Conserve energy while keeping Green

Because the average household generates 50-70% of its energy bill through heating and cooling, properly insulating your home is one of the easiest ways to cut back on energy usage and lower your bills year round. Most conventional insulators, such as fiberglass and mineral wool contain carcinogenic resins and can be challenging to install. Green entrepreneurism has generated a number of affordable alternative insulators that are made of eco-friendly materials, which are healthier for your family and the environment. Here are some alternative to fiberglass and mineral wool to consider for your insulation project:

• Natural Fibers, particularly those made from recycled denim, have been growing in popularity with sustainable builders. This type of insulation is manufactured with 85 % recycled cotton material, contains no chemical irritants and requires no warning labels. If you insulate with natural fibers you are also ensuring that those faded 501’s, which were headed toward the landfill, can now be recycled into the walls of your home.

• Cellulose is another popular option. Made from100% recycled newspapers and cardboard, this alternative requires substantially less energy to manufacture and install than traditional insulation. Cellulose is available as a loose fill or spray-on material so it fills every crevice, preventing energy loss through drafts and condensation caused by air infiltration. Cellulose costs the same as fiberglass, but is much more environmentally friendly and is just as readily available.
  

• Paint-on insulation is one of the most flexible of all the emerging materials. This product, named Nansulate, utilizes nanotechnology. Microscopic particles fused with acrylic resin create a nontoxic, environmentally-friendly product that is both water and mold resistant. Though more costly than other options, paint-on insulation can be applied to ceilings, walls, and flooring, making it the most versatile of all the insulators.

• Greensulate is the newest insulating material created from oyster mushrooms. It is by far the cheapest and greenest of all the options, with a forecast manufacturing cost of $1 per square foot. Greensulate is 100% natural, biodegradable, and fire retardant, so it does not require additional chemicals and will biodegrade when it is no longer in use. This technology is winning global attention with its unique ability to decrease carbon emissions on a globally significant scale.

Seattle Sun

Well to break from my normal home inspection lingo. I thought I would post a few pictures from our wonderfully great Seattle weekend...... this spring these days seem so far between that any excuse to get out and enjoy it is a good one.











Look at what a little water can to to once great stairs....... I guess surf, saltwater, and living animals have to help.

CONTROLLING ALLERGENS IN THE HOME

For many people, household allergens can cause a variety of symptoms, including sneezing, watery eyes, coughing, and shortness of breath, and may be a contributing cause of asthma, especially in children. However, it is possible to minimize the effects of such allergens by taking steps to control their presence and dispersal in the home. The most common household allergens include dust mites, mold, mildew, pollen, and pet dander (dried flakes of skin shed by pets, particularly cats and dogs). Effective control relies on a combination of measures that, when used properly, will reduce the levels of allergens Increase ventilation to the home. Opening windows whenever possible promotes good air exchange and will reduce the concentration of airborne allergens, especially pet dander. Wash bedding and stuffed toys once a week in hot water to control dust mites and cat allergens in particular. Keep pets clean and well groomed to control dander. Use mite-resistant mattress covers and pillow covers and wash these frequently. Dust and vacuum regularly and use micro-filtration or HEPA filter vacuum bags. Wearing a dust mask while dusting and vacuuming is also a good idea. Consider removing wall-to-wall carpeting and use easily-cleaned area rugs instead, particularly in bedrooms. Make sure bathrooms, especially those with showers, are well ventilated. Open the window and use exhaust fans that vent to the outdoors to prevent a buildup of moisture, which can encourage growth of mold and mildew. If possible, reduce indoor humidity to 50% or less by using room dehumidifiers or the dehumidifier feature available with many central air conditioning systems. Clean or replace furnace and central air conditioner filters on a regular basis. Make sure that air conditioner drain pans are clean and allow the water to drain properly.

Brendan Marchant 425-392-8163 Brendan.Marchant@pillartopost.com www.pillartopost.com/sekingcounty

DON’T THROW MONEY OUT THE WINDOW

With heating and cooling costs continuing to rise, it makes sense to look at one of the leading causes of energy inefficiency in the home: windows. Installing energy-efficient windows can mean increased comfort as well as savings on utility bills in any climate.

The transmission of air and light is generally the most important function of windows. However, this can mean heat loss in the winter, overheating in the summer, and higher energy bills. A typical home may lose up to 30% of its heat or cooling through windows. Properly installed, energy-efficient windows can go a long way toward improving this situation.

