Drywall Repair Starts with the Right Tools
Drywall repair and installation is much easier if you have the right tools for the job. Using inferior drywall tools could produce unsatisfactory results. Drywall repair, installation and finishing takes time and effort; begin with the correct tools to do the job right.
There is no need to by the professional tools like the combination mud and tape dispensers unless you are planning to go into the drywall installation business; however, you do need to 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.
Paul Doughty owns and operates HandyPro Handyman Services, a one-stop professional, honest and trusted handyman service who does a wide variety of jobs; large and small; all with high-quality workmanship. Paul services consumers and businesses in Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs, Fountain, Monument, and neighboring cities and communities in El Paso County, Colorado.
80829, 80817, 80132, 80902, 80903, 80904, 80905, 80906, 80907, 80908, 80909, 80910, 80911, 80912, 80913, 80915, 80916, 80917, 80918, 80919, 80920, 80921, 80922, 80923, 80924
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Handyman Services in El Paso County – Tips for Maintaining your Vinyl Floor
Your new vinyl floor is a beautiful, long lasting, durable product that will withstand years of use and some abuse, but it can be permanently damaged if it is not cared for properly. Here are some recommended handyman tips for maintaining your vinyl floor.
Wipe up all spills as soon as possible and mop regularly with a no-rinse floor cleaner. Use a floor stripper and cleaner for heavy duty cleaning and a no-wax shine keeper if it begins to dull over time.
Our handyman advises that you do not use detergents or abrasive cleaners. Certain mop and shine products may leave a dull film on the floor. Do not use paste wax or solvent-based polishes. Do not vacuum with a beater bar because it can visibly damage the floor surface and do not use highly abrasive scrubbing tools.
There are steps you can take to prevent damage to your vinyl floor. When moving heavy furniture or appliances, lay plywood and “walk” the item across it to avoid scuffing and tearing the vinyl. Use floor protectors on furniture to reduce indentation. The heavier the item, the wider the floor protector you need. Furniture with metal protectors can leave deep indentations and leave rust stains. Some rolling casters can also do damage. If you must use casters, the double-wheel type is your best option.
Place a mat at the entrance to reduce the amount of dirt that is tracked into the house. Rubber or latex- backed mats are not recommended because the chemical used to keep the backing from becoming brittle can permanently stain the floor. Use a non-staining vinyl-backed mat or a colorfast rug.
Our handyman advises preventative measures you can take immediately after installing your new vinyl floor. Be sure to protect sealed seams for at least 8 hours after installation to ensure a proper seam bond. If seams not protected until they’re dry, permanent damage can result.
Maintain room temperature of at least 65 degrees for 48 hours after installation to assure proper curing, setting and bonding of products. Take care to avoid spills and dirt for at least five days after installing as mopping is not recommended on a new vinyl floor because the adhesive needs time to dry thoroughly.
Vinyl flooring is quite durable, but it is not stain-proof. Many stains are removable, but some are not. Be careful when using stain removal products, testing them first in inconspicuous places to be sure they do not dull or damage the finish. Wipe spills quickly, as soon as the happen to reduce staining.
Read labels on floor stain removal products to be sure they are appropriate for vinyl floors. Many stains can be removed with alcohol, mineral spirits or turpentine. Scrub the area with floor stripper and cleaner, using a nonabrasive scrubbing pad. Read and follow all instructions on the label. Nail polish remover can also be used for some stains, sparingly and carefully, washing thoroughly after using.
Your vinyl floor requires very little maintenance besides regular cleaning. Be careful when using new products and be sure to pre-test in places that are not noticeable to avoid permanent damage to your floor. Use care when moving furniture and appliances. Read all labels on cleaning products to be sure they are specifically designed for vinyl floors.
Paul Doughty owns HandyPro Handyman Services, specializing in minor repairs and improvements for homeowners and associations, businesses, apartment complexes and condominiums in Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs, Fountain, Monument, and neighboring cities and communities in El Paso County, Colorado.
80829, 80817, 80132, 80902, 80903, 80904, 80905, 80906, 80907, 80908, 80909, 80910, 80911, 80912, 80913, 80915, 80916, 80917, 80918, 80919, 80920, 80921, 80922, 80923, 80924
Wipe up all spills as soon as possible and mop regularly with a no-rinse floor cleaner. Use a floor stripper and cleaner for heavy duty cleaning and a no-wax shine keeper if it begins to dull over time.
