Browse by Category

Explore our guide on insulation attic.

Explore our guide on ventilation.

Explore our guide on breakers.

Explore our guide on electrical panels.

Explore our guide on lights & fixtures.

Explore our guide on outlets & gfci.

Explore our guide on switches.

Explore our guide on wiring.

Explore our guide on exterior doors.

Explore our guide on exterior paint.

Explore our guide on roof.

Explore our guide on siding.

Explore our guide on skylights.

Explore our guide on steps and railings.

Stucco has long been favored for residential homes due to its durability, versatility, and aesthetic appeal. As an exterior finish, it offers a distinctive look that can be customized through texture and color, making it a popular choice among homeowners looking for a unique yet timeless appearance. Stucco's ability to withstand harsh weather conditions, resist fire, and provide an additional layer of insulation are among its notable benefits. However, despite its many advantages, stucco is not without its maintenance and repair challenges, which homeowners must be vigilant about to preserve its condition and appearance. One of the primary issues homeowners face with stucco is cracking. These cracks can range from hairline fissures to more significant separations, often resulting from foundational shifts, improper installation, or exposure to extreme weather conditions. If left unaddressed, these cracks can lead to water infiltration, further exacerbating the damage and potentially leading to mold growth and structural issues. Additionally, while stucco is known for its durability, its surface can accumulate dirt, mildew, and stains over time, diminishing its aesthetic appeal and requiring regular cleaning and sometimes repainting to restore its original beauty. Repainting stucco, however, involves more than just a fresh coat of paint; it requires careful preparation of the surface, including thorough cleaning and repair of any damages, to ensure the paint adheres properly and lasts. For homeowners, the maintenance of stucco can be a daunting task, necessitating a proactive approach to identify and address issues promptly. Regular inspections can help in detecting early signs of wear and tear, and consulting with professionals for repairs and painting ensures that the work is done correctly, preserving the home's exterior integrity and appearance. Understanding the specific requirements of stucco maintenance and repair is crucial for homeowners looking to keep their homes looking their best while avoiding more costly repairs down the line.

Explore our guide on vents & ventilation.

Explore our guide on windows.

Explore our guide on subfloor issues.

Explore our guide on settling & foundation movement.

A/C and Cooling

Explore our guide on chimneys.

Explore our guide on ducts - asbestos ducts / filter - plenum.

Explore our guide on fireplace.

Explore our guide on furnaces & heating systems.

Explore our guide on a/c system.

Explore our guide on ducts and ducting.

Explore our guide on furnace.

Explore our guide on air quality.

Explore our guide on alarms: smoke & co.

Explore our guide on asbestos.

Explore our guide on attic.

Explore our guide on bathrooms.

Explore our guide on doors.

Explore our guide on drywall.

Explore our guide on fans.

Explore our guide on floors.

Explore our guide on garage.

Explore our guide on insulation.

Explore our guide on interior paint.

Explore our guide on interior skylights.

Explore our guide on kitchen.

Explore our guide on stairs.

Explore our guide on temperature & humidity issues.

Explore our guide on windows.

Explore our guide on dishwasher.

Explore our guide on disposal.

Explore our guide on stoves.

Explore our guide on corrosion.

Explore our guide on gas meters & valves.

Explore our guide on general plumbing.

