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Does West Egg install ... fireplace mantels? Yes we do. I just finished installing this 4' x 6" x 8" wood mantel on my brick fireplace. See the installation video here: https://youtu.be/hG5hl8cHlK8

The holiday season brings joy and warmth, often marked by festive decorations adorning homes. Amid the excitement, it’s crucial to ensure safety while decking the halls. From wreaths to lighting, here’s a guide to safely embellishing your home for the holidays: Wreaths When hanging wreaths, choose sturdy hooks or hangers suitable for the weight of the wreath. Inspect artificial wreaths for any damaged wires or sharp edges. For live wreaths, mist them regularly to keep them fresh and prevent them from becoming a fire hazard. Keep them away from heat sources and always remove them promptly after the season ends. Exterior Lighting Before hanging lights, carefully examine each strand for frayed wires, broken sockets, or any signs of wear and tear. Use outdoor-rated extension cords and lights to prevent hazards. Safely secure lights using clips or hooks rather than staples or nails to avoid damaging wires. Ensure all outdoor outlets are protected from the elements with Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) to prevent electric shocks. Indoor Lighting When using indoor lights, don’t overload electrical outlets. Use surge protectors to prevent electrical issues and fires. Turn off decorative lights when leaving the house or heading to bed to avoid potential hazards. Always unplug lights before changing bulbs or adjusting the display. Fire Safety Keep decorations, especially wreaths, trees, and lights, away from heat sources such as fireplaces, radiators, and candles. Consider using flameless candles or LED candles to create a cozy atmosphere without the fire risk. Ensure smoke detectors are functioning correctly and have a fire extinguisher on hand in case of emergencies. Secure Decorations Avoid blocking exits or pathways with large decorations, ensuring a clear escape route in case of an emergency. Secure all decorations, particularly heavy or tall items, to prevent them from toppling over in case of strong winds or accidental bumps. Tree Safety If opting for a live tree, keep it hydrated to reduce fire risks. Choose a fresh tree, regularly water it, and place it away from heat sources. For artificial trees, check for fire-resistant labels to ensure safety. Child and Pet Safety Avoid using small decorations or items that could be choking hazards, especially in households with children or pets. Keep potentially harmful plants or decorations out of reach. Ladder Safety Before stepping on a ladder, read the safety label and follow the weight limits and usage recommendations. Always keep in mind these rules: If possible, use the "buddy system" and have someone hold the base of the ladder while you are on it. The base of the ladder should be placed so that it is one foot away from the building for every four feet of height to where the ladder rests against the building. Follow the “belly button rule”: Face the ladder, keep your belly button toward it at all times, and center your belly button between the right and left side rails of the ladder. Maintain three points of contact with the ladder — either two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand. Do not stand on the top step or the ladder cap. By implementing these safety measures, you can cherish the joy of holiday decorations without compromising the safety of your home and loved ones. Enjoy a wonderful, safe, and beautifully adorned holiday season!

