HOME DISASTER PREVENTION AND SAFETY TIPS

Home Disaster Prevention and Safety Tips…
Protect yourself and your family from common home hazards reducing the risks inside and around your home.
Understanding and Preventing Potential Problems will make a great difference and is the key to preventing most home accidents and disasters. However, there is more that you can do to prevent something dangerous from happening in your house.

Hello again everyone, Chris Town here, owner of town construction and development in Seattle.

As a Seattle area home builder, I am asked many questions through the years about home protection and home safety.
Before I start though I strongly suggest that the very first thing any homeowner, renter, or car owner must do is get a fire extinguisher and learn how to use it. I know you have thought about it and then said to yourself “well maybe later, things will be fine for now I’m sure, and aren’t they so expensive? PLEASE JUST GET A FIRE EXTINGUISHER! Your family, pets, friends, and belongings will thank you.

One of my favorite home safety tips is Anti-Slip Tape (Rug Grippers) for Small to medium size throw Rugs.
I can’t tell you how many times I have stepped on any of my throw rugs and they slipped from under me.
Anti-Slip Tape for Small Rugs offers non-slip strength that keeps your rugs and mats from bunching up or sliding across the floor on tile, marble, laminate, wood, carpet, and other flooring surfaces. It releases quickly when lifted up allowing you to easily reposition your rugs.

Turn off the water supply before going on vacation or away for more than two days…Turn off the water at the main shut off!
Water damage from undetected plumbing leaks will quickly ruin ceilings, floors, and walls, leading to repair bills in the thousands. This is especially true if you’re away on vacation. Yes, such a leak is unlikely, but insurance companies report hundreds of these incidents every year. Put splash pans under washers and water heaters to catch leaks! For about $20, you can buy special pans at home centers and appliance dealers that catch slow leaks and mild overflows.

Install grab bars by the toilet and tub.
These grab bars small and larger sizes are not just for older people. What is your first thought when finishing soaking in your tub and getting ready to lift yourself out of the tub? I hope I don’t slip and fall! For a few bucks, it’s worth having the extra piece of mine and saving you and family members from serious falls. The hard surfaces of the bathroom can make falling even more dangerous. Having properly installed grab bars around the toilet and tub provide needed support and balance.

Home Fire tips
In 2018, there were more than 363,000 fires in US homes, causing everything from mild smoke damage to total devastation, including the loss of 3,655 lives.2 Even candles or an unattended iron can lead to accidental fires in your home, but there is a lot you can do to prevent a home fire from getting out of hand.

Install fire alarms
 Install fire alarms on all levels of your home, and please check and change the batteries at least annually for better fire safety. Consider investing in a smart smoke detector like Google Nest Protect† (about $119*).
This alarm uses Wi-Fi to provide real-time updates. And you can access remote monitoring right on your smartphone or another mobile device.
If you don’t want a mobile app on your smoke alarm, consider getting a non-connected model like the Kidde Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector Alarm with Voice Warning (about $35*).
(some info courtesy of safe wise)

Avoid fire hazards during the winter months!
Homeowners and renters may not realize it, but according to the U.S. Fire Administration, more home fires occur during the winter than in any other season. Heating equipment is often involved, so people should be careful with space heaters and both real and fake fireplaces. Only plug one heating device into an outlet at a time and make sure other objects are at least 3 feet away from it on all sides.
(some info courtesy of cover hound)

 Enhance Home Door Security
We all know you can spend thousands of dollars on home security for sure, but sometimes with just a VERY SMALL bit of cash can make a big difference.
Statistics show that nearly 66% of rentals and 34% of home burglars entering through the front door and 22% of home burglars using the back door. Therefore, to secure the front door (back door) is one of the most important parts of home safety. Just take a few hours out of your week to research the different door security items available for your specific situation. A few hours of your time can save you months of misery and paranoia.

Just a few more suggestions!
–Install photosensitive porch or entryway lighting that will come on at dusk and turn off at dawn. A light-switch timer can also be installed on interior switches for exterior porch or post lights.
–Put night-lights in the bathroom and in hallways leading from the bedroom to the bathroom and kitchen.
–Install better fire/smoke alarms on all levels of your home, and check and change the batteries at least annually for better fire safety. Consider investing in a SMART smoke detector.

All solutions for home living have some advantages and disadvantages…
“There are no perfect solutions out there, only the ones that are perfect for you.”

