home maintenance

What Are Roof Trusses and How Do They Show Wear?

By |2025-10-02T14:33:47-05:00September 26th, 2025|Architecture, Roof|

The roof of a home does more than just keep out the rain. It protects the structure, keeps energy costs in check, and helps maintain the home’s value. At the center of this system are roof trusses. These hidden but essential components form the framework that supports your roof. For buyers and homeowners in the

Does Mold Always Have a Smell? Subtle Signs to Watch For

By |2025-09-12T15:37:14-05:00September 12th, 2025|Mold|

When most people think of mold, they picture a musty smell or see greenish-black spots on the wall. But here's the problem: not all mold smells, and not all mold is visible. That means it can hide in your home without any obvious warning signs. So how do you know if mold is growing behind

Ionization vs Photoelectric Smoke Alarms Explained Simply

By |2025-09-03T14:55:11-05:00September 3rd, 2025|Fire Safety|

This guide breaks down ionization vs photoelectric smoke alarms so you know how each type of alarm works, where it should be placed, what the limits are, and why many experts recommend using both. When it comes to home safety, smoke alarms are one of the most overlooked yet most important devices you can install.

How Long Do Sump Pumps Last? Common Signs of Wear to Note

By |2025-08-08T12:23:28-05:00August 8th, 2025|Home Maintenance|

A sump pump is one of the most important pieces of equipment for homes with basements or crawlspaces. It prevents water buildup, protects your foundation, and helps control moisture levels that can lead to mold or structural issues. But sump pumps don’t last forever: if you’re not sure how old yours is or how long

The Homeowner’s Glossary of Key Electricity Terms

By |2025-07-25T08:30:12-05:00July 22nd, 2025|Electrical|

Electricity powers nearly everything in your home, yet most homeowners only start paying attention when something stops working or sparks fly. You don’t need to be an expert, but a basic understanding of key home electricity terms can go a long way. It can help you ask the right questions during a home inspection, spot

Defects that Inspectors Look for in a Home’s Sewer Line

By |2025-07-02T15:09:39-05:00July 2nd, 2025|Sewer Scope|

When you’re buying a home, the sewer line probably isn’t the first thing you think about. It’s buried underground and out of sight, quietly doing its job to carry waste away from the property. But hidden problems in a sewer line can cause major headaches. A damaged or aging sewer line can lead to clogs,

What is Concrete Efflorescence? Causes and Fixes

By |2025-06-13T14:53:39-05:00June 13th, 2025|Exterior, Home Maintenance|

If you have ever noticed white, chalky stains on your basement walls, garage floor, or concrete patio, you have likely seen concrete efflorescence. Many homeowners worry this is a sign of serious damage or mold, but that is not always the case. So, what is concrete efflorescence? In this guide, we will explain what it

7 Signs of Issues With the Insulation in an Attic

By |2025-05-30T15:33:55-05:00May 21st, 2025|Insulation|

Insulation in an attic plays a bigger role in your home’s comfort and condition than most people realize. It helps regulate temperature, keeps moisture in check, and improves energy efficiency. But when insulation wears down, gets wet, or isn’t installed properly, it can quietly lead to higher bills, hidden damage, and indoor air quality concerns.

When Your House Smells Musty But You See No Mold

By |2025-05-09T11:58:50-05:00May 9th, 2025|Home Maintenance, Mold|

You walk in the door and something's… off. Your house smells damp, earthy, and musty, but you can’t find any visible mold. You’re not crazy or imagining the smell of wet socks, and you’re not alone. The occurrence isn’t uncommon, and while it might seem harmless since there’s no obvious mold, it could also be

Electrical Panel Defects to Spot & Address ASAP

By |2025-03-28T15:12:44-05:00March 28th, 2025|Electrical|

If you’re buying or selling a home (or just maintaining yours) the electrical panel matters more than you might think. While it often sits out of sight and out of mind, it box plays a major part in keeping the home powered and safe. Like almost anything else in a house, things can go wrong...electrical