Our handyman advises that you do not use detergents or abrasive cleaners. Certain mop and shine products may leave a dull film on the floor. Do not use paste wax or solvent-based polishes. Do not vacuum with a beater bar because it can visibly damage the floor surface and do not use highly abrasive scrubbing tools.
There are steps you can take to prevent damage to your vinyl floor. When moving heavy furniture or appliances, lay plywood and “walk” the item across it to avoid scuffing and tearing the vinyl. Use floor protectors on furniture to reduce indentation. The heavier the item, the wider the floor protector you need. Furniture with metal protectors can leave deep indentations and leave rust stains. Some rolling casters can also do damage. If you must use casters, the double-wheel type is your best option.
Place a mat at the entrance to reduce the amount of dirt that is tracked into the house. Rubber or latex- backed mats are not recommended because the chemical used to keep the backing from becoming brittle can permanently stain the floor. Use a non-staining vinyl-backed mat or a colorfast rug.
Our handyman advises preventative measures you can take immediately after installing your new vinyl floor. Be sure to protect sealed seams for at least 8 hours after installation to ensure a proper seam bond. If seams not protected until they’re dry, permanent damage can result.
Maintain room temperature of at least 65 degrees for 48 hours after installation to assure proper curing, setting and bonding of products. Take care to avoid spills and dirt for at least five days after installing as mopping is not recommended on a new vinyl floor because the adhesive needs time to dry thoroughly.
Vinyl flooring is quite durable, but it is not stain-proof. Many stains are removable, but some are not. Be careful when using stain removal products, testing them first in inconspicuous places to be sure they do not dull or damage the finish. Wipe spills quickly, as soon as the happen to reduce staining.
Read labels on floor stain removal products to be sure they are appropriate for vinyl floors. Many stains can be removed with alcohol, mineral spirits or turpentine. Scrub the area with floor stripper and cleaner, using a nonabrasive scrubbing pad. Read and follow all instructions on the label. Nail polish remover can also be used for some stains, sparingly and carefully, washing thoroughly after using.
Your vinyl floor requires very little maintenance besides regular cleaning. Be careful when using new products and be sure to pre-test in places that are not noticeable to avoid permanent damage to your floor. Use care when moving furniture and appliances. Read all labels on cleaning products to be sure they are specifically designed for vinyl floors.
Paul Doughty owns HandyPro Handyman Services, specializing in minor repairs and improvements for homeowners and associations, businesses, apartment complexes and condominiums in Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs, Fountain, Monument, and neighboring cities and communities in El Paso County, Colorado.
80829, 80817, 80132, 80902, 80903, 80904, 80905, 80906, 80907, 80908, 80909, 80910, 80911, 80912, 80913, 80915, 80916, 80917, 80918, 80919, 80920, 80921, 80922, 80923, 80924
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Colorado Springs Handyman Services has Tips for the Painting Contractor
When you handyman service applies a fresh coat of paint to the new home you just purchased, you probably prefer they use a latex or water-based paint. There are certain rules painting contractors use when preparing the pre-painted surface before applying fresh paint, to ensure proper adhesion, good coverage and a long-lasting finished project. Before applying fresh paint to an already painted surface, a good handyman will determine whether it was previously painted with latex or oil-based paint. The handyman knows he could experience problems when painting with latex, if he is painting over a surface with oil-based paint, without first using a primer. Some people just go ahead and prime when in doubt; however, painting contractors advise that it is better to minimize the number of paint coats on a surface.
Is it Latex or Oil Base?
There are several ways painting contractors will use to determine if an existing paint is latex or oil. Oil paints are smooth while latex paints have a more rubbery feel; this is easier to see with glossier paints than with flat or matte finish paints. Another method is to rub an area of the painted surface with alcohol or a paint de-glosser or liquid sandpaper. If the surface becomes slightly tacky or a small amount of the paint is removed then the existing paint is latex. This should not happen with oil-based paint.
Prep the Surface First
Your painting contractor should use a de-glosser or liquid sandpaper to remove the gloss and clean the surface before painting on a surface previously painted with latex paint. This will make the next coat of paint adhere more firmly to the surface with minimal, if any, sanding required. The tackiness will normally disappear within an hour. A surface where oil-based paint was used should be lightly sanded and primed with a quality primer like Kilz, before applying a fresh coat of latex paint.
