Gainesville Restoration and Remodeling

Category Home Repairs

Buying a Home
The Ins & Outs of Buying a Home with Significant Damage

The Ins & Outs of Buying a Home with Significant Damage – The opinions expressed by the author in this and all guest blogs are not necessarily those of Gainesville Restoration and Remodeling.

Purchasing a home is a major investment, and finding out that your potential new property has suffered extensive damage can be overwhelming. Whether the cause is a natural disaster, burst pipe, or fire, taking immediate and strategic actions is crucial to safeguard your interests. Making an informed decision about whether to proceed with the purchase will help ensure your investment is sound and secure. Gainesville Restoration & Remodeling shares more:

 

Buying a Home

The Ins & Outs of Buying a Home with Significant Damage

 

Consult a Real Estate Attorney

The first step is to hire a real estate attorney. An experienced attorney can provide legal advice specific to your situation and guide you through the complexities of purchasing a damaged property. They will review the home sale contract, explain your legal rights, and help you understand the implications of the damage. An attorney can also assist in negotiating terms with the seller, ensuring that all agreements are documented and legally binding.

Organize and Digitize Housing Documents

Managing your housing documents efficiently is crucial during this process. Organize all paperwork related to the property (e.g., inspection reports, contractor estimates, correspondence) with the seller. Digitize these documents for easy access and sharing.

PDFs are often preferred over Microsoft files when sharing files with your attorney, agent, or any other party. Numerous online tools allow you to make fast conversions by dragging and dropping them into the tool. Search “PDF convert files” online to see your options and ensure your documents are easily accessible and securely stored.

Review the Home Sale Contract

Carefully reviewing the home sale contract is vital. This document outlines the terms and conditions of the sale and should include clauses related to property damage. Look for any contingencies that allow you to back out of the deal if significant damage is discovered.

Your real estate attorney can help interpret these clauses and advise on any additional provisions that should be included to protect you. If the contract does not adequately address the discovered damage, your attorney can negotiate amendments.

Conduct a Thorough Walkthrough

Before closing, conduct a detailed walkthrough of the property. This inspection is your chance to assess the extent of the damage firsthand. Take notes, photos, and videos of all affected areas. Pay attention to signs of termite infestation, water damage, structural issues, and fire or smoke damage. A thorough walkthrough can provide a clear picture of the repairs needed and their potential cost, informing your decision on purchasing.

Assess Your Options with Your Real Estate Agent

Your real estate agent is a valuable resource in this situation. Contact them immediately to discuss the discovered damage. An experienced agent can offer insights into how similar cases have been handled in the past and what steps you should take next. They can also facilitate communication with the seller and other parties, helping negotiate repairs or adjustments to the sale price. Trust your agent’s expertise to help you navigate this challenging situation.

Hire a Home Inspector and Contractor

Engaging a professional home inspector and contractor is crucial. A home inspector can provide a detailed report on the property’s condition, identifying all areas of concern. A contractor can then assess the cost and feasibility of necessary repairs. Together, these professionals will give you a comprehensive understanding of the damage and what it will take to restore the home. Their reports will be invaluable in negotiations with the seller.

Negotiate Repairs Before the Final Sale

After gathering all necessary information, negotiate with the seller on which repairs are non-negotiable before the sale. Use inspection and contractor reports to support your demands, such as requesting the seller to complete repairs, lower the sale price, or offer other concessions. Your real estate agent and attorney can facilitate these negotiations to protect your interests.

Facing the discovery of significant damage in a home you’re planning to buy can be daunting, but it’s essential to take proactive steps to safeguard your interests. You can make a well-informed decision by seeking legal advice, thoroughly reviewing the contract, and consulting with professionals. With careful planning and expert assistance, you can navigate the challenges and make a sound investment in your future home.

 

The Ins & Outs of Buying a Home with Significant Damage

Make Hurricane Idalia Easier with an Experienced Handyman

Make Home Maintenance Easier with an Experienced Handyman – The opinions expressed by the author in this and all guest blogs are not necessarily those of Gainesville Restoration and Remodeling.

Home Maintenance

Make Home Maintenance Easier with an Experienced Handyman

When something breaks, leaks, or malfunctions in your home, your first instinct may be to fix it yourself. However, let’s face it, not everyone is handy. Plus, some tasks are just too big to handle alone. That’s why you may consider hiring a handyman to do the job for you. Here are some tips from Gainesville Restoration & Remodeling to help you find the perfect one to trust with your home repairs.

Research the Handyman’s Background

Before hiring anybody, it’s vital to know who you are inviting into your home. Research the handyman’s background before you even consider hiring them. Make sure they have a clean record and no criminal history. You may also want to look into their past work history to see if they have experience with your specific repair needs.

Review References

Handymen are usually referred to others by current or previous customers. Ask the handyman for references, and don’t hesitate to reach out to them to get an idea of the quality of work that the handyman provides. You can also check the handyman’s reviews on online platforms to see what others have to say about their work.

Get a Quote in Writing

When you’ve found a handyman that you feel comfortable with, get a written quote. This will protect both you and the handyman from any misunderstandings about the work to be done, the timeframe, and the cost. Verify that the quote includes everything that needs to be done to complete the job, any materials that will be needed, and the timeline.

Avoid the Lowest Bidder

While it may be tempting to go with the lowest bidder on the job, sometimes it can end up costing more in the long run. The lowest bidder may be cutting corners on materials or workmanship, or they may not be fully qualified to do the job. Always choose a handyman based on reputation, experience, and the quality of their work, rather than just the price.

