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    How Long Does Asbestos Stay in The Air After Remediation

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    Asbestos in The Air
    How Long Does Asbestos Stay in The Air

    On average asbestos stays in the air for 12 – 24 hours after being disturbed. During demolition of materials that contain asbestos, particles get airborne with dust and can seriously harm people when inhaled.

    This however applies to certain types of operations, when demolition of contaminated material creates high level of dust. Materials like vinyl tiles may not create any potential danger and air contamination at all.

    Designated substance survey should provide not only lab test with amount of asbestos present, but also suggest methods of remediation with associated dangers.

    Time of Asbestos in the Air:

    • Outside / Exterior
    • Ventilated Facility
    • Unventilated Room

    During the time that asbestos particles fly in the air, only trained remediation personnel with personal protective equipment can be present. All other staff and visitors have to leave and be reminded of danger that asbestos poses to health.

    Warning signs and health risks can be posted for educating all workers. Additional training and safety talks won’t hurt personnel as well. Especially when building premises have materials contaminated with asbestos.

    Outside/ExteriorVentilated FacilityUnventilated Room
    1 – 3 Hours 12 – 24 Hours 24 – 48 Hours
    How long does asbestos stay in air with ventilation or outside

    Outside / Exterior – occurs when full structure is demolished with large equipment or some exterior parts of building are removed.

    Roof tiles, siding and even insulation can have asbestos in it. Dust particles can fly away and potentially hurt neighbours that are nearby if not controlled by sealing premises or simple water down.

    Ventilated Facility – with renovation of large office buildings or warehouse facilities area of work is quite large and often easily ventilated.

    After work is completed all ducts have to be properly cleaned and washed out from dust and asbestos particles that may have been caught inside.

    Unventilated Room – old homes that were constructed at least 50 – 100 years ago have poor or no ventilation. HVAC ducts were not used back in those days and only source of air was a window.

    Remediation in these types of projects is pacifically dangerous due to high amount of asbestos in small confined space. Every year new regulation and measures are introduced by local regulators.

    How Long Does Asbestos Stain in the Air with Dust?

    Asbestos is not a material, but mineral that was added into compound for more strength and insulation purpose.

    In other words if material that contains asbestos makes large amount of dust when cut or demolished than asbestos will occur in air for longer time. Materials that don’t create dust whatsoever are much less dangerous.

    Insulation fibers are very light and can keep on flying for much longer with asbestos particles in it.

    Cement and plaster compounds are heavy but break into tiny pieces that create dust. For shorter period of time, dust with asbestos can completely fill the air in small spaces.

    Vinyl and metal are very heavy when cut or broken into pieces. They emit less asbestos in the air and it falls on the ground within minutes.

    Speed up Ari Purification

    Now we understand how asbestos particles fly in the air for certain time. At that point premises should not be visited by workers or any other people without personal protective equipment that is used specifically for asbestos and designated substances.

    Through experiments and number of tests, construction industry came up with several methods to deal with this specific problem.

    To continue on with ongoing construction process there are few recommended techniques to shorten time for how long does asbestos stay in the air.

    Methods of Purifying Air from Asbestos

    • Water Down
    • Ventilate Rooms
    • Depressurize and Clean
    • Leave it Alone

    Depending on situation, amount of asbestos present and type of demolition, certain ways can be implemented by workers. We want to again underline and point out that dealing with asbestos contaminated material is dangerous and only trained professionals should take on such jobs.

    Water Down – when demolishing a house with excavator, contaminated material should be remediated prior or left as is. It depends on designated substance survey and lab results.

    With fewer amounts of asbestos or less dangerous materials the recommendation for dealing with such issue can be to water it down.

    During demolition with excavator, dust particles get airborne and can potentially harm neighbours. Simple hose with water can help keeping it down and stay in the pile of debris.

    Ventilate – closed areas without airflow have asbestos particle fly around for long time. How long does asbestos stay in the air depends on initial contamination.

    Ventilating these rooms can make everything go faster. This method works for areas where no one lives or works. Otherwise air flow can drag designated substance towards people. The best structure for this method is far away from other homes or populated areas.

    Opening doors and windows can work just fine, and within a day the room should be good to enter. Ventilators and fans can work as well.

    Depressurize and Clean – this technique is used by asbestos remediation company all around the world. It often happens that only specific room contains materials with asbestos while others are not touch at all.

    For safety of occupants and speeding up how long asbestos stay in the air, the room is air sealed. Plastic barrier is placed one door, windows and all areas. Even ducts, lights and electrical outlets are sealed with tape.

    Later negative pressure is created in the room. This makes air stay inside room. Special vacuums and cleaning devices are used to remediate asbestos.

    Leave it Alone – the best and safest by far practice with asbestos is to let it be until all particles settle down.

    We all know how dangerous is asbestos and that 100 000 people die every year from decease caused by this substance.

    Readying this article does not make you professional and without proper training you should not get close to asbestos remediation area.

    Type of Demolition Process

    The last factor we want to bring to attention is how material with asbestos disturbed. Demolition with tools and careful removal by hand would make different level of dust behind; therefore asbestos will stay in the air for different amount of time.

    Breaking by Hand – careful removal of tiles can minimize air contamination and if done properly can leave the room safe within hours.

    Demolishing with Heavy Equipment – normally happens outside, where ventilation is natural. Excavators break large materials and dust is watered down to keep in one pile.

    Cutting with Saw – is the most dangerous type of remediation. It disburses dust and flying particles of asbestos in small rooms. It becomes hard to control and negative pressure is used to keep everything inside the room.

    House Demolition Equipment and Popular Tools Used

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    House Demolition Equipment
    Popular Tools for House Demolition

    Full demolition of the house is completed with excavator and truck that drives away debris. Bulldozers may be used to help push and move materials from one side to another in larger home demolition jobs.

    In simple words its literally one machine that takes down the house and dump truck that picks up construction material that are left. This however is not always the case. There are far more complicated home demolition projects that require more machinery and specific equipment.

    Today we are talking about tree common types of projects and house demolition equipment used in each process.

    1. Small Residential House Demolition Equipment
    2. Manual House Demolition Tools
    3. Commercial Building Demolition Equipment

    Each type of work requires different machinery and tools. Our team is not going deep into rare situations like explosions, underwater demolishing or other complicated jobs.

    Small Residential House Demolition Equipment

    Taking down a house is not a complicated process for professional excavator operator. Home owners don’t realize that entire process of demolishing a house is calculated by hours and literally within half a day, entire home is broken apart and loaded into trucks for disposal.

    A small team of two or three people can manage to get it done relatively fast. Every operator needs a helper or signaller to direct him. Third person would be in control of bobcat to push, load or dismantle smaller structures.

    Here is a list of house demolition equipment used for small residential jobs:

    • Excavator
    • Bobcat
    • Disposal Bin

    Demolition companies own most of equipment used for jobs. Disposal trucks with bins are hired / contracted as third parties.

    Home owners or contractors that want to separate work into pieces for DIY project are recommended to rent heavy equipment with licensed operator. It will save time and significantly reduce chance of things going south.

    Expenses associated with residential house demolition equipment

    ExcavatorBobcatDisposal Bins
    To Rent$500 – $1000 / day$300 – $600 / day $250 – $550 / load
    To Buy and Own$30 000 – $60 000$20 000 – $30 000 $30 000 – $40 000
    Maintenance$10 000 / year$4 000 / year $6 000 / year
    Costs vary on location and time of year

    When renting equipment, maintenance costs are not added to the picture. Keep in mind companies that own necessary machinery for demolitions require large yards or warehouses for storage.