If there are holes to be filled, the handyman should use proper filler. The old-time spackle is fine for walls of plaster, but today’s softer walls of paper-coated drywall are better filled with a softer product. Spackle works best when the container is new; it dries out over time. Attempting to renew it by adding moist spackle to it is like adding sand to new spackle. It also causes it to lose strength, go on the wall lumpy and it’s hard to smooth with the trowel. A newer, lightweight spackle is a workable product that dries quickly and can be painted over within 30 minutes. This is great if you’re in the middle of painting and you notice a small hole that was missed in preparation.
Proper preparation is important before applying a fresh coat of paint; an unprepared surface will result in an unsatisfactory finished project. The rewards of a durable finish are well worth the extra effort in preparation of the surface.
Paul Doughty owns HandyPro Handyman Services, a one-stop, professional, honest handyman service that does a wide variety of jobs with high-quality workmanship. Paul Doughty serves consumers and businesses in Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs, Fountain, Monument, and neighboring cities and communities in El Paso County, Colorado.
80829, 80817, 80132, 80902, 80903, 80904, 80905, 80906, 80907, 80908, 80909, 80910, 80911, 80912, 80913, 80915, 80916, 80917, 80918, 80919, 80920, 80921, 80922, 80923, 80924
HandyPro Handyman Services completes everything on your to-do list; in over 1600 service 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, Repair Squeaky door, Install Molding and Trim, Security Services, Stained Glass, Door Repair/Install, Wall Repair, Painting Kitchen, Insulation, Concrete & Masonry, Repair Gutters, Remove Wallpaper, Replace Ceiling Fan, Caulk Awnings and Siding, Install Shelves, Organizers, Ceramic Tile, Window Well Covers, Replace Bathroom Fan, Draperies, Blinds and Shades, Glass & Mirror, Decks, and much more just ask!!
Is it Latex or Oil Base?
There are several ways painting contractors will use to determine if an existing paint is latex or oil. Oil paints are smooth while latex paints have a more rubbery feel; this is easier to see with glossier paints than with flat or matte finish paints. Another method is to rub an area of the painted surface with alcohol or a paint de-glosser or liquid sandpaper. If the surface becomes slightly tacky or a small amount of the paint is removed then the existing paint is latex. This should not happen with oil-based paint.
Prep the Surface First
Your painting contractor should use a de-glosser or liquid sandpaper to remove the gloss and clean the surface before painting on a surface previously painted with latex paint. This will make the next coat of paint adhere more firmly to the surface with minimal, if any, sanding required. The tackiness will normally disappear within an hour. A surface where oil-based paint was used should be lightly sanded and primed with a quality primer like Kilz, before applying a fresh coat of latex paint.
If there are holes to be filled, the handyman should use proper filler. The old-time spackle is fine for walls of plaster, but today’s softer walls of paper-coated drywall are better filled with a softer product. Spackle works best when the container is new; it dries out over time. Attempting to renew it by adding moist spackle to it is like adding sand to new spackle. It also causes it to lose strength, go on the wall lumpy and it’s hard to smooth with the trowel. A newer, lightweight spackle is a workable product that dries quickly and can be painted over within 30 minutes. This is great if you’re in the middle of painting and you notice a small hole that was missed in preparation.
Proper preparation is important before applying a fresh coat of paint; an unprepared surface will result in an unsatisfactory finished project. The rewards of a durable finish are well worth the extra effort in preparation of the surface.
Paul Doughty owns HandyPro Handyman Services, a one-stop, professional, honest handyman service that does a wide variety of jobs with high-quality workmanship. Paul Doughty serves consumers and businesses in Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs, Fountain, Monument, and neighboring cities and communities in El Paso County, Colorado.
80829, 80817, 80132, 80902, 80903, 80904, 80905, 80906, 80907, 80908, 80909, 80910, 80911, 80912, 80913, 80915, 80916, 80917, 80918, 80919, 80920, 80921, 80922, 80923, 80924
HandyPro Handyman Services completes everything on your to-do list; in over 1600 service 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, Repair Squeaky door, Install Molding and Trim, Security Services, Stained Glass, Door Repair/Install, Wall Repair, Painting Kitchen, Insulation, Concrete & Masonry, Repair Gutters, Remove Wallpaper, Replace Ceiling Fan, Caulk Awnings and Siding, Install Shelves, Organizers, Ceramic Tile, Window Well Covers, Replace Bathroom Fan, Draperies, Blinds and Shades, Glass & Mirror, Decks, and much more just ask!!