In the frigid winter months of Minnesota, keeping rodents, especially mice, out of your home becomes a crucial task. As temperatures drop, mice seek warmth, shelter, and food, making residential spaces an inviting sanctuary. Implementing comprehensive strategies is key to preventing these tiny invaders from gaining access to your home. To fortify your home against mouse intrusion, begin with meticulous exterior inspections. Seal any potential entry points such as cracks, gaps, and holes in walls, foundations, windows, doors, and pipes using steel wool, caulking, or metal sheeting. Mice can squeeze through incredibly small openings, so even the tiniest gap can serve as an entrance. Another vital step involves maintaining the surroundings. Keep the immediate area around your home clear of debris, such as piled firewood, leaves, and clutter, as these can serve as nesting spots for mice. Trim back tree branches and bushes that could act as a bridge for mice to access your house. Inside, uphold high standards of cleanliness. Regularly clean up crumbs, food spills, and residue, particularly in the kitchen. Store food in airtight containers, including pet food, and promptly dispose of garbage in tightly sealed bins. Eliminating potential food sources deters mice from taking up residence. Strategically placed traps or bait stations can be effective in controlling mouse populations. However, ensure these are kept out of reach of children and pets. Consider using humane traps that capture the mouse for later release outside. For larger infestations, it might be prudent to consult professional exterminators who can employ more advanced methods to eliminate the issue. Employing natural deterrents like peppermint oil, cloves, or ultrasonic devices can also repel mice. Peppermint oil, for example, can be placed on cotton balls and positioned at entry points, as the strong scent is known to be a deterrent for rodents. Furthermore, a cat can serve as a natural predator and deterrent for mice. The mere presence of a cat in the house can dissuade mice from taking up residence. Their keen senses and hunting instincts make them effective at keeping rodent populations in check. Weather stripping around doors and windows also plays a crucial role in keeping mice at bay. This prevents mice from slipping in through small openings created by deteriorating or poorly fitted weather stripping. In Minnesota’s harsh winter, where temperatures plummet, it’s also important to monitor your home’s heating systems. Maintain regular checks on HVAC units and chimneys to ensure they are well-sealed and functioning properly. Mice are drawn to warm spots and might seek refuge within these systems. By implementing preventative measures such as sealing entry points, maintaining cleanliness, deploying traps or deterrents, and considering professional help when needed, you can create an inhospitable environment for mice, ensuring a rodent-free home throughout the winter.

Ice dams can form on pitched-roof overhangs in cold climates such as Minnesota. Heat loss through the roof and heat from the sun (even in freezing temperatures) can cause snow on a roof to melt. As water runs down the roof onto the overhang, it freezes and forms an ice dam just above the gutter. The ice dam traps water from melting snow and forces it back under the shingles and into the building’s interior. Watch the edge of the roof overhang for evidence of ice dams and look at the eaves and soffit for evidence of deterioration and water damage. If the house has an attic, the underside of the roof deck at the exterior walls can be checked for signs of water intrusion. Ice dam removal is a pain, so try to prevent them from forming in the first place. The key to preventing ice dams is simply to keep your attic and roof cold. After a snowfall, a cold roof will have a thick blanket of snow. A warmer roof, however, will soon have clear spots where the snow has melted off, and may well have icicles hanging from the eaves. To keep your roof cold, follow these steps: Close up attic bypasses The Minnesota Energy Code says "An attic bypass is any air passageway between a conditioned space and an unconditioned attic." Attic bypasses are the driving force behind ice dams, as well as frost, moisture, and mold in the attic. If you eliminate all attic bypasses, you'll probably eliminate all of these problems. That's why it's so important to address attic bypasses before doing anything else. Sealing attic bypasses will also help to reduce energy bills and help with the comfort of your home. In reality, the biggest source of heat loss is through the attic, and the best return on investment is usually accomplished through air sealing and re-insulating the attic. Measure your attic insulation level Many home attics in Minnesota have some insulation; most can benefit by adding more attic insulation. Increasing attic insulation to an R-60 can provide a good barrier to heat loss (the code minimum for new buildings is R49). To determine the present R-value of your attic, have an energy assessment. You can also measure the height of the insulation and multiply times the R-value per inch of the material that is in place (2.5 to 4.0 per inch, on average). Roughly 12 to 20 inches (depending on the material used) will provide an R-50 rating. Although it generally won’t hurt to add more, the return on the investment decreases as the R-value increases above R-50. Add roof and soffit vents Roof vents allow airflow through your attic or roof space, helping balance temperatures and preventing moisture build-up. In the hot summer months, they enable hot air to escape, reducing the strain on your air conditioning system, while in the colder months, they prevent ice dams and mitigate the risk of mold and mildew growth. This ventilation process ultimately protects your roof and your home’s interior.

