Posts

Maintenance (Third Week of October)

Image
  Your comfort! Your home working at its best! Your money in your pocket! Your Ounce Of Prevention:  Review insurance policies to ensure adequate coverage for the home and its contents Update your home inventory to reflect any new acquisitions or changes Inspect the home for signs of mold and mildew and address any issues promptly Use dehumidifiers in high-humidity areas such as bathrooms and basements Clean and store outdoor furniture and cushions to protect them from the elements Secure or store other outdoor items that could be damaged by weather Check decks and fences for any needed repairs or refinishing Consider applying a protective sealant before the winter months Review and replenish emergency supplies including non-perishable food, water, batteries, and first aid items Ensure that all family members are familiar with emergency procedures and the location of supplies If you have a septic system, schedule a professional inspection of the system and pump out the tank if...

The Ins and Outs of Attic Insulation: Florida Homebuyers Are Savvy (Some Things They May Not Know)

Image
When you walk through a house, the ceiling overhead often feels invisible. Yet hidden above is one of the most critical systems governing comfort, energy efficiency, and the health of the home: the attic insulation. We often see how attic insulation—or lack thereof—can make or break both home performance and buyer confidence. In Florida’s climate, attic insulation plays an especially pivotal role. In this article, we’ll explain what attic insulation actually is, why homes need it, the different types used (and how effective each is), how insulation considerations influence the inspection process, and ultimately how knowing this gives a prospective home buyer (or current homeowner) a real advantage in Florida. Why Is Attic Insulation All That  Important? At its core, insulation is any material placed in a building’s envelope to slow down the transfer of heat (or cold). Insulation does not “block” heat entirely, but resists it. In U.S. building science, we use the term R-value to qua...