Handyman Services Plymouth, Ann Arbor, South East Michigan – Handyman Services for Seniors: Remodelers and medical community join forces to help the "Aging in Place" community
My husband and I are concerned about having my mother continue living in her home. She is getting older and we worry about her safety, (slipping and falls, getting up the stairs, etc.). We believe she is not ready for assisted living or nursing home. She is very independent and wants to stay in her home. Are there any alternatives?
- Denice S. Whitmore Lake.
I completely understand your concern, and you are not alone with wanting to keep your parents safely in their home rather than moving them to an assisted living or nursing home. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 2004 (U.S . Interim Projections by Age, Sex, Race, and Hispanic Origin), the 65 and over population is expected to increase from approximately 35 million in 2000 to 55 million in 2020! The good news is there has been an extensive amount of time and energy devoted to helping this population remain in their homes.
Eventually all of us will be touched by someone we love in the same position. Many homes are being designed and retrofitted to help the “Aging in Place” population, and the caregivers, occupational/physical therapists and remodelers have joined together to solve this need. Many new products and services have been developed that would help your mother to remain in her home. Here are a few examples:
-Extremely durable fasteners are available at www.wingits.com to help ensure that grab bars and stair railings are strong enough to support the weight of a person holding onto them.
-Automatic interior door openers, raised dishwashers, pull-out cabinets, retrofitting homes with zero steps, new inventions to widen some doorways without tearing out the drywall (saving a fortune) and replacing tubs with walk in showers are other ways to help improve someone’s ability to “age in place” in their own home.
There are many organizations which can assist you with home designs, upgrades and suggestions. One of the best programs is known as CAPS, or Certified Aging in Place Specialist. They can offer information and suggestions to help your mother remain safe with her mobility and ambulatory considerations. I am currently taking the certification class and am confident this program will solve many Aging in Place constraints. To locate a specialist in your area go to www.bragannarbor.com/nh_Designations_and_Certifications.cfm .
Other organizations include Area Agencies on Aging - which are funded from the Older Americans Act Title IIID - and in-home services for frail elderly. A few of the services included are home maintenance and alterations, and minor chores for the elderly. Please visit http://n4a.org/ for more information. You can also contact Medicare/Medicaid to find out if medical equipment and supplies are covered. There is also a program for weatherization assistance for elderly at http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/weatherization/.
Millions of Americans are living longer, and understanding their desires to stay in their home will help so many of our loved ones continue to have happy and fruitful lives. The best of luck to you!
Keith Paul is a State of Michigan Licensed Builder. He serves as president and founding member of HandyPro Handyman Service and nationally franchised HandyPro International. Listen to Paul every Saturday at 11:00am on "It's Your Home, Let's Talk About It" WAAM Talk 1600AM. E-mail questions or comments to kpaul@handypro.com.
Handyman Service, Handyman Services, Facility maintenance, Commercial Handyman, handyman repair services, find a handyman, handyman home improvement, handyman business, home maintenance service, handyman referral, Carpentry, Plaster, Drywall, Acoustic Ceilings, Grout tub, fix leaky faucet, home warranty/maintenance, paint home, caulk bathtub, replace locks, garage doors, cabinets, countertops, fix running toilet, repair squeaky door, install molding, security services, stained glass, door repair/install, drywall repair, painting, kitchen, insulation, concrete, masonry, repair gutters, remove wallpaper, replace ceiling fan, caulk awning, siding repair, install shelves, organizers, ceramic tile, window well covers, replace bathroom fan, draperies, blinds, shades, glass, mirrors, deck cleaning and sealing, and much more…just ask!
Southeast Michigan, Oakland, Wayne, Washtenaw Counties, Allen Park, Ann Arbor, Belleville, Beverly Hills, Birmingham, Brownstown, Canton, Detroit, Dearborn, Farmington Hills, Flat Rock, Garden City, Livonia, Northville, Novi, Plymouth, Riverview, Rochester, Royal Oak, Southfield, Trenton, Troy, Walled Lake, West Bloomfield, Westland, Ypsilanti and neighboring cities and communities.
48101, 48103, 48105, 48108, 48009, 48134, 48174, 48187, 48201, 48203, 48205, 48208, 48210, 48212, 48213, 48215, 48217, 48220, 48223, 48225, 48120, 48124, 48334, 48336, 48134, 48150, 48154, 48168, 48375, 48170, 48192, 48306. 48309, 48073, 48033, 48075, 48084, 48390, 48322, 48324, 48186, 48198
Handyman Services: Drywall Repair Tips
Handyman services in Southeast Michigan are the ones to call when you need small home repairs like drywall and paint. Handyman services are capable of handling the homeowner’s to-do list and they can easily move from one job to the next, often completing your repairs in one day. Here are some drywall repair tips for the do-it-yourself homeowner:
Drywall repair and installation is much easier when you have the right tools for the job. Using inferior drywall tools will result in unsatisfactory work. Drywall repair, installation and finishing takes time and effort; begin with the correct tools to do the job right.
You do not have to buy professional tools like the combination mud and tape dispensers unless you are planning to go into the drywall installation business. On the other hand, you should choose quality tools. Here are the basic tools the do-it-yourselfer needs for repairing or installing drywall:
Mud Pan – Choose a stainless steel pan that won’t rust; do not use the plastic pan with the metal strip which tends to rust.
Drywall Knife – Choose a 4 – 4-1/2 inch steel knife; one with a good quality name that won’t rust. This is the one to use with taping because it fits into the joints where two beveled edges of drywall meet, making it easier to imbed the tape.
Finishing Knife – Choose a good quality, 10” steel knife for the finishing coat to feather out the edges of the seam.
Corner Tool – Some people prefer the plastic but there are good quality steel corner tools too.
Other tools include a tape measure, T-Square, utility knife, drywall saw and a cordless drill/driver.
There are some basic supplies you will need as well:
Tape – Professionals prefer the paper tape; some homeowners like the mesh tape. Paper tape is much easier to cover and the best choice for taping seams.
Mud – All Purpose Joint Compound is the easiest to use and the least expensive. It comes in two different kinds; the one in the green bucket is the best. You can also buy the powder and mix it, but it hardens quickly and is only recommended for professional use.
Drywall Screws – Do not substitute a different type of screw; be sure to use drywall screws.
Once the drywall repair is done and the mud is dry you will need to sand it. Either use sandpaper or drywall sanding screen. Both come in various grit count for early sanding and final, finish sanding.
Even the do-it-yourselfer should choose high quality tools to get the best results; however, it isn’t necessary to buy professional tools. For the hand tools, be sure to choose brand names that you know are high-quality.
Sound easy enough or have you decided to hire a handyman service to do the job? If you hire a handyman service, take a look around your home and prepare a list of other small home repairs you need done. Have you had enough of the squeaky doors or closet doors that do not shut properly? Are you tired of looking at the holes in the walls and scratches on the floor? It’s the little things that count! Your local handyman service will be able to take care of it.