As winter approaches in northern climates like Minnesota, preparing gardens, flowers, trees, and bushes is crucial to safeguard these plants and ensure their resilience through the harsh winter months. Several key measures can be taken to fortify these living elements against the frigid temperatures and snowfall typical of "The Frozen Tundra". (I've been watching too much NFL films and Steve Sabol). Garden and Flower Preparation Cleaning and Pruning As autumn progresses, cleaning the garden becomes essential. Remove dead annuals and trim back perennials to prevent diseases and stimulate healthy regrowth in the upcoming season. It’s also advisable to clear debris and fallen leaves to avoid mold and disease from taking root. Mulching Applying a layer of mulch over garden beds helps insulate the soil and protect the roots from extreme cold. Mulch regulates soil temperature, retains moisture, and serves as a protective blanket for delicate plants. Protecting Bulbs For bulbs such as tulips and daffodils, ensure they are well-insulated by adding extra layers of mulch or covering them with burlap to shield from freezing temperatures. Tree and Bush Care Pruning and Trimming Prune trees and bushes to maintain their health and structure. Remove dead or diseased branches and any overgrowth to reduce the risk of damage from heavy snow or ice accumulation. Winter Wrap and Support Wrap the trunks of young trees and thin-barked species to prevent sunscald or frost damage. Additionally, use tree guards to shield against gnawing from rodents and deer. Provide support for branches of bushes to prevent breakage under snow load. Hydration Before the ground freezes, water evergreens adequately to ensure they are well-hydrated throughout winter. This is particularly vital in dry periods when these plants can suffer from dehydration. Implementing these measures will fortify the garden’s ability to withstand the cold and facilitate robust growth when the frost thaws, promising a thriving and healthy garden in the spring.

Gutters and downspouts might seem like simple components of a house, often overlooked by homeowners, but their role in safeguarding a home’s foundation and basement from water damage is paramount. Water is both a necessity and a potential threat to our homes. Rainfall, if not managed properly, can infiltrate a house’s foundation and basement, causing structural damage and mold growth. This is where gutters and downspouts come into play. They collect rainwater that falls on the roof and channel it away from the house. The importance of gutters is to prevent roof runoff from cascading down exterior walls. Without gutters, rainwater would pour over the roof’s edge, saturating the soil around the foundation, and seeping into the basement. This not only leads to a damp and potentially mold-infested basement but can also compromise the foundation’s structural integrity. When rainwater infiltrates the foundation, it can cause cracks, weakening the very core of the house. Downspouts are equally vital as they direct the collected rainwater from the gutters to a safe distance from the house. A downspout serves as a conduit, channeling the water into a drainage system or a well-placed exit point, such as a splash block or underground pipe. Without downspouts, the gutters’ collection of water would be pointless. Ideally, the ground should drop one inch for every one foot that you move away from the house for the first 5-to-10 feet around your house. The role of gutters and downspouts in removing water cannot be overstated. They work in harmony to ensure that rainwater does not infiltrate the home’s foundation, which would lead to costly repairs and potential health hazards. The well-maintained gutters and downspouts protect against erosion, prevent flooding in the basement, and maintain the structural integrity of the house. Make sure to clear out your gutters and downspouts on a regular basis to ensure they work properly. Properly installed and maintained gutters and downspouts are essential components that homeowners should never underestimate.

As the vibrant colors of autumn fade and the temperature drops, homeowners should prepare their properties for the upcoming winter season. Simple maintenance tasks performed in the fall can make a significant difference in ensuring a worry-free winter. Here, I'll discuss some key steps that homeowners can take to protect their homes from the cold, snow, and ice. First and foremost, it’s essential to inspect and clean the gutters. Leaves and debris tend to accumulate in the fall, which can lead to clogs. Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow, potentially damaging the foundation and creating ice dams in freezing temperatures. Regular gutter cleaning will prevent such issues and ensure proper water drainage. Next, homeowners should check their heating systems. This includes having the furnace or heating system serviced by a professional. Regular maintenance ensures that your heating system operates efficiently and minimizes the risk of breakdowns during the coldest months. Additionally, replace air filters to maintain air quality and heating efficiency. Another critical aspect of fall maintenance is winterizing outdoor plumbing. This involves draining and disconnecting garden hoses, shutting off outdoor water valves, and insulating pipes in unheated areas. By doing so, you can avoid burst pipes and costly repairs caused by freezing. Sealing gaps and cracks around windows and doors is equally important. This prevents cold drafts from infiltrating your home, reduces energy consumption, and keeps your living spaces cozy and warm. Weatherstripping and caulk are inexpensive materials that can be used to seal gaps effectively. Finally, homeowners should inspect their roof for any damaged or missing shingles. Ensuring that the roof is in good condition prevents leaks and water damage during winter storms. By investing time and effort in these tasks, you can enjoy a comfortable and stress-free winter season while preventing costly repairs in the long run.