Set and Work on a Schedule

To ensure that the job gets done correctly and in a timely manner, set and work on a schedule with the handyman. This schedule should include the start and end dates of the job, as well as any milestones or deadlines that need to be met. Communication is important throughout the process so that everyone is on the same page regarding the progress and any issues that arise.

Use Online Tools to Manage, Organize and Store Important Documents

There are various online tools available that can aid in managing, organizing, and storing important documents related to repairs. By utilizing these tools, you can keep track of receipts, work orders, and other important paperwork. Not only do these tools offer storage solutions, but they also allow you to easily search and retrieve your documents. In order for you to merge a PDF, you may need to subscribe to a paid plan, but in the long run, it can save you time and effort by eliminating the need for physical file storage.

Review Licenses and Certifications

When selecting a handyman, ensure they have the necessary licenses and certifications to do the job. The handyman should have credentials to perform the job and be licensed and insured to ensure their work is covered by insurance. Handymen need to be licensed by the relevant state or local authorities, and they should also hold a license in any specialty work they may perform, such as electrical or plumbing work.

Inquire About Clean-Up Services

Before approaching the end of the job, ask the handyman about their clean-up responsibilities. You want to avoid being stuck with a bunch of mess that you have to clean up after the handyman leaves. Make sure the handyman takes full responsibility for cleaning up their mess once the job is complete.

 

To choose the perfect handyman for your repair needs, do your due diligence by reviewing their background, references, licenses, and certifications. Get a written quote and avoid the lowest bidder. Utilize online tools to organize your repair needs and establish a work schedule. Finally, inquire about their clean-up services. Remember not to rush the process as the quality of work may suffer.

 

Make Home Maintenance Easier with an Experienced Handyman

 

For your home renovation, restoration, and remodeling needs in North Central Florida, contact Gainesville Restoration & Remodeling today!

7 Typical Garage Door Problems and How to Fix Them

7 Typical Garage Door Problems and How to Fix Them – The opinions expressed by the author in this and all guest blogs are not necessarily those of Gainesville Restoration and Remodeling.

Garage Door Problems

7 Typical Garage Door Problems and How to Fix Them

 

The garage door has evolved over the years from a manually-operated wooden door that was often too heavy to conveniently open and close. Nowadays, garage doors come in almost all varieties: steel, wood, glass, fiberglass, and aluminum. Most of these doors are opened through a remote control or an app on your mobile phone that you can use even if you are on the other side of the world.

Modern garage doors are also equipped with several high-tech features, such as backup power when blackouts happen and an insulation system. Nevertheless, even if they are modern and have highly-advanced technology, they will still require proper care and maintenance.

Additionally, garage door repair should be the primary solution the minute you realize something is wrong with the door. However, it is also vital for you to know how to identify garage door problems so you can apply the proper action for the situation.

 

Signs That Say Your Garage Door Needs Repair

 

1.  Your garage door is unusually noisy.

When your garage door makes loud noises, don’t waste any time and immediately check out what is causing the noise. The volume of the noise shouldn’t matter because even the softest noise is an indication that there can be problems with your garage door.

The first thing you should check is the track’s nuts and bolts. If any of them are loose, these can cause the door to become noisy, especially if they move up or down. If this is what you are experiencing, ensure that you tighten these nuts and bolts. Once done, check if it still makes noises. If it still does, check if the track is off the line. If it is, this may be what is causing all the noise.

Another possible problem would be the need for lubrication. Lubricate the garage door’s springs and rollers, or have them changed if the problem persists.

It is also possible that the problem isn’t with the door itself but with the loose belt of the opener unit. Once this is determined, tighten the unit right away. Have it replaced immediately if the problem isn’t resolved after the tightening.

2.  Your garage door does not fully close.

Garage doors have something that looks like a camera lens. These are called photo eyes, and these should be the first thing you should check if your garage door does not completely or fully close. These “eyes” are actually sensors, and if they are dirty or something gets in their way, they won’t function properly. Check them to make sure that nothing is obstructing their way, or wipe off dirt using a glass cleaner and soft, clean, dry cloth,

Ensure as well that the photo eyes are properly aligned.

3. Your garage door has gaps.

Garage door gaps are caused by constant use (wear and tear). If you do not contact your garage door specialist right away, this can cause serious problems, such as water buildup.

This may also be caused by a cable or spring that has snapped. If this is the case, the cable or spring should be replaced immediately.

4. Your garage remote is not functioning properly.

Your garage door is not working. No matter what you do, it doesn’t budge. Have you tried checking the remote? It might need a new set of batteries, especially if you haven’t replaced them since you started using the door.

You should also check the antenna and ensure that it is working properly. Lastly, your remote may just be out of range, so move closer to your garage door and try opening it again.

5. You hear your garage door’s motor running, but after a few seconds, the door still would not open.

If a storm recently hit your area or if you have had power interruptions quite recently, you can experience this problem with your garage door. If your garage door’s motor is running but doesn’t open, it may be that the door’s disconnect switch was engaged, which means the garage door can be opened manually if there is a storm, power outage, and other similar situations. Sometimes, you may forget to disconnect the switch after the power comes back on.

6. Your garage door makes a high-pitched sound.

A high-pitched sound similar to scraping comes from your garage door as it goes up and down is a sign that there is something wrong with the tracks and rollers. You can clean the tracks yourself, but you have to ensure that you check each track from one end to the other. Remove any debris from the tracks and check out its overhead parts. Ensure that there are no loose tracks – and tighten the bolts if necessary.