Keith Paul owns HandyPro Handyman Services of Southeast Michigan, serving consumers and business owners in Oakland, Wayne, Washtenaw Counties, Allen Park, Ann Arbor, Belleville, Beverly Hills, Birmingham, Brownstown, Canton, Detroit, Dearborn, Farmington Hills, Flat Rock, Garden City, Livonia, Northville, Novi, Plymouth, Riverview, Rochester, Royal Oak, Southfield, Trenton, Troy, Walled Lake, West Bloomfield, Westland, Ypsilanti and neighboring cities and communities. 48104, 48109, 48111, 48025, 48164, 48173, 48183, 48193, 48188, 48202, 48204, 48206, 48207, 48209, 48211, 48216, 48218, 48219, 48221, 48224, 48126, 48128, 48331, 48335, 48135, 48152, 48167, 48374, 48377, 48193, 48307, 48067, 48034, 48076, 48183, 48083, 48085, 48098, 48323, 48185, 48197
Hiring a handyman, Carpentry, Plaster, Drywall, Acoustic Ceilings, Grout tub, fix leaky faucet, home warranty/maintenance, paint home, caulk bathtub, replace locks, garage doors, cabinets, countertops, fix running toilet, repair squeaky door, install molding, security services, stained glass, door repair/install, drywall repair, painting, kitchen, insulation, gutter cleaning, concrete, masonry, repair gutters, remove wallpaper, replace ceiling fan, caulk awning, siding repair, install shelves, organizers, ceramic tile, window well covers, replace bathroom fan, draperies, blinds, shades, glass, mirrors, deck cleaning and sealing, and much more…just ask!
Drywall repair and installation is much easier when you have the right tools for the job. Using inferior drywall tools will result in unsatisfactory work. Drywall repair, installation and finishing takes time and effort; begin with the correct tools to do the job right.
You do not have to buy professional tools like the combination mud and tape dispensers unless you are planning to go into the drywall installation business. On the other hand, you should choose quality tools. Here are the basic tools the do-it-yourselfer needs for repairing or installing drywall:
Mud Pan – Choose a stainless steel pan that won’t rust; do not use the plastic pan with the metal strip which tends to rust.
Drywall Knife – Choose a 4 – 4-1/2 inch steel knife; one with a good quality name that won’t rust. This is the one to use with taping because it fits into the joints where two beveled edges of drywall meet, making it easier to imbed the tape.
Finishing Knife – Choose a good quality, 10” steel knife for the finishing coat to feather out the edges of the seam.
Corner Tool – Some people prefer the plastic but there are good quality steel corner tools too.
Other tools include a tape measure, T-Square, utility knife, drywall saw and a cordless drill/driver.
There are some basic supplies you will need as well:
Tape – Professionals prefer the paper tape; some homeowners like the mesh tape. Paper tape is much easier to cover and the best choice for taping seams.
Mud – All Purpose Joint Compound is the easiest to use and the least expensive. It comes in two different kinds; the one in the green bucket is the best. You can also buy the powder and mix it, but it hardens quickly and is only recommended for professional use.
Drywall Screws – Do not substitute a different type of screw; be sure to use drywall screws.
Once the drywall repair is done and the mud is dry you will need to sand it. Either use sandpaper or drywall sanding screen. Both come in various grit count for early sanding and final, finish sanding.
Even the do-it-yourselfer should choose high quality tools to get the best results; however, it isn’t necessary to buy professional tools. For the hand tools, be sure to choose brand names that you know are high-quality.
Sound easy enough or have you decided to hire a handyman service to do the job? If you hire a handyman service, take a look around your home and prepare a list of other small home repairs you need done. Have you had enough of the squeaky doors or closet doors that do not shut properly? Are you tired of looking at the holes in the walls and scratches on the floor? It’s the little things that count! Your local handyman service will be able to take care of it.
Keith Paul owns HandyPro Handyman Services of Southeast Michigan, serving consumers and business owners in Oakland, Wayne, Washtenaw Counties, Allen Park, Ann Arbor, Belleville, Beverly Hills, Birmingham, Brownstown, Canton, Detroit, Dearborn, Farmington Hills, Flat Rock, Garden City, Livonia, Northville, Novi, Plymouth, Riverview, Rochester, Royal Oak, Southfield, Trenton, Troy, Walled Lake, West Bloomfield, Westland, Ypsilanti and neighboring cities and communities. 48104, 48109, 48111, 48025, 48164, 48173, 48183, 48193, 48188, 48202, 48204, 48206, 48207, 48209, 48211, 48216, 48218, 48219, 48221, 48224, 48126, 48128, 48331, 48335, 48135, 48152, 48167, 48374, 48377, 48193, 48307, 48067, 48034, 48076, 48183, 48083, 48085, 48098, 48323, 48185, 48197
Hiring a handyman, Carpentry, Plaster, Drywall, Acoustic Ceilings, Grout tub, fix leaky faucet, home warranty/maintenance, paint home, caulk bathtub, replace locks, garage doors, cabinets, countertops, fix running toilet, repair squeaky door, install molding, security services, stained glass, door repair/install, drywall repair, painting, kitchen, insulation, gutter cleaning, concrete, masonry, repair gutters, remove wallpaper, replace ceiling fan, caulk awning, siding repair, install shelves, organizers, ceramic tile, window well covers, replace bathroom fan, draperies, blinds, shades, glass, mirrors, deck cleaning and sealing, and much more…just ask!
Handyman Services: Wintertime Energy Saving Tips
Handyman services in south east Michigan are busy performing home repairs and wintertime energy upgrades. Energy bills increase dramatically during the cold season. There are some things you or your handyman service can do to help you beat the increase on home heating bills.
Feel the cold draft around doors and windows? Gaps in caulk around windows and doors will allow heat to escape. Check your caulk for signs of deterioration; there should be no cracks or gaps in the caulk.
Have your handyman service install a programmable thermostat. According to Consumers Energy, this is one of the biggest ways to reduce your home heating cost. This will also help in the summertime on your cooling bills.
Your handyman service can check your attic insulation to be sure you have the appropriate R-value. Rolled insulation usually has the R-value printed on it; blown insulation should be at least 12 inches thick.
Close off the heat registers in rooms that you do not use. This will allow you to heat only the rooms where it is needed.
Replace your furnace filter every month to allow maximum air flow for your furnace. You will save energy by allowing your furnace to operate more efficiently. A clogged furnace filter causes your furnace to work harder to heat your home.
Check you humidifier. The proper amount of humidity will make your home feel warmer.
There are many things homeowners can do to save energy, from simple maintenance, to installing high-efficiency appliances, new windows and doors. Some of these things are easy enough for the homeowner to do. Others will require the expertise of a handyman service.
What’s on your to-do list? HandyPro Handyman Services offers affordable solutions to a wide variety of home repairs and maintenance projects. HandyPro specializes in helping the homeowner, business or property manager have minor repairs completed professionally, in a timely manner, and guarantees 100% customer satisfaction.
Keith Paul owns HandyPro Handyman Services of Southeast Michigan, serving consumers and business owners in Oakland, Wayne, Washtenaw Counties, Allen Park, Ann Arbor, Belleville, Beverly Hills, Birmingham, Brownstown, Canton, Detroit, Dearborn, Farmington Hills, Flat Rock, Garden City, Livonia, Northville, Novi, Plymouth, Riverview, Rochester, Royal Oak, Southfield, Trenton, Troy, Walled Lake, West Bloomfield, Westland, Ypsilanti and neighboring cities and communities. 48101, 48103, 48105, 48108, 48009, 48134, 48174, 48187, 48201, 48203, 48205, 48208, 48210, 48212, 48213, 48215, 48217, 48220, 48223, 48225, 48120, 48124, 48334, 48336, 48134, 48150, 48154, 48168, 48375, 48170, 48192, 48306. 48309, 48073, 48033, 48075, 48084, 48390, 48322, 48324, 48186, 48198
Find a Handyman, Carpentry, Plaster, Drywall repair, Acoustic Ceilings, Grout tub, fix leaky faucet, home warranty/maintenance, paint home, caulk bathtub, replace locks, garage doors, cabinets, countertops, fix running toilet, repair squeaky door, install molding, security services, stained glass, door repair/install, drywall repair, painting, remodel kitchen, insulation, concrete, masonry, repair gutters, remove wallpaper, replace ceiling fan, caulk awning, siding repair, gutter install, install shelves, organizers, ceramic tile, window well covers, replace bathroom fan, draperies, blinds, shades, glass, mirrors, deck repair, and much more…just ask!
