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Eastern North Carolina

Home Improvement Information

What to Do If a Compact Fluorescent Bulb Breaks
Posted on March 23, 2017

Compact fluorescent light bulbs have provided a good alternative to incandescent bulbs typically using 75% less energy. In addition, compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) last as much as six times longer than incandescent bulbs. With benefits that include saving energy and therefore money as well as not having to be replaced as often, do CFLs

What Homeowner Insurance Does Not Cover
Posted on February 28, 2017

Let’s face it. None of us takes the time to read our homeowner insurance policy. We know we should have a policy for fire and burglary, but we don’t think much about the many other types of claims we might have. Unfortunately, what you don’t know could be costly. Here are four hazards that your

Why is Standing Water and Mold in my Crawl Space?
Posted on January 25, 2017

Do you suspect you have a moisture problem in your crawl space? Is there a musty smell in your home? Did your pest control exterminator tell you mold is growing on your floor joists? Did your air conditioning technician inform you that it’s wet in your crawl space? Did you take a peek in your

Dishwasher Maintenance and User Tips
Posted on December 28, 2016

The dishwasher is one of our most convenient appliances saving labor and time. That’s why it’s important to use and maintain this important appliance correctly to keep it running smoothly. Follow these guidelines for reliable and efficient performance of your dishwasher: Run water in your kitchen sink until it turns hot. Then start the dishwasher.

Gasoline Leaf Blower Safety and Maintenance Tips
Posted on November 22, 2016

Leaf blowers can make the chore of yard maintenance much easier and less time-consuming. But there are safety concerns that need to be taken into consideration to prevent injuries. A leaf blower can move debris up to 200 mph stirring up dust that could be inhaled and making dangerous flying objects airborne. From 50 feet

Home Maintenance Tip: Clean Your Ceramic Tile Grout
Posted on October 21, 2016

Tile is an attractive and durable flooring surface. Tile is also easy to clean, but cleaning the grout is another matter. Because of the porous composition of grout, it is prone to staining. Kitchen tile grout is subject to drips and spills. Bathroom tile grout is susceptible to soap and mildew accumulation. Follow these simple

Window Maintenance Tips to Extend their Lifespan
Posted on September 29, 2016

Everyone knows that homes need maintenance but often window repair is overlooked. Rain, temperature variations, and dirt and debris can cause window wear and tear. Damage can lead to deterioration, energy loss and insect infestation. Proper maintenance will help your windows look and function their best extending their lifespan. To maintain your windows, perform these

Extension Cord Safety – A Home Maintenance Tip
Posted on August 25, 2016

Extension cords can be a convenient way to deliver power to a variety of electrical appliances and devices. However, when used without proper precautions, an extension cord can be a tripping hazard and cause harm through electrocution and fire. Each year extension cords are responsible for over 4,000 injuries and 3,300 house fires resulting in

Home Maintenance Tip: Do You Have Dirt Daubers?
Posted on July 29, 2016

Have you noticed cylindrical tubes made of mud attached to the eave or your house? If so, you may have dirt daubers, also called mud daubers. Dirt daubers are a type of non-aggressive wasp that usually do not sting unless threatened. They are black or blue metallic in color with thread-like waists. Their nests look

Home Maintenance Tip: Childproof your Home for your Grandchildren
Posted on June 21, 2016

It may seem like just yesterday since your kids were young, but now you have a grandchild on the way. Perhaps you’ve forgotten some of the tricks of child-rearing, but childproofing your home is one task that you need to tackle right away. Unintentional household injuries such as suffocation, burns, drowning, falls, choking and poisoning