    Manual House Demolition Tools

    Dismantling interior of the house or sometimes entire structure by hand with tools is completely different story. It is done when machines cannot be brought to jobsite due to complicated landscape, tight spaces or other complicated situations.

    Another reason for manual house demolition with hand tools is that major structure has to stay without further damage. Excavators and bulldozers would definitely cause disruptions and weaken integrity of loadbearing walls.

    Take a look at our list of tools suggested for demolition by hand:

    • Hammer / Sledgehammer
    • Pry Bar and Crow Bar
    • Sozzle saw
    • Shovel
    • Jack Hammer
    • Buckets/Buns/Bags

    Small demo jobs would be just fine to complete with this short list of tools. Additional saws, drills, knives and handy items can assists during the work, but main 6 are always there.

    Hammer / Sledgehammer – the one and only tools used everywhere by everyone. Such a simple tools that hits, pulls out nails and wrecks. You can buy it for $15 – $40 and have for very long time. Very hard to damage and break.

    Pry Bar and Crow Bar – used to lever heavier or attached items together. For example removing door/window frame or nailed down floor with crow bar is a piece of cake. Market price is between $10 and $25 and like hamper it is very hard to break.

    Sozzle Saw – great tool to cut interior walls, doors and other wood materials. It is portable and easy to carry. Just switch a blade and carry on with cutting studs or plywood. Can be bought for just $100 – $150.

    Shovel – simply scoop up debris with shovel and place into binds or bags. The easiest way to place waste material by most cost efficient tool. Get it for around $50 – $70.

    Jack Hammer – amazing for breaking concrete, bricks or stone. It hammers rapidly with force to break solid structures, but should not be used on steel. Attachments can be used for similar purposes like removing tiles. Cost of good jackhammer is $1000 – $1500

    Buckets/Bins/Bags – carry debris to trucks or construction bins in buckets or heavy duty bags. Bags are used in sensitive areas where area next to construction has to be protected from dust. $50 can get you a long way for bags and bins.

    All above listed tools can be purchased online or at any local hardware store. To save money, home owners may want to take on demolition part of work. Tools are not expensive and work does not require technical knowledge.

    In that case we recommend taking all safety precautions and using personal protective equipment during work. These house demolition tools can be bought for under $2000. Renting them does not make financial sense even if you have one job.

    Commercial Demolition Equipment

    Stepping up a notch and we can get ourselves looking over commercial demolition projects. For some it would be ordinary day and for others something extraordinary and completely out of scope.

    Commercial projects involve large equipment to perform big jobs faster and safer. We are talking about taking down hotel buildings, bridges, warehouses and other large structures.

    Besides insane amount of safety with constant supervision on jobsite, demolition equipment has to be selected for the right use. Larger buildings require long reach machines with ability to grab and load heavier pieces.

    Popular Commercial Demolition Equipment:

    • Long Reach Excavator
    • Material Loader and Handler
    • Bulldozer
    • Hydraulic Hammer
    • Wrecking Ball
    • Bin Trucks

    This is obviously just a short list of top 6 machines and equipment tools used in commercial demo, but in reality there are tenths of additional demolition excavators, cranes and tools.

    20 % of companies that operate within commercial industry own their equipment, while 80% rent everything. Although renting may seem expensive, it takes away responsibility and liability from companies.

    Maintaining, licensing, fixing and storing is very problematic for large demolition equipment. Professional technicians, supervisors and safety personnel has to be hired just to keep everything in-house.

    Before selecting commercial demolition equipment for the project, list all tasks and ask for suggestions from professionals. Operators or managers at rental companies can combine machines that will serve perfectly.

    Summarizing House Demo Equipment and Tools 

    Hundreds of tools and machines are used to demolish a house or building structure, but we can talk only about few popular items.

    Local companies should understand their own workflow before purchasing or using any specific tools.

    Fortunately demolition industry is broad widely used. Literally demolition is beginning of another construction or renovation.

    Tools and equipment are available through internet sources like amazon or brand websites. Local store can have most of above suggested tools, but in reality the selection is not even close to what you can choose from online.

    For those who end up buying tools, the storage and maintenance is very important. Place everything in moderate temperature rooms with low moisture level. It will help to prevent steel and inner parts from rusting.

    Watch out for ware out on blades. In worst case scenarios, it blade can kick back and cut you pretty badly. Always follow recommendations and instructions from manufacturer.

    6 Interior Signs of Roof Damage are not to Be Ignored

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    Signs of Roof Damage
    Interior Signs of Roof Damage

    The roof is a very important part of the house, which protects it from all environmental influences. Therefore, taking care of the condition of the roof of your house is of paramount importance. In most cases, roof damage can be seen from outside the house by just looking at it. Missing sheets of roof covering will be a clear sign of violation of its integrity.

    Nevertheless, small cracks and damage to the roof may form, which will be very difficult to notice, even during an external inspection. There are several signs by which you can tell that the roof of your house needs repair. These interior signs of roof damage can be found inside the house without having to climb on the roof.

    1. Light penetration through the roof
    2. Rotting beams
    3. Peeling paint on walls
    4. Excessive humidity in the house
    5. The appearance of mold and mildew
    6. Increase in electricity bills

    Most interior signs of roof damage indicate that the roof of the house needs serious repair. Having found them in your house, urgently check the condition of the roof. Delays in repairs can lead to serious roof problems requiring a complete roof replacement.

    Light Penetration through the Roof

    If there are through holes in the roof of your house, this is a serious problem. Rainwater can flow through them and cold air will enter the house in winter. Also, through these holes, sunlight will enter the house, by which you can understand that there is a problem.

    Of course, you will not notice this light just by being in the house. To see him, you need to go up to the attic and turn off the light. In the dark, rays of sunlight will be visible.

    It’s best to do this simple check on a sunny day. This will make it easy to see even the smallest holes. If they are found, it is worth contacting a company that repairs roofs. As long as the problem is minimal, it will be easy to fix and not cost too much to your budget.

    Rotting Beams

    If there is structural damage to the roof of your house, then during precipitation, water will enter the structure. The first thing that will be exposed to water is the beams that hold the entire roof. Since the roof is made of wood, constant contact with water is very harmful.

    The wood swells from water and loses its strength. Beams can start to rot and collapse, and they support the entire roof of your house. Deterioration of beams is very dangerous, as it can lead to the collapse of the roof.

    Having noticed the first signs of dampness in the attic, it is worth inspecting the integrity of the structure. If it has reached the stage at which collapse is possible, then the structure will have to be completely replaced. Also, do not forget that you need to take care of the root cause by fixing the roof covering.

    Peeling Paint on Walls

    During heavy rain, a large amount of water enters the house through the damaged roof. Since it needs to go somewhere, it flows down the inside of the walls and ceilings of your home.

    Because of this, the following interior signs of roof damage appear. The coating used on the walls of your home starts to crumble and flake off. If you notice that paint has started to settle from the walls in any of the rooms of your house, then the problem may be damage to the roof. You should check everything in the attic, and make sure that your roof is intact, as we described in the first paragraph.

    As with walls, characteristic damage can be found on the ceiling. If a roof leaks, streaks can form on your ceilings.

    Excessive Humidity in the House

    The examples of interior signs of roof damage described above usually occur when things are already really bad and your roof is in a deplorable state. However, some signs can help you know about a roof problem much earlier.

    One of these important signs can be a sharp increase in humidity in the house. Changes in humidity are especially easy to spot in a bedroom that does not have direct access to the bathroom.