Feel the cold draft around doors and windows? Gaps in caulk around windows and doors will allow heat to escape. Check your caulk for signs of deterioration; there should be no cracks or gaps in the caulk.
Have your handyman service install a programmable thermostat. According to Consumers Energy, this is one of the biggest ways to reduce your home heating cost. This will also help in the summertime on your cooling bills.
Your handyman service can check your attic insulation to be sure you have the appropriate R-value. Rolled insulation usually has the R-value printed on it; blown insulation should be at least 12 inches thick.
Close off the heat registers in rooms that you do not use. This will allow you to heat only the rooms where it is needed.
Replace your furnace filter every month to allow maximum air flow for your furnace. You will save energy by allowing your furnace to operate more efficiently. A clogged furnace filter causes your furnace to work harder to heat your home.
Check you humidifier. The proper amount of humidity will make your home feel warmer.
There are many things homeowners can do to save energy, from simple maintenance, to installing high-efficiency appliances, new windows and doors. Some of these things are easy enough for the homeowner to do. Others will require the expertise of a handyman service.
What’s on your to-do list? HandyPro Handyman Services offers affordable solutions to a wide variety of home repairs and maintenance projects. HandyPro specializes in helping the homeowner, business or property manager have minor repairs completed professionally, in a timely manner, and guarantees 100% customer satisfaction.
Keith Paul owns HandyPro Handyman Services of Southeast Michigan, serving consumers and business owners in Oakland, Wayne, Washtenaw Counties, Allen Park, Ann Arbor, Belleville, Beverly Hills, Birmingham, Brownstown, Canton, Detroit, Dearborn, Farmington Hills, Flat Rock, Garden City, Livonia, Northville, Novi, Plymouth, Riverview, Rochester, Royal Oak, Southfield, Trenton, Troy, Walled Lake, West Bloomfield, Westland, Ypsilanti and neighboring cities and communities. 48101, 48103, 48105, 48108, 48009, 48134, 48174, 48187, 48201, 48203, 48205, 48208, 48210, 48212, 48213, 48215, 48217, 48220, 48223, 48225, 48120, 48124, 48334, 48336, 48134, 48150, 48154, 48168, 48375, 48170, 48192, 48306. 48309, 48073, 48033, 48075, 48084, 48390, 48322, 48324, 48186, 48198
Find a Handyman, Carpentry, Plaster, Drywall repair, Acoustic Ceilings, Grout tub, fix leaky faucet, home warranty/maintenance, paint home, caulk bathtub, replace locks, garage doors, cabinets, countertops, fix running toilet, repair squeaky door, install molding, security services, stained glass, door repair/install, drywall repair, painting, remodel kitchen, insulation, concrete, masonry, repair gutters, remove wallpaper, replace ceiling fan, caulk awning, siding repair, gutter install, install shelves, organizers, ceramic tile, window well covers, replace bathroom fan, draperies, blinds, shades, glass, mirrors, deck repair, and much more…just ask!
Handyman Services: Tips for Installing a Bathroom Exhaust Fan
Handyman services often install new bathroom exhaust fans. For homeowners who like to do it themselves, replacing a bathroom exhaust fan isn’t too difficult. In fact, it’s much easier than repairing mildew stained walls and ceilings. The manufacturer usually provides detailed instructions for the homeowner or handyman service. Here is some information to help you decide what type of bathroom exhaust fan you need for your home.
Moisture in a bathroom is your worst enemy; moist, hot air must be vented to prevent mold and mildew build up, peeling paint and warped doors. One thing to consider is using a timer so you don’t have to remember to turn off the fan when it finishes its job. Newer models of exhaust fans are quiet, so it would be easy to forget to turn it off.
Choosing a New Bathroom Exhaust Fan – CFM and Sones
Our handyman service will recommend having a fan that is capable of achieving at least 8 air changes per hour, with the exhaust of air continuing for 20 minutes after showering. For maximum efficiency, choose the correct size fan. First, determine the volume of your bathroom; volume = length x width x height. Second, find the CFM (cubic feet per minute). CFM = volume/7.5. The CFM is the minimum airflow required to achieve 8 air exchanges per hour. Example: volume = 10 x 6 x 8 = 480. CFM = 480/7.5 = 64. Therefore, you would choose a fan with a CFM of greater than 64.
Next, consider how quiet you want the fan to be and remember the price goes up as the noise level goes down. Bathroom fans are measured by SONES. 4.0 sones are equal to the sound of normal television, which is very loud for a fan. 3.0 Sones make the sound of rustling leaves. A very quiet fan, at 1.0 Sones or less is ideal.
If you spend the extra money to have a very quiet fan, be sure to install it properly; many handyman services will recommend using screws instead of nails. Nails eventually vibrate loose and make noise. Use 4-inch venting. The bigger the venting, the quieter the fan will be. Make bends and turns gradual; avoid 90-degree bends if possible to reduce air noise.
Other considerations are features and looks. Maybe you want a fan with a light in it or one with a heating element. They come in different colors and styles. Your only limit is your budget and your taste. Start with CFM and Sones, and then choose one that looks good in your bathroom while protecting your décor from moisture and mildew.
Repairing your Existing Bathroom Exhaust Fan
If the existing fan is noisy, our handyman service might be able to repair it rather than replace it. Most fans are easy to take apart just by removing a few screws or fasteners. Many plug into a standard electrical outlet built into the fan box so you don’t need electrical skills. Obtaining replacement parts is often the biggest challenge for the handyman.
Replacing the motor assembly has the advantage of leaving the old fan housing installed, so there is no need to worry about electrical connections, venting and ceiling repairs. Replacement is only necessary if you absolutely hate your existing fan or have been unsuccessful in your search for replacement parts.
The disassembly process differs depending on the manufacturer. Some have recessed screws within the vent grills of the cover. Using a flashlight, locate the screws and loosen them so that the cover turns freely without scraping on the ceiling. Turn it slightly and it should release from the screws. Another cover type, common with lower to mid-priced models, is held in place by a nut or screw located behind the bulb. Take down the bulb cover and remove the bulb to expose the screw, to remove the light assembly and expose the fan motor. Others are held up by metal springs which have long protrusions that fit into slots in the body of the fan. Pull down on the cover to see the springs, squeeze together the protrusions to release the springs for clear access to the motor.
Shame on the handyman who has painted the ceiling without first removing the fan cover! It may be necessary to use a sharp utility knife to score the dried paint in order to remove the cover without damaging the drywall and creating extra work in having to patch and paint the area.
Once the inside is exposed, there should be a specification label with information printed on it. Write this down and keep it handy when you call around or shop for replacement parts. Or, to reduce the risk of error, remove the motor and frame and take the entire assembly to the store for the clerk to refer to when ordering your parts.
Most fan motors last for years; by the time they fail, the design is outdated or the cover looks bad. If this is the case, you may want to replace the entire unit. The first thing to consider is the CFM rating, to be sure you are moving enough air to be effective, and then consider the noise level. A slow turning fan is quieter, but if you don’t get the air movement, it will not be effective.
The quietest and most powerful exhaust fans are the inline fans, mounted in the attic and connected to a ceiling or wall register with flexible ducting. They don’t vibrate and make noise because they’re mounted to the roof rafters. These are not for every home as some are actually powerful enough to cause your ears to pop! Remember, all air being pumped out of your home needs to be replaced with outside air. Too powerful of a fan for your needs will increase your heat and AC bills.
