May maintenance: Decks, Sprinklers   Because decks are exposed to the elements all year round, it’s a good idea to establish a routine of upkeep that will protect your deck and prevent expensive repairs. Remove debris from between deck boards using a putty knife.  Pay special attention to the areas where deck boards cross the […]

There are several easy and inexpensive ways to increase a water heater’s operating efficiency and longevity. Some things—adding insulation and setting the temperature—have to be done only once. Others, such as flushing the tank and checking the anode rod, should be done annually. The benefits of caring for your water heater are clear. Setting the […]

All appliances and plumbing fixtures that use water have a shut-off valve.  Locate and test all valves for water supply. Most shut-off valves have not been operated for long periods of time.  We recommend operating each shut-off valve to: toilet bowl, water heater, under sinks, main shut-off, hose faucets, and all others.  We recommend you […]

Your HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) system is a major part of your home with a significant expense.  Proper care and maintenance will ensure its efficiency and extend its lifespan.  Proper regular maintenance by a licensed professional HVAC company is worth the expense, and far beyond the average “handyman.” The average homeowner can contribute […]

The following is a reprint of my article published in the “Sarasota/Manatee Realtor” magazine for October 2015. The pre-purchase, general home inspection is a visual examination of the components and systems of a house, and is an important part of the home buying and selling process. All parties involved want the inspection to go well.  […]