Once summer is over and your air conditioner is taking its off-season vacation, many people wonder if they should be covering their AC until time to use it again in the spring. The short answer – no. However, there is a better time of year to cover it and you need to make sure it is covered properly to avoid damaging the unit. SNOW DOESN’T HURT YOUR A/C Your air conditioner is built with a sturdy metal covering that is made to resist the elements, including snow, rain, and extreme heat. These units were made with the purpose to sit outside year-round. COVERS HOLD MOISTURE AND CAUSE MOLD You may think that putting an air conditioner cover on your unit will prevent moisture from invading the unit, but with humidity, condensation, and other natural elements, there is no way to prevent any moisture from entering your unit. With a cover on you will trap what moisture is in your unit and over time this will mold. This moisture can also cause rust in your air conditioner. If the parts inside the AC garner enough rust, then this will cause your air conditioner not to work properly and need replacement parts. COVERS ATTRACT CRITTERS Another reason we see homeowners using AC covers is to prevent animals from nesting in the unit. However, a cover will actually make a nice, warm retreat from the cold for mice and other small animals. They tend to find materials in the unit to build their nests. WHEN YOU SHOULD COVER YOUR AIR CONDITIONER If you have a lot of trees near your unit then during the fall you should consider covering the unit to avoid leaves, berries, twigs and other fall debris from entering the unit. If debris does happen to get into your unit, then this should be found and cleared during annual maintenance service before it becomes an issue. This is part of the reason we recommend trying to get your AC serviced before you turn it on for the very first time the following year. It is not necessary to cover your air conditioner during winter but be cognizant if you have icicles forming above it and make sure to remove these to avoid them falling into the unit. If they cannot be removed, a sturdy top cover or piece of wood may be used to prevent the icicles from damaging your unit if they fall. You can also still use mesh coverings during the winter if you’d like, but they will not help protect against potential falling ice. HOW TO PROPERLY COVER YOUR AIR CONDITIONER To cover your air conditioner, cover only the top of the unit. Some full-sized AC covers may look pretty, but they can damage the unit for some of the reasons already mentioned. BUY AN AIR CONDITIONER COVER You can make your own air conditioner cover, but it is often easier just to purchase one. You can find them on Amazon or at Home Depot for $30 or less, just remember to only purchase the top covers, not the full unit covers. As mentioned, covering the full unit can lead to rust and mold. Make sure the measurements of the cover you are purchasing fit your air conditioner before purchasing. 32” x 32” is the standard size AC cover and will fit most units. CONCLUSION Covering your air conditioner, especially with a full-length cover, leads to issues of mold, rust, and other problems. Your unit is made to withstand the snow and a cover is not needed for protection. It is recommended to only cover your AC during the fall months. Be sure to have annual maintenance on your air conditioner each spring to ensure everything is still in working order before turning it on again for the cooling season.