Call your garage door service specialist if you want to make sure that all loose parts are tightened, and the necessary repairs are properly done.

7. Your door shakes or vibrates.

There is nothing cool about garage doors that shake or vibrate. Even the slightest shaking or vibration can indicate problems with the rollers and tracks or opener. They have to be regularly cleaned and well-maintained to prevent debris from gathering around them.

Get in touch with your garage door specialist if the problem persists after a thorough cleaning.

 

The list above enumerates the most common problems your garage door may have. The best thing to do to prevent such situations from happening to you is to have your garage door regularly cleaned and maintained.

Home Safety Checklist

Home Safety Checklist – The opinions expressed by the author in this and all guest blogs are not necessarily those of Gainesville Restoration and Remodeling.

 

Home Safety Checklist

Home Safety Checklist

 

Most people spend a tremendous amount of time in their homes, whether it’s a house, condo, apartment, or something else entirely. However, most homeowners often forget about the hidden hazards at home that can put everyone living in the property at risk. The statistics are staggering; at least 33 million people are injured at home annually!

The good news is you can maintain a healthier and safer household by conducting routine safety checks. From garage door repair to checking for signs of black mold, it is necessary to stay on top of your home maintenance at all times to prevent safety hazards and costly repairs.

Ensure the safety of everyone in your household by keeping the following home safety checklist in mind:

 

Test your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors

The importance of having a working smoke and carbon monoxide detector cannot be overstated. According to the National Fire Protection Association, people are 55% less likely to die in home fires if they have a working smoke system.

The US Fire Administration recommends testing the batteries of your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly. It is also ideal to replace the batteries at least once or twice yearly. Swapping the device every ten years (or earlier if there are problems during testing) is also recommended.

Check your fire extinguishers

While the number of fires has been reduced in half since the 80s, the risk of death during fires has stayed the same. To prevent a blaze from getting out of hand, experts recommend having a fire extinguisher at home. However, it is important to remember that fire extinguishers are only effective when properly maintained.

Check yearly if your fire extinguisher has not expired yet. You need to also check if the safety pin is intact. It is also important to keep the fire extinguisher damage-free and clean. It is also ideal to regularly check if the nozzle is working as it should. Lastly, you need to have your fire extinguisher replaced every 10 to 12 years.

Check for signs of black mold

Black mold is frequently found in your home’s moist and warm areas, like the basement and bathroom. Mold can trigger symptoms like wheezing, fever, itchy eyes, and shortness of breath. Black mold has also been known to contribute to the development of asthma in children.

Make it a point to check for any signs of mold on a routine basis. Here’s how you can go about it:

  • Look for mold clusters or spots, particularly in damp places or rooms where you have had water damage or leaks.
  • If you find any, put some protective gear on and open the doors and windows. Throw away any moldy items you will find.
  • Ensure you also pull out and replace any mold-covered surfaces like ceiling tiles or carpets. Treat the area with bleach.
  • Allow everything to dry completely. If a leak causes the mold, make sure it is fixed.

Other basic home safety basics to keep in mind include:

  • If built before 1978, your home likely has lead paint. Remodeling projects that disturb lead paint might spread lead dust throughout your home. Check with your state or local health department for low-dust home remodeling tips.
  • Make sure your electric heaters are grounded and have a three-prong plug. Instead of using extension cords, it is ideal that they are connected directly to the wall outlets. It is also important to never leave kids unsupervised or alone in a room with a space heater.
  • Do not leave toiletries, medicines, and other household products in nightstands, drawers, or anywhere where children can have easy access to them. Also, make sure controlled substances like sedatives and narcotics are in locked containers.
  • Have a fully stocked first aid kit that includes gauze, bandages, antiseptic, and medical tape. Keep your first aid kit in a place where you have easy access to it.
  • Have your HVAC system cleaned, inspected, and tuned up regularly. This can help ensure the air conditioner and furnace are safe and ready for use when you need them.
  • While foundation damage is not common, it can present serious flooding danger. Common signs of foundation damage include cracks and wet spots in floors and walls, particularly over doors or windows where the ceiling and the walls meet.
  • To ensure nobody will stumble down dark hallways, add nightlights for safe passage after the lights are turned off. Lights with motion sensors can help ensure your hallways are safe and you won’t waste energy or disturb others.
  • Check your light switches and outlets for cracked or missing covers. Make sure the contacts are not exposed in light switches with missing covers. For homes with small children, add childproof outlet covers. This is important, so the little ones are protected as they explore your home.
  • Check for cracked or missing shingles and determine if they need to be repaired or replaced. Working with a roofer is also a good idea so they can inspect and identify other issues like dry rot, which can lead to the roof sagging. To prevent any ice dams in winter, ensure there is adequate insulation.

Final Thoughts

Last but not the least, make sure you have an escape plan in the event of a fire. It is also recommended that you have an escape plan that can address other applicable emergencies you might face. Depending on where you reside, it can be a tornado, flood, or earthquake. Whatever the emergency may be, make sure you have a comprehensive emergency plan. You need to also run regular drills so everyone in the house knows what to do.

 

Home Safety Checklist

How to Prepare for Major Home Repairs

How to Prepare for Major Home Repairs – Today’s guest blog is by Parenting with Kris. The opinions expressed by the author in this and all guest blogs are not necessarily those of Gainesville Restoration and Remodeling.

