Free Do It Yourself Air Leak test

February 21st, 2010

If you are considering a energy saving project without going through the blower door test you can perform a free DIY air leak test to help you determine where the biggest leaks in your home are coming from.

Close all your doors and windows, the turn on all the exhaust fans (furnace, bathroom, kitchen, etc.). Hold a candle or incense stick near different areas in your home where hidden drafts may occur. Before you start make sure that the flame or the tip of the incense does not get near curtains or furnishings. 

You’ll want to check around doors, window frames and near electrical outlets. By using this inexpensive method of testing for air infiltration you can start with the project that will have the most impact.

Share

New Lead Paint Law Effective April 2010

February 21st, 2010

Starting in April 2010 contractors and remodelers are required to test paint for lead on any projects that they will be working on that are older than 1978 when lead paint was banned. Your contractor or remodeler will need to be licensed by the EPA. The EPA is scrambling to get applications processed and approved so delays of up to 90 days are not uncommon. If you have a project scheduled with a home remodeler and your project or home has not been updated since 1978 check with your remodeler to see if they have registered with the EPA. The Epa requires contractors to be certified in lead-safe work practices and training providers to be accredited by EPA. If they have not heard about the information you may want to pass this along: The application fee is $300 and the registration is good for 5 years. Contractors and remodelers can apply online www.epa.gov/oppt/lead/pubs/toolkits.htm   This website contains tons of information about lead in paint for contractors and home remodelers.

Share

Welcome to Resourceful Remodeler Blog

January 25th, 2010

Home remodeling resources for the do it yourselfer. Don’t ignore those nagging little projects, take care of little repairs before they turn into major headaches. Everyone who owns a home has a very long to do list of repair that need to be done around the house. Most of us find it difficult to get started on that long list but once you get started your confidence builds and you are on your way to remodeling your home. We hope to show some of the basic concepts to fix the easy stuff and help you save money by doing it yourself. Some of the easiest projects are home maintenance which can be done with little skill and little money.

Share