Author: dave

Dryer vents

Spooky areas like this require proper clothing and equipment, often its an area where some issues are present. These spider webs are littered with dryer lint from a poor dryer vent installation. The over sized ducting had no damper and

Radiant Heating

Radiant Heating can be found in newer homes as well as some older homes. The two main types are hydronic (water) and electric. Hydronic systems usually have a boiler that can be electric, gas, or oil fired, the boiler heats

Granular Loss

Granules are the little rocks on the top of your shingle that are an integral part of your roofing system. Asphalt shingles are typically comprised of a fibreglass weave, impregnated asphalt, glueing strips and the top granule layer. The granules

Vapour Barriers

On most homes built within the last 50 years you should find vapour barriers behind walls and ceilings. Vapour barriers keep warm air for escaping a room. They can be made of plastic, Polyvinyl sheets, paper, foam and yes even

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Air Leaks and Energy Loss

I hear horror stories of heating bills monthly being $400, $500 and up. Too often it accompanies the statement “Well I’ll just put in a heat pump”, quite often this is not the answer. The truth of the matter is

Ventilation Terminating at the Soffit

This harmless photo does not show the black mold/algae growth that was growing on the underside of this home’s roof sheathing. Older building code permitted the termination of mechanical fans from the bathrooms and kitchens at areas under the eaves

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Stairways to heaven

The staircase in a home can be one of the most dangerous places. Many older homes have designs that are simply not up to today’s standards. Apart from no lighting, no handrail, no guardrail, low head room and small steps,

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Foundation Cracks

Many homes suffer from foundation cracks, usually they are minor and need only to be sealed with caulking to avoid water and insect intrusion. However, some cracks (such as this one) may indicate serious structural movement and can be expensive

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Hot Water Tanks don’t last forever

No one likes a cold shower, but dealing with a leaking hot water tank can be even less enjoyable. So how long does a hot water tank last? Well this depends on a few factors. How much hot water is

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Poor downspout termination

This downspout terminated right onto the electrical service entrance, not an ideal situation. Downspouts need to evacuate water 6-10 feet from the foundation.

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