#Handy Homeowner

[homeimprovementrefferal]

A Beginner's Guide To Basic Home Repairs

A Beginner's Guide To Basic Home Repairs - #homeimprovementreferral #Cleaning, #HomeImprovement, #HomeRepair, #Renovation, #Tips - https://www.homeimprovementreferral.com/a-beginners-guide-to-basic-home-repairs-2023-07/

[scarlettohairdye]

Home Ownership Was a Mistake

This is for @trickybonmot, who may or may not use some of these stories in a fic.

Okay. So.

In the year of our lord 2010, my wife and I were lucky enough to be gifted $20k by my parents, which in those days (given it was a historically low point for real estate prices in Seattle) was enough for a down payment on a house. It was an astounding confluence of luck and privilege that led to us being homeowners, because if they gave us the same money now it would go precisely nowhere.

Anyway, it was not enough money for a large house, or a fancy house. We looked at a lot of places, only some of which were move-in ready (and one of which was absolutely just a tear-down) and eventually settled on our current place, which is a 1910 bungalow with a detached garage that was finished and turned into a studio.

Was it the most aesthetically pleasing house when we bought it? No. The walls were white, the carpet was light beige, and the paint had seen better days. That said, it was move-in ready and the owner was pretty desperate to sell, so we took it!

The inspector let us know that some of the wiring was still the old knob-and-tube, so we'd want that updated sooner rather than later, but it looked pretty good. About half the outlets were grounded, so it didn't stop us from plugging in three-prong appliances. We just had to use more extension cords than maybe we'd prefer.

The Electrical

The first big house thing we paid for was to have the entire place rewired. Our circuit breaker was a mystery, we didn't have enough outlets, and we were tired of being stuck with specific layouts of our stuff due to the lack of grounded outlets. We were expecting about half the wiring to be up to code, and the rest would need an update.

Spoiler alert: HAHAHAHAHAHA.

The rewiring took about a week, and every morning the electrician sat down with us and told us what new fire trap he'd uncovered.

"Yeah, so the knob and tube wiring going to the lights in the ceiling? Knob and tube gets hot when it's running, and yours is under three layers of insulation."

"You know how you thought your outlets were grounded? They weren't, actually, the ground wire just went elsewhere into the house and wasn't connected to anything."

"So there's wiring in your crawlspace? Whoever put that in nailed some sheets of wood paneling over it, so we had to rip the wood paneling out to access it."

I think the job was about $15k when it was done, we had many many more outlets, and our house was no longer one bad day from lighting itself on fire. Victory, I guess?

The Studio Window

This was leaking a bit, and we knew it was leaking when we moved in. (South facing walls get all the weather in our region.) We were not handy enough to replace it ourselves at the time and we also didn't have money because I got laid off shortly after we bought the house and was making my living doing costume commissions. Solution: Trade costuming work to an acquaintance who did carpentry.

The window, we discovered, was not so much a finished window as it was a single sheet of glass sandwiched between some boards.

Badly.

The carpenter was not entirely she that she was qualified for the job, but she did manage to remove the single sheet of glass and replace it with a window that was insulated and actually capable of opening. She used caulk around it. It was way better than we had before. Maybe someday we'll have both studio windows replaced by a contractor who actually does windows, but this is not that day!

The Siding

The cedar shingles were no longer cutting it at a certain point, so we had the house resided. (Houses are money pits, in case you didn't know.) This was a $30k job (MONEY PIT!) and had several layers of badness.

Bad: Our house had no insulation. It was cedar shingles over the original siding, with nothing in between that original siding and our INTERIOR WALLS. There was occasionally a newspaper. Our PM asked if we wanted insulation? And we said yes, please!!! We did not have a lot of time to think about insulation or research the best type, so it's just sheets of the pink fiberglass stuff in there, but it exists and we have it now!

Worse: Underneath our laundry room was a horrorshow. The laundry room is an addition that was added to our house probably sometime in the 50s? And, uh...

Well, the siding guys pulled off the siding, took a look at what was under it, and immediately called the project manager. The project manager came out, took a look, and then called us. He said that the siding guys thought it really needed to be reinforced and stabilized before they re-sided it, which is very fair, because I think the people who built it originally were drunk when they did it. It was a fucking Wild West cowboy construction situation under there.

Yes, you heard that right: A LOAD-BEARING SHINGLE.

Our project manager also informed us that the siding guys couldn't do the reinforcement, because they're just siding guys. They don't do structural. This is very fair.

It also needed to be done by Monday so we could stay on schedule for the siding work.

We learned this on Friday.

I immediately called my general contractor dad and got his voicemail, because (I remembered belatedly) he was in Mexico getting dental surgery. There was absolutely no way we could get another contractor out to do the work over a single weekend.

It was up to us.

My wife and I (mostly my wife) went HAM on it. We rented big jacks from the tool library to prop the laundry room up while we replaced one of the entirely rotten support poles. One of the big telephone poles was so wrecked with dry rot we could kick it out of place. (It didn't even touch the BIG ROCK that was supposed to be its foundation!!! It was floating!!!) Several of the joists were also fucked, so we ran new joists alongside them and married them together. My wife dug holes while crouched in a 4' high space, filled the holes with gravel, compacted it by putting a piece of wood on top of it and hitting it with a mallet, and then installed an entire additional support system from 4x4s and deck blocks. She actually attached the support system TO THE FUCKING HOUSE, which was a big improvement from the way it was originally held on by vibes and paint.

Here's a tasty little before and after:

(Yeah, see how that visible joist at the front just... stops at the far left? There's a new joist right behind it now.)

This was completed with resounding cries of, "Good enough!" and "It's better than it was before!" The siding guys thought it was fine and sided over it. Someday hopefully we will be able to afford to tear the whole thing down and rebuild it with a properly poured foundation, but in the meantime the spin cycle on the washing machine no longer shakes the whole house. Victory?!

Ridiculous: The purple paint saga. My wife and I are lesbians who tend toward maximalism in our decoration style. Construction companies find this baffling. We paid extra to our siding company to get the extended color choices (if you order the siding with the color baked in it lasts longer, but you're limited to a particular range of colors) and spoiler alert: 90% of them are boring as fuck. We basically paid extra to have access to 400 shades of white and 400 more shades of beige. There were like three saturated colors in the whole book. Pathetic.

Anyway, we chose the one nice teal that was available and decided we'd paint the door purple, since all the purple colors were gray at best. The project manager then forgot to put in our order, and when he remembered he'd forgotten, ordering our siding through his company would have pushed back the start time by six weeks. We could still make the original start time if we ordered through a different company doing the same thing, though!

Me, immediately: And we wouldn't be restricted to your color palette, right? Him: Yeah, they can do custom colors. Me, slapping down a color card called "Fully Purple": MAKE IT PURPLE.

Bless this man, he went to the siding company and asked for Fully Purple. They told him they couldn't do that color, and also is he sure anyone wants this color? He called them on the phone and informed them yes, we did want that color, and also that he'd worked for them and he knew damn well they could do that color, they'd just have to custom mix it, so they needed to do their fucking jobs. Suitably chastened, they finally sent us a sample of the siding, and it was... okay. It was purple for sure, but a little de-saturated. Not the purple of our hearts.

I asked if they'd actually started manufacturing our siding yet or just sent the color sample. The project manager confirmed they hadn't, and if we ordered this imperfectly-purple siding now, it would be several weeks before we could get started.