    In many houses, air humidity sensors are installed to maintain the microclimate. If you notice that the humidity is constantly high and the humidifier is not working, then a roof leak may be the cause. We understand that this parameter is very difficult to track, and there can be a lot of reasons for an increase in humidity, however, keep in mind this possible reason.

    The Appearance of Mold and Mildew

    In humid places, microorganisms can develop. Mold and mildew are especially harmful. If you begin to notice the appearance of black spots on the walls and ceiling, this may be a sign of a roof leak.

    Due to the leakage and accumulation of water inside the walls, an optimal climate for mold is created. Mold can be of completely different shades, from white to almost black. Noticing its appearance, you should immediately find the cause of the high humidity and make repairs.

    Since the first wooden supports to support the roof are encountered in the path of rainwater, when the roof leaks, they will be covered with mold. Therefore, when you think that the reason for the appearance of mold in the house is a roof leak, be sure to check the attic.

    Increase in Electricity Bills

    For a comfortable microclimate in the house, its complete tightness is required. This is especially important in winter when the temperature outside is very low. If the roof of the house is damaged, then cold air will enter through the cracks.

    Due to the constant loss of heat, your heating system will have to work much more, which can significantly affect costs. When you notice that electricity bills are significantly higher than usual, this is one of the interior signs of roof damage.

    Since you pay your bills every month, it’s pretty easy to see the changes. To notice these changes, it is enough to compare the accounts for the last year. If there is a significant difference, then it is worth looking for the cause of the problem, and in most cases, it is damage to the roof.

    What Harm Can be if Ignore Interior Signs of Roof Damage?

    A damaged roof is a serious problem for a home. The resulting leaks after rain can seriously damage your home. In addition, they can be dangerous for the health of everyone who lives in it.

    The main hazards of a damaged roof are:

    1. Damage to the structure of the house
    2. Closing the wiring
    3. Spread of mold and mildew

    Do not forget that in most cases, the base of the house is made of wood. If the roof support beams begin to rot, they will become less reliable. In the worst case, such damage can lead to roof collapse. Such an outcome is very dangerous for the home, but moreover, it can harm the health of your family.

    The second important hazard that can arise from a roof leak is the ingress of water into the electricity in the house. Water can cause short circuits and damage all electronics in your home. In addition, a short circuit often leads to fires and fires.

    As we said, high humidity is a favorable ecosystem for the development of mold and mildew. It is also worth understanding that in addition to the fetid odor and unpleasant appearance, mold is also harmful to human health. Living in a moldy home for long periods can affect your respiratory system and fungi can harm your skin.

    Understanding all the dangers that a damaged roof can pose, the Remodel On Point team recommends that you watch out for any interior signs of roof damage. An annual roof inspection will help you avoid serious damage to your roof. This will benefit both your health and avoid costly home renovations.

    How Long does it Take to Install a Fence? – Remodel On Point

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    Install a Fence
    Time needed to Install a Fence

    For many centuries, the fence around the house served as a protective function. In the modern world, it is installed only to protect the territory of your home. In addition, a beautiful fence can make your home unique and complement the design.

    How long does it take to install a fence is influenced by many factors. Depending on the material chosen, the number of workers, and the complexity of the fence, it may take from two to seven days. This is enough time to set up a fence around a medium-sized house.

    Fence MaterialTime for Installation
    Wood2 – 3 days
    Metal3 – 5 days
    Glass Panel3 – 4 days
    Concrete5 – 7 days
    Aluminum1 – 2 days
    PVC3 – 5 days
    Vinyl3 – 5 days
    The time is indicated for the fence of a standard house when the work is done by professionals.

    It is worth noting that the time indicated in the table above will be required to install the fence by a professional company.

    The installation of a fence includes many processes, from marking the territory to the installation of doors and decorative elements. If you want to learn more about the process of installing fences, then the article “Fence installation process” will be useful to you.

    How Long does it Take to Install a Fence from Different Materials?

    In addition to all the processes, what material you use also affects the installation time of the fence. For example, a wooden fence is very easy to install and the job can be done in a couple of days. At the same time, when the fence is made of concrete or glass, it can take much longer.

    The difficulty factor in material installation is worth considering when wondering how long does it take to install a fence. Here is a quick summary of how long it will take to install a fence made of different types of material.

    Wood fence

    A wooden fence is considered the easiest to install. Since the tree is very easy to work with, it does not take much time to complete such a fence. In addition, if you are planning to install a fence yourself, then such a fence will be the perfect solution. To install it, you do not need special skills, and by spending more time you can do the work yourself.

    Metal fence

    When choosing a metal fence, the homeowner reaps many benefits due to the qualities of the material used. At the same time, if you think about the complexity of the installation, then choosing a metal fence, it is worthwhile to allocate several weeks for this process.

    It is very difficult to make a high-quality metal fence, therefore, such work should undoubtedly be entrusted to a professional team of builders. Also, remember that usually the material for metal fences is made to order and you should calculate the time for its production.

    Glass Panel Fence

    As with metal fences, the main thing that affects the duration of the installation of glass fences is the manufacture of the material. Since each project is different, it can take 2 – 3 weeks to manufacture the required dimensions of the glass fence parts. There are still standard sizes of glass fences, but they may not match in size and appearance.

    Concrete Fence

    A concrete fence can be compared to a real wall. It is a very solid structure, for the construction of which there are many stages. Since the material is very heavy, strong supports are designed to hold it. Also, when installing a concrete fence, you cannot do without the use of construction equipment. The time required to install such a fence on average takes 5-7 days, but if the complexity of the task is very high, then the work time can take up to two weeks.

    Aluminum Fence

    Aluminum fences can often be called formal fences. They are made from standard aluminum profiles of low height and strength. Such a fence does not have protective properties, but it is very easy to install.

    Aluminum fence sheets can be easily fastened together on posts. Installation is very quick and effortless and will take no more than two days. This is a great choice of fence material if you plan on installing it yourself.

    PVC Fence

    Another easy material to install is PVC. These fences are made in sections and are available in a variety of styles and colors. You can easily install such a fence by watching a couple of video tutorials. Nevertheless, the installation of such a fence will take a little longer than an aluminum one. It will take 3-5 days to surround a medium-sized plot with a PVC fence.

    Vinyl Fence

    When it comes to vinyl fences, the huge variety is worth mentioning. They can be of different heights, styles, and shapes. Although such fences are easy to install, they still require a sufficient amount of time. Depending on the selected fence, the installation can take from three to five days. You can buy such a fence at most specialty stores and install it yourself.

    What Can Increase the Installation Time of the Fence

    Fortunately for homeowners, there are not many factors that can affect the time it takes to set up a fence. In addition, in most cases, with proper planning, they can be avoided.

    If how long does it take to install a fence is important to you, then it is worth taking care of the building materials in advance. The biggest delays occur when the material is out of stock and you have to wait for it to arrive at the warehouse.

    To avoid such problems, it is worth buying it before starting construction. Most large stores can store the purchased material in their warehouses for a while, free of charge, and deliver it to you on the appointed day. By completing your purchase in advance, you will avoid this type of problem.

    There are also reasons that you cannot influence, these reasons are the weather. Since the installation of the fence is done outside the house, no one will install the fence in the pouring rain. If you are not lucky with the weather, you just have to measure yourself and wait for the precipitation to stop.

    How Speed up the Fence Installation Process?

    As with any construction process, the owner wants to quickly enjoy the result, be it a fence or an entire house. Therefore, when they ask how long does it take to install a fence, they often want to know how this process can be completed faster.

