Septic Tank Maintenance
Septic tank maintenance is a must. Without proper maintenance, septic tanks can fail. Follow these do's and don'ts to keep the septic system and leach field working for years.
Author Archives: Tim Carter
Attic Fan Installation
An attic fan can help lower excessive attic temperatures. Solar attic fans are available, but have limitations. Electric powered attic fans are available with thermostats to help conserve energy. Wind-powered turbine vents are another option, but require Mother Nature to supply the power.
June 13, 2017 AsktheBuilder Newsletter
I'm in the early stages of a huge project I've been putting off. Decluttering all the storage areas in my house is my new summer project. Besides getting things in order, a secondary positive benefit is that I get to meet interesting people. Just this past Sunday morning, I was out on my driveway talking […]
Paying Contractors Up Front
"When you pay a contractor money in advance, you hope the contractor is going to show up, do the work right, and not make off with your money." Paying Contractor Up Front Checklist Moderate or excessive deposits put you at a huge disadvantage Deposits are only required if job has special-order or custom non-returnable materials […]
Deck Sealer Test Results
Synthetic deck sealers and synthetic technology prevent wood decks from rotting and growing algae and mildew stains. Clean and seal decks immediately after installation to prevent problems.
June 6, 2017 AsktheBuilder Newsletter
It's June 6th. Two years ago on this day, I was laboring up on my roof in 90+ F heat. The summer of 2015 would turn out to be a wretched HOT season. I just got back up from letting Lady the dog inside. It's COLD outside and raining! 49 F Are you kidding me? […]
Pay Contractor In Advance
Paying a Contractor in Advance Yesterday I received an email from Marie who lives in Massachusetts. She asked the following question: "I have been getting quotes to clean and stain my decks. In the quotes, they have all been saying that they want money up front (1/3 or 1/2). I don't like this idea. Is […]
Concrete Finish Options
Concrete Finish Options TIPS Communicate clearly what you want in the first place to avoid nightmare Stamped concrete is dramatic - can be slippery around pools Stenciled concrete is unbelievable. Not as hard to do as stamped Too much curing compound can cause splotchy white haze CLICK HERE to Get Tim's FREE & FUNNY Newsletter! […]
June 4, 2017 AsktheBuilder Newsletter
Good morning! It's an unusual late spring here in central New Hampshire. I'll be wearing a jacket to church this morning! Monday and Tuesday are forecast to be 55 F and rainy! Come on Mother Nature!!! Give us a break. It's time for 75 F and sun! Photo Gallery Eye Candy I need you to […]
Brick Wall Leakage Repair
Brick Wall Leakage Repair TIPS Water can't pool against brick walls Create positive drainage using a thin concrete overlay Use cement paint for permanent repair - WATCH VIDEOS below Silane-siloxane sealers can prevent water from entering brick CLICK HERE to Get Tim's FREE & FUNNY Newsletter! DEAR TIM: There's an area in our garage that's […]