"We're gonna paint," I decided, and our project manager put in the orders.

The paint store called him and said, "Hey, are you sure you want this color?" Yes, he assured them, that's the right color.

The guys doing the painting opened up the can and then called him and said, "Are you sure this color?" and he told them yes! They want that color!

At this point I told him he should just start responding with, "They're lesbians!!! Yes! They want the purple! They're lesbians!!!"

Eventually we cleared every hurdle god and the construction industry put in front of us, and now our house is Fully Purple.

It also has insulation, wiring that won't kill us, and a laundry room that hopefully won't collapse anytime soon. We got a heat pump installed that took shockingly little time and worked immediately, and our next project will be having the roof redone. Check back in to find out what fresh horror awaits us then! I think it'll be a second roof under our existing roof made of lead and asbestos tiles, probably!

[hommiesweet]

Using Mosaic Tiles to Add Value to Your Property: A Comprehensive Guide

Imagine walking into a home where the first thing that catches your eye is a stunning mosaic tile entryway, its intricate patterns telling a story of craftsmanship and elegance. This is the power of mosaic tiles - small pieces of art that can transform a space and significantly boost a property's value. Let's embark on a journey to discover how these tiny treasures can make a big impact on your home's worth and appeal.

The Timeless Appeal of Mosaic Tiles

Mosaic tiles have been adorning homes for thousands of years, from ancient Roman villas to Byzantine churches. Today, they're experiencing a renaissance in modern homes, bringing a touch of timeless beauty to contemporary spaces. A trip to your local ceramic tile shop will reveal an astounding array of options, from classic designs to cutting-edge patterns.

According to a recent National Association of Realtors report, homes with high-quality tile work can see up to a 5-7% increase in value. That's a significant return on investment for a relatively simple upgrade. But how do you choose the right mosaic tiles for your home?

Choosing the Right Mosaic Tiles for Your Home

When you step into a ceramic tile shop, the choices can be overwhelming. But fear not - choosing the perfect mosaic tiles for your home is an adventure in creativity. Consider the material - ceramic, glass, stone, or metal - each brings its own unique character to your space. Think about size too; while all mosaic tiles are small, they can range from tiny 1/4 inch pieces to larger 2 inch squares, each creating a different effect.

Color is another crucial factor. Light-colored mosaic tiles can make a room feel more spacious and airy, perfect for small bathrooms or kitchens. Darker tones, on the other hand, can add depth and coziness to larger spaces. And don't forget about patterns - from simple geometric designs to complex pictorial scenes, the pattern of your mosaic tiles can set the tone for the entire room.

Lastly, consider the grout. It's not just the glue that holds your tiles together; it's an design element in its own right. A contrasting grout color can make your mosaic tiles pop, while a matching color can create a more subtle, unified look.

Where to Use Mosaic Tiles for Maximum Impact

Now that you've chosen your perfect mosaic tiles, where should you use them to add the most value to your property? Let's take a tour through a home and explore the possibilities.

We'll start in the kitchen, where a mosaic tile backsplash can be the star of the show. It not only protects your walls from splashes and spills but also adds a pop of color and personality. According to a study by Houzz, 87% of homeowners upgrading their kitchens chose to install new backsplashes, with mosaic tiles being a popular choice.

Moving to the bathroom, mosaic tiles reign supreme. They're water-resistant, easy to clean, and can add a spa-like luxury to your space. Picture a shower enclosure with shimmering glass mosaic tiles, or a vanity backsplash that catches the light just so.

In the entryway, mosaic tiles can make a lasting first impression. A beautiful mosaic floor or accent wall sets the tone for your entire home, welcoming guests with a touch of artistry.

Don't forget about outdoor spaces! A plain patio can be transformed into a Mediterranean-inspired retreat with the right mosaic tiles. They're durable enough to withstand the elements and can add a touch of sophistication to your outdoor living areas.

Finally, consider giving your fireplace a facelift with mosaic tiles. A tiled surround can turn a boring fireplace into a stunning centerpiece, making a big impact in your living room with a relatively small investment.

The DIY Route vs. The Professional Touch

For the handy homeowner, installing mosaic tiles can be a rewarding DIY project. Many ceramic tile shops offer DIY-friendly options, such as mosaic sheets that make installation easier. The process involves preparing the surface, planning your layout, applying adhesive, placing the tiles, grouting, and finally cleaning and sealing.

However, if you're not confident in your DIY skills or you're dealing with a large or complex project, hiring a professional can ensure a flawless finish. Many ceramic tile shops can recommend reputable installers in your area. According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost to install mosaic tiles ranges from $10 to $30 per square foot, including materials and labor. While this might seem steep, remember that quality installation can significantly impact the value added to your home.

Maintaining Your Mosaic Masterpiece

To keep your mosaic tiles looking their best and maintain your property's value, regular maintenance is key. Think of it as caring for a work of art - which, in essence, it is. Clean your tiles regularly with a pH-neutral cleaner, avoiding harsh chemicals that can damage the tiles or grout. Reseal grout lines annually to prevent staining and moisture penetration. And if you notice any loose or damaged tiles, address them promptly to prevent further issues.

The ROI of Mosaic Tiles

While the upfront cost of mosaic tiles might be higher than some alternatives, the return on investment can be substantial. A study by Remodeling Magazine found that minor kitchen remodels, which often include new tile work, can recoup up to 80% of their cost at resale.

Moreover, homes with unique, high-quality features like custom mosaic tile work tend to sell faster. In a competitive real estate market, these distinctive touches can give your property a significant edge. It's not just about the monetary value - it's about creating a home that stands out in potential buyers' minds.

Eco-Friendly Options and Current Trends

For the environmentally conscious homeowner, many ceramic tile shops now offer eco-friendly mosaic tile options. These can include recycled glass tiles, tiles made from sustainable materials like bamboo or cork, or locally sourced stone tiles to reduce transportation emissions. Using sustainable materials not only adds value to your home but also appeals to the growing market of eco-conscious buyers.

As for current trends, geometric patterns are having a moment, as are neutral color palettes with pops of bold color. Large-format mosaic designs are gaining popularity, and metallic and iridescent finishes are adding a touch of glamour to many homes. Staying current with these trends can help ensure your home feels modern and appealing to potential buyers.

Conclusion: Small Tiles, Big Value

From ancient art form to modern design staple, mosaic tiles have stood the test of time. Their versatility, durability, and sheer beauty make them an excellent choice for homeowners looking to add value to their property.

Whether you're planning a major renovation or just want to update a small area, mosaic tiles offer endless possibilities. With careful selection from your ceramic tile shop and proper installation, these tiny pieces of art can have a big impact on your home's value and appeal.

Remember, the key to success with mosaic tiles is quality - in materials, design, and installation. So take your time, plan carefully, and don't be afraid to seek professional help if needed. The result will be a beautiful, valuable addition to your home that you'll enjoy for years to come. After all, in the world of home improvement, sometimes the smallest details can make the biggest difference.

[parama2001]

Mastering the Art of Plumbing: Essential Tips and Tricks for Every Homeowner

Introduction: Plumbing is the circulatory system of your home, quietly working behind the scenes to keep everything flowing smoothly. From the moment you turn on the faucet to the flush of the toilet, plumbing plays a crucial role in our daily lives. However, when plumbing issues arise, they can quickly turn into a homeowner's worst nightmare. But fear not! With the right knowledge and a few handy tips, you can become a plumbing pro in no time.

