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Introduction: A Poisoned Promise In the name of a pest-free home, millions of Americans pay companies to spray chemical insecticides around their houses every year. Promising “barrier protection,” “total elimination,” and “season-long coverage,” these services appeal to our desire for comfort and control. But what’s often missing in the sales pitch is a deeper truth: these insecticides are poisons—not just to insects, but to pets, people, pollinators, and the entire local ecosystem. In many cases, the benefits they promise are short-lived, while the harm they cause can be long-term and far-reaching. This blog explores the dangers of routine insecticide spraying around homes, the misleading practices of some pest control companies, and most importantly, safer, eco-friendly solutions that protect your family without poisoning your property. 1. Understanding Insecticides: What’s Being Sprayed? Most residential pest control companies use a group of chemicals called synthetic pyrethroids, cousins of naturally occurring pyrethrins found in chrysanthemum flowers. While these synthetic versions are marketed as “safe,” they are potent neurotoxins designed to paralyze and kill insects. Some formulations are combined with organophosphates or neonicotinoids, both of which are controversial due to their impacts on human health and pollinators. Common ingredients you might see include: * Permethrin * Bifenthrin * Deltamethrin * Cypermethrin These chemicals are sprayed around foundations, patios, lawns, and sometimes even inside the home. They don’t just kill pests—they kill beneficial insects, linger in the soil, and can seep into water systems. Many are labeled as endocrine disruptors, neurotoxins, or carcinogens in high or cumulative doses. 2. Health Hazards to Humans and Pets While pest control companies often claim their products are “pet and kid safe,” this is a marketing sleight of hand. The label may suggest it’s safe *after it dries*, but that doesn’t mean it’s safe during application—or safe in the long term. Short-term effects can include: * Headaches * Dizziness * Respiratory issues * Skin and eye irritation Long-term exposure, especially through repeated applications, is linked to: * Hormonal imbalances * Cancer (especially non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma) * Neurodevelopmental disorders in children * Fertility issues Pets, especially cats and dogs, are particularly vulnerable because they walk, sniff, and roll in the treated areas. Cats lack the liver enzyme to break down pyrethroids and can experience tremors, vomiting, and seizures. Infants and toddlers, who crawl on sprayed surfaces and put hands in their mouths, face higher exposure per body weight, making them more susceptible to developmental problems. 3. Collateral Damage: How Insecticides Harm the Ecosystem Pesticides don’t discriminate. They affect far more than the pests they’re intended to kill. a. Pollinators in Peril Bees, butterflies, and moths—essential to food production and biodiversity—are decimated by insecticide drift and residue. Neonicotinoids, in particular, are widely linked to colony collapse disorder in honeybees. b. Birds and Amphibians Studies show that small songbirds and amphibians like frogs are affected when they eat contaminated insects or drink from treated puddles. Even low doses can interfere with reproduction, navigation, and feeding. c. Soil and Aquatic Life Runoff from lawns and sprayed areas carries insecticides into storm drains, creeks, and lakes. There, they disrupt aquatic ecosystems, killing off insect larvae, crustaceans, and fish eggs, and altering the food web in ways that echo for years. d. Killing Nature’s Pest Control Ironically, insecticides also kill natural predators of the pests they’re supposed to control—ladybugs, lacewings, parasitic wasps, and birds—leading to a pest resurgence and more spraying in a vicious cycle. 4. Deceptive Marketing and Misleading Practices Many pest control companies market their services with terms like: * “Eco-friendly formula” * “Family safe” * “Low impact” * “Green certified” But these labels are largely unregulated, and in many cases, these products are still synthetic chemicals that disrupt ecosystems. A few deceptive practices to be aware of: * Greenwashing: Using words like “natural” or “botanical” even when products contain synthetic ingredients. * Overapplication: Recommending monthly spraying even when pests are seasonal or manageable without chemicals. * Fear tactics: Suggesting that homes are in danger of infestation without regular spraying. * Bundled services: Encouraging treatments for pests that aren’t even present in your area. Companies often fail to disclose the full environmental impact, including how long chemicals remain active in the soil or their effect on bees and wildlife. 