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Is It Time to Replace Your Rain Gutters?

October 13, 2022 by Paul Schrick (Post Export User)

The gutters on your home serve as the first line of defense against water damage. They perform a critical function by redirecting rain and snow away from your house and foundation. Gutter systems are designed to protect your house, foundation, roof, and siding, as well as your basement and landscaping.

A properly functioning gutter diverts water away from the home, ensuring it does not seep into your house through cracks in the foundation. But, as with most things, even the best rain gutter system won't last forever. If you notice water pooling in the gutters or dripping from your roof's edge, it may be time to replace your old gutter system with a new one (though it may also just mean you need to clean out the gutters). Let's look at some signs that your rain gutters need to be replaced.

Your Rain Gutters Are Rusty

Rust is one of the first signs that your rain gutters need an upgrade. Keep an eye out for rusty areas, and perform a thorough visual inspection at least once per year for signs of rust. Why is rust a problem? It creates areas of weakness that can lead to leaks. If you see more than surface rust, it's time to replace your gutters.

Also, look for signs of corrosion. With heavy rains, corroded or rusty areas become prone to leaks and can collapse under pressure from the weight of water during the storm. Being weaker, corroded metal may also break when human hands touch it, making it unsafe for anyone who works on roofs.

You Have Leaks

One sign that your rain gutters are performing poorly is rainwater pooling at the bottom of your home or around the foundation. Another sign of poorly functioning rain gutters is water stains on your ceiling or walls. You might notice spots on your ceiling or walls from inside your home. Another sign is staining on the inside portion of the gutter or the wall behind it. This means that water is not draining properly down the side of your house.

Leaks and clogs can cause serious issues. If there is a clog in the gutter, water can back up and cause problems with the foundation or exterior paint job. If you have cleaned out the gutters recently, and they clog again in a relatively short time, this can be a sign that your gutters are not doing their job and need to be replaced. Excessive leaking can also lead to mold growth inside your home's walls and on your house's exterior. Mold is not only unsightly, it is also a health issue. A professional contractor can help solve this problem by repairing or replacing damaged gutters as needed.

You Have Leaves in Your Gutter System

It's not uncommon for leaves and other debris to make their way into your gutter system, but don't let them stay there. Leaf and debris build up, obstruct water drainage, and cause damage, including foundation cracks if you ignore it. Inspect your system regularly and remove build-up before it creates more costly problems.

Your Rain Gutters Are More Than 20 Years Old

If your gutters are more than 20 years old, there's a good chance they are coming apart at the seams. Rain gutters have a finite life span. While some signs of rust or corrosion could show after only 10 years, rain gutters can last 15 or 20 years before you need to replace them. But don't count on your rain gutters to perform well after that. Faulty construction, poor installation, or external damage from storms can further shorten their lifespan.

Hire a Professional for the Job

Are you convinced you need to replace your rain gutters? If you're not comfortable or familiar with installing a new rain gutter, hire a professional to do it for you. You can save money by doing it yourself, but it's time-consuming, messy, and risky. Also, a professional can tell you whether you need to replace the whole system or just a portion of your rain gutters. If your gutters are fairly new, you may only need to repair one or two areas. Repairing is easier and less costly than replacing the whole system.

The Bottom Line

Gutters are one of the most neglected parts of a home, but they play a critical role in protecting the exterior of your home. You'll need to remove your old gutters before installing the new one, and that's a hassle if you've never done it before. Keep an eye on them, though. Don't let leaves or debris block them or let rust go undetected.

Home Buying Tips for Teachers

September 6, 2022 by Paul Schrick (Post Export User)

Teachers looking to purchase their first home often find themselves wondering where to turn first. There are numerous federal, state, and locally-based programs designed to make the process of putting together a down payment and getting approved for a home easier for teachers. Check out these resources and tips for consideration before you start the home buying process.

Down Payment Assistance and Other Financial Programs

Good Neighbors Next Door¹ - The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers this program to help make the home buying process easier for pre-kindergarten through 12th-grade teachers. Homes listed by HUD can be snatched up for a 50% discount provided teachers are willing to commit to living on the property for at least 36 months.