Understanding Your Plumbing System: Before diving into fixing leaks or unclogging drains, it's essential to have a basic understanding of your home's plumbing system. Typically, plumbing consists of two subsystems: the water supply system and the drainage system. The water supply system brings fresh water into your home, while the drainage system removes wastewater.

Common Plumbing Issues and Solutions:

Leaky Faucets: A dripping faucet may seem like a minor annoyance, but it can waste a significant amount of water over time. Usually, a leaky faucet can be fixed by replacing a worn-out washer or O-ring. Remember to turn off the water supply before attempting any repairs.

Clogged Drains: Whether it's in the kitchen sink, bathroom shower, or toilet, clogged drains are a common plumbing problem. For minor clogs, a plunger or plumbing snake can often do the trick. Avoid using chemical drain cleaners as they can damage your pipes over time.

Running Toilet: A toilet that continues to run after flushing can waste gallons of water and inflate your water bill. In most cases, a running toilet is caused by a faulty flapper or fill valve. Replacing these components is relatively simple and can save you money in the long run.

Low Water Pressure: If your faucets are trickling instead of flowing, low water pressure may be the culprit. Potential causes include mineral buildup in the pipes, a faulty pressure regulator, or a partially closed shut-off valve. Checking these components and cleaning or replacing them as needed can help restore proper water pressure.

Frozen Pipes: During the winter months, exposed pipes are susceptible to freezing, which can lead to burst pipes and costly water damage. Insulating your pipes and keeping your home adequately heated can prevent this issue. If you suspect a frozen pipe, never use an open flame to thaw it—instead, use a hairdryer or heating pad.

DIY Plumbing Tips:

Invest in Quality Tools: A well-equipped toolbox is essential for any DIY plumber. Basic tools like wrenches, pliers, and pipe cutters will come in handy for most plumbing projects.

Know Your Shut-Off Valves: Familiarize yourself with the location of your home's main water shut-off valve, as well as individual shut-off valves for sinks, toilets, and appliances. Knowing how to turn off the water in an emergency can prevent water damage to your home.

Practice Preventative Maintenance: Regularly inspecting your plumbing system for leaks, corrosion, or other signs of damage can help catch potential issues before they escalate into major problems. Additionally, scheduling annual professional inspections can identify hidden issues early on.

Conclusion: While some plumbing tasks may require the expertise of a licensed plumber, many common issues can be resolved with a little DIY know-how. By understanding how your plumbing system works and learning some basic maintenance techniques, you can save time, money, and stress in the long run. So don't let plumbing problems dampen your spirits—empower yourself with knowledge and tackle them head-on!

[musicinstrumentsins]

The Unexpected Can Happen: Protecting Your Investment with Bassoon Coverage

The bassoon is a woodwind instrument with its rich, expressive voice, which adds depth and color to orchestral pieces and solo works that take our breath away. To a bassoonist, the dearest instrument is not just wood and metal; it is a companion that walks together with him/her on the musical road. Although dedication and practice will be the primary factors that will help you to improve your skills, you should also remember to take care of your skills by using proper protection and care.

Here's why considering bassoon protection is essential for safeguarding your instrument and ensuring peace of mind:

Safeguarding Against Accidents

Sadly, incidents occur, and even the most careful musicians can make mistakes. A slip-on stage, an incident in transit, or falling off from the music stand – all these situations can cause severe harm to your delicate bassoon. Fixing the broken keys, the cracked joints, or the damaged reeds is expensive. Therefore, it may be difficult for you to pay for all these expenses, and you might not even be able to continue your music journey. The Bassoon insurance is a financial safety net that protects you from the costs of accidental damage and helps restore your treasure to you as soon as possible.

Theft: A Threat You Can't Ignore

Bringing your bassoon to a band practice, a performance, or a car trunk is not a good idea since it runs the risk of being stolen. These precious instruments are always in the view of opportunistic thieves. Although the case-locking option is a handy security measure, it can be easily broken. Insurance policies provide you with financial compensation to help you buy a new bassoon, thus allowing you to get back to playing.

Environmental Threats

Extreme heat, cold, or humidity variations can be a real problem for your bassoon. Scorching temperatures can cause cracks and warping, while arid conditions can result in loose joints and leakages. The pad and corks of an instrument are prone to mold growth when exposed to moisture. This can be an accelerating factor for its damage. The primary investment should be purchasing a good case with the correct humidity control features, but even then, unexpected situations can occur.

Loss: A Stressful Ordeal

Being unable to find your bassoon at the moment of truth is a nerve-racking experience, and losing it on the way is even more stressful. Conventional homeowner’s or renter’s coverage might not be appropriate for expensive instruments. Bassoon coverage is a cover that protects you against loss and reimburses you financially to some extent, restoring the cherished instrument.

Investing in an instrument is not only about the instrument itself but also about protecting the investment that you have made. The bassoon is one of many expensive items that complete your musical setup. Mouthpieces, reeds, cases, and stands are all the primary instruments needed for instrument care and performance. Insurance policies usually cover these accessories as well, which in turn provides complete insurance protection for your total musical investment.

The Priceless Commodity is the Peace of Mind

Having the instrument, you love and trust gives you peace of mind and lets you focus on what is important – making music. You will be able to perform with confidence, rehearse without worries, and travel to places without always expecting damage, theft, or loss. Bassoon coverage is your guardian angel, giving you a confidence boost to enjoy your beloved instrument at total capacity.

Protecting Your Passion

Owning a high-quality bassoon is an investment in your love of music. Properly caring for the instrument adds years to its life and ensures it works at the best level. But, in this case, unforeseen events are still possible. The Bassoon insurance is an additional security layer that protects your investment from financial risks and allows you to continue your musical journey without disruptions.

[floatingonalowvibe]

chapter two - part two

"ok Barnaby, I have just one question." My dad started. I saw the annoyed look on Bernards face. "Where the have are we?!"

"First, it's Bernard, and second, you're at the north pole."

" And why exactly am I at the north pole?"

"Because the last Santa fell off the roof, and you put on the suit, and you are now Santa. Did you not read card?" He said, placing his hands on his hips.

My dad looked bewildered. He opened his mouth trying to find words. "I am not Santa claus! Look, I've had a long night, and my back hurts. Have you ever tried to fit a kayak down a chimney? I just wanna go home."

As he said that, I looked around as some of the surrounding elves looked at him with hints of sadness in their eyes.

"I don't think you should say things like that, dad." I said, looking at him.

"Not right now d/n" he said, not even looking at me.

I pursed my lips, really pissed at him.

"That's not my name...." I said under my breath.

"What is your name?" Bernard asked, directing it towards me. I saw Scott try to but in and answer for us, but before he could, I spoke out.

"My name's m/n, and this is Charlie.....where did he go??" I said, looking around me, trying to find him. I looked until I saw him over by what looked like animal stables, petting the reindeer. When I turned back around Bernard was still there, waiting for me.

"Nice to meet you, m/n." He said with a smile, reaching his hand out to shake mine. I took his hand, going it a firm shake.

" You too, Bernard."

He nodded, then turning back to Scott.

"Great, not that we're all introduced, can you please tell me how I can get home?!" I could tell by the tone of his voice that he was getting annoyed and mad. I knew that tone of voice all too well. The feeling of dread started to build up in the back of my throat, as it usually does when he gets like this.