    As in any construction site, there are several ways to speed up the process:

    1. Professional installation team
    2. Increase the number of workers
    3. Detailed preparation before starting work

    We all understand perfectly well that a person who is a specialist in installing fences will do this work much faster than someone who does it for the first time. Knowledge of all aspects of the upcoming tasks will significantly speed up the work process.

    The second way to get your fence set up faster is to work as a team. If you involve several professionals in the construction of the fence, they will complete it much faster. Unfortunately, this will likely cost you an additional amount.

    There is also a way to speed up the process, which depends entirely on you. Its essence is to think over in advance all the details of the upcoming installation of the fence. You need to know exactly where the fence will be installed, how much material will be required, and what material will be used.

    Each contractor will tell you that when the client knows exactly what he wants and does not change his choice during construction, the installation process proceeds much faster. Remember that every change in the work plan can significantly slow down the installation of the fence.

    How Much Slower is DIY Fence Installation

    As you may have noticed, some of the fence materials are very difficult to install. Installation of such fences may require special construction equipment or special skills possessed by professional fence installation contractors.

    Because of this, you only need to install simple options for fences yourself. So how long does it take to install a fence on its own? To answer this question, it is worth understanding your diligence and skill in physical work.

    Self-installation of the fence will be at least twice as long as it would be done by a professional. In addition, such moments may arise that can only be performed with someone’s help. Because of this, it would be logical to have someone to help you when planning your fence installation.

    What Does Design Build Mean in Home Construction

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    Design Build
    Design Build in Home Construction

    The meaning of design build firm is nothing more or less than this specific company designs and builds project from the point of initial sketch to final construction details.

    This is inclusive service that combine full spectrum of design stage of custom home with revision, submission for permits and zoning review with entire construction of approved by client project.

    In other words these type of companies take care of everything possibly required for home construction from beginning till the end.

    Services of Design Build Company:

    • Review of Bylaw and Zoning
    • Full Design of House
    • Architectural and Engineering Details
    • Land Survey
    • Estimate or Budget Proposal
    • Construction Management

    It becomes literally worry free process and every detail is taken care of. Client does not need to control building permits, pass information from architect to builders and discuss change of costs for different materials.

    Why Design Build is More Convenient?

    There is no doubt that having one company deal with all aspects of new home construction is better than jumping from one place to another.

    Our team made list of benefits of dealing with design build company instead of traditional contractors and architects.

    • Faster Process on Design
    • Balancing Budget for Project
    • Package Deal – Saving Money
    • Clear Understanding of Work
    • Fast Structural Revisions

    Not that many firms take on full spectrum of responsibilities that we mentioned earlier. It requires several teams of qualified professionals working under the same roof and managing projects together.

    In other words it is much simpler to open just design company or become a home builder than establishing design build concierge service company.

    Faster Process on Design – Having entire team in one room means documents get processed faster. We assume team is responsible for project till it’s over. There is no downtime for emailing engineer or architect and waiting for their confirmation or comments to fix.

    Same can be said about submitting full package of documents for permits. There is a checklist of items to be submitted and design build team works on it faster that anyone would.

    Balancing Budget for Project – Most architects and designers don’t get involved in calculating costs for home building projects.

    What does design and build mean is working with two sides of construction that can propose design and contractors suggest costs for it.

    With limited budget this way of work can help downsize and select different option that matches level of expenses.

    Package Deal – Saving Money – When everything is done under one management it is possible to get a discount. It would not be significantly cheaper but still. It is an additional benefit that does not hurt at all.

    Companies prefer to get clients on the hook by giving cheaper price on design of the project and make most of the money during construction process.

    Clear Understanding of Work – We always see complications and misunderstanding between builder and architect. What did he mean to connect this post with this beam?

    To answer what does design build mean and how it helps in process you have to be in construction industry. It literally means architect, designer and builder are always present and respond to project all questions together.

    Fast Structural Revisions – Almost every custom home construction project has revision sometime midway. Unless architect drafts a solution and engineer confirms it with a stamp the work at jobsite does not progress.

    Working with design build firm this issue disappears. Engineer instantly can confirm solution over the phone and work goes on, while it is drafted on paper.

    Will More Design Build Firms Open?

    We cannot comment on how the market will progress because it is hard to predict. So far small business is more popular in all industries. Home construction is definitely the same way, even though we strongly feel design build companies make process much easier.

    Problems with Starting Design Build Company:

    • Need More Investments
    • Requirements for Licenses
    • Need to Provide Work for Everyone
    • Full Responsibility

    It seems that such companies would be everyone throughout the country. They definitely benefit construction industry and clients’ interest.

    Unfortunately for all of us it is harder to manage and control all aspects of home construction.

    Need More Investments – Larger company and more personal automatically means more investment to establish a business.

    Even though it goes hand to hand, there are still costs for hiring professionals, having larger office and advertising for all separate services.

    It is way easier to finish collage and become architect. Small businesses are more available and easier to manage for average American.

    Requirements for Licenses – Custom home construction and preparation of documents requires licensed and knowledgeable team.

    Design build structured company needs licensed architect or certified drafter, educated and experienced designer, structural engineer and licensed builder.

    When one of those people quits or goes on vacation there has to be immediate replacement.

    Need to Provide Work for Everyone – Imagine how much resources it takes to hire and keep busy all professionals we listed above.

    Some clients may be interested only in design process or architectural drawings. What do you do for other staff meanwhile?

    Additional marketing strategy needs to be implemented to keep everyone busy.

    Full Responsibility – What is means to be a design build company for new home projects is being responsible for everything there is and make client’s experience easy and enjoyable.

    Sadly for everyone there are so many details of building that can go wrong and this specific company will be fully responsible for everything.

    Blaming issues on someone else is way easier. That is why most businesses prefer to do only one specific part of work.

    Is there Market for Design Build Firms?

    If there is demand there should be supply money are just left out there. Remodel On Point already established there are more benefits for clients. The only problems are with keeping the staff and managing the team, but it has nothing to do with what clients want.

    Regulations and building code that require chain of professionals to participate in home construction and design process drive design build market up. States that don’t even have building code may not need these businesses.

    Another factor for demand of design build service is real thriving real estate with high end homes in specific area. When more people are interested in luxury high end mansions, more companies are needed for hands off service.

    How Long does it Take to Build a Deck? – Remodel on Point

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    Build a Deck
    How Long does it take to Build a Deck

    If you compare an apartment and a private house, then first of all the difference will be in the availability of a plot around the house, which you can use at your discretion. One of the most popular uses for a portion of this area is by building a deck. This is a very common extension to the house, so every homeowner wants to build one.

    So how long does it take to build a deck? The answer will be from 3-5 days to a month of work, not including the time for obtaining permits. This time difference is due to the complexity of the task, the size of the deck, the number of employees, and many other details.

    There are standard deck options that are easy and fairly quick to build, as well as multi-level decks with many additional elements. Because of this, there is a big difference in the time it takes to build the deck.

    Standard Size Deck

    A single-level deck with dimensions of 300 – 400 sq. Is considered a standard one. ft. They can be of different shapes, both rounded and rectangular. On average, the construction of such a deck takes 5 – 7 days.

    ProcessNeeded Time
    Removing the old deck4 – 6 hours
    Installation of supports5 – 6 hours
    Deck framing1 -2 days
    Vinyl installation1 day
    Railings1 day
    Time required for a simple deck 300 – 400 sq/ft.