Teacher Next Door² - Also offered by HUD, this program helps pair educators with federal, state, and local loan programs. Teachers can receive up to $6,000 in assistance depending on the area and cost of living. Some even qualify for up to $10,681 in additional down payment assistance. There are no upfront, broker, or application fees, and teachers can take advantage of other perks like a free appraisal and home buyer representation.

Landed Down Payment Support³ - While not a government-funded effort, Landed is a company that seeks to help teachers and other educational staff purchase homes in expensive cities - think Los Angeles, Denver, or San Francisco. The company will provide half of the down payment, provided they're willing to share 25% of their investment when it comes time to sell.

Local Programs - Teachers always have the option to leverage more localized programs, too. Many states offer home loan programs designed for teachers who aren't available on the federal level. Teachers in California, for example, can qualify for the Extra Credit Teacher Home Purchase Program. This program offers teachers deferred junior loans up to $15,000 depending on the location of the home.

Three Practical Home Buying Tips for Teachers

Commute time - Buying a home near the school where you work can save you considerable time, money, and instances of migraines. Long commutes are tough, but long commutes after eight hours of dealing with a classroom full of children are their own special brand of fun. You're the glue that holds students' academic efforts together, and you deserve to be able to get home easily after a long day at work.

Social considerations - While living near school is great, you'll need to take your comfort level running into students and parents while you're out and about into account. If you're a little more socially awkward than you'd like your kiddos at school to believe, it might be best to leave a little buffer room between you and wherever a majority of your students live.

Consider Relocation - Anyone who teaches knows that certain states stand out when it comes to job prospects. Some are known to treat teachers like royalty, others are known to treat them like peasants, and most fall somewhere in between. If you're stuck in an area that's less-than-favorable, don't be afraid to consider packing up and starting someplace new.

This also opens up a variety of housing options that you wouldn't have had otherwise. You can look at the home of your dreams half a country away and take comfort in the fact that you know you'll be moving someplace where your time at work is better-valued. That's a win/win by all accounts.

At the end of the day, your career as a teacher can have a huge impact on your home-buying experience. Job opportunities within the industry are constantly changing and may send you looking for a home far from where you're living now. Unique opportunities for monetary assistance also position you better than most, to take risks and aim to purchase the home of your dreams. If you utilize your resources correctly, you might find that your career actually makes purchasing a home easier than it might be otherwise.

References

1 hud.gov/program_offices/housing/sfh/reo/goodn/gnndabot
2 teachernextdoor.us/Home
3 landed.com/

How to Inspect the Plumbing in a New Home Before You Buy

August 12, 2022 by Paul Schrick (Post Export User)

Plumbing issues that are overlooked can be costly in the long run. When considering your next home purchase, here is a list of things to check to ensure that your potential new home has an effective plumbing system before you close the deal.

Inspect water heater - Water heaters usually last about 10 years. Check the age of the heater, and if it's around 10 years old or older, request to have it replaced. Ensure the heater is big enough to suit your family's needs. Otherwise, you will find yourself running out of hot water frequently. Depending on how hard the water is at the house, mineral deposits can cause corrosion and build up in the bottom of the tank. This leaves less space for water to enter and will affect how much water gets heated for use.

Inspect toilets for possible leaks - Inspecting all toilets in the home can tell you a lot about the condition of the plumbing system. Flush each toilet and make sure they fill back up again. Check around the base of each toilet, and if the floor moves or feels spongy, this may indicate a leak that is going into the sub-floor that may one day cause damage.

Check water supply valve - The water supply valve is in a different location in each home. Locating it during your home inspection would be beneficial in case you ever have a water leak and need to shut off all water immediately. To determine if the valve is in good working order, turn it off and then check all taps in the home. If water still pours from the taps even when the valve is shut, attempt to locate a secondary water supply valve. If none is found, request an additional inspection to determine if the valve is faulty.

