Common HVAC Issues That Are More Prevalent in Older Homes

Older homes can come with unique charm and character that can make them very attractive to home buyers. From architecture to history, older homes can contribute to the beauty and style of the neighborhood. As with most things, however, age can take a toll on the structures and systems of a house. Older roofs, plumbing, flooring, and wiring could all require additional work and attention. HVAC issues are another common problem found in older homes.

In general, the average HVAC system should last around 20 years, according to many experts. As the equipment ages, it becomes less energy-efficient and will lose the power to circulate air properly. While some of the issues involved with older homes add to the character and charm of the house, HVAC problems can be a headache.

From poor air quality and airflow to outdated equipment, several areas of an older home's HVAC system may require attention. As a result, there are several common HVAC issues that are more prevalent in older homes. Let's take a closer look at some of the HVAC problems that can come with older houses.

1. Lack of Airflow

No matter if you have lived in the home for a month or 20 years, most homeowners never think about their ductwork. The duct system in your home plays a critical role in heating and cooling your home as it is the vehicle for moving the air. Ductwork that is in good working order allows your home to be heated and cooled consistently. Like HVAC systems, however, ductwork has a lifespan and will begin to age and degrade after about 15 years. With proper maintenance and cleaning, air ducts can last a while but will develop cracks and leaks over time.

Depending on the age and condition of the ductwork, older homes could experience poor airflow due to aging materials. Clogs, leaks, and cracks could all interfere with the airflow from the HVAC system and lead to heating and cooling issues throughout the home. Homeowners living in older homes with airflow issues should have technicians inspect the ductwork to check for issues causing inefficiencies and lack of airflow.

2. Poor Indoor Air Quality

Construction and efficiency standards have evolved since the time that many older homes were built. This means that newer technologies and innovations in new homes today have much cleaner air and better airflow. Modern air conditioners help reduce humidity and allergens in the air by condensing and conditioning the air coming into the house. Many older systems just blow cool air and don't have the capabilities that the systems today have. As a result, many older homes have poor air quality.

Older systems allow more unfiltered outdoor air inside and circulate more pollen, dust, and other pollutants throughout the home. In addition, older ductwork can also harbor dust, dirt, allergens, and micro-organisms that spread through the home each time the air comes on. It will be important to check and change the air filters regularly in your older home to help mitigate some of these issues. A professional HVAC technician can also check the air quality in your older home and help you find solutions for any problems.

3. Outdated Thermostats

Another problem that older homes usually have is an outdated thermostat. Typically older thermostats have basic controls for heat, air, on, and off. These thermostats can contribute to frequent cycling, inefficient operation, and wear and tear on the HVAC system. Modern technology in programmable and smart thermostats allows for better control of settings and more reliable system performance. Newer thermostats can maximize energy efficiency.

Older houses can come with charm and history that many newer homes don't have. Along with the cool features and antique architecture, however, HVAC issues can often plague older houses. With some help from HVAC professionals, you can ensure that your home has clean, comfortable air year-round.

How is Foundation Repair Work Done in Colorado?

Foundation forms the basis and strength of any suitable construction work and hence its importance. But as it is for most things man-made, the foundation might come out faulty with time. 

Although the root causes might turn out to be either natural or man-made, the effect tends to lead to the same result, which is a failure of the building and, eventually, its collapse. 

With an estimate of 25%, homeowners in the U.S are likely to suffer foundation and structural damages in their lifetimes, with 5% enduring significant problems.

This article will detail signs of foundation problems, causes of foundation problems, the average cost of foundation repair, primary foundation repair methods, and preventions specifically in Colorado. Our company specializes in foundation repair Denver Colorado. Visit our website at https://denverfoundationrepairspecialists.com/

Signs of Foundation Problems:

The major signs of foundation problems can be categorized into two significant warning signs, the exterior and the interior.

Interior Warning Signs:

These are warning signs visible to the owner and can be observed without sophisticated equipment or gadgets. Some common interior warning signs are:

• Cracks in floor
• Bulginess on the floor
• Misalignments in the doors and windows
• Cracks in sheetrock

Exterior Warning Signs:

These signs can hardly be observed by mere eyes. They are often observed by the use of equipment and gadget invented for such purposes. Some of the standard exterior signs are:

• Displacement in moldings
• Cracks in bricks
• Crack/Brokenness in the foundation
• Rotation of walls
• Separation around doors and windows

Are Foundation Problems Common in Colorado?