There are many factors that affect a window’s energy efficiency. Whether they are single- or double-paned, gas filled, Low-Emittance (Low-E) coated, and even the material of the window frame all contribute to a window’s performance. Online resources such as www.efficientwindows.org provide detailed information on these specifications and how to select windows appropriate for various climates. An experienced window contractor can also be a good source of information and recommendations.

Homeowners should check with their local utility to find out about possible rebates and other incentives for the purchase of new, energy-efficient windows.

Of course, replacing windows is not always a viable option. There are steps homeowners can take to improve their energy savings without replacing windows. Making sure windows are properly caulked, keeping weather stripping in good repair, and using storm windows will help. Window coverings are another good way to reduce heat loss in winter and avoid overheating in summer.

Improving energy efficiency throughout the home means cost savings to the homeowner. Energy-efficient windows are a significant step toward that goal.

Pillar To Post South East King County Washington serves, Issaquah, Renton, Maple Valley, Covington, Enumclaw, Bellevue, Black Diamond, Factoria, New Castle, and surrounding areas.

Visit us at www.pillartopost.com/sekingcounty

House-Friendly Yard

THE HOUSE-FRIENDLY YARD AND GARDEN

During the spring and summer months, many homeowners get their garden and yard work into full swing. This month, Pillar To Post takes a look at several steps that homeowners can take to make their outdoor spaces and their home live compatibly.

KEEP WATER AWAY FROM THE HOUSE

Be sure that the ground slopes away from the house all the way around the perimeter. This ensures that any moisture from rain, snowmelt, and sprinkler systems will be directed away from the foundation. The base of shrubs and other plantings should be kept at least 2’ away from the foundation to avoid potential problems with roots and drainage. In addition, window wells should be kept free of debris and lined with gravel to help water drain out of the well and into the ground. Do not leave sprinklers on for too long. Excessive water will not do plants and lawns any good, and may cause problems if there are drainage issues in certain areas.

THE RIGHT PLANT IN THE RIGHT PLACE

When a tree is growing very close to the structure, there can be potentially serious problems if the tree grows too tall or too wide for the space. Damage to eaves and roofs can be caused by overgrowth, and there is even a danger of branches or an entire tree falling onto the home. Existing trees should be professionally pruned to lessen the potential for hazard. When planting new trees, homeowners should research potential “candidates” to find how large the tree will eventually grow and what the root pattern spread will be, then make decisions accordingly. Homeowners should also consider grouping plants that have similar water requirements to avoid over-watering plants that don’t need as much. Not only will plants do better, but water bills will be lower over time as well.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT PLANTS FOR MAINTENANCE EASE

Some plants end up requiring more maintenance than a homeowner expects. When selecting new planting material, homeowners should seek advice from qualified personnel at a local nursery who will know what plants will do well in their area, as well as their growth habits and maintenance requirements. Lawns should not be mowed too short or too frequently. Allowing the blades of grass to shade one another helps with water retention and allows grass to grow in more fully. Many newer turf grasses require less mowing than older varieties, and should be considered for new lawn installations. Homeowners can find out more at their local agricultural or extension office. These are just some of the ways homeowners can increase the enjoyment of their outdoor spaces while ensuring that home and yard are in good shape. Pillar To Post South East King County Serves, Issaquah, Renton, Maple Valley, Enumclaw, Covington,Factoria,New Castle, Bellevue,and surrounding areas Visit Us at www.pillartopost.com/sekingcounty

Sick House Syndrome

WHAT CAUSES SICK HOUSE SYNDROME?

Sick House Syndrome occurs when a house can’t “breathe” to rid itself of indoor pollutants, resulting in poor indoor air quality – a “sick house.” Inadequate ventilation allows pollutants to build up, causing potential health risks to the home’s occupants. Young children, the elderly, and some chronically ill persons are most susceptible to the effects of Sick House Syndrome. Common sources of indoor pollution include tobacco smoke, certain carpeting materials, furnaces, fireplaces, candles, pressed wood cabinets and furniture, and household cleaning products. Moisture build-up, although not a pollutant itself, can also be harmful in a house as it can cause mold growth inside walls, crawlspaces, and other areas.

HOW CAN INDOOR POLLUTION BE REDUCED?