Handyman Service and Home Improvement Tips form your Local Colorado Springs Handyman
With the condition of today’s market and declining home values, homeowners are asking themselves how home improvement will affect the resale value of their home. The most important thing to consider if you are making improvements to sell your home is: Would the average homebuyer be likely to do the same if they buy your home? If the answer is yes, then you would be more likely to recover the cost; if the answer is no, then you are not increasing the resale value with the improvement.
Home Repair Tips from your Local Colorado Springs Handyman Service
An important factor to consider when making home improvements is the area the home is located in. For example, it would not be cost effective at all to build a large back yard deck surrounding a built-in swimming pool if you live in a cool climate area. A gazebo and hot tub might not be the best idea for a home in an area of lower-end houses where people do not typically have these things.
On the other hand, though some improvements may not generate the return of your investment by adding resale value to your home, they can add to your enjoyment of the home. If you plan to stay in your home for 5 – 10 years and you can afford to make the improvements then why not? If you really like the idea of a gazebo and hot tub and the yard is large enough to accommodate, then perhaps it will be money well spent. Just ask yourself if you could be content with only a 50% return on the investment in exchange for the years of enjoyment.
Estimated Amount of Return on Home Repairs
Interior/exterior paint 70 – 300%
New flooring/carpet 70 – 300%
Kitchen and Bath remodeling 50 – 300%
Addition to home 40 – 60%
New heating/Central Air 50%
Bathroom Addition 75 – 100%
Finished Basement 55%
Landscaping, sprinklers 50%
Patio or deck 50%
Replacement windows 30%
New siding 65%
Energy efficient items 30%
Swimming pool 50%
Garage 75 – 100%
The potential return for these investments is determined by how appropriate they are to the neighborhood. A lower to middle class neighborhood is not the place to invest in expensive landscaping or a swimming pool. The potential buyer cannot afford to buy or maintain this type of improvement. Also consider the need for the improvement. If the kitchen and bathrooms are clean and functional, but you just don’t like the colors, then your return will be minimized. If the toilet is broken and the shower enclosure is old and moldy, then by all means, repair, replace and remodel. Use common sense; consider need and location when deciding on home improvement projects to do.
Paul Doughty owns HandyPro Handyman Services, a one-stop, professional, honest handyman service that performs minor repairs and improvements for homeowners and associations, businesses, apartment complexes and condominiums in Manitou Springs, Fountain, Monument, Colorado Springs and nearby cities and communities in El Paso County, Colorado.
80829, 80817, 80132, 80902, 80903, 80904, 80905, 80906, 80907, 80908, 80909, 80910, 80911, 80912, 80913, 80915, 80916, 80917, 80918, 80919, 80920, 80921, 80922, 80923, 80924
HandyPro Handyman Services completes everything on your to-do list; in over 1600 service 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, Repair Squeaky door, Install Molding and Trim, Security Services, Stained Glass, Door Repair/Install, Wall Repair, Painting Kitchen, Insulation, Concrete & Masonry, Repair Gutters, Remove Wallpaper, Replace Ceiling Fan, Caulk Awnings and Siding, Install Shelves, Organizers, Ceramic Tile, Window Well Covers, Replace Bathroom Fan, Draperies, Blinds and Shades, Glass & Mirror, Decks, and much more just ask!!
Home Repair Tips from your Local Colorado Springs Handyman Service
An important factor to consider when making home improvements is the area the home is located in. For example, it would not be cost effective at all to build a large back yard deck surrounding a built-in swimming pool if you live in a cool climate area. A gazebo and hot tub might not be the best idea for a home in an area of lower-end houses where people do not typically have these things.
On the other hand, though some improvements may not generate the return of your investment by adding resale value to your home, they can add to your enjoyment of the home. If you plan to stay in your home for 5 – 10 years and you can afford to make the improvements then why not? If you really like the idea of a gazebo and hot tub and the yard is large enough to accommodate, then perhaps it will be money well spent. Just ask yourself if you could be content with only a 50% return on the investment in exchange for the years of enjoyment.
Estimated Amount of Return on Home Repairs
Interior/exterior paint 70 – 300%
New flooring/carpet 70 – 300%
Kitchen and Bath remodeling 50 – 300%
Addition to home 40 – 60%
New heating/Central Air 50%
Bathroom Addition 75 – 100%
Finished Basement 55%
Landscaping, sprinklers 50%
Patio or deck 50%
Replacement windows 30%
New siding 65%
Energy efficient items 30%
Swimming pool 50%
Garage 75 – 100%
The potential return for these investments is determined by how appropriate they are to the neighborhood. A lower to middle class neighborhood is not the place to invest in expensive landscaping or a swimming pool. The potential buyer cannot afford to buy or maintain this type of improvement. Also consider the need for the improvement. If the kitchen and bathrooms are clean and functional, but you just don’t like the colors, then your return will be minimized. If the toilet is broken and the shower enclosure is old and moldy, then by all means, repair, replace and remodel. Use common sense; consider need and location when deciding on home improvement projects to do.