    Removing the Old Deck

    In most cases, every house already has a deck, and when it comes to installation, it is the replacement of the deck that is meant. Therefore, to install a new deck, you first need to dismantle the old one.

    The dismantling process usually takes about half a day, provided that it is carried out by 2-3 people. During this process, the old deck is completely removed and the area is cleared for the installation of new supports.

    Installation of Supports

    The next step is the installation of supports on which the new deck will be held. A hole 3 to 4 feet deep is dug under each support, the support is installed and concrete is poured over it. This stage of the work is physically difficult and it is better to perform it with at least two people. This process can also take about half a working day.

    It should also be noted that before proceeding with the installation of the frame, it takes time for the concrete to dry. Therefore, professional decks installers finish the installation of the supports at the end of the working day, and the concrete hardens overnight.

    Deck Frame Construction

    Installing a new deck frame is one of the most time-consuming processes. Depending on the number of people performing the installation, the process usually takes 1 – 2 days. For example, if you want to install faster, then you can attract more workers and four of them can do this work in a day.

    Vinyl Installation

    This is followed by the installation of the deck. 1 day is safely allocated for this part of the work since it is also associated with physical activity and the need for accuracy. The choice of material does not greatly affect the installation speed. The difference can only be that if you did not order the material in advance, but it was not in stock. In this case, you will of course have to wait for the next delivery.

    Pressure treated wood, cedar wood, or composite material are usually used as the deck cover. Each of these materials has its distinctive properties. However, when the question of how long does it take to build a deck becomes relevant, then it is worth choosing materials before starting construction.

    Railings

    When the deck is almost ready, all that remains is to install a railing for your safety. It also takes a full day to install the railing and prepare the deck for the final look. After this process, you will already be able to fully use the resulting extension. This completes the work of the builders, and you just have to equip the deck. The installation of the grill, furniture, and other elements is very individual and depends on how you planned everything.

    How Long does it take to Build a Deck with Custom Size and Form?

    While everything is very clear with the standard deck sizes and shape, with custom decks it is much more complicated. We cannot accurately describe how long each process will take due to their individuality.

    Usually, when it comes to non-standard decks, not knowing the exact design, any builder will answer you – up to 3-4 weeks. This is the maximum time that can be spent on the construction of the most complex structures, with many levels and transitions. In addition, the deck can be very impressive in size and this is also worth considering.

    However, if you want to have a rough idea of ​​how long does it take to build a deck in your home, you can use the numbers described for standard decks. How can this be done correctly?

    Well, first of all, you need to know exactly the size and shape of your future deck. You also need to understand how many different transitions and levels there will be. After that, you just need to compare the dimensions of the standard deck with yours and calculate the time.

    Let’s look at a simple example for a better understanding. In your design, a simple one-level deck came out, but of a large size, for example, 600 – 700 sq. ft. In this case, you should not worry that its installation will take as much as 3-4 weeks. Knowing that the same smaller deck takes 5-7 days, you can expect that the whole process will take no more than 10 days for you.

    If you have a more complex project in your plans, then it is better to discuss it with those who will perform the installation. A company representative will calculate in detail all the necessary work and how long it will take to complete them.

    What Can Increase the Installation Time?

    1. Bad weather
    2. Need for inspection
    3. The uneven, rocky surface

    Even with an accurate plan for the time required to install a new deck, additional difficulties can be encountered. Some of them can be prepared and avoided, but there are those that you cannot influence.

    One of these uncontrolled processes is the weather. Since the deck is installed outdoors, it is done in good weather. If it rains heavily for several days, the work will have to be postponed.

    The second factor that will affect how long does it take to build a deck can be the legislation in your city. Most cities in the USA require an inspection of the quality of concrete poured. And since inspectors have their schedule, waiting for it may take additional time.

    The speed at which the deck is set can also be influenced by the landscape of your yard and the composition of the ground. For example, it is much easier to set up the deck on flat, soft ground than on a steep slope. In addition, the ground may be very rocky, and digging holes under the supports will be much more difficult, which will affect the time of work.

    How to Speed up Deck Construction

    1. Agree on design
    2. Order materials
    3. Hire professionals
    4. More employees

    If you want your deck to be completed as quickly as possible, then you need to think through everything in advance. First, you need to think about the design of your deck in advance. All the nuances must be agreed upon with the contractor so that they have a clear plan for the set work. Replacing the design during the construction process can significantly increase the time and cost required to complete the task at hand.

    Secondly, it is much easier to do the job when all the necessary materials are present. Order everything in advance and you will not be faced with the fact that workers will need to wait for delivery. Lack of material is a very common delay during construction.

    Undoubtedly, for the work to be done efficiently and quickly, it must be done by professionals. Deck installation workers can get the job done in half the time.

    When choosing a company that will carry out construction, give preference to those who have many clients. When a contractor has many orders, it is in his best interest to get the job done as quickly as possible. Having signed a contract for a week, it is more profitable for him to complete the work in 4-5 days and switch to a new project, thereby earning more. In this case, you will get the same deck only much faster.

    It should be understood that this work is associated with physical activity because the more people are involved in construction, the faster the process itself will be. If you are in a hurry, have four or more people build the deck. This number of workers will significantly speed up construction.

    What Needs to be Done Before Starting Construction.

    We examined in detail all aspects of the work that affect how long does it take to build a deck. However, it should be understood that planning for the construction of a deck begins much earlier. First, you need to think over the design. We can discuss this project with the architect so that he will provide you with ready-made drawings.

    You will also most likely have to obtain a building permit. Depending on the city and state, this process can take different times. Therefore, Remodel on Point recommends that you think over the construction of the deck in advance, so that before the construction stage, you have all the blueprints and permits.

    Home Building Warranty and What is Covered

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    Home Building Warranty
    What Covered Home Building Warranty

    Buying houses can be very different in terms of protection and coverage for what you pay for. Most home buyers don’t realize it, but getting completely brand new home with full warranty coverage from builder makes a huge difference.

    Can you imagine saving most of your life just to get a high percentage mortgage on a house that starts falling apart as soon as you move in.

    The only way to protect yourself during house transaction is to make sure it was finished by licensed home builder company with full home building warranty coverage.

    Now let’s list what we get new build purchase

    Home Building Warranty

    • Workmanship and Materials
    • Flooding and Waterproofing
    • Mechanical / Plumbing / Electrical
    • Building Code Violations
    • Structural of the House

    This is hell lot more than getting absolutely nothing when buying a house from someone that lived there for years. Some home owners never use the warranty and some are able to save thousands of dollars in fixes.

    What is Not Covered by Home Building Warranty?

    It is as important to know what is not being covered by the builder. All the time home owner claims are submitted for something that warranty is not intended to cover. Unfortunately most of us don’t realize these details until it’s too late.

    Home insurance is completely different from builders’ warranty. Buyers, sellers and even real estate agent mix it up all the time and think it’s the same thing. Your better understand what most home builders do not consider as their responsibility.

    Not Covered By Home Warranty

    • Natural Disasters
    • Appliances
    • Work Done by Others
    • Detached Structures

    Remodel On Point dives deeper to explain how and why certain damages won’t be fixed or pay for by original home builder even when full warranty is provided.

    Natural Disasters – There is no way contractors can control weather or fix homes after disaster.

    Appliances – Covered by brand or manufacturer. Often installed and supplied by third party.

    Work Done by Others – If additional work was performed by separately hired person/company.

    Detached Structures – Normally warranty applies only to homes and not near by structures.