Foundation problems are becoming more common in Colorado, most rampantly in the Denver area, and these facts can be attributed to many factors.

Causes of Foundation Problems:

Foundation problems are caused by several natural and man-made factors. The reason for the vast majority of damage is usually water or natural disasters.

Some of the significant causes of foundation in Colorado, as observed over the years, can be categorized into natural and unnatural causes; Some natural causes include: earthquake compromised structures, flood compromised structures, extreme seasonal changes, storm compromised structures, and drought compromised structures

While some unnatural causes are expansive clay, plumbing leak beneath a home, improperly compacted fill soils, poor drainage.

Cost of Foundation Problems:

Not considering the actual cost of foundation problems in the sense that the building might be lost or need to be demolished, many foundation problems might need urgent repairs, which accounts for a lot of money. 

Considering the state of Colorado, the average cost of foundation repair work depends on the amount of damaged area, accessibility to the damaged area, and the method of repair

According to manta.com, after putting all these factors into consideration, the average cost for an average foundation repair job in the city of Colorado is roughly between the price range of 3,000 U. S dollars to 5,000 U. S dollars and are dependent on the following factors:

• 5.00 to 9.00 U.S dollars per square foot material costs.
• Average labor costs to repair house foundations in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
• Average costs for materials and equipment for foundation repair in Colorado Springs.
• All project costs (surface preparation, components, and machinery) and cleanup fees.

Foundation Repair Methods:

• Piering and Underpinning

Piering, also called hydraulic jacking, is a repair method where steel posts are driven through the unstable soil. The hydraulic jack is used to raise and stabilize the foundation’s concrete slabs affected by the change in the underlying soil. 

The slabs must be raised carefully to avoid more unnecessary damage. Piers used for foundation repairs can be sub-divided into five different types, based on their shape and structure:

Helical Steel Piers: These types of piers are also called anchors. These piers are threaded into the ground to a predetermined load capacity, and the weight of the structure is transferred from the soil to the piers. 

Helical steel piers are used when conditions prevent the use of other types of piers. Helical piers are ideally used for repairing lightweights’ concrete slabs and beam foundations. They can also be used to secure new foundations.

Steel Piers: Steel piers are permanent foundation repairs solutions. They are strong and can be driven as far as 100 feet below the ground. Steel piers provide increased stability to foundations.

Pressed Concrete Piers: Pressed concrete piers are durable foundation piers driven as deep as 12ft below the ground into the foundation to achieve stability. They are used for interior, and exterior repairs and are often installed to beam houses.

Poured Concrete Piers: Poured Concrete Piers are piers driven deep, as far as 10 feet below the ground. An average of 7 to 10 days is required for a poured concrete pier to be successfully installed. Poured concrete piers make use of precast segments at installation.

Belled Concrete Piers: The bottom of the pier of a belled concrete pier has a bell shape foot designed to provide a comprehensive support area for the pier.

• Leveling

Leveling is a method used to lift sinking or uneven concrete, also called mud jacking. Slab foundations sink when the soil beneath them shifts or collapses, and it leaves space below. The concrete is then lifted by drilling 2 holes through the concrete foundation and into the space below. A solution of natural elements, soil, and cement is injected into the space, thereby filling it. As the solution expands, the slab is then raised back to place.  

• Crack repair

Cracks in foundations are repaired by patching the cracks and covering them with a waterproof masonry sealer. Some commonly used crack sealers are vinyl concrete, epoxies, hydraulic cement, silicone, and polyurethane. The type of crack sealer used is dependent on the severity of the crack.

Choosing the Correct Method for Foundation Repairs:

The cause of the distress must be determined before choosing the best repair method. Moldings and trim boards, mortar joints in bricks veneer, and low windows are often common signs of taking note of as distress signals. It is essential to choose not only the best but most efficient method of foundation repair method.

Conclusion:

Foundation repair work is an essential job in Colorado today as the factors causing foundation problems are becoming more rampant today. Early detection of the signs of foundation problems has proven to be life-savers in different circumstances. 

It is important to note that foundation problems usually occur over long periods and are not instantaneous, so there are few emergency cases. There are signals around your building that may or may not be foundation problems, but it’ll never kill to do routine checks. 