"Like I have told you, the old Santa fell off the roof, you read the card, you put on the suit, so now you are Santa." Bernard said, obviously annoyed at this point. He looked like he's had a really long night. I feel bad for him.

"Hey! Look, it's not my fault that that other guy fell off my roof, it was an accident. And I've got homeowners insurance and a great lawyer, not as good as my ex wife's, but let's not open up that wound." I sighed, remebering the long days in court. I wish those days never happened. But if they didn't, their relationship would've gotten really toxic.

We watched as Bernard turned on his heel, walking the other way. We both followed him.

"Can I get you a drink?" He asked, walking into a hallway lines with these huge ass candy canes. I did the whole look up at the ceiling while walking thing, still in awe at everything.

"Im thirsty and hungry!" Charlie said, announcing his presence.

"Hey bud," I said, ruffling his bowlcut "I guess I could go for something too." I said.

"Hey, where were you?" Scott asked. "I was petting comet." He said, matter of factly.

Scott rolled his eyes.

"Well hiya sport." Bernard said "You must be Charlie."

"Mhm!" Charlie said. He then turned to Scott, " dad! He called me sport, just like you do!"

"Thats great buddy." He responded with zero enthusiasm.

"Hey, you know what, I got something for you " Bernard said, reaching into his satchel he had with a grin. "Hold out your hand, ok?" As Charlie held out his hand, I watched as Bernard pulled out a beautiful snow globe.

"Now be careful, it's old, just like me." I gave his joke a little laugh. Bernard glanced up at me, giving me a sly smile. I like his smile. It was nice.

As Bernard placed the globe In Charlie's hand, Charlie let out a gasp. A smile took over his face.

"Shake it up Charlie."

Charlie did as he said, and we both watched as the fake snow flurried around. And to our amazement, a little model of our house showed up. My eyes widened.

I look up at Bernard, and he was looking at me. I looked back at him, giving him a smile. He returned one, matching my energy.

"Why don't you hold onto that, it might come In handy."

"Thanks!!" Charlie looked like he could just explode from happiness. My respect for Bernard began to grow. He seemed like a really nice guy, and he was cool.

"Hey, Larry!" Bernard shouted to someone behind us, and I turned around to see who it was. "How about you take Charlie to his room!"

"No, no Larry don't do that!" Dad called out to them, but they were already gone.

"M/n, why don't you follow me to your room."

Before I could even nod my head, I felt Scott grab my shoulders and pull me back. "Uh-uh. She's not going anywhere. Not with you." I closed my eyes. I really dont like it when he does stuff like this.

"𝘏𝘦 will be just fine. " Bernard said putting his hand out. I smiled thankfully at him. I felt my heart swell with a feeling I couldn't quite describe. I pulled myself away from Scott's grip, grabbing Bernard's hand.

His hand was big compared to mine. It was rough, but soft. He held my hand with a firm but gentle grasp.

"So you're just going to leave me?" I heard Scott yell behind us.

" Judy 'll come and get you!" Bernard yelled back.

We walked down many halls, each as extravagant as the last. He both walked in silence, until he spoke.

" I'm sorry your dad does that." He spoke softly.

I was confused for a second

"does what?" I asked.

"Calls you the wrong name and pronouns. That's not very nice of him." I took a moment to think about what he said. No one has ever really apologized to me about that. I've always just delt with it myself.

I studered for a second, trying to figure out what to say.

"T-thank you.." I finally spit out.

Once we reached what I assumed to be my room, he let go of my hand, leaving them cold from the sudden lack of warmth. He opened the door, and I just stood there. The room was perfect. Fairy lights danced around the ceiling, a bed tucked into the corner with the most comfortable looking blankets, a fire place roaring.

"Holy shit!" I said, which I have thought all night, but this is the first time I have actually said it.

"Hey, language. We don't want any of the young elves to hear that." He said, not even sounding annoyed or mad about it, just informative.

"My bad, sorry." I said.

I took a step into the room, taking in the smell of fire and wood.

"If you need anything, I'll be down the hall to the left. Good night m/n, sleep well."

"Goodnight Bernard," I said, watching him walk off and close the door.

On the bed, I saw what looked to be flannel pants. I felt them, and they seemed comfortable. I quickly slipped off the pants I was wearing and put them on.

By the time I slipped into the bed, I was already half asleep. Tonight had been long, even if it was all a dream. As I fell asleep, the smell of peppermint and cinnamon lingered in my nose. It was a pleasant smell.

A/n : I didnt feel like writing the entire scene so I just kinda did this.

[nahimjustfeelingit-writes]

Hey girl!

Any advice for future homeowners?

Hey!!!

Sure thing: make sure you check the roof, the HVAC unit, and the kitchen appliances. Make sure you get an inspection and do not wave it because me and my fiancé did that and we’ve had a few things we had to do (new roof, new HVAC, soon a new oven, a possible leakage issue from a crack outside on the wall, old ass windows replaced) check it all! Make sure you’re aware of any damages, I would suggest you get a home where the kitchen and bathrooms are in great condition as well. You also want to be careful with floors too especially if it’s an older home.

Get the best realtor! Don’t settle for a “family member” or “family friend” because that’s not always the smart thing to do especially if it’s a “side hustle.” No, get a realtor that does it full time lol. Our realtor was a cousin of mine and she did it on the side and hadn’t done it in a while!

Save save save! Save your money! Don’t go into buying a home and not have a fund to fall back on for anything dealing with your home because seriously it Will benefit you! Home owning is an unexpected process. If buying a townhome, make sure you know everything about the HOA. Check out the areas you’re interested in (schools, is it a convenient commute to and from work, etc)

Have a list of people (plumber, electrician, handy man, etc) and there are apps or sites you can go on to find great local people. Also, never settle on your first option with anything. That goes for a home, if you’re shopping around for a new roofing company or HVAC company or even someone to do your floors. Everyone’s pricing is different and you don’t want to be screwed over because they will try to!

READ CONTRACTS!

Read it all! From whatever you have to sign when putting in an offer on a home, down to making a purchase for something to fix in your home. My fiancé made the mistake of signing a contract from Ashley Furniture for our sectional in our basement without reading it and the movers put a hole in our wall trying to get it down the steps and because he didn’t read it, they weren’t held accountable. I had to pay damn near $400 for the patch up and they didn’t even sand it down or paint over it! My fiancé ended up doing that.

Learn how to fix things in your home and also put stuff together. My fiancé has become very handy and he’s fixed a few things and mounted things on the wall and he plans to do more. Anything to help save more money. Make sure you also have an up to date alarm system as well!

There are a lot more things like a really good lender and a sellers disclosure (which I briefly talked about above)

Overall, please do your research and also it’s good to ask for advice from people in your life that own homes, but go with what your gut tells you. This is a huge purchase so you don’t want to regret anything because you can’t afford your mortgage and keeping up with your home. Me and my fiancé went into this confused and my fiancé did a lot of research and there were things we regret and wish we’d known. That’s why it’s always good to have a professional, full time realtor and you want them to be a hard ass because this is HUGE.

I hope I gave you some good advice lol my fiancé was the main person in this whole thing and I’ve watched and learned. Just please gain as much knowledge as you can in this and I hope you have some luck! When we were shopping it was a sellers market and they were listing homes At RIDICULOUS prices, more than what the homes are actually worth! And don’t get discouraged if you’re offer wasn’t accepted. This takes time and trust it will pay off ❤️

[zjofierose]

gather round, children, and let auntie zjo tell you a story about how to get shit fixed in a relative hurry when you need a hand.

on new year’s morning, about 9 am, mr. zjo and i hear a sudden series of strange and loud thumps that sounded like a bunch of boxes falling on our porch. “the fuck,” we said, and went out to investigate. turns out the gutter on one side of our house had gotten too full of water and assorted debris, had detached from the side of the house, and was now hanging, half still attached, half drooping down into the bushes, and banging against the side of the house in the wind.