    Unlike home insurance that make protect entire house with belonging from damage or theft, home building warranty only applies to items that were completed by licensed company.

    Examples of Home Warranty Structure

    Because every part of house has different lifespan it would make sense to have separate timelines for warranted items. We cannot say that all states are the same but at least our team can give a close example of what it looks like.

    One Year Warranty Coverage

    Typically after home construction materials and workmanship are included in home warranty for only 1 year. On top of that most materials used in construction have separate protection from manufacturer. It can be flooring, tiles doors, roofing and other materials.

    Two Years Warranty Coverage

    In new homes you don’t have to be worried about mechanics and violations of building code. Most companies would fix plumbing, electrical and HVAC within first two years of something is wrong with them.

    Five to Ten Years Warranty Coverage

    Depending on state and builder company new homes should have extended warranty on structural details of the house. This means that any failure or damage to structural walls, foundation or beams within that period of time is fixable by builder.

    Company Costs to Have Building Warranty

    Now we are going to look on the other side of home protection and what it takes to provide warranty. It is handled by home building or construction authority within state/area that regulates that type of work.

    Companies that are registered and licensed obey all rules and regulations that apply to buyer protection program. Annual or monthly fees are paid to building authority by all registered builders. Smaller companies pay $1500 – $3000 per year and larger firms can expect their bill to be 10 times higher.

    On top of that every house that is registered for warranty has a deposit of $10,000 – $30,000. It means that builder puts a deposit for warranty to building authority and if within two or so years there are no claims from home owner, he takes money back.

    What Happens to Builders Who Ignore Claims?

    Regardless of whether warranty claim is properly submitted or improper annoyance, it has to be take care of. Builders are not to decide who they should respond to and if repair should be made under home protection system.

    Every detail is controlled by proper authority and they penalize those who don’t follow rules. So what can happen to home builders who ignore home warranty claims?

    • Order to Fix Immediately
    • Penalty or Fine
    • License Suspension
    • Paid by Deposit

    These systems are bias and never take side of home builder or client. So let them handle what they are paid to do and fix parts of the house that are under warranty.

    Order to Fix Immediately – repeated ignorance of fixing items by builder or not responding to claims can lead to orders by association. They can threaten to shut down company membership and suspend warranties.

    Penalty or Fine – Building associations have ability to issue fines for companies that are members and don’t follow the rules. I can easily be several thousand dollars per issue.

    License Suspension – Builders that don’t want to play along and hide for month without proper response can have their state builder license suspended.

    Paid by Deposit – Original deposit by builder can be used to cover damages or faulty work that is covered by warranty if builder does not agree with verdict of authority.

    Importance of Registered Builder

    It appears that almost anyone can construct a house, live in it or sell it to someone else. For actual construction there is no mandatory law that can make everyone register with building association.

    We however think that new homes in 21st century have to be built only by registered and insured companies with full warranty coverage for the house.

    Registration is not an easy process and companies have to prove they are experienced and knowledgeable. Some authorities even check for financial statues to protect buyers from bankruptcy of builder.

    If builder company is not registered with builder association that controls standards and warranty issues, they cannot legally help with any deficiency afterwards.

    10 French Drain Mistakes to Avoid – Remodel On Point

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    French Drain Mistakes
    French Drain Mistakes to Avoid

    French drain is a creative solution to divert water away from the house and keep it protected. Unfortunately flooding still happens too often these days and very costly to fix.

    The idea is to dig a trench with weeping tile and direct water down the slope. Sadly contractors charge a lot of money for this work. It seems simple to make a french drain but mistakes can cause the opposite effect from what you are looking to do and flood the whole house.

    To avoid costly mistakes and have to redo entire project we decided to list 10 common french drain mistakes. It could help home owners properly do DIY job without spending extra money and remind contractors what to be careful with.

    Here are 10 french drain mistakes to avoid:

    1. Forgetting to Do Locates
    2. Incorrect Slope
    3. Missing Drain Fabric
    4. Not Putting Weeping Tile
    5. Whipping Tile Not Connected
    6. Wrong Material/Rock Backfilled
    7. Overloading French Darin
    8. Regulations and Bylaws
    9. Exit Point for the Water
    10. Avoiding to Deal with Roots

    Even contractors that perform similar work every day and specialize in french drain installations; we suggest creating to do list for all. Outlining common mistakes will help prevent issues in completion and warranty jobs.

    Forgetting to Do Locates

    This one is really important to complete before starting to dig. We understand that trench is never deeper than 4 feet and should not cross service lines, but staying safe is the first rule of construction projects.

    Call  811 – It’s easy to remember but also easy to forget making that call. Larger companies implement creative strategies for reminding every crew to get locates before any excavation is made. The first french drain mistake can be avoided by putting a sign on truck, morning safety talk and mandatory safety training for workers.

    We understand that drain companies almost never get large enough to have separate budget for health and safety department. For the sake of protecting all workers and company from fines for damaging service lines (gas, water, electrical wires) make it mandatory to check every morning.

    Avoid Fines – Companies responsible for damaging city lines are fined from few hundred up to several thousand dollars.

    Health Hazards – The most dangerous service line to accidentally break is electrical. Many people get major electrocutions and die every year from hitting underground power line.

    Incorrect Slope is Among French Drain Mistakes

    Once again let’s start from beginning. French drain purpose is to direct water away from house without implementation of any motor or pump.

    Therefore water has to be absorbed and trench mechanisms go down the hill. Another way of saying it is: create continuous and positive slope of 2 – 4 percent.

    Simply digging out a trench and collecting water inside can cause immediate flooding and long term structural problems for the house. If water does not go away it certainly affects foundation wall.

    Engineers and licensed suggest minimum 1 percent for French drain slope but our recommendation is slightly above that. This is due to sand with dirt accumulating inside pipe walls and higher slope makes it easier to push it through.

    To make it easier – install weeping tile two to four inches lower every 10 feet. Some projects have limited height and complicated elevations to work with. There we suggest going at least 1 percent slope, but increase it if possible.

    Missing Drain Fabric

    Next item on our list of mistakes for installing french drain is missing fabric that protects pipe from filling in with soil and other debris.

    Accumulation of dirt and small rocks can cause complete blockage of weeping tile and water will go backwards towards the house. This is worse than having no french drain at all. Damages  can be caused to home structure, trees, roots and landscape.

    There are two ways to make sure this tragedy does not occur and within a year of time the owner would call back for redoing french drain completely under warranty.

    Buy Weeping Tile With Fabric – this is a simple one. Never purchase weeper without fabric on it.

    Inspect Fabric Before Installation – pull it very hard from both end of pipe and inspect for damages. Fabric can have been laying in storage for months and even years. This can significantly lower sturdiness.

    Not Putting Weeping Tile

    Finished trench without weeping tile does not serve any purpose. We have been amazed several times when home owners reported to us (with images) french drain finished without weeping tile at all.

    This mistake is very hard to comment. It can be compared to car without wheels or house without roof. This insanity should not be ever performed and weeper is the main vehicle of french drain technique.

    Apparently some contractors thought that putting clear gravel was enough for water to go freely underground. The only problem with that, it mixes with soil and becomes as solid as other dirt.

    Some have experimented with putting real plastic pipe with holes in it – Still terrible idea. It does not freely absorb water and holes get plugged by gravel. In other words its useless and nothing but weeping tile will work.

    Whipping Tile Not Connected

    In large projects there could be several trenches connected together. It is too a french drain but much larger that single trench system. On downhill weeping tile can be connected to another row that collects water from retaining wall or stone stairs.