6 Key Phases Of The Residential Design Process

Are you in the planning stages of building your dream home? If so, you need to hire an architect to turn your dream into a reality. But when working with an architect, you'll realize they often use complicated terms during the process of building your residential home. And if you're unfamiliar with the terminologies, it becomes tough to follow the conversations, leaving you hanging. This is the last thing you want to experience because it becomes hard to follow what's going on.

Fortunately, you don't need to learn all the technical vocabulary. You can start by understanding these key phases of the residential design process:

1. Pre-Design 

This is the first stage during the design process and is also referred to as the programming phase. During this phase, the architect will interact with you to know your needs, lifestyle, and personality. This interaction also helps bring up several essential details into the light such as:

• The space that's enough for your present and future needs
• How the space should be arranged, organized, and utilized
• Site analysis, which entails lead testing, asbestos testing, dealing with existing buildings, and investigating any dangerous material. This also helps get a clearer picture of how the site interconnects to the people, climate, regulations, and surrounding area, which might affect the project.
• Code or zoning analysis to know the accepted size and use of the structure to be built as certain code issues might affect the project. This is done by talking to city planning employees and going over the Zoning Summary.

Having all these in mind before even starting your construction project helps speed up the process and ensure both parties are on the same page regarding the size and terms. If you both agree, go ahead and sign a contract hiring the architect for their services. 

2. Schematic Design

This step is where the architectural company starts creating a building design concept after examining your wishes. The schematic design phase isn't so comprehensive but rather conceptual and accounts for around 15% of the architect's fees and total work. At this stage, the architectural design team begins to explore design concepts to get a general feel and look of the project. They also consult you to discuss any specific requirements and do exhaustive research to assess your property.

At this phase, the architect also finalizes their initial research on the local regulations and compliance. With this in mind, they can confidently determine the relationship between every space, location, and project size. Everything done at this step aims to come up with the size and shape of the building and some basic design. Other details that'll be delivered at this step include:

• Building cross-section 
• Floor plans of every level with plumbing fixtures and generic openings 
• Typical wall section

Upon your approval, the architectural team will proceed to the next phase. 

3. Design Development Phase

It accounts for about 20% of an architect's fees and total work, which entails them working together with you to choose products such as fixtures, doors, windows, materials, and appliances, as well as interior finishes. Unlike with the schematic design, the architect will have a more updated plan with more information and greater precision when it comes to cost. This is done to give you more accurate estimates at the early design stages. 

4. Construction Documents Phase

During this phase, the architect is expected to be done with specifications and drawings, referred to as Construction Documents. It accounts for approximately 40% of an architect's work and fees, but this percentage differs from one project to another. The Construction Document phase entails preparing blueprint notes or drawings. In addition, architects and engineers finalize the technical specifications needed for construction, bidding, and applying for a permit. Examples of engineering discussed include electrical, structural, energy calculations, gas, and plumbing.  

The Construction Documents will be handed over to a contractor to be given a quote on how much the project will cost.

5. Bidding 

This phase only takes up a small percentage of the architect's fees and work, usually around 5%. Bidding involves going through different bids from various contractors hoping to get the construction project. It's best to assess these different bids alongside your architect because they can provide you with a list of approved contractors.

The architect will also help you examine the different contractor bids to compare the different costs better. They also have the experience and skill to gauge whether a contractor went through the blueprint as this is vital to ensure they hand over an accurate bid. In addition, the architect will help you issue formal clarifications to the illustrations and answer any question asked by a contractor.

6. Construction Administration 

It's the final phase when designing a residential property, and the architect's duty is now project management rather than creative design. The architect won't be physically present at the construction site at all times. However, they'll regularly pass by, and this could be monthly or weekly to ensure that the construction is being done with your design wishes in mind. They also come by whenever the contractors are considering changing the design, and the architect consults you to ensure you accept such alterations.

At this phase, the architect will confirm the billing the contractor is sending you to ensure they aren't overcharging you for their services. They're also tasked with other responsibilities such as solving any issue that arises during construction and confirming the contractor is using the correct material. Ideally, the contractor and architect should work together to solve any unforeseen issue that arises during construction. This will ensure your project runs smoothly and won't exceed the projected construction timeline.