Following these guidelines will result in sure success for the handyman installing or repairing a bathroom ceiling fan. Considering your budget, how quiet you want your fan to be, and the required air-flow for the size of your bathroom, choose a ceiling fan that works best for you. Follow manufacturer’s instructions and enjoy clean air in your bathroom for years to come.
Keith Paul owns HandyPro Handyman Services, a company who specializes in the homeowner’s to-do list of home repairs and maintenance chores. HandyPro provides a variety of services in over 1600 categories.
How to hire a handyman, Carpentry, Plaster and Drywall, Acoustic Ceilings, Grout tub, fix leaky faucet, home warranty/maintenance, paint home, caulk bathtub, replace locks, garage doors, cabinets, countertops, fix running toilet, repair squeaky door, install molding, security services, stained glass, door repair/install, drywall repair, painting, kitchen, insulation, concrete, masonry, repair gutters, remove wallpaper, replace ceiling fan, caulk awning, siding repair, install shelves, organizers, ceramic tile, window well covers, replace bathroom fan, draperies, blinds, shades, glass, mirrors, deck maintenance, and much more…just ask!
Keith Paul serves consumers and business owners in Southeast Michigan, Oakland, Wayne, Washtenaw Counties, Allen Park, Ann Arbor, Belleville, Beverly Hills, Birmingham, Brownstown, Canton, Detroit, Dearborn, Farmington Hills, Flat Rock, Garden City, Livonia, Northville, Novi, Plymouth, Riverview, Rochester, Royal Oak, Southfield, Trenton, Troy, Walled Lake, West Bloomfield, Westland, Ypsilanti and neighboring cities and communities.
48104, 48109, 48111, 48025, 48164, 48173, 48183, 48193, 48188, 48202, 48204, 48206, 48207, 48209, 48211, 48216, 48218, 48219, 48221, 48224, 48126, 48128, 48331, 48335, 48135, 48152, 48167, 48374, 48377, 48193, 48307, 48067, 48034, 48076, 48183, 48083, 48085, 48098, 48323, 48185, 48197
Moisture in a bathroom is your worst enemy; moist, hot air must be vented to prevent mold and mildew build up, peeling paint and warped doors. One thing to consider is using a timer so you don’t have to remember to turn off the fan when it finishes its job. Newer models of exhaust fans are quiet, so it would be easy to forget to turn it off.
Choosing a New Bathroom Exhaust Fan – CFM and Sones
Our handyman service will recommend having a fan that is capable of achieving at least 8 air changes per hour, with the exhaust of air continuing for 20 minutes after showering. For maximum efficiency, choose the correct size fan. First, determine the volume of your bathroom; volume = length x width x height. Second, find the CFM (cubic feet per minute). CFM = volume/7.5. The CFM is the minimum airflow required to achieve 8 air exchanges per hour. Example: volume = 10 x 6 x 8 = 480. CFM = 480/7.5 = 64. Therefore, you would choose a fan with a CFM of greater than 64.
Next, consider how quiet you want the fan to be and remember the price goes up as the noise level goes down. Bathroom fans are measured by SONES. 4.0 sones are equal to the sound of normal television, which is very loud for a fan. 3.0 Sones make the sound of rustling leaves. A very quiet fan, at 1.0 Sones or less is ideal.
If you spend the extra money to have a very quiet fan, be sure to install it properly; many handyman services will recommend using screws instead of nails. Nails eventually vibrate loose and make noise. Use 4-inch venting. The bigger the venting, the quieter the fan will be. Make bends and turns gradual; avoid 90-degree bends if possible to reduce air noise.
Other considerations are features and looks. Maybe you want a fan with a light in it or one with a heating element. They come in different colors and styles. Your only limit is your budget and your taste. Start with CFM and Sones, and then choose one that looks good in your bathroom while protecting your décor from moisture and mildew.
Repairing your Existing Bathroom Exhaust Fan
If the existing fan is noisy, our handyman service might be able to repair it rather than replace it. Most fans are easy to take apart just by removing a few screws or fasteners. Many plug into a standard electrical outlet built into the fan box so you don’t need electrical skills. Obtaining replacement parts is often the biggest challenge for the handyman.
Replacing the motor assembly has the advantage of leaving the old fan housing installed, so there is no need to worry about electrical connections, venting and ceiling repairs. Replacement is only necessary if you absolutely hate your existing fan or have been unsuccessful in your search for replacement parts.
The disassembly process differs depending on the manufacturer. Some have recessed screws within the vent grills of the cover. Using a flashlight, locate the screws and loosen them so that the cover turns freely without scraping on the ceiling. Turn it slightly and it should release from the screws. Another cover type, common with lower to mid-priced models, is held in place by a nut or screw located behind the bulb. Take down the bulb cover and remove the bulb to expose the screw, to remove the light assembly and expose the fan motor. Others are held up by metal springs which have long protrusions that fit into slots in the body of the fan. Pull down on the cover to see the springs, squeeze together the protrusions to release the springs for clear access to the motor.
Shame on the handyman who has painted the ceiling without first removing the fan cover! It may be necessary to use a sharp utility knife to score the dried paint in order to remove the cover without damaging the drywall and creating extra work in having to patch and paint the area.
Once the inside is exposed, there should be a specification label with information printed on it. Write this down and keep it handy when you call around or shop for replacement parts. Or, to reduce the risk of error, remove the motor and frame and take the entire assembly to the store for the clerk to refer to when ordering your parts.
Most fan motors last for years; by the time they fail, the design is outdated or the cover looks bad. If this is the case, you may want to replace the entire unit. The first thing to consider is the CFM rating, to be sure you are moving enough air to be effective, and then consider the noise level. A slow turning fan is quieter, but if you don’t get the air movement, it will not be effective.
The quietest and most powerful exhaust fans are the inline fans, mounted in the attic and connected to a ceiling or wall register with flexible ducting. They don’t vibrate and make noise because they’re mounted to the roof rafters. These are not for every home as some are actually powerful enough to cause your ears to pop! Remember, all air being pumped out of your home needs to be replaced with outside air. Too powerful of a fan for your needs will increase your heat and AC bills.
Following these guidelines will result in sure success for the handyman installing or repairing a bathroom ceiling fan. Considering your budget, how quiet you want your fan to be, and the required air-flow for the size of your bathroom, choose a ceiling fan that works best for you. Follow manufacturer’s instructions and enjoy clean air in your bathroom for years to come.
Keith Paul owns HandyPro Handyman Services, a company who specializes in the homeowner’s to-do list of home repairs and maintenance chores. HandyPro provides a variety of services in over 1600 categories.
How to hire a handyman, Carpentry, Plaster and Drywall, Acoustic Ceilings, Grout tub, fix leaky faucet, home warranty/maintenance, paint home, caulk bathtub, replace locks, garage doors, cabinets, countertops, fix running toilet, repair squeaky door, install molding, security services, stained glass, door repair/install, drywall repair, painting, kitchen, insulation, concrete, masonry, repair gutters, remove wallpaper, replace ceiling fan, caulk awning, siding repair, install shelves, organizers, ceramic tile, window well covers, replace bathroom fan, draperies, blinds, shades, glass, mirrors, deck maintenance, and much more…just ask!
Keith Paul serves consumers and business owners in Southeast Michigan, Oakland, Wayne, Washtenaw Counties, Allen Park, Ann Arbor, Belleville, Beverly Hills, Birmingham, Brownstown, Canton, Detroit, Dearborn, Farmington Hills, Flat Rock, Garden City, Livonia, Northville, Novi, Plymouth, Riverview, Rochester, Royal Oak, Southfield, Trenton, Troy, Walled Lake, West Bloomfield, Westland, Ypsilanti and neighboring cities and communities.