Determine the type of sewage system - If the home is in an urban area, chances are sewage will drain to a municipal sewage system. If it is in a rural area, sewage likely will drain to an on-site septic tank. In this case, determine the location of the tank and size, which should be available from the current owner. Ask the owner when the tank was last pumped and request that it be pumped before the closing date. If the tank uses an aerator, check that it is in good working order. At the house inspection, look for seeping around the general area of the septic tank, and be aware of any odors. These are signs of problems with the septic system which will cost you thousands of dollars to repair.

Check for leaking pipes - Some people may think that an occasional leaking pipe is minor, but consistent leaking over a long period of time can lead to structural damage, including leaks through the floor down to lower level rooms. Check underneath all kitchen and bathroom sinks for leaking pipes. Ensure any pipes that are leaking get repaired immediately. While insurance companies cover damages caused by flooding and burst pipes, slow leaks such as ones from leaking pipes generally are not covered.

Check water temperature and pressure - Turn on the showers in the house and make sure the water gets hot and the pressure is at an acceptable level. If the water does not get hot, there may be an issue with the water heater that you need to address. If the water pressure is weak, this may point to a mineral build-up around the showerhead or problems with the water pipes drawing water into the home such as inadequate size or a clog preventing water from getting through.

The plumbing in a house can create many issues that are costly and inconvenient, from leaks to water shortages. Following these tips will ensure that the plumbing system in the home you are considering will meet your needs for years to come.

Factors To Consider Before Installing An Inground Pool

July 12, 2022 by Paul Schrick (Post Export User)

If you want to enjoy some healthy exercise, beat the heat, or keep the kids entertained, adding an in-ground pool to your home might be a great option. Pools are popular upgrades for many homeowners, and it is easy to understand their appeal. When you have a pool at your home, you can host pool parties, swim whenever you like, and give up your expensive membership at the local swim club. But before you tear up the back yard and start pouring the concrete, you need to do some careful thinking. Pool ownership is a big decision with a lot of factors to consider long-term. Here are some key things to think about before adding an inground pool to your home.

Insurance Can Be Expensive: Swimming pools may be fun, but they can also be dangerous. Drowning is always a possibility wherever water is present, and pool owners need to take special precautions to keep their family members and neighborhood children safe.

Even if you follow all the local rules and regulations, fence your pool, and stay vigilant, your homeowner's insurance policy will likely incur additional fees. Make sure you get a quote from your insurance company before installing your inground pool so there are no surprises later.

Routine Maintenance Adds Additional Expense: It is easy to dream of swimming in crystal clear waters, but that sparkling water comes at a cost. Keeping an inground pool ready for swimming is not cheap, and many new pool owners are unprepared for the expense.

From the cost of the chemicals and routine water testing to the cost of replacing torn liners and covers, pool ownership can put a serious dent in your wallet. Before you start digging, you need to be aware of and prepared for these high maintenance costs.

A Pool Could Decrease the Value of Your Home: Many people think that adding an inground pool will make their home more valuable, but the opposite could be true. In many parts of the country, having an inground pool actually decreases the value of the property, and that is definitely something to think about.

If you think you might sell your house down the line, it is important to do your homework before adding an inground pool. Talk to local real estate agents, research recent home sales, and try to get a feel for the impact a pool has on local property values. If homes with pools are routinely selling for higher prices, you may be able to justify the cost. If property values are decreased by that water-filled hole in the ground, you might want to hang onto your swim club membership a little longer.

It can be tempting to upgrade your home with an inground pool, especially if you love to swim, but make sure you educate yourself before taking the plunge. Pool ownership can be a costly endeavor, and the more you know, the easier it will be to make a wise decision.

Considerations for a “Retirement-Ready” Home

June 10, 2022 by Paul Schrick (Post Export User)

According to the Census Bureau, there are about 52 million people who are 65 or older, and this number is only expected to grow. We are fortunate to live in an era of medical and technological improvements, which have helped us to live longer! While some senior citizens will inevitably transition into some form of assisted-living situation, many will opt to "age in place" in their own homes as long as possible. Instead of researching nursing homes, they will seek out homes that offer them the ability to stay independent. What are some of the features they should be looking for in order to improve their quality of life and facilitate their goal to remain at home?