5. There Is a Better Way: Safe, Natural Pest Control Alternatives Controlling insects doesn’t have to mean dousing your home in poison. Here are effective, science-backed, safer solutions you can use as a homeowner: a. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) IPM is a comprehensive strategy that reduces pest populations through prevention, monitoring, and targeted interventions. It focuses on the least toxic solution first and uses pesticides only as a last resort. Steps include: * Seal entry points: Caulk cracks, fix screens, and close gaps in windows or doors. * Remove attractants: Store food in sealed containers, fix leaks, and reduce standing water. * Use traps and baits: Sticky traps and pheromone lures can help monitor and catch pests without chemicals. * Introduce beneficial insects: Ladybugs, nematodes, and predatory mites help control pest populations naturally. b. Natural Repellents Many essential oils and plant extracts repel pests without harming people or animals. Examples include: * Cedarwood oil – Repels ants, moths, and fleas. * Peppermint oil – Deters spiders and mice. * Neem oil – Disrupts insect hormones without killing pollinators. * Garlic spray – Repels aphids and beetles in gardens. Always test in small areas and consult with a vet before using around pets. c. Physical Barriers and Traps * Diatomaceous earth (food-grade) kills insects by dehydrating them but is safe for humans and pets. * Copper tape prevents slugs from entering gardens. * Yellow sticky cards catch flying insects indoors and in greenhouses. d. Biological Controls Use nature to fight nature. Some examples: * Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) – A naturally occurring bacterium that kills caterpillars and larvae. * Nematodes – Microscopic worms that kill soil-dwelling grubs and fleas. e. Manual Removal and Targeted Solutions Rather than blanket spraying: * Hand-remove wasp nests at dusk when they are inactive. * Vacuum up ants and follow their trail to the colony. * Use boiling water or vinegar for anthills or outdoor nests. * Apply boric acid in crevices where cockroaches hide. 6. Educating Your Neighborhood and Taking Action Even if you stop spraying, your neighbors might continue—and unfortunately, pesticides don’t respect property lines. That’s why education and advocacy matter. Steps to take: * Talk to neighbors about your concerns and share natural solutions. * Place signage indicating your yard is pesticide-free and pollinator-friendly. * Support local legislation that limits or regulates cosmetic pesticide use. * Encourage schools and community parks to adopt IPM strategies instead of routine chemical spraying. You might also consider joining or forming a community pesticide-free zone or pollinator habitat initiative. 7. When You DO Need Professional Help: What to Ask Sometimes, pest problems get beyond your control. If you need professional help, choose a company committed to safety and sustainability. Ask these questions: * Do you use IPM principles? * What specific chemicals do you use, and can I see the safety data sheets? * Are your treatments safe for pets and pollinators? * How do you minimize runoff or drift? * Do you offer non-chemical alternatives first? Look for companies certified by EcoWise, Green Shield Certified, or National Organic Program standards—not just ones with generic “green” marketing. Conclusion: Reclaiming a Safe, Living Ecosystem The desire to protect your home from pests is natural—but it shouldn't come at the expense of your health, your pets, or the pollinators and wildlife that keep our ecosystems thriving. Spraying poison around your home may solve a short-term inconvenience, but it invites long-term problems that can ripple far beyond your backyard. By understanding what’s being sprayed—and who it’s affecting—you can make informed, conscious choices. Safer, smarter alternatives are readily available. Insects are part of our world. We don’t have to wage war against them; we just need to learn to live wisely with them. Call to Action: ✅ Want a pest-free home without poison? Download our FREE Natural Pest Control Checklist and start your safe, sustainable pest defense today. 📩 Share this blog with your community to help educate others about eco-friendly alternatives to insecticide spraying. 🐝 Remember: every yard that goes pesticide-free becomes a small sanctuary in a world that desperately needs it. Let’s build a better future—one safe home at a time.