Home Repairs

How to Prepare for Major Home Repairs

Major home repairs never come at a good time. Whether it’s a broken-down water heater or a roof that’s caving in, they seem to always sneak up and do their best to wreck your budget. That’s why it’s so important to prepare for the unexpected. Gainesville Restoration Roofing & Remodeling wants to help, so explore these practical ways you can prepare as a homeowner for the inevitable major repairs, from knowing about common repairs to paying for them once they arise.

 

Common Major Repairs

 

The first part of preparing is to learn what kind of repairs to expect. Below you’ll find a few of the most common major fixes homeowners often face, though you will also want to learn about additional types of repairs as well:

 

Roof replacement. The roof is one of the most important structural aspects of your home, and it protects the inside of your home from outdoor elements. Roofs typically last 20 to 30 years, depending on the material of the shingles. The best way to avoid having to do a full-on replacement out of nowhere is to have your roof inspected annually for leaks and wear and tear. Then, repair the roof as needed.

 

HVAC. Heating and air conditioning units are known to stop working suddenly, and it’s usually during the hottest or coldest days of the year. Regularly change out your air filters, and have your HVAC regularly inspected and maintained if you want to prevent a sizable replacement bill.

 

Water heater. Like HVACs, hot water heaters tend to quit with no warning. You’re enjoying a relaxing shower, and the next thing you know, you feel like you’ve taken the polar plunge and you can’t breathe. Sometimes, however, there are signs of failure before it happens.

 

Siding replacement. Siding can last forever, but sometimes it needs replacing after 10 to 30 years — depending on the material. Wood siding will typically last the longest, especially if you treat it (i.e., pressure wash, caulk, paint/stain) every few years. Vinyl is the cheapest of siding options, but it also needs to be replaced more often than other types. If you have vinyl siding, pressure washing it once a year can help it look good for longer.

 

Saving Up for Repairs

 

The best way to pay for major home repairs is to do it without acquiring any debt. Consider starting an emergency repair fund, in which you allocate a portion of your income each month to a savings account. A general rule of thumb is to put in 10 percent of your monthly mortgage payment; so, if your mortgage is $850, you would put $85 into your emergency fund each month.

If you need money for a repair before you have your fund built up, consider borrowing from a family member or friend, or applying online for a personal loan. If you have time to prepare for a significant repair, you can always refinance your home and use some of the equity you’ve built up, but this process can take as long as four weeks.

 

Those who have debt holding them back from assembling necessary funds have opportunities, too. With a debt consolidation loan, settlement, bankruptcy, or other solution, you can get your finances back on track and find breathing room.

 

Hire the Right Help

 

Once you have your problem assessed and funds assembled, make sure you connect with a high-quality contractor like Gainesville Restoration Roofing & Remodeling to help put your home back in order. Gainesville Restoration Roofing & Remodeling can assist both commercial projects and homeowners, transforming bathrooms, rebuilding roofs, clearing water damage, and much more. And if you’re looking elsewhere, be sure to get recommendations, assemble a list of interview questions, and review the portfolio of anyone you’re considering for your project.

 

Big repairs are part of being a homeowner, and it’s important to be prepared when these problems come up. Research what major home repairs can arise and how to avoid/delay them through inspections and maintenance. Be selective when you’re choosing a contractor, and start building your emergency repair fund today. Being prepared even a little can soften the financial blow of an unforeseen major home repair. And if that older home is proving to be too much, a newer home can be the better choice for your family and bank account.

 

Contact Gainesville Restoration Roofing & Remodeling for more information on how they can help you with your home project!

Home Inspections – 10 Tips To Ace Your Home Inspection

Home Inspections – 10 Tips To Ace Your Home Inspection. Today’s guest blog is by New York State Lawyer. The opinions expressed by the author in this and all guest blogs are not necessarily those of Gainesville Restoration and Remodeling

Home Inspections

Home Inspections – 10 Tips To Ace Your Home Inspection

The purpose of a home inspection is to guarantee the safety of the people who are going to live within the home. The results of a home inspection can make or break a deal for a house on the market. The construction plan and quality of materials utilized play a huge role in establishing the integrity of the real estate. Therefore, consider all aspects of your house design if you wish to sell it in the future. Here are 10 ways to assure a smooth inspection and leave a lasting impression on the potential buyer:

1. Roof Repairs

Problems in the roof are a major red flag in a home inspection. The presence of any leaks can greatly damage your score. Repairing roofs can be costly, but you should call in a contractor to have a look and give a reasonable estimate. Refrain from temporary or cosmetic fixes because this could lead to a personal injury lawsuit.

2. Fix Drainage Problems

Poor drainage is the most frequent shortcoming discovered by home inspectors. It can ruin your home’s foundation and cause further problems like cracks in the walls, stuck door, tilted cabinets, floor tile upheaval, and dampness. Your downspouts should be wide and draw water away from your property.

3. Even out Floors

Slide a marble across the floor to assess its unevenness; if it keeps rolling in one direction, call in a professional to evaluate the level of damage. Sometimes the issue is minor, owing to wearing material of old tiles. Other times, the problem might indicate deeper issues, such as an impaired foundation; in this case, restoration might kill your budget.

4. Lighting Check

Ensure sound lighting to eradicate any issues with electricity. If the inspector comes across burned out bulbs, they may mention ‘faulty wiring’ in the report.

5. De-clutter

A happy home inspector will certainly work in your favor, so facilitate the process by making the task easier for him/her. Empty all appliances, remove obstacles, and keep the place tidy. Moving around the house should be convenient; if any part is unreachable, he/she will mark it as ‘inaccessible’ and the inspection will go into pending.