Location, location, location: As with any real estate search, location is key. This includes proximity to family members, medical providers, hospitals, and grocery stores. Think about your interests and hobbies as well. For example, if you like to hike or cycle, does the area have a good system of trails and paths? If you don't tolerate cold weather, is the climate mild? Does the area provide venues if you enjoy attending concerts, shows, and sporting events? Will you be fully retired or perhaps seeking part-time or even full-time work? Visualize how you plan to spend time and what activities will improve your quality of life.
Financial considerations: It usually makes sense to move to an area with a lower cost of living and less expensive housing. It pays to take into account other factors too, such as taxes, homeowner association fees, and insurance. Plan ahead! What will your retirement income be? Will you need to supplement it with a job? It pays to consult with a financial or estate planner.
Specific architectural features: Many home builders now incorporate "retirement-ready" features into the construction of new homes. These include wider doorways, one-level living, "paddle" style levers instead of traditional door knobs, handrails and grips in the bathroom, walk-in bathtubs, non slip flooring, hard-wired alarms, security systems, and enclosed garages, just to name a few. If a home health aide or other assistance is needed at some point, does the house have a bedroom and bathroom that could be dedicated to live-in help?
Community amenities: Many neighborhoods have homeowner associations, or HOAs. The fees for these often include the upkeep of lawns and common areas, and they may provide a clubhouse, workout room or gym, swimming pool, and social activities. HOA fees can get expensive, so you need to balance the cost with the benefits you receive.
Opportunities for socialization: Studies of "Blue Zones," geographical areas where people live unusually long and productive lives, tout the importance of social connection and a feeling of usefulness and contribution to the community. It is worthwhile to check out volunteer opportunities and other avenues for making social contacts.

With a plan in mind and a blueprint for the kind of life they intend to lead, senior citizens of today and tomorrow can chart a new course in independent, lifestyle-based living.

Gardening in Small Spaces

May 10, 2022 by Paul Schrick (Post Export User)

Gardening in Small Spaces

The only thing better than summer vegetables is knowing that you've grown them yourself. You don't have to miss out just because you have a small space. There are plenty of plants you can grow on your windowsill or on your patio. If you follow these tips, you'll have enough success to share with friends.

Grow up, not out - Potted plants can take up a lot of space, and that's not ideal when you're working in a small area. Thankfully, clever gardeners around the world have come up with a practical solution - vertical gardening. Utilize the wall rather than the ground space, and you'll double or triple your garden's space.

Choose smaller varieties of plants - You know that corn stalks wouldn't grow in a tiny vase, and you should apply this line of thinking to choosing the varieties of foods that you grow in containers. From peas to peppers and tomatoes to cucumbers, some dwarf and bush varieties were created especially to grow in small spaces.

Think outside of the container - Having a productive patio garden doesn't have to be expensive. With any quick look around your home, you should be able to find a suitable container without spending a penny. Things like old buckets and laundry baskets are perfect for plants such as potatoes and strawberries.

Use the right soil - Since your container plants won't be able to source nutrients from the ground, choosing the right soil is vital to your garden's success. Experts recommend a mix of quality potting soil and peat, but creating your own compost is even more fun.

Too much sun can be detrimental - Even if you are growing sun-loving plants like tomatoes, container plants come with a different set of rules. Because of the reduced surface area, the roots of a container plant can overheat easily. Given that certain containers absorb more heat than others, it's a good idea to make sure your plants are getting just the right amount of light. Too much light can be harmful.

Monitor water levels carefully - Just as easily as your plants can dry out from too much heat, they can also suffer from too much moisture. Overwatering your plants - or planting them in containers with poor drainage - can cause the root system to rot. Keep a careful eye on your plant's specific needs, and make sure they have adequate drainage holes.

Fertilize according to plant needs - As a general rule of thumb, container gardens should be fertilized once every couple of weeks. However, certain plants require more frequent feeding while they are in the fruiting stage. Do a little research about your plants and tailor their fertilization schedule as they need it.

Just because you have a small space doesn't mean that you can't have a decent-sized harvest. With a little thought, a little inventiveness, and a little dedication, you'll be making summer dishes with your own homegrown food.