Chris Town

QUICK HOME REPAIR, REMEDIES AND MAINTENANCE TIPS FOR HOME OWNERS

 

Quick Home Repair, Remedies, and Maintenance Tips For Home Owners
Some of the easiest home repairs are simple tricks that can solve a problem in a matter of a few minutes.
Keeping your home properly maintained will not only save you money by increasing the longevity of your appliances and existing structures, but it will also help you become more energy-efficient and save money on your utility bills.
(Some info courtesy of “the delite and money crashers”)

Hi Everybody, I’m Chris Town owner of Town Construction and Development here again with some cool home ideas and solutions for you. Some ideas you probably know about already and some you may not be aware of. But if you can save some time, save a buck or two like me, and avoid using harmful chemicals, is it worth it, yes?

Ant and Fly Killer:
One of my own inventions I have been using that is environmentally friendly, cost virtually nothing, and safe around young kids and pets. Use white vinegar, dish soap, 20 drops of lemongrass essential oil, and a clean spray bottle.
1: One cup white vinegar
2: 1/2 cup dish soap
3: 20 drops of lemongrass essential oil (Special good for disabling flies)

Use Common Household Ingredients To Unclog A Drain:
1: A slow-draining sink, bathtub, or shower is frustrating. Not only do you have to wait for the water to drain, but you’re left with a residue to clean up. Who wants that?
If you don’t want to use harsh chemicals to unclog your drain — or don’t have any on hand — you can follow the following DIY remedy: First, boil water and pour it down the drain. Then, pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain (some DIYers recommend mixing in a 1/4 cup of salt) followed by 1/2 cup of white vinegar. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then flush again with hot water from the tap.
2: Take three Alka-seltzer tablets and drop them into the drain with a cup of white vinegar. Let the two components work its magic for fifteen minutes then add boiling water to the clogged drain and the drain will rid itself of clogged up hair, grease, and any other creepy things that found its way in there.


Use Cooking Spray To Fix A Squeaky Door Or Cabinet:
If you don’t have a can of WD-40 handy, no need to fret. Cooking spray will also work wonders on those squeaky doors or cabinets. Spray just a little on the hinges, and you should be squeak-free in no time.

Paint Screws With Clear Nail Polish To Prevent Them From Coming Loose:
It’s amazing what a thin coat of nail polish can do! By painting a screw with nail polish, which acts like glue, it is more likely to stay in place.

Use Crayons To Fill In Nail Holes:
Choose a crayon that closely matches the color of the wall you’re repairing. With firm pressure, rub the crayon over the nail hole.

Unscrew A Broken Lightbulb With A Potato:
Have you ever broken a light bulb while it’s still in the socket? If so, you know how frustrating it can be to remove it. But, you can use a potato to get it out without cutting your fingers.
Cut the potato in half, push the soft side into the broken bulb and turn it counterclockwise until the broken glass is embedded into the potato. Don’t forget to turn off the power and put on protective gloves before you attempt this hack!

Give Your Shower Head A White Vinegar “Bath”:
Remove mineral deposits and other grime from your shower head by simply soaking it overnight in white vinegar.

Leaky Faucets:
The main cause of leaky faucets is worn out washers. The washers inside of the faucet handles are rubber and tend to wear out quickly. Replace them by turning off the main water supply, unscrewing the leaky handle that controls the flow of water to the spout, removing the old washer, and dropping in the new one.

Refrigerator doors:
The main component of your refrigerator that should get your attention is the door seals. Keeping your door seals tight will reduce the amount of energy it takes to keep your food cool or frozen, but will also keep your refrigerator working efficiently, preventing premature wear on internal parts.
To test the door seals, close the door on a dollar bill and attempt to pull it out with the door closed. If you cannot easily pull the dollar bill out from the door, your seals are in good shape. However, if the bill slides out without much resistance, it’s time to replace the seals. You can purchase new seals from any home repair outlet store.

Drafty Windows:
Drafty windows are a major culprit of high energy bills in the summer and winter months. Periodically check the condition of the caulk line that holds your windows in place. If the caulk appears to be dry, cracked, or otherwise weathered, remove the old caulk with a box cutter or other sharp knife and run a new bead of caulk along the seam.

For added utility bill savings, you can further insulate your window by applying an insulating window film over the glass. These methods cost much less than the price of replacing your windows and implementing green energy technologies in your home. I like the idea of using “bubble wrap”, you know that stuff for wrapping objects for shipping. I use it for my basement windows and areas kinda unseen by any Guests. It helps keep the heat in your home and absorbs the sunlight as well.

All solutions for home -living have some advantages and disadvantages…
“There are no perfect solutions out there, only the ones that are perfect for you.”