6. Eliminate Plumbing Issues

Leaky faucets, clogged sinks & toilets, exposed rusty pipes, and other defective products can raise serious concerns. The buyer and the home inspection agent may assess it as a bigger problem than it really is. Therefore, call in a plumber and make sure your plumbing system looks flawless. Consider replacing rusty pipes or fixtures.

7. Enhance the Exterior

A house that looks beautiful from the outside has good aesthetic value, which increases its worth. The windows, driveway, fence, sidewalks, and backyard should appear as ‘prim and proper’.

8. HVAC Service

The HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system of the house should be serviced before the inspection takes place. Functional issues may devalue your property or change the mind of the potential buyer. A house that goes off the market and then returns shortly gains a bad reputation; people become suspicious that there’s something terribly wrong with it.

9. Keep the Receipts

When you spend money to bring a house to pristine conditions, you must have proof of it. If the inspector or buyer has apprehensions, you can show that you took care of things.

10. Admit to Obvious Issues

If you failed to get the place fixed before home inspection or prefer the buyer to invest in repairs, be frank about it. You must point out the noticeable faults in advance because the inspector will discover them anyway. Hiding the facts and then getting caught will only make you look dishonest.

Home Inspections – 10 Tips To Ace Your Home Inspection

Winterizing Your Home Before Winter’s Arrival

Winterizing Your Home Before Winter’s Arrival. Today’s guest blog is by Clara Beaufort of Gardener Gigs. The opinions expressed by the author in this and all guest blogs are not necessarily those of Gainesville Restoration and Remodeling.

Winterizing Your Home Before Winter’s Arrival

Winterizing Your Home Before Winter’s Arrival

You might be feeling a chill in the air this month. This is the time of year to winterize your house against the upcoming cold winter months. Here are some tips for doing just that.

Consider your storage needs

Do you have a place to properly store your outdoor equipment? If not, you may want to buy a small building for the backyard. That way, your items will be kept secure and protected from the elements. There are many types of building materials to choose from, but wood and steel are most commonly used. Steel is stronger than wood and can withstand high winds and snowfalls, while wood is more visually pleasing. Consider the pros and cons of each material before proceeding to buy the storage building.

Focus on fire safety

Most fire departments agree that you should change the batteries on your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors once a year, and a good time to do that is when you set your clocks back.

If any of your smoke detectors are close to ten years old, replace them with a new, ten-year detector with a sealed battery. You don’t need to replace the batteries on these new detectors.

Experts now say you should put the smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in every significant living space of your home, including the kitchen, den, living room, and bedrooms. You can put the old detectors in household trash without guilt. Just remove the batteries first and bag them before tossing them.

Don’t have a carbon monoxide detector? Check with your local fire department. Sometimes fire stations give them away.

Other fire hazards are dirty filters and poorly vented appliances. Make sure your HVAC filters are being changed every 30 days and that your dryer filter is being cleaned after every laundry load. Set your family up on a schedule to check that these important chores are being done.

Poorly vented clothes dryers are also fire hazards. Check your dryer vent to make sure that it vents outside directly, without no kinks in the air hose. It should NOT be venting into the basement or attic. That’s a fire waiting to happen.

Keep pipes unfrozen

One thing all home improvement experts agree on is that you should not let your pipes freeze. Frozen pipes are basically a game of Russian roulette. They might thaw with no harm done, or they might burst and cost $20,000 in damages.

There are a lot of different opinions about how you should protect your pipes. Some people think you should use heating tape. Others think you should protect your pipes with spray foam. Another idea is to use a material called Armaflex which also insulates.

Consider your lifestyle and pick your insulation. If you are likely to travel at Christmas and cut off the electricity, you need pipe insulation that does not require electricity. And don’t forget to drip your faucets.

Examine your roof

This is also a good time to examine your roof. You really don’t want to be doing that when temperatures are freezing or sweltering. If you have balance issues or are afraid of heights, you will need to hire someone to do a full roof inspection.

If you are fearless on a ladder, you can do it yourself. You will need to visually inspect all areas of the roof on the outside. Any warped, curled, or missing shingles need to be replaced. Check the mortar around the chimney to make sure it’s intact.

Then go up in the attic and look for any mold or moisture seepage. If you have water damage in your attic, it’s time for a new roof. Tip: Most roofing professionals will not remind you that you can lay one roof over another until you have three roofs. So you can save money by re-roofing over your current roof.

When it comes to home maintenance, fall is the right time to do outdoor work and energy improvement projects on your home. Get these simple chores done so you can enjoy the beautiful fall season.

Winterizing Your Home Before Winter’s Arrival

 

Importance Of Property Maintenance

Importance Of Property Maintenance – Today’s guest blog is by the Law Offices of Paul Levine. The opinions expressed by the author in this and all guest blogs are not necessarily those of Gainesville Restoration and Remodeling.

Importance Of Property Maintenance

Importance Of Property Maintenance

When a visitor or guest slips and falls on someone’s property or business, there is an assumption that a victim will sue the property owner without hesitation, and receive full compensation against the sustained injuries. However, the reality is very different. The assumption of receiving full compensation stems from the media showing the chain of events in movies or on television. But, creating a successful premises liability claim after a slip & fall on a residential or business property is a little more difficult than it seems, as it often requires the expertise of a personal injury attorney.