48104, 48109, 48111, 48025, 48164, 48173, 48183, 48193, 48188, 48202, 48204, 48206, 48207, 48209, 48211, 48216, 48218, 48219, 48221, 48224, 48126, 48128, 48331, 48335, 48135, 48152, 48167, 48374, 48377, 48193, 48307, 48067, 48034, 48076, 48183, 48083, 48085, 48098, 48323, 48185, 48197
Handyman Services: The Scoop on Goop and Construction Adhesives
Handyman services carry several types of adhesives to be prepared for small home repairs. There are hundreds of different types of glues and adhesives designed to bond various materials. This article will cover two types of adhesives that all handyman services should have on hand:
Construction Adhesives
There is a wide range of adhesives commonly used in building and renovating homes and commercial buildings. You can find products in any hardware store that are labeled “construction adhesive”, but in this article, I’m referring to a specific class of adhesives that have certain characteristics, including:
• Available in cans, squeeze tubes and caulking tubes
• Thick adhesives that are applied with a putty knife or notched trowel
• Will adhere to a wide range of building materials
• Waterproof or water resistant
• Generally dry within 24 hours and remain soft and flexible
• Water or solvent based
There are many different construction adhesives for use with different building materials, so it is important to read the label to be sure you have the right product for the job. Some have multiple uses and some are specifically designed for one product only. Some are great for interior jobs but do not withstand temperature changes, moisture and humidity.
Some construction adhesives are applied with a caulk gun and used for bonding large materials to flat surfaces, for example, paneling to a smooth wall or a tub surround to drywall or ceramic, or any job where it is only necessary to run a bead.
Full coverage adhesives are used where the material to be glued is smaller, such as floor tiles or ceramic tiles. This is applied using a notched trowel to spread the adhesive. For these types of projects, do not try substituting a different tool, such as a drywall knife or flat trowel to spread the adhesive. There are reasons for using only a notched trowel, including:
• Saves up to 50% on the amount of adhesive used
• Spreads consistent thickness for proper adhesion and a neater finish. If the adhesive is spread too thick it will cause a soft spot in a floor or ceramic wall, causing movement of the tiles since it does remain flexible
• Speeds drying time as the grooves flatten when the material is pressed into place. A thick coat will take weeks to dry.
• Better adhesion as the peaks produced by the trowel helps the material to grip firmly
• Less shrinkage as the adhesive dries. A thick coat will produce visible settling; do not attempt to fill in low spots with additional adhesive.
Be sure to use the correct adhesive. Some adhesives contain certain solvents which will bleed through plastic or vinyl trim or tub surrounds, creating a permanent stain which cannot be removed. This may take a few weeks to happen; what a major disappointment after all your hard work!
Read all instructions and note the drying times required before applying any stress to your project. If the label says to wait a week or two before moving heavy appliances onto your new kitchen floor, then by all means, do it! Most labels have very detailed instructions, but they don’t always tell you the reasons for them or the penalties when you fail to follow them.
Goop Adhesives
Yes, there is a professional product called “Goop”! The goop I’m going to tell you about is a handyman’s favorite adhesive. There’s plumber’s goop, carpenter’s goop, and even a shoe repair product called shoe goop.
Goop products are all about the same with some variations in consistency and color. Some goops are thinner for precise, detailed work; where others are thicker for vertical and overhead applications. Marine goop and lawn and garden goop are all UV-resistant and water resistant. Shoe goop is rubbery to allow flexibility.
Regardless of what kind of goop you are using, it sticks to almost everything, it remains flexible and it is durable. One drawback is that it can become discolored in certain conditions, like extreme heat and humidity, over time. Do not use in places where appearance is critical.
Goop is great for laminate edging on shelves, cabinets and kitchen counters. It adheres to the old glue and allows time to adjust before setting, unlike contact cement, which sets very quickly, allowing no time to correct mistakes. Simply apply to one surface, press the laminate into place, and then pull it back to allow the solvent to partially evaporate. Press it back together and use masking tape to hold it in place until it dries. Allow at least 24 hours or more for maximum adhesion.
Goop is good for many wood furniture repairs and cabinet repairs, but it is not recommended for fine cabinet building because it is not sandable and it does not absorb stain products. If you’re using goop where appearance is an issue, use sparingly to avoid squeeze out at the edges of the materials you are gluing. It is not recommended for tight fitting joints. Goop is ideal for concealed wood repairs like behind cabinet face frames where nailing is difficult or behind drawers.
Goop has many uses and it is about the easiest type of adhesive to use, but take care when using in places that mistakes will be visible. Be sure to wipe away squeeze out immediately as it will discolor and look bad over time. Acetone products are good for cleaning up mistakes from excess goop if it is cleaned up before it sets. As with all products read the label for any warnings about damage it may cause on certain surfaces.
Keith Paul owns HandyPro Handyman Services specializing in handling the to-do- list. HandyPro Handyman Services offers affordable solutions to a wide variety of home repairs and maintenance projects. HandyPro specializes in helping the homeowner, business or property manager have minor repairs completed professionally, in a timely manner, and guarantees 100% customer satisfaction.
Handyman Referal, Carpentry, Plaster and Drywall, Acoustic Ceilings, Grout tub, fix leaky faucet, home warranty/maintenance, paint home, caulk bathtub, replace locks, garage doors, install cabinets, countertops, fix running toilet, repair squeaky door, install molding, security services, stained glass, door repair/install, drywall repair, painting, kitchen, home insulation, concrete, masonry, repair gutters, remove wallpaper, replace ceiling fan, caulk awning, siding repair, install shelves, organizers, ceramic tile, window well covers, install bathroom exhaust fan, draperies, blinds, shades, glass, mirrors, deck sealing, and much more…just ask!
Keith Paul serves consumers and business owners in Southeast Michigan, Oakland, Wayne, Washtenaw Counties, Allen Park, Ann Arbor, Belleville, Beverly Hills, Birmingham, Brownstown, Canton, Detroit, Dearborn, Farmington Hills, Flat Rock, Garden City, Livonia, Northville, Novi, Plymouth, Riverview, Rochester, Royal Oak, Southfield, Trenton, Troy, Walled Lake, West Bloomfield, Westland, Ypsilanti and neighboring cities and communities.
48101, 48103, 48105, 48108, 48009, 48134, 48174, 48187, 48201, 48203, 48205, 48208, 48210, 48212, 48213, 48215, 48217, 48220, 48223, 48225, 48120, 48124, 48334, 48336, 48134, 48150, 48154, 48168, 48375, 48170, 48192, 48306. 48309, 48073, 48033, 48075, 48084, 48390, 48322, 48324, 48186, 48198
Construction Adhesives
There is a wide range of adhesives commonly used in building and renovating homes and commercial buildings. You can find products in any hardware store that are labeled “construction adhesive”, but in this article, I’m referring to a specific class of adhesives that have certain characteristics, including:
• Available in cans, squeeze tubes and caulking tubes
• Thick adhesives that are applied with a putty knife or notched trowel
• Will adhere to a wide range of building materials
• Waterproof or water resistant
• Generally dry within 24 hours and remain soft and flexible
• Water or solvent based
There are many different construction adhesives for use with different building materials, so it is important to read the label to be sure you have the right product for the job. Some have multiple uses and some are specifically designed for one product only. Some are great for interior jobs but do not withstand temperature changes, moisture and humidity.
Some construction adhesives are applied with a caulk gun and used for bonding large materials to flat surfaces, for example, paneling to a smooth wall or a tub surround to drywall or ceramic, or any job where it is only necessary to run a bead.