Source control is usually the most effective way to improve indoor air quality. In some cases, eliminating the specific sources of indoor pollution – for example, removing carpets, and repairing or maintaining furnaces – may be all that is necessary. For offending substances such as tobacco smoke, cleaning products, and moisture buildup, improving ventilation is a key means of decreasing indoor pollution. Many newer homes are so well insulated and sealed that only a very limited amount of fresh air can get in. Effective ventilation requires the home to have a complete air change every three hours. In this situation, using attic or window fans and opening windows when weather permits are easy and inexpensive ways to increase ventilation. More hazardous materials such as asbestos and lead do not normally cause problems if they are undisturbed, but these and other dangerous substances should be analyzed by a qualified professional to determine if encapsulation, abatement, or removal is warranted. Pillar To Post South East King County Serves, Issaquah, Renton, Maple Valley, Covington,Bellevue,New Castle, Factoria, Enumclaw, and surrounding areas Visit Us at www.Pillartopost.com/sekingcounty

Carbon Monoxide

CARBON MONOXIDE: AVOIDANCE AND PREVENTION

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas produced by the combustion of fuels such as natural gas, oil, and propane in devices such as furnaces, water heaters, and stoves. These items are normally designed to vent the CO to the outside, but harmful interior levels of CO can result from incomplete combustion of fuel, improper installation, or blockages, leaks or cracks in the venting systems.

Homeowners can take action against potential carbon monoxide poisoning by taking the following steps:

• Have all fuel-burning appliances professionally inspected yearly, preferably before the start of the cold-weather season when heaters and furnaces are first used
• These appliances include gas stoves and ovens, furnaces and heaters, water heaters, generators, and clothes dryers
• All such devices should be properly installed and vented to the outside whenever possible
• If repairs are necessary, be sure they are performed by a qualified technician
• Always use the proper fuel specified for the device
• Have flues and chimneys for fuel-burning fireplaces or wood stoves inspected regularly for cracks, leaks, and blockages that may allow a buildup of CO to occur
• Never use gas stoves or ovens to heat the home, even temporarily
• Do not start or idle a vehicle in a garage, even with the outer garage door open
• For additional protection, purchase a CO detector (either battery operated or plug-in) and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper location and installation
• Learn what to do should the CO alarm activate: If anyone in the home experiences symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, blurred vision, nausea, or confusion, everyone should leave immediately and seek medical attention. If no symptoms are felt, open doors and windows immediately and shut off all fuel-burning devices that may be potential sources of CO.

Pillar To Post SE King County serves, Issaquah, Renton, Maple Valley, Enumclaw, Bellevue and surrounding areas

Visit Us at www.ptphome.com/sekingcounty

MAKE YOUR HOME “INSPECTION-READY”

From routine maintenance to detecting conditions that could signify the need for major repairs, there are many simple steps your seller can take to prepare their home for a professional home inspection. In addition, on the day of the inspection, attention to a few details can go a long way to ensuring that everything goes smoothly.

DISCLOSURES

Disclose past catastrophes such as fires or floods, or if the property was ever used as a marijuana grow house or meth lab Provide building permits and plans for any major renovations Disclose any work that was completed without the proper permits Provide invoices and warrantees for major improvements, roofs, furnaces, and appliances

ROUTINE MAINTENANCE – EXTERIOR

Repair damaged masonry on walkways and steps Seal any cracks in the driveway Repair minor defects in exterior wall materials Recaulk around exterior windows and doors Replace damaged or missing shingles Recaulk around flashing Clean debris from gutters and check downspouts for proper drainage

ROUTINE MAINTENANCE – INTERIOR

Repair leaky faucets and fixtures Recaulk around bathtubs and sinks Have an electrician inspect receptacles and switches and make any necessary repairs Repair any cracked or broken window glass and loosen any windows that are painted shut Arrange service for the furnace and central air conditioning Have the chimney swept Replace batteries in smoke detectors and install detectors where missing

ON THE DAY OF THE INSPECTION

Allow sufficient time for the inspection – the average Pillar To Post inspection takes between 2.5 and 3 hours Be sure that keys are available for any locked doors Allow access to storage sheds, attics, yards, crawlspaces, basements, and garages Provide access to components such as electrical panels, water meter, and gas meter Move objects from around the water heater, furnace, and air conditioner to allow unimpeded access Clear paths of snow and debris Keep pets in a safe location out of the home or in a crate Pillar To Post SE King County serving, Issaquah, Renton, Maple Valley, Bellevue, Enumclaw, Covington, Black Diamond, and surrounding areas