Hi Everybody, I’m Chris Town owner of Town Construction and Development here again with some cool home ideas and solutions for you. Some ideas you probably know about already and some you may not be aware of. But if you can save some time, save a buck or two like me, and avoid using harmful chemicals, is it worth it, yes?

 

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR OUTDOOR DECK
FROM RAIN AND SNOW in the winter months

HOW TO PROTECTING YOUR OUTDOOR DECK FOR DURING WINTER MONTHS
Hi Everyone I'm Chris Town owner of Town Construction and Development. Ok, folks, winter is here for some people and just around the corner for most. Some areas of the country get rain others to get snow or both rain and snow. Don’t panic as it’s never too late to protect your deck. Of course protecting your outdoor deck before the cold, rainy, and snowy grips of winter is always the best solution. But we don’t always have time or are too lazy until it’s too late.

So here are some solutions and tips that can help save your outdoor deck/patio just before and during those cold winters months.

How Winter Weather Affects Wood:
If you’ve ever wondered why winter is so tough on wood, it’s the moisture and cold temperatures. Wood is a very porous material and when left unprotected, these porous areas can easily get filled with particles such as water, fungi, and bacteria. As temperatures lower, the water inside the wood contracts, then freezes and expands, and causes the wood to bend and eventually crack or break. Not only that, but fungi (mold) that thrive in damp environments like mold and mildew can spread and cause rot.

PROTECT YOUR OUTDOOR DECK/PATIO JUST BEFORE THE RAIN AND SNOW
Clean your Deck Thoroughly:
Exposure to moisture and snow can create perfect conditions for the growth of mold, mildew, moss, and algae. All these conditions make it important to clean your deck thoroughly before winters grip.

If you still have time – begin the sealing process:
Don’t seal a deck below 50 degrees. You don’t want to begin the sealing process until you can safely guarantee that the temperature will remain above 50 degrees for at least 48 hours… A 65-degree day may easily become 40-degree at night or lower, and your seal will become a deck nightmare.
if you’re looking for a clear water repellent to protect against water damage without changing the color of the wood, choose a Premium Water Sealer. It will protect your deck against the elements for two to three years. Don’t go cheap here folks, I said the best “Premium Water Sealer” money can buy. In this specific case, you do get what you you pay for.

Ran Out Of Time and Winter is Here? Don’t Panic!
Remove Snow From the Deck Surface:
Any time you notice snow any accumulation on your deck, shovel the snow off the deck. While you can cover portions of your deck in a tarp, you’ve probably left stairs, railings, and other areas uncovered. Use a broom or shovel to keep snow accumulation to a minimum on the deck. Avoid salt or other commercial products to do the job for you, as these products will discolor and damage the finish. Snow removal is one job you want to do the old-fashioned way.

“Town Tips” by Chris Town
Use a plastic shovel, which does not have harsh on the wood as a metal shovel.
Shovel parallel to the boards rather than perpendicular so that the shovel does catch and gouge the planks.

“Town Tip ” by Chris Town
One of the best ways to protect your deck from snow and Ice as I mentioned above, is a clear plastic Tarp.
Spread a Tarp Over the Deck:
No matter how well you’ve prepared your deck, your deck can still suffer underneath layers of snow and ice all winter. Keep your wood looking great by covering the deck with a tarp in the harsh winter months. This covering provides an added barrier between the wood and moisture. Too much-melting snow can cause the boards to warp, and ice will worsen cracks in your deck.
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In conclusion, don’t leave your deck to battle the elements alone. A few weekends of work and some regular attention (again use a clear thick torp) throughout the winter will protect the wood and finish so you have a beautiful outdoor space to return to when the weather warms up again.

Visit Us for more Home advice, solutions, and tips.
Town Construction and Development
https://www.townconstructionanddevelopment.com/
Chris Town

All solutions for home -living have some advantages and disadvantages…
“There are no perfect solutions out there, only the ones that are perfect for you.”
Chris Town/

HOME MILDEW AND MOLD SOLUTIONS

 

ONE OF THE BIGGEST THREATS TO HEALTH AND SAFETY FOR HOMEOWNERS AND BUSINESSES ALIKE IS MOLD/MILDEW. WITHOUT PROPER CLEANUP AND CONTAINMENT, MOLD CAN LEAD TO COMPROMISED HEALTH CONDITIONS AND RESPIRATORY ILLNESSES ALONG WITH PROPERTY DAMAGE TO YOUR HOME AND BELONGINGS.

The most common type of mold found in homes is mildew. Mildew is a mold that grows in warm, damp places like your bathroom, kitchens, and any damp areas. Mildew begins as a gray or white powdery colony. It will turn black or brown if not removed promptly.