The importance of property maintenance cannot be ignored, as it saves the owner from a potential lawsuit. For instance, if you keep delaying routine repairs to your property, it can be problematic later on since the building deteriorates faster. This could lead to personal injury accidents, and create a substantial base to file a claim against you. Therefore, it is imperative to invest in preventive property maintenance services. If you are sued, you will then need to hire a personal injury attorney who will need to prove in court that you are not at fault.

It may have been negligence on the part of the property owner that caused the patron to slip, or it could have been an unfortunate and largely unavoidable situation. Accidents happen, so it is not always because of the negligence. Therefore, to win an injury claim for a slip and fall accident, the plaintiff needs to prove in court that the negligence was not their own.

Unreasonable Negligence in a Slip & Fall Case

No property owner gets to know about every slip hazard the moment it happens. However, every property owner should be aware of the potential actions that could be taken against them and should take actions to protect themselves from it. Therefore, when the expectation is not met, and negligence is found on behalf of the property owner and not on the person who fell, then a lawsuit may be filed that will compel the property owner to pay for the injuries sustained.

A case in point is, consider a situation in which a shopper drops a jar of juice at a grocery store, and makes a puddle in the aisle. The shopper tries to step away from the puddle, slips and get hurt. Hence, now all the liability is on that person because he was the only one aware of the issue, and did not ask for help from a store employee.

On the contrary, if that shopper, who had created the mess, walked away and told someone of the puddle, then the liability starts to shift. Now, if another shopper comes and slips, then the store can be held responsible for not cleaning it up.

Conclusion

Property maintenance is important, and in the event of neglect, the property owner could be held responsible. However, to achieve success in a premises liability case, it is advisable to hire an experienced personal injury attorney. This will increases the likelihood of you receiving a settlement claim. Therefore, having an experienced personal injury attorney by your side is of significant importance. Because of the statute of limitations, or the time, you have to file a claim and for other possible legal requirements, the presence of an experienced attorney is mandatory. So, if you are injured due to someone else’s negligence, then getting the right attorney who could help you in this critical time is important. An attorney can also help you in getting the maximum medical coverage for the injuries you have sustained in the accident.

Six Signs That It May Be Time to Renovate Your House

Six Signs That It May Be Time to Renovate Your House. Today’s guest blog is by Rachel Stinson. The opinions expressed by the author in this and all guest blogs are not necessarily those of Gainesville Restoration and Remodeling.

Some of our possessions can be replaced when we feel they are no longer needed. Things like cars can easily be sold and replaced. However, it is not practicable, to think the same for a house.

A house is a large and immobile asset and like other possessions, age can take its toll on it. Every time there are major damages in your home, it is not practical to go in search of a vacant land for sale in order to construct a new home. Of course, if you are a real estate agent, you might frequently need land for sale for business purposes. This is not the case for your residential home. It can be extremely expensive and exhausting to find a new home and move in.

If your home is in need of repair or outdated, you can consider renovating. In addition to improving the appearance of your home, renovating can also improve the value of your home. A lot of homeowners do not remodel their homes for financial reasons. In other cases, homeowners may not recognize the need for a renovation project.

Some individuals consider renovation simply because they want a new appearance. It is better to fix things when damages can be easily repaired. The following signs indicate that your house might be due for renovation.

Six Signs That It May Be Time to Renovate Your House

Six Signs That It May Be Time to Renovate Your House

 

  1. More Individuals, Less Space:

If you are a family person, your family size might have grown as the years passed. Your house may feel frequently cluttered and unorganized, contents from the closets keep spilling and in the children bedrooms, bunk beds no longer do the trick. Before you consider buying a new house which is a large expense, there is a solution that can rid you of the constant clutter.

A few walls can be knocked down in order to create more space; more bedrooms could be added to accommodate the growing family. With this, you will be able to solve the issue and give your house a new look.

 

  1. Leaking Roofs

Your house should shield you from harsh weather conditions, like the scorching sun, cold winds, and a heavy downpour from the skies. A roof plays an essential role in this function. If the roof is not doing its job, this might be an indication that it is time to touch up things.

Water stains across the ceilings and down the walls might not bother you but if nothing is done, this could develop into further problems. Roof leaks, no matter how small, can lead to rotted framing, ruptured sheathing, damaged ceilings, molds, uneven insulation and electrical problems. Affected ceiling paint would darken and the ceiling plaster may expand; mold can spread throughout the house structure and take over your furniture and clothing space. If your ceiling carries electric wiring, a leaking roof could cause shorted wires and pose a fire threat.  In essence, fixing your roof can save you from having a deteriorated structure.

 

Six Signs That It May Be Time to Renovate Your House

  1. Dreary Looking Walls: 

With time, the paint on your walls is susceptible to start chipping. This might be caused by dust, dirt, chemicals, low-quality paint jobs, leaking roofs or for the external walls, harsh weather conditions. In warm temperatures, overexposure to UV rays can cause fading in the exterior paint.

Whichever way the damage is caused, paint troubles can easily make your home look worn out. The walls begin to look unattractive and this appearance may suggest that it has not been renovated for years. You can carry out a regular check on your house for signs of chipping or cracking. If your house fits this description, you should consider renovating your home.

Painting is a cost-friendly process that quickly restores the appearance of your house. Adding a fresh layer of paint to the internal and external walls of your home is a great idea. You can also repaint the baseboards, and touch up walls that look worn out in the kitchen and bathrooms.

 

  1. Plumbing problems:

Damaged pipes that go undetected can cause problems in the building and also inflate your water bill. A plumbing system is hidden within the building structure and can easily be forgotten. An existing problem can rear its head through the sinks, toilet bowls, or bathtubs.