As a home inspector, I’ve walked through numerous houses—new builds, historic charmers, fixer-uppers, and everything in between. Over the years, I’ve watched the American housing landscape change, but one trend has become glaringly clear: homes are no longer just places to live—they’ve become symbols of economic tension. What used to be a reasonable dream for middle-income families is now, for many, a distant and increasingly expensive aspiration. A recent chart from Statista confirmed what those of us in the industry have long suspected. From 1985 to 2023, median home prices in the U.S. increased by 408%, while median household income rose only 241%. In simpler terms, in 1985, it took 3.6 times the median income to buy a home. By 2023, that figure had ballooned to 5.3 times. That growing gap isn’t just a number—it’s real-life pressure for families trying to put down roots. Let’s take a deeper look at how we got here and what it means for homeowners, buyers, and anyone who cares about the future of housing in America. The Long Climb: From Affordable to Aspirational When I purchased my first homes in the 1980s, buyers often brought modest expectations and realistic budgets. The median home cost $84,300, and median income was around $23,620. Sure, money was tighter, but owning a home was still within reach for the average family—especially with mortgage rates gradually declining from their record-high double digits in the early ’80s. Fast forward to 2023, and the story looks very different. That same average family now brings in $80,610 a year, while the median new home costs $428,600. It’s not just sticker shock—it’s the culmination of four decades where home price growth has far outpaced income growth. As a home inspector, I see this reflected in the kinds of clients I serve. First-time buyers are older. They often need co-signers. And many settle for less than ideal homes because it’s all they can afford—if they can afford anything at all. The Pandemic Acceleration: A Perfect Storm Housing prices had already been outpacing wages for years, but COVID-19 threw gasoline on the fire. As lockdowns gripped the country in 2020, something strange happened in the real estate market. Interest rates dropped to near-zero as the Federal Reserve moved to stimulate the economy. Stimulus checks and pandemic savings gave Americans unexpected financial flexibility. With more people working from home and reevaluating their lifestyles, demand for houses exploded. But there was a catch—supply couldn’t keep up. Construction slowed due to labor shortages and material delays. Sellers, uncertain about the economy and hesitant to let strangers walk through their homes during a health crisis, chose to sit tight. As a result, the demand-supply imbalance sent prices soaring. I saw homes selling sight-unseen. I saw buyers waiving inspections and appraisals. In the rush to buy, rational decision-making often took a back seat. The frenzy was good for sellers and short-term profits, but it also locked out a generation of buyers. Even now, I encounter clients still trying to recover from bidding wars they lost two years ago—or worse, nursing regrets from purchases made too hastily. The Fed’s Response: Cooling Off at a Cost When inflation surged in 2021–2022, the Federal Reserve changed course. Interest rates climbed rapidly in an attempt to bring prices down. Mortgage rates more than doubled in many cases, making already expensive homes even less accessible. While home prices have cooled slightly in some regions, the combination of high prices and high borrowing costs means affordability remains at a crisis point. As a home inspector, I’ve noticed fewer transactions in some markets—not because people don’t want to move, but because they feel stuck. Homeowners with 2.75% mortgage rates don’t want to trade up to 7% mortgages. Buyers on the sidelines are waiting for prices or rates—or both—to drop. But time keeps ticking, and for many, the dream of homeownership is slipping further away. Real Consequences on Real People It’s easy to talk numbers and ratios, but let’s put a face to this crisis. I recently inspected a modest three-bedroom ranch built in the 1970s—good bones, outdated kitchen, needed a roof. The list price was $355,000. The couple buying it were both in their mid-30s, each with steady jobs. Even with 10% down and solid credit, their monthly payment (including taxes and insurance) would push $2,500. Thirty years ago, that same house would have cost them less than $100,000. This isn’t just a math problem—it’s a life planning issue. When housing eats up more than a third of your income, there’s less for savings, emergencies, and retirement. It delays marriage, family planning, and relocation for better jobs. And it can create long-term disparities in wealth accumulation since home equity has traditionally been one of the most reliable ways to build financial security. What This Means for the Market—and for Inspectors Like Me From my vantage point, this affordability crunch has reshaped the inspection landscape too. More buyers are stretching their budgets and entering the market with little to spare for repairs or upgrades. As an inspector, this puts pressure on me to be even more