Takeaway

Having a conversation with an architect during the construction of your residential home can become quite intimidating due to the complex terms they use. As a result, you'll mostly find yourself confused. The best way to prevent this would be to familiarize yourself with the key phases followed during the residential design process. If you’re unfamiliar with these, this guide has enlightened you to better understand what to expect during the design process.

Lighting Potions: How to Effectively Choose Lighting Fixtures for Your Home

Photo by Skye Studios on Unsplash

Lighting is one of the most important basic features in a home when it comes to interior design. Excellent lighting can make a home’s atmosphere functional and appealing. However, most DIY designers often disregard its value. 

No matter how exquisitely accessorized, organized, and furnished a home is - it won’t be a fully well-decorated house unless you choose the correct lighting. Thus, proper lighting is a must to fully maximize your experience in your new home. If you want to learn more about how to choose good lighting for your home, read on below!

Types of Lighting 

Most lighting has a function, and it’s usually divided into three main classifications: task, ambient, and accent lighting. 

• Task - This type of lighting helps you finish, as the name implies, your tasks, e.g., chopping ingredients, folding laundry, reading a book, painting, etc. 
• Ambient - sets the mood of the room. It has a warm and soothing glow. This type of lighting can consist of chandeliers, pendant lights, or track lighting, etc. 
• Accent - These lightings are used to feature a decorative piece in the house. These are also used in museums to highlight some paintings or art pieces. It can also be used as floor lights to show off your favorite plant in the house.  

Types of Light Bulbs

Types of lighting are different from the types of light bulbs; these two go hand-in-hand to maximize the light in your home. Here are three main classes of light bulbs:

LED 

These bulbs cost more than incandescents, but it’s way more energy-saving and cost-efficient, and it can last much longer. It can be used in any way - outdoor, indoor, accent, ambient, or task lighting. 

If you’re looking for LED lighting fixtures, consider purchasing from Vonn Lighting. They have a variety of modern to traditional state-of-the-art designs and free shipping! You can buy a mixture of outdoor and indoor lighting here in Vonn.

Incandescent 

Incandescent bulbs are among the most common bulbs you’ll see on the market; they’re in most appliances, e.g., microwave, fridge, etc. Unfortunately, they aren’t as long-lasting as LED bulbs, and they consume more energy. Luckily, they cost less than LED bulbs.

Halogen

Halogen is both budget-friendly and energy-efficient! It has a warm glow that’s almost similar to incandescent bulbs, and you can place it indoors or outdoors. However, they aren’t as durable.

Lighting Fixture Styles

Each type of lighting fixture has a different function in the look and performance of a space. 

• Floor lamps - are considered task lighting since they are placed chiefly near a chair to read a book or beside a home office. 
• Hanging lights  - It adds an exquisite look to a room, and it’s primarily used in living rooms, dining rooms, or kitchens. Most products are either pendant lights or chandeliers. 
• Cabinet lights - are usually used below kitchen cabinets to make meal preparations more manageable and safer using task light.
• Desk lamps - Another form of task lighting is desk lamps. It is placed on a desk to make it easier to read, study, or work. The head can be easily adjustable at any angle that makes you comfortable.
• Wall sconces - You can place them on each side of your bed or light a dim hallway. It can be considered ambient or task lighting.

Lighting for Each Space

• Living Room - The lighting can be layered using ambient and task lighting; so that the mood is set in a room where people relax, and you can read or watch and unwind.
• Bedroom - A bedroom is where one rests, so the color temperature of the light should be warm to encourage rest.
• Kitchen - LED bulbs would be best to use in this area. Also, consider incorporating dimmable lights to set the proper mood when cooking and pendant lighting and under the cabinet lighting. 

Takeaway

Always remember that lighting can either generate or destroy the ambiance in the room. It is the main element that gives a well-decorated room that unique spice! If you’re unsure how to incorporate the different styles to create a mood in the room, consider hiring a lighting designer to relieve you of your troubles.

Looking for the Best Locksmiths in Portsmouth, Hampshire? Read This:

There are various reasons why you might require the services of a locksmith. Almost everyone will experience a lock issue at some point, whether it's inside their home, business, or even the front door. If you have a lock problem, you may be tempted to fix it yourself, but it is best to seek expert help from a locksmith to avoid more damage.