    French drain mistake that is simple to make but hard to fix is not connecting or properly securing weeping tile pipes together.

    This can lead to overflow at point of connection. Break in connection can lead to blockage in one weeper and complete leakage from other, without getting to final destination where water is exited.

    Such a large accumulation of water can cause underground streams that wash out large portions of soil. Further collapse of walls and parts of landscape are possible.

    To make sure this does not happen, proper connectors are used. They simply click in together with weeping tile and stay connected. Fabric from pipe has to be pulled over connector to cover wholes.

    Wrong Material/Rock Backfilled

    Empty trench can have all types of soil and the idea is not to mix it with our gravel. At first, contractors need to put down material that is popular in landscape industry.

    It is used for purpose of bottom layer of soil not mixing with clear gravel. Another reason for fabric is to make sure small plants do not grow into our french drain system and have roots everywhere.

    Proper installation of french drain includes putting gravel at the bottom of trench and on top of it before backfilled with soil. We have repeated this already many times but here it goes again – clear gravel stops soil on top and lets unwanted water go through towards the exit point.

    Suggested Material – 1 ½ inch clear gravel stone

    On top of everything top soil is preferred for natural growth of grass. Sometimes french drain does not go too deep and we seep gravel stone on surface. Do NOT compact soil on top of trench – just let it be.

    Overloading French Darin

    Don’t get carried away thinking that simple trench with weeper and gravel can take care of all the water in the world. Simple french drain system is meant to collect rain water from small hills and slopes towards the house with purpose of directing it elsewhere.

    Another mistake on our list is overloading the system with other water discharges. Most common water sources that we see are connected to french drain are:

    • Sump Pump Discharge
    • Downspouts from Roof
    • Sloped Driveways and Landscapes
    • Any other drain system

    Remodel On Point suggests separating each system and spreading the water across the land. In worst case scenario the trench will not handle amount of water and it stream backwards.

    Regulations and Bylaws

    If you are not convinced that french drain has to be installed for necessary protection of your or adjacent properties, local authorities can definitely help with that decision.

    Bylaw officer or city inspector can obligate home owner to comply with order. It is a written order to comply with local laws and regulations within specific time. When home owners or builders ignore such order, they can write tickets for several hundred dollars.

    Multiple offences can end up in court or job shot down for builders. Here is when french drain mistake can lead to municipal order:

    Flooding Neighbor – Neighbor can complain to city for improper grading. All the water from your property has to be controlled.

    On Initial Drawing – Original grading plan for new home construction can indicate french drain location.

    Endangering City Property – When old water discharge systems fail and due to heavy rains you flood city side.

    Exit Point for the Water

    All the water has to end up somewhere without causing additional problems. As it goes through french drain and natural terrain the exit point has to be sufficient for safe discharge.

    It means that accumulation of water from all drain pipes and natural sloped landscape has to end up in place where it does not cause overflow with potential damages to structures or roads.

    Most common exit points for french drains are:

    Pump Pit – Excavated massive pit that filled with crushed stone

    Catch Basin – City installed storm drain that can store/redirect water

    Unoccupied Ravine – Natural land where wildlife won’t be bothered

    Surveyors or geo engineers can help design proper exit point for planned size of french drain. Always get opinion of professionals to make sure you won’t have to redo it again.

    Avoiding to Deal with Roots

    Number one cause of drain failures, blockages and collapses is roots from nearby plants or trees. French drains have the same problem and avoiding it is a big mistake.

    Whatever is done in landscape business, we always try to make sure roots don’t ruin the work. French drains have water that runs through and attracts all types of plants that expand their roots.

    To fix this issue it is recommended to put proper linen material at the bottom of the trench, add several inches of grave and inspect weeping tile for cover material that protects it from blockage.

    What to Know before Buying a House with 20 Year Old Roof

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    20 Year Old Roof
    House with 20 Year Old Roof

    When you buy a house, you try to find out absolutely everything about it. Having chosen the area, you look closely at the house, its size, and rooms. Sometimes, having chosen a house that suits you, you are faced with the fact that its roof was installed a very long time ago.

    Reasons for buying a house with 20 year old roof:

    1. Reduced house price due to the old roof
    2. The roof is in excellent condition
    3. The average service life of the roof material is 50 years or more
    4. Possibility to choose a covering for a new roof

    Should you immediately give up the idea of buying a house with 20 year old roof? The correct answer depends on the condition of the roof, on the coating material, and how this affects the value of the house. If the roof doesn’t last 10 years and there is no purchase discount, then this is a bad idea.

    How long the roof will last is greatly influenced by the coating material used. Knowing the information about when the roof was installed and what is the average life of this coating, you will have a partial idea of how long the roof will last.

    Coating MaterialLifespanCost of New Roof
    Asphalt Roof20 – 25 years$10000 – $12000
    Metal Roof20 – 25 years$18000 – $20000
    Ceramic Tile roof20 – 25 years$13000 – $15000
    Сlay tile roof20 – 25 years$14000 – $16000
    The table uses averaged data for the country. More detailed information should be checked with local construction companies.

    Roof Inspection

    The roof is a very important part of the house. It protects the house from any impact, be it weather precipitation, solar ultraviolet light, or air temperature. If the roof is in poor condition, it can leak, which will cause dampness in the house and damage to other elements in the house. Also, if the roof is not complete, there will be a problem with the temperature in the house, for example, in winter, you will have to heat the house much more.

    No matter how durable the coating material is, the quality of the roof also depends on the experience of those who installed it. For this reason, first of all, when deciding to buy a house with 20 year old roof, it is necessary to inspect it thoroughly.

    An inspection can reveal all problematic areas of the roof that are not visible at first glance. In addition, you will have an understanding of whether the roof needs repair now and how long it will last. You will also have an idea of ​​how much the annual maintenance of this particular roof will cost you.

    Since this is very individual, never neglect a roof inspection before buying a home. Even a roof installed 5-10 years ago can have problems, and a high-quality inspection will reveal them. This will allow you to avoid rash purchases and additional waste.

    The Old Roof May be in Excellent Condition

    When the roof of the house is new, it undoubtedly speaks of its quality. Nevertheless, it is very rare on the real estate market to find houses built a long time ago but with a new roof. Do not be upset, because the age of the roof does not always indicate its quality.

    Several factors affect the quality of the roof:

    1. Used coating material
    2. Installation quality
    3. Proper roof maintenance

    These factors are essential in how long the roof of the house will last. There are cases when the roof was installed 20 or more years ago, in much better condition than the roof installed just 5 years ago. For understanding, let’s analyze this situation with examples.

    In the first case, the roof was installed 5 years ago, but it was not looked after. It is overgrown with moss and part of the cover is missing (torn tiles or sheets of asphalt roof). In this case, the inside of the roof will deteriorate because moisture and bacteria penetrate it. Most likely in another 5 years, it will completely become unusable and a complete replacement of the roof will be necessary.

    In the second case, the roof was installed 20 years ago. The stop was carried out by a professional company at a suitable time of the year. All work was done according to standards and without haste. During the entire period of operation, the roof was inspected, cleaned and minor repairs were carried out, the roof is intact and without damage. This roof option, with continued proper care, can last for at least another 10 – 15 years, or even more, depending on the material.

    The Service Life of the Coating Materials

    At the beginning of the article, we have already visually examined the average performance of roof coatings and the approximate operating time. All other things being equal, the choice of material for the roof matters.