thorough and realistic in my reports. My findings may influence whether a buyer can afford the home—not just the purchase, but the cost of making it safe and livable. We’ve also seen a rise in “as-is” sales, especially during the pandemic spike, where sellers accept no repair responsibilities. This makes the home inspection even more crucial. A leaky roof, old HVAC system, or signs of foundation settling can mean tens of thousands in future costs—something a buyer already at the edge of affordability simply can’t handle. The Hidden Costs of Deferred Maintenance Here’s another pattern I’ve noticed: when homeowners are stretched thin financially, they tend to delay maintenance. Understandably so—but it can come back to bite them when it’s time to sell. I often walk into homes with aging systems, patchwork repairs, and decades of neglect. These issues can derail a sale or require steep price reductions to move forward. What I recommend to homeowners (especially those not planning to move soon) is to approach maintenance with the same discipline they apply to mortgage payments. A roof that’s patched rather than replaced might save a few bucks today, but it could scare off buyers tomorrow. Keeping up with the health of your home isn’t just smart—it’s essential in a market where margins are tight and buyers are cautious. Tips for Buyers Navigating Today’s Market For buyers wondering how to survive (and thrive) in this market, here are a few practical insights from someone who’s seen a lot of deals—good and bad: Don’t skip the inspection. No matter how hot the market, never waive your right to know what you’re buying. Surprises are expensive. Budget beyond the sale price. Include repair estimates, closing costs, and moving expenses in your calculations. Think long-term. Even if you overpay slightly today, will the neighborhood, schools, and local economy support future value growth? Stay realistic. You may not get your dream house on the first try. Focus on safe, solid properties you can improve over time. Get pre-approved, not just pre-qualified. In this competitive landscape, preparation is power. What Policymakers and Builders Need to Hear It’s not just individual buyers who need to adapt—the broader system does too. Builders must find ways to increase inventory, especially for entry-level homes. Zoning regulations, material costs, and labor shortages all play a role, but if we don’t address supply, prices will continue to climb beyond what the average household can handle. Policymakers should consider tax incentives for first-time buyers, targeted subsidies, and initiatives to promote affordable housing development. The market won’t correct on its own without intervention, especially when wages continue to trail housing costs. Looking Ahead: Will the Gap Close? There’s no silver bullet. Some experts predict a market correction, while others believe current prices are the new normal. Either way, the fundamental mismatch between income growth and home price appreciation remains a challenge that won’t disappear overnight. As a home inspector, I believe that transparency, education, and preparation are the best tools buyers can carry. Understanding what a home truly costs—not just to buy, but to own—is key to making smart decisions in a complex housing market. Final Thoughts: A House Is Still a Home Despite all the stress and numbers, we should remember that a house is more than a financial instrument—it’s a place of safety, family, and belonging. That’s why the affordability crisis matters so deeply. It’s not just about economics—it’s about who gets to put down roots and build a life. Whether you’re buying, selling, or staying put, your home deserves care and attention. And as inspectors, we’ll keep doing our part—one attic, one foundation, one crawlspace at a time—to help people make informed, confident choices. Interested in learning more about preparing your home for inspection or navigating today’s real estate challenges? Visit us at West Egg Inspections and Home Services for tools, tips, and local insights that help you stay one step ahead in any market.

Everything You Need to Know to Dry Out a Wet Basement: A Home Inspector's Guide from West Egg Inspections and Home Services At West Egg Inspections and Home Services, we’ve seen firsthand how a wet basement can quietly undermine a home’s structural integrity and even jeopardize your health. Dampness, mold, mildew, and water damage are not just aesthetic concerns—they signal deeper problems that, if left unaddressed, can cost you thousands in repairs. Whether you're a seasoned homeowner or just starting out, understanding the causes and solutions for basement moisture is critical. In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to diagnose and fix a wet basement, offer both short-term and long-term remedies, and help you understand when it’s time to bring in the professionals. Spotting the Signs: Is Your Basement Wet? The sooner you spot the signs of moisture, the easier—and cheaper—it will be to fix. Here’s what to look for: Pools of water on the floor Damp or wet walls Musty odors Mold and mildew growth White, chalky efflorescence on masonry Peeling paint or bubbling wallpaper Rusty tools, shelving, or