Paul Doughty owns HandyPro Handyman Services, a one-stop, professional, honest handyman service that performs minor repairs and improvements for homeowners and associations, businesses, apartment complexes and condominiums in Manitou Springs, Fountain, Monument, Colorado Springs and nearby cities and communities in El Paso County, Colorado.
80829, 80817, 80132, 80902, 80903, 80904, 80905, 80906, 80907, 80908, 80909, 80910, 80911, 80912, 80913, 80915, 80916, 80917, 80918, 80919, 80920, 80921, 80922, 80923, 80924
HandyPro Handyman Services completes everything on your to-do list; in over 1600 service 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, Repair Squeaky door, Install Molding and Trim, Security Services, Stained Glass, Door Repair/Install, Wall Repair, Painting Kitchen, Insulation, Concrete & Masonry, Repair Gutters, Remove Wallpaper, Replace Ceiling Fan, Caulk Awnings and Siding, Install Shelves, Organizers, Ceramic Tile, Window Well Covers, Replace Bathroom Fan, Draperies, Blinds and Shades, Glass & Mirror, Decks, and much more just ask!!
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Handyman Services: Weatherizing to Save Energy - Tips from the Colorado Springs Handyman
With energy costs constantly on the rise consumers are becoming more conscious of energy conservation. With winter approaching, handyman services and homeowners are busy with seasonal maintenance and home weatherizing projects. Here are some things you can do to now to prepare for winter:
For Drafty Doors and Windows: Check the caulk around the windows. If it is dry, brittle and crumbling, scrape it out and run a new bead of caulk. This will keep heat from escaping and the cold from getting in. Check the weather stripping around the door to be sure it isn’t torn; replace if necessary.
Automatic Programmable Thermostat: You can save up to 20% on your heating bill by turning back the thermostat when they go to sleep or are out of the house for the day. Installing a programmable thermostat will eliminate the need to always remember to do this. Programmable thermostats also save money on AC bills in the summer for those who have central air.
How is Your Attic Insulation? Heat rises, so be sure you have adequate insulation in the attic. An attic fan and proper ventilation also prevents the rafters from overheating in the summer.
Adjust the Heat Vents: Close the vents in rooms that are rarely used to reduce the amount of energy used to heat the home.
Replace your Furnace Filter. Be sure to replace the furnace filter every month to keep the furnace working efficiently. A clogged filter creates extra strain on the blower motor and restricts air-flow. Also, have the furnace professionally inspected and cleaned periodically to be sure it is operating safely and efficiently.
Check your Humidifier. A home with the proper level of humidity will feel warmer than one that is too dry. Humidity also helps prevent health issues including dry mouth and itchy skin, and upper respiratory problems. Be sure the humidifier is working properly and there are no leaks.
These are just a few items that will help conserve on energy used to heat your home this winter. The cost of doing all the above will quickly pay for itself in energy savings.
Paul Doughty owns HandyPro Handyman Services, a company of professionals who handle most seasonal home maintenance including weatherizing homes to reduce energy costs. HandyPro offers affordable solutions to a wide variety of home repairs and building maintenance. Paul serves homeowners and commercial business owners in El Paso County, Colorado Springs and neighboring cities and communities.
For Drafty Doors and Windows: Check the caulk around the windows. If it is dry, brittle and crumbling, scrape it out and run a new bead of caulk. This will keep heat from escaping and the cold from getting in. Check the weather stripping around the door to be sure it isn’t torn; replace if necessary.
Automatic Programmable Thermostat: You can save up to 20% on your heating bill by turning back the thermostat when they go to sleep or are out of the house for the day. Installing a programmable thermostat will eliminate the need to always remember to do this. Programmable thermostats also save money on AC bills in the summer for those who have central air.
How is Your Attic Insulation? Heat rises, so be sure you have adequate insulation in the attic. An attic fan and proper ventilation also prevents the rafters from overheating in the summer.
Adjust the Heat Vents: Close the vents in rooms that are rarely used to reduce the amount of energy used to heat the home.