Add Value Home Repairs

HOME REPAIRS BEFORE SALE CAN ADD VALUE

Many homeowners often overlook easy and relatively inexpensive fixes that can add real value to a home’s selling price. While major remodeling is costly and may not address the needs and tastes of prospective buyers, these repairs and maintenance suggestions have universal appeal and may help a home sell more quickly – and for more.
INTERIOR

* Bathrooms and the kitchen should be given a deep cleaning. Homeowners should consider hiring a cleaning company that offers “move in / move out” cleaning services to do the job.
* If kitchen cabinet surfaces are in bad shape, refacing may be an option. Far less expensive than new cabinetry, refacing can give old and worn cabinets new life and can visually update a kitchen.
* Consider replacing kitchen or bathroom counters with a neutral colored laminate surface if the current material is badly worn or stained. This gives everything a fresh look and prevents buyers from focusing on an eyesore.
* Fresh paint on the walls and ceilings will do wonders for all rooms in the house. Stick to neutral colors so that buyers aren’t distracted by the color. They’ll be able to imagine themselves and their furniture in the space much more easily.
* If carpet is covering hardwood floors, consider having the carpet removed to expose the hardwood flooring. Hardwood floors are desirable, so they should be shown off. If carpet is to remain, it should be thoroughly cleaned.


EXTERIOR

* If the entire exterior needs painting, it should be done. Buyers notice if paint is faded and peeling. If the paint is in good shape overall, renew the doors and trim with a fresh coat.
* Clean the windows inside and out so they sparkle. It’s amazing what a difference this can make in a home’s appearance. Hiring a professional window cleaning company is the easiest and safest way to get the job done on a multi-story home.
* Clear clutter from the yard, keep the lawn mowed, and trim any overgrown shrubs that are detracting from the home’s appearance. The home should look well maintained even at first glance.
* Plant some bright, colorful flowers along an entry path and doorway to add a welcoming touch.


Homeowners should save their major remodeling projects (and budget) for their new home, not the one they are about to sell, but implementing some of the steps above can increase the appeal to prospective buyers without a huge investment of time or money.

Pillar To Post SE King County Serving, Issaquah, Renton, Maple Valley, Bellevue, Covington, Enumclaw and surrounding areas

Posted By: Brendan Marchant

Pillar To Post Professional Home inspection, (SE King county)

Ptphome.com/sekingcounty

Tags: Real Estate Marketing, Pillar To Post, Home Inspection, Issaquah, Washington

Home sales are slowing?? You’re kidding, right? And really how can a Home Inspector help to close deals or speed the purchase or sale process. Don’t they always “kill deals”?

My answer: The Pre-Listing Inspection.

Two identical home’s on the same street, both built by the same builder 25 years ago.

Home #1 is listed the traditional method, seller finds agent and the agent lists and markets home etc… After 90 days on the market and five showings the home’s price is lowered; an offer is accepted contingent on inspection. The faithful home inspector is called and an inspection is performed. The buyer learns that the roof is nearing or past the end of it’s life expectancy, the furnace has never been serviced, the crawlspace is full of debris and rodents, and the siding is in need of paint.

What now? Does the buyer panic and walk? Re-negotiate repairs, or say all is well and continue with the process.

I feel that most buyers will use this as a time to re-negotiate, and why not? And if they are going to take the time to ask, go big or go home. So the list is created, and comes back requesting a new roof, new furnace and for all of the siding to be replaced with the highest quality, most up-to-date siding etc. The bomb has been dropped and now the seller feels that the only way they can salvage the deal is to do all that has been asked. Loosing tens of thousands of dollars, of which could have been profit.

This recently happened to a home inspection client of mine; they sold a home in California and now have moved to Renton, Washington. Their home in California went on the market and sat, the price was lowered $30,000 and an offer was accepted, once again contingent on inspection. With the same results as above, the seller feeling the rush of moving, put in a new furnace, roof and made countless repairs, all to close the deal. Once again to see a large amount of what could have been profit coming out of the final sale price.

Home #2 is listed in a slightly different way. Seller finds a quality professional agent and the agent as part of their marketing, invites the seller to hire a quality well respected Home Inspector to perform a Pre-Listing Inspection. Through the course of the inspection, the inspector notes that he roof is nearing or past the end of its life, the furnace has never been serviced, the crawlspace is full of debris and rodents, and the siding is in need of paint. Now the seller is in control, they have the opportunity to make the choice, do they perform all of the required repairs, now taking the time to shop contractors, acquire bids and get quality professional repairs or do they disclose the information to the future buyers and do nothing. It is their choice. Dan Steward President of Pillar To Post Professional Home Inspection stated, “It’s cheaper to fix it than to negotiate the price down. It’s been suggested that for every 1$ of identifiable repairs the buyer would be looking for double that in price reduction”. The report now can be used as a selling feature of the home and a summary can be provided as well as a detailed list of repairs and receipts, all giving that buyer the warm and fuzzy’s.