appliances Warped baseboards or wooden posts Any of these signs should trigger immediate investigation. Why Is My Basement Wet? Understanding the Root Causes From our years of inspecting homes across the region, most basement moisture issues fall into one of three categories: 1. Condensation Condensation happens when warm, humid air hits the cooler surfaces of your basement, like pipes or uninsulated walls. Test it: Tape a piece of aluminum foil to a damp wall. After 24 hours, if water is on the outside, it’s condensation. Fix it: Improve ventilation—install fans or a dehumidifier Insulate cold water pipes Apply waterproof coatings like DryLok or Xypex 2. Runoff This occurs when rain or snowmelt isn’t directed away from your foundation and instead pushes water into your basement walls. Signs: Moisture appears after storms or snowmelt. Fix it: Ensure soil slopes away from your home (1" per foot for at least 6 feet) Extend downspouts at least 4 feet from the foundation Clean your gutters Consider installing a dry well or rain garden 3. Subsurface Seepage This is groundwater pushing up through the floor or walls due to high water tables or poor drainage. Signs: Basement is wet year-round, even when it hasn’t rained. Fix it: Seal cracks with urethane caulk Install a sump pump system Create an interior or exterior drain tile system Consult a waterproofing professional How Bad Is It? Assessing the Severity Mild: Occasional dampness, minor puddling after heavy rain —DIY is usually enough. Moderate to Severe: Persistent wetness, signs of mold, or water coming through floors or walls —Hire a professional to avoid worsening the damage. First Response: Quick Fixes to Dry Your Basement Act fast to reduce damage and mold risk: 1. Boost Airflow Set up high-powered fans to circulate air Open windows if weather allows 2. Remove Standing Water Use a wet/dry vacuum or rent a submersible pump Mop and towel remaining moisture 3. Lower Humidity Use a heavy-duty dehumidifier (50-pint capacity or more) Monitor with a hygrometer to stay below 50% humidity 4. Turn Up the Heat (in Winter) Warmer temps reduce surface condensation Long-Term Fixes for a Permanently Dry Basement Temporary solutions only go so far. For lasting protection, take these steps: 1. Improve Drainage Around the House Regularly clean gutters Use downspout extensions or French drains Maintain a proper grade around your foundation 2. Seal the Interior Patch wall cracks with hydraulic cement Apply waterproof coatings to walls and floors 3. Install a Sump Pump Prevents water accumulation from underground seepage Consider battery backup for power outages DIY Waterproofing Options for Handy Homeowners If you’re comfortable with a paintbrush and some elbow grease: 1. Waterproof Paints & Sealants UGL’s DryLok or similar products provide a barrier Clean and dry surfaces thoroughly before application 2. Ventilation Improvements Install exhaust fans in laundry/bathroom areas Use foundation vents or fans for crawl spaces When It’s Time to Call in the Pros Some moisture issues are too complex or severe for DIY. Professional waterproofers offer services like: Interior Waterproofing: Perimeter drainage systems under the basement slab Sump pump installation and wall sealants Exterior Waterproofing: Excavating around the foundation to apply membranes Installing exterior French drains French Drains: Installed underground to redirect water away from the foundation Great for homes with high water tables Cost Comparison: DIY vs. Professional Here’s a breakdown of typical costs: DIY: DryLok: $160 per 5-gallon bucket (covers ~300 sq ft) Dehumidifier: $200–$500 Fans: $30–$100 each Professional: Interior drainage system: $3,000–$8,000 Exterior waterproofing: $8,000–$15,000 Sump pump system: $1,200–$3,000 While costly, professional systems are often warranted for 10–25 years and include labor. Choosing the Right Contractor If you hire help, look for: Licensed and insured providers 5+ years of waterproofing experience Transparent pricing and written estimates Warranty-backed work Good reviews and referrals Get 2–3 quotes before committing and ask lots of questions. Proactive Prevention: Keeping Your Basement Dry Long-Term Don’t wait for water to show up. Prevent moisture year-round: 1. Regular Inspections Clean gutters 2–3 times per year Monitor humidity and seal new cracks Test sump pump quarterly 2. Smart Landscaping Keep soil graded away from foundation Avoid water-heavy plants near the house Install rain gardens or dry wells if needed Final Thoughts from West Egg Inspections As home inspectors, we know that what lies beneath your house matters just as much as what’s on top. A wet basement doesn’t have to spell disaster—but it does demand attention. Drying out a basement requires equal parts diagnosis, action, and prevention. Whether you tackle it yourself or call in a pro, the key is doing it right the first time. The comfort of your home—and the integrity of your investment—depends on it. If you need a trusted eye on your moisture issue, West Egg Inspections and Home Services is here to help. Reach out anytime for an inspection or referral. Let’s keep your home dry, healthy, and worry-free. Stay Dry, Stay Safe — The West Egg Way.