Replace your Furnace Filter. Be sure to replace the furnace filter every month to keep the furnace working efficiently. A clogged filter creates extra strain on the blower motor and restricts air-flow. Also, have the furnace professionally inspected and cleaned periodically to be sure it is operating safely and efficiently.
Check your Humidifier. A home with the proper level of humidity will feel warmer than one that is too dry. Humidity also helps prevent health issues including dry mouth and itchy skin, and upper respiratory problems. Be sure the humidifier is working properly and there are no leaks.
These are just a few items that will help conserve on energy used to heat your home this winter. The cost of doing all the above will quickly pay for itself in energy savings.
Paul Doughty owns HandyPro Handyman Services, a company of professionals who handle most seasonal home maintenance including weatherizing homes to reduce energy costs. HandyPro offers affordable solutions to a wide variety of home repairs and building maintenance. Paul serves homeowners and commercial business owners in El Paso County, Colorado Springs and neighboring cities and communities.
Handyman Service: Gutter Cleaning and Repair Tips from your Local Colorado Springs Handyman
Gutters and downspouts are designed to help protect the foundation of your home by directing rain water away. Handyman services and homeowners will be busy in the next couple months cleaning gutters, repairing gutters or having new gutters installed before winter.
This is the time to call your local handyman service or, if you are a do-it-yourselfer, here are some gutter maintenance tips:
1. Clean leaves, twigs and other debris from the gutters, and make sure the downspouts are clear to allow water run-off. Be sure gutters are sloped properly to allow water to flow and extensions are directing the water where you want it to go.
2. Make sure the downspouts and extensions allow water to drain far enough away from the home to avoid puddles in the grass.
3. If you have lots of trees around your home, consider putting screen over the gutters to keep most debris out and reduce gutter cleaning work.
4. Check the seams in the gutters and downspouts for leaks. If the seams are leaking, clean the seam with a wire brush to remove old caulk or adhesive, and re-caulk with a silicone caulk. If gutters are in very bad shape and in need of replacing, consider having seamless gutters installed.
5. Make sure gutters are secure with the proper length gutter spikes going right into the rafters. When gutters get weighed down from debris, sometimes the nails loosen and need to be pounded back in.
Homeowners should check their gutters before the heavy storm and rain season. Properly working gutters allow water to drain quickly and away from the house to avoid future problems.
Gutter maintenance is fairly simple for the professional, but the average homeowner, especially senior citizens, may not be comfortable working on their roof or being on ladders. This is one example of a home maintenance project that is better left to the professional handyman service.
Paul Doughty owns HandyPro Handyman Services, a company of professionals who handle most seasonal home maintenance including gutter cleaning and new gutter installation. Handypro offers affordable solutions to a wide variety of home repairs and building maintenance. Paul serves homeowners and commercial business owners in El Paso County, Colorado Springs and neighboring cities and communities.
This is the time to call your local handyman service or, if you are a do-it-yourselfer, here are some gutter maintenance tips:
1. Clean leaves, twigs and other debris from the gutters, and make sure the downspouts are clear to allow water run-off. Be sure gutters are sloped properly to allow water to flow and extensions are directing the water where you want it to go.
2. Make sure the downspouts and extensions allow water to drain far enough away from the home to avoid puddles in the grass.
3. If you have lots of trees around your home, consider putting screen over the gutters to keep most debris out and reduce gutter cleaning work.
4. Check the seams in the gutters and downspouts for leaks. If the seams are leaking, clean the seam with a wire brush to remove old caulk or adhesive, and re-caulk with a silicone caulk. If gutters are in very bad shape and in need of replacing, consider having seamless gutters installed.
5. Make sure gutters are secure with the proper length gutter spikes going right into the rafters. When gutters get weighed down from debris, sometimes the nails loosen and need to be pounded back in.
Homeowners should check their gutters before the heavy storm and rain season. Properly working gutters allow water to drain quickly and away from the house to avoid future problems.
Gutter maintenance is fairly simple for the professional, but the average homeowner, especially senior citizens, may not be comfortable working on their roof or being on ladders. This is one example of a home maintenance project that is better left to the professional handyman service.
Paul Doughty owns HandyPro Handyman Services, a company of professionals who handle most seasonal home maintenance including gutter cleaning and new gutter installation. Handypro offers affordable solutions to a wide variety of home repairs and building maintenance. Paul serves homeowners and commercial business owners in El Paso County, Colorado Springs and neighboring cities and communities.
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