Residential, commercial, and automotive locksmiths are skilled specialists who install, adjust, and repair locks in homes, businesses, and automobiles. Locksmiths make copies of locking keys, bypass locks with authorization, and modify lock combinations.

If you live in Portsmouth, Hampshire finding a great locksmith can be what stands between you and a cold night especially during the winter. They can also be the reason you are in danger if you randomly hire without verifying one. For tips on how to successfully find the best locksmiths in Portsmouth then keep reading.

Before you start having issues with your locks, it is important to do your research and have the contact of more than one credible company. This will help you avoid hiring one in an emergency and causing you to overlook some security measures.

It is clear that danger is lurking everywhere, knowing this is the first step to guarding and protecting your home. Anyone can be a victim but you can reduce your chances of falling victim to danger by following the tips listed below.

Tips on How to Find the Best Locksmith

If you have any issue involving locks, you should be looking out for a trustworthy, skilled and professional locksmith company to work with. The fact is locksmiths can have access to your home and this can be dangerous.

If you’re looking to employ the services of the best locksmith you can find in Portsmouth, then the following tips will be of great use to you. 

Be Clear about the Services You Want from the Locksmith

There are various services you can get from your local locksmith and to avoid any form of confusion it is important to clarify the services you require beforehand. The services you can get from your local locksmith include:

• Repairing locks
• Duplicating keys
• Changing locks
• Supply, installation, and maintenance of high security commercial locks
• Installation of mechanical or electronic locks 

There are so many other services you can get from your local locksmith services. You can check out this video to learn more about the services offered by locksmiths.

Get a Referral

An effective method of getting a trustworthy locksmith is through referral. Getting a company this way can guarantee that they are legit. This can serve as an extra security measure as they will be reluctant to try anything shady.

Another benefit of going through this method is that you get to see their work first hand. Nobody wants to refer someone with a bad track record; therefore this can serve as a guarantee that you will be getting a great service.

Request to See Necessary Documents

Having a certified locksmith matters a lot especially when it’s your first time experiencing any problem with your lock. No matter how cautious you are, eventually you will experience some issue with your lock.

Using a certified locksmith means you can expect credibility and accountability if anything goes wrong. In Portsmouth, locksmiths with the right documentations tend to have the most progressive instruments.

This is another benefit of using a certified locksmith. In Portsmouth, it is normal to find locksmiths without certifications. Usually they don’t have up to date apparatus, and it is most likely for them to cheat you after providing substandard services.

Trust Your Gut

Sometimes a locksmith can fulfill all the requirements you set, like having a great referral, complete license and documentation but you still feel weird about it. In situations like this, it is important to trust your instincts, and keep searching for another locksmith that you feel satisfied and more comfortable around.

Know Which Locksmith Service Operates 24/7

This is very important for you as a home owner. The fact is lock emergency knows no time, this means that you can get locked out of your home at any time of the day. To be on the safe side, it is important to have a locksmith that will be available if such scenario occurs.

Red Flags to Observe When Hiring a Locksmith

Here are some red flags that can help you detect that a locksmith is not reputable:

1. When the prices are too good to be true: Often times when you see prices that seem too cheap, or a lot of discount, it is usually a scam. You might even end up getting poor services and usually will have to spend more than your budget to make up for it.
2. Bad reviews: the reputation of any locksmith is important. When a locksmith company is getting bad reviews online, there is a big chance that company will not do a good job. Therefore, when you come across a company with bad reviews, it is best to avoid them.
3. Lack of professional certifications: As shown earlier, you can see that having professional certifications can go a long way in proving a locksmith’s credibility. Every professional locksmith should have certifications.
4. No estimate for repair work: before beginning any repair work, a professional should provide an estimate of the overall cost. This would be a guide for you to know how much you are expecting to pay.

Conclusion

Locksmiths are really important to homeowners as one of the major issues that occur in the home is related to locks. Doors and locks are the primary source of security in the home and needs to be properly looked after.

Having a locksmith look at your locks is more than just a job; it is giving a total stranger access to your home. This can save or cause you a lot of troubles. There has been a lot of news going around about crimes committed in various homes and majority starts with a locksmith.

Due to the access they have to these homes they have the chance to commit crimes and get away with it. Therefore it is important to pay attention to the company you give access to your home.