“well, shit,” was the general consensus. it’s 9 am on a sunday which is also a holiday, so like, fuckin’ no one was open. also, we were expecting a Real Big Storm in the coming days, so this needed dealt with asap.

so, off to google and yelp it was. we live in a bit of a service desert - professional handy-types like to service north of us (rich people), south of us (also rich people), and the city (rich people, and also high density for a small service area), but they doooon’t super love serving our city, so it’s always a bit of a challenge running down someone who will drive out. but- i called probably 10 likely suspects. of those 10, 5 had working voicemails, so i left messages.

tip 1: always leave a message - even if they don’t call you back, when you follow up, they will already have you in their brain as Someone Who Needs Us. make sure to be very friendly, very polite, and leave as much info as you can. to wit, “hi, my name is ___, it’s 9 am on new year’s day, and i’m looking for someone to fix a gutter which has just fallen off my house! *laughter* i’m sure you all are closed today, since it’s a holiday, and i hope you’re enjoying it! but- if you could give me a call as soon as you get this at (number), i would REALLY appreciate it, thanks so much!”

miracle of miracles, the next morning, jeff at General Services called me. “hey,” he said, “i got your message about a gutter that fell off? have you gotten that fixed yet?” no, jeff, i very much have not. thank you for calling me back! “oh sure, you know, we’re pretty backed up, but you sounded a little urgent.” yes, yes i did, jeff. “but the thing is, we don’t do much other than clean gutters. we don’t have a gutter making machine, so, um, did you need your gutters cleaned?”

tip 2: don’t give up! at this point i could have just said, oh, that sucks, guess you can’t fix my thing, bye. but - people know people, and they usually want to help, you just have to show that you’re invested in getting whatever help you can get, and coach them into telling you how you can get that.

so: oh, jeff, i DO need my gutters cleaned! (i do, definitely, this was not a ploy, lol). that would be amazing, i’d love to get on your schedule for that. (jeff adds me to his schedule for gutter cleaning.) buuuut see the problem right now is that i still have half a gutter hanging from my house, and we’re having a big windstorm. it is, genuinely a hazard. there’s a big piece i’m worried is going to blow off and skewer some poor pedestrian, i just want to be a responsible homeowner and get this taken care of, dooooo you know annnnyyyone who miiiight be able to help me in a hurry? i’m reallllyy concerned. at this point i have shown jeff i’m friendly; i’ve shown him i really appreciate him (and i’m willing to book his services, which i do need), and i do really need help - i’m not just wasting his time, or being over-reactive to a minor problem. “ok,” says jeff, “give me your address, and i’ll drive by and take a look, and see if it’s something we can do. really we just clean gutters, though, so no promises.” thank you jeff, you are my hero.

tip 3: persistence.

jeff, bless him, did not drive by. nor did he call me later that day, or the next morning. so, i called him! hey jeff, my bro, my buddy, my best friend. it’s zjo. we talked yesterday? yeah. yeah, my gutter’s still hanging. yeah, it’s still a hazard. i know you’re SO busy, it’s the holidays, it’s just this storm is coming. what if i send you a pic? then you don’t have to drive over. “ok,” says jeff, “send me a pic. here’s my personal number.” aha! we have progressed. i send jeff a pic. “oh,” says jeff, “yeah, you need a whole new gutter. we don’t do that.” cool bro, i completely understand, but - doooooo you know annnnnyyyyonnee who can heeellp meee plz plz plz.

tip 4: there are secret off-the-books networks of people who do things. generally, there are jobs you want an official company with licensing and contracts to do (construction, electrical stuff, etc) and then there are things that you can get done cheaper and faster if you’re willing to be a little more open. but - they need to know you’re chill before they’ll let you in on this.

“well,” says jeff, “i do know this guy, Jose.” there’s a pause. he’s waiting to see if i’m racist. jeff, my man, jose sounds like a wonderful human, i would be delighted for jose to fix my gutter. “ok,” says jeff, “i can send him the picture and your number if you want, but he wouldn’t be able to do it till after 3, when he’s done with his shift at (other local company). but he has his own gutter extruder, and would do it on his own.” another pause - jeff is waiting to see if i care that this is being done off the books. boy oh boy do i not give two shits. jeff, please send Jose the pic of my completely fucked up gutter, i would be thrilled for him to be in touch with me. “ok,” says jeff, “i’ll send it, and then he’ll call you.”

tip 5: be flexible, as much as you can

so i talk to jose. jose will drive by after three and look, and see what he can do. cool. i go out to run some errands. and then at 1:30, jose texts me - he’s off work early, and can drive by now. shit - i am more than a half hour away. well, the damage is all outside, there’s a gate, but it’s unlocked, and i don’t have outdoor pets - there’s no reason i actually need to be there. so i tell him go ahead, i’m not home, but text me or call if he has any questions.

tip 3 redux: persistence (with a side of follow-up)

i do not hear from jose. i finally text him at like 7 pm to be like, hey, bro, did you drive by and get a look at it? “yes”. lol ok well, at least he’s seen it. but by the next morning (now the 4th, my gutter fell on the 1st, and the storm is predicted to hit that evening), i still have no further info. so i text jose again. hey buddy, just wanted to see if you had a time frame for when you might to be able to fix my guttter? “yes,” says jose, “you have an unusual gutter, and i have to get some parts, so not till next friday. also, it will cost $___” well, fuck. ok, but - (if i don’t even question you on the quoted price) can you please come by today and take down the old bit, please please please, i am truly afraid that the dangling piece is going to fall off and cause real damage to someone/something.

…no response. well, at least we do have a date for getting it replaced, i guess. so, i decide we better do the best we can, and do some semi-ill-advised climbing on the damp side of my house to lash the gutter and the hanging bit-of-gutter to the house as best i can, so they are neither banging against my house nor at risk of detaching and impaling a neighbor, and then go back to watching the game. but then, lo, behold - the doorbell rings at 3:30! it’s jose! and his buddy! and they are going to take down my gutter!! jose, you are my favorite person, thank you SO MUCH, please, tell me how to pay you.

and this is the saga of how, literally 15 minutes before it started fucking pouring buckets, i finally got my very broken gutter pulled down from my house, along with an appointment to get a new one added and to get the rest of the existing ones cleaned. also - now i have both jeff and jose in my phone, and you better believe the next time i need a House Thing, i will ask them first whether they want to handle it or know anyone who does. but truly, the moral of the story here is that the keys to any service-needed interaction are patience, persistence, friendliness, and willingness to scratch their proverbial back in order for them to scratch yours. 10/10 would work with jeff and jose again. (also, literally none of the other places ever called me back, so phew)

[gettothestabbing]

I got my air conditioner working again! Finally called an electrician, and the visit was free because apparently the problem was super obvious and easy to fix.

