Archive for September, 2008

Crawl Space Pests

Tuesday, September 30th, 2008

If you have an untouched crawl space in your home, it could be home to some unwanted guests.  Your crawl space could be hiding insects, nests or rodents.  House mice can cause a number of problems in a home ranging from allergic reactions to mouse urine to the spreading of fleas or ticks and even disease.

To keep mice and other rodents out, The National Pest Management Association recommends that you make sure all holes of larger diameter than a pencil are sealed in your home.  Mice can squeeze through spaces that are as small as a nickel! (more…)

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Dust Mites: How to protect yourself

Tuesday, September 23rd, 2008

Dust mites are tiny insects invisible to the naked eye.  They’re everywhere: mattresses, pillows, carpets, upholstered furniture, bedcovers, clothes, stuffed toys, fabric and fabric-covered items.  They feed on our dead skin cells and can bring on allergies in humans.  So, how can you fight that which you cannot see?

It’s impossible to get rid of all dust mites for good, but the Environmental Protection Agency has a few tips to help you at least have a fighting chance against these microscopic monsters.  (more…)

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The Dangers of Mold

Friday, September 12th, 2008

Mold growing inside a house can have a disastrous impact on the health of everyone living there, as it can produce allergens, irritants and even toxins. The result of mold in the air can range from allergies to infections to toxic reactions. More common reactions include:

  • Watery eyes
  • Runny nose
  • Sneezing
  • Coughing
  • Wheezing
  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Difficulty breathing

    • (more…)

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    Basement Contractors: Hiring Tips and Tricks

    Thursday, September 11th, 2008

    Sometimes making a deal with a basement contractor can feel like making a deal with the devil. Will he hold up his end of the bargain? What kind of horrible consequences await you once you shake his hand? There are a number of tips you can use that will help make your experience with a basement contractor a helpful one rather than a stressful one.

    Ask the Expert columnist Tim Carter suggests that you set up a timely and fair payment plan. Also, get everything in writing and keep records so you can reference it later if you need to. (more…)

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    Posted in basement finishing | 1 Comment »