Full coverage adhesives are used where the material to be glued is smaller, such as floor tiles or ceramic tiles. This is applied using a notched trowel to spread the adhesive. For these types of projects, do not try substituting a different tool, such as a drywall knife or flat trowel to spread the adhesive. There are reasons for using only a notched trowel, including:
• Saves up to 50% on the amount of adhesive used
• Spreads consistent thickness for proper adhesion and a neater finish. If the adhesive is spread too thick it will cause a soft spot in a floor or ceramic wall, causing movement of the tiles since it does remain flexible
• Speeds drying time as the grooves flatten when the material is pressed into place. A thick coat will take weeks to dry.
• Better adhesion as the peaks produced by the trowel helps the material to grip firmly
• Less shrinkage as the adhesive dries. A thick coat will produce visible settling; do not attempt to fill in low spots with additional adhesive.
Be sure to use the correct adhesive. Some adhesives contain certain solvents which will bleed through plastic or vinyl trim or tub surrounds, creating a permanent stain which cannot be removed. This may take a few weeks to happen; what a major disappointment after all your hard work!
Read all instructions and note the drying times required before applying any stress to your project. If the label says to wait a week or two before moving heavy appliances onto your new kitchen floor, then by all means, do it! Most labels have very detailed instructions, but they don’t always tell you the reasons for them or the penalties when you fail to follow them.
Goop Adhesives
Yes, there is a professional product called “Goop”! The goop I’m going to tell you about is a handyman’s favorite adhesive. There’s plumber’s goop, carpenter’s goop, and even a shoe repair product called shoe goop.
Goop products are all about the same with some variations in consistency and color. Some goops are thinner for precise, detailed work; where others are thicker for vertical and overhead applications. Marine goop and lawn and garden goop are all UV-resistant and water resistant. Shoe goop is rubbery to allow flexibility.
Regardless of what kind of goop you are using, it sticks to almost everything, it remains flexible and it is durable. One drawback is that it can become discolored in certain conditions, like extreme heat and humidity, over time. Do not use in places where appearance is critical.
Goop is great for laminate edging on shelves, cabinets and kitchen counters. It adheres to the old glue and allows time to adjust before setting, unlike contact cement, which sets very quickly, allowing no time to correct mistakes. Simply apply to one surface, press the laminate into place, and then pull it back to allow the solvent to partially evaporate. Press it back together and use masking tape to hold it in place until it dries. Allow at least 24 hours or more for maximum adhesion.
Goop is good for many wood furniture repairs and cabinet repairs, but it is not recommended for fine cabinet building because it is not sandable and it does not absorb stain products. If you’re using goop where appearance is an issue, use sparingly to avoid squeeze out at the edges of the materials you are gluing. It is not recommended for tight fitting joints. Goop is ideal for concealed wood repairs like behind cabinet face frames where nailing is difficult or behind drawers.
Goop has many uses and it is about the easiest type of adhesive to use, but take care when using in places that mistakes will be visible. Be sure to wipe away squeeze out immediately as it will discolor and look bad over time. Acetone products are good for cleaning up mistakes from excess goop if it is cleaned up before it sets. As with all products read the label for any warnings about damage it may cause on certain surfaces.
Keith Paul owns HandyPro Handyman Services specializing in handling the to-do- list. HandyPro Handyman Services offers affordable solutions to a wide variety of home repairs and maintenance projects. HandyPro specializes in helping the homeowner, business or property manager have minor repairs completed professionally, in a timely manner, and guarantees 100% customer satisfaction.
Handyman Referal, Carpentry, Plaster and Drywall, Acoustic Ceilings, Grout tub, fix leaky faucet, home warranty/maintenance, paint home, caulk bathtub, replace locks, garage doors, install cabinets, countertops, fix running toilet, repair squeaky door, install molding, security services, stained glass, door repair/install, drywall repair, painting, kitchen, home insulation, concrete, masonry, repair gutters, remove wallpaper, replace ceiling fan, caulk awning, siding repair, install shelves, organizers, ceramic tile, window well covers, install bathroom exhaust fan, draperies, blinds, shades, glass, mirrors, deck sealing, and much more…just ask!
Keith Paul serves consumers and business owners in Southeast Michigan, Oakland, Wayne, Washtenaw Counties, Allen Park, Ann Arbor, Belleville, Beverly Hills, Birmingham, Brownstown, Canton, Detroit, Dearborn, Farmington Hills, Flat Rock, Garden City, Livonia, Northville, Novi, Plymouth, Riverview, Rochester, Royal Oak, Southfield, Trenton, Troy, Walled Lake, West Bloomfield, Westland, Ypsilanti and neighboring cities and communities.
48101, 48103, 48105, 48108, 48009, 48134, 48174, 48187, 48201, 48203, 48205, 48208, 48210, 48212, 48213, 48215, 48217, 48220, 48223, 48225, 48120, 48124, 48334, 48336, 48134, 48150, 48154, 48168, 48375, 48170, 48192, 48306. 48309, 48073, 48033, 48075, 48084, 48390, 48322, 48324, 48186, 48198
Handyman Services in Southeast Michigan for Home Repair and Remodeling
Handyman services are busier than ever handling minor home repairs and small remodeling projects for homeowners. With the condition of the real estate market, supplies are up, prices are down; the result is high competition if you’re trying to sell or lease your home. With so many to choose from, the more you can do to improve the appearance of your home, the better your chances are of getting offers.
Handyman Services with Tips on Preparing your Home for Remodeling
If you are planning to sell or lease your home, there are many things you can do to improve your home without spending a fortune. In some cases, a good cleaning can make all the difference in the world. It certainly helps to have the clutter out of the way if you’re going to any remodeling. If your home is cluttered it will make rooms appear to be smaller; more open space gives a roomier appearance. A perspective buyer or tenant will not be able to see past the clutter; they will be less likely to make an offer. Here are some things you can do to create more open space:
• Reduce clutter: This is a good time to downsize the amount of stuff you have to pack, move and unpack when you sell or lease your home. It will make moving day easier.
• Go room by room; go through drawers, cabinets, closets and shelves; keep what you need; donate, sell or throw out what you don’t need. This will make for an easier time organizing your next home when you move.
• As you begin to pack, store packed boxes in the basement, garage, or someplace out of the main living area. Stacks of boxes in the living room take up that open space you need.
• Remove items from closets, leaving them only half full. Install closet organizers and use only half of the available shelf space, giving the appearance of plenty of storage.
• Do the same with built in utility cabinets, kitchen cabinets and bathroom cabinets. All storage spaces should be clean, organized and only half full.
• Clean carpets, scrub tile floors, get rid worn out throw rugs
• Wash siding, windows and deck
• Clean up the yard, keep mowed and trimmed
A complete cleaning and clutter removal will do wonders for improving the appearance of your home to make it more attractive to perspective buyers. You might consider hiring a professional cleaning service.
Handyman Services for Home Repairs and Improvement
Now that your home is neat, clean and clutter free you have plenty of room to move around. Fix the small items that you have been meaning to get to; cracked windows, broken window locks, squeaky doors, burned out light bulbs, leaky faucet, etc…
A fresh coat of paint brightens up any home. Use light colors to give each room a larger, brighter appearance. Don’t be cheap in selecting paint; it isn’t worth it, even if you are moving soon. Use a high-quality paint that washes and wears well. You never know; it might take months to sell or lease your home; it would be a shame if you had trouble maintaining the new paint job.
Open curtains and blinds if you are showing the home during the day. For night showings, leave a light on in every room. Lighter and brighter gives the appearance of being larger and cleaner.
Whether you’re selling, leasing or just want to make your home more enjoyable, there are simple, inexpensive things you can do. You might just need to clean and brighten things up; or maybe you need to completely remodel the kitchen or bathroom. In any case, the cleaning and de-cluttering makes the entire process much easier.