I wasn’t embarrassed about it when the guy was here. But when I had to tell my sister about it, I definitely was. Because I had been trying to fix it on my own, on and off, but I was pretty scared to make a mistake. I was sure I’d fry all my lights or fry myself if I did. And yet I was also reluctant to call a pro because I was dealing with car issues the same week. All I could think was “I’ll kill myself fixing this” and “I’ll never financially recover from calling a pro, I bet all my wiring is whack, and that plus the car is gonna put me in debt and then it’s so over.”

In hindsight, both fears are ridiculous.

I find it interesting that my sister, who is such an anxious person, can clinically observe my own fears and dismiss them from afar. As a result, I feel stupid and unreasonable. But when I’ve tried to help her dismiss her own fears and concerns when they get overblown, she argues for them, and even after the issue is overcome, she can’t admit to having been wrong. 

Maybe it’s just that she can’t admit it to me, but does admit it to herself. It’s hard to tell. I tell her almost everything, because that’s how I process stuff, but especially since she met her husband, she tells me much less. She processes more stuff internally, which is fine, but when you look at our convos, I come off as much more needy and emotional despite being the older sister. I don’t really have many people to talk to, so this is unlikely to change. But it’s embarrassing and annoying anyway. 

As a child, when you become an older sibling, you’re told you will have to help out and be a good example and a leader to the younger child. But when you can’t do that, or when your attempts are rejected by your sibling, it feels like you don’t really have a defined role in the family. My dad, the oldest in his family, has criticized and mocked me for not playing the older sister role better. My sister essentially took that role from me years ago: she’s more confident, social, put-together, pretty, handy, etc. She’s also already a happy wife, mother, and homeowner. (This is someone who said she would take a vow of chastity because there were no men worth her time around.) 

I can’t help but constantly compare us to other sibling-pairs I’ve known, like my dad and uncle or two family friends who are sisters. And when I make those comparisons, I don’t like what they foreshadow for my life at all. I tell myself I’m being dour and superstitious. But the longer I remain the way I am, the more I fear I’ll never be able to change into the person I want to be. Even as I continue to strive towards that ideal, and see small steps of progress, the actual final picture feels unattainable most of the time.

And I’m not like a shut-in or anything, I have achieved plenty which my sister has not. But the things I’ve done aren’t valued in our family the way her accomplishments are. On family phone calls, I’m constantly giving news about her life because I’m the one who stays in touch with people and yet her life is the one they prefer to talk about. My grandparents literally talk shit about my faith and work behind my back (confirmed by multiple third parties). But when they call I get a few polite questions about it, after I get at least half an hour’s worth of questions about my sister and her son. I’m not even that close with them, so it could be worse.

I really want to build my own family, and it just feels like it’s never going to happen, and I’ll only ever be supporting her family and our older relatives while they do the things they want, while I stay poor and increasingly isolated from them due to my work situation.

[goldendaydna]

Lisa headcanons just because

There is very little content of Lisa out there in general which is shame cuz personally I find the character pretty interesting. Note here, these headacanons are my own, you can all think pretty differently about them. I will also make reference to headcanons I have for other characters through these heacanons involving Lisa.

Not many people expect it but Lisa is a pretty handy person and is pretty good when it comes to home repairs and can easily pick up useful stuff from the internet or Youtube videos.

Lisa is non-binary. I just get those vibes, and is ok with all pronouns; while Lisa is fine with people normally using she/her for them they lowkey hope people would use other ones. (Outside of my personal headcanon's though I stick to the canon's she/her for others who don't share the same one) Lisa: Hey Robbie how do I look with he/him pronouns in my bio? *Makes a peace sign and grins while he shows him their profile on his phone screen* A confused Robbie not understanding what Lisa's getting at: You still look like you, Lisa?..... Wait why are you crying? Lisa finding his confusion cute as shit cuz he knows Robbie is perfectly fine with how they identify and just lives under a rock: You're a 10 Robbie 😭 A still confused Robbie: Ok?

They live with their single dad and older sister who are pretty supportive but work many hours, leaving Lisa to take care of the home and to her own devices, hence the homeowner knowledge and unnatural curiosity.

Lisa makes an effort to try and learn Spanish, a big part of it is due to Robbie and Gabe which is a valid reason tbh and both the brothers find that to be really sweet.

Gabe is very good at video games while Lisa and Robbie aren't that good but that's ok, they can be mid at video games together.

Lisa at some point figures out Robbie's a Ghost Rider and about Eli. They take it as best as they can and while it is a little weird to adjust to, they stick around and it leads to experimentation about Robbie's abilities as well as some accommodations like. Robbie: *Feeling sick due to his powers* Lisa: Oh wow Robbie you don't look so good. Want me to get your special barf bucket? [It's just a bucket that can withstand high temperatures] Robbie: Why do we have to call it that? Lisa who finds it funny: I'm getting your special barf bucket.

Because Lisa's been on the internet and is pretty openminded. He's the one to talk to Robbie about asexuality and that how he could possibly fit under that umbrella. Robbie learned a lot of things about himself and the world that day.

Lisa doesn't like or trust Eli at all.

Lisa is better at baking than cooking while Robbie is the reverse. Due to this she has brought home food Robbie's made on more than one occasion; her father and sister like to tease her and ask when they're finally going to meet Robbie and Gabe and when they do, want thank Robbie for saving their stomachs.

Even though Lisa and Robbie share mutual feelings for each other. After that whole thing with Eli and Gabe they decide to stay "friends" at least for the time being. That's all I can remember for now.

[mellow-hole]

highkey wish i was in a position to be a homeowner bc i love to experiment and be handy

[kringletheelf04]

I’m Santa?!

(Chapter two of Wrapped in love!)

After landing I look around.

"Does this look like home to you?!" Dad asks furiously.

"This is their home dad!" Charlie says, looking around in awe.

A kid with pointed ears walks out from the woods. He opens up the side of a pole and inputs a number. The ground begins to shake as we descend into the ground.

"What the fu—dge" I stop myself.

We fully descend into what looks like a toy factory. Kids with pointed ears stop what they are doing and stare at us. Some point and some gasp.

"Where are all the grown ups?" Dad asks to no one.

"This is so cool!" Charlie says, his eyes gleaming.

"You two stay here! I'll figure out where we are and what's going on." I say climbing out of the sleigh.

I spot the closest kid and call out to them.

"Hey! Who's in charge here?" I ask walking up to them.

"You are." The girl answers.

"No, who gives the orders? Who's your boss?" I clarify.

"You are." She glares.

"Who's the head elf, then?" I ask, hands on my hips.

"I told you! You are!" She glares daggers at me.

A boy around my age comes up and crosses his arms.

"Hey! Who's causin' all the trouble around here?" He directs to the girl.

"They are." She points at me.

"I was just asking—" I start until the boy cuts me off.

"Are we on a coffee break?"

"We don't drink coffee." The girl answers.

"Well then I guess the break is over! Back to work! Thanks!" He says, hands on his hips.

"Hey take it easy on her, will you?" I huff.

"I'm Bernard. Nice to meet you San- you're not Santa." He stops, looking me over once, confused.

"Of course I'm not, Santa's not real so I couldn't be him." I raise a brow at him.

"The guy with you must be the new Santa then." Bernard crosses his arms.

"I'm not santa either!" I hear dad argue.

"I thought I told you to stay with Charlie. I have this under control." I say with an even temper.

"Whoever put on the suit first is santa, that must be you." Bernard points to dad.

"I didn't touch that suit!" Dad defends.

"So you are Santa?" Bernard questions me.

"No!" I sputter.

"The other Santa disappeared, right?" He starts walking away.

