GUIDE
Local businesses o er home improvement tips
2022 REAL ESTATE EDITION
HOME IMPROVEMENT AND MAINTENANCE
EMPHASIZING ENERGY EFFICIENCY While the U.S. Department of Energy recommends a professional assessment of a home’s energy e ciency, it is also possible for homeowners to perform one on their own. Here is a list of areas to check when assessing a home’s energy usage.
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AIR LEAKS Air leaks can save up to 20% on energy per year if addressed. In addition to leaking windows and doors, check for leaks on baseboards or where di erent building materials meet. Leaks can be sealed or plugged with caulk or weather stripping. LIGHTING When replacing bulbs, residents can consider LEDS as well as energy- saving incandescent bulbs. Electric utilities may o er rebates for purchasing energy-e cient lamps. INSULATION Depending on building ages, insulation may not be up to standard. Checking attics, walls near outlets and basements can ensure heat losses are kept to a minimum. Wall insulation may require a thermographic evaluation. APPLIANCES Energy use for appliances can be estimated using the energy guide label on the appliance itself or by using an electricity usage monitor. Unplugging appliances in between uses can keep them from drawing unused electricity. HEATING AND COOLING The U.S. Department of Energy recommends upgrading systems older than 15 years. Checking ductwork for dirt streaks can reveal air leaks, which can be sealed.
ASK A LANDSCAPER
Gardens for Texas co-owners Jamie Klingenberg and Sandra Hutchens answered questions for Community Impact Newspaper about yard maintenance.
watering when it is very hot. Projects can often be completed in phases. During the heavy heat season, hard-scape components can be installed followed by plants once the cooler weather arrives. WHAT IS THE BEST TIME OF DAY IN THE SUMMER TO GET LANDSCAPING TASKS DONE? For homeowners, before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m. [is best]. Watering at this time of day is important since it decreases the amount of evaporation loss and hydrates plants for a longer period.
WHAT ARE YOUR TOP TIPS TO KEEP YARDS LOOKING NICE AND HEALTHY IN THE HEAT? First of all, plan early. For the peak spring season, it is wise to start planning during the winter. Then get on the installation schedule before the summer heat occurs. This strategy will allow time for new plants to get established before the stress of heavy heat. If unavoidable, a new landscape installation during summer months needs more frequent watering, then tapering o as the weather cools. New turf needs daily
Sandra Hutchens (left), Jamie Klingenberg (right) Owners Gardens for Texas 6510 Abrams Road, Dallas 469-330-9987 www.gardensfortexas.com
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SOURCE: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER
MAINTAINING YOUR HOME The National Association of Home Builders o ers routine home maintenance tips for homeowners looking to maintain their homes’ value and ensure their
EXTERIOR
INTERIOR
1 Roofs should be inspected by a quali ed roofer every three years, and skylights should be inspected so leaks do not develop. 2 Ensure downspouts and gutters do not get clogged with leaves and other debris. 3 Inspect siding each year to see if it needs repainting, and trim shrubs away so they do not touch the siding. 4 Check for split or cracked caulking on windows and doors annually, and replace the caulk as necessary. 5 Moving parts of garage doors need to be oiled once every three months.
6 Air lters require regular replacement, generally once every three months. 7 Regularly check security alarms and circuit breakers . Check batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. 8 Clean each faucet’s aerator every three to four months. Maintain garbage disposals by running cold water through them. 9 Masonry walls can develop a white powder that can be scrubbed o with water and a sti brush. 10 Hardwood oors without polyurethane need to be waxed with a liquid or paste “spirit” wax. Use emulsion wax on vinyl.
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safety. Find other useful homeownership tips at www.nahb.org.
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SOURCE: NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF HOME BUILDERS COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER
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LAKE HIGHLANDS LAKEWOOD EDITION • JULY 2022
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