The new buyer is very well informed, the home has new selling features and the sale can continue with limited concerns. The seller is not required to make huge discounts to the home because of home maintenance repairs and concerns and also can more effectively price the home.

Brendan Marchant is the owner of the Pillar To Post franchise located in SE King County Washington. More information on Brendan and Pillar To Post can be found at ptphome.com/sekingcounty

Additional links:

ABC’s channel 15 Phoenix New Ideas for sale

http://www.abc15.com/mediacenter/local.aspx?videoid=6614@knxv.dayport.com&navCatId=21

LA times article on Seller home inspection (Pre-Listing Inspection)

http://www.latimes.com/classified/realestate/printedition/la-re-inspect26aug26,1,4887911.story?ctrack=1&cset=true

7 Easy steps to Spring Clean

SPRING CLEAN YOUR HOME IN 7 EASY STEPS

Everyone knows spring cleaning sounds like a great idea. You say you’ll do it, then a few more weeks go by, then another month, and before we know it spring cleaning takes a back seat to everything else. By breaking spring cleaning down into manageable tasks that can be accomplished over a couple of weekends, you can get the whole job done without feeling like you’ve missed out on all the fun. It doesn’t have to feel like drudgery either – put on some music or listen to an audio book while you work. Here are 7 ways to make your home feel as fresh and clean as a spring breeze.

1. Tackle those windows. Okay, no one really likes this task, but what a difference it will make! Windows should be thoroughly cleaned inside and out – you’ll be amazed how your home will sparkle inside and out once the dust and dirt are gone. Considering hiring a professional window cleaning company, especially if you have a multilevel home. They’ll have the equipment and experience to do the job safely. If you have screens, now is the time to wash them and repair any holes or tears. If screens are completely removable, take them outside and wash with a scrub brush and mild detergent, then hose off and let dry in the sun.

2. Curtain call. Windows are easiest to clean when the curtains, shades, and blinds are removed. Use this opportunity to get drapes and curtains laundered or dry cleaned (check labels first), and give blinds, shades, and other treatments a good cleaning and dusting. Some vacuum cleaners have special attachments that will make cleaning blinds a breeze.

3. Get all the angles. Going from room to room, use a long-handled duster to make quick work of dusting ceilings, moldings, and corners. If you have ceiling fans, dust the tops and bottoms of the fan blades and around the motor housing (this is also a great time to replace light bulbs in fan fixtures).

4. Make a grand entrance. Clean porches, steps, and railings of accumulated dirt and grime and you’ll have a bright welcome every time you come home. Replace light bulbs in porch and outdoor fixtures. While you’re at it, add a colorful potted plant or two to welcome spring. Keep an eye out for any needed repairs and make a note to get to them in the weeks ahead.

5. Under cover. Gather your heavy winter bedspreads and comforters and have them cleaned, then store away until cooler weather comes. Vacuum mattresses and box springs and clean up those dust bunnies that have hibernated under the bed. Launder mattress covers, take lighter weight bedding from storage and air out for a day before using.

6. A better bath. A deep spring cleaning of fixtures, sinks, tubs, and toilets supplements the everyday surface cleaning that keeps things looking good. Work from top to bottom, ceiling to floor, and keep all of your cleaning products, scrubbing tools, etc. with you in a bucket so you’ll have everything you need at your side. Use an old toothbrush to reach into crevices to get things shipshape, and you won’t have to do it again anytime soon. Don’t forget to clean bathroom exhaust fans to keep them working their best.

7. Kitchen confidential. Wrap up your spring cleaning in the kitchen. After regular use during the colder weather, the stove and oven can likely use a deep cleaning. Clear countertops of clutter and wipe down small appliances and cabinets. Wash the walls and floor, and give the kitchen sink a thorough scrubbing. Now is also the perfect time to rid your refrigerator of old or expired items (check those door shelves lately?) and clean produce bins and shelves following manufacturer’s instructions. Then reward yourself with a vase of spring flowers and enjoy your sparkling home!

Pillar To Post Serving South East King County Washington, Issaquah, Renton, Maple Valley, Enumclaw, and surrounding areas.