" Wait a minute. Hey, I know where this is goin'. It wasn't my fault. The other guy fell. It was an accident. I've got homeowner's insurance and a good attorney. Not as good as my wife's, but let's not open up that wound. Hold it a minute. Wh-Whoa, whoa, whoa. How did you know the other guy was gone?" Dad follows after him.

I follow after him.

"Can I get you a drink?" Bernard asks.

"I'm hungry and thirsty too!" I feel a tug on my coat sleeve and hear my brothers voice.

"Charlie, I thought I told you to stay in the sleigh." Dad tells him.

"Like you're one to talk." I cross my arms.

"Who's this?" Bernard asks.

"This is my brother, Charlie." I say, side hugging him.

"Hiya sport!" Bernard smiles at him.

"Hey, Dad, he called me 'sport' just like you two!" Charlie beams.

"Hey, you know what. I got somethin' for you." Bernard says pulling a snow globe from his bag.

"Okay, now hold out your hand, all right? Now, be very careful. This is very old, just like me." He carefully hand's Charlie the globe.

"Shake it up Charlie." I urge.

Charlie shakes it gently and Charlie's eyes go wide as the globe changes.

"Why don't you, uh, hold onto it for me for a while. It might come in handy." He smirks.

"Thanks. Thanks a lot. I promise I'll take real good care of it." Charlie nods.

"Make sure you do!" Bernard affirms.

Charlie wanders off to show dad the snow globe.

"Larry, take Charlie and the dad here and get them some chow." Bernard calls out to another kid.

They get escorted to somewhere and I'm left standing alone with Bernard. He gives me a once over and huffs.

"I guess you are Santa." He says.

"Look, I am not Santa!" I rebuttal.

"Did you or did you not read the card?" Bernard asks, annoyed.

"Yeah I read the card." I confirm.

"Then you're the new Santa. In putting on the hat and jacket you accepted the contract." He reiterates.

"The card in the Santa suit. You said you read it, right? So when you put on the suit, you fell subject to the Santa Clause. 'ln putting on this suit and entering the sleigh the wearer waives any and all rights to any previous identity, real or implied, and fully accepts the duties and responsibilities of Santa Claus. in perpetuity until such time that wearer becomes unable to do so by either accident or design.'" He reads off the card.

"That's ridiculous. I put on the suit because I was cold!" I try to explain.

"Try to understand this!" Bernard snaps.

All the kids around us stop and ooh at us.

"Let me explain something to you, okay? Toys have to be delivered. I'm not gonna do it. It's not my job. I'm just an elf. It's Santa's job, but Santa fell off a roof, your roof. You read the card, you put on the suit. That clearly falls under the Santa Clause." Bernard says, annoyed.

"So I'm Santa now?" I question.

"Yes." He breathes.

"But, Santa's supposed to be a guy. And I am not." I try to reason.

Charlie runs towards me with open arms, dad following behind.

"You have got to see this (y/n)!" Charlie gasps.

"You leave tomorrow morning. You have eleven months to get your affairs in order, and you're due back here Thanksgiving." Bernard says demandingly.

"They're not comin' back here on Thanksgiving!" Dad interjects.

"I'll ship the list to your house." Bernard tells me.

"The list?" I question.

"Come on, now. The list." Bernard gestures.

"He's makin a list," he starts.

"Checking it twice!" Charlie chimes in.

"Gonna find out who's naughty and nice!" The rest of the elves chime in.

Bernard's hands cover his face in embarrassment.

"Look, you put a "P" next to the kids who are nice and a "C" next to the naughty ones." He pulls his hands away.

"'P' and 'c'?" I raise my eyebrows.

""P" for present, "C" for coal, right, Bernard?" Charlie asks.

"Right. Now we got to get you out of those clothes. You all look soaked. Judy? Take dad to his room and then take Charlie to his please?" He asks an elf with a pointed hat.

"What do I do?" I ask.

"I'll bring you to your room. We have lots to discuss."

[musicinsurancecompany]

Be Financially-Safe During Unforeseen Events with Music Dealer Insurance

What is the first thing that comes to your mind when you hear people saying - individuals who possess musical equipment should buy a suitable insurance plan? Probably, you think about professional musicians. Right? However, there is more under that tag. Yes. Read on!

People with musical instruments can be anyone - a music teacher, someone taking music classes, a paid performing artist, a musical instrument appraiser or repairer, and even a musical equipment dealer.

Most importantly, they should all take care of their musical paraphernalia and buy a dedicated insurance plan to ensure maximum protection. This blog will take you through the basics of Music Dealer Insurance and why music store owners should prioritize it.

Some simple yet tricky questions to answer!

Are you an owner of a music dealership with various kinds of musical instruments on display and otherwise? Does your collection range from beginners to high-end heritage musical gear? Do you have your music instrument shop in the basement of your home? Do you think your home insurance plan is enough to cover your store?

If your answer is YES to the above questions, brace yourself to answer some more:

Situation I: What if your client suffers injury inside your shop after a guitar falls over them? What if they file a lawsuit against you asking for compensation? Will your home insurance policy come in handy? Will it protect you against such third-party liabilities?

Situation II: What if a fire breaks in your shop or someone intentionally torches it? Will your home insurance plan offer complete compensation and pay off the entire value of your possessions?

Situation III: What if the new consignment of musical instruments you just received turns out to be damaged? Will it come under your homeowner's insurance plan?

Situation IV: What if your musical instrument shop suffers a catastrophe damaging much of the equipment? Do you think your home or renter insurance plan compensates?

Always remember! No matter what and how much money you may have invested in buying a home insurance plan, it is least likely to cover the above scenarios. However, with a comprehensive Music Dealer Insurance plan in place, you can rest assured. It will extend protection against all such situations.

What other scenarios will your music dealer insurance policy cover you against?

Here is a list of some more situations an all-encompassing musical instrument insurance policy will cover:

• If unscrupulous people vandalize or loot your shop, a dedicated insurance plan will compensate you for the same.

• If you somehow get implicated in a third-party liability case involving your musical instruments or shop, your home insurance policy will not compensate you for the loss. Right from paying off the client to expensive lawsuits, you will have to bear it on your own. A gentle reminder - legal expenses can burn holes in your pocket. However, if you purchase an independent insurance policy for dealers, you and your finances are in safe hands.

• If a consignment gets damaged or lost during transportation, your renter's or home insurance will not come to your rescue. However, a standalone plan made for music dealers will save your day.

• Unlike a dedicated insurance product of musical instrument dealers, your home insurance plan is least likely to compensate for accidental damages.

• One of the best things about specialized insurance plans is - it offers worldwide coverage. So, no matter where you go, insurance protection will follow you above and beyond.

With the assurance of all-risk coverage and ultimate peace of mind, don’t you think buying a dealer-specific insurance plan is worth it? Although it won’t be able to predict or prevent an unforeseen event, it will definitely come to your rescue and guard you against massive financial loss. So, find a reliable insurance service provider that works with musical instruments and dealers and turn the peace mode on.

[underwatersolenoid]

Most men are not aware of what and how a Temperature pressure relief valve is or does

The water heater, a home inspection life safety issueHome inspection in Gravenhurst, Bracebridge and Orillia can be very interesting due to the wide variety of structures and home styles. I inspect Log homes to ultra modern concrete and glass homes and everything in between.