Clogged pipes and blocked drains can be dreadful. You can fix these issues when they pop up but as the years go by, it is advisable that you invest in new plumbing. It is best to reach out to professional plumbers to find out the root cause of the problem and suggest the best ways to tackle it.

 

Six Signs That It May Be Time to Renovate Your House

 

  1. Termite Attacks:

 

Termites are small creatures that have the ability to cause great damage. When there show up in groups, they can leave your furniture and entire home in pieces. They are able to eat a good amount of wood; once they get started on this operation, there is a decline in the strength and safety of the house structure.

You can look out for a few signs that indicate that your house structure is infested with termites. Some of these signs could be confused for water damage. The floors and ceiling may have a swollen appearance. Watch out for hollow sounds when you knock on your furniture and other parts of the house made of wood.

It is advisable to deal with a termite infestation immediately so as not to fall into serious difficulties. If your house is under a termite attack, consider renovating it. Also, contact pest control professionals so as to prevent these damages from recurring.

 

Six Signs That It May Be Time to Renovate Your House

 

  1. Your House Feels Out-Dated:

Some design features from the past can still add charm to your home and give it a vintage feel. Some other features do not stand the test of time. A feature that was trendy at a previous time might be an indicator to friends (or future owners, if you are thinking about selling) that your home has not been renovated in a long time.

Of course, you may like your house the way it is. However, there are some important rooms in your house that you should check out. Outdated looking bathrooms or kitchens should be renovated. As much as possible, it is important to modernize these rooms and keep them up to date; this would significantly update the general feel of your home.  These improvements will have a big impact and make your home feel much newer than before.

Renovating your bathroom would require new sinks, faucets, toilets, flooring and shower walls. For renovating your kitchen, you might need the assistance of a pro to help you manage your space and rearrange the kitchen. You can discuss with a home remodel contractor about your kitchen and bathroom remodel. This activity could turn out to be expensive; however, it is totally worth the deal.

A home is a place of peace and comfort. A lot of times, it is more practical to touch up your house than to replace it. As you notice some warning signs, you can consider renovating several aspects of your house. These improvements have an impact on the appearance of the home; it feels newer and more presentable. Also, if you would like to put up your house for sale, renovation keeps the house in tiptop quality so that the worth increases.

 

Six Signs That It May Be Time to Renovate Your House

 

rachel stinson About the author – Rachel Stinson has always had a knack for writing, analytics, food, fashion, and places. Blogging has combined all four for her with an added bonus of enthusiastic audiences. She expertly analyzes real estates, restaurants, and Dignam with respect to pricing and people involved and can express her opinions in an unhesitant, engaging manner for all matters.

Reasons to Hire a Public Adjuster for Fire Damage

Reasons to Hire a Public Adjuster for Fire Damage. Today’s guest blog is by Churchill Public Adjusters. The opinions expressed by the author in this and all guest blogs are not necessarily those of Gainesville Restoration and Remodeling.

If your property has suffered the fire damages, the process of the insurance claim can be a long and tiring property loss. The claim seems to be very simple and easily resolvable though it may result in underpayments, delayed settlements or inadequate repairs to the property. The property owners mostly accept the estimates that are presented by the insurance company unaware of the actual settlement amount and the jargon that are common in the insurance industry.

Reasons to Hire a Public Adjuster for Fire Damage

Reasons to Hire a Public Adjuster for Fire Damage

Miami Public Adjuster can advocate you in a fire damage insurance claim from the start to settlement. Following are the reason you must hire Miami Fire Damage Adjusters:

1: for filing and documentation of evidence:
If your claim is large scale or is very catastrophic, a public adjuster is a professional who can assist you. Miami Public Adjusters will appoint an adjuster to document your claim. The adjuster appointed by the insurance company works for the best interest of the employer.  Miami adjusters consist of professionals who understand all the terms and conditions of the policy, all the details of included and excluded items of the insurance policy. If you are not hiring a public adjuster then maybe you are fighting a lost battle. For instance, if you have never made a list of your inventory and the fire damages your house how will you prove the damages of the house? Public adjusters have the complete know-how of how to make sure you get the most reimbursement possible.

Reasons to Hire a Public Adjuster for Fire Damage

2. They can understand the language and depth of your insurance policy:
Public adjusters work for the policyholders; they help them to recover the financial loss.  Although insurance claims consist of an array of complex requirement, sections, processes, and terms that are necessary to add if you want the maximum settlement. You must know the basic terms i.e. business interruption coverage, actual cash value, replacement cost an period of restoration etc. if you are filing the case yourself. If you have no experience in claiming for the property, you must hire a public adjuster so that you must get the maximum settlement.

3. If you don’t have time to deal with the insurance claim:
Damage to a property or business is very stressful. If you are a business owner you may have many other duties other than the insurance claim. If you are homeowner you may have an emotional attachment to your house that can affect your lifestyle or mental health. This is the actual time that an adjuster can help you to get rid of the claim stress.

Reasons to Hire a Public Adjuster for Fire Damage

Our team of the adjuster will do the following things:
Assess the insurance policy to create the best potential policy for showing your claim to the insurance company.
File and authenticate every point of the damaged property.
Discuss on your behalf with your carrier.
Keep you educated every point of the claim.
Resolve the claim for the all-out sum with not as much of annoyance for you.

4. The claim handling of the insurance company is not satisfactory:
A fire damage claim can take a lot of time. If you think that your insurance company is ignoring your case or they are not responding, it is better to include a public adjuster in your team from Miami Public Adjusters.