    For example, for a metal roof, 20 years can be only half of the warranty period, and for an asphalt roof, this is the average period of operation. If you have a poor understanding of roof coverings, find a professional contractor or ask questions to the roof inspector.

    The professional opinion they can provide essential information that you can use later in choosing to buy a home.

    An Old Roof Helps Save Money on Buying a Home

    If you’re on a budget, buying a house with 20 year old roof can be a great way to keep your price down. Very often, the owners of such a house reduce the price in advance due to the age of the roof. In addition, depending on the condition of the roof, you can also ask for an additional discount.

    For example, after an inspection, it turned out that the roof is in poor condition and requires major repairs or complete replacement. In this case, you can negotiate with the landlord to reduce the price of the house by an amount comparable to the estimated cost. In most cases, the owner of the house will agree to this and thus you will be in the black. After replacing the roof, the cost of the house will immediately increase.

    In addition, you will have the opportunity to choose the roof covering that suits you. This is a very positive factor because, over the past decades, many good options have appeared, for example, many varieties of metal roofs.

    Wrong Buying a House with 20 Year Old Roof

    No matter how many positive aspects, in which buying a house with 20 year old roof would be a good idea, there are also cases when it is not worth doing it.

    Reasons not to buy a home with a 20 year old roof:

    1. New roof gives more confidence
    2. You don’t want to do repairs
    3. The high price of a house with an old roof

    In most cases, the reason people don’t want to buy these houses is that they don’t want to do renovations right after they buy them. Many would like to immediately drop into a beautiful house and just enjoy life. In a house with a new roof, you will not worry about its condition for at least 5 years, and many homeowners like this prospect.

    It also sometimes happens that it is very difficult to agree on the price for the house with the previous owner. Even the provided roof inspection reports do not help to reduce the price in case of its poor condition. This happens very often because people estimate the value of their home poorly and want to get more money for it.

    In this case, it is not recommended to buy such houses, because all subsequent responsibility will be on you. If it becomes necessary to repair or replace the roof, then it will fall on you, in terms of responsibility and cost. Why burden yourself with additional problems when you can find a much better option.

    Professional Opinion

    There are many opinions about whether to buy a house with an old roof. If you are interested in this purchase, then first of all you must understand why you are doing this. Determine for yourself the exact criteria that the house must meet and how much you will benefit from buying a house with 20 year old roof.

    The second important piece of advice will be – “Do not rush to buy!” Thoroughly review the real estate market and evaluate each of the options provided. Also, listen to the opinion of your realtor. Because of his experience, he will be able to give you good advice on whether to buy the chosen house and what possible disadvantages it has.

    What Does Asbestos Smell Like? – Remodel On Point

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    Asbestos Smell
    What Does Asbestos Smell Like

    Demolition and remediation workers may sometimes say they know what asbestos smells like and it is distinct from other materials. In fact this is not true and scientific understanding of what is asbestos can help up answer this question.

    Asbestos does not have any smell and any association of smell with asbestos contaminated material is wrong statement. You have to be foolish to think asbestos micro fibers that are added to substance for insulation and strengthening can change smell of that material.

    You may never know that your house has materials with asbestos fibers or how dangerous they are when airborne. Without disturbance and demolition of these materials you have nothing to worry about, but it’s better to stay informed of potential hazards.

    Here is a list of average home materials that may have asbestos:

    • Drywall Popcorn
    • Soundproof or Pipe Insulation
    • Wall and Ceiling Plaster
    • Vinyl Tiles
    • Cement Roofing and Siding

    These specific materials may or may not contain asbestos particles. The smell will be the same regardless of verdict. The only way to tell for sure is to call professional remediation company and perform lab testing before removal of those materials.

    People Claim to Smell Asbestos at Remediation or Disposal Process

    Even remediation workers themselves understand that asbestos smell is a complete myth but still claim to have some association with scents that are present during demolition.

    Reasons why people may think asbestos has smell:

    Specific Material or Chemical Smell – Although we have already established that asbestos does not have smell, it is possible workers can be exposed to materials or chemicals at job site and believe it has to do with asbestos.

    For example working around the same city for demolition and remediation company will create similar types of projects all the time. Same age rotten lumber, treatment chemicals, insulation materials and simply poorly ventilated rooms with old smell may be mistaken for asbestos.

    It’s easy to get into situation where everything around work is repeated. Similar job types every day with same smell and knowledge of present asbestos. All these factors link up together in person’s mind to assume asbestos has unique distinct smell, which is not true.

    Imagination and Belief Asbestos has Smell – No matter how many scientific facts we provide, if person strongly believes asbestos has smell, his opinion will not change. It can be compared to any other imaginary or self-invoked belief. Let’s not compare it to anything the reason of not provoking our readers.

    Imaginary smell can originate from two points in our life. The first one is personal experience and as we stated before work related smells that are mistaken for asbestos contamination.

    Second way of assuming incorrect fact about asbestos having scent is from any other source. It may be fellow workers or informational resource such as press release. Back in the days many things were believed to be true.

    Association Triggers Scent – besides strong believe asbestos remediation related work can have association that react on brain triggering reflects. One of them could be smell. Let’s break down this point so you understand what we mean.

    Imagine group of workers is specialized in asbestos remediation or demolition of old plaster or contaminated insulation. From years of experience they can almost predict existence of designated substance.

    Seeing what is believed to be asbestos contaminated material can trigger false smell. Like seeing an apple in front of you and brain gives you memory of its smell. This effect can borrow work related scents from past.

    Never Try to Smell Asbestos During Demolition

    The worst possible way to test materials for asbestos is trying to smell them. Asbestos fibers are most dangerous when entered humans’ body through nose or moth into lungs. Inhaling dust with asbestos does not trigger any scent reflexes and can cause variety of life threatening diseases.

    List of diseases can be caused by smelling and inhaling asbestos:

    • Asbestosis
    • Lung Cancer
    • Pleural Infusion
    • Mesothelioma
    • Scarred Lungs

    Always treat materials with caution assuming the worst. Almost 100 000 people die every year due to asbestos related diseases. It does not happen instantly. Many cases are discovered 10,20 or even 30 years after exposure to parts of asbestos. Fibres accumulate in lungs and never leave, constantly damaging lungs from inside.

    Instead of Smelling Asbestos Send it to Lab

    Uneducated people in demolition industry always make crucial mistakes that causes work related diseases and even death. Without certainty of weather materials are dangerous or not it always makes sense to prioritize safety and perform lab test for designated substance.

    Instead of following logical and only safe suggestion people around the country continue use unethical asbestos testing that does not lead to anything but harm.

    List of wrong testing applications for presence of asbestos:

    Trying to smell or taste materials – asbestos fibers added to construction materials for strength do not have smell. Anything that you may feel when in contact with asbestos materials only relates to surroundings and materials next to contamination.

    Breaking up material to see fibers – for centuries construction industry experimented with adding different fibers, horse hair and similar materials to tighten compounds. You will not be able to distinct asbestos from other materials and can only open up potential for inhaling dangerous substance.

    Relying on opinion of others – do not believe anyone whether area is dangerous or safe to work at in relations to dangerous substances. It is your health and life at stake when working out there.

    Comparing materials by looks or location – Just because main floor plaster does not have asbestos particles in it, doesn’t mean second floor is exactly the same. Actually some bylaws require extended testing for designated substances with increase of square footage per house.

    Remodel On Point strongly suggest relying only on reputable lab testing and never ever to smell asbestos at work. Contact local firms and abatement professionals for assistance even if local bylaw does not require any testing. We have list of experienced companies in every state, so reach out to our team to get contact information.

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