If electricity puzzles you, you’re not alone. Many homeowners feel overwhelmed when trying to understand what terms like amps, volts, watts, and ohms really mean—especially when it comes to working safely on household electrical systems. This post will break down each of these essential electrical terms in simple language, explain how they relate to each other using Ohm’s Law, and provide important safety tips for any DIY work around your home. Let’s flip the switch and start making sense of the electricity flowing through your walls. What Is a Volt? Volt (V) is a unit of electrical potential or pressure. It tells you how strongly electricity is being pushed through a circuit. You can think of volts like the water pressure in a hose—higher pressure (higher voltage) pushes more electricity through the system. In the U.S., most homes use 120 volts for standard outlets (like for lamps or TVs), and 240 volts for heavy-duty appliances like electric dryers and ovens. The more volts, the more “force” behind the electrical flow. What Is an Amp? Amp (A) stands for ampere, which measures electrical current—the flow of electric charge through a wire. If volts are the pressure, amps are the amount of electricity (the flow) being delivered. Back to the hose analogy: if volts are the pressure in the hose, amps are how much water is coming out. A thick stream of water (high amps) does more work than a trickle. In your home, a typical outlet can usually handle 15 to 20 amps. Exceeding that can trip a breaker—or worse—overheat wires and create a fire hazard. What Is a Watt? Watt (W) is a unit of power. It tells you how much work is being done or energy is being used. It’s the result of both volts and amps working together. Here’s the basic formula: Watts = Volts × Amps For example, a 120V circuit powering a device that draws 5 amps is using: 120 × 5 = 600 watts A 60-watt lightbulb, then, is drawing half an amp at 120 volts. Wattage is what your electric utility uses to calculate how much electricity you use—and how much to charge you. What Is an Ohm? Ohm (Ω) is a unit of electrical resistance. It measures how much a material or component resists the flow of electricity. Higher resistance means less current gets through. Think of ohms as the size of the hose nozzle. A narrow nozzle (high resistance) restricts the water flow (electric current), while a wide nozzle (low resistance) allows more water through. Materials like copper or aluminum have low resistance (good for wires), while rubber or plastic have high resistance (used for insulation). Ohm’s Law: How It All Comes Together To truly understand how volts, amps, watts, and ohms relate to each other, we turn to Ohm’s Law, a foundational formula in electrical science. The basic relationships are: • V = I × R (Volts = Amps × Resistance) • I = V ÷ R (Amps = Volts ÷ Resistance) • R = V ÷ I (Resistance = Volts ÷ Amps) • W = V × I (Watts = Volts × Amps) You’ll often see these represented in the Ohm’s Law Wheel, which makes it easy to remember how each value is connected. Ohm's Law Wheel Let’s look at an example: If you have a device that runs on 120 volts and it draws 10 amps, the power (watts) it consumes is: 120 × 10 = 1,200 watts If you know the device’s resistance (say, 12 ohms), and you apply 120 volts, the current (amps) would be: 120 ÷ 12 = 10 amps It all interconnects. Changing one value affects the others. Why These Terms Matter in Your Home Understanding these electrical units isn’t just for electricians—it’s important for any homeowner who wants to stay safe and informed. Let’s say you’re installing a new ceiling fan or replacing a light fixture. You’ll need to: • Check the wattage: Make sure your fixture doesn’t exceed the capacity of your circuit. • Understand amperage: Overloading a circuit with too many devices drawing too many amps can cause overheating and trip your breaker. • Use the correct voltage: Using a 240V appliance in a 120V outlet won’t work—and could damage the device. • Consider resistance: Using too thin a wire (high resistance) for a long run could cause voltage drop, reducing efficiency and safety. Electrical Safety Tips for Homeowners Electricity is powerful—and potentially dangerous. If you plan to do any work on your home’s electrical system, here are some essential safety tips: 1. Turn Off Power at the Breaker - Never rely on a light switch alone. Always shut off the power at the main circuit breaker before working on a fixture, outlet, or switch. 2. Test for Power - Use a voltage tester or multimeter to verify that no electricity is flowing before you touch any wires. 3. Know Your Circuit Limits - Don’t overload a single circuit. If your breaker trips often, it’s likely being asked to handle too much current. Spread out high-wattage appliances across circuits or upgrade your panel with a professional’s help. 4. Use the Right Wire Gauge - Higher amps require thicker wires. Using a wire that’s too thin for the current can cause overheating and fire. A 15-amp circuit typically uses 14-gauge wire, while a 20-amp circuit uses 12-gauge wire. 5. Avoid Aluminum Wire for DIY Projects - Aluminum has higher resistance and is more prone to corrosion than copper. If you have aluminum wiring in your home, any updates should be handled by a licensed electrician. 