Dirk's Blog

  It is imperative to note that shingles should extend 1/4" and not extend beyond 3/4” (19 mm) past the drip edge. Overhanging shingles beyond this limit are not supported and may break off, leading to potential damage. Without an overhang, water may run down the side of the facia, causing moisture intrusion. Regrettably, this is not a consideration that most home inspectors take into account. Thus, it is crucial to check the roof's shingle overhang during inspections. Gutters are another crucial element that can prevent additional issues. Adequately installed gutters can save homeowners from potential headaches caused by water damage.

  A basic emergency supply kit should include items like: Water, at least one gallon per person per day Non-perishable food, for at least a few days Flashlight, with extra batteries First aid kit Battery-powered or hand crank radio Local maps Manual can opener Tissues Toilet paper and bags with ties Paper and pen or pencil You can store these items in an easy-to-carry container, like a backpack or duffle bag. Depending on your family's needs, you may also need: Medical supplies Pet food Contact lens solution Diapers You should also keep copies of important documents, such as: Medication list, Proof of address, Passports, Birth certificates, Insurance policies.

In the realm of modern technology, Wireless Fidelity (WiFi) has become a ubiquitous feature that allows electronic devices to connect and communicate with each other without the use of physical cables or wires. This remarkable technology utilizes radio waves to transmit and receive data between devices that are equipped with WiFi capabilities. The idea of wireless communication was first demonstrated by ALOHAnet in 1971 when the potential of this technology was realized. However, it wasn't until 1974 that Vic Hayes popularized the use of his type of WiFi by introducing the ISM band for unlicensed use. Today, WECA "from Alliance & Interbrand coin the term WiFi" has become an indispensable feature that is widely used by a plethora of electronic devices, including laptops, smartphones, and tablets. It typically operates on either 2.4 or 5 GHz frequencies to connect to the internet, making it an essential part of our daily lives. Now with that being said which one should ...

Doors and windows have a function and to keep them functional we have some advice. It is advisable to avoid leaving doors and windows open for an extended period as this can cause stress on latches and hardware. Such stress may result in the latches and hardware going out of square and not functioning correctly. Therefore, it is recommended that you keep doors closed at all times and avoid hanging heavy things on them. If you notice any issues with your door, you can replace a hinge screw with a longer wood screw to keep the door square. In addition, it is essential to lock your windows to enhance safety and energy conservation.

  The MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) measures how well air can flow through a filter while blocking dust and dirt particles. A higher MERV rating means less dirt and dust can pass through, keeping your air handler cleaner for longer. After conducting extensive research, I recommend a MERV 11 filter for your home, as it effectively traps large dust particles without limiting suction power. It's important to remember that your home is not a hospital and does not require the same level of air filtration. If your suction power is limited, it can affect the blower and make your home less comfortable in every room. Regularly changing your air filter is crucial in keeping your air handler in tip-top shape. I set an alarm on my phone to change mine out so I don't forget. The thickness of the filter determines how often you should replace it. 1 inch = 1 month. You may also get a washable filter and rinse and reuse it. This is a cost upfront, but in a year it will pay for itse...

  Maintaining a pool can be overwhelming. It involves checking for toxic chemicals and ensuring that the chlorine and acidity levels are balanced. Proper pump operation and filter cleaning are also necessary for keeping the pool in shape. If you're unsure about any of these aspects, it's best to take a water sample from your pool (about 15 inches below the surface) and consult with a pool store expert. They can provide valuable advice and guidance. If you don't know your pool's size, you can measure it with a tape measure by determining the length, width, and deepest depth. To measure the deepest part, use a string with a fishing sinker and mark where the line gets wet. Then, measure every foot until you reach the sinker. Most pools are either 5 or 10 feet deep, so deeper pools are rare.

If you happen to come across a Federal Pacific (Stub Lok) electrical panel, it is imperative that you take extreme caution. These panels are known for causing arc blasts, which can result in significant damage that may not be covered by insurance. As an experienced electrician, I highly advise against removing these panels, even for a 4-point inspection. In fact, during inspections in Florida, I find it best to leave that area blank and indicate that it is "unsafe to remove." Unfortunately, over the years, I have encountered many inspectors who insist on removing these panels, despite the potential risks. In one unfortunate instance in Texas, an individual who removed a Federal Pacific panel ended up needing skin grafts on his face. It should be noted that simply shutting off the main breaker may not always be sufficient, and the breakers themselves are often fragile and prone to breaking during removal. Additionally, the breakers can be loose, leading to potential mishaps wh...