Hello, I’m Chris Town Owner of Town Construction in the Seattle area, the Mold, and Mildew hotspot in the US! You’re here to get some insights on the best solutions for getting rid of Mildew and Mold. Being a Home Builder /Home Remodeling Expert and a Home Water Damage Restoration Specialist, I have seen my share of Mildew and Mold for sure. If you are lucky enough to afford a person to come out and fix the problem every time you spot mold good for you. But for customers like myself, I prefer saving a little money. For severe Mold/Mildew damage call a specialist.

Know Your Enemy!
Mold is a form of fungi that sprouts from microscopic spores that are everywhere in our environment. These spores are inactive, however, they will propagate once the humidity surpasses 70 percent. Temperature that is more than 65 degrees increases the chance of mold growth. Once the cluster of mold spores spread on surfaces, they begin to reproduce and become noticeable to the human eye. You may not be aware that there is mold in your home until you see it or smell a damp, musty, moldy odor. And when you notice your allergies and asthma tend to flare.
There are key ingredients needed for mold growth in homes which are the presence of mold spores, a surface for it to grow on, oxygen, warmth, and darkness. When the moisture is present in these ingredients whether from stagnant water, high level of humidity, or a water leak, the mold problems begin.
If you have mold in the basement or crawl space, its spores will rise throughout the house. This is called the “Stack Effect”. Because of the stack effect, the warm air rises in the home and exits through the upper levels and attic. When this occurs, a vacuum is created on the lower level which draws air upward from the crawl space and basement. Mold spores, dust mites, odors, and anything in the air will be drawn into the main area of the home that is where you breathe. A mold infestation can colonize within 1-14 days.
(Courtesy of Green Home Solutions)

What helps kills mold permanently?
Hydrogen Peroxide 3% – Saturate the moldy surface and leave it for 10 minutes. Next, scrub the area with just enough force to remove black mold and mold stains.
Bleach – Use at your own discretion!
White Vinegar – You can use it safely on most surfaces, and its offensive odor goes away quickly.
Baking Soda – It’s safe for your family and pets, and it not only kills black mold, it absorbs moisture that attracts mold.
Tea tree oil – Tea tree oil is a natural fungicide that cleans up mold quickly and it helps prevent mold spores from coming back.

The best approach is preventing mold before it becomes a problem.
1: Fix Problem Areas in Your Home and Correct Them
2: Dry Wet Areas Immediately (Mold can’t grow without moisture)
3: Prevent Moisture With Proper Ventilation (Let fresh air in to reduce moisture and keep mold at bay.)
4: Equip Your Home With Mold-Resistant Products (mold-resistant Sheetrock, and mold inhibitors for paints.)
5: Improve Air Flow in Your Home (open a window when cooking or washing dishes or showering, or run an exhaust fan.)

“Town Tips” by Chris Town
As a Custom Home Builder and Remodeling Expert I’m asked this question repeatedly…what can I use that’s environmentally friendly to me and my family for getting rid of Mildew/Mold?
I use Hydrogen Peroxide 3%,  White Vinegar, and Baking Soda mixed together in a plant type spray bottle.
Hydrogen Peroxide – 20%
White Vinegar – 60%
Baking Soda – 20%
For a paste-like texture, add more Baking Soda (for cleaning kitchen and bathroom tiles grout areas). After application wait 5-10 min. then clean try. Then I spray the infected area with Tea tree oil (helps prevent mold spores from coming back).

All solutions for home living have some advantages and disadvantages…
“There are no perfect solutions out there, only the ones that are perfect for you.”
Chris Town/

This magnificent waterfront home in the heart of Edmonds has gotten a complete down to studs remodel/ addition.

Opening up the existing kitchen, dining room and eating area into a new open concept floor plan. These changes, and the new wall of windows,  will give it much better flow & views. This is going to be the “forever home” for the clients so we’re adding an elevator to make it easy access to all levels. We’re creating a true spa like master bath with spectacular views. I will post more pictures as the job progresses. It is truly going to be an amazing transformation!

SEATTLE-BELLEVUE AREA HOME REMODELING AND DESIGN-BUILD CONTRACTORS
"We Have Better H0me Ideas & Solutions for Better Living"

Town Construction and Development has established a solid reputation building homes in the Puget Sound area, specializing in ” High-end ” residential new construction and remodeling.
Building Or Remodeling A Home Should Be An Exciting & Wonderful Experience. To Accomplish This, You Have To Have Good Communication Skills And The Right Team Of Professionals. Town Construction And Development Has The People And Expertise To Make Your Vision Become A Reality.
Chris Town
www.townconstructionanddevelopment.com

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