Handyman Services Save Time and Money
Handyman services are most helpful with the small home repairs and remodeling jobs. If you have a list of items, like those listed above for example, a handyman service can send a specialist to handle each item on your list. Handymen make their living doing the small jobs that the large contractor crew of men would prefer not to do. Paying one handyman to make these small home repairs would be considerably cheaper than paying a crew of contractors.
Handyman Services save you time because they are better equipped to handle the list of small jobs. A handyman can complete a large list of home repair projects in one to three days; it might take you one to three months depending on how much spare time you have to commit to this project.
So the rule is light, bright, clean and spacious so your home stands out from the competition. If the yard is littered and overgrown, the home is cluttered then you are giving the appearance of overwhelm with a home that is difficult to care for, or one that is not worth the time and effort to maintain. A clean home and yard is more inviting and gives a better impression. First impressions are everything when you are showing your home to buyers or tenants.
What’s on your to-do list? Keith Paul, owner of HandyPro Handyman Services offers affordable solutions to a wide variety of home repairs and maintenance projects. HandyPro specializes in helping the homeowner, business or property manager have minor repairs completed professionally, in a timely manner, and guarantees 100% customer satisfaction.
Hire a Handyman, Carpentry, Plaster, Drywall, Acoustic Ceilings, Grout tub, fix leaky faucet, home warranty/maintenance, paint home, caulk bathtub, replace locks, garage doors, cabinets, countertops, fix running toilet, repair squeaky door, install molding, security services, stained glass, door repair/install, drywall repair, painting, kitchen, insulation, concrete, masonry, repair gutters, remove wallpaper, replace ceiling fan, caulk awning, siding repair, install shelves, organizers, ceramic tile, window well covers, replace bathroom fan, draperies, blinds, shades, glass, mirrors, deck staining, and much more…just ask!
HandyPro Handyman Services serves consumers and business owners in Southeast Michigan, Oakland, Wayne, Washtenaw Counties, Allen Park, Ann Arbor, Belleville, Beverly Hills, Birmingham, Brownstown, Canton, Detroit, Dearborn, Farmington Hills, Flat Rock, Garden City, Livonia, Northville, Novi, Plymouth, Riverview, Rochester, Royal Oak, Southfield, Trenton, Troy, Walled Lake, West Bloomfield, Westland, Ypsilanti and neighboring cities and communities.
48104, 48109, 48111, 48025, 48164, 48173, 48183, 48193, 48188, 48202, 48204, 48206, 48207, 48209, 48211, 48216, 48218, 48219, 48221, 48224, 48126, 48128, 48331, 48335, 48135, 48152, 48167, 48374, 48377, 48193, 48307, 48067, 48034, 48076, 48183, 48083, 48085, 48098, 48323, 48185, 48197
Handyman Services with Tips on Preparing your Home for Remodeling
If you are planning to sell or lease your home, there are many things you can do to improve your home without spending a fortune. In some cases, a good cleaning can make all the difference in the world. It certainly helps to have the clutter out of the way if you’re going to any remodeling. If your home is cluttered it will make rooms appear to be smaller; more open space gives a roomier appearance. A perspective buyer or tenant will not be able to see past the clutter; they will be less likely to make an offer. Here are some things you can do to create more open space:
• Reduce clutter: This is a good time to downsize the amount of stuff you have to pack, move and unpack when you sell or lease your home. It will make moving day easier.
• Go room by room; go through drawers, cabinets, closets and shelves; keep what you need; donate, sell or throw out what you don’t need. This will make for an easier time organizing your next home when you move.
• As you begin to pack, store packed boxes in the basement, garage, or someplace out of the main living area. Stacks of boxes in the living room take up that open space you need.
• Remove items from closets, leaving them only half full. Install closet organizers and use only half of the available shelf space, giving the appearance of plenty of storage.
• Do the same with built in utility cabinets, kitchen cabinets and bathroom cabinets. All storage spaces should be clean, organized and only half full.
• Clean carpets, scrub tile floors, get rid worn out throw rugs
• Wash siding, windows and deck
• Clean up the yard, keep mowed and trimmed
A complete cleaning and clutter removal will do wonders for improving the appearance of your home to make it more attractive to perspective buyers. You might consider hiring a professional cleaning service.
Handyman Services for Home Repairs and Improvement
Now that your home is neat, clean and clutter free you have plenty of room to move around. Fix the small items that you have been meaning to get to; cracked windows, broken window locks, squeaky doors, burned out light bulbs, leaky faucet, etc…
A fresh coat of paint brightens up any home. Use light colors to give each room a larger, brighter appearance. Don’t be cheap in selecting paint; it isn’t worth it, even if you are moving soon. Use a high-quality paint that washes and wears well. You never know; it might take months to sell or lease your home; it would be a shame if you had trouble maintaining the new paint job.
Open curtains and blinds if you are showing the home during the day. For night showings, leave a light on in every room. Lighter and brighter gives the appearance of being larger and cleaner.
Whether you’re selling, leasing or just want to make your home more enjoyable, there are simple, inexpensive things you can do. You might just need to clean and brighten things up; or maybe you need to completely remodel the kitchen or bathroom. In any case, the cleaning and de-cluttering makes the entire process much easier.
Handyman Services Save Time and Money
Handyman services are most helpful with the small home repairs and remodeling jobs. If you have a list of items, like those listed above for example, a handyman service can send a specialist to handle each item on your list. Handymen make their living doing the small jobs that the large contractor crew of men would prefer not to do. Paying one handyman to make these small home repairs would be considerably cheaper than paying a crew of contractors.
Handyman Services save you time because they are better equipped to handle the list of small jobs. A handyman can complete a large list of home repair projects in one to three days; it might take you one to three months depending on how much spare time you have to commit to this project.
So the rule is light, bright, clean and spacious so your home stands out from the competition. If the yard is littered and overgrown, the home is cluttered then you are giving the appearance of overwhelm with a home that is difficult to care for, or one that is not worth the time and effort to maintain. A clean home and yard is more inviting and gives a better impression. First impressions are everything when you are showing your home to buyers or tenants.
What’s on your to-do list? Keith Paul, owner of HandyPro Handyman Services offers affordable solutions to a wide variety of home repairs and maintenance projects. HandyPro specializes in helping the homeowner, business or property manager have minor repairs completed professionally, in a timely manner, and guarantees 100% customer satisfaction.
Hire a Handyman, Carpentry, Plaster, Drywall, Acoustic Ceilings, Grout tub, fix leaky faucet, home warranty/maintenance, paint home, caulk bathtub, replace locks, garage doors, cabinets, countertops, fix running toilet, repair squeaky door, install molding, security services, stained glass, door repair/install, drywall repair, painting, kitchen, insulation, concrete, masonry, repair gutters, remove wallpaper, replace ceiling fan, caulk awning, siding repair, install shelves, organizers, ceramic tile, window well covers, replace bathroom fan, draperies, blinds, shades, glass, mirrors, deck staining, and much more…just ask!
HandyPro Handyman Services serves consumers and business owners in Southeast Michigan, Oakland, Wayne, Washtenaw Counties, Allen Park, Ann Arbor, Belleville, Beverly Hills, Birmingham, Brownstown, Canton, Detroit, Dearborn, Farmington Hills, Flat Rock, Garden City, Livonia, Northville, Novi, Plymouth, Riverview, Rochester, Royal Oak, Southfield, Trenton, Troy, Walled Lake, West Bloomfield, Westland, Ypsilanti and neighboring cities and communities.