<div class="flex-1 overflow-hidden"> <div class="react-scroll-to-bottom--css-nyuth-79elbk h-full"> <div class="react-scroll-to-bottom--css-nyuth-1n7m0yu"> <div class="flex flex-col text-sm pb-9"> <div class="w-full text-token-text-primary" data-testid="conversation-turn-15"> <div class="px-4 py-2 justify-center text-base md:gap-6 m-auto"> <div class="flex flex-1 text-base mx-auto gap-3 md:px-5 lg:px-1 xl:px-5 md:max-w-3xl lg:max-w-[40rem] xl:max-w-[48rem] group final-completion"> <div class="relative flex w-full flex-col agent-turn"> <div class="flex-col gap-1 md:gap-3"> <div class="flex flex-grow flex-col max-w-full"> <div class="min-h-[20px] text-message flex flex-col items-start gap-3 whitespace-pre-wrap break-words [.text-message+&]:mt-5 overflow-x-auto" data-message-author-role="assistant" data-message-id="a1ac8c1b-c2b4-4902-aa28-568659103137"> <div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert dark"> Noisy water pipes in homes, often manifesting as banging, whistling, or rattling sounds, can indicate various plumbing issues. Such noises may arise from high water pressure, loose pipe mountings, or the presence of air pockets within the plumbing system. For example, a banging sound, commonly known as water hammer, occurs when water abruptly changes direction or is stopped, causing a shockwave through the pipes. Whistling sounds usually point to partially closed valves or fittings that restrict water flow, while rattling may suggest that pipes are not securely fastened to the structure. Addressing these noises often involves adjusting water pressure, securing pipes, or installing air chambers to prevent water hammer, helping to ensure a quieter and more stable plumbing system. </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div>

Explore our guide on septic tanks & leach fields.

Explore our guide on sewer.

Our articles on water heaters address a wide array of homeowner concerns, common issues, maintenance tips, and critical aspects to watch out for regarding this home appliance. Recognizing the central role water heaters play in ensuring comfort in our daily lives—providing hot water for showers, laundry, and kitchen use—we delve into topics that help homeowners understand their water heating systems better, ensuring they operate efficiently and last as long as possible. From exploring the initial signs of water heater failure, such as fluctuating water temperatures or leaks, to health and safety issues, our articles are designed to empower homeowners with knowledge and practical advice. We cover essential maintenance tasks that can extend the lifespan of water heaters, like flushing the tank to prevent sediment buildup, checking the anode rod for corrosion, and inspecting the T&P valve to ensure it's functioning correctly.

Explore our guide on flat roofs.

Explore our guide on gutters and downspouts.

Explore our guide on metal flashings, valleys and crickets.

Explore our guide on miscellaneous roof issue.

Explore our guide on rafters & trusses.

Explore our guide on tile, wood & composition shingles.

Basements serve as foundational elements in many homes, providing structural stability and a plethora of functional uses. Whether it's used as extra living space, storage, or even as a utility area, the basement plays a crucial role in the overall integrity of a home. Its position below ground level naturally insulates the space, potentially leading to energy savings during colder months by retaining warmth and during warmer periods by staying cooler. Furthermore, basements offer a unique opportunity for homeowners to maximize their living space without the need to expand their home's footprint, making it a valuable asset in terms of both utility and property value. However, the very nature of basements being partly or fully underground brings about a unique set of challenges, making them susceptible to specific issues that homeowners need to be vigilant about. Moisture problems are perhaps the most prevalent, with water seepage through floors and walls leading to dampness, mold growth, and in severe cases, structural damage. Poor ventilation exacerbates these moisture issues, creating an environment where mold and mildew can thrive, potentially affecting the air quality throughout the home. Additionally, basements are prone to foundational shifts and cracks over time, necessitating regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the structural integrity of the home remains intact. Addressing these common basement issues promptly can prevent more significant problems down the line, safeguarding the home's value and the well-being of its occupants.

Explore our guide on concrete slab.

Explore our guide on earthquake.

Explore our guide on foundation.

Explore our guide on framing.

Explore our guide on improper installation or workmanship.

Explore our guide on decks.

Explore our guide on drains and drainage.

Explore our guide on driveways.

Explore our guide on fences, block walls & gates.

Explore our guide on fountains.

Explore our guide on landscaping, trees, plants & erosion.

Explore our guide on planters.

Explore our guide on retaining walls.

Explore our guide on sprinklers.

Explore our guide on steps, stairs & railings.

Avoiding injury

Explore our guide on walks & patios.