Homeownership is a significant milestone, but it comes with a set of responsibilities, including home maintenance. Ensuring the safety and longevity of your new home requires regular attention and care. In my manufacturing career, "running to failure" was a maintenance strategy promoted to save money by managers that didn't know better, but not one I followed nor would I recommend. Here are five essential home maintenance tips for new homeowners: 1. Inspect Your Home Regularly: Start by familiarizing yourself with your new property. Regular inspections can help identify potential issues early on. Look for signs of leaks, cracks, or damage in the foundation, walls, and roof. Inspect the plumbing and electrical systems for any abnormalities. By catching problems in their infancy, you can prevent costly repairs down the road. 2. Maintain the Exterior: The exterior of your home is its first line of defense against the elements. Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent water damage. Check for cracks in the siding and repaint as needed to protect against weathering. Trim overhanging branches and bushes to prevent damage from falling debris during storms. Regular landscaping and lawn care not only enhance your home’s curb appeal but also prevent potential pest infestations. 3. HVAC System Maintenance: Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system plays a crucial role in maintaining a comfortable and safe environment. Change air filters regularly to ensure proper airflow and indoor air quality. Schedule professional HVAC inspections and servicing at least once a year to identify and address any issues with your system, increasing its efficiency and lifespan. 4. Security and Safety: Ensure your new home is a safe haven. Install smoke detectors in key areas of your home and test them regularly. Carbon monoxide detectors are also essential. Check and replace batteries as needed. Consider investing in a home security system for added peace of mind. Additionally, secure windows and doors with strong locks to deter potential intruders. 5. Energy Efficiency Upgrades: Save money and reduce your carbon footprint by making your home more energy-efficient. Seal gaps around windows and doors to prevent drafts. Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances and install programmable thermostats to optimize heating and cooling. Consider adding insulation to improve your home’s thermal efficiency. Maintaining a new home is a responsibility that comes with the privilege of homeownership. If you have some basic DIY skills it is a great time to build upon those by initially taking on simpler / smaller projects and increasing the complexity and scope as your experience, knowledge, and confidence grow. The resources available to assist are limitless with today's technology. There are many YouTuber's that are more than happy to share their expertise. If you don't have the DIY gene, hire good qualified contractors and ask questions & watch them work. It is also a great way to learn. Follow these tips and you can protect your investment while enjoying a well-maintained home for years to come.

Purchasing a home warranty after the sale of a home can be a double-edged sword, offering both risks and rewards for homeowners. These warranties, often promoted as a safety net for unexpected repair costs, can provide peace of mind but come with caveats. One of the primary rewards of buying a home warranty after the sale is financial security. Homeowners can safeguard themselves against unexpected and potentially expensive repairs to essential appliances and systems such as HVAC, plumbing, and electrical. In the event of a breakdown, the warranty provider covers the cost of repairs or replacements, reducing the financial burden on the homeowner. This can be especially beneficial for those on a tight budget or first-time homeowners, who might not have the savings to cover large repair bills. However, the rewards of home warranties are accompanied by several risks. First and foremost is the cost. Home warranties come with upfront fees and service call fees for each claim, which can add up over time. In some cases, these fees may outweigh the actual cost of repairs, making the warranty less cost-effective. Another risk is the fine print in warranty contracts. Many warranties have limitations, exclusions, and specific conditions that can be used to deny coverage. Homeowners might find themselves frustrated when they realize that certain components or issues are not covered, or that the warranty provider insists on using their preferred contractors, which may not always be the best option. Moreover, there’s a risk of potential conflicts of interest. Some warranty companies maintain partnerships with service providers, which may lead to biased decisions in favor of repair over replacement, even when replacement would be more cost-effective. Like any financial decision, it’s essential to do thorough research and consider individual circumstances before deciding whether a home warranty is the right choice.

The Minnesota Radon Licensing Act (Minnesota Statutes 144.4961) was passed by the legislature and signed into law in May 2015. This act gives Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) the authority to write rules and enforce laws related to the radon industry in the state. Professionals and companies that measure for radon, mitigate for radon or perform radon analysis in the State of Minnesota are required to be licensed and use system tags. I am now good until December 2024. Minnesota Radon Licensing Act 144.4961 https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/144.4961 Radon Measurement Professional License 4620.7200 https://www.revisor.mn.gov/rules/4620.7200/

Just finished renewing my NRPP (National Radon Proficiency Program) certification as a Radon Measurement Professional. I am now current through December 2025. If you have any questions about radon levels in. your home or would like to have the radon levels tested please call or e-mail me. Next up is the state renewal from MDH (MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH). This is a requirement of all contractors that perform this measurement.