48104, 48109, 48111, 48025, 48164, 48173, 48183, 48193, 48188, 48202, 48204, 48206, 48207, 48209, 48211, 48216, 48218, 48219, 48221, 48224, 48126, 48128, 48331, 48335, 48135, 48152, 48167, 48374, 48377, 48193, 48307, 48067, 48034, 48076, 48183, 48083, 48085, 48098, 48323, 48185, 48197
Handyman Service: Deck Sealing and Maintenance Tips from your Ann Arbor, MI Handyman Service
With winter approaching you will want to add deck sealing to the list of chores for your handyman service. Handyman services are great for the small jobs and seasonal maintenance work that you need to have done. Large building contractors often turn down the small jobs because this is not their specialty. Here are some tips on deck maintenance and sealing from a professional handyman service:
A nice wood deck is a great improvement to your home. Add some outdoor furniture and you have a nice place for company to gather for the outdoor barbeque or the family to sit and enjoy a nice evening. When properly maintained it will withstand winters and last for many years. Here are some tips to keep your deck in good condition for years to come.
Sweep away leaves and debris from between the deck boards. Dirt and leaves build up and cause standing water to remain on top of the deck rather than draining through. Proper ventilation is important to avoid moisture build up and damage to the wood. Mildew can be very damaging and should be removed as soon as it appears. Clean the deck thoroughly with a product specially designed for wood decks. Weathered wood, rust spots, mold and mildew will ruin the look of your new deck and cause rotting. If the deck is new and untreated, cleaning restores the wood to its natural beauty and removes ground in dirt that prevents the adhesion of stains and sealers. An older deck will require the use of a stripper to remove any deteriorating finish before cleaning.
Flower pots and planters which set directly on the deck’s surface may cause staining. They should be moved around often to minimize this effect. You can also set them on cedar board to create space between the deck and the planter. Cedar has natural compounds that resist deterioration, rot and decay while allowing moisture to evaporate.
When the deck is clean, allow it to dry thoroughly, and then apply a sealer to protect it from rain, sleet, snow and ice which will cause the wood to warp or crack. Thompsons water seal can be applied with a brush, roller or sprayer. It is a quick and affordable way to protect your investment and keep your deck looking like new for many years. One coat is sufficient to protect the wood through a harsh winter. If winters are relatively mild, you may not need to seal it every year. If water beads up on the wood and doesn’t soak in, the sealer is still doing its job and you won’t need to seal it.
It is only necessary to apply the sealer to the top surface of the wood. Coating the wood on all sides prevents any moisture that does get in from escaping, causing the wood to rot from the inside.
In the winter, shovel the snow with a plastic shovel, moving lengthwise on the deck boards to prevent scratching the wood. Avoid using salt as it could discolor the wood and damage deck finishes.
Your deck is one of your largest outdoor investments. Simple maintenance will keep it protected through the winter months so you can enjoy it in the warmer season. Clean it every spring and fall and use a quality deck sealer before winter to protect your investment.
Keith Paul, owner and operator of HandyPro Handyman Services specializes in handling everything on your to-do list, including carpentry, paint, drywall, plumbing, seasonal maintenance and more. Click link for tips on hiring a handyman service
HandyPro Handyman Services covers over 1600 categories including Carpentry, Plaster, Drywall, Acoustic Ceilings, Grout tub, fix leaky faucet, home warranty/maintenance, paint home, caulk bathtub, replace locks, garage doors, cabinets, countertops, fix running toilet, clogged drains, repair squeaky door, install molding, security services, stained glass, door repair/install, drywall repair, painting, kitchen, attic insulation, concrete, masonry, repair gutters, remove wallpaper, replace ceiling fan, caulk awning, gutter and siding repair, install shelves, organizers, ceramic tile, window well covers, replace bathroom fan, draperies, blinds, shades, glass, mirrors, deck sealing, and much more…just ask!
Southeast Michigan, Oakland, Wayne, Washtenaw Counties, Allen Park, Ann Arbor, Belleville, Beverly Hills, Birmingham, Brownstown, Canton, Detroit, Dearborn, Farmington Hills, Flat Rock, Garden City, Livonia, Northville, Novi, Plymouth, Riverview, Rochester, Royal Oak, Southfield, Trenton, Troy, Walled Lake, West Bloomfield, Westland, Ypsilanti and neighboring cities and communities.
48104, 48109, 48111, 48025, 48164, 48173, 48183, 48193, 48188, 48202, 48204, 48206, 48207, 48209, 48211, 48216, 48218, 48219, 48221, 48224, 48126, 48128, 48331, 48335, 48135, 48152, 48167, 48374, 48377, 48193, 48307, 48067, 48034, 48076, 48183, 48083, 48085, 48098, 48323, 48185, 48197
A nice wood deck is a great improvement to your home. Add some outdoor furniture and you have a nice place for company to gather for the outdoor barbeque or the family to sit and enjoy a nice evening. When properly maintained it will withstand winters and last for many years. Here are some tips to keep your deck in good condition for years to come.
Sweep away leaves and debris from between the deck boards. Dirt and leaves build up and cause standing water to remain on top of the deck rather than draining through. Proper ventilation is important to avoid moisture build up and damage to the wood. Mildew can be very damaging and should be removed as soon as it appears. Clean the deck thoroughly with a product specially designed for wood decks. Weathered wood, rust spots, mold and mildew will ruin the look of your new deck and cause rotting. If the deck is new and untreated, cleaning restores the wood to its natural beauty and removes ground in dirt that prevents the adhesion of stains and sealers. An older deck will require the use of a stripper to remove any deteriorating finish before cleaning.
Flower pots and planters which set directly on the deck’s surface may cause staining. They should be moved around often to minimize this effect. You can also set them on cedar board to create space between the deck and the planter. Cedar has natural compounds that resist deterioration, rot and decay while allowing moisture to evaporate.
When the deck is clean, allow it to dry thoroughly, and then apply a sealer to protect it from rain, sleet, snow and ice which will cause the wood to warp or crack. Thompsons water seal can be applied with a brush, roller or sprayer. It is a quick and affordable way to protect your investment and keep your deck looking like new for many years. One coat is sufficient to protect the wood through a harsh winter. If winters are relatively mild, you may not need to seal it every year. If water beads up on the wood and doesn’t soak in, the sealer is still doing its job and you won’t need to seal it.
It is only necessary to apply the sealer to the top surface of the wood. Coating the wood on all sides prevents any moisture that does get in from escaping, causing the wood to rot from the inside.
In the winter, shovel the snow with a plastic shovel, moving lengthwise on the deck boards to prevent scratching the wood. Avoid using salt as it could discolor the wood and damage deck finishes.
Your deck is one of your largest outdoor investments. Simple maintenance will keep it protected through the winter months so you can enjoy it in the warmer season. Clean it every spring and fall and use a quality deck sealer before winter to protect your investment.
Keith Paul, owner and operator of HandyPro Handyman Services specializes in handling everything on your to-do list, including carpentry, paint, drywall, plumbing, seasonal maintenance and more. Click link for tips on hiring a handyman service
HandyPro Handyman Services covers over 1600 categories including Carpentry, Plaster, Drywall, Acoustic Ceilings, Grout tub, fix leaky faucet, home warranty/maintenance, paint home, caulk bathtub, replace locks, garage doors, cabinets, countertops, fix running toilet, clogged drains, repair squeaky door, install molding, security services, stained glass, door repair/install, drywall repair, painting, kitchen, attic insulation, concrete, masonry, repair gutters, remove wallpaper, replace ceiling fan, caulk awning, gutter and siding repair, install shelves, organizers, ceramic tile, window well covers, replace bathroom fan, draperies, blinds, shades, glass, mirrors, deck sealing, and much more…just ask!
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