Reasons to Hire a Public Adjuster for Fire Damage

Pros And Cons Of Hiring A Public Adjuster

Pros And Cons Of Hiring A Public Adjuster – Today’s guest blog is by Churchill Public Adjusters. The opinions expressed by the author in this and all guest blogs are not necessarily those of Gainesville Restoration and Remodeling.

Pros And Cons Of Hiring A Public Adjuster

Pros And Cons Of Hiring A Public Adjuster

Home sweet home is the best place on earth. It is such a place where one feel relieves and enjoys the peace with their family. But what if any incident damages your home, building or office? It is like a nightmare to suffer from huge disaster due to flood damage, roof damage, mold, damage from fire etc. Dealing with this scenario is mandatory. Hence, one should try to get out of this situation as early as possible. It is the right time for the insurance claim. Why not enjoy a fair compensation smoothly and rapidly? Claiming procedure is quite hectic and time-consuming. But, having a representative that advises you and provide you the quick positive outcomes is a real blessing.

Ever Increasing Demand of Public Adjuster:

The need of public adjuster cannot be denied. Hiring a public adjuster is a sagacious step. Dealing with insurance claims was not this much easier before. Churchill public adjuster believes in to relax the victim and aids him in all aspects in order to get the fair insurance amount.  In this hectic life, one does not find enough time to deal with such problems and keep himself updated regarding the procedures. There is a need of one who knows all the tactics and works efficiently. Hence, the demand for public adjuster is increasing day by day.

Pros of Hiring Public Adjuster:

The devastating damage caused by hurricane, flood, storms etc troubles one’s life. This is the most crucial time that can be addressed well by hiring someone that works on your behalf. Is not it interesting? Surely, it is! Ensure to hire the Public Adjuster before the person from insurance visits your damaged property. Let us have a look at the pros of hiring a public adjuster in order to make the claiming procedure easy and tension free.

1. The huge financial loss that resulted due to the property damage leads towards the anxiety. One can reduce the stress and anxiety level by enhancing the peace of mind. It is possible when one gets assistance in insurance claiming from a professional and experienced person.

2. Enjoy getting a larger settlement if you consider hiring a public adjuster.

3. One can keep oneself safe from complex paperwork and extreme hassle.

4. A public adjuster can combat the problems that might arise during the claiming. He can combat on the basis of experience and skill. The chances of FOMO (Fear of Missing out) reduces as well.

Cons of Hiring Public Adjuster:

Although on hiring a public adjuster, the problems of claiming magically gets resolved yet there is another dark aspect of it. There are some drawbacks too of hiring a public adjuster. Let us have a glance at these:

1. Hiring a public adjuster without having any prior research is quite harmful as there are possibilities of choosing an inexperienced and unskilled person.

2. The public adjuster serves the victim and charges his fee accordingly. One has to pay a specific % of claim amount to the public adjuster.

3. In order to make their services worthy, they raise the cost of their service. Ultimately, the customer has to pay them which in turn burdens the customer too.

4. Hiding any information from public adjuster regarding the incident and damage can prove fatal. Hence, it is required to let him know all the minute details of the incident so that he can assist the customer according to his vigilance.

Pros And Cons Of Hiring A Public Adjuster

Gainesville Florida Sinkhole Dangers

Gainesville Florida Sinkhole Dangers – Gainesville Restoration and Remodeling. Sinkholes are depressions or “holes” in the surface of land that occur throughout West-Central Florida. In addition, sinkholes can be shallow or deep; big or small. But, all are a result of the underlying limestone dissolving. Due to a process that takes sometimes thousands of years. As a result, the water gradually dissolves small parts of the rock; enlarging its natural fissure which creates cavities beneath. Also, sinkholes are called different things in many different countries. While some of these other names for a sinkhole include Shake Hole, Cenote, Swallow Hole or Doline. Sinkholes will often form gradually or suddenly.

 Gainesville Florida Sinkhole Dangers

Gainesville Florida Sinkhole Dangers

The visible signs that a sinkhole may be forming include; sagging trees or fence posts, doors or windows that no longer close properly, and rainwater collecting in unlikely places. There is not a definite way to know when a sinkhole will occur and shake things up. Some sinkholes are visible; while some may go unnoticed for some time.

Sinkholes can destroy homes and in some cases even cause death. Usually, these catastrophic sinkholes give you some warning over the course of hours. But, the entire state of Florida is karst landscape and an irregular limestone region; with sinkholes, underground streams, and caverns. Sinkholes are so common that insurers are obligated, by law, to offer coverage to homeowners who ask for it. You want to make sure that you are prepared and know who to call; if a sinkhole affects your home, property, or business. At Gainesville Restoration, we have the knowledge and skills to take care of damage sinkholes cause. We offer a time-frame guarantee and only use quality products while completing each project. Our team is here to handle all of your restoration needs. In addition, we offer free and detailed estimates.

From estimation to completion, our team is ready to handle all your restoration needs in Gainesville or Ocala. In addition, we also service the surrounding towns of; Micanopy, Palatka and Silver Springs, Belleview, Dunnellon, Summerfield, The Villages, Eustis, Leesburg, Anthony, and Citra.

Let Gainesville Restoration and Remodeling put your mind at ease and help keep your family safe. You can reach our expert licensed team by calling our Gainesville office at; (352) 372-1221 or our Ocala office at (352) 622-5277. You can also send us an email with any concerns. 

Gainesville 352-372-1221