handle them. Be aware, but don't

How Important is a Basement Escape Window or Ladder?

By |2024-06-20T08:59:21-05:00June 20th, 2024|Architecture, Home Inspections|

Did you know that having a safe and accessible escape route from your basement could be a lifesaver in an emergency? A basement escape system like a window or ladder is critical to home safety – but they're often overlooked. Beyond an escape route, these features come with several other benefits to a home. In