When it comes to inspecting cottages throughout Muskoka they run the gamut  from 200 sq ft thrown up basic shelters to very large multi structure estate homes.  While the basic premise behind home inspections is providing the client with peace of mind in the decision making process with information on any material defects in the home there are safety issues that come up as well. Most safety issues , like the rest of the report are confidential to the client. It is the client’s home inspection, they pay for the report and only they have the right to its contents. On occasion a life safety issue emerges during the inspection and that type of issue I inform my clients I would report to the sellers Real Estate agent or have the clients agent report it to them.

One such safety issue I come across all too often in my home and cottage inspections is the incorrect installation of the hot water heater.Most homeowners and handy men are not aware of what and how a Temperature pressure relief valve is or does. I must confess that despite having installed many electric hot water heaters myself according to manufactures directions ( yep I am apparently one of the few guys who reads them all. ) I too was unaware of the deadly potential these items have in the home. Until I undertook my home inspection training through Carson Dunlop Engineering  Home Inspection Program I viewed hot water heaters as a simple device pretty much anyone could install safely.  That viewpoint changed as I came to understand the relationship between the sudden release of steam energy, and the role the Temperature Pressure Release Valve on the hot water heater plays in preventing the buildup of steam energy in the first place.   Wholesale Solenoid Valve Here I am going to do something unusual for a blog articleThis is a site I would like you to visit before going on,  it is a video from the television series Mythbusters and it illustrates the explosive power of the hot water tank.

In the video they have removed the safety mechanisms to force the result for the show but failure of the secondary safety or a lack of it could and has produced the same result in homes. After you visit and view the video come back and I will tell you about the safety mechanisms and what I find that is a life safety issue when inspecting homes and cottages.

[maiselee]

Different Types of Handyman Services You Need to Know

Handymen can do so many different things, and they specialize in other areas as well.

A handyman's name comes from their ability to do many things, so they're very "handy" to have around. Some handymen specialize in or come from a specific field, but most do a bit of everything.

Despite this, not everyone is aware of the different types of handyman services available. Today, we'll look at the handyman services you need to know.

Small Appliance Repair

Every household needs small appliances such as microwaves, toasters, and coffee makers. It is, however, not always easy to fix them when they are damaged. 

Rather than throwing out your small appliance or replacing it, you can hire a handyman to fix it.

Drywall Installation

Handymen can install drywall when remodeling a home or repairing water damage.

Generally, handyman services measure, cut, and install drywall boards in homes with precision and skill.  

Fixture Replacement

Over time, fixtures in a home can break or wear out, such as kitchen faucets, cabinets, and lighting. A do-it-yourself (DIY) enthusiast can easily replace several fixtures in a home. However, some homeowners prefer to hire a professional as they may be too busy.

Window Repair

Glass windows are made of glass, which can break when damaged or exposed to sunlight. As a result, the windows will no longer be functional. Additionally, unrepaired windows may also allow cold air into a home or heat to escape.

Tile Installation

Installing tiles in a room adds a decorative touch. Unfortunately, moisture or improper installation can damage these beautiful tiles. Therefore, hiring professional handyman services for this kind of installation is essential.

Smart Home Upgrade Installation

A handyman can install thermostats, doorbells, and sensors in the home. It is essential to check with the handyman to find out if they're certified to install your particular brand and type of product. Some may require specialized knowledge of home electrical systems.

Power Washing

A handyman can also provide power washing services. The power washing process involves using a high-pressure hose to remove dirt, grime, and mold from exterior walls. Frequently, mold and mildew grow inside homes because of damp conditions.

Today, there are many handyman services available. Specific tasks require specialized knowledge, without which you may end up causing further damage or injuring yourself. Don't hesitate to contact handyman services the next time you encounter any of the above situations.

Source: Different Types of Handyman Services

[wannabeastarshipranger]

Due to suffering all week with these issues, I have been mulling around with this idea while suffering. Apparently I have done this before as I found another draft of a post like this written before by me.

This post is for anyone born without a uterus and thinks you know how those that have them work, but very clearly don’t. Hopefully you’ll read this and realize why you need to shut up.

For this metaphor, everyone is given a home that is unique minus one thing: the bathroom has specific sink requirements that fall under two styles.

The first option comes with two sinks. The first sink has a balloon looking object on it connected to the faucet and two temperatures. The second sink has a long tube with a stopper on it connected to the faucet and no temperature control. Both seem to run constantly and appear to have means of releasing the water when the balloon or tube get full.

The second option comes with three sinks. The first two appear identical to option one minus the first sink having no temperature control. The third sink however has nothing on it besides the faucet. No drain, no temperature control, or anything. There is a note that says this sink is controlled by maintenance and to prepare for flooding which is odd as it is currently not on.

Owners of option two find that maintenance will randomly turn on the third sink and the water pressure is crazy. It usually starts kinda slow, but slow is relative term when there is no drain for the water to go down. It’ll flood the bathroom but usually be contained to there. The owners are told that the best way to deal with the flooding is buckets and/or sponges. So they get them despite the excessive prices for them because flooding the house is not an option. Over a week the pressure will increase until about midway before going back down and then stopping, but the length of time can vary. Sometimes the flood can effect the other sinks, which is annoying on top of trying to prevent water damage, but is normal. Usually the flood causes a lot of pain emotionally and physically because of all the work required to try and keep the water contained. The homeowners are great full when it finally stops and they get to cleaning up the bathroom and getting it back to normal order. Then usually about a month later, the flooding returns.

These homeowners get frustrated with this and try to find ways to get maintenance to stop the flooding. Some talk to handy men about temporarily cutting off that waterline, or maybe even permanently, but they usually aren’t fans of the second one because you might give your house key to someone and they may want that waterline working. Other homeowners try to at least keep track of how and when maintenance floods to at least plan around it. The most important thing is most just deal with the flooding.

Occasionally, someone from the first option houses will get either invited in or break into these bathrooms and dump hot water into the third sink. This can cause maintenance to need to move into the bathroom for months on end trying to work on the third sink in person. Some homeowners want this. Others do not. The latter will go to handy men and ask that they fix the sink to get maintenance out or if the find out soon enough, get it fixed before maintenance shows up. Some even check in the morning and clean up the water and treat the sink with special cleaner that can prevent the problem.

The odd thing is that a lot of people who don’t live in the house have strong opinions about whether or not people can get their own handy men or cleaner treatment if hot water has been used on that sink. They say that homeowners just have to accept maintenance coming in, stealing food, possibly messing up other things in the house, and do their job. They claim the builders wanted this to happen or why would that sink work that way. Others think the homeowner has every right to do whatever they want and are under no requirement to let maintenance move in. Some say they don’t have to let maintenance in, but only if the bathroom was broken into or something like that.

Another thing that people have opinions on is the sponges and buckets. Some think homeowners are creeps for mentioning them. Others think that there is some sort of pleasure derived by using them. The weirdest ones are those who own option two homes and agree with this. Most of the option two homeowners just say that their bathrooms are flooding, they have no control over it, and think it’s dumb to pay so much to stop the flooding as much as they can.

The last thing I would like to leave you with is this. Next time you find out someone’s house is on their monthly flood, be kind to them. Don’t comment on their attitude. Don’t claim that their pain from the flooding isn’t as bad as hurting your hand touching the hot water controls, because it really, really isn’t. And if someone calls into work because the flooding is that bad, don’t make fun or judge. Their house is freaking flooding!

I hope this metaphor has helped. I am now going to lie on a heating pad and sleep. This flood has sucked.