6. Use GFCI and AFCI Protection - Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) and Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs) protect against shock and fire. Install GFCIs in kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor areas, and consider AFCIs in bedrooms and living areas. 7. Label Your Breaker Panel - Take time to label your circuits clearly. It saves time and confusion later—and helps everyone in your household stay safe. When to Call a Professional While changing a light switch or outlet cover might be simple, anything involving your breaker panel, new wiring, or high-voltage systems should always be left to a licensed electrician. The risk of shock, fire, or code violations is too high for DIY guesses. In Summary: Power Knowledge is Power Understanding the difference between volts, amps, watts, and ohms helps demystify how electricity works and gives you confidence as a homeowner. Here’s a quick summary: • Volts = electrical pressure • Amps = amount of electrical flow • Watts = total power (volts × amps) • Ohms = resistance to flow These four components work together and are all governed by Ohm’s Law, which helps you calculate unknowns and stay safe around electricity. Armed with this knowledge and a strong commitment to safety, you can make smart decisions about electrical projects—and know when to bring in the pros. Stay safe, stay informed, and remember: when it comes to electricity, it’s better to pause and double-check than to rush and regret.

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month. Did you know that: Radon is the Leading Cause of Lung Cancer Among Non-Smokers. It is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. Nationally, the EPA estimates that about 21,000 people die each year from radon-related lung cancer. Only smoking causes more lung cancer deaths. Breathing radon over time increases your risk of lung cancer. You can take steps to reduce and control the amount of radon in your home. Testing is the only way to determine radon levels. EPA guidance suggests mitigating if levels are at or above 148 Becquerels / cubic meter or 4 picocuries / liter, typically abbreviated as 4 pCi / l. Usually, radon problems are resolved using an underground ventilation system, or ASD (Active Soil Depressurization). I am investing in equipment and the appropriate certifications / licenses required by the state of Minnesota to perform this testing service for my clients. My hope is to have everything in place starting in 2022. Full article is found below.

A home inspection helps you make a more informed decision about the home you're considering buying. A home inspector can identify potential issues, plus give you a better idea of the ongoing maintenance the property will require. When you’re buying a house, a thorough home inspection can save you thousands of dollars in unexpected repairs — or from unwittingly buying a money pit. Found below is the full article.

Something a little different to start off the new year. Rogers was the sort of TV host that both kids and parents trusted and enjoyed. The series ran for 31 seasons, from 1968 through 2001. On the show, Rogers dispensed timeless wisdom about how to be kind to others, how to feel good about yourself, and what to do when you’re up against your worst fears. Found below are 20 of Rogers’ most memorable quotes, reminders of the good old days of turning on the TV and spending an afternoon in the neighborhood.

First time homebuyers and others that are unfamiliar with how a house is constructed will benefit from this article. There are many occasions where a homeowner will need to know how to. find the "studs" to hang a heavy object, picture, etc. Wall studs are structural elements in the construction of homes. Studs are part of the framing of the building and are typically vertical wood beams that run from floor to ceiling. Full article below.

During my time as a home inspector, and as a home owner, I have seen a wide range of electrical issues. I thought it would be interesting to our readers to compile the top electrical issues that I have observed: GFCI Outlets Missing or Defective Ungrounded Outlets Reverse Polarity Outlets Electrical Panel Age Concerns Smoke Detector or Carbon Monoxide Detector Concerns Full article below:

Check your furnace filter monthly and change it when it’s dirty. You’ll get better heating in the winter and air conditioning in summer. You’ll save on your utility bills and extend the life of your furnace too. Full article below.

Most products made today do not contain asbestos. Those few products made which still contain asbestos and could be inhaled are required to be labeled as such. However, until the 1970s, many types of building products and insulation materials used in homes contained asbestos. Full article found below:

Summer is one of the best times for you to do maintenance at home. While the sun is up and it’s safer to stay outside you can take the opportunity to repair or maintain areas of the home to avoid future major repairs as well as for your peace of mind. Found below are some areas of the home that you can give extra attention to during the summer.